MC Digital Edition 2/13/13

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Volume 76 – Number 23

On Thursday, March 28, the Michigan Chronicle’s Pancakes & Politics forum at the Detroit Athletic Club will feature Gov. Rick Snyder as guest speaker. For tickets call (313) 963 8100.

WHAT’S INSIDE Road safety in megacities: Bikers, pedestrians beware (Page A-2)

Will Ronald L. Thompson be Detroit’s

emergency manager?

By Bankole Thompson CHRONICLE SENIOR EDITOR

From highly placed sources comes word that an emergency manager for Detroit is already on stand by, as Gov. Rick Snyder talks to various candidates. That is no surprise to those watching the process closely and others who are Bankole resigned to the Thompson notion that it is only a matter of time.

But for now the only issue in the naming of this official, which

will mark a seismic shift for the city’s governance structure, is the conclusion of the city’s financial report officially expect-

governor will then take the next step, which is the appointment of an emergency manager.

For anyone with knowledge of how the city has done business, it’s ut if historical precedence is safe to conclude any indicator to go by, given how that the financial report will not only Roy Roberts, a former General Motos escalate the crisis executive, was brought to run the Detroit but also underscore how dire things are Public Schools, it is not difficult to see in Detroit governhow Thompson, another auto executive, ment, where the wings of change are fits into this equation. fighting culture and bureaucracy. ed to be turned in to Gov. Rick Therefore, who is willing to Snyder on Feb. 19. accept serving as an emergency Following a thorough review manager for Detroit? of that report, if it fails to address the city’s fiscal cliff, the See manager page A-4

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B

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Photo by Earron West

Gov. Snyder to speak at Pancakes & Politics March 28

February 13-19, 2013

michiganchronicle.com

Ronald L. Thompson

Rapid growth of large cities throughout the world is having enormous impact on traffic safety in urban areas, say researchers at the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute.

Celebrates Black arts and culture (Page B-1) Throughout history, African American life has been expressed through words, pictures, sound and movement. In keeping with this being Black History Month, Fifth Third Bank is putting the spotlight on this rich culture.

Wolverines, Spartans in spotlight (Page B-8)

GOV. RICK SNYDER sat down with Bankole Thompson, editor of the Michigan Chronicle, for an exclusive interview following the governor’s address to the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce State of Business Luncheon at the MGM Grand Hotel.

— Andre Smith photos.

Gov. Snyder: Finance report comes before anything

A

fter delivering remarks at the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce State of the Business Luncheon, Gov. Rick Snyder sat down with Bankole Thompson editor of the Michigan Chronicle, for a lengthy conversation about Detroit Mayor Dave Bing’s upcoming State of the City Address, his observations about the disconnect between the Detroit delegation in Lansing and Detroit government, the future

EXCLUSIVE

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michiganchronicle.com

MICHIGAN CHRONICLE: Is the Public Lighting Authority an example of how the state and the city can work together?

RICK SNYDER: Yes, and the other one would be regional transit authority, M1 Rail. We work well on those transportation projects.

MC: Aside from those transportation issues, can you point to any other issue that demands cooperation between Detroit and the state?

RS: That’s why we want to keep on coming up with ideas.

The school partnerships are a good one, just like we’re talking about Pathways to Potential, about putting human services people in the schools, getting out of government office and putting them in the schools. We want to do more with health clinics,

employment services, Michigan Works trainings, community ventures, summer youth programs, etc. Community Ventures has been interesting. We’ve gotten good responses from companies.

We’ve got lots of companies lined up. It’s more challenging actually to find people to go into the program. The biggest (issue) when we are finding people to get in is they have a transportation problem.

MC: You addressed the cham-

See Snyder page A-4

MEAP scores show DPS record gains

By all accounts the Big Ten Conference is the best in college basketball top to bottom. The Spartans and the Wolverines are being watched by a nationwide audience.

An exciting and unforgettable performance (Page D-1)

of Detroit and its financial crisis, the Review Team’s report officially due Feb. 19 and whether that report will follow an emergency manager widely expected to be named in a couple of weeks.

CHRONICLE STAFF REPORTS

On Feb. 11, Detroit Public Schools Emergency Financial Manger Roy Roberts held a press conference at Dixon Educational Learning Academy to reveal the progress DPS students have been making on the Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) tests.

The scores released concerned the tests administered last fall and showed that DPS students made gains in 17 out of 18 assessments, and “closed the gap,” in 14 out of 18 assessments.

Hundreds of families enjoy Winter Blast Detroit’s foremost winter festival, Winter Blast, held over the weekend, brought hundreds of families in a three-day jammed festivity with food and music. Pictured (above, from left) are Soraya, Deshelle, Delaney and DelShawn Farver were among families having a good time at the event held annually at Campus Martius.

U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow also attended the festival, on Saturday, with her grandchildren.

– Andre Smith photos

Students showed significant improvement in reading and math, with thirdthrough eighth grade students showing an increase from 3 to 11.3 percent in their reading skills.

According to reports, DPS students bested their state- DR. ORA BEARD, principal of wide peers in grade Dixon Educational Learning Acad8 reading by 7.1 per- emy. – Jim Campbell photo cent.

DPS students in the third through eighth grades demonstrated proficiency in math by improving their scores from .5 percent to 6.7 percent.

All but one grade also saw improvements in science, social studies and writing.

According to Roberts, while the test results are great news, there is still much work to do, both on the district level and in individual schools.

“Detroit Public Schools’ goal is to ensure that every child is successful and we are doing everything in our

See DPS page A-4

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

February 13-19, 2013

Page A-2

Road safety in megacities: Bikers, pedestrians beware Rapid growth of large cities throughout the world is having enormous impact on traffic safety in urban areas, say researchers at the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute.

“Recent reports have documented and discussed the ever-increasing urbanization of nations and the resulting increase in the number of megacities — and the potential implications for traffic safety in these megacities (urban areas with 10 million or more people),” said UMTRI researcher Brandon Schoettle.

In a new study, Schoettle and colleague Michael Sivak examined road safety in two European megacities—London and Paris. An earlier study

by Sivak and Shan Bao looked at New York and Los Angeles.

In all four cities, fatal crashes involving drivers and passengers in vehicles are less prevalent relative to national rates for each country. However, for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists, fatality rates are much higher in the urban areas.

In London, 53 percent of fatal crashes from 2005 to 2011 involved pedestrians, compared to 22 percent for the United Kingdom, overall. In Paris, the fatal crash rate for pedes-

trians in 2010-11 was 36 percent, compared to less than 13 percent for all of France.

Pedestrians were involved in half of all fatal crashes in New York City and about a third of those in Los Angeles—much higher than the 22.5 percent rate for the state of New York, 17 percent for California and 11 percent nationally from 2002 to 2009.

Likewise, riding a twowheeler is usually more dangerous in urban areas.

About 41 percent of all fatal crashes in Paris and 21 percent in London involved motorcycles, compared to rates of about 20 percent for both France and the U.K. While bicycles were involved in slightly fewer fatal crashes in Paris relative to France on the whole, bicyclists were killed at higher rates in London, New York and Los Angeles, compared to national figures. For London, 15 percent of fatal crashes involved bicycles, compared to 5 percent for the entire U.K. The percentages for New York and Los Angeles were 6 and 3, respectively, while the U.S. rate was less than 2 percent.

For all four cities, both studies analyzed fatal crashes in terms of types of crashes and roadways, road and light conditions,

driver behaviors, time of day and week, weather, age and gender.

Among the (relative to rates): –More crashes.

findings national

single-vehicle

–More crashes on lowspeed and one-way streets.

–More crashes and fatalities involving male drivers.

–More crashes involving drivers ages 25-45.

–Fewer crashes involving alcohol.

–Fewer crashes during rain or snow and on wet or snowy roads.

Other findings: • More weekend crashes in New York and Los Angeles, but more weekday crashes in London.

• More crashes and more fatal crashes at night in New York and Los Angeles, but more crashes and more fatal crashes during morning (commuting hours) in London.

• More fatal crashes on divided highways in New York and Los Angeles, but fewer in London.

• Fewer fatal crashes caused by young drivers in Paris than in London.

• Fewer fatal crashes involving alcohol in Paris than in London.

Kmart ties financial empowerment program to Black History Month In honor of Black History Month, Kmart will Share the Word of financial empowerment. The Share the Word campaign was created to honor the history and legacy of African-Americans by providing valuable information and resources to enhance the lives of Kmart customers.

Now in its sixth year, Share the Word has teamed up with ESSENCE Magazine senior editor of personal finance and careers, Tanisha Sykes, to provide financial tips, budgeting and saving templates and a family finance e-guide, available for download at the program’s dedicated microsite, kmart.com/ sharetheword.

Ultrasound bill pushed State Reps. Pat Somerville (R- New Boston) and Dale Zorn (R- Ida) recently co-sponsored a bill that would have effectively forced women seeking an abortion to have an ultrasound performed with an invasive vaginal probe.

In the face of media reports and widespread public outcry, House Speaker Jase Bolger (RMarshall) said the House would not consider the legislation.

“I have absolutely no interest in forcing a woman to have a transvaginal ultrasound,” said Bolger.

“Instead of focusing on jobs, Somerville and Zorn are pushing an extreme anti-woman agenda in Lansing,” said Jessica Tramontana, communications director of Progress Michigan.

Advertise 313-963-5522

“Financial empowerment is extremely important within the African American community,” said Sykes. “This year’s Share the Word campaign will provide the tools, information and resources to help pave the road to financial success.”

Share the Word will bring the message of financial empowerment to life through social platforms, including Twitter, Facebook and shopyourway.com.

Throughout February, SHOP YOUR WAY Members can visit shopyourway.com/ sharetheword to enter a sweepstakes for a chance to win tax preparation services provided by Jackson Hewitt1. To close out the month, Kmart will host an

in-store event and Tweetup featuring Sykes on Feb. 23 in Hyattsville, Md. The event will include interactive financial discussions, special discounts for event attendees, prizes and giveaways.

“Kmart embraces diversity and inclusion throughout the year,” said Andrew Stein, interim chief marketing officer, Kmart. “We are always looking for ways to reach our audiences with programs that resonate and provide value.”

For more information about the Share the Word program and to download the family finance eguide, please visit kmart. com/sharetheword.

34th Annual Urban League salute dinner

We’re investing in your neighborhood. Citizens Bank is offering low-rate loans to purchase, refinance or improve homes

The 34th annual Urban League of Detroit and Southeastern Michigan’s Salute to Distinguished Warriors Dinner will be held on Thursday, March 21, at the Detroit Marriott Hotel (RenCen). The following people will be honored: Grace Lee Boggs, the Honorsble John Din-

gell, Barbara Mahone, Howard Sims and Sam Logan (posthumous).

HOW TO CONTACT US:

Publication No.: USPS 344-820

communities. Let Citizens Bank help you make home improvements or buy a home in your neighborhood. Talk to a Citizens Banker to

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

479 Ledyard Street Detroit, MI 48201 Phone: (313) 963-5522

OFFICE HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

OFFICE HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Closed Sat. and Sun.

479 LEDYARD • DETROIT MI 48201 (313) 963-5522 • FAX (313) 963-8788

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

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in select areas of Wayne County. If you qualify, you’ll get a low interest loan to help purchase a home (including down payment and closing cost assistance up to $7,500), or up to $10,000 to fix up a house you already own.

Citizens Bank is a Michigan company that believes in supporting our

see if you qualify, and learn about terms and conditions.

To learn more visit myhome.citizensbanking.com or call (313) 494-3275.

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

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

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news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

February 13-19, 2013 Page A-3

Child poverty in Detroit alarming

By Derek Melot SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE The majority of children in Detroit now live in poverty, says according to a new report from the demographic firm Data Driven Detroit.

The child poverty rate was 57.3 percent in 2011, D3 found in “2012 State of the Detroit Child,� after a decade of huge increases in economic struggles for children in Michigan’s largest city. “The large increase in the share of children living in poverty was the real story of the last decade,� said Data Driven Detroit in a release accompanying the report. “Nearly 60 percent (57.3 percent) of Detroit children were living in poverty in 2011. This represents a 64.7 percent increase in child poverty since 1999, eliminating all gains that were made during the decade of the 1990s.

The firm pointed out that the poverty rate was highest, 62.7 percent, for Detroit’s youngest children — those under age 5. “This report on the status of children in the state’s largest city shows the impact of its deterioration on the next generation — almost two of every three young children in the city live in a family with income below the poverty line,� said Jane Zehnder-Merrell of the Michigan League for Public Policy. “Without substantial intervention, these circumstances will negatively affect their emotional and physical health, their educational achievement and employment opportunities. The state and region must address such a concentration of disadvantage.�

Additional findings from the report: • The city’s child population fell at a much faster clip than Detroit’s overall population loss: “While the total population of Detroit fell by 25 percent over the decade, the population under 18 years of age fell by 35.6 percent.â€? • In 2010, fewer than 3 in 10 Detroit children (28.9 percent) lived in households led by a married couple — down from 34.5 percent in 2000. • In 2011, 41 percent of city households

reported receiving food assistance. • In 2011, nearly half the city’s workingage population (49.1 percent) was not working. • While housing values fell in Detroit over the decade, housing costs for Detroiters rose between 2000 and 2010. In a city where nearly half the households rent, the average monthly leasing cost rose from $656 to $741 over the decade. • Between 1999 and 2011, the percentage of Detroit children enrolled in Detroit Public Schools fell from 80.4 percent to 45.7 percent. In other words, the majority of school-age children living in Detroit attends classes elsewhere. “I find the changes in the educational structure — the share of Detroit children by governance — is particularly interesting,â€? said Kurt Metzger, who led the D3 team that created the study at the behest of the Skillman Foundation.

Derek Melot is an senior editor at Bridge magazine, an editorial partner of the Michigan Chronicle. Melot has served as an assistant page editor, columnist and reporter at the Lansing State Journal where he covered state and local issues.

Girl who performed at Obama inauguration killed in Chicago gun violence New York City,� Durbin said. “We have guns everywhere, and some believe the solution to this is more guns. I disagree.

When you take a look at where these guns come from, 45 percent-plus are sold in the surrounding towns around Chicago, not in the city.�

By Philip Rucker A 15-year-old Chicago girl who reportedly performed with her school’s marching band at several events for President Obama’s inauguration was shot and killed on on Jan. 29, police said.

The girl, whom local reports identified as Hadiya Pendleton, died when a gunman opened fire on her and about a dozen other teenagers while they were at a park in Chicago, according to Chicago Police officer JosĂŠ Estrada.

Hadiya Pendleton

For Obama, the shooting hits home at a time when he is pushing Congress to enact stricter gun laws that he says would curb not only mass shootings but also everyday gun violence in cities such as his home town of Chicago. This year so far, there have been more than 118 shooting incidents in Chicago, according to the city’s crime statistics.

“The president has more than once when he talks about gun violence in America referred not just to the horror of Newtown or Aurora or Virginia Tech or Oak Creek but to shootings on the corner in Chicago or other parts of the country,� he continued. “And this is just another example of the problem that we need to deal with.�

White House press secretary Jay Carney said the thoughts and prayers of President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama were with Pendleton’s family. He also reiterated the Obama administration’s position that those in Washington “have an obligation to try� to forge bipartisan agreement on gun control if it means that even one life can be saved. “Well, it’s a terrible tragedy. Any time a young person is struck down with so much of their life ahead of them, and we see it far too often,� Carney said.

Hadiya performed at inaugural festivities with the King College Prep High School band, according to a report by NBC Chicago.

Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-Ill.) mentioned Pendleton as he began questioning witnesses at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on the issue of gun violence. He noted that Pendleton had marched in the inaugural parade. “Just a matter of days after the happiest day of her life, she’s gone,�

Durbin said.

Addressing the gun violence epidemic in Chicago, Durbin said the biggest problem is that the city is “awash in guns.� “The confiscation of guns per capita in Chicago is six times the number in

In an interview with the Washington Post, Estrada would not identify the victim, citing department policies.

Estrada said the shooting occurred at about 2:20 p.m. A group of 10 to 12 young people were under a canopy in a park, trying to avoid the rain, when a man jumped over a fence and ran toward them with a gun.

When the suspect opened fire, the group scattered, he said. The suspect quickly fled. Several of the young people gathered at the park had ties to area gangs, Estrada said, although Hadiya did not. He said the investigation is ongoing. “By all indications, it appears the female victim was an unintended target in this incident,� Estrada said.

He also noted that there were two other victims — a 17-year-old male who was shot in the leg and is in stable condition and another 17-yearold male who had a graze wound to his left foot and has been released from the hospital.

Minority power in electoral politics, focus of forum on Wright Museum Obama exhibit The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History will host a public forum on Feb. 19, interpreting the historic importance and symbolic meaning of the first African American president and its impact on minority participation in electoral politics. The event, sponsored by the Michigan Humanities Council, is part of activities highlighting “Visions of Our 44th President,� an exhibit about President Obama free for viewing from 6-7 p.m.

The forum held from 7 to 9 p.m. will be moderated by Bankole Thompson, editor of the Michigan Chronicle and

author of the books “Obama and Black Loyalty� and “Obama and Christian Loyalty,� and featuring Ismael Ahmed, former director of the Michigan Department of Human Services and founder of ACCESS; Dr. Vincent Hutchings, professor of Political Science and Afro American Studies at the University of Michigan; Jocelyn Benson, interim dean of Wayne State University Law School; and John W. Hardy, an original Freedom Rider and Mississippi voter registration field organizer for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC).

Honoring People.

Celebrating Michigan.

We’re proud to celebrate Black History Month, and to support the people of Michigan in helping build a strong future for us all.

michigan.gov/mshda

HELP US HELP YOU AVOID TAX FORECLOSURE Let’s work together!

Today many are struggling to pay property taxes. State law requires that delinquent taxes, fees, and interest be paid in full. Wayne County Treasurer Ray Wojtowicz has created programs to assist you in addressing delinquent property taxes and avoiding foreclosure.

The Treasurer offers two assistance programs allowing additional time to make payments. Those who own and live in a property as their primary residence may qualify for a one year Distressed Owner Occupant Extension. Apply by March 15. Property owners must provide copies of their recorded deed or land contract, utility bill sent to the address, state issued license or ID and income verification.

Also you may qualify for a program that would pay the delinquent taxes for you. Contact Step Forward Michigan at stepforwardmichigan.org.

The Stipulated Payment Agreement is available for all residential and commercial property. Taxes owed for 2010 and prior years are combined and divided into four payments at 20% each and a final payment for the remaining balance. Payments are due February 4, April 8, June 3, August 5 and October 7.

Money orders and certified checks made payable to the Wayne County Treasurer will be accepted for tax payment.

