Mc digital edition 12 9 15

Business community cooperation key to

Detroit neighborhoods’

comeback

See page C-1

AND

N E W S M A K E R

G A L A

Thursday, December 10, 2015 | 6PM | Garden Theater Thursday, December 10, 2015

KICK-OFF OF THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE’S TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION IN 2016

POWERED BY REAL TIMES MEDIA80

An Evening in Paradise

6PM

AT T H E

Garden Theater

3929 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48201

| Hors d’oeuvres | Dessert |

Individual $175

n

Couple $300

n

VIP Individual $250

n

Music | Dancing |

VIP Couple $400

n

Tickets: Table of 10 $2000

To Purchase Tickets or Sponsorship visit www.michiganchronicle.com or call (313) 963-5522

#LegacyinMotion

@MichiganChronicle

@michronicle

SPONSORED BY

michiganchronicle.com

Volume 79 – Number 13

Ron Scott funeral arrangements The funeral arrangements for longtime community activist Ron Scott will be as follows: When: Saturday, Dec. 12 Family Hour: 10 am Funeral: 11 am Where: Historic Little Rock Baptist Church 9000 Woodward Avenue Detroit

WHAT’S INSIDE A boost for Avenue of Fashion (Page A-2) Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans, with the support of the Avenue of Fashion Business Association and University Commons, has kicked off the Historic Avenue of Fashion Business District Lighting Project.

A black hockey superstar (Page B-1) P.K. Subban, who plays hockey for the Montreal Canadiens (spelling is correct), is recognized as the premier defenseman in the National Hockey League. In 2013, Subban, one of few black professional hockey players, won the coveted James Norris Memorial Trophy.

Watch out for high-cost, small dollar loans (Page C-1)

TABLE SPONSORS

MOSAIC THEATER

Impact Network becomes No. 1 black-owned faith-based network Millions tune in for inspirational programming and employment opportunities

Art saves young lives

By Roz Edward

*Photos provided by Mosaic Youth Theater. From the production Winter Wonderland.

By Keith A. Owens SENIOR EDITOR

Sometimes, when you have a treasure located in your own backyard, it’s easy to take it for granted. And in Detroit, where artistic talent has been so plentiful for so long, this can sometimes be as much of a blessing as it is a problem. This city has produced a list of world-class musicians and artists that has caused the rest of the world to gape and point in disbelief for more than a half century.

But to Detroiters, these folks were — and are — just our neighbors, or somebody we went to school with, or maybe somebody who frequented the same parties. To be considered “bad” in Detroit, you better be really, really good. Because if you aren’t, chances are somebody’s got an uncle or a cousin or a “boo” working nights somewhere that will blow you off a stage as easily as making a sandwich, and then go back to work.

“We did it because we wanted to do something that was uniquely Detroit. That uniquely spoke to this community and our traditions.

And so the entire play … it’s all stories about Detroit. One of the key ones is about going to the old Hudson’s building at Christmas time.

And this is something that none of our young performers are old enough to have experienced, so it’s all oral history,” said Rick Sperling, Mosaic founder and CEO.

Which brings us to Mosaic Youth Theater of Detroit.

“There’s a piece on the Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1990 when the Chilly Willy float escaped. There’s a piece on ice skating in Campus Martius. Of all the shows we do, this is the most family friendly for everyone. It connects with what’s unique and what’s great about this city and this community.”

Now in its 24th season, Mosaic is kicking

See MOSAIC

THEATER page A-4

Bill Cosby’s achievements cannot be minimized (Page D-1)

Impact Network founders Bishop Wayne T. Jackson and wife ­Beverly Yvonne Jackson “Our community is faith driven.

Our history is formed and developed behind the pulpit,” explains Bishop Wayne T. Jackson, founder and CEO of Impact Network, which features urban ministry programming and spiritual lifestyle entertainment. “Anytime we wanted to [air] broadcasts, we always had to go to other people to get our ministries shown to television audiences.”

But Jackson, with the assistance of broadcast programming veteran Terry Arnold, former president and CEO of Bell Broadcasting Company (WCHB and WJZZ), has struck an unprecedented alliance with AT&T’s DIRECTV and on Nov. 30 launched the Impact Network on the multi-channel platform.

Planned programming includes religious shows hosted by Bishop Wayne T. Jackson and Bishop T.D. Jakes. Also returning to the small screen will be Bobby Jones, who recently ended his 35-year gospel show run with BET. Jackson admits that while the Impact Networks partnership with DIRECTV is a monumental achievement, it is not the first partnership of its kind for the fledgling network. “In 2011, we were able to

See NETWORK page A-4

Michigan Chronicle to honor black owned McDonald’s franchise Eagles and the Detroit Lions, Thrower served as a loan executive and executive liaison to the board chairman of the NAACP in New York City. From there, he became director of community affairs at Stroh’s Brewery and eventually regional manager of Public Issues and Planning at Michigan Consolidated Gas Company.

MICHIGAN CHRONICLE STAFF REPORTS

The Michigan Chronicle recently announced that Jamjomar, Inc. will receive the Company of the Year award at this year’s Legacy In Motion Newsmaker’s Gala on Dec. 10, 6 pm at the Garden Theater in Detroit.

Since opening Jamjomar, Inc. over 26 years ago, owner, James Thrower has left an indelible mark on the Detroit-area McDonald’s business community and across the country. Thrower’s entire life has been dedicated to serving the community.

$1.00

Before 2010 there was not African American Christian television network in the country. But if you look at the black community which is historically faith driven, the faithful were left to find religious programming through laborious channel surfing and hit or miss programming. Worse still black preachers were at the mercy of mainstream networks who were prone to pull the plug on their Sunday morning shows for reasons as simple as personal disagreements and as complex as racial and religious oppression.

off the holidays this weekend at the Detroit Institute of Arts with its eighth production of “WOODWARD Wonderland: A Detroit Holiday Celebration,” a family friendly event featuring the talents of some of Detroit’s most gifted young people that you probably have never heard of — yet.

The joyous holiday season can turn into a nightmare if the wrong decisions are made regarding high-cost small dollar loans. They often lead to consumers paying more in interest and fees than for the money borrowed, notes Charlene Crowell, NNPA columnist.

Despite the widely publicized revelations that have tarnished his reputation and hurt his career, Bill Cosby — comedian, actor, author, product pitchman and more — remains one of the most accomplished African Americans in show business history.

December 9-15, 2015

“The Michigan Chronicle is honored to recognize James Thrower and Jamjomar, Inc., for their outstanding commitment to serving the Detroit community.

He and his family have selflessly

James Thrower served this community for several years. He is most deserving of this honor,” said Hiram E. Jackson, CEO, Real Times Media, and publisher of the Michigan Chronicle.

Following a career in professional football as a defensive back for the Philadelphia

More recently, Thrower has served as vice chairman of McDonald’s national advertising committee, as a Detroit Water Board commissioner, steward of Oak Grove AME Church and member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. He was also inducted into the Texas A&M University (Commerce, Texas) Hall of Fame for excellence in track and field.

Thrower, along with his family,

operate eight McDonald’s restaurants in metro Detroit and 16 in the state of Louisiana. Thrower’s children continue the family’s legacy of entrepreneurship and community service. His wife, Marla, sons James II and Jamar, and daughter Marissa are owner operators. Another daughter, Joni, is the company’s general counsel and will become an owner operator in 2016.

The key to success in business, Thrower says, is having “G.A.M.E,” which stands for gathering information, analyzing that information, making a decision and executing that decision in the best way possible. His formula for success in life is simple: “If you want your suc-

See JAMES

THROWER page A-4

news

December 9-15, 2015

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

REGIONAL NEWS

Weather: 7-day forecast

Page A-2

Wed.

Thu.

Fri.

Sat.

Sun.

Mon.

Tue.

47 / 39

50 / 43

51 / 43

57 / 48

54 / 44

48 / 39

49 / 38

PM Showers

Cloudy

AM Showers

Cloudy

Showers

Showers

PM Showers

Forecasts provided by The Weather Channel, www.weather.com / Illustration by Jason Flowers

Macomb Scouts help diminish hunger in Macomb County Boy Scouts in Macomb County have collected food to benefit needy families for many years by participating in the Scouting for Food program. Scouting for Food is the scouts’ community service project that addresses the problem of hunger in their own communities.

This year Boy Scout Troop 96, along with some local Girl Scouts, participated in the project and the groups collected over 39,000 pounds of food. Weingartz, the outdoor equipment retailer, provided a sorting site in Utica.

The program is intended to assist local food pantries like the Macomb Food Program in stocking their inventories. Scouts distribute fliers to residential homes on a Saturday and then come back a week later to pick up food.

On Nov. 14, the Scouts donated their non-perishable food collections to the Macomb Food Program.

The program then distributed the food to pantries and hunger mission organizations throughout Macomb County.

Macomb Food Program is a part of Macomb County Community Services Agency and is dedicated to helping people and changing lives. MCCSA offers many programs to Macomb County residents, including emergency assistance, Head Start, senior services and weatherization.

For more information, visit mccsa.macombgov.org.

Oakland County executive sends letter to state representatives regarding auto no-fault Out of the story made famous by Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey, history has coined a phrase — a warning if you will “Beware of Greeks bearing gifts.”

Well, we have another Trojan horse in our midst, and one must proclaim: “Beware of insurance companies bearing gifts.” Insurance companies are the driving force behind Senate Bill 248 which would gut the very popular auto no-fault insurance we enjoy here in Michigan.

Why are the insurance companies hell bent on giving us a “gift” of Senate Bill 248? There is absolutely nothing wrong with the auto no-fault insurance we have today. In fact, there is plenty to brag about.

How many of us sat around the Thanksgiving Day dinner table discussing auto insurance or the alleged defects of auto no-fault? Au contraire. I’m sure there was plenty of discussion about the Detroit Lions, plans for shopping on Black Friday, and the religious significance of a day set aside to give thanks.

So, what is the genesis of Senate Bill 248? With all due respect, it’s corporate greed. Over the years that auto no-fault has been in existence in Michigan, motorists have paid a very modest premium on their auto insurance policy to pay the costs for those who are catastrophically injured.

If you stop to think about it, the fund is a benefit to the insurance companies as well because the fund pays the multi-million dollar cost of catastrophic care, not the insurance companies.

Corporate greed:

The catastrophic claims fund is now hovering at about $20 billion. The fund is safely beyond the reach of the insurance companies and beyond the reach of the Legislature as well. It blinks out there as a challenge to the insurance companies: “Come and get me if you can.”

That’s what this is all about, folks, insurance companies who didn’t pay a dime into that fund, but now want to claim it as their own. Today’s auto no-fault is unique to Michigan. It provides the best auto insurance in the nation, but it’s not significantly priced higher than insurance in other states. We place 16th out of 50 states in the cost of our auto insurance, but only five percent more than the national average. (Source: 2010 National Association of Insurance Commissioners.)

The benefit for that premium on our insurance policy for catastrophic care means that a person injured in an accident in Michigan where the other driver has no insurance can collect a lifetime of benefits for medical costs. Today medical costs, as you know, are not cheap, especially in the case of catastrophic care. It can be millions of dollars in the first year

alone. But again, keep in mind that the insurance company does not pay that amount, the catastrophic claim fund pays it, and the fund belongs to you and me.

If House Bill 248 were to pass in the House and thereby create “MC3,” what happens to the present $20 billion fund that has been built up over the years? Good question. The $20 billion would be instantly pounced upon by the insurance industry and divvied up among them.

Now you can understand why the insurance industry is clandestinely and enthusiastically supporting HB 248.

Note: We recommend the Legislature should make the MCCA foiable and pass bills to either reduce the annual assessment to $50 or reduce the PIP liability cap for insurance companies to $250,000 and study the growth and management of the fund for five years.

So to you Legislators who understand the potential damage of HB 248, we thank you for your courage and your stalwart commitment to fight off these perennial attacks. You are indeed our first line of defense.

96

th

Oakland County’s Cloud collaboration nets national award Oakland County, Mich. captured Workforce magazine’s gold 2015 Optimas Award for Innovation for making leading-edge human resources software available in the cloud to other governments, County Executive L. Brooks Patterson announced. The Optimas Awards recognize human resources and workforce management initiatives that achieve business results for an organization.

Oakland County created G2G Marketplace to bring innovative technologies to small and midsize governments by simplifying the purchasing and licensing process so government agencies are able to access technologies and services more quickly. Oakland County qualified for the Optimas Awards because it offers Kronos Workforce Ready® to local governments through G2G Marketplace.

1919-2015

Kronos Workforce Ready is a cloud-based workforce management solution that automates time and attendance records, HR records, payroll, and more. It cuts down on the amount of time that goes into collecting and analyzing employee data.

“Becoming more efficient in a labor-intensive area of government such as human resources is a win-win for everyone,” said Phil Bertolini, deputy Oakland County executive and CIO. “Kronos has enabled Oakland County and other governments to spend more time making effective, well-informed personnel decisions and less time gathering and analyzing employee data.”

For more information about G2G Marketplace, go to G2GMarket.com.

HOW TO CONTACT US: THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE 479 LEDYARD • DETROIT MI 48201 (313) 963-5522 • FAX (313) 963-8788

OFFICE HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

For general, local................. Ext. 232 Entertainment news............ Ext. 241 Community

(religion, weddings, etc)................... Ext. 247

Subscriptions....................... Ext. 243 –DEADLINE –

Classified: 3 p.m Friday.

Copy, corrections and cancellations, preceding the Wed­nesday publication.

Come to the P.I.E. ACADEMIC MANAGEMENT, L.L.C. Come K-12 EDUCATION CAREER Come to to thethe FAIR P.I.E. ACADEMIC MANAGEMENT, L.L.C. Tuesday, December 29, 2015 P.I.E. ACADEMIC MANAGEMENT, K-12 EDUCATION CAREER FAIR L.L.C. December 29, 2015 K-12Tuesday, EDUCATION CAREER FAIR 10:00 am – 4:00 pm 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Display: 12 p.m. Friday preceding the Wednesday pub­lication.

For all news and calendar items: Deadline is two weeks prior to event.

Weeks that contain holidays, dead­line is Thursday prior to publication date.

THE MICHIGAN Tuesday, December 29, 2015 Horatio Williams Foundation Horatio Williams Foundation CHRONICLE 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Come to the Detroit, MI 1010 Antietam PUBLISHING P.I.E.Come ACADEMIC MANAGEMENT, L.L.C. 1010 AntietamHoratio Detroit, MI 48226 to the Foundation Williams COMPANY K-12P.I.E. EDUCATION FAIR L.L.C. ACADEMICCAREER MANAGEMENT,

48226

ATuesday, great opportunity for 29, new and 1010 Antietam Detroit, MI December 2015 K-12 EDUCATION CAREER experienced teachers to discuss FAIR 10:00 am – 4:00 pm 29, 2015 Tuesday, December 479 Ledyard Street 48226 teaching positions for all subjects Detroit, MI 48201 A great opportunity for10:00 new amand – 4:00 pm

Publication No.: USPS 344-820

Phone: (313) 963-5522

Horatio Foundation with P.I.E.Williams Academic Management,

Horatio Williams A great for Foundation newMI and 1010 Antietam Detroit, experienced teachers toopportunity discuss L.L.C. representatives.

OFFICE HOURS: 1010 Antietam Detroit, MI Mon.-Fri. 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

48226 Please bring copies to of discuss resumes. experienced teachers Closed Sat. and Sun. 48226 teaching positions forA great all subjects opportunity for new and more information please contact teachingForApositions for all subjects great opportunity for new and Marquita J. Tharpe at experienced teachers to to discuss with P.I.E. Academic Management, experienced teachers ordiscuss 313-967-7871. withmtharpe@piemanagement.com P.I.E. Academic Management, teaching positions for all subjects teaching positions for all subjects MEMBER OF AUDITrepresentatives.

BUREAU L.L.C. with P.I.E. Academic Management, L.L.C. representatives. with P.I.E. Academic Management, OF CIRCULATION representatives.

L.L.C. representatives.

Please bring copies ofL.L.C. resumes.

Please bring copies ofofresumes.

POSTMASTER: Please copies of resumes.

Please bringbring copies resumes.

The Michigan Chronicle is published every Wednesday. Periodical Postage, paid at Detroit, MI. Price $1.00 and other post office.

Send address changes to:

P.I.E. Management, ForAcademic more information pleaseL.L.C. contact• 719 Griswold Street, Ste. 820 • Detroit, MI 48226

For more information pleasecontact contact more information please For more informationForplease contact Marquita J. Tharpe at Marquita J. Tharpe at mtharpe@piemanagement.com or 313-967-7871.

Marquita J. Tharpe at mtharpe@piemanagement.com or 313-967-7871.

Marquita J. Tharpe at mtharpe@piemanagement.com or 313-967-7871. mtharpe@piemanagement.com or 313-967-7871.

MICHIGAN CHRONICLE 479 LEDYARD DETROIT, MI 48201

P.I.E. Academic Management, L.L.C. • 719 Griswold Street, Ste. 820 • Detroit, MI 48226

P.I.E. Academic Management, L.L.C. • 719 Griswold Street, Ste. 820 • Detroit, MI 48226

P.I.E. Academic Management, L.L.C. • 719 Griswold Street, Ste. 820 • Detroit, MI 48226

P.I.E. Academic Management, L.L.C. • 719 Griswold Street, Ste. 820 • Detroit, MI 48226

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

December 9-15, 2015

Page A-3

Mayor’s Office introduces new youth services director The City of Detroit has announced the hiring of Ricardo Marble as its new youth services director.

Marble, 43, comes to the Mayor’s Office from Teen Hype.

