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January 11-17, 2017

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Volume 80 – Number 18

The Walk to Freedom

By Lee Claire

In times of Trump, remember Dr. King Chances are he'd have a few things to say about Obama's replacement

By Keith A. Owens Senior Editor

Considering what’s about to happen to us on January 20, when one of the greatest and most gracious presidents this country has ever been fortunate enough to have at the helm must step aside from all his accomplishments to make way for a man who poses one of the gravest threats to the office of the presidency — and to this country — that we have faced in at least a century, it’s time for all sane Americans to shake this depression and get to work. Because in a very real sense, our lives, and the lives of our families, may depend on what we all do collectively from this point forward.

COMMENTARY

It’s what Dr. Martin Luther King would do.

In thinking about this, it’s hard not to think about how King might have responded to this situation. The honest answer is there’s no way to really know because the man has been dead for nearly 50 years, and the America of King’s day was different in a number of ways from today. For one, there’s no way a black man named Barack Obama, the product of a white woman and an African man, could have ever been elected President of the United States during King’s America.

Still, there remains the endurance of King’s words, which offers at least a sliver of insight into the counsel King may have offered suggesting how to confront the looming dilemma that will characterize the next four years.

WHAT’S INSIDE

That said, every year on Martin Luther King Day everybody seems to want to focus on the “I Have A Dream” speech, which was actually first delivered in Detroit. Not that there’s anything necessarily wrong with that, because it was a fine speech. Powerful.

But it was hardly the only speech King delivered worth remembering. Although King is rightfully considered the one human being who best represents the spirit — and the struggle — of the civil rights movement in America (at least in the popular memory), King was also strongly committed to correcting social inequity and injustice overall, which explained his strong opposition to the Vietnam War, a conflict that he viewed as gravely immoral.

Given President-elect Donald Trump’s obvious struggles with the inconvenient demands of morality, I think it’s safe to say that had King lived to see Trump become our nation’s next president, he would have recognized the situation for the crisis that it presents to all of us.

No, not just for black people, or even only for the majority of voting Americans who had the good sense to vote against the man. Because as many of Trump’s deplorables are swiftly finding out, their white supremacist hero is an equal opportunity threat to poor and working class white folks just as he is a threat to poor and working class everybody else.

Or as King said:

“We may have all come on different ships, but we're in the same boat now.”

we’ll be able to deal with patching the holes and making sure we don't all drown.

“In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.”

We all know the things Trump said, and he didn’t say them by accident. By their fruits ye shall know them? Yeah, well Trump has more than enough rotten fruit lying around bearing his engraved initials for us to know who is responsible for the smell. But it’s those among us who still claim to be good friends and buddies, yet who would prefer to abstain every time someone is needed for the struggle ahead, that we need to screen out. Those individuals should be recognized as ex-friends and associates.

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”

If you can walk through a room and not leave any evidence you were there, then you weren’t there.

“Change does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability, but comes through continuous struggle. And so we must straighten our backs and work for our freedom. A man can't ride you unless your back is bent.”

One of my favorite quotes from Dr. King. As the saying goes, freedom ain’t free. It ain’t permanent either. All the things Dr. King fought for, all the things that President Obama fought for, will require a constant struggle to maintain. Evil doesn’t sleep, and it’s always hungry.

Indeed we are. And the sooner we realize it, the sooner, and more effectively,

“Human progress is neither automat-

See DR

KING page A-4

See page D-1

$1.00

“While we celebrate the dream and the legacy of Dr. King, we are compelled to work to make that dream a reality,” said Rev. Wendell Anthony, president of the Detroit Branch NAACP. “It’s not solely because this state has become a right-to-work state or because we are having financial issues all over the state of Michigan, including in Detroit. It's because of all of those issues, but it’s mostly because the work of Dr. King is not finished. We've made a great deal of strides since Dr. King walked down Woodward, but we cannot afford to rest.”

On MLK day this year, hundreds of Detroit residents are expected to march down Woodward Ave. to protest continued struggles with blight, education, unemployment and judicial reform. The Rally and March for Jobs, Peace and Justice will begin at noon at Central United Methodist Church and those gathered will proceed to the Freedom March through downtown Detroit.

While Detroit has its own special set of circumstances and

See FREEDOM page A-4

President Obama prepares for White House departure Michigan Chronicle Reports

Strange relationships and marriages (in retrospect)

“And so we must say, now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to transform this pending national elegy into a creative psalm of brotherhood. Now is the time to lift our nation. Now is the time to lift our nation from the quick sands of racial injustice, to the solid rock of racial justice.” – DR. Martin Luther King Jr. On June 23, 1963 a crowd of 25,000 gathered in Detroit for the largest civil rights demonstration at that time in the nation’s history. The Walk to Freedom, organized by Rev. Clarence L. Franklin (father of singer Aretha Franklin) and Rev. Albert Cleage (father of noted author Pearl Cleage), has been obscured in history by the great March on Washington, but it provided Martin Luther King Jr. a platform to deliver an impassioned speech which was the precursor to the famous “I Have a Dream” speech which he delivered only several weeks later in Washington.

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,” Martin Luther King Jr. declared and five decades later, that statement is still an imperative in a country that is struggling bitterly with bigotry, bias and inequality.

happen over the long haul, and that is rebuild the Democratic Party at the ground level.”

As President Obama’s time in the Oval Office nears an end, he’s reflecting on the legacy that he will leave behind. During a recent interview, he shared that in retrospect he wishes he could have done more to strengthen the Democratic Party, reports the Huffington Post.

Over the past few years, Democrats have experienced major losses in Congress. According to political reports, Democrats have lost more than 900 state legislature seats within the last eight years.

But just to keep the facts straight, it's important to take a look back and see just how much really was accomplished during the Obama presidency.

According to Factcheck.org's July 2016 “Obama's Numbers Update,” these are just some of what President Obama has managed to achieve despite strenuous opposition every step of the way from Republicans in the House and Senate:

During a sit-down with George Stephanopoulos for ABC’s “This Week,” which marked his last interview as president with the network, President Obama said that timing was a major factor when it came to strengthening the Democratic Party during his tenure. When he became president in 2009, the U.S. was experiencing one of the worst economic pitfalls in its history.

“We were just at the beginnings of a recovery,” Obama told Stephanopoulos, writes the Post. “You know, whoever is president at that point is gonna get hit and his party’s gonna get hit. That then means that suddenly you’ve got a redistricting in which a lot of state legislatures are now Republican. They draw lines that give a huge structural advantage in subsequent

Health Insurance

elections.”

He also added that it was challenging to juggle the responsibilities of building the party from a grassroots level and serving as president.

“Because

my

docket

was

really full here… I couldn’t be both chief organizer of the Democratic Party and function as commander-in-chief and president of the United States,” President Obama told ABC, according to the Huffington Post. “We did not begin what I think needs to

The number of people lacking health insurance has dropped dramatically under Obama, thanks largely to the Affordable Care Act. In all of 2015, according to the most recent data from the National Health Interview Survey

See DEPARTURE page A-4

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

January 11-17, 2017

Dingell joins families and labor leaders to highlight impact of Affordable Care Act in Michigan

New developments in Flint water case, Concerned Pastors v. Khouri On Nov. 10, 2016, the district court granted Plaintiffs Concerned Pastors for Social Action, Melissa Mays, NRDC, and ACLU of Michigan’s motion for a preliminary injunction. The court’s order requires the city and state to ensure that all Flint residents have access to safe water, by verifying that all homes served by Flint’s water system have properly installed filters and periodically ensuring that the filters are properly maintained. If the city and state have not verified that a home has a properly installed and working filter, they must deliver bottled water to the home on a weekly basis.

On Dec. 2, the district court denied the state’s request to delay implementation of the preliminary injunction until it appeals the judge’s order.

Less than two weeks later, on Dec. 13, the state filed a new motion with the district court, asking that the court “dissolve” the injunction. In that motion, the State argued that Flint’s water system was complying with the Lead and Copper Rule’s corrosion-control treatment requirements because testing data from October and November showed 90th percentile lead levels below the Rule’s “lead action level” of 15 parts per billion.

Plaintiffs responded to the state’s motion on Dec. 27. Plaintiffs explained that the lead action level does not determine whether a water system is complying with the Lead and Copper Rule’s corrosion-control treatment requirement. Instead, the Rule requires water systems to maintain treatment that “minimizes”

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lead levels at users’ taps.

Lead levels in Flint’s water have not yet been minimized. In fact, Flint’s lead levels are still more than double the levels in Detroit, which uses similar source water treated with the same corrosion-inhibiting chemical.

The district court will hear argument on the motion to dissolve on Jan. 24. In the meantime, we expect the State to repeat its inaccurate argument that Flint’s drinking water is complying with the Lead and Copper Rule at the town hall meeting in Flint on Jan. 11.

On Dec. 16, the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals denied the State’s motion before that court to stay the effect of the preliminary injunction during appeal. That same day, the state and city submitted to the district court status reports concerning their “compliance” with the preliminary injunction. The status reports showed that the state and city had made little progress at ensuring all Flint homes had properly installed and maintained filters, and no progress at developing a bottled water delivery program that could serve homes without confirmed, working filters.

On Dec. 20, Plaintiffs filed an emergency motion with the district court to enforce the preliminary injunction by ordering the state and city to take concrete steps.

On Dec. 28, the district court appointed a settlement master to oversee settlement discussions between all parties to this case, as well as the Office of the Governor of the State of Michigan.

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U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-12) recently joined Michigan families, health care providers and labor leaders at Western Wayne Family Health Centers to discuss how the Affordable Care Act impacts Michigan.

Since the ACA was enacted in 2010, the uninsured rate in Michigan has fallen by more than 50 percent, with 695,000 residents gaining coverage.

House Republican Leadership has indicated that Congress may make major changes to the healthcare system this year, including repealing or weakening the law, which could reverse gains in access to coverage and care.

Wayne County Commission Chairman Gary Woronchak complimented his colleagues and the administration for the “notable successes” achieved over the past two years in his remarks after being elected to chair the commission for a fourth consecutive term.

Woronchak re-elected chairman of Wayne County Commission Wayne County Commissioner Gary Woronchak has been elected chair of the commission for a fourth consecutive term.

Woronchak, D-Dearborn, was elected by his colleagues on the 15-member commission at their organizational meeting for the 2017-18 term on Jan. 5.

Also elected to positions of leadership Thursday were Commissioner Alisha Bell, D-Detroit, who will serve her fourth term as vice-chair, and Commissioner Jewel Ware, D-Detroit, who will return for her third term as vice chair pro tempore.

As chairman, Woronchak is responsible for the commission’s budget and its employees. He also is responsible for scheduling and presiding over meetings, setting agendas and appointing members to standing committees.

The Wayne County Commission is the legislative branch of county government, providing oversight and checks and balances on the administration of Wayne County Executive Warren Evans.

The commission approves the annual county budget, approves contracts, passes resolutions and enacts ordinances.

Commissioners select a chair at the beginning of each two-year term, under the county charter. Woronchak was first elected chair in 2011.

Woronchak is beginning his seventh term on the commission, representing Dearborn and Allen Park in the com-

mission’s 13th District.

Prior to being elected to the commission in 2004, he served three terms in the state House of Representatives. Before government service, he worked more than 20 years as a newspaper editor.

In his remarks to commissioners following re-election as chairman, Woronchak reflected on the role of the commission in relation to the Evans administration.

“Government is designed to have some level of built-in friction between the branches,” he said. “We’re supposed to be at odds sometimes.

It’s really quite an effective system, all designed so the people’s business will be conducted openly, fairly and without corruption.

“There is an executive branch to administer the daily operations and delivery of service.

And there is a legislative branch to directly represent the people in this process.

“That is self-governance,” Woronchak added. “Whether it’s a county commission, the state Legislature or the United States Congress, the people must approve of what government does.

And the people do that through us, their elected representatives.”

Woronchak pointed out that this is the first term in at least 25 years when there has not been at least one new commissioner joining their ranks. All 15 commissioners were returned to office in elections in their individual districts in November.

“The Affordable Care Act is not perfect but it has provided Debbie Dingell a significant benefit to working families across Michigan,” said Dingell. “Since the ACA was implemented, 695,000 hardworking people in Michigan have gained health coverage and thousands more have benefited from the law, no matter where they get their coverage. Thanks to the ACA, preventative services like flu shots, cancer screenings and mammograms are now covered free of charge. People are no longer denied coverage because of a pre-existing condition, there are no more caps on lifetime benefits, and young people can stay on their parents’ plan until age 26. Hearing stories from today’s participants has reinforced for me that we cannot afford to go backwards. I will fight tooth and nail to protect the health care coverage that 695,000 people in Michigan and 20 million Americans rely upon.”

“Since the ACA, we have been able to see new patients who, without insurance coverage, were afraid to come to see a doctor because they knew that if there was something wrong, they couldn’t afford to do anything about it,” said Linda Atkins, CEO of Western Wayne Family Health Centers. “Many of our patients who had been using the sliding fee scale got coverage and were suddenly able to access preventive screenings, procedures and get medications they knew they needed but didn’t have a way to pay for it. The costs of cutting off this literal lifeline away are huge to society at large, and tragic to these people who are gaining better health and wellbeing.”

“Getting insurance has improved my quality of life,” said Bishop Walter L. Starghill, who gained coverage through Medicaid expansion in Michigan under the ACA. “I can now go to a clinic in my neighborhood to get services, staffed by friendly people who look like me. The impact on black men with increased access to insurance coverage is big—we didn’t take care of ourselves till it was too late and then had to go to the ER. It is psychologically beneficial to have that insurance card in your pocket. Now we can get checked out early and take care of ourselves before it is too late.”

“Everyone needs to remember the ACA is an economic driver, first and foremost because healthy people can work, and unhealthy people cannot,” said Mary Zatina, vice president for Government Relations and Community Affairs at Beaumont Health. “Our hospitals are some of the biggest employers in their communities and states. Healthcare is the source of technology, engineering, and advanced training. It is the knowledge that makes our country the world leader it is. On top of all that, hospitals provide the compassion and tender care that we all say makes America great.”

“I come from a family where many of its members have struggled with cancer,” said Dora Rodriguez-Sharkey, member of UAW Local 3000. “My father, husband, and younger sister were recently diagnosed, and they would not have been able to get health care coverage after leaving their jobs – or would have gone bankrupt paying for it – without the ACA. The fact that people can no longer be denied coverage because of a pre-existing condition is the most valuable part of the ACA to me” “Labor has viewed access to healthcare as a right not a privilege for more than a century,” said Metro-Detroit AFL-CIO President Rick Blocker. “If Republicans repeal the Affordable Care Act they are telling working people they do not make enough money to have that right. They are telling working people that only the elite deserve access to health care.”

Dr. Manzar Rajput, a geriatric psychiatrist and a member of the Association of Physicians of Pakistani Descent of North America (APPNA), also participated in the roundtable discussion about the ACA’s impact in Michigan.

Notice: Prevent Home Foreclosure. The Wayne County Treasurer’s Office 2017 show cause hearings are scheduled this January for all Wayne County property owners who have been notified of a pending foreclosure.

If you have received a show cause notice but are enrolled in a payment plan and have missed two or less payments, are current on your taxes, and will have your 2016 taxes paid by March 1, 2017, you do not have to attend.

For all others notified, you should plan to attend on the date and time provided in your notice. If you need more information, call 313-224-5990.

The show cause hearings will be held at the Wayne County Treasurer's Office, 8th Floor, at 400 Monroe in downtown Detroit.

The Wayne County Treasurer’s Office 2017 show cause hearings will be held January 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24 and 25.

For more information, call 313-224-5990 or email us at info@waynecounty.com

Eric R. Sabree

Wayne County Treasurer

www.treasurer.waynecounty.com (313) 224-5950

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

January 11-17, 2016

Page A-3

Planning director says neighborhoods about to shine

By Keith A. Owens Senior Editor

It’s way past time for Detroit’s neighborhoods to get some love, same as downtown, but it looks like that time may have finally arrived. To quote the city’s new Planning Department director, Maurice Cox: “I like to say this is the beginning of [James Brown’s] The Big Payback. This is what I believe people who have stuck it out in the city have been waiting for.

For the attention to turn from downtown, which is doing just fine, and Midtown, which is doing just fine, to neighborhoods that have just not received a lot of attention. And that’s really where the soul of this city resides. It’s the thing that gets me super excited about my job.

I mean, the downtown stuff, no offense to anyone, but, you know, everybody’s done it and doing it, and now we’re doing it, and that’s great. What people have not done as effectively is focus on the neighborhoods where people live. How do you acknowledge what’s already there, and keep people in place? That’s part of our strategy. There’s so much space in this city that no one should have to be displaced.

“We don’t have to build another single family house in the city for at least my lifetime. We could just rehab the thousands and thousands of gorgeous houses that still exist.”

Cox has now been at the helm of Detroit’s Planning Department for 18 months, and one thing he emphasized strongly when he first showed up on the scene was his desire to bring the same amount of attention and passion to the city’s neighborhoods that is currently being enjoyed primarily by downtown and Midtown. During a relatively brief but highly informative talk held at the Green Garage in Midtown last week, Cox delivered an update to a previous discussion he had delivered at the same location a year ago. The focus of the update was to inform the public not only of what has been done, but what is being planned.

“A lot has happened, and it’s been an extraordinary year for us,” he said.

“When I got here, I inherited a very skeletal planning operation. Most would say they did not do planning. In fact, there are people who have grown up in Detroit who have never seen a planner. But there were six planners that I inherited whose average tenure was about 15 years with the city. So the mayor asked me, what was it going to take to transform this into one of the best planning departments in the country, and I said well we can start by you giving me some additional planners. I don’t think I can do it with six. Just to put that into perspective, Washington, D.C., a city of about 550,000, had 60 planners. We had six. So you can see the problem.”

The mayor allowed Cox to make 25 new hires.

Along with the hiring of Janet Attarian, his deputy director, whom Cox described as a “rock star,” “we also hired four historic preservationists, four landscape architects, four urban designers, and about eight architects” as well as four planners. “So the composition of our planning department is pretty radical for planning departments” because most planning departments only have planners in them. Cox described his decision to expand the definition of the department through its creative staffing as the best way to address the full scope of

Detroit Planning Department Director Maurice Cox and Deputy Director Janet Attarian — Keith A. Owens photo what Detroit’s neighborhoods need.

“The other part after I got here was how to get a handle on the sheer size of Detroit. And so one of the diagrams that I’m sure many of you have seen is the diagram by University of Detroit Mercy that shows the city of Boston, the city of San Francisco and the island of Manhattan all within the city of Detroit. And so it kind of impressed me that really what we’re talking about are cities within a city…It was a very convenient way of breaking it down.”

Following through on that novel view of Detroit, Cox and his staff went about creating departments within his own, each designed to tackle specific neighborhood planning and development issues. There is the Department of Strategic Planning, which operates from a broad scope overviewing the city as a whole. Then there is the Office of Zoning and Innovation, which focuses on more innovative approaches to zoning such as “pink” zoning (the name came from the idea of diluting red tape, thus going from red to pink), deals with disentangling the bureaucracy that inhibits innovation in the city’s commercial corridors.

And then there is the aptly-named Office of Yes that manages the department’s higher education and philanthropic partnerships. The goal, spurred by the name, is to find more ways of getting to “yes” on assisting with innovative approaches, rather than the characteristic “no” which is what so many have come to expect.