To better serve you, Wayne County Treasurer Ray Wojtowicz and Wayne County Community College District present Property Taxpayer Assistance Saturdays during the month of February at four WCCCD campus locations. The Wayne County Treasurer will have representatives onsite to collect taxes and explain assistance plan options. If you owe 2010 and prior year property taxes, visit a campus near you. Each session will be held from 10:00 am. to 2:00 pm.

For additional information, email taxinfo@co.wayne.mi.us, visit Treasurer.waynecounty.com or call 313.224-5990.

Help us help you avoid foreclosure.

Property Taxpayer Assistance Saturdays at WCCCD BN UP QN r %PPST $MPTF BU QN

DETROIT DOWNTOWN CAMPUS 1001 West Fort St. – February 16th DETROIT NORTHWEST CAMPUS 8200 West Outer Drive – February 23rd Save Time Pay Online treasurer.waynecounty.com

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

February 13-19, 2013 Page A-4

Manager Ronald L. Thompson, a distinguished African American executive who serves on the Board of Directors of Chrysler LLC as lead director, is the latest name to come up in these wild cards of names for Detroit emergency manager.

GOV. RICK SNYDER shares a light moment with Bankole Thompson before the interview. — Andre Smith photo

Snyder

ber on the state of business in Michigan. What is the state of Detroit?

RS: Well, the mayor is doing his speech (State of the City) this week. He is supposed to give the report on the city. I did say, though, that I think the citizens of Detroit deserve better services than they are getting. And I think there are a lot of exciting things going on in Detroit, but a lot of it is focused on Midtown, downtown and the riverfront, and my concern is the neighborhoods.

MC: Some critics have said the Financial Advisory Board is almost non-existent with all that is going with the city’s finances. Are you satisfied so far with all of the issues and how they are being tackled?

RS: Well, I think they are doing their work. And I think they are doing good work so I have no question or issue with how they are operating. Until I get the (Review Team) report it would be hard for me to make a full conclusion. Because to be open with you, being an old finance guy I know how to tell how good a report is, not just in terms of the answer but how well it’s written and what kinds of things it covers.

MC: So this is a report you will vet yourself?

RS: Yes. I’ll have other people look at it but I’ll read this whole report myself, and I’ll have a bunch of questions to ask.

MC: How big of a stake is Detroit’s crisis on the state level?

RS: It’s major. This is a big deal. I’ve actually made sure when we are talking about, like my personal time this year they allocated for my schedule, they saved a lot of time to work on Detroit. So I’m here working in Detroit.

MC: On the Belle Isle issue some called it a lost opportunity, city council wants more answers.

You’ve basically shut the door on that. Correct?

RS: Yes but the way I view it is we gave them a deadline. I think we gave them two extensions. I

From page A-1 didn’t make this go away.

They made it go away.

MC: And if this analogy of deadlines is correct, those who support the route of stringent fiscal management, whether in the form of an emergency manager or financial board, say you’ve been babysitting Detroit government. How do you respond to that?

RS: I’m just trying to be a good partner and do my job, and I think we’ve done it well. I wish it could have been done better in the sense of Belle Isle. I can’t understand why people couldn’t have done that.

MC: Many ideas have been circulated, but what specifically needs to happen to move Detroit forward?

RS: I have said in the past that I wished there was more of a positive vision for Detroit. I even talked about the elements of that. What do we do to bring back jobs to Detroit, embracing manufacturing and other industries in Detroit, how to bring and keep young people in the city and how to address the neighborhoods in a constructive way?

And then how to market Detroit in a positive way.

Those are all four key attributes, but I didn’t do them because I’m not in charge of the city. The city should do that.

The recent Detroit Plan is a good one, but the issue in Detroit has never been the lack of plans.

The bigger issue is the execution, implementation of those plans.

MC: Do you get a sense of urgency about how officials in Detroit are responding to the financial crisis?

RS: Not as much as I would like. And I’ve been pretty clear about that because we did the Consent Agreement months ago. They did some of the items early, but a bunch of them didn’t happen until the last month or so.

MC: So what is the end result?

RS: Detroit doing really well, get the financial stability and improve services and then you

have a platform to grow because there are a lot of other great things going on in Detroit.

MC: What is your relationship with Mayor Bing in light of all that is going on?

RS: Generally good.

It’s professional and cordial.

MC: Now to the inevitable question: Emergency manager coming very soon?

RS: Depends on the Review Team report.

It’s always good to ask. (laughs) MC: What is the threshold for the report that will trigger an emergency manager?

RS: Until I get the report it will just be speculation.

MC: What would you like to hear in Mayor Bing’s State of the City Address?

RS: Well, it’s his city.

I’ll wait to hear what he has to say. That’s why I don’t want to overreach.

I’m governor of Michigan.

My role isn’t to run the city of Detroit.

Snyder’s initiative, which is in accordance with the federal Affordable Care Act, contains safeguards that ensure the program’s financial stability and protect against changes in Washington’s commitment.

“This makes sense for the physical and fiscal health of Michigan,” said Snyder, who studied the issue thoroughly before arriving at his decision.

“Expansion will create more access to primary care providers, reduce the burden on hospitals and small businesses, and save precious tax dollars. It also puts Michigan rather than Washington in the driver’s seat in terms of implementation, which allows us to better address Michigan’s specific needs.”

Expanding Medicaid to cover up to 133 percent of

the Federal Poverty Limit means that routine and preventative health care will be provided to about 320,000 Michiganders in the first year. More than 470,000 will be covered by 2021, reducing the amount of Michigan’s uninsured by about 46 percent.

Creating access to primary care providers reduces more costly emergency room visits and decreases hospitals’ uncompensated costs. A recent study estimates that Michigan will save $351 million by 2022.

More than $20 billion will flow into Michigan through 2023 by leveraging the federal funds made available through the Affordable Care Act. In addition, the state’s General Fund will see $1.2 billion in savings through 2020.

“While this is a federal program that we would not have necessarily created for Michigan, it is critical that the state control its implementation,” Snyder said. “Failure to go through with the expansion means that Michigan tax dollars will go to cover health care costs for other states that do take part. We can ensure the program remains

Thompson, 62, married for 41 years with children and grandchildren, has served on many boards including the McDonnell Douglas Corporation, National Association of Manufacturers, and Interstate Bakeries Corporation among others. He is one of two African Americans on the board of Chrysler, joining Ruth J. Simmons, former president of Brown University.

A graduate of the University of Michigan, Thompson, is currently the chairman of the Board of Trustees of Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association, a for-profit life insurance company that serves the retirement and financial needs of faculty and employees of colleges and universities, hospitals, cultural institutions and other nonprofit organizations. He also serves on the Board of Trustees for Washington University in St. Louis and as a member of the Advisory Board of Plymouth Venture Partners Fund.

During a sit-down interview with Gov. Snyder Monday afternoon at the

MGM Grand Hotel, he would not divulge information about an emergency manager when I tried to pin him down on the issue. He laughed off my inquiry, saying he can only offer more when the city’s financial report from the Detroit Review Team is submitted to the state next week.

But if historical precedence is any indicator to go by, given how Roy Roberts, a former General Motors executive, was brought in to run the Detroit Public Schools, it is not difficult to see how Thompson, another auto executive, fits into this equation.

They both had distinguished careers in the manufacturing world becoming pioneers in their respected fields for African Americans and now coming out of retirement to tackle intractable financial issues with the public bodies.

But it also shows how Snyder, if he chooses Thompson, is digging deep into an industry — the manufacturing industry — that once had financial issues of its own to find answers to.

A Thompson appointment would address major big issue — someone who is a Detroit native selected to handle the city’s finances for the time being.

It would be hard to be critical Thompson as an outsider given that he is from Detroit and would now be returning to his home in a different capacity than when he left.

Thompson’s selection would also show another distinct quality that is typical in the Snyder formula: bringing in former or current corporate ex-

ecutives to the world of government and public policy.

Anthony Williams, the former mayor of Washington, DC, has been mentioned as a strong choice for the job. Charlie Beckham, former municipal executive and veteran of the Coleman Young administration, has also been cited as a potential candidate. Curtis Ivery, chancellor of Wayne County Community College District, is also a name that has come up.

Yet, the seemingly most logical choice in all of this given what Snyder has done in the past with Roberts’ appointment as emergency manager of the Detroit Public Schools, is Ronald L. Thompson.

Certainly the successful revamp of Chrysler and General Motors in the wake of their financial crisis is a plus since Thompson sits on the board of the global automotive company.

Bankole Thompson is editor of the Michigan Chronicle and the author of the forthcoming book “Rising From the Ashes: Engaging Detroit’s Future With Courage.” His book “Obama and Black Loyalty,” published in 2010, follows his recent book, “Obama and Christian Loyalty” with an epilogue

by Bob Weiner, former White House spokesman.

Thompson is a political news analyst at WDET101.9FM (NPR affiliate) and a member of the weekly “Obama Watch” Sunday evening roundtable on WLIB-1190AM New York and simulcast in New Jersey and Connecticut. E-mail bthompson@michronicle.com or visit his personal page at www.bankolethompson.

MC: I noticed in your State of the State Address you mentioned some members of the Detroit delegation. What is the relationship between your office and the Detroit delegation?

RS: Trying to continually improve that in terms of working on it. I would say one of the issues I find more often is that sometimes I find more of a disconnect between the delegation and the city.

I view it as the city and the delegation should be having regular dialogue.

My primary role is not to be facilitating communication between the city and the delegation.

Sometimes it seems like they’ve been somewhat out of sync.

MC: So an emergency manager is coming in four weeks?

RS: When the report comes in. I’m not going to speculate.

E-mail bthompson@ michronicle.com.

Snyder calls for Medicaid expansion Gov. Rick Snyder has announced that his fiscal year 2014 budget recommendation includes an expansion of Michigan’s Medicaid program, benefitting about 320,000 residents in the first year alone. Snyder was joined at Sparrow Hospital by health care and business leaders who applauded the decision.

Thompson, who is currently based in Ohio, is a native Detroiter and retains strong family ties to the city. He created one of the largest minority owned automotive companies as a supplier before rising to the level of being a member of the Chrysler Board of Directors.

From page A-1

financially stable and guard against changes in the federal commitment.”

The governor’s budget recommendation calls for a deposit of 50 percent of the savings achieved from the expansion to be deposited into a special health savings account for the first seven years, through 2020. The account will help cover the increased share of the costs when the federal government scales back its funding from 100 percent for the first three years to 90 percent beginning in 2020.

Reducing the number of uninsured will ease the burden on job providers, who will be subject to federal penalties beginning in 2014 if they do not offer affordable health care options for employees. In addition, employees who have access to preventative care miss less work due to illness, resulting in a more productive work force.

“The relationship between a patient and doctor is very important,” Snyder said. “Before making this recommendation, I had to be assured that the existing network of primary care physicians is equipped to handle an influx of patients.”

FIRST GRADE teacher Jill Priebe with four of her students. — Jim Campbell photo

DPS

From page A-1

power to make that happen,” Roberts said.

Karen Ridgeway, superintendent of academics, added that these gains came about because of a comprehensive academic plan. This plan includes robust professional development for teachers and all academic staff, constant data analysis, and regular alterations to teaching strategies to meet the individual needs of every child.

Highlights of this academic plan included individual Learning Maps for every child, which are based on what he or she has learned and what his or her strengths and weaknesses are.

lesson plans based on the Common Core State Academic Standards.

These ensured that all classrooms, using their own teaching methods, adhered to standards of what children are expected to know and be able to do at each grade level in each subject.

According to Ridgeway, assessment data must be posted in every class-

tendents were trained in data analysis, and they in turn trained all principals Teachers were trained as well. Staff members were then held accountable for student performance.

Additional professional development includes a new high-tech platform called PD 360, a system which allows teachers and staff to access a library of over 20 videos from experts on a variety of educational topics and lessons.

“Our focus was on closing the gap and staying on pace. We have much more to do, but we have a comprehensive academic strategy that’s working, and we now plan to redouble our efforts to not only sustain these gains, but increase them.”

Students in sixth through 12 grade also used netbooks and participated in a vigorous technology curriculum. In addition, those in grades Eight-12, were able to take home netbooks with their parents’ permission.

What’s more, all elementary school students received extended instruction time in both reading and mathematics, and those who needed it received a double-dosing of subjects.

Parents were also part of the academic plan through engagement initiatives, including workshops and eight neighborhood Parent Resource Centers, as well as takehome academic toolkits.

Another highlight of the academy plan was

room. This reinforces an emphasis on data analysis. The aggregate data for every school must be posted at the front of the school as well.

“Our focus was on closing the gap and staying on pace,” she said.

“To do that, everyone had to focus relentlessly on the individual data for each child and each classroom. We have much more to do, but we have a comprehensive academic strategy that’s working, and we now plan to redouble our efforts to not only sustain these gains, but increase them.”

Assistant

superin-

This semester, coming attractions will include updated Individual Learning Maps; assistance and training to help parents and students understand each child’s academic data; new workshops in the Parent Resource Centers on data analysis; more robust professional development for academic staff and increased use of differentiated instruction based on researched best practices and data analysis; and new easy-to-use Individual Learning Maps which show what a child has learned and what he or she still needs to learn.

Other upcoming events include a new Reading Corps Rally and Training at 10 a.m. on March 2 at Renaissance High School, 6565 W. Outer Drive.

For information, visit: http://detroitk12.org/readingcorps/ or call 313-8731302. Volunteers can sign up at readingcorpsrally. eventbrite.com.

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

DCAD to host diabetes disparities meeting The National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM) welcomes citizens of Detroit to participate in helping eliminate diabetes-related health disparities in African American adults by attending NKFM’s Detroit Coalition Against Diabetes’s (DCAD) monthly coalition meeting.

The meeting will take place on Feb. 14, from noon to 1:30 p.m. at New Prospect Missionary Church in Detroit. The meeting will feature a Valentine’s Day celebration and a healthy lunch.

The NKFM is recognizing African American History Month this February by spreading awareness about the increased risk of diabetes and kidney disease in African Americans, and the importance of health management to prevent these chronic health conditions.

Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure, causing over 40% of all cases, and is four times more likely in African Americans than in Caucasians. For African American adults with diabetes,

it’s important to control your disease and take care of your health to prevent future health complications. Despite the increased risk, type 2 diabetes can be both prevented/delayed and managed, which can reduce the chance of having other health issues down the road.

All Detroit residents are welcome to participate in helping eliminate diabetes-related health disparities in African American adults by attending the monthly DCAD meeting. DCAD strives to promote health equity in Detroit through policy-making, environmental changes, community awareness, and action by developing resources through strategic collaboration. DCAD’s vision for the future is Health, Equity, Access, Learning, and Empowerment in Detroit (HEALED).

For more information about this meeting, or about the DCAD coalition, please contact Jennifer Guillen at (800) 482-1455 or at jguillen@nkfm.org.

Snyder stands strong on the value of diversity, immigration reform

By Tom Watkins

How right you are, Gov. Snyder!

The politics of immigration reform is heating up in our nation’s capitol.

One could be cynical about the efforts in DC to solve the thorny immigration problem. Perhaps the recent posturing is nothing more than partisan game-playing. Maybe political strategists are simply seeking an issue to pummel the other side with when a deal is unable to be reached.

Both political parties have begun the process to achieve what was once thought impossible in Washington, DC — a bipartisan deal to solve a problem that impacts over 12 million individuals and their extended families.

The New York Times summarized the issue well in just one sentence on their editorial page: Immigration reform is “ ... a once-in-a-generation overhaul of an outdated system that turns away too many skilled and eager workers, separates too many families and keeps too many millions of undocumented people at the edge of society, unable to get right with the law.”

Tom Watkins

It is about time our national leaders came together on a series of issues ranging from gun violence to the nation’s deficit and now addressing immigration reform. Doing nothing is like pretending to fix a hole in your roof — it does not keep the rain out.

Gov. Snyder shines when he acknowledges, “Michigan is wonderfully diverse thanks to the Scandinavian influences on our Upper Peninsula, the Dutch and Hispanic contributions to West Michigan and the AfricanAmerican, Asian, Middle Eastern and Polish imprints on Southeastern Michigan.”

The Republicans are beginning to understand that demographics are destiny. They are not too late in realizing they are losing the Hispanic vote on a nearly 3/1 ratio. Perhaps they are “getting religion” on this issue. They seem perched on the edge of finding a sensible compromise to resolve this long-festering issue.

Closer to home, our Gov. Rick, “The Nerd” Snyder has dubbed himself the “most immigrant friendly governor in America.”

He said, “For the overwhelming majority of immigrants, the opportunity to begin again — and flourish — is what made Michigan great. We need to continue to harness

this thirst for success and the work ethic that makes success possible, to help Michigan grow once again.”

Here nerd!

is

one

smart

Much like the unique upper and lower peninsulas that define Michigan, our rich history of welcoming immigrants has shaped us culturally and economically.

Gov. Snyder pointed out, “One of the best examples of cultural enrichment is in East Lansing, at Michigan State University. The thousands of foreign-born students and faculty at MSU help make it a dynamic, progressive community. And many of those go on to become entrepreneurs who contribute greatly to our economy.”

Perhaps one of Michigan’s greatest strengths is our diversity. Our relentless positive action governor says that for the United States to be competitive, “it’s critical that we implement an effective system for legal immigration.”

Can you feel my pain? Middle-aged women sure can Looking for someone to feel your pain?

Talk to a woman in her fifties. According to a new study of more than 75,000 adults, women in that age group are more empathic than men of the same age and than younger or older people.

“Overall, late middleaged adults were higher in both of the aspects of empathy that we measured,” said Sara Konrath, assistant research professor at the University of Michigan Institute for Social Research and co-author of an article on age and empathy forthcoming in the Journals of Gerontology: Psychological and Social Sciences.

“They reported that they were more likely to react emotionally to the experiences of others, and they were also more likely to try to understand how things looked from the perspective of others.”

Konrath and colleagues Ed O’Brien and Linda Hagen of U-M and Daniel

Grühn of North Carolina State University analyzed data on empathy from three separate large samples of American adults, two of which were taken from the nationally representative General Social Survey.

They found consistent evidence of an inverted U-shaped pattern of empathy across the adult life span, with younger and older adults reporting less empathy and middle-aged adults reporting more.

According to O’Brien, U-M doctoral student in social psychology, this pattern may result because increasing levels of cognitive abilities and experience improve emotional functioning during the first part of the adult life span, while cognitive declines diminish emotional functioning in the second half.

But more research is needed.

We can only hope each side is serious and will strive to find a thoughtful solution. We must never lose sight that the statistics that are tossed about in the immigration debate represent real people — someone’s grandmother or grandfather, mom and dad, sisters and brothers and the lives that hang in the balance.