The Detroit nonprofit provides thousands of youths each year with leadership development and educational enrichment through service to others. The program uses evidence-based programs focused on health, safety, education and the arts to foster personal development and solid peer and community relationships.

In his new role, Marble will help lead the continued expansion of the City’s summer youth employment program, Grow Detroit’s Young Talent, a program dedicated to providing meaningful work experiences and potential career opportunities to thousands of young Detroiters every summer. He also will expand the Goal Detroit Soccer League, which is open to all Detroit elementary schools, whether public, private or charter. The league is a partnership between the Mayor’s Office, Detroit PAL and the schools.

Marble replaces Shawn Blanchard. Under Blanchard’s leadership, GDYT employed 5,600 Detroit youths last summer. Blanchard, who was recently profiled on CNN, is leaving the Mayor’s Office to embark on a book tour following the upcoming release of his first book, “How ‘Bout That For A Crack Baby: Keys to Mentorship and Success.”

Blanchard will continue to serve as Mayor Duggan’s liaison to President Barack Obama’s My Brother’s Keeper Initiative.

“I’m proud of the groundwork that’s been laid for the growth of youth employment in the City of Detroit,” Blanchard said. “I’m excited to embark on this new journey and look forward to mentoring young people right here in Detroit and across the country.”

Mayor Mike Duggan praised Blanchard for his commitment and service to Detroit’s youth.

“What Shawn accomplished in less than two years is truly remarkable,” said Mayor Duggan. “Thanks to his leadership, more than 5,000 young people got to experience the pride of having a job and got a glimpse of what their future might look like. I wish him the best of success with his new book and his continued service to Detroit.”

Marble, who is currently participating in the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Detroit program, is to begin his new position Tuesday, Dec. 15.

“I’ve spent the past 18 years working with Detroit’s youth and I look forward to achieving the Mayor’s goal of putting 8,000 young Detroiters to work next summer,” Marble said.

Wayne County funds lighting project for Historic Avenue of Fashion Business District Lighting project comes in time for holiday shopping season Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans with the support of the Avenue of Fashion Business Association and University Commons today kicked off the Historic Avenue of Fashion Business District Lighting Project. The project calls for the installation of 160 LED lights along the front and rear of businesses, in alleys and parking lots located on Livernois between Clarita and St. Martins in northwest Detroit.

The Greater Wayne County Economic Development Corporation awarded a $106,000 grant to University Commons for the lighting project. University Commons is managing the lighting installation project.

thrive, which creates neighborhood stability.

University Commons selected two Wayne County contractors to manufacture and install the new LED lighting. Woman-owned Americas Green Line was hired to be the project’s lighting and manufacturing contractor and Detroit Power Systems will serve as the project’s union electrical contractor.

“My office is committed to economic development that makes a direct impact on Wayne County residents, businesses and visitors,” said Evans. “The new lighting will help attract customers and keep the local community thriving. The new lights will also promote a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone who visits the Historic Avenue of Fashion Business District.”

The LED lights are being strategically installed to illuminate the front of buildings and parking lots as a supplement to the 59 new street pole lights recently installed by the city of Detroit’s Public Lighting Authority. Business owners expect that the additional lighting will lead to increased foot traffic during one of the busiest shopping times of the year.

“The lights being installed on businesses and in the alleys will provide additional security, opportunity for more foot traffic, and extended open

All 160 lights are expected to be installed within 45 days and all parking lot lighting will be completed before Christmas. Once installed, lights will be maintained by business owners and contractors. hours and comfort for our community,” said Lolita Haley, Program Manager at University Commons. “Business owners and surrounding neighbors are confident the upcoming holiday season shopping experience will be enhanced and a benefit to all.”

“We extend our sincere gratitude and appreciation to Wayne County for facilitating

the installation of the lights on Livernois,” said Dolphin Michael, Jr., President of the Livernois Avenue of Fashion. “We look forward to the days ahead and the upcoming holiday season as we celebrate a safe and bustling district once again.”

This effort is part of the Evans Administration’s goal to help the businesses in Wayne County’s 43 communities

At the press conference, held at CGB Design Studio located at 19132 Livernois, County Executive Evans was joined by Avenue of Fashion Business Association president Dolphin Michael, and University Commons program manager Lolita Haley. Also in attendance were other Avenue of Fashion business owners, residents, community leaders and local officials.

‘Hail Mary’ winning TD pass has Lions fans praying for next year’s draft and season

By Donald James

cisco 49ers, and Chicago Bears, all winnable, if the Lions could have survived Green Bay, maybe, just maybe…

SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE

Before the Green Bay Packers’ stunning and deflating 27-23 win over the Detroit Lions on Dec. 3, Lions fans had hope, faith, and were praying that their team could run the table of games and finish the season 9-7. If Detroit could Commentary have posted a 9-7 record, they had a shot – a long shot at best – of reaching the playoffs. Yet, the football gods had other things in mind, when Green Bay’s quarterback Aaron Rodgers launched a 61-yard “hope and prayer pass,” called a “Hail Mary” that easily landed into the leaping arms of Packers receiver Richard Rodgers.

“All I saw was the dude catching the ball,” said cornerback Darius Slay after the game. “I don’t know what more to say. I’m just in shock mode.”

The term “Hail Mary” was coined 40 years ago by Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach, a Roman Catholic. In a December 28, 1975 game between the Cowboys and Minnesota Vikings, Stauback heaved a game-winning touchdown pass into the end zone that was hauled down by wide receiver Drew Pearson. After the game, Stauback told reporters that before the desperation pass, he closed his eyes and as he was throwing the ball into the end zone, yelled “Hail Mary!”

At this point, history lessons on the Hail Mary pass won’t help the Lions. It

Now, the best that the Lions can hope for is to finish strong at 8-8, and begin to prepare for next year’s draft and season. Once the team hires a new GM, the incoming executive, along with Martha Ford and other top brass, will ultimately decide Caldwell’s future in Detroit.

also won’t help to ask questions about why Coach Jim Caldwell didn’t have his defenders better prepared to defend the desperation throw, which he was not expecting, based on his post-game words.

“We have a couple different things that we do,” Caldwell said when asked about preparing for Green Bay’s last play.

“One is where you’re looking for more of that pass back-and-forth kind of thing because of the range.”

In other words, Caldwell didn’t think that Rodgers, perhaps the NFL best one or two quarterback, had the arm strength to throw the ball from the Packers own 39-yard line into the end zone.

Therefore, the Lions defense was not prepared for the Hail Mary.

Yet, let’s ask questions anyway: Why

was Calvin Johnson, the team’s tallest and highest leaper, not in the game in front of Richard Rodgers to defend the end zone catch? Why were six Lions in back of receiver Richard Rodgers in the end zone? Did Caldwell have one time out to use, but didn’t, where the defense could have been reset with everybody on the same page? Why didn’t Ziggy Ansah, the team’s top pass rusher, put any pressure on Rodgers, and was nowhere near the QB, or Richard Rodgers, the game-winning-receiver in the end zone?

In hindsight, the Lions should be 7-5 at this point in the season, if they could have won games they were controlling, i.e., San Diego, Seattle, and Green Bay. At 7-5, and with sub-500 teams remaining on the schedule, such as St. Louis Rams, New Orleans Saints, San Fran-

Let’s face it: Caldwell is a good coach during practice and in the locker, and the players seem to like him a lot. However, his in-game decisions, especially in critical times when the game is on the line, is highly suspect. If he returns, it’s imperative that he and the team get off to a good start. As far as the 2016 Draft, the team will probably get a top-8 pick. The offensive line has to be fixed, the defensive line could use a monster or two, and a QB must be taken to push Stafford.

However, Matthew Stafford should return and should be the No.1 quarterback. If there’s another starting quarterback next season, unless it’s a veteran with a good track record, the Lions would be waving the flag of rebuilding, which is not totally necessary. Keep Stafford, improved the offensive line through the draft, trades or free agency.

For the Lions, it will be an interesting off-season, with Martha Ford instructing and demanding her on and off the field generals to get her team better, tougher, and more aggressive, while playing smart and winning football.

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

December 9-15, 2015

Page A-4

Beyond the Rhetoric:

What happened to black business loans?

By Harry C. Alford NNPA

During the 2000 Presidential Election, President George W. Bush made a written pledge to the National Black Chamber of Commerce® (NBCC). He claimed that he would focus on the doors leading to increasing capital access for minority businesses. To our astonishment, he delivered on that pledge while Candidate Al Gore refused to make such a pledge. That pledge began eight years of positive growth in Small Business Administration (SBA) lending.

The above activity soon began to disappear for two reasons: The effects of the subprime mortgage crisis and the lethargic activity coming out of the Obama SBA. President Obama figured the quick fix would be more and more regulation. In 2010, he signed the Dodd – Frank Amendment, which piled “mountains” of paperwork and rules onto our banking institutions. The push back was major banks began refusing to underwrite small loans, inclusive of the guaranteed SBA loans. When President Bush stepped down the SBA was doing over 8 percent in loans to Black businesses. Today, under the Obama apathy and immense regulations, the

Harry C. Alford SBA is doing less than 1.8 percent in lending to Black businesses.

It got worse than this, the SBA began attacking the NBCC for letting out the news of the downward trend. They even claimed that I had no access to the percentages of loans, because no one tracks them. To my surprise, George Curry, who was editor of the National Newspaper Publishing Association took their “bait” and began believing them over the NBCC. Finally, after a White investigative reporter from the Wall Street Journal confirmed my allegations, George came around.

According to the Valley Economic Development Center, “SBA loans to African-Americans declined 47 percent between 2009 and 2013, even as overall SBA loan volume rose roughly 25 percent during the same period.”

Doesn’t this paint the picture?

Fewer black teachers, more black students

By Robert Bess

SPECIAL TO THE NNPA

The minority population has grown tremendously since the year 2000. According to the Census Bureau, the Hispanic population growth is due to U.S. births, and Asian population growth is due primarily to immigration since 2012. That alone has fueled a 5 percent population growth in the overall population of these groups nationwide, according to the Pew Research Center.

Although there are probably many by-products of this population growth, one of major concern is the effect that it has had on the educational system in nine major American cities.

In a study by the Albert Shankar Institute, it was found that although the population for minority students has increased continually and for the first time this past school year has outnumbered their white counterparts, the number of black teachers has declined.

The cities included in this study were Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Washington D.C., which represent some of the largest school districts in the US.

tion has continued to diversify, and there has been moderate attention given to the disparity that exists between white and non-white school systems. However, what has gone undetected is that minority teachers have declined despite the fact that the minority student population has grown 17 percent since 1987.

Hispanic teachers have continued to increase but not at the rate of population growth of Hispanic students. Black teachers have borne the biggest burden during the recession. It should be noted that during the same time frame between 2003 and 2011, white teacher hiring in these systems grew, and in some cases doubled, in largely minority settings.

The cities represented in the study have large school districts with large minority populations.

There have been recruiting efforts conducted over the last decade with some success, but the retention of these teachers continues to be low, which offsets the relative success of the recruiting effort. To add insult to injury, due to the lack of experience of teachers in these districts there have been funding challenges and educational outcomes have been substandard.

The student popula-

James Thrower cess to have a long reach, then your reach must pull up the next two generations. Family trees have the strongest roots.”

Jamjomar, Inc. is pleased to lead, guide and participate in several community endeavors.

These initiatives include Ronald McDonald House Charities, the NAACP, Oak Grove AME Church, the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, the Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce, and the Detroit Urban League.

The Michigan Chronicle Legacy in Motion Newsmaker’s Gala is one of metropolitan Detroit’s premier events that celebrates individuals who have made outstanding community contributions. The event is regu-

From page A-1

larly attended by movers, shakers and area newsmakers from senior level executives and political officials to community stakeholders.

This year’s theme, “Back to Paradise,” is also the theme for the Michigan Chronicle’s 80-year anniversary. Eight decades ago, in 1936, the Michigan Chronicle was founded in the area of Detroit called Paradise Valley. In 2016, 80 years later, the Chronicle will move to a new location, 1452 Randolph, in the heart of Paradise Valley. This year’s Legacy in Motion Gala will formally kick off the company’s 2016 yearlong 80th Anniversary Celebration.

For more ticket information please call the Michigan Chronicle at 313.963. 5522.

The subprime mortgage crisis devastated the net worth of Black families. That net worth was based on equity in our homes. The homes have disappeared in many of our communities and with it went the equity, which made new entrepreneurs bankable. The biggest players in the mortgage business were Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. These two government-sponsored enterprises are now “owned” by the Obama Administration as he virtually “seized” them as they approach bankruptcy.

Will they bounce back?

That is doubtful as right now the Obama Administration is trying to liquidate the two firms. We are fighting against this effort.

The above should be a hot topic during the presidential debates but so far there has been no traction. We are going to bang the “drums” much harder for it to become a major political issue. Despite the lack of financial activity, African - American firms offer a direct path to job opportunities.

Our restaurants, service providers, IT shops, construction companies, etc. are the key to our growth and financial gain. The lifeblood for these companies is upstart capital and that necessity is fading under the current Administration and it is paramount that the next Administration will address it with a vengeance.

There is one hidden blessing coming out of the Dodd – Frank Amendment.

Under current banking law, commercial banks cannot record the demographics of their lending (except SBA loans). This is called Regulation B. Our implementers of the Civil Rights Act of 1965 thought this would help prohibit discrimination. If there is discrimination in lending what better way to detect it than tracking the numbers and volume? We have been fighting for the expulsion of Regulation B for over twenty years.

Thank God it is going away by way of the Dodd – Frank Amendment. It has been taking years to happen but within the next three years, under a new Administration it is going to happen. Hopefully, our Congressional Black Caucus will focus on this opportunity and police the activity.

The National Black Chamber of Commerce is dedicating 2016 to the emergence of more capital access for our business members. The plans will start unfolding early next year. Stay tuned.

Network

Mosaic Theatre For those not familiar with Mosaic, a quick scan of the press release:

“Mosaic Youth Theatre of Detroit is an internationally-acclaimed performing arts company and national leader in creative youth development. Mosaic’s all-teen theatre and vocal music performances have toured Africa, Asia, Europe, Canada, the White House, the Kennedy Center and 25 states throughout the U.S. Mosaic has won national awards from the President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities and the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as two gold and two silver medals at the 2014 World Choir Games in Latvia. Mosaic has also represented the U.S. at the World Festival of Children’s Theatre and has ongoing partnerships with the Public Theater in New York and the Stratford Shakespeare Festival.

“The Mosaic Singers have opened for Al Green, Pete Seeger, Harry Belafonte and Maya Angelou, and performed with Josh Groban, Foreigner and Sweet Honey in the Rock.”

Which would go a long way toward explaining why Mosaic is considered one of Detroit’s many jewels. But perhaps the biggest reason, and the reason why the company was founded in the first place, is what it does for so many of the city’s young people in a city that has let them down in so many ways.

In light of recent highly-publicized events (Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, the University of Missouri) some may have noticed that it’s a bit of a challenge being a young black person in America these days. Some might say it’s not too much unlike walking around with a target painted on your back. Which is why a Mosaic is such an important thing to have in Detroit. Young people need to know their value, and it has been the mission of Mosaic for nearly a quarter century to make sure that they do.

But for Sperling, who brought this entire project to life, Mosaic wasn’t exactly what he had in mind in terms of a career at first. He had other plans, but then a few things happened. They were the kind of eye-opening things that made Sperling realize that perhaps what he had intended for his life wasn’t quite as spectacular as what something else seemed to have planned.

Sperling tells it best, and he tells it best uninterrupted.

“I was actually pursuing a career as a director and an actor. I was not thinking about working with young people. But I got a job with the Attic Theater, which used to be the main professional theater in Detroit, going into schools with actors doing outreach into the schools, and through that job I was so blown away with the immense amount of talent and enthusiasm, but also by the fact that there were not as many music programs in Detroit that there used to be.

“We estimate that 95 percent of Detroit schools have no drama programs, and I think DPS’ last statistic was that only 30 percent of schools have music programs.

“So we saw that were really these great young people and there was a real need, but then we actually did a production at the Attic Theater with young people who had actually been at our program, and other young people from around the area, and the production was so much better than any of us imagined it would be. It was just an incredible

partner with Dish Network, which gave us a much broader national audience, and then we got with Comcaste which gave us Michigan, Arkansas, Kentucky and Indiana,” explains Jackson. Impact Network would go on to strike similar deals with the Bahamas and African nations, and put faith-based programs in 950 million households worldwide, a real coup d’état for African American Christian television. The addition of DIRECTV access adds 20 million more vhouseholds to Impact Network’s viewing audience.

Minority programming represents only five percent of all broadcast programs currently airing.

“This was a wonderful development for AT&T to recognize this need for diversity in their broadcasting,” says Jackson. “I am a firm believer that lives are changed through what we see and what we hear … and we are responsible for what we bring on the air to impact individuals who are our viewers.

That’s why we call it the Impact Network,” adds the entrepreneurially spirited ecclesiastic.

Jackson readily admits that initially there was some discussion about basing the network’s headquarters in the suburbs, but almost instantly brushed aside the temptation to move to more comfortable digs and keep the network based in Detroit. “We are helping to power

From page A-1 amount of not just talent but the way it all came together. And that’s when we realized that there was a real opportunity to create a world-class youth arts organization here. I like to say there was a mix of need and opportunity.

“The other piece of the puzzle is that we saw this work was having an incredible impact on young people. Not just those that were going into the arts, but all the young people that were in our program, and we started to track our work, and over our 23- plus year history, we have had 95 percent of our young people go to college.

“The University of Michigan did a study of Mosaic for three years from 2004-2007 when they followed the kids for three years. They found that there was a significant impact of the program on professional and career development for these young people. One of the things they found out was that in the young people that they followed, more than 36 percent of the young people when they first joined Mosaic did not expect to get a college degree. And after just one year in the program, more than 97 percent expected to get a college degree, with 47 percent of those expecting to get a post graduate degree.”