Perhaps one of the most fascinating ideas Cox is bringing to Detroit is one that would help to better stabilize those core neighborhoods that are already densely populated but just need some assistance to move away from just hanging on toward a more comfortable state.

“Our job is to complete what’s missing from those neighborhoods,” he said.

“And so one of the ideas that we borrowed from Portland, Oregon is the idea of 20-minute neighborhoods, and it’s a

Wayne County Treasurer Eric R. Sabree announces ‘show cause’ hearings to help prevent foreclosures in 2017

very simple concept. You as a resident of one of these higher density areas should be able to walk or bike within 20 minutes of your front door to a host of neighborhood-serving amenities.” That could include libraries, schools, parks, public transit, restaurants, etc.

This approach is already being pioneered in the Livernois/McNichols area which includes about eight different neighborhoods. Cox said that a portion of the vacant land there will be to host a variety of sustainable landscape uses such as orchards. Neighborhood businesses will also be able to utilize the lots adjacent to them. Another 100 acres of land is reserved for a neighborhood central park, and yet another 100 acres will be strung together to create a greenway for a bicycle/pedestrian connection that connects University of Detroit Mercy to Marygrove College.

“We are now taking this strategy of comprehensively looking at neighborhoods to where we’ve committed to seven more [neighborhoods] that will be under design in 2017,” said Cox, adding that four planning and design contracts have already been awarded to various

123RD ANNUAL JANUARY CLEARANCE SALE

400 FURS

REDUCED

% 40

Sabree added that anyone who is concerned about foreclosure does not need to wait for the show cause hear-

300 FURS REDUCED

% 50

The meetings will be held throughout January. Those who have received a notice are encouraged to attend the hearings, if necessary or to contact the Treasurer’s Office to discuss their situation.

For more information please call 313-224-5990 or send an email to info@ waynecounty.com.

“Our notion was not to leave anyone behind but to focus like a laser on the places that we know that with these additional strategies we can make whole.

Not five years from now, but right now,” he said. “That tends to be areas where the city owns 25-30 percent of the property. Then there are areas where 35-50 percent of the land is publicly owned, and we’re going to be there too. So that’s Clairmount/Rosa Parks area. Fifty percent of that land is publicly owned.

“We know we can get the early successes in those areas that are most dense. And then once we figure that out we can expand that and get to the next ring that may not be as populated.”

OF THE YEAR ARE GOING ON NOW

The treasurer in this month will also hold show cause hearings for people who have received a “yellow bag” formal notice of intent to foreclose on properties in Wayne County.

Accordingly, the Wayne County Treasurer’s Office arranged to hold the hearings on January 10, 11, 12, 17,18, 19, 24 and 25 at 400 Monroe, Detroit on the 8th floor. The meetings walk taxpayers through foreclosure prevention options.

They also have a host of public-private alliance organizations on hand to provide free financial counseling, assistance with energy bills, home financing and related services.

One of those areas is Southwest Detroit. The Rosa Parks/Clairmount area is another, as well as Grand River northwest. However, the obvious question is what happens with the neighborhoods that aren’t very stable and are much less dense? Those with only a few houses on the entire block and nothing but wide open field and garbage everywhere else?

THE BIGGEST SAVINGS

Wayne County Treasurer Eric R. Sabree is pleased to announce that his office is gearing up to help reduce foreclosures in 2017 by expanding efforts to meet with homeowners who have received foreclosure notices.

“By law, these hearings are called ‘show cause’ hearings,” said Treasurer Sabree. “This office would prefer to use the hearings as an opportunity to educate taxpayers on options available through my office to possibly prevent foreclosures and help people stay in their homes. The last thing we want to do is foreclose on a home.”

organizations to work in concert with neighborhood residents in designing these areas.

150 FURS REDUCED Eric R. Sabree ings. Homeowners can contact the Treasurer’s Office during regular business hours for personalized attention to their case.

75%-80%

SALE ENDS JANUARY 28

The Wayne County Treasurer’s Office 2017 show cause hearings are scheduled for all Wayne County property owners who have been notified of a pending foreclosure.

If a taxpayer has received a show cause notice but is enrolled in a payment plan and has missed two or less payments, is current on their taxes, and will have their 2016 taxes paid by March 1, 2017, they do not have to attend.

For all others notified, they should plan to attend the show cause hearing on the date and time provided in their notice.

Feel the luxury dittrichfurs.com Detroit|7373 Third Ave.|(313) 873-8300 Bloomfield Hills|39515 Woodward Ave.|(248) 642-3000

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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Dr. King

Freedom

From page A-1 ic nor inevitable... Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals.”

This is in case you missed the point of the last quote.

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

About as straightforward as you can get. As I said before, Trump isn’t just a threat to those who opposed his presidency.

He’s a threat to justice everywhere.

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”

Unbend your back.

“Never forget that everything Hitler did in Germany was legal.”

Too far? If you think so, my suggestion would be to take a look at history, then get back to me. There’s a reason why Trump was openly and joyously endorsed and celebrated by both the Ku Klux Klan and all the

January 11-17, 2017

other white nationalist groups. Same recognizes same. And all the ways Trump scammed the system through multiple bankruptcies so he didn’t have to pay so many of the workers on his multiple projects? Legal. His plans for supporting his fellow Republicans in dismantling Obamacare with nothing to replace it?

Legal. His reported plans to restructure the intelligence agencies because he doesn’t like the truth they told him about Russia’s hacking? Perfectly legal. His strong prefer-

ence for shutting out the press and communicating his own take on reality with no one to question his actions via Twitter?

Legal. His election? Yep. Legal.

And so on, and so on, and so on…

“Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.”

The evidence of Russian interference in the 2016 election in an effort to thwart the election of Hillary Clinton in favor

Departure conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 28.6 million people of all ages reported being without coverage at the time they were interviewed.

That’s 7.4 million fewer uninsured than in 2014, and 15.2 million fewer than during all of 2008, before Obama took office (see Table 1.1a).

As a percentage of all U.S. residents, the uninsured have dropped to 9.1 percent of the population last year, from 14.7 percent in 2008.

Jobs and Unemployment Number of Jobs — The economy has added another 401,000 jobs since the last report in April. As of June, total nonfarm employment stood 10,122,000 higher than when Obama first took office.

That 10 million gain is less than half the nearly 23 million jobs gained during the booming years of Bill Clinton’s presidency, but far greater than the 1.3 million added during President George W. Bush’s eight years, which were plagued by two recessions.

Unemployment Rate — Meanwhile the unemployment rate has ticked down since our last report to 4.9 percent in June. It had dropped

of Donald Trump is now overwhelming. Trump’s response has been to effectively stick his head in the sand, refusing to be briefed by his own intelligence agencies who collected that evidence. Then, when he finally allowed himself to be briefed, he didn't like what they said so he has said that he plans to possibly redesign these agencies in such a way that they will bring him only the news he wants to hear.

Questions?

From page A-1 even lower — to 4.7 percent — in May.

rate declined in June to 62.7 percent.

It’s now 2.9 percentage points lower than it was in January 2009, when the president first took office in the midst of the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. The economic crisis drove the unemployment rate to 10 percent within months of Obama’s first entering office.

That rate, which is the portion of the entire civilian population age 16 and older that is either employed or currently looking for work, is now 3 percentage points lower than when Obama took office. That decline is due mostly to the post-World War II baby boomers reaching retirement age, and other demographic factors.

The jobless rate is now significantly lower than the historical norm. In all the months between 1948 and the time Obama took office, the median jobless rate was 5.5 percent.

Long-term Unemployment — One lingering effect of the 20072009 recession is the number of long-term unemployed — those who have been looking for work for 27 weeks or longer.

Job Openings — The number of job openings has more than doubled under Obama to the highest number in the more than 15 years the Bureau of Labor Statistics has been tracking it.

There were still nearly 2 million long-term jobless in June. That’s 720,000 fewer than when the president first took office, but still 655,000 higher than in December 2007, at the start of the Great Recession.

In April, the most recent month on record, the number of job openings reached 5,788,000, equaling a record first set in July 2015. That’s 109 percent more than in January 2009. The number of job openings now has exceeded 5 million for 15 consecutive months.

Labor Participation Rate —Despite the plentiful availability of jobs, the labor force participation

The average length of unemployment also remains far above pre-recession levels.

On average, those who were unemployed in June had been without work for 27.7 weeks. That’s 11.1 weeks longer than at the start of the recession, and 7.9 weeks longer than the month Obama first took office.

challenges to overcome, the city has been largely more responsive and progressive than many in putting King’s policies into practice, although employment and wealth remain major points of disparity for African American Detroiters.

Labor unions fought for and protected workers rights, black-owned businesses emerged in unprecedented numbers and the color of politics changed radically. Even in the organizing of the Walk to Freedom, local leaders, specifically the Detroit branch of the NAACP insisted that the march be all-inclusive, and warned that any other course of action bordered on prejudice and would make the participants perpetrators of the bigotry they denounced.

“Dr. King didn’t just stand for anti-racism. He stood for workers’ rights and against corporate dictation of the masses. He was also against militarism and the exploitation of the common American in the industrial complex.

The same issues he struggled against are still valid today. These are issues that affect all Americans …” said Dawud Walid, the executive director of the Council on American Islamic Relations in Michigan.

Just as MLK’s message calls for minorities to stand united against injustice, residents in Detroit today are using his

Supporters of Children’s Hospital of Michigan Foundation (CHMF), one of eight children’s charities benefiting from the 2017 Auto Show Charity Preview, can enhance their festive evening at special preand post-Preview parties. To thank individuals who designate CHMF as their charity of choice for the Auto Show Preview, the Foundation will host a complimentary pre-reception beginning at 4:30 p.m., Jan. 13 at the MGM Grand Detroit Casino and Hotel.

In addition, guests can extend their Charity Preview evening at CHMF’s Big Shots, LITTLE STARS, a glamorous after-glow featuring a strolling dinner, cocktails and entertainment by Kimmie Horne. Big Shots, LITTLE STARS begins at 8:30 p.m. at MGM Grand. Complimentary transportation will be provided to and from the Auto Show Charity Preview. Tickets are $250 and are available by calling (313)

964-6994 or online at www.chmfoundation.org/bsls2017.

CHMF is a 501(C) (3) charitable organization and proceeds will advance children’s health through community-based and hospital programs, medical research and education.

“We are very pleased that Children’s Hospital of Michigan Foundation was again chosen as a recipient of the Auto Show Charity Preview and we are especially grateful to the individuals who chose the Foundation as their charity of choice. These funds will benefit Michigan children of all ages,” said CHMF President and CEO Lawrence J. Burns.

Detroit civic leader Mable Jones is the Big Shots, LITTLE STARS event board chair, and Royal Oak resident Luanne Thomas-Ewald, CEO of Children’s Hospital of Michigan, is event honorary chair.

Lead event sponsors include: MGM Grand Detroit, DMC Children’s Hos-

pital of Michigan, AAA, RDM Associates, Phoenix Innovate, Brinker/ Barton Malow, and HOUR Media.

Auto Show Charity Preview tickets are required for Big Shots, LITTLE STARS guests. Tickets are $400 ($390 tax-deductible) and are available at NAIAS.com or by calling (888) 838-7500.

Established in 2003, the Foundation is dedicated to advancing the health and healthcare of the children of Michigan. This is accomplished through philanthropic support for pediatric medical education, research, and community benefit programs. The Foundation granted $6.6 million in 2016 for 131 vital pediatric health initiatives.

The Foundation is an independent public charity governed by a community board of directors, and is a 501(c) (3) charitable organization.

Learn more at www.chmfoundation.org.

From page A-1 message to unify themselves as one city that has severely been impacted by poverty and corporate negligence.

After emerging as a hero for not only the African American community, but all communities and people around the world, recognizing Dr. King’s birthday as a national holiday is essential to realizing the principles he stood for, peace, justice and an end to violence, much like the birthday observation for Mohandas Gandhi in India.

“Thirty years ago I worked alongside a number of dedicated activists and civic leaders to making a dream a reality — getting Dr. King’s birthday recognized as a national holiday. I was too young to have marched with Dr. King when he came to Detroit in 1963, but later I had the honor of working for Coretta Scott King and with some of the most prominent figures in the movement, like Rev. James Orange, Harry Belafonte, Andrew Young and Rev. Joseph Lowery,” says Roz Edward, Michigan Chronicle managing editor. “It’s fate that the The King Center, which was then housed in the home where he was born, would also be the birthplace of the movement to have his birthday recognized as a national holiday.”

WSU, Arab American National Museum to partner for National Day of Racial Healing In the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Wayne State University and the Arab American National Museum (AANM) are collaborating with the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and more than 130 organizations on Tuesday, Jan. 17, for a National Day of Racial Healing.

Wayne State and the AANM will host three events on WSU’s main campus in an effort to heal the wounds created by racial, ethnic and religious bias and build an equitable and just society where all children can thrive. Given the challenging national climate, this is a timely concern.

"Out of crisis can come opportunity,” said Peter Hammer, professor at the Wayne State Law School and director of WSU’s Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights. “Building effective multiracial coalitions is the most viable bridge we have to a more equitable, peaceful and inclusive society. All Americans will be judged by how they respond to this moment."

The day’s events are organized by Wayne State’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion, the Office of Multicultural Student Engagement, and Wayne Law’s Detroit Equity Action Lab. The events are:

Children’s Hospital of Michigan Foundation hosts Auto Show Charity Preview parties

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“Meet and Greet: Come meet other leaders from across campus and the community who work to build inclusive communities.” Held at WSU’s Student Center Building, Hilberry AB, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.

“Self-care, resilience, and building networks of support.” Held at the Student Center, Hilberry AB, from 3 to 5 p.m.

“Advancing racial healing — Wayne State community dialogue.” Held in the David Adamany Undergraduate Library’s community room from 5 to 7 p.m.

“Over the past year we’ve hosted a number of dialogues on campus to provide people a space to share thoughts and feelings in the wake of tragic or challenging national events,” said Marquita Chamblee, associate provost for diversity and inclusion and Wayne State’s chief diversity officer. “It’s important to be able to proactively engage in thoughtful conversation about what racial

healing might look like on our campus and out in the larger community.

This event is serving as a springboard to future dialogues and forums we’ll be hosting in the coming year.”

In the next few weeks, the Kellogg Foundation and its Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation (TRHT) collaborating organizations will carry out a variety of events to mark the first-ever National Day of Racial Healing.

The TRHT, community, corporate and nonprofit partners represent a collective network of nearly 300 million Americans.

“The Arab American National Museum is proud to participate in the National Day of Racial Healing with Wayne State University,” said Dr. Matthew Jaber Stiffler, research and content manager for the AANM. “Now is the time to stand in solidarity against racism and injustice. At the AANM, we value building bridges and addressing social issues in addition to educating the public about the history, culture and contributions of Arab Americans.

Dr. King remembered for speech given in Grosse Pointe On Monday, January16, the Grosse Pointe-Harper Woods NAACP-Education Committee will host an event to honor Dr. Martin Luther King's visit to Grosse Pointe on March 14, 1968. The event will be held from 1:00-4:00 pm at the Grosse Pointe South High School's gym, which is the location of the original speech. Dr. King gave a 90-minute speech entitled "The Other America."

The Grosse Pointe Historical Society supplied the audio of the speech and it will be played and discussed. The event is free of charge, however donations to the Education Committee are welcome.

Grosse Pointes-Harper Woods NAACP President Greg Bowens will be the moderator. Bishop Clarence Langston-Word In Action Christian Center will offer comments on Dr. King. Mr. Blair Anderson -Michigan Faith in Action member and former Black Panther activist in the 1960's - will share his history with Dr. King in Chicago.

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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

January 11-17, 2017

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration at the Wright Museum Rev. Dr. C.T. Vivian, civil rights icon, featured speaker The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History presents its annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration on Monday, Jan. 16, from 9 am – to 6 pm. Traditionally the museum’s busiest day of the year, this year’s MLK Day is preceded by the 17th annual Commemorative Breakfast at 8 am featuring special guest speaker, civil rights icon and 2013 Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient Dr. C.T. Vivian.

Dr. Vivian’s most notable accomplishments include being a trusted advisor to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., serving on a team of religious advisors to President Barack Obama during his successful 2008 campaign, acting as an advisor to foreign heads of state, addressing the United Nations, and serving as national director of affiliates and strategist for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC).

The Wright’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration includes children’s workshops, arts and crafts, musical performances, storytelling, video tributes, and dis-

can be purchased online at TheWright.org, by calling (800) 838-3006, or at the museum during normal business hours.

Discounted group tickets are available for $30 each when purchased in groups of 10, and all breakfast tickets include admission to MLK Day activities at the museum.

Doors open at 7 am and breakfast will be served promptly at 8 am in the museum’s Ford Freedom Rotunda. Valet parking will be available.

Dr. C.T. Vivian plays of MLK and Coretta Scott King artifacts. Special events include “The 1967 Revolutionary MLK: Where Do We Go From Here?” lecture and book signing with Dr. Derrick White, Dartmouth College visiting associate, African and African American studies, as well as the exhibition “I See Me: Reflections in Black Dolls,” on display now and included with museum admission. It features an array of black dolls from local and national collections dating from the late 19th century to the present, including babies, fashion dolls, handcrafted, art dolls and the largest collection of Leo Moss dolls ever assembled.

Tickets for the 17th annual Commemorative Breakfast featuring Dr. C.T. Vivian are $35 and

W E

All Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration activities and exhibitions are included with museum admission, which is $8 for adults (ages 13-61), $5 for sen­ iors (62+) and youth ages (3-12), and free for museum members and children under 3. All events take place at the museum, located at 315 East Warren Ave. in Detroit’s Cultural Center.

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Be King.

A new generation now holds the torch ignited by his dream. Comcast NBCUniversal celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day by saluting him and all of those who work together to love and serve one another and the world.

Personality rights and copyrights of Dr. King are used with the permission of The Estate of Martin Luther King, Jr., Inc. Represented by Greenlight. © 2017 Comcast. All rights reserved.

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DOCTOR

January 11-17, 2017

Dr. Carmen McIntyre 2016 seemed to be a rough year for celebrities from my generation: David Bowie, Alan Rickman, Glen Frey, Maurice White, Vanity (Denise Matthews), Gil Hill, Merle Haggard, Prince, Patty Duke, Muhammad Ali, George Michael and Carrie Fisher all passed away, to name a few.

Though I don’t always want to admit it, I’m getting older, and many of these people had chronic health conditions such as heart disease or cancer.

What stands out to me, though, are those who have struggled with mental health disorders, including alcohol and drug addiction, depression or bipolar disorder, and left us “too soon”.

Prince died of an opioid overdose at the age of 57, joining a list of celebrities who have died in recent years from addiction: Michael Jackson (50), Whitney Houston (48), Heath Ledger (28), Philip Seymour Hoffman (46), Amy Winehouse (28), Cory Montieth (31), Lisa Robin Kelly (43), and Chris Kelly/Kris Kross (34).

Unfortunately, drug overdose death rates continue to climb in the U.S. In 2014 there were over 25,000 deaths due to prescription drug overdose in the U.S., and another over 15,000 overdose deaths from cocaine and heroin nationally. Alcohol reportedly kills over 110,000 people in the United States each year, including an average of 6 alcohol poisoning/overdose deaths a day.

In that same year, there were over 42,000 suicide deaths in the U.S. with over 830,000 emergency department visits for self-inflicted injuries. 40 million adults suffer from anxiety disorders, and 15 million adults battle depression each year. 29 million adults have diabetes, and we all know how deadly that can be if untreated.