Gov. Snyder has repeatedly called for preserving high-level science, tech, engineering and math talent in Michigan by enacting immigrant-friendly policies that allow qualified students or entrepreneurs to stay in Michigan on special immigration visas.

Let’s acknowledge Gov. Snyder for bucking the ugly rhetoric that often comes from his side of the political aisle. In standing up for diversity and immigration reform, he is leading the way to a better understanding that it is people from other lands that continue to help build America and Michigan.

Immigration reform will be a major element in helping reinvent our state and nation going forward.

The people of the world need to know they are welcome in Michigan — because they are!

Tom Watkins served the citizens of Michigan as state superintendent of schools, 2002-05. He is a US/China business and educational consultant.

He can be reached at tdwatkins88@gmail.com.

Flu hotline

As influenza sweeps our region and nation, many people are wondering if their symptoms are the flu and want to know their best options for treatment. Should they stay home and tough it out? Go to their doctor’s office? Or rush to the nearest emergency center?

To help area residents identify flu symptoms and select a treatment option, Beaumont Health System has launched a free, community Flu Hotline.

Staffed by Beaumont registered nurses, the hotline is a toll-free, 24-houra-day community resource for timely, accurate information about flu symptoms and when and where to seek medical attention.

The Flu Hotline (888) 375-4161. For more information about the seasonal flu, go to cdc.gov/flu.

Advertise 313-9635522

February 13-19, 2013

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news

The proportion of working Americans with pensions of any kind has steadily decreased since 2001, according to a University of Michigan analysis that suggests trouble ahead for U.S. seniors.

“We expected to see a decline in the percent of employed workers with defined benefit pensions,” said U-M economist Frank Stafford.

“Everyone knows they’re a thing of the past.

But we also found that participation in defined contribution plans declined, going from 33 percent of employed men in 1999-2001 to 30 percent in 2007-2009. And that is the opposite of what we expected.”

Stafford is the coauthor with Thomas Bridges, a U-M graduate student in economics, of a working paper titled “At the Corner of Main and Wall Street: Family Pension Responses to Liquidity Change and Perceived Returns.”

In the paper, they analyze data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics, a survey of a nationally representative sample of U.S. households conducted by the U-M Institute for Social Research since 1968.

During the period studied, researchers interviewed the same families every two years, obtaining a continuous look at how changes in the U.S. economy, notably the economic declines after 9/11 and the Great Recession of 2008, affected how families handled their IRAs, annuities, 401(k)s and other financial sources of defined contribution pensions.

They found that many families treat these retirement accounts as sources of ready cash for current needs and discretionary spending rather than as sources of income in retirement. About 6 percent of young adults ages 25 to 44 reported cashing in some of their pension money.

And at age 59½ — when early withdrawal penalties are removed — about 15 percent withdrew from their accounts, a proportion about equal to the rate of withdrawal those ages 65 and 66.

Withdrawals jumped in 2003, after the 9/11 stock market crash, briefly stabilized and then jumped again from 2007 to 2009.

“If you leave people

Film on civil rights activist to debut Whitney Young, Jr., the civil rights champion who negotiated with top leaders of industry and government to create greater opportunities for minorities, is the subject of a new documentary, “The Powerbroker: Whitney Young’s Fight For Civil Rights.”

The film debuts on “Independent Lens,” hosted by Stanley Tucci, on Monday, Feb. 18, at 10 p.m. Narrated by actress Alfre Woodard.

“The Powerbroker: Whitney Young’s Fight For Civil Rights” is executive produced by Young’s niece, Emmy Award-winning journalist Bonnie Boswell, and produced by Boswell, her son, Taylor Hamilton, and Christine Khalafian.

Interviews with Dorothy Height, Ossie Davis, Howard Zinn, Donald Rumsfeld, Julian Bond, Vernon Jordan, John Lewis, Kenneth Chenault and others are feartured.

“Indpedent Lens” is an Emmy Award-winning weekly series airing on PBS. The Civil Rights Movement brought to the fore an array of activists, including Young, Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, Jesse Jackson and Ralph Abernathy, among many others.

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

February 13-19, 2013

Trouble ahead: Fewer have retirement funds, more raid them to their own devices, it’s tempting for them to use this money before they retire,” Stafford said. “Our data show that they’re withdrawing money for reasons ranging from out-of-pocket medical expenses to home repairs of more than $10,000 like a new roof, to discretionary expenses like remodeling their kitchens and installing granite countertops.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that some families

are using these accounts to obtain tax advantages, or to shelter assets from student loan applications.”

By far the most common reason for withdrawals appears to be mortgage loan distress, according to Stafford.

Those who are behind on their mortgages, or are afraid they are going to fall behind, are raiding their retirement accounts to stay above water.

“That’s the problem with defined contribution pensions,” Stafford said.

“With defined benefit plans, people cannot get their hands on the money before they retire. Now as GM, Ford and many state and local governments are offering ‘conversions’ of defined benefit pensions, offering lump sums to retirees in place of monthly pension checks, this problem is going to get bigger.

“Our analysis confirms what everyone suspected—people are using their retirement accounts to help when their kids are going to college or their spouse loses a job.

Sure, many employers make participation mandatory but you can subvert your employer’s mandate by borrowing against the money for any number of reasons. So allowing pre-retirement access to these funds is a

Page A-6

problem.”

Funding for the analysis was provided by the Michigan Retirement Research Center at the U-M Institute for Social Research. The Panel Study of Income Dynamics is funded by the National Science Foundation and by the National Institute on Aging: http://www. mrrc.isr.umich.edu/publications/papers/pdf/ wp282.pdf.

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section B

Letter from the president

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

David Girodat

Fifth Third celebrates arts and culture during Black History Month T

What a monumental year to be celebrating Black History Month. When Carter Woodson began rewriting the history books to include the contributions of Black Americans to our national story, he could not imagine that just 80 some years later the sitting president presiding over this celebration would be an incumbent president starting his second term who is a Black man. Only 17 presidents have earned a second term in office.

Dr. Woodson would have been very proud, along with the long line of freedom advocates who struggled throughout history to make good on the promise of America’s Declaration of Independence, that all men are created equal.

This year, on the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 and the anniversary of the 1963 March on Washington 100 years later, we will celebrate these significant milestones in the movement for equality in America.

Many people are referring to the Obama presidency as the last chapter on Reconstruction.

As during the Civil War, we are a nation facing extremely uncertain times. We are in need of a unifying force to galvanize America behind an economic plan and a cultural awakening to solve the problems we face. It will require not only good ideas but also a commitment from a broad spectrum of Americans to move forward working together.

It would be easy to look back to assign blame for the mess we find ourselves in and continue the ideological partisan maneuvers that have been a roadblock to progress for many years. I know that, being a banker, we are often pointed at as the instigators of the financial crisis.

And for sure we played a part.

However, now is the time for solutions to problems that cannot only fix the immediate issues we face but also build strong unity behind effective policies for the future.

“It is my hope that the students will be inspired by the performances.

I think it’s important for our kids to see that there are multiple expressions of creativity beyond their common experience.”

hroughout history, African American life has been expressed through words, pictures, sound and movement.

From the repression of slavery and the promise of Reconstruction, to the emergence of Jim Crow, and through the tumultuous times that mark the civil rights era, African American culture flourished and still does. African American art and culture translates and chronicles some of the darkest passages of American history.

Equally, African American creative expression gives voice to the strength, beauty and resilience of a people who were destined to help shape one of the greatest nations in civilization. Works by great African Americans past and present are read, performed and celebrated across the globe.

This Black History Month let us not only celebrate our history, but also let us write a little history of our own.

This year as we recognize Black History Month at Fifth Third Bank, we celebrate the arts and culture of African Americans and its rich contribution to the world. We celebrate the grace and beauty of the prima ballerina and the rhythms of the street corner drummer, the poetry of Poet Laureates and the prose of Pulitzer Prize winners.

During Black History Month, we honor and salute the artists around the globe and across all mediums who share their talent with the world. As we recognize the contribution of Black art and culture, we will also share the legacy with youth in our community.

On Feb. 3, Fifth Third hosted 60 students and chaperones from

See Arts and Culture page B-2

Patricia Van Pelt, Senior vice president, Retail Division, Fifth Third Bank.

safety, housing, human services and green spaces.

“I’ve always believed that this community could be salvaged with the help of supportive partners,” says Mayes.

AN UNLIKELY FIT

This chapter of Black history will really be written as American history. We can make it a proud history. As we come to the other side of this period we will look back and talk about how we pulled together, each dong their part, to save a failing economy, an American auto industry, our housing market, our retirement plans and the future for our children. We have the power to do that by working as one, regaining our confidence and moving step by step toward an America that is returning to its core values.

Fifth Third Bank is on board to do its part. We are lending money throughout Michigan to help keep our industries operating. We are reaching out to homeowners in need to help modify loans before foreclosure. We are developing new financial services products that will meet the needs of our rapidly changing times. If there is a question you have regarding banking, call your nearest Fifth Third Bank. We are there to help. You can go on our website at www.53.com for more information.

February 13-19, 2013

He found one in TechTown President and CEO Leslie Smith, whose conversations with Mayes at the Detroit Regional Chamber’s 2011 Policy Conference sparked what is now recognized as a model urban redevelopment partnership.

She was looking to expand TechTown’s business incubation services and needed

The Motor City Java House is a family-owned and operated business supported by Tynisha Marion, Bretha Marion Rodgers and Principal Owner Alicia Marion George.

Salvaging A City How TechTown’s business support services are transforming Detroit neighborhoods

By Jackie Berg The Brightmoor community is home to a seductive mixture of people, places and possibilities.

You wouldn’t know it at first glance, but this once ugly duckling is getting its swan on.

Like many success stories, its resurgence was sparked by a small group of citizenry who believed that Brightmoor was better than the sum of its parts.

A DECADE OF DISASTER Falling far short on every major indicator required to attract new investment,

Brightmoor’s residents, businesses and job creators had been evacuating its neighborhoods for more than a decade, leaving a disaster area in their wake.

Although nearly 50 percent of Brightmoor’s four square miles were blighted in 2010, its resilient residents held on, buoyed by the efforts of residents including Kirk Mayes, the executive director of the Brightmoor Alliance.

The Alliance, which represents a coalition of nearly 50 organizations, was already working to revitalize the community by addressing issues such as education, jobs,

“With our support, small business owners are now able to maintain a local address, employ local community residents and support local services without abandoning their home base.” – Derrin Leppek to find a spirited community open to the opportunity. Conversely, he was looking for a willing partner to make a heartfelt investment in a neighborhood that many others passed over.

The ‘match’ resulted in a flurry of ambitious activities to spur business and community growth.

SWOT SERVICES Brightmoor businesses offered the opportunity to participate in TechTown’s ‘Tune Up’ business coaching sessions and SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) business analyses are showing dramatic improvements.

See Java House page B-3

community

February 13-19, 2013

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Page B-2

The Power of Value

By Chris Bryant

added tremendous value and enhanced our quality of life in countless ways. This Value. This power-packed includes parents, activists, word has multiple meanings. humanitarians, teachers, Value can be defined as a philanthropists, scientists, specified monetary amount, neighbors, engineers, stua reasonable return, or a dents and the list goes on. moral principle. It can also define the level of respect The good news is that a person receives for their there is value in all of us. usefulness, contribution and Tomorrow’s history is being importance. It is the latter made today. Although a hisdefinition that inspires this tory book may not memorialChris Bryant article. ize your acts of selflessness; those fortunate enough to What is it about certain have crossed your path or people that captures our benefited from your efforts imagination and leaves an know in their hearts that your indelible impression on our life is one filled with value. lives? Why do some become May you become more valuBy Chris Bryant indispensable on a personal able than ever in 2013. and professional level and Brand Strategist are sorely missed when Chris Bryant is a corporate they’re not around? I believe there is a speaker, consultant and chief experisimple answer - they add value. They ence officer for the Bryant Group (forsolve problems, lessen pain, and bring merly Chris Bryant Presents), a firm dediabout a more pleasurable state; some- cated to service and brand excellence. times by just being there. A person of Mr. Bryant honed his expertise with value is committed to using whatever Nordstrom and the Ritz-Carlton Hotel resources, skills, talents and knowledge Company where he served as director they have to make things a little better; of training and organizational effectivebe it at work, home or in their commu- ness and certified company speaker nity. They possess a heart-felt dedication for the Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center. to make a heart-level impact.

His clients now include Chrysler, MadiThat spirit is the very essence of Black son Square Garden, National Football History Month. Among other things, League, Mattel, Nestlé and Wendy’s to February is the perfect time to remem- name a few. For more information visit ber and celebrate the amazing people www.GoBryantGroup.com (some known and unknown) who have

Personal Branding

IFETAYO B. JOHNSON, PHL executive director, informs the public about PHL services.

Project Healthy Living makes wellness easy

2013 spring season runs March 12-May 11 Project Healthy Living (PHL) makes wellness easy to achieve.

This year, PHL will administer public health screenings March 12-May 11 at 49 locations around metro Detroit. PHL offers free and low-cost health screenings for serious illnesses, including diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. Participants can select a convenient location near their home or office and pre-register online via a secure website. All Project Healthy Living events are free and open to the public.

“By making screening easy for people to achieve, we help give them the ability to monitor their health status,” said Ifetayo B. Johnson, executive director of United Health Organization (UHO). At PHL events, participants can be tested for asymptomatic diseases (“silent killers”) that do not have symptoms.

The PHL hotline is flooded daily by callers who want to know how and where they can get free and low-cost testing for their families. PHL offers free testing services including height and weight measurement, grip strength, body mass index (BMI), hearing, vision, blood oxygen levels, counseling and referral. For a nominal fee, blood testing and analysis is provided

by Quest Diagnostics.

Metropolitan Health Services will offer competitively priced bone density testing and ultrasounds measuring blockage of the arteries and EKGs of the heart.

Highlights include: Project Healthy Living kickoff at Macomb Mall Shopping Center in Roseville, March 12–14.

Helping Our Own (HOW) Alliance event for families facing challenges at Bert’s Place in Eastern Market, March 16.

Healthy Kids Day at the Boll Family YMCA and the Lakeshore Family YMCA on April 27.

The HOW Alliance will provide a variety of services to families facing unemployment, homelessness or are uninsured. The Alliance will offer health screenings, clothing closets, beauty and barber services, hot meals, entertainment, massages, toiletry kits and much more. Tax deductible donations of clothing, toiletry items, new underwear for children, women, or men, children’s books and toys, and funding for blood work can be delivered to Bert’s Place, 2727 Russell, Detroit, on Feb. 23, March 2 and March 9 between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Checks can be made out to United Health Organization.

Project Healthy Living is volunteer driven. Over 2000 volunteers, both medical and non-medical personnel, are needed to assist UHO in delivering the high quality level of

Arts and Culture From page B-1

Winans Academy of Performing Arts and the Detroit International Academy for Young Women in Detroit to attend the matinee performance of the Dance Theater of Harlem at the Michigan Opera House. It was a rare opportunity for some students who had never even been to downtown Detroit.

In addition to Sunday’s matinee performance, on Jan. 31, Fifth Third hosted 14 middle school students and teachers from Detroit West Preparatory Academy to attend a performance demonstration with the Dance Theater of Harlem.

The students watched a sample performance, received professional tips and advice from dancers in the Dance Theater of Harlem troupe and participated in a question and answer session.

The Dance Theater of Harlem was founded in 1969 by Arthur Mitchell and Karel Shook in a garage on 152nd Street in Harlem, New York.

From the beginning of its history, the critically acclaimed dance company has been a major force in contemporary dance.

Thousands of dancers and students have gone through the doors of the Dance Theater of Harlem.

Some have gone on to outstanding careers, dancing in every corner of the world.

On March 22, Fifth Third will host students from Ellington Elementary School (Detroit) to attend a performance demonstration with the Alvin Ailey Dance Company.

The company, also formed in New York, is

scheduled to perform at the Michigan Opera House from March 23-25.

Additional students from Pontiac High School (Pontiac) and Detroit School of the Arts (Detroit) will attend the March 23rd performance at the Detroit Opera House.

service Project Healthy Living participants have grown accustomed to.

UHO has partnered with local colleges to provide medical and non-medical volunteer personnel.

Those desiring to pre-register for Project Healthy Living’s testing and analysis services are advised to do so at least one week in advance of the date they plan to attend.

Participants can order and pay for blood analysis and other tests using FastTrack, Project Healthy Living’s secure, online registration system. Now there’s a new PHL application for smart phones, courtesy of IMAX, Inc. For more information, visit the new PHL website at www.ProjectHealthyLiving.org. For updates, join the Project Healthy Living community on Facebook or follow UHO Booster on Twitter. Beginning Feb. 25, the Project Healthy Living hotline, (313) 531-9108, will operate weekdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The 2013 Project Healthy Living season is sponsored by United Health Organization, Rosedale Park Baptist Church, Quest Diagnostics Laboratory, Fifth Third Bank, St. John Providence Health System, Loving Life Healthy Foods, Henry Ford Health System, IMAX Printing, and WXYZ-TV Scripps Broadcasting Company.

Bank helps distressed mortgage borrowers find next job Fifth Third Bank has teamed up with NextJob, a nationwide reemployment solutions company, to offer an industry-first program in which the Bank pays for unemployed mortgage borrowers to get job search assistance, including one-on-one dedicated coaching, weekly webinars and online job search software.

The program was piloted in 2012 with unemployed Fifth Third customers who were in serious risk of default on their mortgages. On average, the individuals had been out of work for 22 months. In the pilot, nearly 40 percent were fully employed after six months and, as a result, the pilot was expanded.

One of the program’s successful participants, now working in the insurance industry said, “I enjoyed working with my coaches. If it hadn’t

been for their help, I probably would still be unemployed. They gave me such hope and empowered me in so many ways. My self-esteem was very low when I first started working with NextJob, and they showed me there was a position out there for me if I believed in myself again and used their tools.”

Fifth Third Bank is incorporating this program into the way it does business going forward. It is the first financial institution to offer this type of assistance to mortgage customers. While we are sharing this news via public relations efforts, a limited amount of print advertising will debut later this month featuring this program so community members are aware of the Company’s commitment to helping people. Over time, other ads will focus on different aspects of the

WHY IS THERE A PERSON IN THE PLACE WHERE THE LOGO SHOULD BE? Well, why not? After all, you don’t go to

Alvin Ailey founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Company in 1958.