“That isn’t because we do a lot of tutoring. We see it as when you can connect to that passion, to that talent that you have, it just ignites every other part of you. These young people know they have to do well in school to stay in Mosaic, and once they’ve gotten excited about it and want to do more, that’s when they start thinking about college and what they want to do with their futures. And a lot of that national and international travel really broadens people’s horizons.

“I will say that Mosaic is not going to be the answer for every young person.

It’s really for those young people that have that talent and that passion. But for those young people, it’s a window to success. And not just success in the arts. We have alumni who have become lawyers and social workers and teachers. And they’ve worked behind the scenes as designers and producers.

And even the ones who didn’t end up performing, in that University of Michigan study, they still came back to say that this experience in Mosaic prepared them for success in what they went into.

“We have had alumni that have been nominated for Tony Awards, Grammy Awards and Emmy Awards. Haven’t had a win yet, but we’ve had nominations.

“This is an opportunity for people to see tomorrow’s stars, right here in Detroit.”

General admission tickets for “WOODWARD Wonderland” (at the DIA) are $24 for adults, $18 for seniors and adult full-time students (current ID required) and $15 for youth age 5-17.

“Mosaic Front and Center” premium seats are available for an additional $10 (subject to availability).

Show dates and times:

• Thursday, Dec. 10: 10 a.m. (Student matinee performance) • Friday, Dec.11: 8 p.m.

• Saturday, Dec. 12: 8 p.m.

•Sunday, Dec. 13: 4 p.m.

For ticket information or to learn more about Mosaic Youth Theatre of Detroit, visit mosaicdetroit.org or call 313.872.6910.

From page A-1 the revitalization of Detroit. While we have Dan Gilbert, Ron Penske and Mike Illitch who are doing great things our city, there are African Americans doing great things in Detroit, and we are going to tell those stories.”

In addition to gospel programming, the Impact Network will provide educational and life skills development programming along with family-oriented health and fitness shows, financial wellbeing programming and lifestyle and entertainment fare.

“We are the fastest-growing independent Black-owned faith-based network in the country, and this platform with DIRECTV gives us the opportunity to be the foremost, innovative television network domestically and abroad with exclusive programming,” continues Jackson.

“The addition of this minority-owned network will bring diversity to the broadcasting company's programming lineup. This is an important step to providing informative and inspirational programming that benefits families and communities,” U.S. Congressman John Conyers (D-Mich) said in a statement to the Michigan Chronicle.

Local power brokers concur with Jackson’s assessment of the network’s potential impact on the broadcasting landscape.

“We are extremely proud that

Detroit is home to what is now the largest African American owned Christian television network,” said Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan. “What Bishop Jackson has done to grow the Impact Network is truly remarkable. Not only will this expansion bring the Impact Network’s message to a much larger audience, it will create new jobs in our city for Detroit residents.”

“As America’s only African American owned and operated Christian television network, the Impact Network is in a unique position to empower its community and promote opportunities for minorities in the television industry,” said U.S. Sen. Gary Peters (D-Michigan) in a written statement.

“I applaud the hard work that has contributed to the [network’s] success, as well as its role in sharing the spirit of Detroit’s faith community with individuals across the United States ad throughout the world.”

Bishop Jackson expressed that the number of new jobs to be created had not yet been finalized, but most will be on-camera and behindthe-scenes positions for local residents.

Impact Network is now broadcasting 24-hours a day, seven days a week and can be viewed on DIRECTV’s channel 380 or on channel 268 on Dish Network.

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

December 9-15, 2015

Page A-5

Black women face increased violence

By Jazelle Hunt NNPA

Black women were murdered at more than double the rate of white women in 2012 and almost all (92 percent) of these women knew their assailant, according a report “When Men Murder Women” by the Violence Policy Center.

The annual study, now in its 17th year, “examines FBI data and details the reality of homicides committed against females by single male offenders.” In homicide cases involving whites and blacks, most of the victims know their assailants.

According to the report, 11 times as many black women were killed by a man they knew than by a stranger in 2012.

More than half (56 percent) were married to or in relationships with the men who murdered them.

Tony Porter, co-founder and co-director of A Call to Men, believes that this statistic cuts to the heart of the problem.

“The vast majority of men are not violent; it’s the minority of men who are. While we as good men, well-meaning men, don’t hit, or abuse, or rape, or assault, we participate in a culture of manhood that allows the minority of men to perpetrate violence,” he said, adding that if women alone could end the violence in their communities, they would have already done so.

homicide victims been fatally shot.

“If we can engage that majority of men to take this issue on, we might be able to have a much better chance of stopping and ending or putting a big dent in it.”

Francine Jones-James of Duluth, Ga., owner of Bubbas Gun Sales, is one of the few women – and even fewer Black women – in the U.S. to hold a federal firearm license, which authorizes her to run background checks and conduct interstate transactions on customers’ behalf.

Porter’s domestic and sexual violence prevention organization tackles negative social norms and encourages more healthy and respectful definitions of manhood through training and education for men, boys and communities.

“We as a society would still allow me to stand by and watch something terrible happen to a woman.

I’m not asking that I be held accountable by law, because I did not commit a crime, but…I am asking that I be held accountable by society on some moral level. I cannot walk away from that and still be seen as one of the good guys,” he said.

“We participate in promoting less value of women. We still treat women as the property of men.

We don’t believe that women are the property of men, but we still use a lot of those tenets that were passed down from a time when women were the property of men.”

In addition to subconsciously acting on these beliefs, black men often have the added layer of socioeconomic circumstances that that breed violence. Racial oppression, chronic joblessness, and income inequality, for example, can breed the hostility and desperation that lead to

violence in Black communities.

“Where the value lessens, the violence increases. When we talk about induced self-hate, we’re talking about racial oppression. And when you concentrate poverty…when you put 6,000 financially poor people in a square four-block radius…you will have violence,” Porter said, adding that this doesn’t excuse personal responsibility, but are factors.

“So, there’s going to be a higher rate of violence, and that’s not just Black men on Black men, but Black men on Black women as well. There are many things going wrong that are creating this reality…in the Black community.”

According to Avis Jones-DeWeever, a gender, race and class researcher and former director of the National Council of Negro Women, similar conditions make gender violence more se-

Yvonne Pointer: A passionate woman with a purpose

By Trudy Tomlinson NNPA

Cleveland-based anti-violence activist, author, motivational speaker and philanthropist Yvonne Pointer took an amazing step by opening a school in Ghana, Africa, in honor of her daughter.

Gloria Pointer was beaten, raped and murdered on her way to school in Cleveland in 1984. Her killer, Hernandez Warren, was found 29 years later after DNA evidence linked him to the crime. In 2014, he was sentenced to life in prison.

“I always knew the day was coming when Gloria’s killer Yvonne Pointer would be found and prosecuted. I felt some type of relief, like ‘mission accomplished,’” said Pointer.

Since her daughter’s death, Pointer has worked tirelessly toward safer communities, in and out of Cleveland. “No human being should ever have to endure such pain,” stated Pointer. “It was important that I could do something to stop the violence. There are so many people dealing with what I went through, but not many say, ‘What can we do about it?’ They blame everyone else; the police, the president. It comes down to the fact that we have to take ownership of our recovery. For something you don’t like, you change it.”

The Gloria Pointer Memorial School opened in August 2015. In 2003, a young man in Africa found a piece of paper with the story about the rape and murder of Gloria Pointer. “How did that paper get there if not by the work of God? Africa is

had

not the cleanest place so for that young man, Anthony, to find that paper can only be the Lord’s doing.”

Twelve years later, Pointer was there to dedicate the school in her daughter’s name. The school can educate up to 50 students.

“When I went there, I just cried, because while I’m feeling sorry for my daughter, kids in Africa have far less than what our worst-off children have here in America,” said Pointer. “Of course, we started by sending food and educational supplies, and they are real big on education. They gave me the land and I told them I would build a school.

To actually walk through the door and turn the key, it’s almost like a vision that has come to pass right in front of our faces.”

Pointer has been awarded over the years for her many accomplishments.

She hopes to provoke change by showing people that one person can make a difference. “You don’t have to be rich to do something,” said Pointer. “Use the gift of life that the creator has given you to do something.

“I remember one time I was in Essence magazine. I got a call from the writer saying there was a lady trying to reach me. This lady’s son had gotten murdered, and she had made up her mind that day she could not deal with this and was going to go home and commit suicide. While at work, one of her coworkers were looking at a magazine and I came to find out it was Essence.

Her coworker said, ‘Oh you might enjoy this magazine,’ and tossed it across the desk to her. When it landed, it fell open to my article. She read it and that’s why she called Essence and she needed to speak to me. You never know where your writing will end up and how it may help someone else.”

vere for black women. For starters, living in such areas of concentrated poverty means black women have less access to services, or poor-quality versions of those services.

“It’s a huge problem, because we have particular cultural challenges that maybe are not addressed in other programs that are aimed at women in general,” she said. For example, black women, among the most religious of all Americans according to data from the Pew Research Center, may be receiving messages from the pulpit that encourage them to keep their families together, no matter the cost.

She explained, “Black women understand that black men might be at higher risk of fatal encounters with police, so they might be less likely than their white counterparts to report their abusers to the police.”

There’s also the matter of guns.

“The number of black females shot and killed by their husband or intimate acquaintance (111 victims) was more than three times as high as the total number murdered by male strangers using all weapons combined (33 victims) in single victim/single offender incidents in 2012,” the report states, adding that 57 percent of all black female

Most of Jones-James’ clients are Black men, who, like her husband, enjoy hunting and target practice.

GOOD STOCK ON THE

DIMENSION

FLOOR

Dec. 17 • 7 p.m.

“Individuals with a background of domestic violence, perpetrators, should be prohibited or restricted from purchasing a firearm,” said JonesJames, who also believes in universal background checks.

The report cites research that finds that women living with a gun in the home triple their chances of being shot and killed. It cites another study from Harvard School of Public Health that found that “hostile gun displays,” usually against women, may be even more common than gun-related homicides in the home.

Avis Jones-DeWeever advises women in violent relationships to try to create a comprehensive escape plan and secretly save the money to execute it.

“What most people don’t understand is that when women do leave, that’s the most dangerous part of the relationship. Oftentimes when you hear on the news that somebody’s boyfriend has killed them, it’s because [the victim] has just left them or is about to leave them,” said Jones-DeWeever, who also serves on the board of directors for the National Network to End Domestic Violence.

Afrofuturism Cinema Series in conjunction with the exhibiton

30 Americans:

SHORT FILM PROGRAM January 7, 2016 Detroit Film Theatre

d i a . o rg /d f t 313.833.3237

Search for the ways to manage your chronic disease.

Two Super Ways To Save For Your Child’s Education

Michigan’s Section 529 College Savings Programs • Administered by the Michigan Department of Treasury

A college degree can offer you, your child, or a loved one more choices in choosing a career, the potential for higher income over a lifetime, and a competitive edge over non-degreed candidates applying for jobs.

The sooner you start saving, the closer you can be to accomplishing your college savings goals.

START SAVING TODAY!

To learn more about Michigan’s 529 plans visit MI.GOV/MI529 © 2015 MESP - MICHIGAN EDUCATION SAVINGS PROGRAM & MET - MICHIGAN EDUCATION TRUST. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

· Total amount saved eligible for a state tax deduction

· Portable to colleges & universities nationwide

Prepaid Tuition Plan · Buy credit hours at today’s · Open a contract for as prices to attend any Michigan public college or university

· Claim up to $10,000

Tax-Free Investment- annually in deductions Based Savings Plan · Use at colleges and universities nationwide

low as $14 a month

· 9 different investment options · Start an account with as little as $25

EXERCISE LIFESTYLE FRUITS VEGETABLES WALKING BIKING DANCE

STRETCH APPLE SUPPORT CELERY BROCCOLI SALAD

You can lower your risk of chronic diseases such as asthma, heart diseases and Type 2 diabetes by exercising, eating healthier and quitting smoking. We’ll help you discover ways to prevent or manage chronic diseases. Learn how you can reduce your risk by talking to your healthcare provider or visiting michigan.gov/chronicdisease.

Page A-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • December 9-15, 2015

SECTION B

COMMUNITY Powered by Real Times Media

michiganchronicle.com

December 9-15, 2015

Meet P.K. Subban

A bona fide National Hockey League superstar

By Donald James SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE

He is considered the premier defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL). In 2013, he won the coveted James Norris Memorial Trophy, presented annually to the game’s top defenseman. He plays dominating hockey with his passing, scoring and physicality, especially in big games. He is superstar P.K. Subban, a black Canadian who plays professional hockey with the storied Montreal Canadiens.

On Thursday, December 10, Subban and the Canadiens will play the Detroit Red Wings at Joe Louis Arena. Right now, the Eastern Conference leading Canadiens are playing some of the best hockey in the NHL. “It’s always fun playing in Detroit,” said Subban via phone from Montreal. “I grew up loving the way that the Red Wings, an Original Six team, played hockey; they were always a fun team to watch.”

While Subban, 26, is having fun as one of the league’s most exciting players, he is aware that the NHL has not produced many black players in its almost 100 years of existence. As a result, some white hockey fans have displayed racial insensibility towards Subban and other players of color at times. Such was the case last May in Boston, when the Cana-

diens battled the Boston Bruins in an epic playoff series. After Subban scored the winning goal in a double-overtime game, some Boston fans took to social media to launch racially derogatory remarks at Subban. To his credit, Subban took the high road.

“What people may say on Twitter and on other social media is not a reflection, by any means, of the League or Boston Bruins,” Subban said. “If anyone said anything about the color of my skin, it’s their issue, not mine. I have met many great people and hockey fans wherever I’ve played.”

Born and raised in Toronto, Pernell Karl “P.K.” Subban was one of five children of parents who moved to Canada from the Caribbean. The parents taught their children values and to respect other people, while encouraging them to participate in sports. Subban’s two older sisters played basketball, while two younger brothers played hockey. Both brothers have been drafted by NHL teams.

Subban began playing competitive hockey in backyard rinks before he was three. Over the ensuing years, he played fierce organized hockey with such teams as the Etobicoke Bulldogs and Belleville Bulls, the latter of which was with the Ontario Hockey League.

In the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Subban

See P.K. SUBBAN page B-2

Wayne County Executive presents King football team with proclamation Team, coaches and school administrators invited to Guardian Building to be congratulated for state championship

MICHIGAN CHRONICLE STAFF REPORTS

Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans celebrated the 2015 season accomplishments of the Detroit Martin Luther King Jr. High School football team. The Crusaders finished with an undefeated 14-0 record, a city championship victory over rival Cass Tech, and Division 2 state championship thanks to a last-second “Hail Mary” touchdown pass.

After congratulating the team on a great season, Evans reminded the them that the same personality traits necessary for them to be successful on the gridiron would ultimately help them achieve success in the classroom and life after graduating from high school.

“The journey to winning a championship is a lot like life, and to succeed you will have to display dedication, determination, resilience and an unrelenting desire to succeed,” he said.

“Life is full of challenges, and just like the state championship game when you had to come from behind, success is often achieved when you remain focused on your goal rather than the obstacles that lie ahead.”

Evans congratulated and shook hands with each player, presented the team with a proclamation and took a group photo with the team, coaching staff and school administrators.

community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

December 9-15, 2015

Page B-2

Bank of America awards $1 million to nonprofits tackling poverty in Detroit

By AJ Williams The Bank of America Charitable Foundation distributed nearly $1 million in community giving to 24 nonprofits focused on ensuring individuals and families in metropolitan Detroit have access to basic needs and services.

Ribbon cutting ceremony set for North Rosedale Park Legacy Project MICHIGAN CHRONICLE STAFF

prize being $5,000.

Detroit area residents celebrated the 75th anniversary of the North Rosedale Park Community House recently, and received an early Christmas gift, with the official opening of a new 2300-square-foot addition to the facility. Organizers, donors and elected officials gathered on Friday, Dec. 4, for a ceremonial ribbon-cutting and donor recognition program at the Community House, 18445 Scarsdale in Detroit. The event was free and open to the public.

“This is a milestone and a significant accomplishment for our community and the entire city of Detroit,” said Marsha Bruhn, Steering Committee chairperson. “Thanks to more than 300 individuals and organizations who supported our effort, we can celebrate a new and improved facility and the opportunity to enhance the programming we provide to the community.”

The ribbon-cutting was part of a weekend of events to celebrate the Community House anniversary and included a mixer with music throughout the decades, along with an elaborate anniversary gala dinner and reverse raffle, with the top

The Community House addition is part of The Legacy Project of North Rosedale Park, a capital campaign to raise funds to renovate the facility and surrounding park and to enhance community programming. The addition includes a new lobby and ADA-compliant entrances and bathrooms and other improvements.

North Rosedale Park is unique in that it is the only Detroit neighborhood that owns a community house and park, and all facilities are open to the public. Construction of the addition and other improvements represent the first major renovation of the facility since the 1960s.

Many metro Detroit families still struggle to obtain basic necessities and face difficult financial decisions, such as choosing between putting foods on the table and paying for health care, or simply providing a safe home for their children.

Norris Trophy or not, I don’t believe there’s a better defenseman that can do what I can do all around. I really don’t.”

Subban loves playing for the iconic Montreal Canadiens, the world’s oldest professional hockey team who has won a record 24 Stanley Cups. It’s obvious that the Canadiens love Subban, as earlier this year the team inked him to an eight-year, $72 million contract.

Subban is now one of the NHL’s highest paid players of all time.