Yet mental health disorders, including alcohol and drug addictions, are treatable. They are complex disorders that affect brain function and behavior, and effective treatments address all of the person’s needs. Help is available which can dramatically improve a person’s quality of life. Treatment includes talk therapy, medications, family and legal services, medical services, educational and vocational assistance.

While stigma and ignorance have kept many people away from talking about their troubles and seeking help, many other celebrities have gone public with their mental health conditions and treatment: Demi Lovato, Kesha, Lady Gaga, Selena Gomez, Miley Cyrus, Gwyneth Paltrow, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Ellie Goulding, Jon Hamm, Hayden Panettiere, Serena Williams, Delonte West, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Lamar Odom, Metta World Peace (Ron Artest) and Larry Sanders.

Patty Duke and Carrie Fisher were both frank about their struggles, and strong advocates for treatment. Carrie Fisher was also a strong supporter of Mental Health First Aid, a program designed to teach the skills to recognize and respond to the signs of mental illness and substance use.

As we say goodbye to 2016 and welcome 2017, let’s take a moment to look into ourselves, and those close to us. This is a time for resolutions, and many resolve to eat better and get their bodies in shape. I ask you all to resolve to pursue healthy minds and spirits as well as bodies. Talk to someone if you are struggling. Approach a loved one if you think they are struggling. Look into a local Mental Health First Aid course: https:// www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/ cs/take-a-course/find-a-course/ And as always, the Detroit Wayne Mental Health Authority 24/7 helpline is there when you need it: (800)241-4949.

Dr. Carmen McIntyre is the Chief Medical Officer at Detroit Wayne Mental Health Authority. If you have a question for Dr. McIntyre, please submit it to AskTheDr@dwmha.com

2017 Men of Courage Forum

By Alisha Dixon

Men of Courage will hold its 2017 forum in Chicago on Jan. 16, Martin Luther King Day, for 65 black men to come together to change how they view themselves and how others see them.

According to MOC organizers, the forum “connects a diverse group of black men from local communities with a growing list of renowned advocates and celebrities. Together, these groups seek to support one another and align to build relationships in an effort to help improve the perception of African American men in society. Participants are involved in numerous storytelling, design thinking, commitment, and action-mapping activities.”

Many notable black men will attend the Chicago forum including former Detroit mayor Dave Bing, Detroit Lions player DeAndre Levy, New York Times best selling author and activist Shaka Senghor, founder of Global Automotive Group, Bill Packard, Michigan State Representative Jewell Jones and more.

Men of Courage, founded in 2014, was created as a collaboration between the Ford Motor Company Fund, Big Sean and former mayor of Detroit, Dave Bing to change the narrative about black men.

Manager of multicultural and community engagement for the Ford Motor Company Fund Shawn Wilson says the organi-

zation is a great opportunity for dialogue among African American men who often have diverse backgrounds and experiences.

“Black men are very diverse, which is why Big Sean and Mayor Bing are seen as generational bookends that could bring a bright group of black men together. We bring them together and we take them through a three-part process of one; storytelling and vision boarding where they create the vision of who they and black men actually are, and what success looks like,” Wilson said.

“We wanted to help challenge and ultimately advance the narrative of African American men in the United States, primarily using storytelling as a powerful tool because we know that storytelling helps to invoke empathy. It changes the way you view and think about African American men, which then changes the way you act towards them. The second piece was to find solutions and publish solutions to help. And fianlly, action mapping and that’s where they focus on solutions and make commitments to carry out those solutions.”

In addition to hosting the Chicago forum, the organization has created a virtual toolkit that can be downloaded on the organization’s website. For those unable to attend, MOC encourages them to register and host gatherings in their homes, churches or schools on MLK Day to in-

troduce the Men of Courage ToolKit. Nationally, MOC expects thousands of black men to come together virtually as part of the forum. MOC national ambassadors have been working tirelessly around the country to get men to participate. They include, Big Sean, Dave Bing, Van Jones, Hill Harper, Troy Carter and Jerome Bettis.

Wilson said the ToolKit will walk men through the three steps of storytelling, execution and vision boarding in order for them to tell what it is they want the true narrative of black men and success to be.

“We really want to take over media, social media and digital media and really bombard the airwaves and the digital media with positive images of black men working together and creating strategies, laughing, crying and having fun. Showing black men coming together for solutions ... that’s the first step,” Wilson said.

“The second step is to really help to better reflect Martin Luther King and what he was all about on his day. If you think about it, those three pieces are what he embodied. He was a great storyteller, a man of vision and more importantly he was a man of action and that’s what we’re hoping to replicate. Finally, we’re hoping to come up with solutions nationally and really empower black men to take control of their narrative and their future.”

To participate in MOC virtually, visit menofcourge.com/toolkit.

Quicken Loans 2017 Meridian Winter Blasts announces stellar lineup Thirteenth annual festival brings all new winter-themed fun The 2017 Meridian Winter Blast presented by Quicken Loans will feature new entertainment stages, local food and winter-themed attractions. The festival will begin during the last weekend of the North American International Auto Show on Friday, Jan. 20 through Sunday, Jan. 22 at Campus Martius Park in downtown Detroit. Meridian Winter Blast hours are Friday, 4 to 11 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Brand new stages added to the festival this year will amp up the excitement and feature nearly 50 top Detroit music artists. The all-new Movement Stage at the Bedrock Ice Bar will host DJs from Detroit’s Movement Electronic Music Festival on Friday and Saturday night from 8 to 11 p.m. Catch DJ Thornstryker and DJ Ryan Richards spinning electronic music while surrounded by an entire bar carved out of ice.

The DTE Energy Family Stage will appeal to both children and adults alike with an entirely new acoustic set in the evening just for adults. During the day, families can enjoy juggling acts, magic and science shows, musical performances and more inside the Marketing Associates Tent on Woodward Avenue. At night, the stage will host acoustic performers, creating a coffee house vibe on Friday and Saturday.

Enjoy the diverse sounds from the Michigan Lottery Stage and the Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort Stage, featuring new and returning performers. Guests can enjoy new performers, including AwesomeR, Bricktown Station and Casey Cooper as well as must-see returning musical acts from Nina & the Buffalo Riders, Thornetta Davis Band, Stone Clover, 75 SKYrise, Paul Lamb and more.

All New Meridian Winter Blast Attractions An array of more than 60 delicious food

options from nearly a dozen local restaurants and food trucks will be offered to festivalgoers. Food trucks will be parked outside Hard Rock Café and all along Monroe Street. The cuisines will range from southern comfort food to hearty, south of the border options.

See attached document for participating food truck and restaurant menus.

The new Meridian Winter Slide will take thrill-seekers to the next level of adventure. The 30-foot high slide will have four pitch-black tubes that will drop riders at speeds of up to 20 mph. Two of the tubes will be at a 40-degree angle to bring excitement to the more daring festivalgoers and two will be at a 30-degree angle for children and those feeling a bit less adventurous. This exciting new attraction is sure to be one of the main focal points of this year’s festival.

Festivalgoers can check out the Meridian Winter Blast Ice Garden to see up-

coming Warner Bros. films carved in ice!

The following films will be featured: THE LEGO® BATMAN MOVIE, KONG: SKULL ISLAND; KING ARTHUR: LEGEND OF THE SWORD; and WONDER WOMAN. Additionally, LEGO® Batman, Robin and Batgirl will be making an appearance Saturday, Jan. 21 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Detroit Interactive Sports Zone Cool Additions The recently announced all-new Detroit Interactive Sports Zone has picked up some star power. In addition to the interactive exhibits taking place in the Marketing Associates Tent on Woodward Avenue, the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Pistons will bring special alumni guests for appearances and performances throughout the weekend.

Detroit Red Wings alumni will join the festival on the DTE Energy Family Stage for photos and autographs. From 4:30 to

See WINTER BLAST page B-2

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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Local educator debuts empowerment book catered to the advancement of women Local inspirational author, video-blogger and educator Stephanie Burrage will debut her book, Jewels for Every Woman: A Guide to Queendom Living at the Redford Library located at 25320 W. 6 Mile Rd. in Redford on Saturday, January 21, 2017 from 1-4:30 pm.

“Dr. Stephanie Burrage is simply amazing,” says Tayla Parker, CEO and Founder, Dope Wives. “We invited her to speak at our 1st Dope Wives Retreat and the audience was left in awe. Her delivery and ability to make scripture into its most practical form is what makes her presentation very unique. The attendees could not stop speaking about how much they enjoyed her and the impact that now challenges them to be intentional in their marriage. I have invited Dr. Stephanie to come back to this year’s Dope Wives retreat and I have no doubt that it will once again be a tremendous blessing for all of us.”

(NNPA Newswire Columnist)

After a very tough 2016, we should all look forward to 2017. Last year’s economy was challenging. Here in Chevy Chase, Maryland, one of the wealthiest communities in the nation, high-end department stores closed their doors in mass. Families, even the rich ones, cut back on spending; they have no faith in our future economy.

However, that is going to change this year. The stock market is still carrying the surprising “Trump Bump” and will soon soar over the 20,000 mark. In contrast to 2016, investors will soon have a new confidence. That means happier days ahead. Those shuttered stores will reopen under new banners and new surge in spending will drive employment levels up.

Burrage uses her energetic spirit to empower women to lead their best and most fulfilling life by teaching women how to walk in their Queendom. She is the founder of Queendom Living a movement for women to purposefully live their best lives. Burrage is also the host and creator of Wednesday Wisdom Word a weekly video blog on Facebook and YouTube sharing insight and encouragement used to inspire todays woman.

Jewels for Every Woman was inspired

by Burrage’s life experiences as a wife, mother of three children including a child diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes before she was one years old. She did this while managing a teaching and leadership career in education and supporting other women and couples, with her husband, for over 25 years. While

Stephanie Burrage Burrage has experienced success it was the challenging moments in her life that provided her the opportunity for growth and taught her those important life lessons that she shares in the book.

“We will all have some wins and losses,” says Burrage. “It is in the challenging times where I learned how to improve and adjust for the next time. It is in the losses where my faith grew.”

The book launch is free and open to the public. Jewels for Every Woman is available for purchase for $15. Attendees to the book launch can pre-order a signed copy by visiting queendomliving. com. An RSVP is encouraged and can be sent to DrSB@queendomliving.com.

Please send requests for media interviews, booking presentations, book signings and speaking engagements for Stephanie Burrage to DrSB@queendomliving.com or by calling (734) 787-8553.

Racial Healing Dr. Gail C. Christopher America’s Wire Writers Group

Just five days before inauguration of Donald Trump as the country’s 45th President, millions of Americans on January 15 will celebrate the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. For many, memories of the civil rights icon revolve around his momentous “I Have a Dream” speech from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, calling for an end to racism and to the expansion of economic opportunities.

Dr. King’s brilliance - strategic leadership of the Civil Rights Movement to unparalleled courage and integrity – is often over shadowed by the speech that scholars hailed as the 20th century’s top public address in the U.S. Unfortunately, Dr. King’s dream of equality articulated in 1963 remains unfulfilled in many communities today – a reality affirming the continued structural inequities and bias spurring widespread disparities in social conditions and opportunities for people of color.

Think about Dr. King’s powerful vision. “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.” That’s the America many of us strive to create, but clearly, despite progress in some areas, we are still seeking to realize.

Furthermore, the vitriolic, divisive rhetoric and raw emotions raging throughout the past year pulled the scab off a persistent wound in the American psyche, bringing the issue of race front and center and exposing the divides in our society. What does the nation do about it? How do we move forward on a path toward racial equity that facilitates racial healing, dismantles structural racism and lifts vulnerable children on a path to success?

To-be-sure, America has made progress over the decades. Government and the courts enacted statutes and rulings ranging from Brown v. Board of Education to the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to the Fair Housing Act of 1968 that outlawed public discrimination, while purportedly providing equal opportunities. Yet, these actions only addressed the effects of racism, not its core foundation. Time has demonstrated that government and courts can enact and uphold laws, but they don’t change hearts, minds and souls or address the root cause of racism.

Racism is rooted in the false belief in a human hierarchy, an antiquated taxonomy of the human family, which has fueled structural racism and conscious and unconscious bias throughout U.S. culture with a perception of inferiority or superiority based on race, physical characteristics or place of origin. Whites are placed at the top and all other racial groups in descending order.

This absurd notion, which science has soundly discredited, was used to justify colonization and enslavement for centuries. And the false ideology fuels white supremacist movements and other overt expressions of racial and ethnic hatred and bigotry.

The United States has witnessed how the belief manifests in many ways. From coast to coast, communities experience disparities for people of color in health, education, employment and housing.

Furthermore, high profile police

shootings involving people of color have fueled the perception that the criminal justice system is unfair and bias. In fact, a study by University of California, Davis anthropologist Cody Ross found “evidence of a significant bias in the killing of unarmed black Americans relative to unarmed white Americans, in that the probability of being black, unarmed, and shot by police is about 3.49 times the probability of being white, unarmed, and shot by police on average.”

It appears Dylann Roof, the convicted murderer of nine worshippers at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, SC, was motivated by a belief that he was somehow superior to blacks and others. Friends said Roof complained that "blacks were taking over the world" and he vowed to start a race war Dr. King understood that the belief in racial hierarchy created barriers to our country’s capacity to fulfill the promise of our democratic ideals. It is time for us to fully eliminate this hierarchy of human value and jettison the antiquated concept. Only then can all of our children be embraced not because of the color of their skin or other physical characteristics, but by their innate essence, their humanity.

Our country needs racial healing and a sustained effort to avert the racism that influences public and private systems, practices and policies. The racial healing can move us toward one another in a spirit of wholeness and love. A transformative, positive change can come from this shift in our individual and collective consciousness and the resulting actions we take on behalf of ourselves, our children and future generations of our human family.

Communities, organizations and individuals will acknowledge that deep, racial divides still exist and must be overcome and healed. They will commit to engaging representatives from all racial, ethnic, religious, gender, and identity groups in genuine efforts to increase understanding, improve communications, caring and respect for one another and the perceived other.

These actions will help create a new narrative that refutes the belief in a hierarchy of human value and replaces it with the scientifically proven assertion that we’re all descendants of one human ancestry and guided by an inalienable right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Our country’s make-up has changed significantly since its founding, and the demographic changes are continual. Immigration and birth rates, among other contributing factors, are altering the face of communities. Already, children of color represent the majority of children in the country, and far too many are in poverty.

For these new challenges, America needs a new reality, grounded in racial healing so that the work of ending racial disparities can boldly move forward and all children have opportunities to succeed. It is time to focus our energy, resources and discourse on eliminating the false ideology of a hierarchy of human value so we can cultivate and grow what must be valued most: our common humanity.

(Dr. Gail C. Christopher is a WKKF senior advisor and vice president for TRHT. To schedule print or broadcast interviews with Dr. Christopher, please

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Beyond the Rhetoric: 2017 Is Going to be Fantastic!

By Harry C. Alford

Jewels for Every Woman is a message of hope meant to inspire and empower women to live their best lives. The jewels found in the book will teach women to rise above the obstacles of life using faith, compassion, love and confidence to guide their daily path.

January 11-17, 2017

Politics in 2016 was downright ugly.

The worst I have seen in my life. But in November, it came to a head and burst.

We are now picking up the pieces and a new atmosphere is forming throughout the nation. Foreign plants are moving back to the United States bringing thousands of new, good paying jobs.

The job market is active, especially, with all the political positions opening due to the change in administration.

Foreign affairs have been a little shaky. For the first time in history, our current Secretary of State lambasted our closest ally, Israel, in a formal meeting at the United Nations and the White House agreed with him. This betrayal is very shocking. However, our incoming President-elect Donald Trump publicly stated to Israel to “stay strong,” as he will be sworn in on January 20, ushering in a better relationship with that country. Enemies of Israel beware!

For the first time in modern history, our Navy does not have one aircraft carrier out to sea. This is significant. Morale is slipping and that is a scary state of affairs. It is critical that our military returns to its previous position. If a nation like ours is not prepared for war and its leadership is unmotivated then war is certainly what we will get.

It appears that Congress is going to renew its commitment to our military via more funding and recruitment. The sooner this is done, the better America will be.

The public is becoming increasingly optimistic. I could tell from most people this season saying “Merry Christmas” as opposed to “Happy Holidays.”

It is so nice to hear; people proud of their religion as opposed to being politically correct. If you love Christ, shout it out!

Once again jobs are available big time in the federal government workplace. This happens every four to eight years as the new administration pushes out the political hires from the previous administration and fills those positions with their new crew. This is no secret! If any of you want to look or try it, go on the Internet, and apply for a good paying government job with 30 days sick leave and 30 days vacation — that’s sixty days off with pay! You can apply for a “non-career” position with the Trump Administration online at https://apply.ptt.gov/.

These jobs aren’t just in Washington, D.C. Every city has a noticeable amount of federal jobs. Many of the new bosses will be looking for Republicans. There aren’t too many Black Republicans and that could be a good thing. For Blacks that means there is a shorter “line.” Opportunities will be exponentially greater. There are nearly a dozen regions in the federal government structure (depending on the agency or department). Within each region are various district offices located throughout the nation. Zero in on the district you want to apply for work. Indicate that on your resume or the online application. These job opportunities will fill up within the next three to five months. Get busy!

Section 3 of the HUD Act has been in existence since 1968. This is a job-training program for residents of public housing or people living under the poverty level. It is the best job training program the federal government has put on the “books.” However, no administration has ever implemented it. Something tells me that this administration will be the first one to implement this law. Google “Section 3 of the HUD Act” and learn about this.

Any project with HUD funding is supposed to follow this program. They aren’t now, but that is about to change.

Yes, indeed, the times are changing for the better. Those who believe should go for it and enjoy this new ride. This year is going to be the best year for those who believe it.

Mr. Alford is the co-founder, president and CEO of the National Black Chamber of Commerce®. Website: www.nationalbcc.org Email: halford@ nationalbcc.org.

Winter blast 5:30 p.m. Saturday, it’s former goaltender Manny Legace and on Sunday from 3 to 4 p.m., it’s defenseman Jason Woolley.

Meanwhile, at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, also on the DTE Energy Family Stage, the Detroit Pistons will feature a performance and autograph session from their fabulous Dance Team. On Sunday, Pistons legend Rick Mahorn will be on hand at 1:15 p.m. for photos and autographs.

The hockey competition is back! Meridian Winter Blast challenges festivalgoers with a hockey shot competition presented by Great Expressions Dental Centers (GEDC). Throughout the weekend, attendees will have a chance to shoot and score cool prizes from GEDC, Winter Blast and the Detroit Red Wings.

The grand-prize winner will win a choice of a free set of Invisalign braces or a dental care package from GEDC valued at $5,000. The competition will take place on the ice rink at 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and at 5 p.m. Sunday.

NAIAS Partnership The new festival dates are a result of a partnership with the North American International Auto Show, as both events will promote the other in efforts to maximize tourism and positive impact to downtown Detroit. The key aspect of the collaboration will feature free, same day admission to Meridian Winter Blast for any patron of the NAIAS.

Returning Favorites Festival patrons can participate in free ice skating at Campus Martius Park for the entire three days of the festival, courtesy of St. John Providence. Meridian Winter Blast is the only weekend all year when visitors can skate for free.

Attendees can also enjoy live skating exhibitions and performances by local skating clubs throughout the weekend.