The dance troupe of seven dancers and a choreographer became a resident at the 51st Street YWCA’s Clark Center for the Performing Arts where Ailey choreographed “Revelations,” one of his most famous pieces. Ailey’s eclectic style combined a variety of dance techniques that allowed him to create pieces that best expressed the theatrical moment instead of narrowly focusing on one particular discipline in a choreographed work.

a logo with your banking needs. Has a

After Ailey’s passing in 1989, the most wellknown member of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Company, Judith Jamison, took on the role of artistic director and restaged classic pieces from the company’s repertory.

toward paying down your Fifth Third

“It is my hope that the students will be inspired by the performances. I think it’s important for our kids to see that there are multiple expressions of creativity beyond their common experience,” said Patricia Van Pelt, senior vice president, Retail Division, Fifth Third Bank.

“The grace, beauty and discipline that the dancers display demonstrates how far creativity can challenge boundaries and how far determination can take a person that possesses a creative impulse.”

Bank’s Financial Empowerment focus.

“Up to half of mortgage delinquencies are due to job loss,” said Steven Alonso, executive vice president and head of the Consumer Bank.

“Fifth Third Bank has demonstrated an inspiring level of customer commitment,” said John Courtney, CEO of NextJob. “They understand that neither party benefits from a foreclosure. Job loss, followed by the loss of one’s home, is severely damaging to individuals and families.”

If you are a Fifth Third mortgage customer and are unemployed you may be able to receive help from NextJob. For more information, visit our website at www.53.com/financial-empowerment or visit NextJob’s website for more information at www. nextjob.com.

logo ever helped you figure out how to pay your mortgage off faster? Or provided investment guidance for planning your retirement? Does a logo understand your fears about taking risks in this economy?

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community

February 13-19, 2013

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Java House

Pictured (from left) are Stephanie Evans, Hiram Jackson, Bryan Moya, Len Krichko, Drew Dickens, John Fikany, Keyisha Manassa and Kirk Shields.

Boys and Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan Selects Andrew Dickens as ‘Youth of the Year’

By Amber L. Bogins For over 60 years the Boys and Girls Club has been a safe haven for youth in Detroit and nationwide, needing a place where they can grow and develop. A place to nurture and support them between the hours that they get out of school and their parents get off work; a place on Saturday to play game of basketball and develop life-long friendships. There is no shortage of negative headlines in the news, and our youth need a place away from drugs and alcohol and family problems; a place to find their legs and build their identity.

Every month, local clubs recognize an outstanding member who is taking advantage of the club’s support system and is making a difference in their life and the lives of others. They have improved their grades, done good deeds in the community and have shown overall personal growth. Those individuals then compete for to be Southeastern Michigan’s Youth of the Year.

Andrew “Drew” Dickens at the end of the year a representative from each club (10 in Southeast Michigan) is selected to compete in the districts Youth of the Year Competition. It functions as an incentive system.

This year’s, Youth of the Year is Andrew “Drew” Dickens, age 17, from the Diehl club in Detroit. Drew has been a Club member for 11 years and is a senior at Old Redford Academy High School where he is on the Dean’s List.

Drew plans to study Civil Engineering at Western Michigan University in the fall.

Keyisha Manassa, age 18 placed Second and Bryan Moya, age 17 placed Third.

Len Krichko, President and CEO of the Boys and Girls Club SE MI had this to say about the program, “Our professional team does an excellent job of getting to the kids and building a support system. [And helping] the youth channel excessive [negative] energy into positive energy. [Boys and Girls Club] is vital component for kids to have something constructive and positive after school.”

“Andrew is an exceptional young person with a great future ahead of him,” Hiram Jackson, CEO of Real Times Media, board member and judge for Boys and Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan.

As the winner, Andrew Dickens will go on to compete in the State competition in April. There is also a 5 Regional winners who will compete for the National “Youth of the Year”, and have an opportunity to meet President Barack Obama.

The Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year is a national program. Individual clubs select members of the month, and

Congratulations Andrew Dickens and Good Luck!

Page B-3

From page B-1

In a kind of ‘Restaurant Impossible’ hub,” he states. reset, TechTown’s Director of SWOT Now, Brightmoor businesses can access City Programs Derrin Leppek headed off free seminars like Motor City Java’s upthe closure of Spice Restaurant, which coming small business tax forum, which had planned to shutter its doors the day will allow the area’s small businesses of his impromptu site visit. access to a professional tax advisor free “It’s easy for failing businesses to of cost. become so mired in debt and debilitat- And residents without Internet support ing day-to-day challenges, that they are free to leverage its Wi-Fi. start to miss market opportunities,” notes Leppek who met Spice Restaurant BORDERLESS BUSINESS owners as they were preparing to move Equally important, according to equipment out of the restaurant in order Leppek, is the need to help businessto close down. es expand beyond their geographical Upon investigation, Leppek identified boundaries. that the husband and wife restaurant “When you have the operators could still provide number of vacant propmany of the same products erties that exist in and services without Brightmoor today, the costly traditional you have to bricks and mortar market beyond foundation that was traditional comkilling their profit pomunity bortential. ders,” he states.

He helped the part“We provide the ners locate and lease a kind of technical facility to support catersupport necessary for ing services at a fraction businesses to service customof the cost of operating their ers regardless their home adfull-service restaurant while dress — from supporting digital providing them with the markettransactions to product packaging ing support necessary to sustain and shipping.” their new busiWith our supness model. ou wouldn’t kno w it at first port, small busiTogether, the ness owners are glance, but this once ugly two successfully now able to mainoperate a Brightduckling is getting its swan on. tain a local admoor-based cadress, employ tering business local community called Chef Charles Catering. residents and support local services “It worked, ” exclaim the happy busi- without abandoning their home base.” ness owners Charles and Nina Walker, who remain committed to Brightmoor PROVEN PORTFOLIO neighborhood.

TechTown’s ability to lend legitimacy With one company saved, and two to entrepreneurial ecosystems makes it less community members heading for the perfect entity not only to start doing a new address, TechTown continues to this kind of business outreach work in seek out other Brightmoor businesses Detroit’s outlying neighborhoods, but in need of the kind of custom support also to set the pace for other organizaservices TechTown provides. tions who might be interested in similar efforts.

SMALL TWEAKS YIELD BIG “TechTown has a strong track record RETURNS and proven portfolio of turnarounds— Leppek found a taker in Motor City Java House, a 40-seat coffee house that those who have witnessed our growth didn’t fully grasp how to leverage the in downtown and Midtown have seen our success,” notes Tech Town presicommunity support it attracted. dent and CEO Smith.

“Through our business analysis, we Smith is proud of the immediate discovered that although the Java House positive outcomes the Tech Town team supported a lot of consumer activities, was able to deliver to Brightmoor and is they were not broadcasting them well to eager to replicate the model in other Dearea residents,” notes Leppek. troit neighborhoods.

Today, Leppek is helping Motor City “Thriving small businesses within Java House Owner Alicia George to build the neighborhoods of Detroit are critical a website, broadcast event information to the economic health of their respecand reach customers through print, tive communities, each of which has a digital and other affordable media plat- direct impact on the health of the city as forms. a whole,” Smith said. “Economic incluLeppek also identified opportunities sion is central to urban revitalization; to connect the dots between area resi- therefore, our work in the neighbordents and businesses to fill community hoods of Detroit is not feel-good work; it is a critical component of our broader voids. obligation to provide economic opportu“When we discovered that Brightmoor nities for all Detroiters. Only then will did not have a business or community we be able to declare a full recovery in resource center to support activities the city of Detroit.” from applying for jobs and researching A call to Tech Town today may lead small business support services to submitting loan applications, we purchased to a promising tomorrow in many of and installed one so that Motor City Detroit’s neighborhoods. Who can argue Java House could become a free service against that?

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46577_N3010091E_R1.indd 1

2/7/13 4:57 PM

Hiram E. Jackson Publisher

A Real Times Newspaper 479 Ledyard – Detroit, MI 48201

(313) 963-5522 Fax 963-8788 e-mail:chronicle4@aol.com

JACKIE BERG Chief Marketing Officer BANKOLE THOMPSON Senior Editor cornelius a. fortune Managing Editor

SAMUEL LOGAN Publisher 1933-2011 JOHN H. SENGSTACKE Chairman-Emeritus 1912-1997 LONGWORTH M. QUINN Publisher-Emeritus 1909-1989

February 13-19, 2013

Page B-4

Mark Valentine’s Day by battling domestic violence

By Susan Shaer Valentine’s Day was taken over long ago by cards and flowers, candy and dinners accompanied by gifts. It is now a cash cow holiday for merchandisers. In addition, for many it has become a day to honor women and girls in a fresh way.

V-Day, introduced to the world by Eve Ensler in 1998, demands an end to violence against women and girls.

Ask anyone and they would no doubt admit that they would love to be loved every day of the year, not just on one day. Ask anyone if they think violence is a way to show love and the answer would be no. Yet, one in three women on the planet will be raped or beaten in her lifetime. That amounts to more than one billion women and girls. These are your loved ones, friends, family, and those you will never know but for whom we all care.

This Valentine’s Day, the V-Day movement is sponsoring One Billion Rising to spread awareness. One suggestion for all those participating in this V-Day Rising is to send a letter to lawmakers demanding that they prioritize legislation that protects women and girls from violence.

Our U.S. Congress considers how your tax dollars are spent. Even President Obama, in his inaugural address, exhorted that, “You and I, as citizens, have the power to set this country’s course. You and I, as citizens, have the obligation to shape the debates of our time — not only with the votes we cast, but with the voices we lift in defense of our most ancient values and enduring ideals.”

You might be weary of the sequester, fiscal cliff, deficit and debt palaver. But this is your chance to have a say in what you want saved in the federal budget.

Many programs that protect women and girls are in that budget. Right now, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is being debated. VAWA programs have enhanced federal, tribal, state and local responses to domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence and stalking, and the Family Violence Prevention and Services and Victims of Crime Acts support lifesaving emergency shelters and services for domestic violence victims and other crime victims.

Does anyone doubt that domestic violence shelters, law enforcement, courts, rape crisis centers, children’s services, prevention, community outreach, and other state and local programs that provide services for victims and families are needed? Does anyone think that states or charities alone can organize, pay for and deliver all these services? In fact, states and communities depend on the federal funds to help support their local efforts. All of this is on the chopping block.

If we could end violence against women and girls, that would eliminate the need for these services and their costs. Even President Obama’s budget for 2012-13 is $26 million less than is needed to cover the needs, according to the Campaign for Funding to End Domestic and Sexual Violence.

For every service and cost today there must be a reduction in spending or a new tax. A new tax is unlikely at best, but reductions are possible. The Pentagon has made headlines for being out of control in its spending habits: cost overruns are legendary; a lack of an audit is incredible; unneeded weapons systems astonish us; high ranking military with huge staffs loom over the needs of veterans and force structure.

The problem is that Pentagon contractor lobbyists and CEOs are protecting their own oversized incomes and driving dollars to be spent on costly Cold War era weapons that even the Pentagon and military leaders dismiss as outdated and unnecessary. Instead, we need a smart defense that is sustainable and addresses 21st century security needs. With this smarter, fiscally responsible approach at the Pentagon, we could save dollars we need to invest in ending violence against women and girls.

On Valentine’s Day, I’ll join with the one billion people around the world, men and women, boys and girls, raising our voices against violence. I’ll also be calling on my Congressional representation to make responsible budgeting choices that support 21st century security needs including an end to violence against women and girls.

Susan Shaer is the executive director of Women’s Action for New Directions (WAND) and cofounder of Win Without War.

Hey, Washington, why the silence on bringing billions back?

By Victoria Bruce

ber, CEOs of the biggest multinationals came to the White House for closeddoor meetings. Two weeks later, a deal was drafted in the Senate, passed by Congress and signed by Obama that had a total of zero revenue from multinational corporations to help our staggering deficit.

Last January, when our documentary film, “We’re Not Broke,” premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, we were elated. The film’s message about how multinational corporations are cheating the American people out of desperately needed tax revenue to The fact that the New the tune of $100 billion a Year’s fiscal cliff avoidance year was sure to reach the package completely ignored masses. The night after it any source of revenue from screened for the first time, multinational tax dodgers we gathered around the teleis an abomination. With vision and watched Presithe country scrounging for dent Obama’s 2012 State revenue only from the very, of the Union address. Our Victoria Bruce very wealthy, this “deal” acjaws dropped. “No American company should be able to avoid paying tually increases the deficit by $4 trillion its fair share of taxes by moving jobs and over the next decade. There wasn’t a profits overseas,” he said to a round of single mention of closing corporate tax tepid congressional applause. “From loopholes, ending deferral (the practice now on, every multinational company that lets multinationals wait until they should have to pay a basic minimum repatriate their profits to pay tax) or tax.” It was as if our president had been making them bring back the $1.5 trillion at our film screening and was aghast they’ve been stockpiling untaxed during the past eight years. Nothing was menfrom what he’d learned. tioned about this enormous rip-off that That speech was the last time we leaves domestic business scrambling to heard anything from The White House compete while multinational corporaabout making billion-dollar corporations tions are laughing all the way to their pay their fair share. Obama campaigned shareholder meetings. in 2008 with the promise to close corporate tax loopholes. And as a U.S. sena- Instead, middle-class families will see tor from Illinois, he’d been a co-signer less in their paychecks and those living on Sen. Carl Levin’s CUT Loopholes Act. really well will take a much bigger hit.

But in his first four years as president, All the while billion-dollar corporations Obama made zero attempts to reign in continue to ask for more favors, more the tax dodging of GE, Verizon, Apple, tax breaks, and what’s even more obPfizer or any of the biggest 300 com- scene, a “territorial tax system” —a perpanies that squirrel profits offshore to manent tax holiday where they’ll never avoid paying income tax to the U.S. Trea- pay any tax on the profits that they book sury. While multinational corporations offshore. Now that the fiscal cliff has experienced record profits, the Ameri- been averted temporarily, it’s time for can people suffered a recession that ri- Obama to close his ear to the Big Business lobby and open it to the American valed the great depression. people.

Last year saw the most public light ever shed tax inequality, with a big part Victoria Bruce is co-director/producof the Occupy Wall St. movement de- er of “We’re Not Broke,” a film about voted to calling out tax dodgers. Still, how multinational corporations are Washington remained silent on chang- cheating the American people out of ing the broken system. In mid-Decem- desperately needed tax revenue.

How To Write Us:

The Michigan Chronicle encourages letters from readers. Expressed opinions must bear the writer’s signature, address and phone number (only the names will published with the letters).

Write: Reader’s Speak, Michigan Chronicle, 479 Ledyard, Detroit, MI 48201 or email the editor at chronicle4@aol.com

None of the above

By Bill Johnson The 2013 Detroit city election primary marathon is about to get under way. A slew of potential candidates will pick up nominating petitions for mayor. Hundreds could vie for the nine City Council seats — seven elected from districts and two at-large.

It’s not surprising that the field promises to be crowded given the growing dissatisfaction with the disgraceful performance of the current crop of elected officials. The state of affairs is so bad that it deserves a ballot designation that stimulates — at least for most incumbents — “none of the above.”

Typically incumbents have a fouryear affliction of anxiety about their reelection prospects. The lead-up to past elections historically motivated politicians to take actions to appease potential voters. Detroiters became the beneficiaries of the quadrennial renewal of vitality. But soon after basking in the afterglow of this temporary attention, voters sank back into complacency. The kind of chaos that exists today quickly became the norm, even after a seemingly gifted mayor and slate of council newcomers assumed office.

Over the last four years, the new City Council yielded to the old ways and established a less than glowing record of setting public policy priorities or achieving financial objectives. On the Belle Isle deal turned debacle, the council’s conduct is particularly disqualifying. Councilpersons James Tate, Saunteel Jenkins and Gary Brown were the only ones to vote to move forward with the rescue plan proposed by Gov. Rick Snyder.

The latest annual audit pegs the city’s accumulated general-fund deficit at nearly $327 million, $130 million more than the shortfall the city reported for the 2010-11 fiscal year. But despite a consent agreement with the state, and more than halfway into the fiscal year, the mayor and council continue to drag their feet on ending the spending addiction, daring the governor to send the city into bankruptcy.

Residents are gunned down in their homes or on the street and the city is constantly aflame. However, the council more closely resembles potted plants than pro-active responders to the crises.

Yet its members continue to enjoy their power, perks and privileges.

Long-suffering Detroiters who don’t vote with their feet, routinely complain that too often their choice is between the lesser of the evils. Having “none

of the above” on the ballot could be a “safety valve” by which elections could be nullified if voters don’t think any of the competing candidates are deserving.

The door would open for “non-traditional” candidates with fresh ideas to run. The “power of incumbency” would be less of a potent force with do-nothing politicians who might have to actually check the pulse of voters on critical issues to get elected.

If “none of the above” emerged victorious, a new election would be held.

Of course, rescheduling elections until voters settled on a suitable candidate(s) would be an additional cost. But based on the city’s sorry political history, the occasional added expense might be worthwhile if it led to better candidates, better campaigns and better results.

I can already hear the chorus of dissent from those who see “none of the above” as draconian. Elections, the argument goes, are about choosing someone to govern you, not about registering a protest. And voters already have the right to show their discontent by staying home. Increasingly, though, the pool of desirable and qualified candidates is shrinking. And apathy already rules the political roost It remains to be seen whether any of the mayoral or council challengers will prove to be worthy. But while there is hope for good public policy and strong leadership in the stirring of political competition, it’s not automatic.

The active interest and participation of voters are essential.

If “none of the above” isn’t designated — or practiced — come November, this much we can count on: Detroiters will get no more or no less than they deserve from the choices they make.

How did Ray Lewis get away with murder?

(Second of two parts)

By Dion Rabouin The National Football League — the same league that fined Lewis $250,000 in 2001 for what then-commissioner Paul Tagliabue called his “unlawful obstruction related to a very serious occurrence” — is rumored to be considering Lewis as an adviser to Commissioner Roger Goodell after he steps off the playing field for the final time.

Goodell called Lewis, “a tremendous voice of reason” earlier this year.

ants Ray Lewis is the ultimate warrior.

He is a leader who has the magnetism of a Baptist preacher and the tenacity of a starving man fighting to the death for one last meal.

During a Ravens game years ago, Phil Simms told a story that during a practice he’d seen Lewis angry at his teammates because he was the only one chasing a receiver who had broken free from the defense and was about to score a touchdown. Lewis told every member of the defense do 100 pushups. And they did.

This is a man whose sins don’t just include a possible double homicide in 2001. Lewis has also been publicly accused — though never convicted — of violence in several previous incidents.

A lot of guys spout platitudes about God and winning and leaving it all on the field, but somehow after 17 years in the game Lewis manages to make all of us stand up and believe. It’s not so much inspiring as it is implausible.

And New England Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker’s wife recently reminded us all, “6 kids 4 wives. Acquitted for murder. Paid a family off. Yay! What a hall of fame player! A true role model!” [sic].