The recognized nonprofits play a critical role For more information about The in providing essential huLegacy Project of North Rosedale man services, including emergency shelter and Park, go to http://nrpca.org. access to food and benefits, to reach individuals at their immediate point of need and connect them From page B-1 to the programs and resources that will set them help the children of that poor black on a path to economic stacountry with food and continuing bility. their education.

“If people can’t afford “When I was told about the Hope to put food on the table, for Kidz Program in Haiti, I knew secure a stable job or find that I wanted to be a part of it,” said Subban, who traveled to Haiti in 2011. “That’s where it started for me in wanting to give back. I want my legacy to be that of an elite player in the league, but was still humbled enough to understand that there are bigger things than just the game and myself.”

Within 45 days of signing the lucrative deal, Subban donated $10 million to the Montreal Children’s Hospital through his foundation.

His financial generosity is reported to be the highest ever donated by a professional athlete in Canada.

Subban’s donation to the hospital was not his first gesture of financial kindness. When the country of Haiti was rocked by a powerful earthquake in 2010, Subban responded by donating money to

While Subban is well on his way to creating a legacy both on and off the ice, he is clearly focused on winning a Stanley Cup this season. saying, “I wanted to win a Norris Trophy; I’ve got one of those. I wanted to win an Olympic Goal Medal; I’ve won one of those. I wanted to win a Junior Championship; I’ve got one of them. I want to win a Stanley Cup for the Montreal Canadiens and the people of Montreal.”

P.K. Subban was selected in the Second Round (43rd overall pick) by the Montreal Canadiens and subsequently played with the Hamilton Bulldogs, an affiliate team of Montreal in the American Hockey League. He was selected to play in the 2010 AHL All-Star game in Portland, Oregon.

Subban got his first taste of “big league hockey” when the Canadiens called him up in the 200910 season for two regular season games, and later, for 14 playoff games. His production was impressive. The following season, Subban began the year with Montreal and has remained with the NHL club, where he’s counted on to make major contributions.

As always, Subban talks tough and confident, backed by his power brand of in-your-face hockey.

“I am a way better player than I was when I won the James Norris Memorial Trophy,” Subban said.

“My overall game has reached another level. Whether I win another

Thus far, individuals and companies have donated $826,000 to The Legacy Project. Additional funds will be used to complete handicapped accessibility, repair the roof and to create a new plaza. The Legacy Project is part of the strategic plan of the North Rosedale Park Civic Association.

Six teams of Bank of America executives made surprise visits to 13 organizations and delivered nearly $500,000 in grants in total to nonprofit organizations during Bank of America’s Detroit Day of Giving. These grants are a part of the bank’s broader philanthropic investment to improve housing, hunger and jobs in communities across the nation.

a safe place to live, they can’t begin to think about their overall financial security and future,” said Matt Elliott, Michigan market president, Bank of America. “Our philanthropic investments are one way that we’re working to connect individuals in our community to the resources they need to lead financially stable lives.”

Later in the day, the team also awarded $400,000 in grants to its high-performing Neighborhood Builders partners, who will use the funding to increase their impact in the community through program expansion or operations.

Organizations receiving grants include: Common Ground, St. Vincent de Paul Matchan Nutrition Center, Grace Centers of Hope, Macomb County Warming Center, Hope Center in Macomb, All Saints Soup Kitchen – Catholic Charities of Southeastern Michigan, South Oakland Shelter, Starfish Family Services, Alternatives for Girls, Forgotten Harvest, Ruth Ellis Center, Gleaners Community Food Bank, Detroit Police Athletic League and Ecoworks Detroit.

The 2014 and 2015 Neighborhood Builders are the Coalition on Temporary Shelter (COTS), Southwest Detroit Business Association, Greening of Detroit and Accounting Aid Society.

Your letter to Santa can help raise a million dollars for Make-A-Wish®.

For every letter to Santa dropped in the big red letterbox at any Macy’s, or sent online at macys.com/believe, we’ll donate $1 to Make-A-Wish, up to $1,000,000. #MacysBelieve

LettersToSanta_11.5x10.5.indd 1

11/5/15 6:36 PM

community community

11 DECEMBER

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Belle Isle Holiday Stroll at Belle Isle Park

Belle Isle Park Conservatory, Aquarium, and Dossin Detroit Explore the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory,Woodward Belle Isle Aquarium and Dossin Great Lakes Corridor in Midtown Museum and enjoy family-friendly holiday fun.

Donations of newest new teddy bears for the Michigan Detroit’s nighttime festival.

For two State Police “Trooper Teddy” program will be electrifying evenings, Midtown is enveloped collected at the Aquarium and Conservatory, and in a sea of light as a number of artisits new toys for the Toys for Tots program will be converge on Detroit to illuminate buildings collected at the Dossin Museum. and cityscapes using verious mediums For that moremeld information call 313.331 sci-fi technology with7760 Victorian www.belleisleconservancy.org spectacle on a grand scale.

For more information visit www. dlectricity.com or call (313) 420-6000.

WOMAN 2 WOMAN AT KICK-THE CENTER IN DETROIT 7 p.m.

KICK-The Center 41 Burroughs St. Suite 109 Detroit Woman 2 Woman is a monthly program designed to create the bridge between generations of women of color; in order to forge a solid sisterhood. Sisterhoods that we can rely on, heal with and, be vulnerable among through conversation, activities and building relationships. Cost: Free

12 DECEMBER

‘Come Hungry, Leave Happy’ holiday edition walking tours

Eastern Market 2489 Russell Street Detroit Experience, explore and enjoy Detroit’s Historic Eastern Market shed, restaurants and shops during the holiday season.

For more information call 313.393-2055 or visit www.enjoythed.com

4th Annual HALLOWE’EN IN GREENFIELD Cheers forVILLAGE Children The Greenfield Garden Theater Village 392920900 Woodward Ave.Blvd.

Oakwood Detroit Dearborn Leaders for Kids will host the 4th Annual Cheers Long, winding paths lined with the jack-ofor Children event proceeds will benefit Chillanterns; strangers lurking; withces dren’s Hospitalghastly of Michigan Foundation. who’d like to talk to you; a headless For More information call (313) 993-8814 or riding the streetsa. Sounds visithorseman www.leadersforkids.com wonderfully frightful, but family friendly to be sure.

Cost: $16

Cody High School Alumni Association For more information call (313) 9826001.

Doubletree Hotel by Hilton 5801 Southfield Fwy. Dearborn Enjoy dancing, entertainment, networking, dinner and raffles while supporting this fundraising effort for Cody High School Alumni Association 60th Year Celebration and Scholarship Black Tie Gala.

For more information call 313-316-6424

Sept.

30 - Oct. 6, 2015 Page B-3 December 9-15, 2015 Page B-3

16 DECEMBER

GROW AND EAT COMMUNITY SEED HARVESTING Senior Power Days on AND SAVING Belle Isle: Holiday and CLASS Senior Recognition

Luncheon 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.

Detroit Market Garden Belle Isle Casino 1850 Erskine Street Detroit Detroit A free holiday luncheon that celebrates seniors whoGrow are making a positive difference in their to and Eat is a program designed communities, seniors who advocate for others equip residents of Detroit, Highland Park, or volunteer in their community. and Hamtramck with the knowledge to indeFor pendently more information call (313) grow, harvest, and878-1416 prepare their www.belleisleconservancy.org own food. Admission is $5 per class, free for Greening of Detroit members or participants in the Greening’s “Build A Garden” NOW - DECEMBER 19 Program.

For more information call Trish Hubbell at the Greening of Detroit (313) 285-2255 or visit www.greeningofdetroit.com.

Campus Martius Park Detroit Returning Showcase “D” Holidays, a crowd favorite of Quicken Loans Season Winter Magic in and around Campus Martius Park, features five weekends of Detroit’s top brands, favorite restaurants and holiday beverages that reflect the best the “D” has to offer, with new Ikea sponsored Cozy Lounges.

For more information call 313.963.9363 or visit www.campusmartiuspark.org/.

For more information call (313) 7847121.

Make your flu shot make a world of difference Your immunization helps provide a lifesaving vaccine to a child in a developing country.

From July 1, 2015 to August 31, 2016, for every immunization administered, Walgreens will donate $0.18 to the United Nations Foundation, up to a maximum donation

A Real Times Media Newspaper 479 Ledyard, • Detroit, MI 48201

(313) 963-5522 e-mail:newsdesk@michronicle.com December 9-15, 2015

Page B-4

HIRAM E. JACKSON Publisher

Quote of the Week:

CATHY NEDD Associate Publisher

“The sad truth is that the Civil Rights Movement cannot be reborn until we identify the causes of black suffering, some of them self-inflicted.”

— Henry Louis Gates, Jr.

KEITH A. OWENS Senior Editor SAMUEL LOGAN Publisher 1933-2011

JOHN H. SENGSTACKE Chairman-Emeritus 1912-1997 LONGWORTH M. QUINN Publisher-Emeritus 1909-1989

What does terrorism look like?

By Julianne Malveaux NNPA COLUMNIST

I am among the tens of millions who had to be peeled away from their television set on Friday, November 13 and in the days after ISIS terrorists randomly massacred at least 130 people and wounded hundreds more in Paris. Then, there was the nearly 30 people executed at a hotel in Bamako, Mali. And there were the several threats against New York City, and the presidential and police responses to those threats.

This terrorism has caused fear and insecurity in France, Belgium and the United States.

Terrorism is defined as the use of criminal acts Julianne Malveaux to inspire human fear. ISIS engages in their criminal acts to create a sense of instability in parts of the Western world.

Days after the massacre, those who planned and participated in the carnage were found, and some were killed (or blew themselves us). Catching these few terrorists will not stop.

Some political pundits that appeared on news programs urged the United States and others to consider the “root causes” of ISIS, while others think that actions in the West are to blame (consider the Charlie Hebdo attack and those who blamed a magazine cover for the assassination of journalists). I’m not sure that this is the most appropriate or compassionate response so quickly after the terrorist attacks. Still, these are questions that must eventually be answered. What should our response be?

Is this war? Are we prepared to endure another Vietnam, committing U.S. lives to a ground war that is perhaps unwinnable?

We can expect more security and scrutiny, and appropriately so. It is also unfortunately likely, however, that some of the scrutiny will have an element of profiling (especially racial profiling) involved, since many (perhaps most) of the ISIS terrorists are young, male, and Muslim But despite Donald Trump’s jingoistic insanity, do we want to stop everyone who “looks” like a Muslim. What does a Muslim look like? What does a terrorist look like?

Just a few days before the Paris massacre, the news was dominated by black student protests around country, at the University of Missouri at Columbia, and at Ithaca College, Yale University, Smith College, Claremont McKenna College and the University of Kansas. Many of these protests were in solidarity with the Mizzou students and in solidarity with the #BlackLivesMatter movement.

There is no comparison between what happened in Paris and what has hap-

pened on many campuses, it occurs to me that the “N” word bandied about is an act of terror that is designed to make African American students feel insecure and unsafe. This is why the students who ask for “safe space” should be encouraged, not ridiculed.

Strewing cotton balls on the lawn in front of the black culture center on Mizzou Campus is an act of terror, designed to exploit feelings of insecurity. It is neither a trivial act, nor a prank, but an act of hate. It is especially hateful when the perpetrators are fairly certain that they will not be caught and that there are few consequences for their actions. In the domestic context, anonymous terrorism is especially unsettling because one rarely understands exactly who the terrorists are. Anonymous terrorism reminds me of the KKK, the criminals who only felt safe when they hid behind hoods and sheets.

Campus racism has long-term consequences for young African Americans.

Some will learn how to protest and carry the spirit of protest with them for the rest of their lives. Others, unfortunately, will learn to “go along to get along”, internalizing the lessons of intimidation.

They are the young people who dismiss racism as “no big thing.” But it was a big thing when white Tulsans burned down Black Wall Street, and no one stood in solidarity. Lynching was a terrorist act, but Congress would not pass anti-lynching legislation. Those terrorist actions took place in the early 20th century, but later, Bull Connor was a terrorist.

George Wallace was a terrorist. Comb our history and you’ll find any number of terrorists who perpetrated criminal acts against African Americans. Those who ignored those criminal acts create a climate where racial terrorism can occur.

The white thug who massacred nine people at Emanuel AME Church in South Carolina committed a heinous act of terrorism. The people of Emanuel fought back with a loving defiance. They wouldn’t stop going to church, they wouldn’t stoop to hate. Still, the slaughter of nine people had a national impact.

The people of the United States mourn with our brothers and sisters in Paris as they sort through the aftermath of death, wounding, and destruction. We stand in solidarity with them against the evil that ISIS represents. And we stand in solidarity with the domestic terrorism that pollutes the atmosphere at some of our nation’s college campuses, and in other public spaces. The University of Missouri President Timothy Wolfe who refused to address campus racism was sanctioning terrorism. I shudder about what happened in Paris, and I also shudder at those who find domestic racial terrorism acceptable. If carnage in France provokes war, what should racial terrorism in the United States provoke?

Julianne Malveaux is an author and economist based in Washington, DC.

What you should never do for an abusive boss

By Bill Fletcher, Jr. NNPA COLUMNIST

Having survived several abusive bosses, I was intrigued when my wife mentioned that there was a study on abusive bosses reported in the Washington Post.

What struck me was the hypothesis of the researchers to that effect that “…acts of compassion and empathy, assisting bad bosses by going above and beyond, helping with heavy workloads even when not asked,” would help lessen future rude or abusive Bill Fletcher, Jr. behavior.

My jaw dropped. What on earth could have led them to believe such a thing?

Their hypothesis was disproven. In fact, their study found that such behavior had no impact on improving a situation with an abusive boss. One of the architects of the study suggested that the actual finding clashed with common sense. Really? It seemed to me that their hypothesis clashed with common sense.

Abusive bosses are among the worst experiences of a worker in a workplace.

They introduce unpredictable terror.

One day everything seems fine and then the next moment one worker or the other is the subject of berating, frequently for no apparent reason. Everyone is forced to creep around the workplace in order to either avoid the boss or so as not to upset the boss.

I have had experiences with two sorts of abusive bosses. The first is the substance abuser. This is the person who is addicted to alcohol and/or drugs and their abuse is directly related to this addiction. Their abuse may be unpredict-

able or, in other cases, very predictable, e.g., knowing that in the afternoon the boss will be drinking and that is when to stay away. No matter what good you do as the worker, the substance abuser boss cares not, or quickly forgets the good work.

They may regularly target a particular worker for abuse, leading other workers to believe that they are “safe” as long as the worker who is bullied remains the target. Instead of any solidarity, the worker-victim is left on their own.

The other abusive boss I have experienced is where the boss is very insecure and wants to ensure that no one outshines them. In one work situation in which I found myself, my boss wanted to always be the smartest person in the room. To the extent to which he believed that someone else might be as smart (or smarter), they went on the warpath against that worker, doing all that they could to demean the worker with the objective of ultimately forcing them out.

The question is, what can one do? If you are a member of a labor union you can frequently file charges against such a boss for contract violations. But if you are not in a union, the behavior of a boss is much more difficult to address. In my experience the behavior can change when those to whom the boss is accountable become fed up, be they his/ her superiors or those who have elected him/her. Regardless, in such situations, you as the worker and the victim of the boss’s abuse must find allies.

The pain of facing this alone is crushing, and leads many people to question themselves and their own integrity. This is a moment when you really need the support and solidarity of your co-workers.

Bill Fletcher, Jr. is the host of “The Global African” on Telesur-English.

Why we must fight for environmental justice for people of color in 2016

By Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. NNPA COLUMNIST

The Civil Rights Movement in the United States identified a long list of issues that were broadly considered the historical and contemporary evidence of systematic racial discrimination and injustice. With the 2016 presidential election rapidly approaching, the critical importance of environmental justice for Black Americans, Latino Americans, Native Americans and for other people of color must be reasserted.

As a young statewide coordinator for the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Benjamin Chavis Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) in my home state of North Carolina from 1963 to 1968, I saw first-hand how movements for change have to first define the issues from the perspective of the oppressed in order to have a chance of overcoming longstanding systems of racial injustice.

Golden Frinks, the SCLC North Carolina State Field Secretary, once told me, “Son, you gotta use our own definitions about these massive racial inequities without getting the permission of the perpetrators.” The wisdom that I learned from my mentor Brother Frinks has helped to guide my career over the past decades.

Thus, in 1982 during a game-changing civil rights protest led by the United Church of Christ’s Commission for Racial Justice in Warren County, N.C., I remembered what Golden Frinks had taught me. A devastating racial injustice was taking place in the state and it needed to be challenged.

I was the first person to coin and define the term “environmental racism.” This was in response to a decision

by North Carolina to dump over 400 tons of cancer-causing PCB (polychlorinated biphenyls) hazardous waste into a statemade landfill in the middle of a Black

American farming community in Warren County. Over 500 of us were arrested and jailed, but we were very successful in bringing national and global attention to another serious life-threatening manifestation of racial injustice.

Environmental racism is defined as racial discrimination in the deliberate targeting of ethnic and minority communities for exposure to toxic and hazardous waste sites and facilities, coupled with the systematic exclusion of people of color in environmental policy making, enforcement, and remediation.

By 1994 President Bill Clinton had issued Executive Order 12898 on Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations “to focus federal attention on the environmental and human health effects of federal actions on minority and low-income populations with the goal of achieving environmental protection for all communities.” Subsequently, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) opened up a full-time Office of Environmental Justice.

President Barack Obama in 2014 issued a Presidential Proclamation to observe the 20th anniversary of the Clinton E.O. 12898. President Obama emphasized, “As we mark this day, we recall the activists who took on environmental challenges long before the federal government acknowledged their needs. We remember how Americans — young and old, on college campuses and in courtrooms, in our neighborhoods and through our places of worship — called on a Nation to pursue clean air, water, and land for all people.”