Returning as a festival favorite is the MetroPCS Zipline Adventure. Partake in the longest, fastest mobile zipline in Michigan that allows two riders to zip simultaneously on separate lines, 34 feet above the ground. In just 20 seconds, this high-speed experience will take festivalgoers’ breath away as they soar through the crisp air and take in panoramic views of Campus Martius from high atop Cadillac Square, the new location of this activity.

From page B-1 Attendees can stay toasty and warm by one of the many marshmallow roasting stations located throughout the festival, courtesy of Detroit Downtown Development Authority. Marshmallow and s’more kits will be available for purchase to enjoy a tasty treat with family and friends.

Admissions and Charitable Giving Meridian Winter Blast once again is teaming with Matrix Human Services and Chemical Bank to help those in need during the winter. Admission to the 2017 Meridian Winter Blast is $3 or three canned goods or other non-perishable items.

Parking Made Easy Enjoy Meridian Winter Blast without the confusion and hassle of parking. Festivalgoers can park at a recommended lot for affordable rates and close proximity to the festival. Take advantage of $10 weekend parking rates starting at 4 p.m. on Friday, all day Saturday and Sunday at each of the following lots.

• 1 Campus Martius Building Parking Garage, located at 1188 Farmer St. • Kennedy Square Parking Deck, 719 Griswold St. • The Z Deck, 1234 Library St. Spend the Night in the City Stay downtown and enjoy the city while attending Meridian Winter Blast. Organizers are offering festival patrons the opportunity to “Spend the Night in the City” at the Westin Book Cadillac Hotel Detroit, located just two blocks from the festival, at special discounted weekend rates of $169 per night. The iconic Westin Book Cadillac provides a warm and refreshing retreat after a long day of festivities. Festivalgoers must book by Jan. 13 to receive this rate.

Meridian Winter Blast could not happen without the generous support of its sponsors, which include: Meridian, Quicken Loans, Allied Marketing, Bedrock Detroit, Chemical Bank, Cricket Wireless, DEGC /Detroit DDA, Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Pistons, DMCVB, DTE Energy, Ilitch Holdings, Made in Detroit, Marketing Associates, MetroPCS, Michigan Lottery-Official Advertiser, Pepsi, Redico, Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort, St. John Providence, US Park and the Westin Book Cadillac.

Winter Blast is Detroit’s celebration of winter experiences, dining, music and family fun held in downtown Detroit’s Campus Martius Park from Friday, January 20 through Sunday, January 22.

Originally created as the backdrop for Super Bowl XL, the festival attracted more than 75,000 people last year. For additional information, visit www.winterblast.com or call (248) 541-7550.

community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

January 11-17, 2017 Page B-3

Pure Michigan celebrates winter with ad campaign, new website Pure Michigan is celebrating the snow with the launch of its winter advertising campaign and the newly redesigned michigan.org website. Through a targeted digital advertising campaign and the revamped michigan.org site, the winter campaign will feature the brand’s iconic imagery while highlighting the activities that make Michigan a premier winter destination in the region.

dia ads – will also be running in these markets, directing people to the Snow Day landing page at michigan.org/winter.

Billboards featuring Grand Haven, Marquette and Munising will be on display in outof-state markets as well as instate markets of Detroit, Grand Rapids, Flint, Lansing and Saginaw. Nine industry advertising partners also have in-state and regional radio ads featured as part of this year’s winter campaign. Those partners are Ski Michigan, Detroit, Gaylord, St. Ignace, Keweenaw Peninsula, Frankenmuth, Mount Pleasant, Muskegon and Manistee.

“We are passionate about winter here in Pure Michigan, and this campaign is designed not only to inspire, but also to highlight the activities and destinations that can only be enjoyed during a winter getaway in Michigan,” said Dave Lorenz, Vice President of Travel Michigan, part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

The new michigan.org website is part of an ongoing initiative by Travel Michigan to evolve the Pure Michigan campaign into activity, or interest-based marketing, in addition to its traditional marketing strategies. The new site will also allow for a better user experience with more personalization, extended integration with social media assets and an overall experience more aligned with the Pure Michigan brand.

Today’s launch is just the beginning and work will be ongoing to continue to build out the site. Content still to come includes additional passion pages, more videos, new social media feeds and original content as well as additional tools available to trip planners on the

The total budget for the winter advertising campaign this year is $1,462,302, including $244,457 from the winter advertising partners.

site. Over the next few months the personalization aspects of the site will also begin to be rolled out.

“We are very excited about the new michigan.org and the experience it will provide our users, regardless of what stage they are at in their trip planning experience,” Lorenz said. “This is the first phase of what is a work in progress and we anticipate there will be many adjustments made in the coming weeks and months as we utilize new technology and better understand the site users’ needs.”

Travelers and travel industry partners are again being encouraged to use the hashtag #puremichigansnowday on social media to highlight winter offerings and adventures across Michigan. A new social media feed on michigan.org/ winter will showcase images shared using this hashtag on the new website. Pure Michigan will also host a winter sports-themed Twitter chat tomorrow, Wednesday, January 11 from noon-1:00 p.m. Follow @PureMichigan on Twitter or use the #PureMichiganChat to

­participate.

The broadcast and digital winter advertising campaigns also launch this week, featuring the television spots Snow Day and Chance of Snow and radio spots Snow Day, Snow and 32 Degrees in markets including Chicago, Ill.; Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton and Toledo, Ohio; Green Bay and Milwaukee, Wisc.; Indianapolis, Ft. Wayne and South Bend, Ind.; Minneapolis, Minn; and Southern Ontario. Targeted digital advertising – including rich media banner ads and paid social me-

Michigan is home to more than 6,500 miles of snowmobile trails, 3,000 miles of cross country skiing trails and is second in the nation for ski areas boasting everything from family friendly bunny hills to the tallest vertical drop in the Midwest at Mt. Bohemia. In 2015, winter tourism generated $3.3 billion in traveler spending in Michigan.

Pure Michigan is a brand representing business, talent and tourism initiatives across Michigan. These efforts are driven by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, which serves as the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business growth, jobs and opportunity with a focus on helping grow Michigan’s economy.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Alpha Rho Omega Chapter Commemorates 109 Years of Service with Founders’ Day Celebration Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Alpha Rho Omega Chapter in Detroit commemorates 109-years of international sisterhood and service with special keynote speaker and Emmy Award Winning Television Anchor, Monica Kaufman Pearson Detroit, MI., December 15, 2016 – Alpha Rho Omega, the largest Detroit chapter of the internationally recognized Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, IncorporatedÒ will hold its Founders’

Day celebration on Saturday, January 21, 2017 at the Detroit Marriott Hotel, Renaissance Ballroom in Detroit beginning at 11:30 a.m. Along with members of Alpha Kappa Alpha from across the region, the event, which commemorates the sorority’ s 109-years of global service and commitment to community enhancement, will bring together area businesses, community leaders, local government officials and representation from other fraternal organizations.

Keynote speaker at the luncheon will be Emmy-award winning television anchor, Monica Kaufman Pearson. Monica is the first woman and first minority to anchor the daily evening news in Atlanta, GA where she worked for 37-years at WSB-TV2, an ABC Affiliate. She has won over 33 Southern Regional and local Emmy awards including recognition for Closeups, a celebrity talk show.

Tickets for the luncheon are $65.00 and are available by calling: 313-964-

1572. Tickets must be purchased by January 6, 2017 to secure seating. The luncheon is open to the public.

Established in 1908, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated is the first Greek-lettered sorority incorporated by African-American college women. With over 283,000 college-trained members and 986 chapters globally bound by the bonds of sisterhood, the Sorority has implemented programs of service impacting countless lives.

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

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

e-mail: newsdesk@michronicle.com January 11-17, 2017

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

School choice matters for Michigan families

By Andrew R. Campanella In our country, we love to customize, whether it’s a new addition to the house or the colors and fonts surrounding our text messages. We choose everything, from our line of work to our preferred place to grab lunch (where we probably customize our lunch order). So it’s easy to understand why parents want more choices in their children’s education.

Parents understand that education options open doors for their children. Every child is unique, with distinct interests and learning Andrew R. styles. Moms and Campanella dads know that a school that might work for one student might not be a good fit for another. They know their child best and should be empowered to select the right school.

In many states, Michigan included, lawmakers have taken action to provide a more diverse variety of school choices for families.

From January 22-28, millions of Americans will raise awareness about the importance of school choice at an unprecedented 21,000 events – including more than 700 events in Michigan.

These events are planned to coincide with National School Choice Week, the largest celebration of opportunity in education in U.S. history.

For families in the Great Lakes State, National School Choice Week provides a good opportunity to review the different types of education options available to their children.

Michiganders can choose traditional public schools for their kids, and the state allows parents, with some limitations, the freedom to choose traditional public schools outside of their existing school zones. This process is called open enrollment, or public school choice.

Michigan also allows public charter schools, which are tuition-free public schools that are given the freedom to be more innovative. Magnet schools, which focus on themes such as math, science, technology, and the performing arts, are available.

In addition, the Great Lakes State is one of 41 states with a tuition-free online academy, allowing students to go to

school entirely online.

If not now, when?

Of course, parents in Michigan can also pay to send their children to private schools.

By Jesse Jackson Jr.

Finally, parents have the freedom to educate their children in the home – and more parents are homeschooling their children than ever before.

same congress that ignored your Supreme Court nominee.

Mr. President, we welcome you home [to Chicago], for your final remarks that puts an exclamation point on an extraordinary and historic presidency.

Mr. Trump’s rhetoric has raised anxiety, and his unpredictability has led us to believe he is not afraid to hit the nuclear button. Mr. President, you have the power to reduce the pressure on the nation. Hit the love and forgiveness button.

Seventy percent of Americans support school choice, and January is the time to exercise the choices available to Michigan families.

Parents who would like to explore their options, whether or not they’re happy with their children’s schools, should consider exploring in January.

National School Choice Week is a great opportunity to visit schools, ask lots of questions of teachers and administrators, and talk with other parents to see which educational options are likely to be the best fit for their kids.

Parents who begin the school choice process in January instead of waiting till summer break will have more options available to them. Depending on which options seem best, parents may need to meet deadlines for applications or scholarships, or they may want to enroll before a school starts a waiting list.

Why is this process important?

In addition to ensuring greater peace of mind, research has demonstrated that when parents actively choose the schools their children attend, or choose to educate their children in the home, high school graduation rates increase dramatically.

A student with a high school diploma will, over the course of his or her life, earn more than a quarter million dollars more than a student who has dropped out. High school graduates are far less likely to be incarcerated, and are six times more likely to participate in community and civic affairs, than individuals without high school diplomas.

Most importantly, though: school choice matters because every child in America has potential. Today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders, and when parents are empowered to customize their children’s education, just as they choose so many other things in their day-to-day lives, great things happen for kids, and for our country.

Andrew R. Campanella is president of National School Choice Week, the nation’s largest annual celebration of opportunity in education. A recognized expert on education reform, Campanella lives in Blue Mountain Beach, Florida.

With the few waning days of your presidency, that which inspired you to public service, remains a troubling problem on the Southside and west of Chicago and throughout our country.

Since the inception of this nation we have longed for your DNA and flesh and bone to be in the presidency.

In a real sense, for the errors of our ways we have longed for a man, of us, for us, and Jesse L. Jackson Jr. by us, to forgive us, on earth for the errors of our ways.

You know us better than most.

You understand the barrios, the trailer parks, reservations and the ghettos of our nation. These are the men and women whose presence is overwhelming in the nations prison system. You have witnessed and studied the unfairness of forgiveness from the government of the United States, for those of us who have done time.

We pray and hope that the dreams of your father become the dreams of our fathers. We ask you to forgive us all. With the language that Ford used to forgive Nixon. set us free. From a government that never leaves our lives. Set the captives free. Show the American people the power of emancipation. Show the American people how serious we were when we all entered public life. Show the American people and the world that America is different than the America that Mr. Trump sees.

There are [nine] days left before the next President Donald Trump will take eight more years to consider the worthiness of what remains of the lives of our fathers, sons, daughters, and mothers. If President Trump doesn't consider them, it will likely take another four to eight years for his successor, that's 16 more years until absolution.

Criminal justice reform from this right wing reactionary congress is a cruel hoax that will never happen. It's the

I also use this opportunity to educate people. Clemency does not apply to people who have paid their debt. Only the pardon power does. There is a difference. Clemency is a reprieve. The pardon power is the power to forgive under the Constitution, like Nixon got, and Secretary Hillary Clinton and General Petraeus need.

It is the power of the people to allow a person a second chance. That's why it is in the Constitution. Remember, We the People? Once a person pays their debt, they are suppose to get a receipt, that says debt paid.

Since the Civil War, it is the advent of the two party system, i.e. the Democrats and the Republicans, who have turned constitutional forgiveness into an insider's game. If it is in the Constitution it belongs to all of us, that's why it is in the people's Constitution. Some of us have even died to protect this process, the process of human absolution on earth.

We elect a person of great character to distribute mercy, forgiveness and grace. It is in the Constitution and has an affirmative commandment from the founders. “He shall grant reprieves and pardons.”

The Founders did not leave the presidency and future presidents much room.

It has never been that way in practice.

Earthly forgiveness is for everybody.

This is what we will change. Forgiveness for everybody, “on earth as it is in heaven.” I hope to write this as the beginning chapter of my new life.

Mr. President, break the bond that Democrats and Republicans have held on the forgiveness of the American people for 150 years. Our fathers, brothers and sisters, mothers, sons and daughters deserve no less. Forgiveness and the human absolution process belongs to all men. This government was so conceived under this principle. Please give our country “a new birth of freedom” and “Let freedom ring.”

Thank you for your service.

Why black women must be involved live American political satire in the Women’s March on Washington ByLong Ken Coleman This is why I finally supported the march

By Julianne Malveaux (NNPA Newswire Columnist)

“Ain’t I a Woman?” railed Sojourner Truth. “I have ploughed and planted and gathered into barns, and no man could head me! And ain’t I a woman? I could work as much and eat as much as a man – when I could get it – and bear the lash as well. And ain’t I a woman?

I’ve bourne 13 children and seen most all sold off and when I cried out with my mother’s grief, none but Jesus heard me! And ain’t I a woman?”

The similarities and differences between black and white women are captured in Sojourner Truth’s Julianne Malveaux famous December 1851 speech. She movingly talks about the men who say women should be “helped into carriages, and moved over ditches, and have the best place everywhere,” while “nobody ever helps me into carriages or over mud puddles, or gives me any best place.” Both black and white women cry a mother’s grief for the loss of a child, and both endure labor pains. Black women’s lives, while similar, are different and often disadvantaged, because they lack the privilege that white women so easily take for granted.

Thus, it did not surprise me that a White woman in Hawaii called for a “Million Women’s March” on Washington, D.C. on the day after the presidential inauguration. And it did not surprise me, when white women took up the call.

Too bad these same White women did not advocate more forcefully against the man who won the Electoral College vote.

My first inclination was to ignore this women’s march. The organizers have repeatedly struck me as tone-deaf and indifferent to the diverse needs of women.

But when I talked to Tamika Mallory, the dynamic young woman activist who was once executive director of Rev. Al Sharpton’s National Action Network, I shifted my perspective. Tamika shared that, just a few days after the initial call to march was issued, organizers reached out to her asking for help. She said they said they “needed to ensure that women of color were involved.”

Now, there are four co-chairs of the Women’s March on Washington, including African American leader Tamika Mallory, Latina activist and part of Harry Belafonte’s Gathering for Justice, Carmen Perez, a white woman entrepreneur whose T-shirts have been galvanizing, Bob Bland, and Palestinian activist Linda Sarsour. I applaud the diversity in leadership, but wonder how many women of color will turn out on January 21. Tens of thousands of women from all over the country are expected, with more than 100,000 saying they plan to be there. But many African-American women have looked askance, perhaps with distaste from the cultural appropriation of the initial organizing descriptive, “Million Women’s March,” perhaps because we recoil from the strong support white women gave the president-elect, choosing race loyalty over gender, class or personal interest.

Because some women have drawn a line in the sand and insisted on space for Black women in this march, they deserve support.

The march is to remind all watching that “women’s rights are human rights.”

Black women’s rights will be considered in this gathering because some Black women dared place themselves in an uncomfortable space (working with privileged, white women is never easy) in order to make a difference.

Information is available at https:// www.womensmarch.com/.

Donald J. Trump won’t be sworn in as the 45th president of the United States until January 20, but I already know that satirical comedy will play an important role in helping me to endure his presidency. To borrow his campaign mantra, the comedic genre is one of the things that “makes America great.” Challenging and criticizing politicos with the use of comedy isn’t new, of course. Satire has been around since Benjamin Franklin’s Poor Richard’s Almanack publication during the 1700s and stand-up comedians like Mort Sahl, Lenny Bruce and Dick Gregory were popular political and social satirists during the 1960s.

The device, however, has be- Ken Coleman come a bigger slice of Americana with popular television broadcasts like “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart,” its disciples, “Last Week Tonight” and “Full Frontal with Samantha Bee” and mainstays like “Saturday Night Live” Under heat, Trump’s razor-thin skin is covered with beads of sweat.

In a testy tirade, he took to Twitter several weeks ago to denounce actor Alec Baldwin’s depiction of him on “Saturday Night Live.” I fully expect that The Donald, in Nixonian style, will use the power and influence of the presidency to silent and punish his critics. His social media tantrums remind me that satirical comedy is neither available nor tolerated in totalitarian countries like North Korea, Russia and China.

Stephen Johnson, a Southfield native who moved to China in 2015 and is currently working as an English foreign language teacher, backs up my assertion. I posed to him a few questions this week.

Have you noticed a lack of Western satirical comedy in China?

Yes, it is obvious that there is a lack of it in Mainland China. Media isn’t used in the same way as it is in the U.S. The thought of television mocking Chinese leaders or the government for entertainment purposes is unheard of and could get a television producer in serious trouble if he or she tried it here.

Q. Are you able to watch Western TV programs such as “Saturday Night Live”?

Expats do not have easy access to regular Western television programs like “Saturday Night Live” or “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.” To access these programs, expats in China must connect to a VPN (Virtual Private Network) that masks the IP address of the computer that’s being used. Even with a VPN in place, connectivity can be slowed by China's Great Firewall — the country's Internet censorship system. Interruptions and slow connection speed are frequent. It is near impossible to watch one of these programs live.

Q. Do you think satirical comedy is important to creating healthy political discourse in America?

I do think satirical comedy is important. Although leaders and officials might disagree with the caricatures or perceived misrepresentations programs such as “Saturday Night Live” produce, they are a method of the general public to receive information that might be contrary to the party line regarding hot button political issues. If these types of programs are removed or censored from the public, Americans have less diverse methods of taking in information and questioning the truth about what is actually happening.

Well stated, Stephen.

Outgoing President Barack Obama declared several years ago, that “elections have consequences.” Fact is, Trump is our nation’s president. Let’s hope that political satire doesn’t become a casualty of consequence during his presidency. After all, it’s part of what makes America great.

community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

January 11-17, 2017

Page B-5

Toyota steers its Detroit Auto Show focus to helping the community As temperatures fluctuate this winter in Michigan, one thing for sure is snowy, icy and even cold rainy days are here through March and warm winter boots and socks are a “must have” in Michigan. To protect families from the cold, on Saturday, Jan. 7, Toyota Motor North America through its “Toyota Walk In My Boots” community outreach project and the North American International Auto Show activities, for the sixth year, stepped in to help area homeless and low-income families by providing new insulated winter boots and socks to more than 150 participants of The Salvation Army Harbor Light and Booth Family Shelter of Detroit, a homeless shelter for primarily women and single mothers and their children.