His “glory to God” and “no weapon formed against this team shall prosper” rhetoric has been heard before from athletes at the top and bottom of every sport and at every position. But there’s something different about Ray.

The discussion about Lewis is one that would be profoundly different if he played baseball. There, the sanctimonious writers wring their hands at any conceived affront to the sanctity of the game. This is a group of men so high in their ivory towers that they have refused admission to the Hall of Fame to the game’s all-time leader in hits and home runs because of personal failings.

Middle linebacker isn’t a glamorous position, but every time the Ravens play, before, during and after the game, we wanted to know where number 52 was and what he was doing. Whether he was dancing, tackling or preaching, Ray Lewis gave it everything. He wore his heart on his sleeve and he never for a second seemed jaded, self-aggrandizing or cynical.

But football is different. We see football players and baseball players differently for two main reasons. First, most distinguished baseball analysts are journalists rather than former players.

Second, football is so much more physically taxing and daunting that journalists often defer or soften their judgments because they understand that they could never in a million years do what these men do for a living.

His ability to defy age, not just by playing at the highest level but by maintaining an unquestioned leadership of the Baltimore Ravens, from the front office to the practice squad, has been unrivaled by anyone in recent memory.

But that’s not what has washed away his sins.

In a world of blood sport combat-

We love Ray Lewis because we understand that what we all got to watch him do was special. Because he was bigger than football

community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

February 13-19, 2013

Page B-5

Community Calendar February 12 - 17 ‘FELA!’ Musical Performance 8:00 p.m., Music Hall Center for Performing Arts 349 Madison “Fela!” is the musical based on the life of groundbreaking African composer, performer and activist Fela AnikulapoKuti. This run will feature Michelle Williams , the Grammy winner and former Destiny’s Child member, who will play Sandra Isadore. Sandra is the love interest of Fela Kuti.

For more information call (313) 8878500 Cost $30.00 and up

February 14:

Valentine’s Day Mix and Mingle Gospel Skating Party Skate World of Troy 2825 E. Maple Rd. A fun and clean way to celebrate Valentines’ Day while skating to your favorite gospel recordings.

For more information call (313) 5504799 Cost: $10.00 Valentine’s Day Love & Happiness Family Concert 6:00 - 8:30 p.m., The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History 315 E. Warren Avenue Concert featuring Grammy Awardwinning singer, songwriter and producer Gordon Chambers and Detroit’s own Vickie Winans For more information call (313) 4945800 Cost: Free and open to the public

‘The Vagina Monologues’

7:00 - 9:00 p.m., The Recovery Room 13330 E. 10 Mile Rd. Warren.

The award-winning play is based on V-Day founder/playwright Eve Ensler’s interviews with more than 200 women.

With humor and grace the piece celebrates women’s sexuality and strength. Through this play and the liberation of this one word, countless women throughout the world have taken control of their bodies and their lives. For more than 12 years, “The Vagina Monologues” has given

voice to experiences and feelings not previously exposed in public.

For more information visit www. detroitrises.org Cost: $25 ‘Detroit Loves Cinema: From Woodward Avenue to Hollywood Boulevard’ 6:00 p.m.- 12:00 a.m., Detroit Film Theatre at the DIA 5200 Woodward Avenue What better way to spend Valentine’s Day than with the exclusive Academy Award-nominated film shorts at the Detroit Film Theatre, a walk down the red carpet and a hot after party at the renovated Detroit Historical Museum?

With live entertainment, appetizers, drinks, great company, glitz and glamour and 600 friends old and new, where else can you find such energy and fun in metro Detroit on Valentine’s Day? For ticket information visit www. detroitlovescinema.org Cost: $25 Wayne County Community College Global Conversations Series 11:00 a.m. WC3 Northwest Campus 8200 W. Outer Drive A conversation with activist John W. Hardy about the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s For more information call (313) 4962634 Free and open to the public

February 15

The Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce presents Global Works: BiPartisan Solutions to Help Underserved Communities Achieve Gentrification.

12:00 - 1:30 p.m., St. Regis Hotel 3071 W Grand Blvd Keynote speaker, Ambassador Andrew J. Young For more information call (313) 3093316 The Secret Society of Twisted Storytellers hosted by Satori Shakoor 8:00 – 10:00 p.m., The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History 315 E. Warren Avenue Come enjoy and listen as storytellers share their off the beaten path stories

with thought provoking twists and turns. Come and be inspired to share your own personal story.

For ticket information visit www.

SecretStorytellers.com or call (313) 744- 6037 Cost $25

An in-depth roundtable and community discussion interpreting the historic importance and symbolic meaning of our nation’s first African American president and its impact on minority participation in electoral politics. Moderated by Bankole Thompson, senior editor of the Michigan Chronicle For more information call (313) 4945800 Free and open to the public

February 16

Dream Team of Clean Comedy II 7:00 p.m., Millennium Center of Southfield 15600 J.L. Hudson Come have a night of fun with familyfriendly comedy, featuring comedian Broderick as seen on the Stellar Awards and Trinity Broadcasting Network For ticket information call (313) 9425931

Wayne County Community College Global Conversations Series 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., WC3 Downtown Detroit Campus 1001 W. Fort Street Celebrate African American History Month with Kimberly Simmons as she presents the story, “A Family Legacy of Freedom,” of her great-grandmother’s 1000 mile journey to freedom For more information call (313) 4962634 Free and open to the public

Children’s Make, Say and Play Hour Noon - 1:00 p.m., Orientation TheaterDetroit 315 E. Warren Avenue Every Saturday in the month of February bring the kids to enjoy an hour of storytelling, performances and workshops. Along with the new hands-on exhibit, “Inspiring Minds: African Americans in Science and Technology,” there’s never been a better time for your children to explore the Wright museum.

For more information call (313) 4945800

February 21 and 22

Musical performance by Dionne Farris with Russell Gunn 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., Music Hall Center for Performing Arts 349 Madison Come enjoy a performance from Dionne Farris, an American female R&B/soul musician who sang on three songs with the hip-hop group Arrested Development.

For more information call (313) 8878500

“W.E.B. Du Bois: A Biography in Four Voices” 2:00 - 6:00 p.m., The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History 315 E. Warren Avenue Liberation Film Series presents a free screening of W.E.B. Du Bois: A Biography in Four Voices, followed by a discussion with one of America’s most important, yet unknown intellectualactivists, Dr. William Strickland For more information Call (313) 4945800

February 23

“Phunny Business: A Black Comedy” Film Screening 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., Charles Wright Museum of African American History 315 E. Warren The film tells the story of Chicago’s first Black owned comedy club. The club showcased the talents of up and coming comediians such as Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer, Jamie Foxx and Chris Rock just to name a few For more information call (313) 4945800 General Admission $15 members $12

February 19:

Visions of Our 44th President & Voting Rights Panel Discussion 7:00 - 9:00 p.m., the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History 315 E. Warren

Linda Burgess at The World of Travel

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praiseconnectdetroit.com

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Februaty 13-19, 2013

Page B-6

Fifth Third Bank Credit Builder Program Helps customers build or rebuild credit

Zarcardi Cortez

VaShawn Mitchell

James Fortune

‘The United as One Tour’ Detroit’s own, Mr. Larry Robinson, Owner of God’s World, is giving back to the city by featuring “The United as One” tour hosted by Sucky Ducky.

On Feb. 23, “The United as One Tour,” hosted by Shucky Ducky, will be presented at the Second Ebenezer Church, located at 14601 Dequindre, where Bishop Edgar L. Vann serves as the host pastor.

Robinson, like so many other business owners, has hit an eco-

nomic crunch that has challenged the city, state and nation. In 2008, God’s World lost its buildings due to foreclosure and is currently in the process of looking for a new home. Robinson, who has operated God’s World for 33 Years stated that “The United as One Tour” was designed to be a blessing to God’s people as well as raise funds to purchase a new home for God’s World, to better serve the customers, and to be in the position to provide them a safe environment to socialize and

share their ministry with the public.

Featured are Detroit’s own Stellar Award Winner, Kierra Sheard (Indescrible) along with Shana Wilson (Press in Your Presence), James Fortune (I Believe), VaShawn Mitchell ( NoBody Greater), Zacardi Cortez (One More Time) and special guest Tamela Mann (Take Me To The King).

For ticket information, please contact God’s World at (313) 862-8220 or Second Ebenezer Church at (313) 867-4700.

Patent Clinic to host open house for inventors, businesses, students Whether you’re an inventor or a business thinking about getting a patent or a student interested in patent law, the Wayne State University Law School’s Patent Procurement Law Clinic’s open house set from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 21 is for you.

Wayne Law developed the patent clinic last year, and it’s the only school in Michigan — and among only 25 law schools nationwide — chosen by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office as a partici-

pating clinic certified for the office’s pilot program.

Selected schools were praised for their intellectual property law curriculum, their outreach to the community and their comprehensive client services.

“Not only is the clinic educating students, but it is also stimulating the local economy by providing free legal services to startup companies who otherwise would not be able to hire an attorney,” said patent attorney Christopher Darrow, a

2000 Wayne Law alumnus who was instrumental in developing the clinic.

Learn about what the clinic can do for you with free legal services, and speak to students to learn about their experiences with the clinic. The event is open to all free of charge. No reservations or registration are required.

The open house will take place at the Law School, 471 W. Palmer St., Detroit. Call (313) 577-8859 to learn more.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month

While the country continues to experience a less than robust economic recovery, millions of Americans are still on the long road of repairing and rebuilding their credit that had been impacted by economic crisis. To help consumers rebuild their credit and get back on a solid financial footing, Fifth Third Bank offers its Credit Builder Program. The Credit Builder Program a full suite of financial tools designed to help consumers establish or reestablish credit.

Credit Builder Program participants can work one-on-one with a financial professional to review their credit profile, choose the appropriate checking and savings packages and establish a savings plan.

Program participants receive access to their ongoing credit information at

all three major credit reporting agencies through Fifth Third Identity Alert.

They may review their progress to understand what impacts their scores and use “what if” scenarios to estimate the resulting credit score impact of certain actions. Customers may also apply for a Secured MasterCard tied to the amount of money in their Fifth Third Savings Account to help establish or rebuild their credit history.

“We recognize the need for a program such

as Credit Builder, especially during these economic times,” said Patricia Van Pelt, senior vice president and head of Retail Banking. “We want to help our customers develop a financial recovery plan unique to their situation and help them understand how their decisions impact their credit, and provide the tools and knowledge they need to help manage and achieve their financial goals.”

Van Pelt adds, “Since 2009, Fifth Third Bank has introduced a number of product packages designed to address a variety of short-term financial needs as well as long-term financial goals. These packages better represent the way consumers are managing their finances today and encourage active use and account management.”

‘The Cross and the Light’ announces new Detroit cast

“The Cross and The Light,” an epic theatrical journey through Christ’s passion, death and resurrection, announces it has cast Kenny Watson as Jesus and Candice Jackson as Mary Magdalene.

It will make its debut at the Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts, with 11 performances running March 24 through Easter Sunday, March 31.

Kenny Watson, an accomplished musician, has toured nationally and internationally. His vocal talents span across the genres of R&B, jazz, alternative, classical and hiphop. “The Cross and The Light’s” creator, executive producer and songwriter, Kelly Garver Nieto, recalls the first time she met Watson.

Candice Jackson has travelled the world, performing and ministering, in addition to singing as an opening act for wellknown artists such as Mandisa from “American Idol,” Kurt Cameron from

Kenny Watson and Candice Jackson.

“Growing Pains” and Gov. Mike Huckabee.

“She is the total package,” said Jamie Kolacki, director of “The Cross and the Light.” “She’s got the look, the heart, and a tremendous voice.”

Nieto was inspired to create “The Cross and The Light” while praying the Stations of the Cross for the first time on Good Friday in 2000. With the help of many colleagues, friends and family members, she created and produced “The Living Stations of the Cross” in her

local parish for 10 years.

To bring the story to the masses, she moved the production to Detroit’s Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament in 2011.

Tickets for “The Cross and The Light” are on sale now. For more information about the production, dates and show times, visit www.CrossandLight.com. To purchase tickets contact the Music Hall Box Office at 313-887-8501 or go online to ticketmaster.com. For groups of 25 or more, call 734-788-7073.

praiseconnectdetroit.com

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Februaty 13-19, 2013

Page B-7

Winter Festival Explore Michigan’s great outdoors at Bay City State Recreation Area on Saturday, Feb. 16, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. as the Department of Natural Resources hosts the 20th annual Winter Festival.

The annual festival is offered on the Saturday of Michigan’s Free Fish-

ing Weekend and is one of many “Winter Project GO Get Outdoors” special events offered throughout the state for the entire family.

The Winter Festival kicks off at 9 a.m. with the annual Youth Ice Fishing Clinic.

Winter

Festival

offer activities for all ages and will be something that they all will recall fondly for many years to come.

Learn more about this creative way of sustaining Michigan’s outdoor recreation and natural resources at www.michigan. gov/recreationpassport.

will

OAK GROVE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH

'&#36"3:

19801 Cherrylawn Detroit, Michigan 48221 (313) 341-8877 Fax (313) 341-0112 www.oakgroveame.org

Jackets for Jobs founder Allison Vaughn will speak at the 83rd annual African American history program The Elliottorian Business and Professional Women’s Clubs will present its 83rd annual African American History program on Suday, Feb. 24, at the International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit, 111 E. Kirby at John R. at 3 p.m. They are pleased to announce that the guest speaker will be Allison Vaughn, author, entrepreneur and activist.

The program is free and open to the public. Adults and youth are encouraged to attend.

There will be entertainment by violinist Aleah Stallings and the choral group from St. John’s Presbyterian Church, under the direction of Damon DeBose.

Allison Vaughn is an award-winning entrepreneur and co-author of the

skills training and professional clothes to lowincome individuals. Since opening its doors in 2000, the organization has assisted more than 14,000 individuals with employment. This high-profile organization has been supported and applauded by ABC’s “The View,” NBC’s “Today Show” and Oprah Winfrey’s O magazine.

Jackets for Jobs is proud to have a partnership with and be the charitable arm to TJ Maxx.

Allison Vaughn book “Inspired Style.”

This sought-after speaker is the founder and CEO of Jackets for Jobs, Inc., a non-profit organization that provides employment etiquette, career building

Juanita Parnell is the chairperson of the 83rd annual African American History program, assisted by co-chairs Zelma M. Hughes and Mattie Jones Johnson.

Joyce Law serves as president of the Elliottorian Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc.

Second Ebenezer Church College Fair Weekend

By Nicole Black

their children to out-ofstate historically Black colleges, Vann stated that as a church, Second Ebenezer’s vision is to not only fulfill the ministries within the walls of the building, but to take the ministry to the streets.

Second Ebenezer is doing just that. Thousands of dollars were awarded in scholarships. In addition, tablets and gift cards were given to student participates.

Second Ebenezer Church hosted its 15th College Fair at the church this past weekend. Students from as far away as Grand Blanc attended, determined that this would be a step toward a brighter future. The College Weekend consisted of a Greek step show on Friday, workshops and the college fair on Saturday along with a College Night Musical on Saturday night.

For the past 15 years, Second Ebenezer Church has hosted the free college fair with a vision of not just the youth at Second Ebenezer but for youth throughout our communities, neighborhoods, cities and state. The purpose for the college fair is to provide students with resources to connect with college recruiters, financially institutions and to

Bishop Edgar Vann allow their parents to be informed and educated regarding the school their children choose to further their educations.

Bishop Vann said he is excited about the 2013 college fair. This year, in response to parents’ concerns about the expenses associated with sending

The Second Ebenezer Church College Fair weekend has grown to be the largest in the metro area and there are plans to make it even bigger and better next year.

Bishop Vann and Second Ebenezer Church take pride in knowing that they are an empowered church impacting the next generation.

THE CHOIR, raising their voices in song.

Men’s Day service The Men of Greater New Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church announce and cordially invite the public to share in their 87th annual Men’s Day on Sunday, Feb, 17.

The theme is “Men with a vision.”

The day will include a 7:30 a.m. morning worship with Dr. Michael C. R. Nabors, senior pastor of New Calvary Baptist Church, and a 10:30 a.m. morning worship with Dr. Alvin E. Jackson Sr., the senior pastor of Wings of Love Ministries.

The celebration will be held at Greater New Mt. Moriah Baptist Church located at 586 Owens St. Rev. Kenneth James Flowers is pastor. Brother Van Whittley is the general chairperson, and trustee Norris Polk is the general co-chairperson.

Music ministry will be provided by the renowned Mighty voices of Thunder. The Deacon Arthur Murphy Man of Year Award will be presented.

Pastor Alvin E. Jackson Sr., senior pastor, Wings of Love Ministries.

For more information, please call (313) 8718025.

Art, essay, poetry contest The Detroit Tigers are currently accepting submissions for the 17th Annual Detroit Tigers Jackie Robinson Art, Essay & Poetry Contest.

Now through March 8, middle and high school students from the metro Detroit area may enter the contest by entering an original work of art, an essay or a poem in honor of Hall of Famer Jackie

Robinson.

City Royals.

On April 15, 1947, Robinson broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball during his debut with the Brooklyn Dodgers.

Contest winners will receive five complimentary tickets and be honored during a special on-field, pregame ceremony held at Comerica Park on Tuesday, April 23, before the Tigers host the Kansas

To enter, contestants must submit an original piece of art, an essay or poem by 5 p.m. on Friday, March 8. An official entry form must accompany each submission.

For more information, including the official entry form, visit tigers.com/education or call Sam Abrams at (313) 471-2363.

Guest Preacher

Dr. Robert Brumfield, Pastor

Page B-8

February 13-19, 2013

Wolverines, Spartans in national basketball spotlight

By Leland Stein III

ANN ARBOR — By all accounts, the Big Ten Conference is the best in college basketball. Indiana and Michigan have both been ranked No. 1 in the country.

Ohio State, Michigan State, Minnesota and Illinois have all been ranked in the Top 10.

With the 2012-13 season winding down and March Madness less than a month away, the state of Michigan is well represented on the national college basketball stage.

Both teams have a shot at winning the Big Ten title, but it will not be easy for either one.

With five teams ranked in the Top 20, the conference crown will be difficult to claim. Indiana, Michigan, Ohio State and Michigan State are the top four, and it’s likely that one of those teams will hoist a Big Ten regular-season banner.

But don’t count out Minnesota, which went down to the wire with the Spartans recently, losing a battle, 61-50, at the Breslin Center. The Hoosiers, on the other hand, are in

KEITH APPLING, formerly of Pershing High. a class by themselves, perched atop league standings with a sparkling 8-1 record.

Coming are two contests between Michigan State and Michigan in the coming weeks. It has been a while since both teams have been so highly rated and are poised to make a legitimate run at a NCAA title.