Today, people of color are still facing the consequential horrors of exposures to environmental pollution that have led to disproportionate public health disparities and the unprecedented increase in cancer and asthma, as well as other respiratory illnesses. There is an inextricable linkage between poverty, economic inequality and environmental injustice.

Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. is president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA).

The piercing cry of child poverty

By Marian Wright Edelman NNPA COLUMNIST

Despite years of economic recovery, children remain the poorest group in America.

Children are poor if they live in a family of four with an annual income below $24,418 –$2,035 a month, $470 a week, $67 a day.

Extreme poverty is income less than half this.

New Census Bureau data reveal that nearly one-third of the 46.7 million poor people in the United States in 2014 Marian Wright were children. Of Edelman the more than 15.5 million poor children, 70 percent were children of color who already constitute the majority of our nation’s youngest children and will be the majority of all our children by 2020.

They continue to be disproportionately poor: 37 percent of black children and 32 percent of Hispanic children are poor compared to 12 percent of white, non-Hispanic children. This is morally scandalous and economically costly. Every year we let millions of children remain poor costs our nation more than $500 billion as a result of lost productivity and extra health and crime costs stemming from child poverty.

Nearly 1 in 4 children under 5 years old is poor and almost half live in extreme poverty. More than 40 percent of black children under 5 are poor and nearly 25 percent of young black children are extremely poor. The black child poverty rate increased 10 percent between 2013 and 2014 while rates for children of other races and ethnicities declined slightly.

The black extreme child poverty rate increased 13 percent with nearly 1 in 5 Black children living in extreme poverty.

Although the Hispanic child poverty rate fell slightly, Hispanic children remain our largest number of poor children.

New state data show child poverty rates in 2014 remained at record high levels across 40 states, with only 10 states showing significant declines between 2013 and 2014. In 22 states, 40 percent or more black children were poor. In 32 states, more than 30 percent of Hispanic children were poor. And in 24 states, more than 30 percent of American Indian/Alaska Native children were poor. Only Hawaii had a black child poverty rate below 20 percent while only two states, Kentucky and West Virginia, had white, non-Hispanic child poverty rates over20 percent.

The rates are staggering, especially when we know there are steps Congress could take right now to end child poverty and save taxpayer money now and in the future. In CDF’s recent “Ending Child Poverty Now” report based on an analysis by the nonpartisan Urban Institute, we proposed nine policy changes which would immediately reduce child poverty 60 percent and Black child poverty 72 percent and lift the floor of decency for 97 percent of all poor children.

This would by ensuring parents the resources to support and nurture their children: jobs with livable wages, affordable high-quality child care, supports for working families like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit (CTC), and safety nets for basic needs like nutrition, housing assistance and child support.

Congress must make permanent improvements in pro-work tax credits (both the EITC and the CTC), increase the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, or food stamps) benefit, and expand housing subsidies and quality child care investments for children when parents work.

We can and must do more right now as children have only one childhood.

Marian Wright Edelman is president of the Children’s Defense Fund.

community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

December 9-15, 2015

Page B-5

A light of hope for those worried about lung cancer

Vote the Detroit Zoo’s ‘Wild Lights,’ the best holiday light display

By Jason Flowers

USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards has selected the Detroit Zoo as a contender in its Best Zoo Lights contest among 20 other zoos across the country, all vying for the top spot. But, that decision is now left to the public.

Admirers and supporters of the Detroit Zoo’s “Wild Lights” now have the opportunity to show the world that their hometown zoo’s spectacular holiday light display is the best of the best.

“Wild Lights” fans can vote every day — and on multiple devices — until noon on Dec. 21 on USA Today’s website.

See how the new lung cancer screening could give you a brighter future.

“Wild Lights is a breathtaking and magical experience. To have the community vote their zoo’s light display into the No. 1 spot would be a wonderful way to top off the holiday season,” said Ron Kagan, Detroit Zoological Society executive director and CEO.

If you are a current or former heavy smoker between the ages of 55 and 80, chances are

you’ve wondered if you could have lung cancer.

Now there is an easy and painless lung cancer

screening available. Early detection could save

“Wild Lights,” presented by Bank of America, features five million LED lights illuminating buildings, trees and more than 100 animal sculptures along a path through the front half of the Detroit Zoo. The event also includes the Polar Plunge snow slide, ice sculptures, carousel rides, live entertainment, arts and crafts, a lifesized gingerbread house, photos with Santa Claus (through Dec. 23) and the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. “Wild Lights” is held on select nights through Dec. 31.

your life. Talk to your healthcare provider about lung cancer screenings, and let us light the way to answers at michigan.gov/cancer.

THE MORE YOU BUY, THE MORE MACY’S MONEY YOU GET!

MACY S MONEY IT’S LIKE FREE MONEY!

USE IT ON TOP OF COUPONS & SALE PRICES! EVEN ON OUR BEST BRANDS—INCLUDING COSMETICS & FRAGRANCES!

SPEND†: $5O-74.99 $75-99.99 $1OO-149.99 $15O-199.99 $2OO & MORE

SHOP IN STORE: FRI, DEC. 11THURS, DEC. 17

OR ONLINE:

FRI, DEC. 11WED, DEC. 16

GET: $1O $15 $2O $3O $4O

USE YOUR MACY’S MONEY ONLINE OR IN STORE FRI, DEC. 18-WED, DEC. 23 †SEE BELOW FOR DETAILS.

ONE DAY SALE SAT, DEC. 12, SHOP 8AM-11PM

ALSO SHOP FRI, DEC. 11, 8AM-11PM

HOURS MAY VARY BY STORE. VISIT MACYS.COM AND CLICK ON STORES FOR LOCAL INFORMATION.

FREE SHIPPING ONLINE AT $25

VALID 12/11-12/12/2015. PLUS, FREE RETURNS. U.S. ONLY. EXCLUSIONS APPLY; SEE MACYS.COM/FREERETURNS

5O%-8O% OFF STOREWIDE DOORBUSTERS! DEALS OF THE DAY! LATE-BREAKING SPECIALS 6 HOURS ONLY! 8AM-2PM FRI & SAT

AVAILABLE ALL DAY, BOTH DAYS!

WE’VE NEGOTIATED SOME AMAZING LAST-MINUTE DEALS JUST FOR THIS EVENT. QUANTITIES ARE LIMITED, GET THEM WHILE YOU CAN!

OR, EXTRA SAVINGS FRIDAY AND SATURDAY UNTIL 2PM EXTRA DOLLARS OFF SELECT SALE & CLEARANCE APPAREL & HOME ITEMS

$

1O OFF

YOUR PURCHASE OF $25 OR MORE.

LIMIT ONE PER CUSTOMER.

VALID 12/11 ‘TIL 2PM OR 12/12/15 ‘TIL 2PM.

EXTRA DOLLARS OFF SELECT SALE & CLEARANCE APPAREL & HOME ITEMS

$

2O OFF

YOUR PURCHASE OF $5O OR MORE.

LIMIT ONE PER CUSTOMER.

VALID 12/11 ‘TIL 2PM OR 12/12/15 ‘TIL 2PM.

CANNOT BE USED ON DOORBUSTERS OR DEALS OF THE DAY Excludes: Deals of the Day, Doorbusters, Everyday Values (EDV), specials, super buys, cosmetics/fragrances, electrics/electronics, floor coverings, furniture, mattresses, rugs. Also excludes: athletic apparel, shoes & accessories; Dallas Cowboys merchandise, gift cards, Jack Spade, jewelry trunk shows, Kate Spade, Macy’s Backstage merchandise/locations, New Era, Nike on Field, previous purchases, Samsung watches, selected licensed depts., services, special orders, special purchases, The North Face, Tumi. Cannot be combined with any savings pass/coupon, extra discount or credit offer, except opening a new Macy’s account. Dollar savings are allocated as discounts off each eligible item, as shown on receipt. When you return an item, you forfeit the savings allocated to that item. This coupon has no cash value and may not be redeemed for cash, used to purchase gift cards or applied as payment or credit to your account. Purchase must be $25 or $50 or more, exclusive of tax and delivery fees.

ONE DAY SALE PRICES IN EFFECT 12/11 & 12/12/2015. MERCHANDISE WILL BE ON SALE AT THESE AND OTHER SALE PRICES NOW THROUGH 1/2/16, EXCEPT AS NOTED. ➤ †HOW MACY’S MONEY WORKS: For any single transaction* of $50 or more you make in store 12/11-12/17/15 or online 12/11-12/16/15, we’ll give you a $10 (spend $50-74.99), $15 (spend $75-99.99), $20 (spend $100-149.99), $30 (spend $150-199.99) or $40 (spend $200 or more) Macy’s Money Reward Card at the register. *EXCLUDES THE FOLLOWING PURCHASES: gift cards, macys.com, Buy Online Pick up in-Store, services & fees, sales tax, macybed, furniture phone sales, lease depts, Espot, restaurants. USE YOUR MACY’S MONEY REWARD CARD from 12/18-12/23/15. May not be: redeemed for cash, used to purchase Macy’s gift cards or applied as payment or credit to your credit card account.

If a purchase used to accumulate Macy’s Money is returned, Macy’s reserves the right to void the Macy’s Money Reward card or reduce the corresponding value. For more information, go to macys.com/macysmoney 50741_N5110047F.indd 1

12/1/15 3:14 PM

Page B-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • December 9-15, 2015

D-INSURANCE: is NOT the ANSWER

Lower benefits = more medical debt

Under D-Insurance, your family will be capped at just $25,000 in care. The costs of a serious auto accident can easily reach into the millions, and many important services are not covered by standard health insurance. Where will you make up the difference?

Detroit deserves better!

We need lawmakers to focus on the real problems: stop credit scoring, end auto insurance redlining and reduce fraud.

Tell your legislator: Vote no on D-Insurance! www.ProtectNoFault.org

SECTION C

BUSINESS Powered by Real Times Media

michiganchronicle.com

December 9-15, 2015

You gotta love flowers by Goodness Gracious

By Jasmen Jackson

Goodness Gracious Inc. is proud to announce the grand opening of their new family-run, full-serviceretail flower shop located at 7981 Kercheval St., in the West Indian Village area of Detroit. The grand opening celebration took place on December 3. Owner Kelly Jones, a second-generation florist, began Goodness Gracious Inc. in 1994. The company’s reputation for producing high-end modern floral designs for every occasion at an affordable price has garnered business from corporations, foundations, business associations and the general public.

“It is an honor and exciting moment for me and my family to take this leap of faith by opening a brick and mortar location,” said Jones. “I appreciate the support of the mayor and the city of Detroit. By supporting small business it really shows their dedication to bringing back this great city. As part of the rebirth of Detroit, small businesses like Goodness Gracious Inc. are only the beginning.”

Mayor Duggan also took part in the much-anticipated ribbon-cutting celebration.

After years of doing most of her floral preparation and production in her own garage, Jones was able to expand her rapidly growing floral enterprise to a storefront space in the Kercheval Bank Building with the support of the Banyan Foundation. The in-house production area and showroom also includes refrigeration facilities and space for client consultations and sales.

Goodness Gracious Inc. specializes in same day floral deliveries, wedding and event floral needs, corporate account needs, funeral and sympathy flowers, prom flowers, live plant arrangements, live orchid arrangements, and seasonal and holiday decorations. Their service area includes Detroit, the Grosse Pointe areas, Birmingham, Southfield, West Bloomfield, Bloomfield Hills, Ann Arbor, Royal Oak, Clinton Township, Farmington Hills and other nearby areas, along with out-of-state weddings and events.

About Kelly Anne Jones and Goodness Gracious Inc. Kelly Jones began her career in the floral industry in the 1990s.

Since then, Goodness Gracious has been the florist to the area’s tastemakers. A member of the National Association of Women Business Owners, Jones was the recipient of the 2015 Best Vendor with Community Outreach Award by Detroit Community Health Connection.

Goodness Gracious Inc. was established in 2002. They play an integral role with Workforce Development and Greening of Detroit by helping train Detroit youth and adults for green jobs in forestry, agriculture and landscaping.

For more information about Goodness Gracious Inc. contact Kelly Jones at 313.924.7223 or goodfloral@aol.com.

Gary Torgow, chairman, Talmer Bankcorp. Inc., and Hiram E. Jackson, CEO, Real Times Media, and publisher, the Michigan Chronicle.

Business community cooperation key to Detroit neighborhoods’ comeback

By Roz Edward “It is critical that the business community and the corporate community extend their development tentacles to the community. ... They can do business and do something good at the same time.”

There is no doubt that business partnerships are critical to the redevelopment of ailing communities and the expansion of growing communities. In Detroit the legacy of business-to-business partnerships to spur the revitalization of the city has typically been one focused to the revitalization of downtown Detroit, much to the dismay of many local residents. But in this time of economic renewal, many are touting (or decrying) the efforts of established companies to breathe new life into long suffering neighborhoods that have fallen victim to neglect and corporate indifference.

Fortunately, while major corporate players like Quicken Loans and Ilitch Holdings are making their marks in the revitalization and building of Detroit’s burgeoning downtown and Midtown areas, others are diligently at work on less spectacular developments to improve the quality of life in the not-so-glamorous outlying neighborhoods.

Case in point: Talmer Bank and Trust, a key supporter of economic development programs in the Detroit metropolitan region, recently partnered with the Michigan Chronicle to create the Students Wired for Achievement and Greatness Awards for disadvantaged Detroit high school seniors hoping to attend college.

The SWAG Awards goal is to provide support for students and educators, as well as lay the foundation for future community and business leaders.

“These awards were specifically created to ensure that more Detroit students that demonstrate leadership in multiple areas — other than grades — have access to higher institutions of learning

and continue their personal and academic growth,” said Hiram E. Jackson, Michigan Chronicle publisher and Real Times Media CEO. And, as is so often the case, the concept for the SWAG Awards and programs like it, was born of a simple consensus between advocates for Detroit’s communities.

“It began with a conversation between the Michigan Chronicle team and our Talmer team about how we could collaborate to do something noteworthy and sustainable for the community,” said Gary Torgow, chairman of Talmer Bankcorp. Inc. “(Hiram Jackson) and I have worked together on a number of community projects, including co-chairing the NAACP Freedom Fund Dinner and weekend Freedom Fund activities,” said Torgow. “Talmer recognizes the important role and obligations it has as a Michigan-based community bank and the critical role it can play in the cities and counties in which we operate.”

Rev. Wendell Anthony, Detroit Branch NAACP president, underscored the significance of Talmer Bank’s support for NAACP programs and in 2014 presented Torgow with the Fannie Lou Hamer Keeping the Spirit Alive award.

“Gary Torgow not only brings business acumen to development, he also brings a great sensitivity to people.

That’s what makes him and Talmer Bank so effective in their community development efforts,” Anthony said adding, “The Bible says, ‘By their fruits we shall know them.’ We can take heart that Gary Torgow has some very good fruit.”

Talmer Bank provides support to a number of community initiatives, supports a number of local activities to enhance and sustain families and businesses within the company’s service footprint.

One such effort was the initiation and sponsorship of educational endeavors that highlight financial literacy, home and business ownership, and financial management.

“A very important focus for the team

at Talmer Bank has been to assist families and individuals to purchase, renovate and finance home ownership within struggling neighborhoods and communities,” adds an enthusiastic Torgow.

“Through the encouragement of Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, Talmer undertook in cooperation with the Detroit Land Bank a program to provide interest-free and forgivable loans for home purchases and renovations within the MaryGrove College neighborhood.”

Recognizing that neighborhood revitalization is key to the successful resurgence of Detroit as a world-class city, Talmer’s commitment serves as a springboard for other lenders to follow suit, and the success of the program provided encouragement for other businesses to invest in Detroit’s neighborhoods.

“We committed significant resources to jump start a growing demand for home purchases in the wonderful (Marygrove) neighborhood,” continued Torgow. “Being a part of a growing effort to join with many dedicated civic, political, community and business partners to provide financing and assistance in the areas of housing and small business is an important part of our goals and company culture.”

Studies have shown time and time again that business and communities working in partnership results in a win for businesses and neighborhoods.

Businesses are able to exercise and fulfill corporate and social responsibility objectives, while communities and members of the community benefit from improved access to capital and resources.

“We believe making a difference in the lives of our customers and communities is a foundational principle of Talmer’s philosophy and values,” said Torgow.

“Collaboration and partnerships not only encourage good business and community relations, but it is the surest way to leverage multiple resources for the common good.”

For more information on Talmer Bank’s homeownership programs and other important community initiatives please visitwww.talmerbank.com.

Don’t let small dollar loans ruin your holidays

By Charlene Crowell NNPA

In this wonderful time of the year when family and friends gather in good cheer to celebrate the holidays, nearly everyone has a number of lists. From greeting cards to shopping for gifts, decorations and more, lists are made and reviewed to keep pace with the barrage of seasonal activities.

But if holiday lists seem bigger than budgets, turning to a high-cost, small Charlene Crowell dollar loan can turn joy and merriment into a financial quagmire. The good news is that with a timely reality check, most consumers can avoid holiday financial nightmares.

A key step is to walk or drive past the brightly-colored signs advertising highcost, small dollar loans. Both payday and car title loans can provide quick cash, but the harms caused by these loans will likely linger past the winter’s cold. Most importantly, these predatory loans often lead to consumers paying more in interest and fees than for the money borrowed.

Research by the Center for Responsible Lending (CRL) has found that pred-

atory payday loans generate $3.5 billion in fees from repeat borrowers who are unable to fully repay the original loan, usually in two weeks’ time. With average annual interest rates at 391 percent, 9 out of every 10 payday loans go to borrowers who get trapped in five or more loans per year.