Without adequate clothing, often low-income families and people experiencing homelessness have a much higher risk than the general population of developing exposure-related conditions such as hypothermia and frostbite. “With the need greater than ever because of the cold winter months, we are blessed to have support from good corporate citizens like Toyota, who are ‘Doing the Most Good’ by raising awareness of our mission to feed, shelter and clothe those who

help one another. We want the work that is being done at The Salvation Army Harbor Light/ Booth Family Shelter to continue for years to come. And, we hope that our donation of winter boots and socks to the families will help to enrich their lives…one step at a time.”

While many programs offer winter coat giveaways, a person’s feet are often left vulnerable to freezing temperatures and even frostbite. The timing of the winter boots and socks giveaway was a comfort to many as freezing temperatures hit Michigan this week.

Alva Mason, Toyota, Ronnie McNeir of the Four Tops, Greg Jackson, owner Prestige Warren Toyota, and Kyra from TSA Booth Shelter help families try on new boots. — Andrea Stinson-Oliver photo

are less fortunate,” said Captain Jamie Winkler, director, The Salvation Army Eastern Harbor Light System.

The Salvation Army Detroit Harbor Light/Booth Family Shelter located in Detroit provides residents with emergency shelter for up to 90 days for single women and single mothers and their children who have become victims of unfortunate life circumstances such as house fire, job loss, foreclosure or domestic violence. Through the shelter they can receive

emergency assistance, case management and pastoral care and worship and special services such as utility assistance, down payment assistance toward first month’s rent, food and clothing assistance.

“At Toyota, we want to build more than just great cars and trucks,” said Alva Mason, director, Multicultural Dealer Relations and Business Strategy, Toyota Motor North America.

“We want to help build great communities; and in times like these, we must remember to

Greg Jackson, owner, Prestige Warren Toyota encouraged the families to “[not] be discouraged by where you are right now.” While Ronnie McNeir of The Four Tops told them to “keep your eye on the prize” as he sung a rendition of “Family Reunion.” McNeir also donated Black Vinyl winter coats to some of the boys at the shelter. Munson Steed, publisher of Rolling Out, and author of his new children’s book, Little Professor Skye Favorite Things, personally signed his book for all the children at the event.

It was a joyous morning as Toyota brought a ray of sunshine and warmth to the families. Toyota also donat-

ed $15,000 to The Salvation Army Harbor Light/Booth Family Shelter enabling them to continue to provide refuge for children and families in times of crisis. They also treated the families to a “Thanksgiving-style” buffet luncheon by Unique Food Management. In its sixth year, through this program, Toyota has donated over 1,000 pairs of winter boots and contributed more than $80,000 in cash just in Detroit alone.

The project has also been held in Chicago, Washington DC and, Baltimore, Maryland.

Toyota, the world’s top automaker and creator of the Prius and the Mira fuel cell vehicle, is committed to building vehicles for the way people live through our Toyota, Lexus and Scion brands. Over the past 50 years, the auto manufacturer has built more than 30 million cars and trucks in North America, where it operates 14 manufacturing plants (10 in the U.S.) and directly employs more than 42,000 people (more than 33,000 in the U.S.). Toyota’s 1,800 North American dealerships (1,500 in the U.S.) sold more than 2.67 million cars and trucks (more than 2.35 million in the U.S.) in 2014 – and about 80 percent of all Toyota vehicles sold over the past 20 years are still on the road today.

W.K. Kellogg Foundation’s Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation Enterprise, a National Day of Racial Healing Dr. Gail C. Christopher America’s Wire Writers Group

Just days before inauguration of Donald Trump as the country’s 45th president, millions of Americans on Jan. 15 will celebrate the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. For many, memories of the civil rights icon revolve around his momentous “I Have a Dream” speech from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, calling for an end to racism and to the expansion of economic opportunities.

Dr. King’s brilliance — strategic leadership of the Civil Rights Movement to unparalleled courage and integrity — is often overshadowed by the speech that scholars hailed as the 20th century’s top public address in the U.S. Unfortunate-

ly, Dr. King’s dream of equality articulated in 1963 remains unfulfilled in many communities today, a reality affirming the continued structural inequities and bias spurring widespread disparities in social conditions and opportunities for people of color.

Think about Dr. King’s powerful vision: “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.”

That’s the America many of us strive to create, but clearly, despite progress in some areas, we are still seeking to realize.

Furthermore, the vitriolic, divisive rhetoric and raw emotions raging throughout the past year pulled the scab off a persistent wound in the Amer-

ican psyche, bringing the issue of race front and center and exposing the divides in our society. What does the nation do about it? How do we move forward on a path toward racial equity that facilitates racial healing, dismantles structural racism and lifts vulnerable children on a path to success?

To be sure, America has made progress over the decades. Government and the courts enacted statutes and rulings ranging from Brown v.

Board of Education to the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to the Fair Housing Act of 1968 that outlawed public discrimination, while purportedly providing equal opportunities. Yet, these actions only addressed the effects of racism, not its core foundation. Time has demonstrated that government and

courts can enact and uphold laws, but they don’t change hearts, minds and souls or address the root cause of racism.

Racism is rooted in the false belief in a human hierarchy, an antiquated taxonomy of the human family, which has fueled structural racism and conscious and unconscious bias throughout U.S. culture with a perception of inferiority or superiority based on race, physical characteristics or place of origin. Whites are placed at the top and all other racial groups in descending order. This absurd notion, which science has soundly discredited, was used to justify colonization and enslavement for centuries. And the false ideology fuels white supremacist movements and other overt expressions of racial and ethnic hatred and big-

otry.

The United States has witnessed how the belief manifests in many ways. From coast to coast, communities experience disparities for people of color in health, education, employment and housing.

Furthermore, high profile police shootings involving people of color has fueled the perception that the criminal justice system is unfair and bias.

In fact, a study by University of California, Davis anthropologist Cody Ross found “evidence of a significant bias in the killing of unarmed black Americans relative to unarmed white Americans, in that the probability of being black, unarmed, and shot by police is about 3.49 times the probability of being white, unarmed, and shot by police on average.”

ONE DAY SALE SHOP 1OAM-1OPM FRI, JAN. 13 & SAT, JAN. 14

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

50-80% OFF

STOREWIDE + FREE SHIPPING ONLINE AT $25 VALID 1/13-1/14/17. PLUS, FREE RETURNS. EXCLUSIONS APPLY; SEE MACYS.COM/FREERETURNS

PLUS, DEALS OF THE DAY AVAILABLE ALL DAY, BOTH DAYS!

OR, USE THIS SAVINGS PASS FRIDAY OR SATURDAY UNTIL 2PM EXTRA DOLLARS OFF SELECT SALE & CLEARANCE CLOTHING & HOME ITEMS

$

1O OFF

YOUR PURCHASE OF $25 OR MORE. LIMIT ONE PER CUSTOMER.

VALID 1/13 ’TIL 2PM OR 1/14/17 ’TIL 2PM

EXTRA DOLLARS OFF SELECT SALE & CLEARANCE CLOTHING & HOME ITEMS

$

2O OFF

YOUR PURCHASE OF $50 OR MORE. LIMIT ONE PER CUSTOMER.

VALID 1/13 ’TIL 2PM OR 1/14/17 ’TIL 2PM

Excludes ALL: cosmetics/fragrances, Deals of the Day, Doorbusters/web busters, electrics/electronics, Everyday Values (EDV), furniture/mattresses, Last Act, Macy’s Backstage, rugs, specials, Super Buys, Breville, Coach, Dyson, Fitbit, Frye, Hanky Panky, Jack Spade, Kate Spade, KitchenAid Pro Line, Le Creuset, Levi’s, Locker Room by Lids, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors Studio, Michele watches, Natori, Sam Edelman, Samsung watches, Shun, Stuart Weitzman, The North Face, Theory, Tumi, Vitamix, Wacoal, Wolford, Wüsthof, Tory Burch, UGG, littleBits, 3Doodler, Movado Bold, M

by Macy’s Marketplace, athletic clothing, shoes & accessories, designer jewelry/watches, designer sportswear, gift cards, jewelry trunk shows, previous purchases, select licensed depts., services, special orders, special purchases, tech watches/jewelry/accessories, macys.com. 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 1/13-1/14/2017, EXCEPT AS NOTED. OPEN A MACY’S ACCOUNT FOR EXTRA 20% SAVINGS THE FIRST 2 DAYS, UP TO $100, WITH MORE REWARDS TO COME. Macy’s credit card is available subject to credit approval; new account savings valid the day your account is opened and the next day; excludes services, selected licensed departments, gift cards, restaurants, gourmet food & wine. The new account savings are limited to a total of $100; application must qualify for immediate approval to receive extra savings; employees not eligible.

T:10” Page B-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • January 11-17, 2017

T:21”

Martin Luther King Jr. Day The First National Holiday Honoring an African American On this day, we too embody the Real Possibilities of making the world a better place for us all. At AARP,® we are committed to uplifting and empowering future generations.

Visit aarp.org/blackcommunity

Real Possibilities is a trademark of AARP®

BUSINESS

SECTION C

January 11-17, 2017

Powered by Real Times Media

michiganchronicle.com

Enroll in the skilled trades pre-apprenticeship program

By Karen Tyler-Ruiz Executive Director, Detroit Regional Workforce Fund

Access for All, an initiative of the Detroit Regional Workforce Fund, is a pre-apprenticeship program in the construction trades. A new nine-week training class begins on Feb. 6..

There are at least five important reasons to participate in this program: • More than 91 percent of graduates find employment, and more than 66% are accepted into longer-term construction apprenticeships (such as carpentry, electrical and heavy equipment) at a time of unprecedented demand in southeastern Michigan for construction trades workers.

• Access for All is a free, nine-week (294-hour) program with a curriculum that is designed to prepare students for employment opportunities immediately following graduation.

• After completing the training, graduates are ready for immediate employment.

Karen Tyler-Ruiz • The pre-apprenticeship program is a gateway to full apprenticeships that lead to well-paying and secure jobs. The average hourly pay rate for Access for All graduates is $15.00 per hour and can increase to $28 to $36 for those who complete a construction apprenticeship.

• Application requirements are simple.

An applicant must live in Detroit, be at least 18 years old and have a valid Michigan driver’s license.

There is a wide range of participants in the nine-week training classes, but many of the students currently are unemployed or under-employed. In a recent class, one student had a strong math background, but had decided he wanted to work with his hands. Access for All was his entry into a new career. Another student was an immigrant who had worked in construction helping his father, but wasn’t aware that those skills could translate into a slot as an apprentice in carpentry while still earning wages. Again, Access for All was the answer. A third was a young man who had a criminal conviction as a result of a youthful mistake. When he disclosed this history, he was pleased to find that his conviction was not an obstacle to training for a position as an electrician.

“This program has contractors waiting for these graduates. It’s been a big success,” said Brian Kiley, co-owner of Edgewood Electric.

Edgewood Electric, Dan’s Excavating, Inc. and C.A. Hull Co., Inc. are just three of the many companies that have hired graduates of Access for All. Prospective students who are ready to enroll in the training program that begins Feb. 6 should call 313.736.5290 or register online today at http://accessforalldetroit.com.

Patricia A. Cole: The evolution of an entrepreneurial maven

By Donald James Special to the Chronicle

For four decades and counting, the name Patricia A. Cole has been synonymous with progressive entrepreneurship in the city of Detroit and beyond. For 28 years, Cole served as president and chief financial officer of Detroit-based Cole Financial Services, Inc., a company she started to provide administrative support, contract staffing and consultation, and other growth-oriented portals for corporations, governmental agencies and non-profit organizations.

Cole later started Client Focused Solutions, LLC, a company that provided human resources services and professional development initiatives to organizations. Client Focused Solutions had offices in Detroit and Atlanta.

“What I found out about helping companies and people is that in most cases, they have no idea of what they are capable of doing,” said Cole, who worked 12 years as a governmental analyst for the City of Detroit before starting her company. “Through services provided by both of my companies, we were able to assist, support and manage multiple human resources needs.”

While Cole Financial Services and Client Focused Solutions were impactful to companies and people across multiple industries, Cole made the decision to close both businesses several years ago.

“I had a pretty good run,” said

Cole, who holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Detroit. “Especially since I didn’t have a lot of experience when I started in business. However, you learn and you go, and you learn and you grow. When I decided to close my companies, it was just time to move on and change directions.”

Cole also stepped down recently from her role as chair of the Detroit-Wayne County Joint Building Authority, which owns, operates, and maintains the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center. Cole, the first and only woman to serve on the Authority, was appointed by former Detroit City Councilwoman Alberta Tinsley-Talabi and the late Councilwoman Brenda Scott. The full city council ultimately confirmed Cole, who

served 24 years before leaving the post last December.

“When I was first asked to serve, I said, ‘Are you kidding? I don’t know anything about running the City-County Building.’” recalled Cole.

“I was asked to think about it because I would be good at it. I thought about it and also asked a friend for advice. My friend reminded me that when I started my first company, I didn’t know much about running a business. The friend suggested that I take the position, which I did.”

So is Cole completely retired as an entrepreneur and civic stakeholder? She responded with a laugh, and spoke about the ventures and commitments in Detroit that are keeping

See PATRICIA COLE Page C-2

Second Annual Diversity Volume Leadership Awards redefine the power of multicultural automotive buyers Honda Accord named Top Overall Ethnic Vehicle The Second Annual Diversity Volume Leadership Awards ceremony showed the tremendous impact that ethnic car buyers have on the economy and brought awareness to the lack of diversity that still remains present in the automotive industry.

“Some 30 percent of new vehicle purchases are made by multicultural consumers but only 6 percent of dealerships are minority owned,” said Damon Lester, National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers president. “That means 18,000 dealerships exist in the USA and just 1,100 are minority owned.”

With ethnic car buyers growing at a rapid rate, the dealer body is still lacking accurate representation from minorities.

NAMAD and IHS Markit partnered to celebrate brands that are driving sales leadership with ethnic consumers while also addressing and educating

Ethnic Vehicle DVL Award. It is the most sought-after Diversity Volume Leadership honor for automotive brands dedicated to driving sales leadership with Asian, Native-American, Hispanic and African-American car buyers.

NAMAD and IHS Markit also presented awards for leadership in the following categories: Ethnic Volume Leaders by IHS Markit Regions, Volume Leaders - Millennials and Women, and Volume Leaders by Ethnic Consumer Group.

the industry about the necessity of dealer ownership increasing to reflect a diverse population during the DVL Awards on Jan. 8 at Cobo Center. The private awards ceremony was hosted by Kellie Aponte and brought together scores of top automotive industry executives.

Winners of the DVL Awards demonstrated the highest new vehicle registrations with ethnic, women and millennial consumers. This year’s awards were based on an analysis of more than 13 million personal new vehicle registrations from IHS Markit.

“The Diversity Volume Lead-

ership Awards were designed to educate the entire auto industry, including manufacturers, dealers, suppliers and automotive media,” said Marc Bland, vice-president of Diversity and Inclusion, IHS Markit.

This year, NAMAD and IHS Markit honored American Honda with the Top Overall

The best automotive brands that have dedicated marketing resources to ethnic consumers and are focused on capitalizing on the rapid growth of the industry were in attendance to collect their awards.

Overall, GM and its brands received five DVL Awards, Honda-seven DVL Awards, Toyota/ Lexus-seven DVL Awards, Fordtwo DVL Awards, Nissan-three DVL Awards and FCA-one DVL Award. It is important to note

See DIVERSITY Page C-2

business

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

January 11-17, 2017

Page C-2

Consumers to receive over $17 million, thanks to CFPB

By Charlene Crowell

Millions of consumers who were duped into paying fees for their own credit scores will soon receive more than $17.6 million, thanks to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Affected consumers can expect to receive notification letters in the mail.

TransUnion and Equifax, two of the nation’s largest credit reporting agencies, sold credit scores, credit reports and credit monitoring services to consumers even though the “credit scores” sold were not typically used by lenders to make credit decisions.

As a result, what consumers paid Charlene Crowell to these two firms was of questionable value.

As credit scores are often cited as the basis for many consumers of color to either be denied access to credit or be charged higher than average interest rates, it is likely that many will also be eligible for restitution. TransUnion must now provide restitution of $13.9 million to affected consumers, while Equifax’s cost of restitution is $3.8 million. Assessed fines on the violations will add additional costs of $3 million to TransUnion and $2.5 million for Equifax.

“TransUnion and Equifax deceived consumers about the usefulness of the credit scores they marketed, and lured consumers into expensive recurring payments with false promises,” said CFPB Director Richard Cordray. “Credit scores are central to a consumer’s financial life and people deserve honest and accurate information about them.”

Both TransUnion and Equifax are charged with violations of the DoddFrank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Financial Protection Act from 2011 to 2014 and included: • Deceiving consumers about the value of the credit scores they sold; and • Deceiving consumers into enrolling in subscription programs.

In its advertising, Equifax falsely claimed that credit scores and credit-related products were free. In the case of TransUnion, the cost was promised to be only $1. What neither made clear to

consumers was that unless the ‘service’ was cancelled during its 30-day trial period, consumers would be charged a recurring fee – usually $16 or more per month.

Additionally, Equifax violated the Fair Credit Reporting Act which requires a credit reporting agency to provide a free credit report once every 12 months and to operate a central source – AnnualCreditReport.com – where consumers can get their report. Until January 2014, consumers getting their report through Equifax first had to view Equifax advertisements – another illegal act. By law, such advertising is allowed after consumers receive their report.

Beyond the costs of restitution and fines, CFPB will now hold Equifax and TransUnion accountable for changes in the way they operate. From clearly informing consumers about the nature of the scores they are selling to consumers; to providing simple, easy to understand information on how to cancel the purchase of any credit-related product, and ending billing and collection payments for any recurring charge once a her busy these days. One such venture involves Cole leading a joint endeavor consumer cancels the service. connected to the downtown Paradise The two final enforcement require- Valley Cultural & Entertainment District ments are probably the most important Project. of all: The venture will facilitate the com1. Before enrolling a consumer in any plete redevelopment of a building that credit-related product with a negative will ultimately become the Harmonie option feature, TransUnion and Equifax Club Hotel. Located at 311 E. Grand must obtain the consumer’s consent; River, the 36,000-square-foot boutique and hotel will feature approximately 30 guest 2. Truthfully represent the value or rooms on the lower two floors, with a theater and banquet room on the upper usefulness of products sold. levels.

“We applaud the Consumer Financial “This historic structure, built as a Protection Bureau for taking strong and social club, is ideal for a small hotel for vigorous actions against TransUnion and Equifax to protect the interests of those who want a unique cultural expeAmerican consumers,” said Chi Wu, rience while they visit Detroit,” Cole has National Consumer Law Center staff said in previous interviews. “We expect attorney. “In addition to obtaining tens the third floor banquet hall will be a faof millions of dollars in relief for con- vorite place for families and companies sumers, this consent order will protect to celebrate their biggest occasions. I’m consumers from being ripped off in the excited to be a part of this historic redefuture over deceptive credit monitoring velopment venture.” products and sales practices.”