Leading the way for the Wolverines and Spartans are point guards Trey Burke and Keith Appling.

MICHIGAN’S Trey Burke.

Michigan sophomore Burke took the lead in ESPN.com’s recent national Player of the Year poll, and he was named one of 12 finalists for the Bob Cousy Award, annually given to the country’s top point guard.

Burke, who is averaging 18.1 points, 7.2 assists, is the Big Ten’s second-leading scorer and the conference’s top assist man.

On top of that, he’s still on pace to become the first Big Ten player to average at least 17 points and 7 assists since former Michigan State and Los Angeles Laker Magic Johnson accomplished the feat in 1979.

Michigan State’s Keith Appling also made the current list of 12, which will be narrowed to five on March 11. The winner will be announced at the Final Four.

Appling is MSU’s leading scorer, tossing in 14 points per game and leads in assist

with over 4. However, the junior point guard pulled his right shoulder out of socket when he got tangled up with a Minnesota’s Joe Coleman in the Spartans’ victory.

Appling was helped off the court, gripping his left arm, in the second half of the Minnesota game. With his arm hanging in an awkward manner, he was in obvious pain as he made the trip to the locker room.

Miraculously, Appling did not miss a game. He indeed is the glue to whatever MSU is doing. As a defensive stopper, ball handler and scorer, the Spartans really need him to be healthy.

Along with Appling, MSU has

point guard Travis Trice dealing with concussion-like symptoms. He missed five games earlier this year. Super freshman Gary Harris is battling back spasms and Branden Dawson also slightly hurt his ankle.

“I’m feeling pretty good, still a little sore,” Appling said.

Appling’s scare w became the latest in a string of Spartan injuries, and, it would have killed the Spartans’ Big Ten title hopes.

As it stands now, the state of Michigan has two of the better teams in the country and if each can stay healthy, they will be knocking on the national title door.

Kaepernick leads Black quarterbacks’ 2012 surge NEW ORLEANS — Before I start this discourse, I have to note that I do not care what color my quarterback is as long as he can lead my team to the Promised Land. He could be green with purple eyes as long as he can run and throw.

in the second quarter. He completed 18 of 29 passes for 340 yards, with four touchdown passes.

However, for this discourse, I’d like to highlight the Black quarterback’s struggle in the NFL. One friend I was talking to told me that if I talked about Black quarterbacks, then I should also write about how many White cornerbacks or running backs there are in the NFL.

Before Williams, there was “Jefferson Street” Joe Gilliam, who started six games for the 1974 Pittsburgh Steelers team that won the Super Bowl. He earned a ring after giving up the starting job to Terry Bradshaw.

I thought, “Here we go, the NFL will just accept a quarterback for who he is and not worry about the color of his skin.”

I was able to get a one-on-one interview with Williams at the 1998 Super Bowl XXXII in San Diego. We met at a restaurant early in the morning. It was the ten year anniversary of his historic performance in the same stadium he lit up in 1988 at Super Bowl XXII.

To that retort I just note that White cornerbacks and running backs have had opportunities since professional football came into being in the roaring 20s, and later when the league formed into the NFL in 1933.

Opportunity did not exist for the Black quarterback in the NFL for far too long, then in the Black community there was a sense of pride and acknowledgement when an African American is at the helm of a multimillion dollar NFL franchise, and is winning too.

It is amazing that in the 23 years since Williams became the first Black quarterback to lead a team to a Super Bowl victory, no other has accomplished the feat.

Doug Williams

At Super Bowl XLVII in New Orleans, San Francisco quarterback Colin Kaeper­ nick, joined Steve McNair of the Tennessee Titans in 1999 and Donovan McNabb of the Philadelphia Eagles in 2004 as African American quarterbacks who have led their teams to America’s biggest event, but came up just short.

The NFL is close to 70 percent African American, yet there are only five starting and even fewer head coaches. So the Black quarterback situation is still an issue. There are 32 teams, so when the NFL has at least 16 Black starting quarterbacks, then we’ll be closer to normal/ equal/proportional status.

The fact of the matter is that the ratio of Black quarterbacks in relation to other positions in pro football remains glaringly low.

There were six

By Leland Stein III starting Black quarterbacks in 2011, down from a record of eight in 2008. To start 2012 there were only five to begin the season. That’s 12.5% of starting quarterbacks in the NFL compared to 65% in college ball.

“I just went out there and played,” Kaepernick told me. “I did not look at myself as a Black quarterback, just a guy trying to lead his team. Sure I know the history of the NFL, but I did not need to put any more pressure on myself and the situation I was in. So for the most part it never came up in the time leading up to the game.”

With Kaepernick, Wilson and Griffin leading their teams to the playoffs, many think that this could be the start of a new era.

In the Game

In my interview with Williams he said when he started in Tampa Bay, he was never Doug Williams.

“I was always Tampa Bay’s Black quarterback,” he said.

What happens to the Black quarterback after they reach the NFL?

do detect that the Black quarterback still finds himself overly-scrutinized, chastised and demonized far more than others.

Sure we have made great strides, but I

I will never forget watching Doug Wil-

liams produce that MVP performance in Super Bowl XXII with the Washington Redskins in 1988. Over John Elway and Denver, Williams engineered a 4210 rout, in which the Redskins set an NFL record by scoring five touchdowns

Like Kaepernick noted, the word Black never came up. However, that still has not changed the opportunities for the Black quarterback, from college to the NFL. Leland Stein can be reached at lelstein3@aol.com, also at Twitter @LelandSteinIII.

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section C

February 13-19, 2013

Groomed to lead The next generation of presidents

By Damon Autry Entrepreneurship, with its allure of independence and the chance to have one’s level of desire be the only impediment to success, has been at the core of the African American community since the 1600s. Indeed, African Americans have attempted to forge their own economic liberation through business activities for centuries.

Both enslaved and free Africans in America seized every opportunity to develop enterprises and participate as businesspeople in the commercial life of a developing new nation. It’s not a surprise, then, that African American entrepreneurs today, particularly in Detroit, have adopted the capitalistic ethos that is apparently embedded deeply in their DNA. Success stories abound of how many entrepreneurs in the Motor City have established thriving enterprises that provide quality goods and services to consumers. Whether it’s the automotive industry, media, hospitality, human capital, construction or a myriad of other fields, African Americans in Detroit have fashioned economic viability by way of developing prosperous business ventures that, in some cases, employ hundreds of people.

There’s a common theme that is echoed by many entrepreneurs in Detroit, a theme that most often reveals itself in a vision that is much larger than what is immediately in front of them. This theme speaks of creating a business legacy that is passed on to the next generation. It’s a noble gesture to be sure, but nobility is not their chief aim.

Rather, it’s about becoming self-sufficient, and it is this autonomous vision that leads most Detroitarea, Black-owned businesses to orchestrate a succession plan that keeps the enterprise in the family.

And no, these heirs to whom they pass the business aren’t necessarily coddled, privileged individuals who expect life’s road to be devoid of challenges and difficult circumstances. These are eager professionals, hungry to forge their own path and continue the successes their parents set in motion.

Before a succession plan can be executed, however, it’s obviously a necessary step that the offspring of these business leaders have a role in the organization. There are numerous examples of how the newer generation is preparing for the inevitable move to the corner office. For starters, Walter Douglas became a minority owner of Avis Ford in 1986 but eventually became majority owner, in 1991.

The Southfield dealership sits at Telegraph and 12 Mile Road, one of the busiest intersections in Southeast Michigan. His son, Mark, began working for the company in 1997 after a six- year stint as an electrical engineer at General Motors. It was always expected that he, along with his brother, Edmund, would join the family business. Mark held various positions in the company — porter, salesman, assistant general manager — before ascending to his current position as president of Avis Ford. While his dad remains a presence in the business as its chairman and CEO, it is Mark who essentially guides the day-to-day operations.

“It’s truly a blessing to work in the family business,” Mark said.

“Ultimately, it’s an opportunity to stand on the shoulders of someone who came before me and be able to offer that same opportunity to my children and my children’s children.”

David Burnley Sr. started Devon Industrial Group in 1998 and has clients in the automotive, educational and healthcare industries.

The appeal of having his children involved in the business was so great that he decided to name the company after his son. Devon and his sister, Stephanie, are heavily engaged in the business. Stephanie has been in the business since 2007, and there are plans for her to eventually earn the responsibility of teaming with Devon as they build on the legacy established by their father.

See Groomed Page C-4

THE FUTURE HOME of Real Times Media and the Michigan Chronicle.

Michigan Chronicle plans move to Detroit’s historic Paradise Valley

Building to house Real Times Media’s new world headquarters

By Cathy Nedd

T

he Michigan Chronicle and its parent company, Real Times Media, are expanding operations and moving into a 18,000 sq. ft. building located at 1452 Randolph in Harmonie Park. The building will house the new world headquarters for Real Times Media, which currently has offices in six states. Vacated by Dell Pryor Gallery five years ago, the property was recently purchased by Paradise Valley Real Estate Holdings, a group of African American investors who are committed to the revitalization of Detroit.

A historically designated site, the building will be returned to its original splendor. Once renovations are complete, the new address will be home to an in-house studio which will allow the company to continue its expansion into the production of original video content for its Web properties as well as for its sister publications under the Real Times Media umbrella.

“The Michigan Chronicle has been an integral part of the Detroit community for more than 75 years so it is only natural that we center our operations in the heart of the resurgence of Detroit,” said Hiram E. Jackson, CEO of Real Times Media and publisher of the Michigan Chronicle.

Real Times Media is aggressively expanding into the digital space and creating a greater online presence. With new

brands like PraiseConnect.com and The Digital Daily, it will need the extra space to build an in-house studio with which to produce video content and to house a growing staff.

“The move to Paradise Valley marks a new chapter for the Michigan Chronicle,” said Jackson. “As we continue to evolve to fit the needs of new generations, we are expanding our focus to address the digital realities of today. Our move to Paradise Valley embodies this renewed

spirit. Even today, the area harkens back to its roots as a bustling African American business and entertainment mecca and it’s exactly where our company needs to be.”

The building’s new owner, Paradise Valley Real Estate Holdings, draws its name from the area in which it is located, a historic district known as Paradise Valley which was Detroit’s bustling African American business and entertainment area from the 1930s to the 1950s.

Paradise Valley was a predominantly African American area in downtown Detroit known as a hotbed for entertainment and artistic activity with movie houses, and some of the first jazz clubs to come up in the north during late ’30s and ’40s.

While it is not clear how the area came

to be known as Paradise Valley, some have speculated that it drew its name form the newly introduced Asian “paradise” trees that grew throughout the area. A vibrant area, the neighborhood has been celebrated in musicals like Bea Buck’s “Paradise Valley Revisited” and “Masquerade Flashback,” and recalled in Elaine Wood’s book, “Untold tales, Unsung Heroes.”

Today’s Paradise Valley is surrounded by nearly a dozen performing arts venues and is within waking distance of the Fox Theatre, the State Theatre, the Detroit Opera House, Music Hall, the Gem & Century Club, Hockeytown, Ford Field, Comerica Park, and a number of restaurants, bars and pubs.

Real Times Media is a multimedia company that consists of Internet properties, newspapers, niche publishing, marketing services, archive licensing and premier events. With offices in Atlanta, Chicago, Columbus, Detroit, Memphis and Pittsburgh, Real Times is the leading provider of original print content for African American related news, entertainment and lifestyle information.

Dedicated to distributing top quality news, lifestyle information and entertainment relevant to the African American and urban markets, Real Times’ goal is to continually develop non-traditional media that complements its core business, build greater brand loyalty and cultivate new customers for its clients.

The Real Times Media family of companies includes the nation’s largest African-American owned and operated newspaper organizations: the Atlanta Daily World, Chicago Defender, Michigan Chronicle, Michigan FrontPage, Memphis Tri-State Defender and New Pittsburgh Courier.

Black developers picked to revitalize state fairgrounds

By Cathy Nedd A group of investors has received the nod from the Michigan Land Bank Fast Track Authority to proceed with negotiations to develop the 157-acre Michigan State Fair site located east of Woodward and south of Eight Mile Road. The group, called Magic Plus, consists of Basketball Hall of Famer Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Michigan State University Trustee Joel Ferguson and Detroit business mogul Marvin Beatty. Management company Redico is also involved in the project.

The trio plans to convert the historically designated site into a luxury theater, entertainment complex, mixed retail condos and senior housing. An Amtrak station is also part of the plans. Total investment is slated to be $160 million.

“It is an honor to have been chosen to develop what was once one of Detroit’s jewels,” said Beatty. “As a native Detroiter, I am committed to be a part of the movement to redevelop this great city.”

Beatty is no stranger to development.

As one of the former owners of Greektown Casino, he is also part owner of the $71 million, 350,000 square foot Gateway Marketplace development which broke ground last May at Woodward and Eight

Earvin “Magic” Johnson

Joel Ferguson

Mile in Detroit adjacent to the State Fairgrounds. Meijer is the anchor store.

Development veteran Ferguson has built 14 multi-family residential complexes throughout Michigan. He has dedicated much of his professional career to providing housing for mixed-income and senior citizens throughout the state.

There were other plans for the property presented to Michigan Land Bank, including one that involved turning the fairgrounds into a transportation hub, green space, residential and retail area

Marvin Beatty that is largely supported by the community. That plan, dubbed Metro Energy Technology Agriculture (META), lacked the financial backing to meet the requirements set by the bank. Magic Plus was the only proposal that did.

After decades of being the site of the Michigan State Fair, the state was forced to close it down due to a lack of funding. It was a hard loss for many Detroiters who had grown up going to the State Fair. Last year, the State Fair was privatized and moved to the Suburban Collection in Novi.

business

February 6-12, 2013

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Page C-2

Who’s Who In Black Detroit

Drive Table Tennis Social Club gives an old sport a new perception

By Amber L. Bogins

The fifth of 13 children, Edith Killins saw her mother as a consumer of mental health services. Due to those challenges, the Detroit native and her 12 siblings were raised by her aunt. As director of the Wayne County Department of Health and Human Services, Killins is now able to help others who are in similar situations by establishing a structure for services for Wayne County families and businesses.

Detroiters are innovative, springing forth new business ideas from a well of experiences, creating something unique. Such is the case with Drive Table Tennis Social Club.

If you are the Serena Williams or Andre Agassi of table tennis or just have love for the game, then this is the new hot spot in Detroit.

Drive combines the fun, competitiveness and nostalgia of table tennis with the aesthetics of a social club. The club, located on Woodward in downtown Detroit, features eight Olympic-quality tables available to rent, ping-pong tournaments, lounge seating, art exhibits, live music, ladies night and much more. Drive Table Tennis Social Club is creating its own niche in downtown Detroit.

But why table tennis?

“It’s the most played sport in the world, maybe second only to soccer,” said owner Diallo Smith.

The idea was to take an existing product, remove the stigma of recreational rooms and basements and create a cool atmosphere.

Bring table tennis to life in a sexy way.”

However, Drive is more than just a new, sexy business in Detroit. It is

Edith Killins manages county’s $700 million health department

DIALLO AND JAMEEL SMITH, Drive Table Tennis owners. a company with a heart to help Detroit prosper by donating a portion of its table rentals to local organizations. Diallo Smith calls it “playing it forward.”

“It’s not enough to start a business. Be a business that benefits the community,” Smith said, “Whenever you are creating an environment where community can blossom, at the end of the day you get something really great.”

Among the organizations benefiting from Drive are the Detroit Zoo, Developing Kids, Neighborhood Services and Forgotten Harvest, to name a

few.

Diallo Smith hopes that Drive Table Tennis Social Club will have its name written in the history books as one of the companies at the forefront of Detroit’s renaissance. He feels that entrepreneurs have a responsibility to change the climate and culture in the city.

“Some of the old rules are being rewritten,” he said, creating opportunities for native entrepreneurs to push the boundaries on what’s possible.

We have to think broader and more imaginatively about what the city can be.”

“My biological mother was a mental health consumer, so being the director of the 13th largest county’s health department gives me an opportunity to share my passion with people. Part of the reason why I am here is because I had a strong aunt who took in her nieces and nephews,” said Killins.

But during those trying times, Killins learned valuable life lessons, including how to advocate for yourself, sharing with others, not being bullied, customer service, teambuilding and democracy.

“In a family that large you learn a lot of life lessons. I learned early on that you can’t allow people to take advantage without finding out what you can do and getting help for what you can’t do.”

Killins oversees the county’s largest department which operates at $700 million and includes eight divisions, including Public Health, Mental Health, Patient Care Management System, Wayne County Head Start, Jail Health Services, Medical Examiner’s Office, Wayne County Library and Wayne County Health Choice.

In 2003 Killins joined the department as deputy director and was promoted to director in 2006. She has focused on streamlining services and providing innovative ways of reaching

their consumers.

“We are looking into more evolution as the economy changes, so should the way we deliver services.

We have included a one-stop shop, so if a consumer enters the mental health department, we will also inform them of public health services or other services they need.”

Killins has also worked for the State of Michigan for 23 years. The Detroit Public Schools graduate holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Master of Business Administration degree in Health Care Management from Oakland University. For the past three years, she has served as president of the Friends of Osborn Alumni Association, where high school seniors were awarded scholarships to provide them access to many opportunities. She is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.

Killins plans to teach courses in human services or access to healthcare and to spend more time in her church, Detroit Love Tabernacle Church of God in Christ.

“I enjoy people and I understand what health services they need,” she said. “I am always interested in learning about resources so when I meet people I am able to share those resources with them.”

Killins’ 26-year-old son attends law school, which is a dream she always wanted to pursue. Her life’s inspiration is from a quote by Dr. Martin Luther King: “Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in healthcare is the most shocking and inhumane.” She has made a career of pursuing a passion — helping others obtain access to healthcare so equality can be a reality.

Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce launches nation’s first collegiate Black Chamber of Commerce chapter

By Amber Bogins On Feb. 7, the Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce (MBCC) opened America’s first collegiate Black Chamber of Commerce at Michigan State University (MSUBCC). The MBCC is the leading organization promoting African American business ownership and entrepreneurship in the Michigan and is associated with the U.S. Black Chamber of Commerce. The Michigan chapter is the fourth largest BCC in the country and with its expansion into the collegiate sector, it will be on the forefront of developing new African American entrepreneurs.

“The establishment of the MSUBCC

chapter opens a new avenue of continued growth for the Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce as we work to identify, nurture and develop the next generation of Black entrepreneurs in Michigan,” said Ken Harris, president and CEO of the Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce. “Michigan is known for its collection of world-class universities throughout the state, and we want to help as many students select entrepreneurship as we can to increase the number, size and reach of Black-owned businesses statewide.”