Like payday loans, car title loans are often marketed as an easy way to get cash without a credit check – but with interest rates that tend to be 20-30 times higher than that of credit cards.

The average car title loan of $500 can only be secured by signing a personally-owned car as collateral. Further, the loan will only be a fraction of the marketable value of the vehicle. While the lender holds onto a car title, the borrower is faced with triple-digit interest and in the worst cases, the loss of personal transportation.

As harmful as payday and car title loans are, other seemingly harmful small dollar transactions can also cause financial havoc.

If you believe pre-paid cards will always avoid financial rip-offs, think again. Before paying cash for this convenient form of plastic, read all of the fine print that explains the terms and fees that come with its usage. Terms and options can and do vary significantly.

Many include a range of fees from activation, to learning your current balances, reloading monies and in some cases fees for inactivity. By the time all appli-

cable fees are assessed, the amount of money actually available on that prepaid card can shrink and shortchange how far it can help on purchases.

Similarly, the convenience of debit cards can easily trigger overdraft charges for consumers with slim or no checking account cushions. By keeping track of receipts and balancing checkbooks, consumers using debit cards can usually limit or avoid overdraft fees.

Failure to keep track of expenditures on the card can lead to multiple overdraft fees in a single billing cycle.

Worst of all, most consumers using their debit cards never realize the overdraft fees incurred until the next bank statement is received, weeks after the

purchases were made. Depending upon your bank or credit union, overdraft fees vary in cost as well as an acceptable number to keep accounts open. Too many overdrafts can lead to involuntary account closures.

CRL research shows that although overdraft fees vary by institution, the average $35 overdraft fee on a debit card is double the amount of the overdraft itself. To date, at least 14 banks have been sued for changing the order of debit-card purchases to maximize fees.

This holiday season, try adding a full measure of practical sense to help your dollars preserve the spirit of the season and all of its celebrations.

business

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

December 9-15, 2015

Page C-2

Prominent local pastors featured in record-breaking new video game CHRONICLE STAFF REPORTS

zens Freeway in Detroit.

Two of Detroit’s best-known pastors, Dr. Charles Adams and Dr. James Perkins, have been breaking barriers all their lives. These spiritual leaders are about to break yet another barrier when they appear as animated characters in an upcoming release of a special edition of the world’s largest Bible knowledge computer game.

Adams is the senior pastor of Hartford Memorial and past president of the Progressive National Baptist Convention (PNBC). Perkins is the pastor at Greater Christ Baptist Church and current PNBC president. The PNBC, a 2.5-million member offshoot of the National Baptist Convention, was founded during the turbulence of the Civil Rights Movement and included Dr. Martin Luther King among its earlier supporters.

On Dec. 14, Michigan-based software company Epic 4D LLC will officially launch the Progressive National Baptist Convention’s version of its popular Great Bible Race video game. The game will be publicly displayed for the first time in Michigan at a 10 a.m. news conference at Hartford Memorial Baptist Church at 18700 James Cou-

Adams and Perkins are among 16 PNBC leaders, past and present, who appear as avatars in a game that incorporates more than 18,000 questions from the Bible in its interactive gameplay.

Players get to choose an avatar from eight male and eight female PNBC leaders.

Melvin Claxton, the game’s creator and president of Epic 4D LLC, said his company is particularly proud to be part of the tech resurgence under way in De-

troit. He said the game is the first of many educational games his company plans to release in the coming years. The company is already developing major biology, geography and math games for release in 2016, and is currently developing a Detroit black history game with the Detroit Association of Women’s Clubs.

“We often hear that video games promote gratuitous violence, sex and even attention deficit issues,” said Claxton, who oversaw the team of international Biblical experts and animators who worked on the game. “At Epic 4D, we believe this medium can also be used to engage, inform, and educate both young and old.”

Claxton said he is excited that the world’s largest Bible knowledge game is made in Detroit, continuing the city’s role as a leader in manufacturing and technology. He said the company plans to release smartphone and tablet versions of the game in the first quarter of 2016.

Detroit Zoological Society named Best-Managed Nonprofit CHRONICLE STAFF REPORTS

The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) has been named the 2015 Best-Managed Nonprofit by Crain’s Detroit Business, winning the publication’s top honor for exceptional mission-driven management practices.

Consideration for the 2015 contest was given to 501(c)(3) organizations in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw and Livingston counties for how they are addressing social, political or technological trends.

The award recognizes the DZS Greenprint, a strategic plan that refines and improves daily practices and facilities at the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Zoo, develops new policies and programs, and improves green literacy and action in the community.

“It’s an honor to be named the best-managed nonprofit in Southeast Michigan and to be recognized for an initiative that is so near and dear to the staff and board,” said Ron Kagan, Detroit Zoological Society executive director and CEO. Among the key Greenprint initiatives that came to fruition in 2015 is the elimination of bottled water at Detroit Zoo concessions, keeping more than 60,000 single-used bottled water containers out of landfills annually. The DZS also announced it is building a dry biodigester (the first in Michigan and the only zoobased system of its kind) that will annually convert 400 tons of animal waste into a renewable energy source to help power the zoo’s animal hospital.

“To expand its green efforts and influence others to live and operate in more sustainable ways, the zoo has engaged its board and its staff, collaborated with other organizations and identified dedicated funding for green projects to ensure no impact to existing programs,” Crain’s reported in its Dec. 7, 2015 edition announcing the award.

Also in recognition of its environmental leadership, the DZS was honored with the 2015 Green Award by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, designating

the Detroit Zoo the greenest zoo in America.

The Detroit Zoological Society, a nonprofit organization that operates the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Zoo, is recognized as a leader in conservation, animal welfare and sustainability as well as providing sanctuary for animals in need of rescue. With an annual regional economic impact of more than $100 million, the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak is one of Michigan’s largest paid family attractions, hosting more than 1.3 million visitors annually. Its 125 acres of award-winning naturalistic habitats are home to 2,500 animals representing 270 species. The Belle Isle Nature Zoo sits on a five-acre site surrounded by undisturbed forested wetlands on Belle Isle State Park in Detroit and provides year-round educational, recreational and environmental conservation opportunities for the community.

g n i ch

The Michigan Chronicle in partnership with Talmer Bank and Trust, will kick off the new S.W.A.G. Awards in Detroit. S.W.A.G., which stands for Students Wired for Achievement and Greatness, is a scholarship program recognizing outstanding high school seniors who have demonstrated a commitment to community, integrity and service. Current students that are economically disadvantaged, live and attend school in Detroit, and are planning to attend college or a trade school are eligible to apply.

NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT NECESSARY. 2015-2016 Michigan Chronicle and Talmer Bank and Trust S.W.A.G. Awards entry period starts at 12:00 AM ET on 10/5/15 and ends at 11:59:59 PM ET on 12/31/15. Open only to 12th graders who are 16 and older who are legal residents of the City of Detroit, MI who: (a) attend a public, charter, or private Detroit high school, (b) are economically disadvantaged (as defined in Section 2b of the complete Official Rules); (c) will graduate in spring 2016; (d) have at least a 2.5 grade point average (or equivalent); and (e) are in good community standing. Visit www.michronicleonline.com/swag-awards for entry instructions, Submission requirements, prizes and complete details. Only one (1) Submission per entrant. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. Only one (1) Contest Submission per entrant. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. SPONSORS: The Michigan Chronicle and Talmer Bank and Trust.

De

id n l a

ie s

A t aF s

a o pp r

business

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

December 9-15, 2015

Page C-3

Detroit Development Fund, JPMorgan Chase and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation announce Entrepreneurs of Color funding

By Rosa Lee The Detroit Development Fund, JPMorgan Chase & Co. and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation recently announced the first four Detroit-based minority-owned small businesses receiving loans and lines of credit from the Entrepreneurs of Color Fund. Winning recipients of the $6.5 million program are Detroit-based neighborhood businesses that are owned by minority entrepreneurs or hire primarily minority employees.

The EOC Fund is intended to increase economic opportunity for disadvantaged and underserved populations in Detroit by providing minority-owned businesses with greater access to financial assistance and business resources for the expressed purpose of expanding established business, hire locally and participate in Detroit’s economic revitalization.

“From the neighborhoods to downtown, Detroit’s success is tied to the success of its residents and growth of its businesses,” said Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan.

Based in downtown Detroit, LoveLifeSwagger provides high quality, U.S.-made, street wear products to the urban fashion market. Products are manufactured in several U.S. based facilities including one on Detroit’s Eastside. Capital from the EOC Fund will be used to assist with business expansion and job creation.

House of Pure Vin was one of the four businesses receiving the inaugural round of funding.

“There is incredible opportunity for small businesses here in Detroit, and this loan program from the Detroit Development Fund, JPMorgan Chase and the Kellogg Foundation will ensure that businesses here have access to the resources they need to prosper.”

The fund, which is facilitated by DDF, a Michigan 501(c)3 Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), provides financing for Detroit-based neighborhood businesses and services with a goal of assisting businesses that lack access to traditional forms

of credit and capital.

“With the Entrepreneurs of Color Fund we are now able to provide the capital that Detroit’s small businesses need to grow and succeed,” said Ray Waters, President, DDF. “We are grateful for the generous support of JPMorgan Chase and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, which will allow DDF to increase its business support and lending programs for minority-owned businesses in Detroit neighborhoods.”

The four businesses receiving the inaugural round of funding include: • Power,

Lighting

and

Technical Services, Inc. (PLTS) – $100,000 Contractor Line of Credit and Loan – PLTS, located in Barton-McFarland on Detroit’s west side, provides electrical design and construction for commercial, industrial and residential clients.

• Priceless Preservation’s Construction Co. (PPC) – $50,000 Contractor Line of Credit – Also located on the west side of Detroit, PPC provides high quality construction work across the Motor City.

• LoveLifeSwagger $30,000 Line of Credit –

• House of Pure Vin – $145,000 Loan – House of Pure Vin is seeking to become the wine retail store destination in downtown Detroit.

Detroit business people of color currently operate approximately 32,000 small businesses, ranking Detroit as the fourth largest U.S. city for the number of minority-owned businesses..

By Rosa Lee In the interest of fulfilling a key Detroit Department of Transportation objective to increase the number of buses providing service to Detroit commuters, the City of Detroit actively sought to significantly step up bus maintenance operations and hire more qualified fleet maintenance personnel. DDOT needed more diesel mechanics to make repairs and maintain the bus fleet.

Detroit Employment and Solutions Corporation came to the aid of the on street mass transportation system and worked with DDOT to put 12 candidates

Rasul came into a DESC OneStop Service Center seeking employment, having been unemployed for seven months from a minimum wage job. She learned of DESC’s diesel mechanic training program and decided to enter the traditionally male vocation.

“Women do not like to get dirty, however, [I knew] this would be a skill that I will have forever. … And you can always

wash off dirt,” the newly hired DDOT mechanic quipped.

Rasul told DESC staff that she was looking for a career, and one that would afford her a livable wage as well as an opportunity that would always be in demand. Fortunately, although the determined young woman recognized that she was entering a male-dominated field, that she set her standards high and prove to herself as well as her classmates that she deserved to be in the field. “Women make the best mechanics because [we] are very meticulous, and pay attention to detail, she was often heard saying to some of her classmates

Funding for the Entrepreneurs of Color Fund is provided by a $3.5 million grant from the JPMorgan Chase Foundation, as part of its $100 million commitment to the city of Detroit’s economic recovery, and a $3 million program-related investment from the Kellogg Foundation.

Interested Detroit small businesses can learn more about eligibility by contacting the Detroit Development Fund at (313) 784-9547 or vholsey@detroitdevelopmentfund.com.

At Your Service PODIATRIST

“This is a partnership that we’re certain will yield formidable results for entrepreneurs of color in Detroit,” said La June Montgomery Tabron, W.K. Kellogg Foundation president and CEO. “We know intentional investment in these entrepreneurs is crucial in helping make these small businesses sustainable, in increasing jobs and in supporting

DESC and WCCC put women to work in non-traditional roles through training at Wayne County Community College. All were offered positions with DDOT, and 11 accepted. Qamara Rasul was one of the 11, and the only female.

equitable urban development and Detroit’s recovery.”

and instructors.

Rasul was part of a cohort of 12 trainees that took a 16-week course. And although she was the only female to even apply, she passed with a 3.4 GPA. She now has two certifications (Heavy Duty Truck Diesel Engine Repair and Heavy Duty Engine Repair), and is employed full-time, earning $13.30/hr. plus benefits.

“It just shows you that the earned credential is a genuine path of opportunity,” said one DESC spokesperson. “It demonstrates that with hard work and focus that a female can play a productive role in transportation and logistics.”

Dr. Jacqueline Phillips House calls are available for shut ins

Insurances: Dr. Phillips accepts Medicare, Medicaid, most HMO’s and Comm. Ins.

TIRED AND PAINFUL FEET NEED TO BE HAPPY AGAIN. Dr. Phillips treats many foot and ankle problems including: •Diabetic foot problems •Bunions •Hammertoes •Fractures of the foot & ankle •Fungus toenails •Ingrown toenails •Heel Pain • Arch Pain •Foot infections

The Samaritan Center

5575 Conner #203 Detroit, MI 43213 Telephone (313) 499-8307

There are a lot of reasons to love the holidays. And now Ford, America’s best-selling brand,1 is giving you more with low financing on cars, trucks and SUVs. Plus, big Holiday

0

Bonus Cash on select vehicles. So, hurry to your Ford Dealer, for the best gift ever!

%

APR

FOR

60

2015 Ford F-150

MONTHS2

ON 2015 F-150 & FOCUS / 2016 FUSION & ESCAPE

1,000

$

PLUS

HOLIDAY BONUS CASH2

2015 Ford Focus

ON 2015 FOCUS / 2016 FUSION & ESCAPE

2016 Ford Escape

2016 Ford Fusion

Big Savings on America’s Favorite Brand Best-selling based on 2014 CY sales data. Not all buyers qualify for Ford Credit financing. 60 months at $16.67 per month per $1,000 financed, regardless of down payment. Holiday Bonus Cash requires Ford Credit financing. Offers not available on Fusion Energi. Take new retail delivery from dealer stock by 1/4/16. See dealer for qualifications and complete details.

1

FordHoliday2015_MichiganChronicle_R01.indd 1

12/4/15 8:49 AM

Page C-4 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • December 9-15, 2015

December 9-15, 2015 •

N E W S M A K E R

AND

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • Page C-5

G A L A

KICK-OFF OF THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE’S 80TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION IN 2016

An Evening inParadise H COMMUNITY SPIRIT AWARD

DR. WILLIAM

PICKARD

VIVIAN PICKARD

The Pickard Family Fund

GREGORY JACKSON

SID E. TAYLOR

Prestige Automotive

Sid E. Taylor Foundation

O n

N

O

R

I

N

G

THE WRIGHT SIX

ROY ROBERTS

COMPANY OF THE YEAR

VINNIE JOHNSON

RON HALL, SR.

JAMES THROWER

GERARD ANDERSON

Piston Group

Bridgewater Interiors

Jamjomar dba McDonald’s

DTE Energy

NEWSMAKER OF THE YEAR AWARD n MICHIGAN WOMEN’S FOUNDATION ENOUGH SAID CAMPAIGN

KIM TRENT

DARCI MCCONNELL

PEG TALLET

JOANNA CLINE

CAROLYN CASSIN

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

KYM L. WORTHY

CONGRESSMAN JOHN CONYERS, JR. Michigan’s 13th Congressional District

Wayne County Prosecutor

Thursday, December 10, 2015 6PM

AT T H E

Garden Theater

3929 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48201

| Strolling Dinner | Dessert | Individual $175

n

Couple $300

n

Tickets: VIP Individual $250

Music

n

| Dancing |

VIP Couple $400

n

Table of 10 $2000

To Purchase Tickets or Sponsorship visit www.michiganchronicle.com or call (313) 963-5522

#LegacyinMotion

SPONSORED BY

TABLE SPONSORS

@MichiganChronicle

@michronicle

MCM_Idea to open_Mich Cronicle.pdf 1 12/4/15 4:42 PM Page C-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • December 9-15, 2015

Pedicure & Shoes 2 Go $50,000 grant winner

Launching and expanding Detroit businesses: From idea to open C

Business planning classes

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Identifying Detroit’s commercial properties Matching businesses with quality properties Architectual and design support $500,000 in grants each quarter

And more!

Information session Dec. 15, 5-8 p.m. at Tech Town.

Learn how to apply at get your questions answered.

www.motorcitymatch.com

Powered by Real Times Media

SECTION D

December 9-15, 2015

michiganchronicle.com

Reflections

By Steve Holsey

A future in politics?

Starting out as a rapper, Will Smith has firmly established himself as a multifaceted, very likable megastar. But Willard Carroll Smith Jr. is also a man who feels things deeply, including societal issues, and seldom if ever takes no for an answer.

Now Smith, as you may have heard, has said he might be interested in a run for public office.

Bill

Cosby,

before the

“As I look at the political landscape, I think there might be a future out there Will Smith for me. This is the first year that I’ve been incensed to a level that I can’t sleep,” he said. “So I’m feeling that at some point, in the near future, I will have to lend my voice to the conversation in a different way.”

setback

Smith certainly would not be the first entertainment celebrity to enter politics.

Among the others are Clint Eastwood, Sony Bono, Wyclef John, Clay Aiken, Martha Reeves and Donald Trump.

By Steve Holsey When a star is of the magnitude of someone like Bill Cosby, and one whose history goes so far back and in so many different directions, putting the whole story in one package is a daunting task.

THERE ARE several bits of Motown history that have been lost with the passage of decades. For example, did you know that Smokey Robinson once appeared in an episode of the then-weekly series “Police Story,” as a police officer, and that Marvin Gaye once had a part in a movie titled “Chrome and Hot Leather”?