Cole is also an active member and For more information on credit trustee of Historic Second Baptist scores, visit CFPB’s web at http://www. Church, located in downtown’s Greekconsumerfinance.gov/about-us/blog/ town. In her role as trustee, Cole’s what-you-need-know-understanding- broad financial acumen has been vitally why-offers-your-credit-score-are-not-all- important and has proven to be a blessing to the 180-year-old church’s busisame/. ness/financial matters.

Charlene Crowell is the communicaAdditionally, Cole sits on the Detroit tions deputy director with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be Riverfront Conservancy board, to which reached at Charlene.crowell@responsi- she was appointed by the organization’s former CEO, Faye Nelson. Cole is also in blelending.org. the second year of serving on the City of Detroit’s Human Rights Committee, appointed by Mayor Mike Duggan.

Patricia Cole

From page C-1 formal Network (WIN), a Detroit-based organization she started 25 years ago.

The organization’s mission is to inspire and empower women socially, economically and educationally.

Cole is excited about WIN’s upcoming event in March. The event will bestow the honor of “The Most Influential Women in Metro Detroit” on deserving women in the region. The gala will be held Saturday, March 25, 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at the Doubletree Hotel in downtown Detroit.

“Every March for Women’s History Month, we recognize, honor and said thank you to a number of black women who make valuable contributions,” explained Cole. “Since WIN began, we’ve probably honored over 550 women.

Our goal this year is to honor 25 more women, which will coincide with our 25 years as an organization.”

Cole, a native Detroiter, vows to always be involved in various projects that empower the Motor City and its people, especially minorities.

“I live in Detroit, and have always lived in Detroit,” Cole said. “Detroit still has so much potential. I love the people in this city, because every time its people get knocked down, we get right back on our feet and keep moving forward. I love Detroit!”

For more information on WIN and/or information about attending the organization’s upcoming 25th anniversary event, please call 313.570.7516.

Cole is ultra-active with Women’s In-

Diversity that several of the nominees that did not receive awards were very competitive contenders. Those who did not receive an award now have the insight and motivation to develop an improved strategy for 2017 and beyond.

The National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers’ (NAMAD) objective is to pursue the meaningful presence and participation of minority businesses and diverse employees across all aspects of the automotive economic sector, including: • Increasing the number of minority-owned dealerships in communities across America • Advocating workplace and supplier diversity in the automotive manufacturing environment • Supporting minority engagement in the automotive retail sales and service sectors

Bank Black!

On Thursday January 12, 2017 at 7:00pm EST, OneUnited Bank, the largest Black owned bank in America, will go live on its Facebook page from its Miami branch in a nationwide broadcast to answer questions about the #BankBlack Movement sweeping across Black America. This interactive social media event will feature Teri Williams, President & Chief Operating Officer of OneUnited Bank and Trabian Shorters, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, BMe Community, who will take questions in real time from OneUnited Bank's Facebook page with close to 100,000 followers.

For Black America, summer 2016 brought about a tangible shift in understanding the power of its $1.2 trillion in spending power. Millions were able to "move their minds" through the phenomenon of the #BankBlack Movement, answering the call for a collective show of economic force, by moving money from traditional banks to Black owned banks. In that time, millions of dollars have been moved to Black owned banks resulting in more loans and jobs for the Black community. OneUnited Bank saw $20 million in deposits, generated $130 million in loans, doubled its social media numbers and increased its national staff by 10% to keep up with the explosion of interest in Black owned banks.

President & COO of OneUnited Bank, Teri Williams comments "The

#BankBlack and #BuyBlack movements are an outgrowth of the #BlackLivesMatter movement, which has increased awareness of the importance of supporting the Black community. OneUnited is using social media to tell inspiring stories, answer questions, teach financial literacy and help everyone appreciate the power of our dollars."

Both BMe and OneUnited Bank place a strong emphasis on the importance of strengthening the Black community through initiatives that focus on economics, community development, entrepreneurship and technology. In August 2016, BMe solidified its commitment to collective economics with the re-direction of $1 million in deposits to OneUnited Bank; and a partnership was born.

"BMe Community has partnered with OneUnited Bank because we want you to have the know-how and networks for building wealth," said Trabian Shorters, Founder and CEO of BMe Community.

Recently rated one of the top 25 community banks in America for its social media presence, OneUnited Bank is committed to remaining on the forefront of the digital banking age by providing multiple platforms to engage and interact with their customers in local communities and online. The #BankBlack Live event on January 12th, 2017, 7PM EST is the first of a series of digital forums to interact with OneUnited Bank and the #BankBlack Movement.

They are committed to developing strategic relationships and advocating for the advancement of business policies and practices that ensure diversity and economic parity remain a priority in all aspects of the American automotive

From page C-1 industry.

NAMAD is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, tax-exempt organization headquartered in the Washington, D.C. area. For information on National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers visit: www. namad.org IHS Markit is the automotive industry’s leading source for market-wide insight, expertise and advanced planning solutions. With a reputation of enabling better decisions and better results for nearly a century, the world’s leading OEMs, suppliers and their transportation partners rely on IHS Markit to power growth, improve efficiency and drive a sustainable competitive advantage.

Automotive offerings and expertise at IHS Markit span every major market and, the entire automotive value chain — from product planning to marketing, sales and the aftermarket. Headquartered in London, our automotive team is part of IHS Markit’s information and analytics powerhouse that includes more than 15,000 colleagues in 150 countries, covering energy, chemical, aerospace and defense, maritime, financial, technology, media and telecommunications.

UAW-FORD’s

Section C-3

January 11-17, 2017

A place to shine: Detroit youth can experience their greatness at The Wright Museum A good doctor’s gift continues to heal and enrich our community For the love of our children: A respected physician and activist Dr. Charles H. Wright (Sept. 20, 1918 – March 7, 2002) once said: “I’d bring healthy babies into the world and I’d see them later and they would be psychologically scarred. I saw we had to do something about society—and the museum was an effort to do that.”

By Scott Talley Special to the Michigan Chronicle

Can a child’s life be saved through the discovery of history?

Dr. Charles. H. Wright certainly thought so and because of his great love for our youth, Detroit is the proud home of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.

With the Dr. Martin Luther King holiday and African American History Month quickly approaching, the “Best of Young Detroit” invites all youth to discover or rediscover the Charles H. Wright Museum, which remains a special gift that keeps giving year-round.

“The Wright Museum was founded with the expressed intention of empowering Detroit youth,” said Juanita Moore, its president & CEO. “Our founder, Dr. Charles H. Wright, wrote that the museum’s purpose was ‘ensuring that future generations, especially young African Americans, be made aware of and take pride in the history of their forebears and their remarkable struggle for freedom.’ ” Moore continued: “Quite simply, knowledge of history is not a luxury, but a necessity. It is the mission of The Wright to open minds and change lives through the exploration and celebration of African American history through art, music, storytelling, exhibitions and our wide array of over 350 educational programs each year.”

As Moore explained, at The Wright Museum history is not limited to books, or the sole property of intellectuals. Instead, history “The Wright” style is displayed and shared in creative

ways that come to life through many interactive programs and initiatives. Examples include: Family Activity Series, which combines art, music, dance and acting; Links to Science, a series of free children’s workshops designed to explore The Wright Museum’s permanent exhibit, Inspiring Minds: African Americans in Science & Technology; and Camp Africa, which has provided a free S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics) program specifically tailored to children and families that might not otherwise have the resources to enroll their children in camps during spring break and summer.

“The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History is an inspiration to both African American students and teachers alike,” said Malaika Pryor, a first grade teacher at Coleman A. Young Elementary, who attended a Kwanzaa program at The Wright Museum with her family during the holiday season. “For students who are unable to learn a great deal about their history and heritage in class, the Museum has wonderful exhibits that teach where we as African Americans descended from, the hardships that we have endured to come and live in America—both past and current—and our numerous contributions to American society.”

Pryor added: “Through the Museum, our students can see that our history is too rich and too vast to cram into one single month. The museum gives students a chance to learn about their history all year long and it gives teachers a resource to develop lessons for students at every grade level.”

Recently, the “Best of Young Detroit” came out of the cold

and took an old-school self-guided tour of The Wright Museum.

The cold day outside was quickly forgotten during a special journey through one-of-a-kind exhibits including “I See Me: Reflections in Black Dolls;” “Collect: The Power of Knowing,” which honors collectors who have persevered to show us works of art that we may have not seen on our own, especially art from the continent of Africa; and, the incomparable “And Still We Rise: Our Journey Through African American History and Culture,” a vast exhibition with more than 20 galleries, which honestly takes many visits to fully absorb.

“There’s just a lot of history and a lot of pride associated with it—that’s what I get out of the Museum,” said Ron Squires, a proud Detroiter whose art collection is highlighted in a video, which accompanies “Collect: The Power of Knowing.”

Squires added: “For the young people, it’s a chance for them to learn more about themselves and that’s what we really need to move forward.”

Along with educating and inspiring minds, The Wright Museum also provides a gathering place where youth can make lasting friendships with students from across our city and also places beyond, including our friends in Saginaw.

“The Museum enlightened me,” said Chante Smith, an eighth grader at Bridgeport Middle School in Saginaw, who spoke to the “Best of Young Detroit” while experiencing “And Still We Rise” with her mom. “You see everything people have gone through to bring us where we are today, to have the freedom we have today.”

The lessons for youth and adults are ongoing at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History located at 315 E. Warren in Detroit’s Cultural District. To learn more about the Museum including programming and exhibit information, please visit thewright.org or call 313-494-5800.

Photos courtesy of The Wright Museum

UAW-Ford’s Best of Young Detroit

January 11 - 17, 2017

Page C-4

Donovan Peoples-Jones College Basketball Edition The first week of 2017 following the holiday tournaments was a mostly quiet period for Detroit high school basketball teams with schools still closed. However, college players from Detroit high schools have already been very busy during the month of January. The “Best of Young Detroit” salutes these young men and women for “doing work” on the floor and in the classroom. Following are some recent performances on the court: Sherron Dorsey-Walker, Oakland/ Pershing, the redshirt senior guard registered 10 rebounds, eight points and four assists in the Golden Grizzlies’ 58-57 victory at IllinoisChicago on Jan. 8. His three-pointer was part of a 11-0 run, which gave Oakland a 50-45 lead.

Jeorgia Jones, Michigan-Dearborn/ Renaissance, the freshman forward tallied 13 points, three rebounds and one steal in the Wolverines’ 76-61 home loss against Madonna University on Jan. 7.

Destinee Russell, Central State/Cass Tech, the sophomore guard registered seven points, four rebounds, two assists and three steals in the Marauder’s 61-54 victory at Carver (Atlanta) College on Jan. 6.

Martez Walker, Oakland/ Pershing, the redshirt junior guard registered seven points and seven rebounds at Illinois-Chicago.

India Hawkins, Wayne State/Edison Academy, the sophomore guard registered 19 points, four rebounds and three assists in the Warriors’ 81-72 overtime loss at Walsh (Ohio) on Jan. 5.

Chris Jenkins, Detroit Mercy/ University of Detroit Jesuit, the senior wing had 18 points and 10 rebounds in the Titans’ 81-74 loss at Valparaiso on Jan. 8.

Cassius Winston, Michigan State/ University of Detroit Jesuit, the freshman point guard dished out eight assists in the Spartans’ 93-65 home victory against Rutgers on Jan. 4.

Josh McFolley, Detroit Mercy/ Western, the sophomore guard registered 10 points and five assists against Valparaiso.

DeAngelo Stewart. Indiana University – Purdue University Fort Wayne/Cass Tech, the senior wing registered six points, four rebounds and two steals in the Mastodons’ 8078 victory at Omaha on Jan. 4.

Chuck King, Wayne State/Cass Tech, the junior forward registered 11 points, four rebounds and three assists in the Warriors’ 70-64 loss at Findlay (Ohio) on Jan. 7.

Rob Edwards, Cleveland State/ Cass Tech, the sophomore guard registered 19 points, five assists and four rebounds in the Vikings’ 83-75 loss at Northern Kentucky on Jan. 7.

Kenny Carpenter, Cleveland State/ Cass Tech, the junior guard racked up eight points, two assists and one blocked shot against Northern Kentucky.

Ashley Perry, Siena Heights/ Edison Academy, the sophomore guard tallied six points, four rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block in the Saints’ 81-43 home victory against Marygrove on Jan. 7.

Josh Davis, Western Michigan/Henry Ford, the sophomore wing registered seven points and two steals in the Broncos’ 89-58 loss at Ohio University on Jan. 3.

Noah King, Ferris State/University of Detroit Jesuit, the junior wing registered 13 points and seven rebounds in the Bulldogs’ 10465 victory at Salem International (W. Va.) on Jan. 2.

Peoples-Jones flashes his skills in Texas; next stop Ann Arbor Cass Tech’s All American receiver Donovan PeoplesJones frustrated defenses throughout our city and region all season, and on Jan. 7 the nation got a small dose of his athletic prowess during the U.S. Army All-American Bowl at the Alamo Dome in San Antonio, Texas. Peoples-Jones caught two passes, including a 19-yard grab in the second quarter, which was a part of the first scoring drive for the East Team, which won, 27-17.

In the days leading up to the game, Peoples-Jones, a University of Michigan commit, earned the praise of national recruiting analysts for his practice performances, where he was paired with and against other top players from across the nation.

Also representing Detroit at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl were Ambry Thomas, a superlative defensive back and two-time state champion at Martin Luther King, who will join Peoples-Jones at Michigan; and Peoples-Jones’ Cass Tech teammate, Donovan Johnson, a Penn State commit who is expected to make his mark in the Nittany Lions’ defensive backfield, after shining on both sides of the ball for the Technicians.

SCHOLARSHIP NEWS

Mory Diane, Ferris State/ Pershing, the junior wing scored 13 points at Salem International.

Feb. 1 is an important “Detroit Promise” date for students seeking to attend a four-year college The “Best of Young Detroit” wishes to inform high school seniors and their parents that a Feb. 1 deadline is approaching for students seeking financial support to attend a four-year college through the “Detroit Promise.”

As announced by Mayor Mike Duggan on Nov. 28, 2016, the “Detroit Promise,” a program that provides two years of free college tuition to Detroit residents, has been expanded to cover four years of education for students that meet additional academic requirements. With the program expansion, Detroit residents who have attended all four years of high school in the city and have a cumulative 3.0 grade point average or higher and a minimum score of 21 on the ACT or 1060 on the SAT, have an opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree tuition-free.

Week in PSL This

(All games 4 p.m. unless noted)

BOYS

GIRLS

Friday, Jan. 13

Thursday, Jan. 12

Mumford at Renaissance Western at Henry Ford Pershing at Cass King at Edison Public School Academy (5 p.m.)

East English Village at Osborn West Side Academy at Central Communications and Media Arts (CMA) at Detroit Collegiate Prep at Northwestern Frederick Douglass at Cody Delta Prep at Denby Davis Aerospace at Southeastern

Western at Mumford Henry Ford at Cass Delta Prep at Detroit International Academy (DIA) for Young Women Denby at Southeastern Renaissance at Osborn King at East English Village Davis Aerospace at Central West Side Academy at CMA Cody at Detroit Collegiate Prep at Northwestern

Tuesday, Jan. 17 Western at Mumford Henry Ford at Cass Delta Prep at Frederick Douglass Denby at Southeastern Renaissance at Osborn King at East English Village Edison Academy at Pershing Davis Aerospace at Central West Side Academy at CMA Cody at Detroit Collegiate Prep at Northwestern

Wednesday, Jan. 18 Mumford at Cass Renaissance at Western Osborn at King Pershing at East English Village Central at CMA DIA at Southeastern West Side Academy at Cody Delta Prep at Detroit Collegiate Prep at Northwestern Davis Aerospace at Denby

Source: Detroit Public Schools Community District Athletic Department Office

The Detroit Promise pays for tuition costs not covered by grants and others scholarships students receive, and the deadline to register for financial assistance at a four-year college is Feb. 1. Eastern Michigan University, Michigan State University, University of Michigan (all campuses), Wayne State University and Western Michigan University have an unlimited number of scholarships available for “Detroit Promise” students. Other participating four-year colleges have a limited number of scholarships or different entry requirements for students. These schools include Central Michigan University, Marygrove College, Michigan Technological University, Northern Michigan University, Oakland University, Saginaw Valley State University and the University of Detroit Mercy.

Please note that the “Detroit Promise” still provides two years of free tuition to Detroit students seeking to attend a community college. To be eligible, students must live in Detroit and have spent their junior and senior years at a high school—public, private or charter— in the city. There is no minimum grade point average requirement and the registration deadline is June 30. Participating community colleges include Henry Ford College, Macomb Community College, Oakland Community College, Schoolcraft College and Wayne County Community College District.

To register and learn more about the “Detroit Promise” please visit www.DetroitScholarshipFund.com.

Your Feedback Matters The “Best of Young Detroit” welcomes feedback from our community. Please submit story suggestions and other comments to Scott Talley at stalleyassociates@gmail.com or

313-590-3686

January 11-17, 2017 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • Page C-5

The Auto Show Is Here!

PHOTOS BY ANDRE SMITH

Page C-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • January 11-17, 2017

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January 11-17, 2017

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Reflections

By Steve Holsey

It can be done One of the toughest challenges a person with a famous — even legendary — parent can face is going into the same profession. The history records are filled with offspring who failed, due largely to being overshadowed by a famous mom or dad.

Of course, in some cases, limited talent was a major contributing factor, but that’s another story.

Some exceptionally gifted daughters and sons of megastars manage to carve out their own identities and become stars or superstars in their own right.

trange relationships S

Mary J. Blige and Martin “Kendu” Isaacs

Star Jones and Al Reynolds

and marriages (in retrospect)

Tracee Ellis Ross and Diana Ross

Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley

The imagination is a powerful thing, but as the old saying goes, truth is stranger than fiction. Or, to put it in a much more casual way, “You can’t make this stuff up!”

Scandalous: Just three months after the death of Sam Cooke in 1964, Bobby Womack married his widow, Barbara Campbell. Their marriage abruptly ended in 1970 when she found out that Womack had an affair with she and Cooke’s 18-yearold daughter, Linda. Later, Linda married Bobby Womack’s brother, Cecil Womack, who later became the second husband of Mary Wells.

One of the most unexpected romances was that of Whoopi Goldberg and Ted Danson (“Cheers”). They even looked odd together. Their kissing scene in the 1992 film “Made in America” made a lot of people, both white and black, young and old, very uncomfortable. That affair led to Danson’s divorce the following year.

In one of her memoirs, Diahann Carroll revealed that in their early days, she had a lengthy affair with Sidney Poitier even though they were both married. The plan was for them to divorce their spouses and then get married.

We have known of no jealousy on the part of the parents, just pride.

THAT SURE was a messy situation on “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest” regarding Mariah Carey and the show’s producers from Dick Clark Productions, all stemming from Carey’s in-ear monitors not functioning properly (she couldn’t hear the Mariah Carey music).

Carey’s people went so far as to say “the producers set her up to fail,” and Carey herself said, “Dick Clark would not have let the artists go through that and would have been as mortified as I was.”

the mother of Michael Jackson’s third child is.

Marriages and relationships within the world of entertainment, for example, some of which we are revisiting.

Rashida Jones and Quincy Jones Think of Natalie Cole and Nat “King” Cole, Robin Thicke and Alan Thicke, Whitney Houston and Cissy Houston, Liza Minnelli and Judy Garland, Tracee Ellis Ross and Diana Ross, Michael Douglas and Kirk Douglas, Rashida Jones and Quincy Jones, Nancy Sinatra and Frank Sinatra, Gerald Levert and Eddie Levert, and Jamie Lee Curtis and Tony Curtis, among others.