The MBCC has plans to open additional chapters at universities across Michigan, including the University of

Michigan, Western Michigan University, Eastern Michigan University, Wayne State University, Grand Valley State University and Baker College. Each chapter will be mentored by a local BCC. In the case of MSUBCC, the mentoring chapter will be the Lansing Black Chamber of Commerce. In addition to a mentoring chapter, the colleges will have faculty advisors who will help the students find real world applications for the lessons learned in class.

“The establishment of the Michigan State University Black Chamber of Commerce is a significant milestone in giving students a fountain of resources and opportunities to confidently pursue

entrepreneurship as a career,” said Dr. Forrest Carter, associate professor of marketing, Eli Broad School of Business and faculty advisor to the MSUBCC. “This organization will serve as the blueprint in helping to expose many more students at Michigan State and other universities to the benefits and rewards entrepreneurship can bring.”

The MBCC has access to 79,000 Blackowned businesses and the creation of collegiate chapters has the potential to create hundreds more. Entrepreneurs and small businesses are the backbone of Michigan, and by identifying and nurturing future business creators, the state and nation are strengthened

People On The Move

Melanie Williams Melanie Williams is a public relations account executive at Uniworld Group, Inc., in their Dearborn location. In this position, she is responsible for multicultural public relations efforts for Ford Lincoln automotive brand. Since being at Uniworld she has worked on several global marketing efforts, including the all new 2013 Fusion ad campaign, and the all new 2013 Escape multicultural creative ad campaign. Among Williams’ duties are managing press junkets and securing national media placements. She has previously served as public relations director for the 17th Annual Urban Wheel Awards.

Founded in 1969, Uniworld is the longest-existing multicultural agency in the country.

Sharon Williams

Cheryl A. Townsel

Renee T. Walker

Sharon R. Williams is the senior vice president and chief operating officer at the Detroit Area Agency on Aging.

Williams comes to the agency with 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry.

She most recently served as chief executive office for CareSource Michigan, a multiproduct HMO serving publiclyfunded healthcare consumers.

As CEO, Williams steered the organization through service area expansion, operations efficiency improvement and development of a national business strategy. A graduate of Michigan State University, she holds a managed care executive endorsement from American’s Health Insurance Plan’s executive leadership program.

Cheryl A. Townsel is vice president of community services at Detroit Area Agency on Aging. Her healthcare career spans more than two decades. An accomplished senior-level professional, she has diverse management consulting, grant writing, national policy and advocacy, governance and trade association management experience.

Townsel earned a Master of Science degree in Health Policy and Management from the Harvard School of Public Health and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Oberlin College.

Renee T. Walker recently started Renee Walker & Associates, LLC, a strategy and communications consultancy firm. Prior to starting her company, Walker was associate vice president of university communications at Central Michigan University, where she served as the chief communications officer for one of the nation’s 100 largest public universities. She also served as manager of corporate public relations and as a government affairs manager for Kelly Services, and before that as assistant, executive assistant and chief protocol office to former Detroit Mayor Dennis Archer.

Reginald M. Turner

James Heath

Reginald Turner was recently appointed to the Wayne County Airport Authority board

by Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano. The board is responsible for the Detroit Metropolitan Airport and the Willow Run Airport. An attorney for Clark Hill, PLC, Turner has served the community in many capacities. He is the past president of the State Bar of Michigan and the National Bar Association and past chairman of the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.

Turner was also special assistant to the U.S. secretary of Housing and Urban Development and a member of the Michigan State Board of Education.

James Heath was recently appointed by the Detroit City Council to the position of inspector general. Heath will be the city’s first inspector general to head a new office – the office of inspector general, or OIG – which was created as part of the 2012 City Charter revision. The OIG is dedicated to uprooting corruption in Detroit city government. Prior to accepting the position, Heath was the former chair of Detroit’s Board of Ethics and assistant state attorney general. He has been busy starting up the independent agency from scratch, including locating an office, hiring staff and researching best practices.

business

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

February 13-19, 2013

Page C-3

Feel more productive with the

Galaxy Note 2 Mobile Applications: Helping customers make educated purchases

By David Samberg No matter what task you want to perform using your smartphone or tablet – there’s probably an app, or likely dozens of apps, available to help.

In the Google Play store alone, there are more than 700,000 apps available today. Having so many options is great, but where can customers go to get reliable information on what apps to try and how they will affect their device?

Verizon Wireless has launched two online tools to help – 20 MustHave Apps and Android App Reviews

by Verizon. These tools are designed to provide honest, accurate feedback on the most popularapplications available in order to protect and enhance a customer’s wireless experience.

The Top 20 Must-Have Apps is a list of Google and Apple apps that offer a “best in class” experience and will help wireless users get the most out of their mobile device. If a customer is looking for

sports, travel, family, fitness, video, or finance apps, this is the place to start their search. The list is updated at least four times a year.

Android App Reviews

by Verizon looks at the top 50 Google apps (25 Top Free and 25 Top Paid) based on based on their rankings in Google Play over a 30-day period. Ve-

A bigger phone may not be to everyone’s taste, but the Samsung Galaxy Note II is made for the professional on the go. Like the LG Intuition (but smaller), the Galaxy Note II combines the features of a smartphone and tablet, giving users the best of both worlds with its large 5.5-inch HD Super AMOLED screen. And not to worry, despite the size it’ll fit comfortably in your pocket or purse.

The cost is $299 with a two-year contract.

Still enjoy the act of jotting down notes? True to its name, the Galaxy Note has a built-in S-Pen that allows users to use the handwriting-to-text feature to jot down their notes. You can also attach an audio recording of a lecture, meeting, or any idea

you may have. With AirView, the S-Pen can hover over an email or gallery to preview content without opening it. Easy Clip lets users draw an outline and crop what’s on the screen with the S-Pen and share that cropped image with others.

And if you simply can’t stand to perform one task at a time, the Note allows users to run two apps simultaneously. For example: you can stream YouTube videos while texting a friend, taking notes, or writing down an address while on a phone call.

Need to jot down a note but there’s not a pen and paper handy? Try pulling out the S-Pen during a phone call…

Virtual offices are becoming the norm, so it’s

What sources do you go to for app recommendations and ratings? Join the conversation at @VZWnews.

Additional features:

essential to have access to create and edit Microsoft Word, Exel and PowerPoint documents, which is possible through the Polaris Office app.

And your documents are safe with advanced Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync functionality and support for industry-leading Mobile Device Management (MDM) and VPN solutions.

The Samsung Galaxy Note II is available from Verizon Wireless. – Cornelius A. Fortune, managing editor

•Android 4.1 Jelly Bean • Samsung Exynos 1.6 GHz quad-core processor and 2 GB of RAM • 8-megapixel camera and 1.9-megapixel front facingcamera • AllShare Play – stream multimedia content from the Note II to a compatible Samsung Smart TV or home audio system when connected to the same Wi-Fi network • S Beam – share pictures, videos, documents and more by simply touching two Note II devices’ backs together

Privacy matters: Don’t get Scroogled by Gmail

By Stefan Weitz Microsoft Senior Director of Online Services

For the next few minutes, imagine that you are the mother who is dealing with her teenage daughter’s school issues, or a husband who just found out his wife wants a divorce. You need help, so you email a friend. Because you think of email as “mail,” you imagine it passing through cyberspace and arriving – unopened – in your friend’s inbox. You share the facts and your feelings. rizon experts review the apps based on their affect on battery life, security, and data usage. As part of this initiative, there is also a list of apps that affect the operation of mobile devices in a way worth noting for customers.

Galaxy Note 2

On the surface, this sounds harmless, right? I’ll bet you didn’t know that a certain email provider, Gmail (via Google), is opening your message and marketing “behavior” or “divorce lawyer” to advertisers. Even when you close the email, that message tells Gmail it can target you with lawyer ads another day. That’s much like a stranger going into your mailbox at the end of your driveway, opening an envelope from the school district, reading a letter from your daughter’s principal and then dropping unsolicited flyers off at your door for local counseling services.

People may not be aware that even if they don’t use Gmail, if they send email to someone who does, Google goes through those emails to generate advertising income. A recent Gfk Roper poll shows a majority of Americans are unaware that any major email service provider scans the content of personal emails in order to target ads. We

view this as a real problem because people, especially Gmail users, have a right to know what’s really going on.

But, we’re not alone in our concern. There are currently six lawsuits ongoing claiming Google illegally snoops on private emails.

And earlier studies by Harris Interactive and Pew Internet & American Life Project show clearly that people value their privacy. In fact, 88 percent of Americans disap-

prove of email providers scanning the content of your personal emails in order to target ads, according to Gfk Roper’s recent poll.

Google’s Gmail may be “free”, but the monetization of all personal Gmail messages you put there comes at a cost. The simple fact is that you pay for that email address with your privacy.

On the flip side, email provider Outlook.com prioritizes privacy.

Outlook.com may scan the contents of your email to help protect you and display, categorize, and sort your mail appropriately. Just like the postal service sorts and scans mail and packages for dangerous explosives and biohazards, Outlook.com scans your mail to help prevent spam, gray mail, phishing scams, viruses, malware, and other dangers and annoyances.

Privacy should matter, so don’t be Scroogled. We encourage you to tell Google to stop going through your personal email messages to sell ads. Sign the petition at www.

Scroogled.com and tell Google to stop going through your emails to sell ads.

business

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Groomed

February 13-19, 2013

Page C-4

From page C-1

“My dad has developed a solid business in the construction industry that I don’t want to see in fail,” Stephanie said, “so I want to continue to help this grow so that one day my kids can take over. I don’t want to let my dad down.”

For more than 60 years, Mays Printing helped meet the printing needs of individual consumers and businesses.

It was founded by J. Caulton Mays in 1946, and he passed it on to his son, James. Over time, the company carved out a solid niche in the printing field.

They concentrated on education, government, political campaigns, book publishing, and essentially had the obituary market cornered in the city. Elizabeth Mays, daughter and granddaughter of James and Caulton, respectively, literally grew up in the family business. She shadowed her father and grandfather and developed a great interest in learning more.

“I took pride in working for the family business, and my father saw me as an asset,” she remembers. “Working there was a privilege.” Mays Printing closed in July of 2011 for restructuring purposes, but there are plans for the business to return. Meanwhile, after consulting with family, Elizabeth started a new venture, MCS Multimedia. The firm was started to continue the momentum that Mays Printing had established and maintained for more than 65 years. MCS has many of the same customers that Mays had, and in addition to printing, offers services such as advertising, consultations and graphic design.

Bankable Marketing Strategies is a full service, integrated marketing communications agency started by Sharon Banks in 1998. The company boasts clients in the public and private sector, delivering everything from brand identity strategies to brand redevelopment, public relations, crisis management,

me to be more at the forefront.”

There are many other companies in the area where succession plans are part of that business’ vernacular. It’s important to the forward-thinking visionaries who started these enterprises that their children not only become part of the business, but become so entrenched in the everyday activities of the organization that preparation for taking over the reins becomes an inevitable fact. Jim Jenkins III of Jenkins Construction, a company started by his father, Jim Jenkins Jr; Lorron James of James Group International, a company started by his father, John James; Linda Swanson of Swanson Funeral Home; and Sharon Madison of Madison International are just a few additional people who are either being groomed to be part of the next generation to lead or already are.

Sharon Banks

Ironically, though, statistics show that only one-third of all family businesses are successfully transferred to the next generation, and only 13 percent are transferred onto the third generation. This is a sobering fact, not only for the families, but for the nation’s economic health, because much of the country’s economy is made up of small, family-owned businesses.

Erica Banks video production, Web development, social media and other concepts. After a nine year stint performing various marketing duties at other agencies, Sharon’s daughter, Erica, joined BMS in 2011 as its director of communications. Any talk of an imminent succession plan is many years away, but that doesn’t preclude mother and daughter from broaching the subject. “Every day (my mother and I) talk about ways to transition the business to me,” Erica said. “I look forward to that day when she’s ready to take more of a backseat role and allow

Mark Douglas has an idea why those numbers are surprisingly low. “I think a lot of that has to do with the next generation not really being passionate and motivated to take over the business,” he said. “If the kids are forced into the family business, that has a way of creating some problems down the line.”

Erica Banks agrees. She said, “You have to determine if the family business is really your passion, or are you just taking over because Mom and Dad want you to. I actually started pursuing an education career first but decided to transition to marketing. So in my situation, this is something that I love and

Mark Douglas wanted to do.”

Business succession plans for African American enterprises are a vital part of not only the American economy, but the vibrancy of African American communities. It’s important, however, to have a succession plan in place. Of the 2.1 million Black-owned businesses in the country, less than 15 percent have a viable succession plan. That number must increase if we are to better insulate our families and communities from possible economic struggle.

But through it all, despite the documented challenges of business succession, despite the economic turmoil that may surface, African Americans in Detroit have forged ahead to create and build thriving enterprises.

hap.org/medicare

Never launch a new endeavor without first taking a lesson.

You wouldn’t dream of walking onto a golf course without some sort of preparation. Nor should you take a swing at Medicare without understanding all of your options. That’s why we encourage you to attend one of our upcoming workshops. We’ll discuss Medicare HMO, HMO-POS, PPO, Medicare Rx and Medicare Supplement plans. It’s the perfect opportunity for you to ask questions of our experts in order to select the type of plan that’s right for you. The time you spend with us will be well worth the drive.

Come to a Medicare workshop. Get your questions answered.

Detroit Thurs., Feb. 21

Call toll-free at (800) 449-1515 or TTY/TDD (800) 649-3777 Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

A sales person will be present with information and applications. For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings call (800) 449-1515 or TTY/TDD (800) 649-3777. Workshops discuss plans for Medicare-eligible individuals who purchase their own health care coverage.

Health Alliance Plan and Alliance Health & Life Insurance Company are health plans with a Medicare contract. Alliance Medicare Rx (pdp) is a stand-alone Prescription Drug Plan with a Medicare contract. Alliance Medicare Supplement plan is not connected with or endorsed by the United States government or the federal Medicare program. Neither Alliance Medicare Supplement nor its agents are connected with Medicare.

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February 13-19, 2013 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • Page C-5

Page C-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • February 13-19, 2013

ENTER TO WIN!

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February 13-19, 2013

Reflections

By Steve Holsey

A hot performance Beyoncé sure knows how to light up a stage and get an audience’s adrenaline pumping.

Or, to put it another way, no one is better at “gettin’ the party started.”

Leontyne Price

Case in point: The Super Bowl XLVII halftime show. Now that was exciting! Entertainment at its best. Jay-Z said recently that his wife is “the hardest working woman in show business,” and that she is. The performance was also sexy, but not trashy.

Everything in her show is rehearsed to perfection and nothing is left to chance. It was incredible how much was fit into a show that lasted less than 15 minutes. It was a feast for the eyes and ears. The performance can be viewed on YouTube.

Dennis Edwards (back, right) with the Temptations and Diana Ross & the Supremes.

Nat “King” Cole

THIS MONTH IN

Destiny’s Child reunited: Kelly Rowland (left), Beyoncé Knowles and Michelle Williams.

The highlight was, of course, the reunion of Destiny’s Child. When Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams dramatically joined Beyoncé Knowles on stage, it was electric. They gave “Bootylicous” and “Independent Women” a workout, as well as Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It).”

However, I think the show should have ended with an uptempo song rather than “Halo.”

IT IS AMAZING how small-minded some people can be, and downright mean, both traits so often fueled by jealousy.

Jennifer Hudson is looking great these days, yet there are those (women mostly) who have been critical of her and her Weight Watchers commercials, when they should be proud of her, for her accomplishments and the fact that she is an inspiration to so many.

Rather than viewing the commercials for what they essenJennifer Hudson tially are — an invitation to lose weight and improve health — these detractors say the commercials are intimidating to girls and women who are overweight, placing unrealistic expectations on them. Plus they feel that Hudson is receiving excessive media attention.

And Mary J. Blige, who also got herself together, physically and otherwise, says there are women who say they actually liked her better when she was laden with problems, including bad relationships and drugs.

The “mean­ies” should look up words like “fairness” and “support.”

By Steve Holsey On Feb. 4, 1970, “I Want You Back” by THE JACKSON 5 was the No. 1 single in the United States. In addition to being a representation of the last hurrah of Motown Record Corporation in Detroit before the company moved to Los Angeles, the Jackson 5 were the last of Motown’s famous “assembly line” of artists.

On Feb. 20, 1937, one of the greatest jazz/pop singers of all time, NANCY WILSON, was born in Chillicothe, Ohio.

Her big break came in the early 1960s when bandleader/musician Cannonball Adderley hired her to sing with his band and record with him as well. In due time, she went out on her own, developed a huge following and became known for songs such as “(You Don’t Know) How Glad I Am,” “Face It Girl, It’s Over” and “Guess Who I Saw Today.”

On Feb. 11, 1967, THE SUPREMES reached No. 1 on the national charts with “Love Is Here And Now You’re Gone.” It was the famed trio’s ninth No. 1 hit.

On Feb. 16, 1965, a monumental talent was lost when singer/pianist NAT “KING” COLE made his transition. He was the ultimate smooth crooner and was a major influence on many other singers. Cole had a plethora of hits to his credit, including “(Get Your Kicks On) Route 66,” “Nature Boy,” “Ramblin’ Rose,” “Mona Lisa” and, of course, “The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas to You).”

The Jackson 5

On Feb. 13, 1988, KEITH SWEAT began his long string of hits with “I Want You” that reached No. 1 on the national charts and remained there for three weeks. It was also one of the first recordings with the sound

James Brown

See History Page D-2

EXACTLY when is the very long awaited Anita Baker album, “Lately,” going to be released?

The single of the same name was released in August.

The fans are getting Anita Baker anxious.

Kudos to Michelle Williams of Destiny’s Child for taking the high road by not responding to the verbal attack launched against her by relatively new singer Keyshia Cole. Sometimes the best way to respond to ignorance is with silence.

Usually, when singers, rappers, etc. attack another artist, the purpose is to generate publicity. The hope is that the targeted artist will fire back, which will in turn result in talk on radio, television, the Internet, etc.

It would not be surprising to learn that Cole has a new album coming out soon.

Dexter Gordon

Nancy Wilson

Roberta Flack

Fats Domino

IT IS a great honor for Stevie Wonder to Stevie Wonder have had his classic hit, “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours,” featured so prominently in Barack Obama’s presidential campaigns.

See Reflections Page D-2

Eubie Blake

Public Enemy

entertainment

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

February 13-19, 2013 Page D-2

Donald Byrd, Detroit-born jazz star, made huge impact When trumpeter/educator Donald Byrd made his transition on Feb. 4, the jazz world lost one of its most gifted and influential artists.