Granted, recent revelations have tarnished the megastar’s image — and well they should — but now that the “scandal dust” has settled somewhat — and the key word is “somewhat” — it’s time to look at the man and his amazing career with clear lenses and an unfettered mind.

Yanking “The Cosby Show” off the air and rescinding honorary degrees is idiotic and insensitive. And this is in no way supporting any wrongdoing on his part. Famous record producer Phil Spector is in prison for life for killing his girlfriend, but his records are still on the radio.

The Supremes on “Tarzan” starring Ron Ely. In addition, in 1968 the Supremes made a highly unlikely guest appearance in an episode of the “Tarzan” TV show starring Ron Ely — as nuns! Fans and television trivia buffs remember Diana Ross, Mary Wilson and Cindy Birdsong paddling a canoe singing “Michael Row the Boat Ashore.”

IF ANYONE is hotter in the music industry than Adele, I would like to know who it is. Sales of her recently released album, “25,” are through the roof as were those of its predecessor, “21.” In fact, “25” has sent “21” soaring back into the national Top 10.

Adele

Lionel Richie

Lionel Richie has revealed, “We are going to be doing something together. That is already almost in the works.”

What sparked this development is the fact that radio stations across the nation often play Adele’s hew hit song “Hello” alongside, or even blended with, Richie’s famous “Hello.” The latter is called a “mash-up.”

THREE great ladies of song, often with a dance music slant, Cheryl Lynn, Martha Wash and Thelma Houston, recently made an exciting appearance on “The View” at the request of show co-host Whoopi Goldberg. It was her birthday wish.

Cheryl Lynn (left), Martha Wash and Thelma Houston.

All three are “of a certain age” and looked and sounded great. Although the ladies have had numerous hits, each did the song she is most noted for, a signature song.

Cheryl Lynn sang “Got to be Real,” Martha Wash sang “It’s Raining Men” and Thelma Houston, who looked especially good, sang “Don’t Leave Me This Way.”

See Reflections Page D-2

BILL COSBY would deserve a place in the hall of fame if only for the remarkable “The Cosby Show” that aired on NBC from 1984 to 1992, generating ratings that were through the roof and making history in the process.

It was refreshing — and unprecedented — to see a black upper middle class family portrayed on TV. And it should be noted that there are many such families, despite pervasive stereotypes to the contrary.

America fell in love with the Huxtables and related to their interactions and foibles. The love within the family was heartwarming. Moreover, “The Cosby Show” was a source of almost indescribable pride for African Americans.

“The Cosby Show” was one of only three television programs that were No. 1 in the hugely important Nielsen ratings for at least five consecutive seasons. The show was so popular that there were jokes that claimed “NBC,” that stands for National Broadcasting Company, was now an acronym for “Nothing But Cosby.”

BUT THERE is so much more to Bill Cosby — comedian, TV and film actor, author, product pitchman. His decades of accomplishment made him an icon, and nothing and no one can erase those accomplishments.

See BILL COSBY Page D-2

entertainment

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

December 9-15, 2015 Page D-2

MOTOR CITY ENTERTAINMENT

CALENDAR

PEABO BRYSON, Andiamo Celebrity Showroom, Feb. 14. For ticket information, call 586.268.3200 or visit andiamoshowroom.com.

WILL DOWNING, Kenny Lattimore, Maysa, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, Dec. 20. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino.com. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

FLOETRY, Fox Theatre, Feb. 14. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

FUTURE, Fox Theatre, Sunday, Dec. 13. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

KENNY G, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, Dec. 16.

Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino.com.

To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

JANET JACKSON, The Palace of Auburn Hills, Feb. 5. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations.

To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

Janet Jackson PATTI LABELLE, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, Jan. 14. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino.com. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

MARTIN LAWRENCE, Fox Theatre, Jan. 8. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

MACK AVENUE SuperBand, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, Feb. 18, featuring the Christian McBride Trio, Gary Burton, Tia Fuller and Sean Jones. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino.com. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

NE-YO, Fox Theatre, Jan. 2. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

“ONCE UPON a December Eve,” featuring Alice McAllister Tillman, Dwayne, Peter and Willie McAllister and the Once Upon a December Eve Orchestra, Garden Theatre, Dec. 19. For tickets and more information, call 734.576.2196.

PIECES OF A DREAM, Chante Moore, Andiamo Celebrity Showroom, Feb. 13. For ticket information, call 586.268.3200 or visit andiamoshowroom.com.

JILL SCOTT, New Edition, Babyface, Joe Louis Arena, Dec. 12. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

SESAME STREET Live, Fox Theatre, Jan. 20-Feb. 7. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

“SMOKEY JOE’S Café,” stage musical, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, Feb. 25-28.

Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino.com.

To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

Bill Cosby, now 78, was born in Philadelphia.

He had described himself as a class clown, but he was serious about education, and about sports, baseball and track and field in particular.

AFTER HIGH school, he began studies at Philadelphia’s Temple University, but this was preceded by a stint in the U.S. Navy. However, the desire and, in fact, the need to entertain — make people laugh — grew so strong that he decided to leave college to pursue a career in show business, not concerned about the odds.

Cosby, who was genuinely funny, landed jobs first in his Philadelphia hometown and then New York. From there the word — and the engagements — spread to Las Vegas, Chicago, Washington, D.C. and more.

Because whites related to his comedy, he felt that in his own way, without fanfare, he was contribut-

He also served as a regular guest host on “The Tonight Show” and in 1969 introduced his second TV series, “The Bill Cosby Show” in which he

Surprisingly, Prince is a big fan of Willow Smith.

The iconic Frank Sinatra, who would be 100 years old if he was still with us physically, was the best at his craft and fully deserved the recent TV special, “Sinatra 100 — and All-Star Grammy Concert.” It featured, among others, Tony Bennett, John Legend, Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks, Alicia Keys and Usher.

Sinatra sang with a number of top contemporary black vocalists on his two “Duets” albums, among them Natalie Cole, Patti LaBelle, Anita Baker, Luther Vandross, Aretha Franklin and Gladys Knight.

I hate having to accept the fact that I will have to wait months for the new seasons of my three favorite TV shows,

251 403 242 951 3-4-9-13-27-36 1419 5013 DIGITAL DAILY WWW.MICHIGANCHRONICLE.COM

lywood Walk of Fame.

At Your Finger Tips!

Lou Rawls once recorded a song titled “Time Will Take Care of Everything.”

That “everything” should include groundbreaking, history-making black megastars.

Follow Us On

facebook.com/michiganchronicle

@michronicle

Cosby also made a series of successful movies, several of them with a black slant, such as “Uptown Saturday Night,” “A Piece of the Action” and “Let’s Do It Again,” all three co-starring Sidney Poitier.

Bill Cosby stirred up controversy when he publicly took to task those in the black community who place more importance on sports, fashion, being cool and being tough than on education, illegal drugs, teenage pregnancy, offensive clothing and dancing, crude comedy, etc.

Those who sided with Cosby insisted that his comments were coming from a place of genuine concern, and even his detractors could not deny the truth in what he said.

Bill Cosby’s awards and honors include the NAACP Image Award, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Kennedy Center Honors, the People’s Choice Award, the Golden Globe Award and the Grammy Hall of Fame. He also has a star on the Hol-

Reflections “MOTOWN the Musical” opened on Broadway in March 2013 and closed in January 2015 after over 700 performances, on a regular basis taking in $1 million a week at the box office. Therefore, the lively big production will return to New York in July 2016 and run for an additional 18 weeks, but don’t be surprised if the run is extended.

668 230 578 126

KATT WILLIAMS, Joe Louis Arena, Feb. 13. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

More success came with the Saturday morning cartoon series “Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids,” based on his own childhood.

WHILE THE series ran, Cosby continued to do stand-up comedy and make comedy albums.

From 1965 to 1970, he won six Grammy Awards.

Among the albums were “I Started Out as a Child,” “Why is There Air?” and “Wonderfulness.”

726 307 415 922

WHISPERS, Family of Faith Choir, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, Feb. 11. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino.com. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

portrayed a high school physical education teacher.

Nineteen-sixty-five was a landmark year. Bill Cosby was cast alongside Robert Culp in the espionage adventure series “I Spy,” which went on to become a major success. This was the first weekly TV series to feature an African American in a starring role, and he took home three Emmy Awards.

P I CK S

AVERY SUNSHINE, Vivian Green, Andiamo Celebrity Showroom, Jan. 30. For ticket information, call 586.268.3200 or visit andiamoshowroom.com.

From page D-1

ing to the improvement of race relations.

LOTTERY

STYLISTICS, DENIECE WILLIAMS, Andiamo Celebrity Showroom, Ne-Yo Jan. 23. For ticket information, call 586.268.3200 or visit andiamoshowroom. com.

Bill Cosby It is important to separate one’s professional life from one’s personal life. If the dark side of every famous person were to come to light, we wouldn’t be able to keep up with the fallout. And there are those in the media and outside of it who have no right to throw stones.

Week’s Best

From page D-1 “Scandal,” “Dancing With the Stars” and “Empire.”

BETCHA DIDN’T KNOW…that the O’Jays are from Canton, Ohio, not Philadelphia as so many believe.

MEMORIES: “When Will I See You Again?” (the Three Degrees), “I’m Your Baby Tonight” (Whitney Houston), “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now” (McFadden & Whitehead), “A Mother for My Children” (the Whispers), “If It Isn’t Love” (New Edition), “Yes We Can Can” (the Pointer Sisters), “Mighty Love” (the Spinners). “Killing Me Softly With His Song” (Roberta Flack), “A Penny for Your Thoughts” (Tavares), “Looking for a New Love” (Jody Watley).

BLESSINGS to Gary L. Craig, Robert Brown, Mildred Scott, Luther Keith, Derek Dirckson, Roz Ryan, Claudette Robinson, Jill Day-Foley, Aaron Foley and Aretha Watkins.

WORDS OF THE WEEK, from Les Brown: “Don’t let someone else’s opinion of you become your reality.”

Let the music play!

Steve Holsey can be reached at Svh517@aol.com and PO Box 02843, Detroit, MI 48202.

UNIVERSAL PICTURES PRESENTS A LITTLE STRANGER/EVERYMAN PICTURES PRODUCTION “SISTERS” TINA FEY AMY POEHLER MAYA RUDOLPH IKE BARINHOLTZ JAMES BROLIN MUSIC WIEST BY CHRISTOPHE BECK JOHN CENA JOHN LEGUIZAMO AND DIANNE EXECUTIVE PRODUCED PRODUCERS AMY POEHLER JEFF RICHMONDBRIAN BELL BY TINA FEY p.g.a. JAY ROACH p.g.a. JOHN LYONS p.g.a.

DIRECTED WRITTEN

BY PAULA PELL BY JASON MOORE A UNIVERSAL PICTURE © 2015 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS

STARTS FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18 CHECK LOCAL LISTINGS FOR THEATERS AND SHOWTIMES

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

December 9-15, 2015

Page D-3

Esther Mae Abrams

Services for Bishop Esther Mae Abrams were held on Nov. 29 at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor Roger D. Carson, Jr. officiating. Mrs. Abrams passed away on Nov. 22, 2015.

Esther Mae Abrams was born on Nov. 3, 1927 in Edgewater, Alabama to Zab and Corinne Kirksey. She graduated from Westfield High School in 1945 and later attended Lloyd Nolan Nursing School in Fairfield, Alabama, and Marygrove College in Detroit. She had a long career as an EKG technician in the Henry Ford Health System. She also became a full-time evangelist.

Left behind to cherish the memory of Bishop Esther Mae Abrams are her children, Margaret Newman and Samuel Abrams, Jr; two sisters, Maxine Sands and Doris Stewart; three grandchildren and many other relatives and friends.

Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Jessie Alvin Williams

Services for Jessie Alvin Williams were held on Dec. 2 at Swanson Funeral Home on the city’s east side with Pastor Sherman L. Williams officiating. Mr. Williams passed away on Nov. 22, 2015.

Jessie Alvin Williams was born on March 12, 1932 in Browns, Alabama, the youngest of the seven children of John and Hester Williams.

The family moved to Detroit when Mr. Williams was very young. He was educated in the Detroit Public Schools. He worked for Mobil Oil Company until retirement in 1994.

In 1949, Mr. Williams married his high school sweetheart, Lethia, and they were blessed with three children, one of whom, Altherias Junita, preceded him in death.

Jessie Alvin Williams is survived by his daughter, Rhonda; son, Rodney; a sister, Ann Edwards; six grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and many other relatives.

Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Interment took place at Forest Lawn Cemetery.

Larry Darnell Shaw

Services for Larry Darnell Shaw were held on Dec. 11 at Liberty City Church of Christ with Rev. Dr. Mark Thompson officiating.

Mr. Shaw passed away on Dec. 3, 2015.

Larry Darnell Shaw was born on June 25, 1956 in Detroit to the union of Freddie Louise Beacham and Samuel Shaw, Jr. He was educated in the Detroit Public Schools. After high school he joined the U.S. Army, serving from 1974 through 1976. He joined Fellowship Chapel in 2002.

Cherishing the memory of Larry Darnell Shaw are his mother, Freddie Louise Sanders; siblings, Cathy Lynn Shaw, Rebecca Sanders-Davis, Yolanda Sanders-Hendricks, Michelle Sanders-Curtis and Shirley Ann Sanders-Taylor; and many other relatives and friends.

PRAISE CONNECT Are you hosting a concert or faithfriendly event?

Are you celebrating an anniversary or special occasion?

Share your news story with us!

PROMOTE IT HERE!

Send to: newsdesk@michronicle.com

Contact us at: nblack@realtimesmedia.com

Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Get your weekly home delivery of the Chronicle!

Subscribe Today!

Call (313) 963-5522 www.michiganchronicle.com

Classified PERSONAL SERVICES

ANNOUNCEMENTS

REQUEST FOR QUOTE

MRS. LINN

BORN GIFTED READER The 7th Daughter without asking you a single word. I will tell you what you want to know. Tell your present, past and future. Tell you who your friends and enemies are.

Why you’re so unlucky. If your loved one is true or false.I will advise you all problems of life, such as love, marriage, business and health, etc. Why suffer, you can be free from all troubles. I guarantee Sucess where others failed. I am superior to any other reader you have seen.

Don’t let distance keep you away from Health and Happiness. Hrs. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Daily and Sunday.

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is soliciting RFQ’s for a Palo Alto Firewall and Networking Security Consultant, Control No. 16-1948. RFQ packages will be available after Tuesday, December 1, 2015, at www.mitn.info.

RFQ’s are due Thursday, December 17, 2015 by 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

No Mail Answered 2742 Monroe St., Toledo, Ohio 1-419-248-2145 1-419-973-9058

ANNOUNCEMENTS The Wayne County Regional Education Service Agency (RESA) is requesting proposals for: MOR and SPARC Cooperative Commodity Processing Bid RFP # 15-009-256 Bid Proposals are due by 10:00 am Eastern Standard Time, Monday, February 1, 2016.

All documentation for this bid is located on the Wayne RESA web site at: http://www/resa.net/services/purchasing/rfp

The Wayne County Regional Education Service Agency (RESA) is requesting proposals for:

Peer to Peer Observation RFP # 15-010-264 Bid Proposals are due by 9:00 am Eastern Standard Time, Friday, December 18, 2015.

All documentation for this bid is located on the Wayne RESA web site at: http://www/resa.net/services/purchasing/rfp

December 9-15, 2015

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Notice from the Office of Wayne County Treasurer Raymond J. Wojtowicz

The 2016 Wayne County Tax Foreclosure Property List is in the December 2nd, 9th and 16th, 2015 Detroit Legal News.

To purchase a copy please visit their offices at 2001 West Lafayette Blvd., Detroit near the corner of West Lafayette and Rosa Parks Blvd. or visit their Oakland County office at 1409 Allen Rd, Suite B, Troy. Copies are also available at local city and township offices as well as the Wayne County Treasurer’s Office at 400 Monroe, Fifth Floor, Detroit.

For a free listing of all the properties please go to www.legalnews.com or www.waynecounty.com/treasurer.

THIS CLASSIFIED SPOT FOR SALE! Advertise your product or recruit an applicant in more than 65 other papers in Eastern Michigan for only $250/week!

STEEL BUILDINGS PIONEER POLE BUILDINGS Free Estimates Licensed and insured-2x6 Trusses-45 Year Warranty Galvalume Steel-19 Colors-Since 1976-#1 in MichiganCall Today 1-800-292-0679.

SAWMILLS from only $4,397.00MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension.

In Stock, ready to ship!

FREE Info/DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N

Its Pays to Advertise in MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Call 800-227-7636 www.cnaads.com

CITY OF DETROIT MICHAEL E. DUGGAN, MAYOR HOUSING AND REVITALIZATION DEPARTMENT NOTICE OF PROPOSED CHANGE IN THE HUD CONSOLIDATED PLAN Notice is hereby given that the City of Detroit proposes to amend its HUD Consolidated Plan as follows: • Decrease the Block Grant appropriation for 2014-15 Lift Women’s Resource Center– Public Service funding by $100,000.00 • Decrease the Block Grant appropriation for 2015-16 Operation Get Down – Public Service funding by $100,000.00 • Decrease the Block Grant appropriation for 2012-13 Detroit Windsor Dance Academy – Public Service funding by $60,000.00

HELP WANTED !

Senior!Software!Engineer!!

ThyssenKrupp!Materials!NA,!Inc.!seeks!a!

Senior!Software!Engineer!in!Southfield,!MI,! responsible!for!SAP!software!offerings,! capabilities!and!implementation!techniques,! development!of!custom!solutions!using! customized!transition!and!user!exits!to!provide! functionality!not!available!within!standard!