By Steve Holsey

Carroll kept her end of the bargain, divorcing Monte Kay, but Poi­

It seemed unlikely that the marriage of Bill Withers and Denise Nicholas would last — and it didn’t, 1973-1974. Basically, Withers, born in West Virginia, was a country boy while Detroit-born Nicholas, who became famous on the TV show “Room 222,” was a glamorous Hollywood star. Withers reportedly wanted her to stop working but that wasn’t going to happen.

Mario Lopez’s marriage to actress Ali Landry was annulled two weeks later when she found out that he had been cheating during their six-year courtship.

Mary Wilson and Tom Jones

But Dick Clark Productions fired back, “As the premier producer of live television events for nearly 50 years, we pride ourselves on our reputation and long-standing relationships with artists...

“In very rare instances, there are technical errors that can occur with live television...To suggest that (Dick Clark Productions), as producer of music shows including the American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, New Year’s Rockin’ Eve and Academy of Country Music Awards would ever intentionally compromise the success of any artist is defamatory, outrageous and absurd.”

Diahann Carroll and Sidney Poitier tier did not, staying with Juanita Hardy. The affair ended and they both remarried.

WE ALL have our quirks and sources of irritation. Among mine are singers using bad grammar in their recordings, heard by millions.

Like the Dramatics singing, “Uh-oh girl, I think that I have FELL for you,” and Barbara George in her 1961 hit “I Know” saying, “I don’t want to be HURTED anymore.” And I cringe every time I hear a black artist mispronounce hypnotize as “hyp-MA-tize” (like the Manhattans in “Shining Star”).

“Sidney and I are now friends,” said Carroll. “That’s the lovely thing that comes with age — forgiveness and perhaps a relaxing of standards.”

Sly Stone and Kathy Silva

Jones acknowledged the affair, but said he wished she had not written about it because it brought back a painful period in the life of he and his wife. They had reconciled but Wilson’s revelation opened old wounds.

But it came as a surprise when on one of the songs on her great “Lemonade” album, Beyoncé pronounced the “w” in the word sword. The “w” is silent. Seems she would have known that, or that Beyoncé someone would have brought it to her attention before the song was released.

Eyebrows were raised and tongues wagged in 1994 when Michael Jackson married Lisa Marie Presley, daughter of Elvis Presley.

Although she said she and her new husband were “sexually active,” not many people believed her.

HALLE BERRY either just has bad luck with men or there is something wrong on her end. Every marriage and relationship goes bad; it’s just a matter of time.

See Reflections Page D-2

Speaking of memoirs, in “Dreamgirl: My Life as a Supreme,” Mary Wilson revealed that in the early 1970s she had an affair with Tom Jones and, amazingly, said she didn’t know he was married.

Whoopi Goldberg and Ted Danson

They divorced in 1996, and that same year he, perhaps even more unexpectedly, married a nurse named Debbie Rowe. They somehow had two children who don’t look the least bit interracial. No one knows who

No one has ever seen any pictures of Dennis Edwards of the Temptations and Ruth Pointer of the Pointer Sisters, perhaps in part because they were busy doing “other things,” but they had a daughter named Issa who sings with her mother today.

In her intriguing and honest autobiography, Pointer wrote, “The honeymoon of Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Edwards lasted about as long as one of our crack highs. The marriage itself, maybe six months…Dennis and I had become crack fiends, smoking almost 24/7…Maybe we could have sustained a long-term marriage as healthy as the next person’s, but the cocaine and crack smashed any prospect of that all to hell.”

Fortunately, Pointer and Edwards later got themselves together though not as a couple.

Sly Stone had what could only be described as a “spectacle wedding” on June 4, 1974 to model-actress Kathy Silva — in Madison Square Garden in front of over 20,000 fans.

Of course, the marriage was over before you could say, “Thank You For Lettin’ Me Be Myself Again,” due largely to Stone’s drug issues.

See RELATIONSHIPS Page D-2

entertainment

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

MOTOR CITY ENTERTAINMENT

CALENDAR

ANDIAMO Celebrity Showroom, the Temptations, Jan. 27-28; the Whispers, Feb. 12. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations, the Andiamo box office and by calling 586.268.3200.

DOUG E. FRESH, Al B. Sure, Slick Rick, Big Daddy Kane, Jalil and Ecstasy of Whodini, Force MD’s, Hi-Five, Cherrelle, Fox Theatre, March 17. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations.

To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

BOBBY BROWN, Alise King, Masonic Temple, Jan. 21. Tickets sold at the Masonic Temple box office and Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

FAITH EVANS, Ginuwine, Sound Board at MotorCity Casino, Jan. 23. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

RACHELLE FERRELL, Sound Board at MotorCity Casino, March 23. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

LIVE LIT Comedy Explo-

Al B. Sure sion, featuring Guy Torry, Tony Roberts, JJ Williamson, TK Kirkland, Robert Powell and Benji Brown, Music Hall, Jan. 21. Tickets available at the Music Hall box office and Ticketmaster locations.

“MARRIED But Single Too,” starring Bill Bellamy, Lisa Raye and Wendy Raquel Robinson, Music Hall Center, Feb. 16-19.

Tickets sold at the Music Hall box office and Ticketmaster locations.

To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

MAZE FEATURING FRANKIE BEVERLY, Sound Board at MotorCity Casino, Jan. 27. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone,

Lisa Raye

Rickey Smiley

call 1.800.745.3000.

Music Hall box office and Ticketmaster locations.

To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

CHRISETTE MICHELE, Ro James, Vivian Green, Fox Theatre, Feb. 14.

Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

MJ LIVE – Michael Jackson Tribute, Fox Theatre, March 3. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations.

To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

MOTOR CITY Blues Festival, featuring Willie Clayton, Shirley Brown, Bishop Bullwinkle, Sir Charles Jones, T.K. Soul, Bigg Robb, Fox Theatre, March 11.

GREGORY PORTER, Music Hall Center, Jan. 29. Tickets sold at the

RICKEY SMILEY & Friends, Sound Board at MotorCity Casino, April 20. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations.

To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

MUSIQ SOULCHILD, Fox Theatre, Feb. 25. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

January 11-17, 2017 Page D-2

37

PICKS 634 124 120 814 481 WEEK’S BEST LOTTERY

207 230 372 964 702 497 330 5316 7245 822 9 23 34 52 62 17 YOUR AD

LOOKS

GOOD IN PRINT Place your classified or display ad in the

CHRIS TUCKER, Fox Theatre, Jan. 21. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations.

To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

KATT WILLIAMS, Joe Louis Arena, Feb. 11.

Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

Call (313) 963-5522

VANESSA WILLIAMS, Sound Board at MotorCity Casino, March 9. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

CHARLIE WILSON, Fantasia, Johnny Gill, Solero, Joe Louis Arena, Feb. 17. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations.

To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

Bobby Womack and Barbara Campbell

Relationships

From page D-1

Larry Graham, former member of Sly & the Family who had fallen out with Sly and formed his own group, Graham Central Station, was certain the marriage wouldn’t last and said so in a song he recorded. He said, “As for your new hitch, music is the only love,” and “Time will tell that life with you is hell.”

Star Jones, attorney and television personality, and Terry McMillan, author, have a very unusual thing in common — both married a gay man.

Nothing wrong with being gay, but since so many other people were aware of their husbands’ sexual orientation, how come McMillan and Jones didn’t know? Or did they know and pretended not to? And why were the husbands so dishonest? (Money?) Both marriages were, as expected, short-lived.

Bringing it up to the present, Mary J. Blige’s soon-to-be-ex-husband, Martin “Kendu” Isaacs, seems to be hell-bent on squeezing everything he can from his famous wife. He already managed to find a way to extract $420 thousand from her bank account, has been withholding three of her cars, and at one time asked a judge for her to be required to pay him

Bill Withers and Denise Nicholas $130 thousand in monthly alimony.

But when it comes to doomed relationships and marriages, Halle Berry reigns supreme.

Reflections

From page D-1

The latest is her three-year marriage to actor Olivier Martinez. The divorce became final last week, as you’ve probably heard. Maybe she should just resolve to accept being single.

Kudos to the artists — including Pharrell Williams, Octavia Spencer, Chaka Khan, Questlove and even gospel superstar Yolanda Adams — for speaking out against gospel songstress Kim Burrell for publicly going off on people who happen to be gay.

“There is no room in this world for any kind of prejudice,” said Williams.

Run-D.M.C., as widely reported, has filed a $50 million lawsuit against WalMart, Amazon and other retailers for “advertising, selling, manufacturing, promoting and distributing products” in the group’s name which is trademarked.

It’s amazing that these companies would think it is okay to do such a thing.

Halle Berry and Olivier Martinez (Prince), “I Believe in You (You Believe in Me),” (Johnnie Taylor), “Strut” (Sheena Easton), “Up for the Down Stroke” (Parliament), “Foolish Little Girl” (the Shir­ elles), “Show and Tell” (Al Wilson).

Usher will not be competing on “Dancing With The Stars” as reported.

BLESSINGS to Duane Parham, Princess Hayes, Montez Miller, Greg Dunmore, Michael Wynne, Sandra McCreary, Betty Brooks, Chuck Bennett, Sherrie Payne and Linda Burgess.

BETCHA DIDN’T KNOW…that “Amazing Grace” by Aretha Franklin is the biggest selling gospel album of all time.

WORDS OF THE WEEK, from Alan Cohen: “You don’t have to explain, rationalize or defend. If something brings you pleasure, that is good enough.”

MEMORIES: “Please, Please, Please” (James Brown), “Fairweather Friend” (Johnny Gill), “Sweet Baby” (Stanley Clarke and George Duke), “Good Lovin’” (the Clovers), “I Wanna Be Your Lover”

Let the music play!

Steve Holsey can be reached at svh517@aol.com and PO Box 02843, Detroit, MI 48202.

UNIVERSAL PICTURES PRESENTS A BLINDING EDGE PICTURES/BLUMHOUSE PRODUCTION AN M. NIGHT SHYAMALAN FILM “SPLIT” JAMES MCAVOY ANYA TAYLOR-JOY BETTY BUCKLEY PRODUCED EXECUTIVE

BY M. NIGHT SHYAMALAN PRODUCERS STEVEN SCHNEIDER ASHWIN RAJAN KEVIN FRAKES WRITTEN AND JASON BLUM MARC BIENSTOCK DIRECTED BY M. NIGHT SHYAMALAN A UNIVERSAL RELEASE © 2016 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS

LOCAL LISTINGS FOR STARTS FRIDAY, JANUARY 20 CHECK THEATERS AND SHOWTIMES

entertainment

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

January 11-17, 2017 Page D-3

Play Detroit Music Experience returns in 2017

Charles “Chuck Mannie” Lewis, DJ Don Q and DJ G-Raw at the Play Detroit Music Experience.

PDM partner Chyle “Cheef” Floyd, Internet Sensation of “JuJu on Dat Beat” Zay Hilfigger, and founder of Play Detroit Music, Charles “Chuck Mannie” Lewis Detroit, brace yourself as the next Play Detroit Music (PDM) Experience is on the way. Created for the purpose of bringing awareness to the Detroit music community, the inaugural PDM Experience held in November 2016 showcased several entertainers who are making some serious noise in the music/entertainment industry including Internet sensation Zay Hilfigger creator of the dance craze “JuJu On Dat Beat.” Premier DJs G-Raw, Don Q and Mike Clark provided the sounds with performances from rising stars Carmichael 313, Kinesis and Rico Wil. The Motor City Rockerz expressed themselves through breakdancing and Candice Meeks owner of The Craft Café Detroit curated a live painting.

PDM closed out last year celebrating art in every form.

Candice Meeks, owner of The Craft Café Detroit, with a live painting at the Play Detroit Music Experience.

NOW HIRING!

The PDM Experience will be held every third Thursday of the month and promises to expose the community to the immense talent right in their own backyard. The events will unite people from all walks of life for one purpose, the love of Detroit music.

PDM has launched their blog, which will serve as an online portal for interviews ranging from up and coming talent to the city’s vast music legends and pioneers.

“After the Motown era, Detroit was never recognized for music.

We have so many musical geniuses here and we wanted to create these platforms to give them visibility and recognition. Our blog and music experience will put the spotlight on all music genres in Detroit. We will celebrate my music, your music and collectively our music,” said a PDM representative.

The next edition of the Play Detroit Music Experience will cater to hip-hop and take place on Thursday, January 17 at Truth Music Café. says founder of PDM, Charles A. Lewis, Jr.

Carmichael 313, rap artist and son of Ray Parker, Jr., takes the stage at the Play Detroit Music Experience.

www.oakgov.com/jobs

Now Accepting Nominations Submission Deadline January 27, 2017

MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

The Michigan Chronicle is now accepting nominations for the 2017 Women of Excellence awards. For the past ten years, the Michigan Chronicle has recognized local African American women who continue to break the mold and affect change in their professions and community. These women are visionaries in their given fields and inspire those around them to go beyond the norm and strive for the exceptional. They are champions of our economic empowerment and diversity, the backbone of our religious and educational organizations, and driving forces in politics and community service. These women will join the exclusive society of 450 professionals who have previously received this distinction.

Submit your nominations today. www.michiganchronicle.com

#WOE17

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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.

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

ANNOUNCEMENTS City of Royal Oak, Michigan Advertisement - Request For Proposal Street Tree Planting Program (CAP1733) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funded project.

Information pertaining to bidding and availability of specifications can be obtained through the city’s website (www.romi.gov/678/Bids-Request-forProposals-RFP) at no charge and the Michigan Intergovernmental Trade Network (MITN)’s website (mint.info)

PROCLAMATION I, MAHAN EL, whose address is 20525 Cherry Lawn, Detroit, Michigan 48221 proclaim my Free National Name as Moorish Science Temple of America according to the rules and usages of such Moorish Science Temple of America.

The Moorish Science Temple of America deriving its Power and authority from the Great Koran of Mohammed to Propagate the faith and extend the learning and truth of the Great Prophet Ali in America, to appoint and concecrate missionaries of the Prophet and to establish the faith of Mohommed in America.

HELP WANTED Seeking

REGISTRAR OFFICE COORDINATOR AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY School of Medicine

Perform a variety of highly specialized complex technical para-professional analyses of considerable difficulty and to coordinate multiple lower level technical functions required to provide services in an integrated system.

Minimum Qualifications: High school graduation or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Five years progressively responsible office experience, including direct experience in office coordination, prioritizing work assignments and maintaining work flow to meet deadlines.

Experience in group leading with ability to instruct and direct lower level non-exempt employees and student assistants in work methods and procedures. This is a full time, clerical-technical position and requires working the evening of the second Wednesday of each month. Salary is $44,658.00 annually. See online posting for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by January 23, 2017.

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

Test and Validation Engineer

Warren, MI, General Motors. Schedule test assignments to validate Infotainment sys for software releases. Interact with suppliers of CSM &HMI modules in vehicle Center Stack on a regular basis inform team on hardware &software changes, scheduling test plans based on the changes made in the software &updating parts with latest software. Test &validate communication between ECUs in Infotainment sys using protocols such as MOST, Automotive Ethernet, &CAN. Use hardware interface tools such as Optolyzer (MOST communication monitor), Vehicle Spy (GMLAN logs monitor), Canoe (GMLAN logs monitor), Radstar (raw Ethernet data to logical data converter), Android debug board (Android logs monitor &capture). Master, Electrical or Mechanical Engineering. 6 mos exp as Engineer, testing &validating communication ECUs in Infotainment sys using communication protocols such as MOST &CAN, interacting with suppliers of HMI modules in vehicle Center Stack, scheduling of test plans, &updating of parts with latest software.

Mail resume to Alicia Scott-­Wears, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-­C32-­D44, Detroit, MI 48265, Ref#15349.

Seeking

EVENT ASSISTANT AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Executive Events

Split time between providing business support for the team, planning and executing small events, and providing on-site event support for larger-scale events. Includes maintaining a complex events budget, coordinating purchases in compliance with university policy. Requires the ability to work extended hours, including early morning, evenings and occasional weekends. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and/or experience. One year of experience supporting event, meeting, or project planning.

Knowledge of rules of etiquette and social protocol and experience working for top-level executives and high ranking officials. Refer to online posting for additional requirements.

Salary commensurate with education and experience.

First consideration will be given to those who apply by January 20, 2017.

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

January 11-17, 2017

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

ENTRY LEVEL POLICE OFFICER CITY OF SOUTHGATE, WAYNE COUNTY E.O.E To apply, go to EMPCO’S website at www.empco.net to register for your written exam. The written exam must be completed by 5:00 pm on February 6, 2017.

Empco, Inc. has been contracted to facilitate the written examination process. Candidates passing the written examination will be contacted to complete an application.

For Applicant Requirements: Go to www.southgatemi.org Click Police Department, then click More Resources on the top right.

DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION Program management, partner, faculty and artistic relations, in addition to concert production, curriculum planning and oversight are core responsibilities of the leadership position with an established national organization focused on inclusion in classical music. Successful candidate will be highly driven, comfortable managing details while operating at a rapid pace.

The position demands expertise with both technology and people while offering the satisfaction of helping young people and promoting diversity in classical music. If you enjoy challenge and the opportunity to play a critical role in an organization that offers relationships of mutual respect, please email resume and salary requirements to: info@sphinxmusic.org

Senior Product Engineer Warren, MI, General Motors. Coordinate SMTs from Chassis, Electrical, Interior, Body/Exterior, Powertrain, &Thermal, &lead future full psgr vehicle product programs execution, as an Engrg focal point in the Program Execution Team. Lead Master Timing Chart consolidation assuring that Product Engrg activities are feasible inside dvlpg timing &supported Timing workshops.

Responsible to track the program imperatives such as piece cost, investment &assure program timing milestones are achieved in accordance with GM global dvlpmt standards.

Support &facilitate vehicle Performance &Validation related issues resolution &targets achievement. Initiate, track &respond to Change Requests & Decision Notices. Follow up, approve Engrg Work Order &coordinate change mgmt process. Bachelor, Mechanical Engineering or Industrial Engineering. 12 mos exp as Engineer in job offered or related. Mail resume to Alicia Scott-­Wears, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-­ C32-­D44, Detroit, MI 48265, Ref#49298.

Seeking

OFFICE ASSISTANT III AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY School of Nursing

Provide specialized office assistance, coordinating procedural business or service activities for a complex program area involving processing, implementing, advising on, and reporting specialized subject matter. Minimum Qualifications: High school graduation or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Four years progressively responsible office experience, including direct experience in office coordination, prioritizing work assignments and maintaining work flow to meet deadlines. This is a full time, clerical-technical position, salary is $42,021.00 annually. See online posting for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by January 23, 2017.

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

ASSISTANT GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Golf Courses

This position will assist in the planning, organizing and directing the maintenance, improvements and employees at the 36hole Golf and Learning Center. Minimum qualifications require an Associate degree in turf management or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Bachelor’s degree preferred. At least four years’ experience in golf course maintenance. Excellent supervisory skills. This is a full time position with some weekend hours required. Refer to online posting for additional qualifications and requirements.

Compensation commensurate with education and experience.

First consideration will be given to those who apply by January 18, 2017.

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

Senior Engineer – Fuel Systems Warren, MI, General Motors. Create STS related to fuel focused customer features such as Fuel Refill Sys, Fuel Delivery Sys, &Fuel Quantity Indication Sys for future vehicle programs using system engrg approach. Generate sys DFMEA for gasoline, diesel &CNG fuel systems.

Ensure all gates in dvlpmt/approval of each STS &sys DFMEA are met incldg spec approval, safety/peer reviews, &fuel domain CCB. Support system safety document generation for gasoline, diesel &CNG fuel systems incldg Preliminary Hazard Analysis &ASIL rating evaluation.

Master, Mechanical Engineering. 12 mos exp as Engineer generating system DFMEA for diesel &CNG fuel systems, ensuring all gates in dvlpmt/approval of each STS &system DFMEA are met incldg spec approval, safety &peer reviews. Mail resume to Alicia Scott-Wears, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-D44, Detroit, MI 48265, Ref#29899.

HELP WANTED

CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT

ASSISTANT CORPORATION COUNSEL

IF YOU HAD HIP OR KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY AND SUFFERED AN INFECTION between 2010-present, you may be entitled to compensation.

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Seeking

OFFICE ASSISTANT II AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY School of Business Administration

Minimum Qualifications: High school graduation or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Four years general office work, including experience in prioritizing work and meeting deadlines. Ability to operate standard office equipment. Knowledge of proper grammar, spelling & punctuation, intermediate word processing, spreadsheet and database applications. Ability to effectively interact with the public, students, faculty, and staff. This is a full time, clerical-technical position, with a salary of $39,693 annually. See online posting for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by January 16, 2017.

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

Possession of a Juris Doctorate Degree from an accredited college or university. Current membership in the State Bar of Michigan. A minimum of five (5) years of experience in civil law practice. Previous background and experience in governmental/municipal labor law is preferred.

Salary: $84,562.45 - $105,703.05 How to apply: For a complete job description, benefits information and online application instructions, please visit our website https://www/governmentjobs.com/careers/macomb The completed application must be received by January 24, 2017 Seeking

COORDINATOR, TICKET SALES AND OPERATIONS AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY

Design Quality Execution Lead Engineer Warren, MI, General Motors. Identify &resolve potential vehicle interior such as instrument panel, console, door trim, seats, &garnish trim, desg qlty issues impacting customer satisfaction, interacting daily with Desg Studio, Product Engrg, Mfg &Qlty Groups. Evaluate dvlpmt of Typical Section, DES &DTS, used

by Desg Studio &Surface Production Engrg.

Dvlp virtual models of interface using Alias, Vis Mock-Up &UG. Provide &approve data sets for bldg of VMRs, PMs, &3D (SLA) print models, &build Virtual TTMs. Lead Global Vehicle Dvlp Process milestone assessments (math &/or physical properties) from Vehicle Program Initiate math to SORP. Bachelor, Mechanical Engineering or Industrial Design.

12 mos exp as Design Quality Engineer or Design Quality Vehicle Lead, evaluating the dvlpmt of Typical Section, DES &DTS, providing &approving data sets for bldg of vehicle interior VMRs, PMs, &bldg Virtual TTMs. Mail resume to Alicia Scott-Wears, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-D44, Detroit, MI 48265, Ref#4137.

Wireless Network Operations Engineer

General Motors, Detroit, MI. Plan, lead engrg of LTE wireless ntwk team, launch, dvlp &continuously improve 4G/5G wireless connectivity capability (device to backhaul/mobile core) for future vehicles.

Analyze wireless mathematical call, registration records &coverage data across NA zip codes, create/classify wireless ntwk models incldg wireless power levels, improving backhaul infrastructure (incldg DNS mgmt/load-balancing) &cellular tower placement, using Tableau, SQL &QXDM. Troubleshoot soft, hardwr &connectivity level wireless technology interface between U.S. &global wireless ntwk carriers &GM. Supervise vendor personnel from ntwk providers, onboard device manufacturers. Master, Electrical Engineering. 12 mos exp as Engineer improving backhaul infrastructure incldg DNS mgmt/load-balancing, &providing soft, hardwr &connectivity level technical support of core wireless ntwk &interface with global wireless carriers. Mail resume to Alicia Scott-Wears, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32D44, Detroit, MI 48265, Ref#29703.

Powertrain Mounting Design Release Engineer

Warren, MI, General Motors. Evaluate environment of engine compartment package, design, engr, &release plastic &natural/EPDM rubber Pendulum Mounting System apps to high engine torque vehicles to manage load of engine &suspensions systems, reduce N&V, &eliminate component fatigue during vehicle life. Create common architecture to apply across programs. Perform advanced studies to implement high engine torque in current &new vehicle programs. Lead implementation of new powertrain mounts design in new engine families. Lead programs during Launch phase. Bachelor, Electronics Engrg, Mechatronics Engrg, or Control &Automation Engrg. 24 mos exp as Product Engineer evaluating environment of engine compartment package, engrg &dvlpg psgr vehicle plastic &natural/EPDM rubber powertrain mounts to manage load of engine &suspensions systems &reduce N&V &eliminate component fatigue during vehicle life. Mail resume to Alicia Scott-Wears, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-D44, Detroit, MI 48265, Ref#15437.

System Safety Engineer

Warren, MI, General Motors. Provide sys safety process specific guidance for internal &outsourced programs following ISO26262 functional safety guidelines &internal sys safety process. Dvlp safety reqmts, technical &functional safety concepts to ensure failures are detected by designed safety mechanisms to meet diagnostic coverage anlys criteria for hardware &software for SRR, AMM, &FSRACC. Provide technical direction related to sys safety work products such as serial communication between embedded controllers, &perform SFMEA, software criticality anlys, FTA, hazard &risk anlys, &single element fault anlys. Create &maintain hardware, software, algorithms reqmts using DOORS tools. Master, Electrical or Computer Engineering. 6 mos exp as Engineer providing sys safety process specific guidance for programs following ISO26262 functional safety guidelines &sys safety processes, dvlpg safety reqmts, to ensure failures are detected for hardware &software for Short or Long Range Radars, &creating/maintaining reqmts related to hardware, software, &algorithms using DOORS. Mail resume to Alicia ScottWears, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-D44, Detroit, MI 48265, Ref#1868.

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Athletics

Responsible for all marketing and promotions; assist with ticket office operations for the Department of Athletics, Athletics Marketing Intern Program, Cheer Team, Dance Team, Band and Mascot Program. Assist with sponsorship sales and execution. Bachelor’s Degree or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience. This is a full time position with evening and weekend hours required. Refer to online posting for additional qualifications and requirements.

Compensation commensurate with education and experience.

First consideration will be given to those who apply by January 18, 2017.

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

Senior Design Release Engineer

Warren, MI, General Motors. Review warranty narratives, desg, package &release passive safety control sys deploying airbags on truck, commercial van/bus, &sedans from program inception to product launch &resolve current product issues in warranty &product investigations. Define passive safety modules &sensors required, finalizing packaging of components to meet sys reqmts, releasing correct hardwr &soft to program, ensuring correct deliverables supplied for builds, ride events &dvlpmt activities, &meet FMVSS 101/208 &MVSR563 regs. Use tools incldg VehicleSpy 3 to diagnose issues on the bench &in vehicle, VizMock-­up for packaging reviews, &warranty &svce tools to review latest claim information, vehicle build/trace information, repair information &svce instructions on new warranty claims &product investigations. Bachelor, Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering. 12 mos exp as Design Release Engineer reviewing warranty narratives, designing, packaging &releasing passive safety control sys deploying airbags on vehicles, &resolving product issues in warranty &product investigations, using VehicleSpy 3 soft to diagnose issues on bench or in vehicle, VizMock-­ up for packaging reviews, to meet FMVSS 101/208 regs. Mail resume to Alicia Scott-­Wears, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-­C32-­D44, Detroit, MI 48265, Ref#17189.

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ASSISTANT ATHLETIC DIRECTOR FOR BUSINESS OPERATIONS AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Athletics Department

Provide business support in all fiscal matters pertaining to budgetary control, accounting policies and procedures, financial analysis, billing, projections and special projects for the Athletic Department. Oversee department purchasing activities, merchandising operations, ticket management, insurance claims processing and reconciliation of all departmental accounts.

Minimum qualifications require a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with emphasis in accounting or a directly related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Performa all job duties in a manner consistent with NCAA conference and university rules, regulations, ordinances, policies, procedures and guidelines. A minimum of 3 years’ experience in accounting, budget preparation, analysis and forecasting. This is a full time position with some evenings and weekend hours required. Refer to online posting for additional qualifications and requirements. Compensation commensurate with education and experience. First consideration will be given to those who apply by January 22, 2017.

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

Digital Sculptor Warren, MI, General Motors. Interpret, dvlp &desg digital sculptures of car, SUV, truck &sports car interior systems, using Alias, interpreting designs &drawings, dvlpg interior digital models of interior systems &components, achieving DFM &ease of assy reqmts. Desg &fine-­tune A, B, C &D-­ pillar trim, headliner, OHC, header trim, quarter panel trim, door trim, based on desg direction.

Interpret &build shaded photorealistic math models based on desg engrg data in Alias visualization tools, incldg evaluation of surface qlty with checking of tolerances, curvature, &continuity of surfaces. Dvlp &deliver Class A surfaces using Alias of interiors meeting desg direction, &satisfy engrg, manufacturability, safety &assy criteria, for production. Ensure all Class A surfaces &CAD designs are within precise engrg criteria (incldg all vehicle components performance reqmts) such as the airbags, wiring harnesses, cables &seals, &clearances, bosses &mounting locations, &component manufacturability reqmts such as Die Pull directions &Draft angles, &safety reqmts such as head impact criteria such as 201U testing data in compliance with FMVSS &minimum radii reqmts. Bachelor, Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering or related. 12 mos exp as Digital Sculptor or CAD Engineer, designing &fine-­tuning A, B, C &D-­ pillar trim, headliner, OHC, header/quarter panel/door trim, based on desg direction, interpreting &building shaded photorealistic math models based on desg engrg data in Alias, incldg evaluation of surface qlty with checking of tolerances, curvature, &continuity of surfaces, &ensuring that Class A surfaces/CAD designs are within engrg criteria such as wiring harnesses, cables &seals, &clearances, bosses &mounting locations. Mail resume to Alicia Scott-­Wears, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-­C32-­D44, Detroit, MI 48265, Ref#2661.

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The Impact Network partners with Dr. Juanita Bynum The Impact Network, the only African-American owned and operated Christian television network which is available in over 75 Million cable and satellite homes, in the United States, has teamed up with Dr. Juanita Bynum. Look to see her as she teaches the principles of empowerment living as it effects the life of women worldwide with her multicultural reach. Bishop Jackson says, “I look forward to working and praying with Dr. Juanita Bynum, she is a true prayer warrior, and millions of people will be blessed by her presence on The Impact Network.”

As an empowerment lecturer, bestselling recording artist, New York Times bestselling author, international conference host and entrepreneur, Dr. Juanita Bynum is president of Juanita Bynum Ministries and CEO of Juanita Bynum Enterprises. Over the last two decades, she has become a symbol of

ten addressing crowds of 50,000 to 70,000. As one of the most notable conference hosts in America, Dr. Bynum made history when over 68,000 registrants convened on the Georgia Dome in 2006 for her first Threshing Floor Conference to experience this movement.

Dr. Juanita Bynum inspiration and prayer. Unashamed to use her life as teaching mechanism, Dr. Bynum’s “in your face” messages have drawn thousands of women and men to her conferences and events over the last decade, of-

The Impact Network was founded in 2010 by Bishop Wayne T. Jackson and Dr. Beverly Jackson in Detroit and is the fastest growing African-American 100 percent independently owned Christian network in the United States with diverse family oriented programming.

Available on Comcast Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, Time Warner, Bright House, DirecTV and Dish Network, The Impact Network is available in over 75 million cable and satellite households in the United States, with additional international viewership in Africa and the Bahamas on Cable Bahamas.

This is the year of spirit and holy presence awareness Have you said “yes” to some things only to find yourself wondering, “Did I sign up for this?” Mystics and spiritual advisers are clear that we make an agreement with God (called many names) before coming through our parents to earth. They warn, the instant we are born, we forget about that agreement and become unconscious to our purpose and insensitive to the whole spirit of God within.

During a recent “we” time experience, spirit revealed to me one of the agreements I made before coming to earth through Ernest and Esther Anderson. The revelation was so overwhelming, I pulled over the side of the road and steadied my-

self. The challenge with forgetfulness is this — to wake up, it often takes a comedy of errors that may or may not be so funny, or, God forbid, one tragedy after another – personally, in community, in country, in the cosmos.

Have you noticed how unforgiving Mother Nature is as she retaliate against humanity’s thoughtlessness towards the environment?

Hurricanes, earthquakes (more in Oklahoma in 2016 than ever), mudslides dropping million dollar homes in the ocean, forest fires destroying hundreds of acreages and properties, flashfloods, and unprecedented snow fall. Mother Nature is calling us to be penitent ever since

violating the earth and one another.

This is not about ushering in the apocalypse.

When I consciously invited the Lord to be my Lord in February of 1979, I begin my daily meditations reading Psalm 51:1-12. My yearning is to stay connected with the holy spirit. What about you? I sense that same desire in Peter’s query, an essential desire to thoroughly understand “forgive as you are forgiven 70 times 70.” In real time, that equals 490. In non-time, that is immeasurable. And still the answer is the same, to which I’ll add, Lord have mercy, 70 times 70. — Chaplain Pamelajune Anderson

The Power of Prayer I see the greatest manifestation of God’s power in prayer when I listen for God’s answer, on my knees, driving, working, cleaning, writing, it makes a difference. I can’t know what He wants to tell me if I am always telling Him what I need.

Detroit design firms to be featured in French Design Biennale Having recently celebrated its one-year status as the first and only UNESCO City of Design in the United States, Detroit is eager to show the world how the city is leveraging its legacy of creativity and innovation to generate opportunity and development. Dozens of Detroiters will showcase their talent this March in France at the 10th edition of Saint-Etienne Design Biennale March 9 - April 9, 2017 in an exhibition exploring how America’s former industrial powerhouse is shaping the future of work.

Comprised of three independent but connected exhibitions, Detroit’s presence in France will include installations, panel discussions, music performances, a gift shop, and even a Detroit-style coffee shop serving up local delicacies. More than 60 Detroiters will attend the event to present, perform, and connect with the global design community, including everyone from city officials, to small and large design companies, to artists and urban farmers who have never travelled outside of the state.

As steward of Detroit’s UNESCO Designation, Detroit Creative Corridor Center (DC3) will present “Footwork,” curated by Public Design Trust with support from The Work Department, exploring unconventional collaborations among Detroit’s corporate, grassroots, and civic design community. The exhibition will

include experimentation with new products and processes, including Future Foam, the upcycling furniture prototype developed by Thing Thing with support from Lear Corporation, an updated hospital gown, created by a College for Creative Studies student through a partnership with Henry Ford Innovation Institute with assistance from Carhartt, Faygo-themed Detroit Bikes, and many other interesting and innovative design projects.

In parallel, Akoaki Studio will produce a carte blanche exhibition, Out of Site, addressing the way Detroit’s inhabitants are reinventing how they live and work in a series of full-scale installations, activated by Detroit artists and pop-up musical performances with the Detroit Afrikan Music Institution and leading French Musicians.

Creative Many Michigan will also curate a Detroit coffee shop, ShiftSpace, designed by LAAVU studio and featuring the works of Detroit-based designers, artists and food entrepreneurs, to host conversations around income and economy, equity and inclusion, work and leisure, civic space and urban futures, design and education, and automation and digitization.

Detroit design has transformed how the world works, lives, and moves, and influenced design, music, and culture worldwide. Come see the future of work this March in Saint-Etienne, France.

January 11-17, 2017 Page D-5

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

My answer comes in various ways and in His own time. It can be His audible voice, impression in my heart, telephone call, website, multiple ways. He may not answer for months but when I listen I hear Him and am grateful, even when He expresses his love in “no.”

When I listen, I get understanding. I learn how to wait and work toward making me better.

Our president was open about his prayer life while making tough decisions multiple times ev-

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ery single day, often with little or no time to consult advisors. He could not have done the good he did without an ongoing, consistent, well-built prayer life. Prayer does not lead us to perfection. It leads us to God’s will for us.

We can all sing, pray, cheer together. We can’t effectively communicate by talking together. Most of the time during my prayer time, after I have poured out my heart, I am quiet. I feel His presence and gain unbelievable comfort just from Him coming to visit and that is enough. I expect God to give me the courtesy to listen to me. I must grant the same courtesy and listen to Him. Dorma McGruder: 313-282-3382, www.dormamcgruder.com.

Gail V. Partee-Williams Services for Gail Vanessa Partee-Williams were held on Dec. 7 at Empowerment Church with Rev. Carlyle F. Stewart III officiating. Mrs. Partee-Williams passed away on Nov. 27, 2016.

Gail Vanessa Partee-Williams was born on Nov. 2, 1956 in Detroit to Charlie and Dartha Partee. She was educated in the Detroit Public Schools and graduated from Cooley High School. She continued her education at the Detroit College of Business and later at the University of Detroit, earning a B.A. in Phychology.

For many years, Mrs. Partee-Williams was employed at Gale Research in Detroit and Bendix Corporation in Southfield. She had also been employed at VITEC, Cornerstone School System and Winans Rutherford Academy. She was a seamstress who also enjoyed dancing and roller skating.

On Sept. 11, 1998, she and Jack Williams, Jr. were married and had a son, Jack III. Cherishing the memory of Gail Vanessa Partee-Williams are her husband, Jack; son, Jack III; stepdaughter, Irian; stepson, Jason; sisters, Rosalind, Carla and Kimberly; a brother, Dwayne; and many other relatives and friends.

Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Fred Williams On Monday, Dec. 5, services for Fred Williams were held at Elyton Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor Gerald T. Miller officiating. Mr. Williams passed away on Nov. 27, 2016.

Fred Williams was born on Nov. 19, 1917 in Shubuta, Mississippi to Ada and Cleveland Williams. He married Ollie Mae Nelson in 1941 and they were blessed with two children. He served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1944. After honorably discharged in 1953, he found employment with Chrysler and worked there for 30 years.

A devout Christian, Mr. Williams, a loving husband, father and grandfather, was always willing to help others, including delivering home-cooked meals to the sick.

Cherishing the memory of Fred Williams are his daughter, Bernice Jones; son, Fred, Jr.; a sister, Ophelia Daugherty; and many other relatives and friends.

Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Interment took place at Elmwood Cemetery.

Norma Jean Drake Services for Norma Jean Drake were held on Dec. 13 at Elyton Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor Gerald T. Miller officiating. Mrs. Drake passed away on Dec. 6, 2016.

Norma Jean Drake, affectionately known as “Piggy,” was born on June 7, 1942 in Detroit to Thomas and Louise Drake. She attended the Detroit Public Schools and graduated from Northeastern High School.

She was employed by Aquarium Care Adult Foster Home for many years. She had also worked at Tender Care Learning Center. She enjoyed watching Westerns, gardening, talking with her neighbors and taking of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Norma Jean Drake’s memory is being cherished by her daughters, Kimberly A. Drake-Savage, Karen Y. Drake and Krystal L. Drake; and many other relatives and friends, as well as a special daughter, Bridget Collier.

Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Interment took place at Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery.

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Page D-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • January 11-17, 2017

Hotel St. Regis’ Annual Holiday Staff Party