SAP,!among!other!duties.!Min.!Bachelor’s! degree!in!electrical,!computer,!electronic,!or! mechanical!engineering!and!six!years!of! experience.!Please!send!resumes!to:!!

ThyssenKrupp!Materials!NA,!Inc.!

Attn:!Danielle!Griffin!/JO#6372286,!

22355!West!Eleven!Mile!Road,!

Southfield,!MI!48033.! !

! !

MECHANICAL ENGINEER

Martinrea Metal Industries, Inc. seeks Mechanical Engineer (Cost Reduction Engineer) to work in Troy MI. Evaluate mechanical products & eqpt for CR using lean eng. concepts. Interpret tech. drawings, schematics & KPI metrics. Identify process imprvmnt & MCR ideas for all mfg plants by leading workshops. Research; analyze the test on feasibility of CR modification, design change on product, system, process. Test models of alternate designs & processing methods to assess feasibility. Coordinate w/design & project engineers to recommend design modification, resolve system & design malfunctions. Support plant’s CI functions to achieve system/productivity goals & imprvmnt targets. Track, monitor & analyze the progress of an idea log for each facility. Must have a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Eng. Mngt & 1year of exp. as Continuous Improvement Engineer in cost reduction projects reading tech. drawings & schematics, Design FMEA, leading cost reduction workshops, and working with lean mfg. Applicants submit resumes to: Yelena Paykina, HR Mgr. 2800 Livernois Bldg E. Ste 450 Troy MI 48083.

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Dept. of Chemistry ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY, Assistant Professor.

Oakland University Department of Chemistry invites applications for a tenure-track position in Environmental chemistry starting August 2016. Development of an externally funded research program is expected.

Teaching will be at the undergraduate and graduate (MS/PhD) level.

Qualified applicants will have a PhD and postdoctoral or equivalent experience. Upload your cover letter, CV, concise research plans, and teaching philosophy at http://jobs.oakland.edu/postings/6718. Provide names and contact information for three professional references.

Review of applications begins January 04, 2016.

Oakland University is an EOE and NSF funded ADVANCE institution, committed to increasing diversity in the STEM fields.

• Increase the Block Grant appropriation for Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries – Public Service funding by $200,000.00

Seeking

ACADEMIC ADVISER AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Arts & Science Advising Department

Provide academic counseling to current and prospective undergraduate students who are pursuing or plan to pursue an undergraduate degree program in the College of Arts and Sciences. Maintenance of student records, coordination, preparation and maintenance of transfers credit evaluations, preparation of student communication and orientation as well as group information sessions. Minimum Qualifications: Master’s Degree in Education or an equivalent combination of education and experience. One year experience in academic counseling or advising. Salary is up to the low $40’s annually. Refer to online posting for additional requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by December 18, 2015.

Must apply on line to: https://jobs.oakland.edu

Seeking

SYSTEMS ENGINEER AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Database Applications

This position supports functional units using or planning to use Ellucian DegreeWorks Suite. Will implement Degree Auditing and student solutions supporting the use of the application. Responsible for maintaining the software, security, integration of data from Ellucian Banner and implementing upgrades according to the guidelines from the Database Administrator. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Management Information Systems, or closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience. Three years’ experience in information systems and packaged solution support. Flexibility in work schedule; willingness to occasionally adjust work hours on Wednesday’s between midnight and 8:00 a.m. for the maintenance window required. Salary up to $68,373 annually, compensation commensurate with education and experience. See online positing for additional position requirements.

First consideration will be given to those who apply by December 16, 2015.

Must apply on line to: https://jobs.oakland.edu

Marathon Petroleum Company LP, has an immediate opening for a Refinery Operator Trainee in its Detroit, Michigan refinery.

Persons or organizations wishing to comment on this proposed change may transmit such comments in writing, in person, or by telephone to the Housing & Revitalization Department at the address below:

Refinery Operator Trainee

IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

New Year’s Food Resolutions to Improve Wellbeing (StatePoint) Improving one’s overall wellbeing is often top-of-mind when New Year’s resolutions are made. Positive lifestyle changes are heavily rooted in the kitchen -- start there and take simple steps to achieve better health.

Whole Foods Focus Fresh, unprocessed foods are the cornerstone of a healthful diet. Whole foods include fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts and seeds -all presented in their purest forms, free of unnecessary additives such as artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, sweeteners and hydrogenated fats.

Build a recipe for success with an ongoing grocery list that incorporates natural foods you’re excited to try, and begin to make small swaps. If it seems like an adventure, you’ll be inspired to avoid high-calorie, low-nutrient foods, and stick to those that provide energy and key disease-fighting properties.

Excellent examples of power-packed foods include bananas, dark leafy greens, black beans, avocados, strawberries, peas, quinoa, almonds, chia seeds and rolled oats. Shopping tip: these foods are typically located around the perimeter of the market.

Mealtime Magic at Home Take a few minutes each week to make meal plans.

Preparing and consuming mostly home-cooked meals will train your palate to enjoy more healthful fare.

And it’s worth the effort to know exactly what’s in each dish. Over time, you’ll learn to cook creatively with whole-food ingredients.

Heathy eating can be a breeze with a wealth of mealtime ideas that take 30 minutes or less to prepare.

A high-performance blender, like the Vitamix 780, makes it easy to whip up plant-based concoctions like smoothies, soups and whole-food juices -- even healthy sorbets made from nothing but frozen fruit.

The blender has five touchscreen pre-programmed

Full-time Position Available: Canton Township Public Safety Service Officer Canton Township is now accepting applications for the Public Safety Service Officer position. Application Deadline: Monday, January 4, 2016. Applicants are encouraged to apply early. Job description with complete qualifications and hiring process is available on the Canton Township website: http://canton.applicantpro.com/jobs/.

(EOE)

WWW.MICHIGANCHRONICLE.COM

Note: Funds being reprogrammed were allocated in prior Community Development Block Grant years.

Notice of Non-Discrimination: The City of Detroit does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, age, handicap, sex or sexual orientation. Complaints may be filed with the Detroit Human Rights Department, 1230 Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, Detroit, MI 48226

HELP WANTED

DIGITAL DAILY

• Increase the Block Grant appropriation for Cass Community Social Service – Public Service funding by $60,000.00

City of Detroit Housing and Revitalization Department Warren T. Duncan Grants Management Section Coleman A. Young Municipal Center 2 Woodward Rm 908 Detroit, MI 48226 Telephone: (313)224-0315

Page D-4

settings and an LED control panel to quickly create recipes with a single touch.

Stick to It Now that you’ve committed to a whole foods-centered eating regimen, ensure old habits stay in the past. Take a few moments to write down scenarios that might sidetrack you and how to avoid them. For example, partner up with friends or loved ones to form a support system and encourage each other to make healthy choices when getting together for occasional meals out. And lastly-it’s okay to indulge here and there. You will be successful if you are happy about your choices and don’t feel restricted.

Focus on this new approach to eating to set out on the right course to optimal health. Understand what whole foods are, how to include them in your diet, and work with a support system.

You’ll be well on the way to long-term success.

Marathon Petroleum Company LP, a major petroleum refiner and marketer, is seeking Refinery Operators for its Detroit Refinery.

Operations personnel are responsible for controlling a safe and efficient refining process and performing related routine maintenance. Employees must have the ability to climb over 75 feet, work in confined spaces, wear proper safety equipment, including a self-contained breathing apparatus as necessary, use hand tools, and work both indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions.

The successful candidate will be a fast learner and possess the minimum of a H.S. diploma (some college or technical coursework is preferred). Excellent math, computer, communication, and analytical skills are required. Employees are subject to random drug testing.

Employees work a rotating Day/Night 12-hour shift schedule, 4 days on and 4 days off, from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. with some overtime required.

The position includes a comprehensive benefits package including medical, pension and a 401K savings plan. The starting wage is $25.41/hr. with regular planned increases. If you like working in an industrial process environment, have the above qualifications and want a challenging opportunity, applications will be accepted online at www.marathonpetroleum.com/careers between December 6, 2015 and December 12, 2015.

All candidates must apply on-line and Human Resources cannot accept paper resumes.

No phone calls please. No paper applications will be distributed or accepted, all candidates must apply online.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

praise connect

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

December 2-8, 2015

Page D-5

Local pastor releases debut gospel album

By Jason Flowers After years of serving in local government as director of Parks and Recreation for Wayne County, Assistant County Executive of Wayne County, and director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Detroit, Pastor Hurley J. Coleman released his debut gospel album titled “Send Your Word” on Dec. 5.

Detroit’s own Dr. Dorinda Clark-Cole and Karen Clark-Sheard of the world-renowned gospel group the Clark Sisters have done it again. The two soul-stirring sisters are nominated for a Grammy Awards for Best Gospel Album — “Living It” by Dr. Dorinda Clark-Cole and “Destined to Win” by Karen Clark-Sheard. The Grammy’s will be presented Feb. 15 in Los Angeles and broadcast live on CBS.

Family Victory Fellowship offers education and business training to students Family Victory Fellowship has been serving the Detroit community for the past 17 years The family-oriented ministry is dedicated to building, strengthening and restoring families. The ministerial leadership also encourages an entrepreneurial spirit among members of the congregation. Many church and non-church members know First Lady Sylvia Jordan as the Council President for City of Southfield, who also recently ran for mayor of Southfield. Members refer to Jordan as a kind soul who guides mothers and daughters in life choices, all the while encouraging a closer walk with God. Her husband and senior pastor, Larry Jordan, is an architect by trade, and is the founder of The School of Entrepreneurship and Business.

On weekdays, Family Victory Fellowship is immersed in teaching young people reading, writing, arithmetic, science, technology and business. The church houses Victory Learning Center and the Children’s Technological Academy, a daycare and grade school in its building on 10 Mile Road in Southfield, and reports that children learn two grade levels above their peers. Both schools have been open since 1998, and there are currently 80 students on their combines rosters.

The students learn using the Abeka Book curriculum, which is a traditional curriculum that has been helpful on standardized tests and ACT/SAT. This curriculum starts in the infant class, the toddlers focus on early literacy and phonics. The daycare and grade school are Christian based learning environment. The students in 1st to 6th grade learn biology, physics and chemistry each quarter, each year based on their grade level. They have hands-on labs, along with the regular requirements of language arts, math and reading.

“The students at Children’s Technological Academy perform at two grade levels above their peers at other schools,” said Pastor Jordan.

The school offers small class sizes with a maximum of ten students per instructor, Special elective classes are also offered and range from art and music, to technology and entrepreneurship.

“The entrepreneurship classes encourage students to own their own business by having them start with managing school stores, putting their money into the business and at the end of the year, the students receive a profit share.

As they progress, the students have to

market and create their own businesses by the time they graduate sixth grade” said Mary Donaldson, Program Director for Victory Learning Center and Children’s Technological Academy.

Family Victory Fellowship offers something for everyone on Sunday with the teachings of the Bible to help you get through your week and offer a promising educational future for families with children in kindergarten through sixth grade. Family Victory Fellowship is located at 19421 W. 10 Mile Rd. in Southfield. Sunday worship service begins at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m., and Saturday worship experience is from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The Michigan Chronicle and Humana would like to thank Family Victory Fellowship for allowing them to worship with them on Nov. 8 and share our literature on healthcare marketplace.

For more information about Humana, call 1-866-672-9165 or go to www.humanahelps.comp

The Michigan native says his album “incorporates the sound of today’s gospel music with the foundation of the traditional sound to create a body of music that encapsulates the worship experience of today’s believer.”

Pastor Coleman is the pastor of the World Outreach Campus in Saginaw, and has been singing and playing instruments since he was four years old.

“Music just comes natural to me,” he said. “I hear it in everything, and now I want others to experience the joy I feel when I sing.”

Pastor Coleman has shared the stage with many legends in all genres of music. His first major appearance was on an album where Dr. Mattie Moss Clark presented the Greater Williams Temple’s church choir, which gave him significant radio exposure. He also shared the stage with gospel greats Dorinda ClarkCole, Karen Clark-Sheard, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Marvin L. Winans, Thomas

Whitfield, Yolanda Adams and more.

Affectionately called “Coleman” by many, the full-time pastor says his single “Glory to God” is a Bible-based worship song that leads listeners into a contemporary worship, while the title song, “Send Your Word,” is a prayer ballad describing a time when a word from God is what you need.

“I hope that everyone who hears my music feels inspired, and has an authentic encounter with God,” said Pastor Coleman.

For booking and more information contact him via email at hjcolemanmusic@gmail.com.

Come celebrate with Missionary Hattie B. Humphrey and “Community Highlights” at the Holiday CloseOut Service on Dec. 14, 6:30 pm, at Mayflower Baptist Church located at 2270 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit, where Pastor Douglas Butler is the host pastor. The guest speakers will be Bishop William Murphy Sr. of Greater Ebenezer Church and Pastor Shirley Douglas Little of Abyssinian Church of God in Christ. Joining in this celebration will be Bishop Edgar Vann, Pastor Alvin Jackson, Rev. Nicholas Hood, Pastor Larry Robinson, Pastor Robert Smith, Rev. Lenard Thomas, Bishop Rudolph Stanfield Sr., James Carpenter, Dr. Toni Booker, Bishop Michael Jones and Bishop Eric Mitchell. For more information, please call Michael Van Tull at (248) 516-8300.

Congratulations to Rev. Richard E. Luckett on his 10th pastoral anniversary at St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church, Detroit. Pastor Luckett is a “faithful minister” doing a “faithful ministry.” We, the members of the Pastor’s Ladder Ministry, along with the entire congregation, send our love and prayers to our pastor on this auspicious occasion and we look forward to many more years to come. All are invited to share in this momentous celebration on Sunday, Dec. 13, 11:00 am, St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church, 2670 E. Forest, Detroit. Theme: “Faithful Minister, Faithful Ministry.” — 1Timothy 1:12.

PRAISE CONNECT Are you hosting a concert or faithfriendly event?

Are you celebrating an anniversary or special occasion?

PROMOTE IT HERE! Contact us at: nblack@realtimesmedia.com

Page D-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • December 9-15, 2015

rebate Cricket VISA Promotion Card ®

Buy an eligible Smartphone between $20 and $50, port your number to Cricket & activate new qualifying plan (min $40/mo.). Must make 2nd service payment w/in 45 days.*

ZTE Overture

Motorola Moto E

LG Risio

Nokia Lumia 635

Visit your local authorized Cricket dealer location(s) below: 3222 Caniff St Hamtramck, MI 48212 (313) 875-6000

20808 Gratiot Avenue Eastpointe, MI 48021 (586) 359-6068

19551 Plymouth Rd Detroit, MI 48228 (313) 273-3254

7633 W Vernor Hwy Detroit, MI 48209 (313)-436-1831

7635 E 8 Mile Rd #5 Warren, MI 48091 (586) 576-7992

25246 Greenfield Rd Oak Park, MI 48237 (248) 268-1786

4718 Anthony Wayne Dr Ste B Detroit, MI 48201 (313) 974-6281

23035 Coolidge Hwy Oak Park, MI 48237 (248) 268-3283

27360 Michigan Ave Inkster, MI 48141 (313) 561-6300

15224 Wyoming St Detroit, MI 48238 (313) 307-7165

2071 E. 8 Mile Road Warren, MI 48091 (586) 578-9186

29285 Southfield Rd Ste B Southfield , MI 48076 (248) 327-7046

14838 W 7 Mile Rd Detroit, MI 48235 (800) 274-2538

9310 Woodward Ave Detroit, MI 48202 (313) 285-8994

25243 Telegraph Road Southfield , MI 48033 (248) 234-8552

4415 Livernois Ave Detroit, MI 48210 (313) 502-5985

13332 E Jefferson Ave Detroit, MI 48215 (313) 822-2022

35603 Warren Road Westland, MI 48185 (734) 326-1100

7715 E 7 Mile Rd Detroit, MI 48234 (313) 826-1285

2974 W Davison Detroit, MI 48238 (313) 826-1794

2410 S Wayne Rd Westland, MI 48186 (734) 329-2900

16915 Harpr Avenue Detroit, MI 48224 (313) 477-5484

16226 W Warren Ave Detroit, MI 48228 (313) 427-8090

Valid on Motorola Moto E ($49.99), ZTE Overture 2 ($39.99), LG Risio ($29.99) and Nokia Lumia 635 ($19.99) only. Available only at Cricket retail locations and cricketwireless.com. While supplies last. No rain checks. Rebate form must be submitted by 2/6/16. New activation on smartphone plan required ($40/month minimum). Valid only for customers who port their number from another carrier. Excludes ports from AT&T. Phone price and tax due at sale. Void in CT, RI, and Miami-Dade County, FL. Promotion Card, issued by MetaBank®, member FDIC, or CenterState Bank of Florida, NA pursuant to license from VISA U.S.A. Inc., is not redeemable for cash and may not be used for cash withdrawal at any cash-dispensing locations or at automated gasoline pumps. Card may be used to pay for your Cricket wireless services. Card is non-transferable and non-refundable. Funds shown on the Card. Must be active and in good standing for 45 days. Customer must make second service payment within 45 days of activation to receive card. Customer could cancel anytime, but if not active for 45 days and does not make second service ®

Cricket VISA® Promotion Card. Restocking fee for smartphone return up to $25 may apply. In-store activation fee up to $25 apply.

Visit Cricket store for details. Restrictions and other charges may apply. without notice. For cardholder agreement and complete terms and conditions, please visit https://www.cricketwireless.com/legalinfo/promotion-card-terms-and-conditions.html. ©2015 Cricket Wireless LLC. All rights reserved.