Although his accomplishments were many and wide-ranging, Byrd is perhaps best known for an album he recorded in 1973 titled “Black Byrd” that boldly blended jazz with R&B, just as Ramsey Lewis and a few others had done previously. A major success in both the jazz and R&B realms, “Black Byrd” was, in fact, the best selling album in the history of the legendary Blue Note record company.

That same year, Byrd created a young band called the Blackbyrds who had many successful recordings of their own.

Born Donaldson Toussaint L’Ouverture Byrd II on Dec. 9, 1932 in Detroit, Byrd attended Cass Tech High School and performed with jazz icon Lionel Hampton while Donald Byrd a student there. After high school, he joined the U.S. Air Force where he played in the military band.

After returning to civilian life, Byrd earned a bachelor’s degre in music from Wayne State University and a master’s degree from the Manhattan School of Music. While at Manhattan, he joined the famed Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers and after moving on in 1956, played with many other jazz greats, including John Coltrane, Thelonius Monk and Herbie Hancock.

Over the years, Byrd taught at numerous institutions of higher learning, among them New York University, Oberlin College, Howard University and Rutgers University.

At the time of his passing, Donald Byrd was living in Teaneck, New Jersey.

History

From page D-1

On Feb. 7, 1883, EUBIE BLAKE, the king of ragtime piano, was born in Baltimore. One of first big breaks of Blake’s career was meeting bandleader/composer Noble Sissle. They began writing songs together and later, in 1921, found themselves a Broadway attraction with the musical “Shuffle Along” featuring their compositions.

On Feb. 3, 1943, DENNIS EDWARDS was born in Birmingham, Alabama. Edwards, who had been a latter-day member of the Contours, was asked to join the Temptations in 1968, replacing the great David Ruffin who had been fired. Subsequently, a new and different era for the Temptations was usherd in with “Cloud Nine,” followed by “I Can’t Get Next to You,” “Psychedelic Shack” and many others. Edwards left the group, returned, left again, returned and then left for good. Today he leads the Temptations Revue featuring Dennis Edwards.

On Feb. 3, 1956, JAMES BROWN (with the Famous Flames) recorded one of his most famous songs, “Please, Please, Please,” which made its national chart debut in early April. Brown developed his classic “cape routine” for live performances of the song.

On Feb. 27, 1923, famed jazz saxophonist DEXTER GORDON was born in Los Angeles. He joined the Lionel Hampton band while still in his teens. He later played in the orchestras of Fletcher Henderson, Louis Armstrong and Billy Eckstine.

On Feb. 19, 1940, the legendary SMOKEY ROBINSON was born in Detroit. While a student at Northern High School, Robinson met Bobby Rogers, his cousin, Claudette Rogers, Pete Moore and Ronnie White. As the Miracles, they landed Motown Record Corporation’s first million seller, “Shop Around,” in early 1961. Dozens of major hits later, Robinson became a solo act, subsequently adding many more hits to his repertoire. He wrote nearly all of his own hits, as well as those by the Miracles and Mary Wells.

On Feb. 6, 1988, the socially and politically attuned rap group PUBLIC ENEMY made their national chart debut with “Bring the Noise.” The influential and sometimes controversial group, led

by Chuck D, had a string of major hit albums, most notably “It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back” and “Fear of a Black Planet.”

On Feb. 26, 1928, one of the most outstanding stars in the history of rhythm and blues and rock and roll, FATS DOMINO, was born in New Orleans, the city his music characterized. Among Domino’s greatest hits are “Blueberry Hill” (a classic), “Whole Lotta Loving,” “Walking to New Orleans,” “Blue Monday” and “Ain’t It a Shame.”

On Feb. 17, 1922, singer TOMMY EDWARDS was born in Richmond, Virginia. He is best remembered for having been the first to record the classic “It’s All in the Game,” a No. 1 R&B and Pop hit in 1958.

On Feb. 12, 1965, JR. WALKER & THE ALL STARS, part of the Motown stable of hitmakers, made their chart debut with what was to become their signature song, the hard-hitting “Shotgun” which stayed No. 1 for a month.

On Feb. 10, 1927, LEONTYNE PRICE, who achieved goddess status in the world of opera, was born in Laurel, Mississippi.

After attending Central State College and the Julliard School of Music, Price sang with orchestras throughout the United as well as Canada and Europe. She made her opera debut in 1957.

Also on Feb. 10, but in 1939, ROBERTA FLACK, the smooth-as-silk songstress, was born in Asheville, North Carolina. Her first break came when she was spotted by famed jazz pianist/vocalist Les McCann who arranged an audition with the company he was recording for, Atlantic. The signing paid off for Atlantic and Flack thanks to, among other things, the massive success of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” “Killing Me Softly With His Song” and “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” plus duets with Donny Hathaway (“The Closer I Get to You,” “Where Is The Love?”) and Peabo Bryson (“Tonight, I Celebrate My Love”).

SLANG comes and goes, but a select few slang words endure, so much so that they are no longer considered representative of a time but have instead become a part of the lexicon.

“Cool” is one such word. It is unlikely that anyone today would use the words “groovy” or “outtasight,” but “cool” is different.

It comes as no surprise that the word, in this context, has its origins in the African American community, dating way back to the 1930s/40s in the jazz world. It has been linked to one jazz musician in particular, saxophonist Lester Young.

As you’ve most likely

RACH E LLE F E R R E LL APRIL 4

(Primary reference source: “This Day in African-American Music” by Ted Holland, Pomegranate Artbooks, 1993.)

Reflections Unfortunately, the song’s other three writers, Lee Garrett, Wonder’s then-wife Syreeta Wright and his mother, Lula Mae Hardaway, who was not a songwriter but contributed what would become the title of the song, are no longer with us.

5.3 in.

10.5 in.

known as new jack swing.

heard by now, Bobbi Kristina Brown, the daughter of Whitney Houston and Bobby Brown, is unhappy about her grandmother Cissy Houston’s book, “Remembering Whitney.”

She said the book is “disrespectful” to her mother and she “won’t tolerate it.”

Cissy Houston loved her daughter, but knew she had to be honest about the bad things as well as the good. My guess is that she told the truth and, as we all know, some people cannot deal with truth. Yet, Bobbi Kristina defending her mother is understandable.

BETCHA DIDN’T KNOW...that Sylvia Robinson wrote “Pillow Talk” for Al Green, but he chose to not record it, believing it was too overtly sexual.

So she recorded it herself, as “Sylvia,” and had a No. 1 hit.

MEMORIES of songs seldom heard today, submitted by reader Wilfred Kelly: “The Nitty Gritty” (Shirley Ellis), “It’s All

From page D-1 Over” (Walter Jackson), “That’s What Girls Are Made For” (the Spinners), “Misery” (the Dynamics), “Out of Sight” (James Brown), “Paradise” (the Temptations), “Follow Your Heart” (the Manhattans), “A House Is Not A Home” (Mavis Staples), “Back Up Train” (Al Green), “Seesaw” (Don Covay).

BLESSINGS to Curtis Boone, Yvonne Gullick, Deena Dunham, Rodney Stevenson, Chris Campbell, Monica Morgan Holiefield, Deena Peace, Jacque Thomas, Alexis Williams, Keith Owens and Marva Stafford.

M O R R I S DAY & T H E T I M E APRIL 18 S o undB oardDetroit.com

WORDS OF THE WEEK, from Will Smith: “Throughout your life, people will make you mad, disrespect you and treat you badly. Let God deal with that because hate will consume you.”

Let the music play!

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

MotorCity Casino Hotel and MotorCity Casino Hotel design are trademarks of Detroit Entertainment, L.L.C. ©2013 Detroit Entertainment, L.L.C. All rights reserved.

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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

February 13-19, 2013

Page D-3

MOTOR CITY ENTERTAINMENT

Calendar Valentine Specials Treat your sweetheart to one of our special selections February 14, 15, & 16 from 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Choose from one of the following:

MAINE LOBSTER DINNER

11/2 Pound Maine Lobster served with Drawn Butter, Roasted Redskin Potatoes Fresh Vegetables, and Dessert Choice Below $34.95

Natalie Cole

RAINBOW TROUT

Sauteed table-side with Fresh Spinach, Rice Pilaf, and Dessert Choice Below $24.95

Morris Day & the Time

CHARBOILED VEAL CHOP

Najee Rihanna

Keith Washington

Charboiled Veal Chop a with a veal demi-glaze served with asparagus, wild rice, vegetables, and Dessert Choice Below $24.95

DESSERT

Martini Strawberry Shortcake or Fried Peach Martini SPEND THE NIGHT AND MAKE IT A COMPLETE PACKAGE

Alicia Keys

Miguel

Boney James

Mark Curry

ERYKAH BADU, Abi Wright, Masonic Temple, Feb. 16. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

MORRIS DAY & THE TIME, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, April 18.

Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino.com.

NATALIE COLE, the Colosseum at Caesars Windsor, April 26. For ticket information, visit www.caesarswindsor. com or call 800.991.8888.

“MY BROTHER MARVIN,” featuring Clifton Powell, Lynn Whitfield, Keith Washington and others, Fisher Theatre, through Sunday, Feb. 17. Tickets on sale at the Fisher Theatre box office and Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

EASTER JAZZ Spectacular, featuring Stanley Clarke, George Duke, Najee, Boney James and Incognito with Maysa, Fox Theatre, March 30. Tickets sold at all Ticketmaster locations and the Fox Theatre box office. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

RACHELLE FERRELL, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, April 4. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino.com.

BUDDY GUY, Jonny Long, Fox Theatre, Thursday, Feb. 14. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and the Fox Theatre box office. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

“HAIR,” Fox Theatre, March 2-3. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and the Fox Theatre box office. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

“JOY OF GOSPEL MUSIC” concerts, presented by Dr. Michael Walker, March 17, Puritan Avenue Baptist Church; April 21, St. Peter AME Zion Church; May 19, Warren Avenue Baptist Church; and June 9, Leggett Chapel AME Church. For more information, call 313.921.9577.

Who said Valentine’s should only last a day? Join us for a weekend Valentine’s celebration from Thursday, February 14 through Saturday February 16, 2013. Celebrate with special room packages that include strawberries and champagne delivered to your room.

Call for complete details. Rates: $129 per night, $139 w/champagne.

Suites: $149 per night ($169 w/champagne).

For reservations, call 313-873-3000

“OLDIES AND MORE” BYOB parties for older adults, St. George Cathedral Cultural Center, 18405 W. Nine Mile Road, Monday, March 8, April 26, May 10, May 24, June 14 and June 28. Call Bobby Green at 313.530.2933 for more information.

RIHANNA, Joe Louis Arena, March 21.

Tickets sold via Ticketmaster locations and the Joe Louis box office. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

ROYAL COMEDY, featuring Mark Curry, Gary Owen, Sommore, Bruce Bruce, Masonic Temple, March 9. Tickets sold via Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

SESAME STREET LIVE, Fox Theatre, through Feb. 18. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and the Fox Theatre box office. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

CHRIS TUCKER, Fox Theatre, March 9. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and the Fox Theatre box office. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

ALICIA KEYS, Miguel, Joe Louis Arena, April 17. Tickets to be sold at the Joe Louis Arena and Ticketmaster locations. You will be able to charge by phone at 1.800.745.3000.

MIKE TYSON, “Undisputed Truth,” Fox Theatre, April 6. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and the Fox Theatre box office. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

DIANA KRALL, the Colosseum at Caesars Windsor, March 2. For ticket infor4.94 in. mation, visit www.caesarswindsor.com or call 800.991.8888.

WHISPERS, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, Thursday, Feb. 14. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino.com.

T I C K E T S O N S A L E N OW!

T H E WO M A N TO WO M A N TO U R

K EYS H I A C O L E with special guest

C H R I S E T T E M I C H E LE AP R I L 11

UNIVERSALPICTURES PRESENTS IN ASSOCIATION WITH RELATIVITYMEDIA A BLUEGRASS FILMS/AGGREGATE FILMS PRODUCTION A SETH GORDON FILM “IDENTITY THIEF” JASONBATEMAN MELISSAMCCARTHY JONFAVREAU AMANDAPEET TIP EXECUTIVE ‘T. I.’ HARRIS GENESIS RODRIGUEZ MUSIC MORRIS CHESTNUT JOHNCHO ROBERTPATRICK ERIC STONESTREET

BY CHRISTOPHER LENNERTZ PRODUCERS PETER MORGAN DANKOLSRUD DIRECTED PRODUCED STORY SCREENPLAY

BY SCOTTSTUBER JASONBATEMAN PAMELA ABDY BY JERRY EETEN AND CRAI G MAZIN

BY CRAI G MAZIN BY SETH GORDON A UNIVERSALPICTURE

SoundB oardDetroit.com

SOUNDTRACK ON BACK LOT MUSIC AND LA-LA LAND RECORDS

© 2012 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS

MotorCity Casino Hotel and MotorCity Casino Hotel design are trademarks of Detroit Entertainment, L.L.C. ©2013 Detroit Entertainment, L.L.C. All rights reserved.

CHECK LOCAL LISTINGS FOR THEATERS AND SHOWTIMES

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Obituaries I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: 11 Timothy 4:7

Sammye Gant Adams Sammye Gant Adams was loving and loved. She was born on March 18, 1919, in Boley, Oklahoma, an independent township founded in 1903 by emancipated Black slaves once held in bondage by Creek Indian tribes.

Throughout the early years of the 20th century, during Sammye’s childhood, Boley became one of the wealthiest Black towns in America. Some of the Boley spirit, which was once praised by Booker T. Washington for its tenacity and commitment to enterprise, was surely injected into Sammye’s character.

She was the oldest of five children born to Samuel and Maude Abram Gant. She is survived by two of her siblings, Ivory Gant Watkins and Johnnie Gant Potts. Clarence and Margie Gant preceded her in death.

Sammye and her siblings suffered the loss of their mother at an early age, and she was sent to live with her paternal uncle and aunt, Alfred and Blanche LuGrand. The extended family left Boley and headed east to Detroit in 1931, just ahead of the town’s economic collapse in 1939. Life in Depression-era Detroit could not have been easy for the family, but the Boley spirit saw them through.

Sammye attended public school in Detroit and continued on to college. She initially attended Langston University, which is still the only historically Black college in the state of Oklahoma, and where her parents first met. She finished college, however, at Wayne State University, with a degree in education. She possessed all the attributes of a natural teacher: a lively mind and the gift of curiosity, kindness and patience, a gentle exterior with a no-nonsense core. Armed with her teacher’s degree, she embarked on a career as an elementary teacher in the Detroit Public Schools as the nation was engulfed in World War II. Like many young women during the era, Sammye fell in love with a handsome solider. Lonnie E. Adams shared Sammye’s passion for success and her dedication to hard work. They also shared a sense that life in postwar America, in the wake of the war to preserve democracy and defeat fascism, could be better, more equitable and more open to opportunity and talent.

The couple married on Oct. 6, 1946 at St. Stephens AME Church and began a new life together. Lonnie was a retail pharmacist and the first African-American to own a pharmacy on Linwood Avenue. The young couple enjoyed a good and lucrative life. Their family was made whole in 1952 with the adoption of a son, Lonnie E. Adams, Jr. The family moved to Oakland, California in the late 1950s.

Sammye resumed her teaching career and made a home, while Lonnie Sr. worked as a nuclear pharmacist at the Veterans Administration Hospital, and Lonnie Jr., pursued his education and grew to adulthood. In addition to providing constant support to husband and son, Sammye was extremely active in the Oakland community, giving of her time, wisdom and compassion for others.

She was also active in church communities, attending Hillside Presbyterian Church and later First Presbyterian of Oakland.

Strong in faith and purpose, she and Lonnie served in various leadership roles in both institutions, and they remained active in the Langston University alumni group. They were married for 59 years in a union ended only by Lonnie’s death in 2005.

Still loved and loving till the end, Sammye’s earthly existence ended peacefully on Thursday, Jan. 10, 2013. The family would like to give a special thank you to Mr. Herb Thomas and his staff as well as the staff of the Mercy Retirement and Care Center who were instrumental in providing care and comfort in the last few years of her life.

Sammye Adams is survived by her son Lonnie Adams, Jr.; her brother and sister- in-law, Richard and Pat Adams; and brother and sister-in-law, Paul and Marilyn Dillard. One sister, Ivory, lives in Atlanta and the other, Johnnie, resides in Oklahoma City. Another surviving sister-in- law, Henrietta Gant, lives in Detroit.

Sammye Gant Adams’ life touched hundreds of lives in Boley, Detroit, Oakland and beyond. She will be much missed and much remembered by her many nephews, nieces, grand and great-grand nephews and nieces and others.

Alice Batchelor Services were held for Alice Batchelor Jan. 26 at Plymouth United Church of Christ, with Rev. Dr. Nicholas Hood III officiating.

Mrs. Batchelor, 93, died Jan. 20.

She was born June 18, 1919 in New York City, and graduated from high school a year early. She subsequently earned a bachelor of arts in Spanish literature, from Howard University. Throughout her life, she was passionate about Spanish and Hispanic culture.

She married Melvin Batchelor in 1945, after meeting him in Detroit the previous year. The couple subsequently settled in the city.

She taught elementary school and subsequently earned a master’s in bilingual education at Wayne State University. She also studied at the University of Guadalajara in Mexico.

She loved learning about other cultures and traveled extensively.

Mrs. Batchelor is survived by her children, Karen, Paula and Thomas Batchelor; grandchildren, Charles Farmer III and Madison Batchelor; and many others.

Entombment was at Elmwood Cemetery. Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home.

Carrie Mae Wilson Services were held for Carrie Mae Wilson Nov. 26 at Greater Mitchell Temple COGIC, with Dr. Dimitri Paul officiating. Mrs. Wilson, 70, died Nov. 19.

She was born Oct. 13, 1942 in Birmingham, Ala., and educated in the Detroit Public Schools System.

She was employed by the Detroit Public Schools for many years until her retirement.

She also worked in private adult care homes for mentally challenged and disabled adults.

She also sewed, crafted hats and re-covered upholstery by hand.

Mrs. Wilson was an active member of Higher Ground International Ministries, where she served as church mother and adult Sunday School teacher. She also worked in the women’s department.

She was also a founding member of God’s People Outreach Ministries, where she served as church mother and Sunday School director for five years.

She was also state supervisor of women for the Focus Hope International Fellowship Ministries.

She is survived by her daughter, Christina Thomas; son, Eric Wilson; five grandchildren; one great grandson; sisters, Emma Jean Duncan, Corine Duncan and Cecelia Carson; and many others.

Interment was at Elmwood Cemetery. Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home.

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Elizabeth Smith Services were held for Elizabeth Smith Feb. 4 at Central CME Church. Ms. Smith, 87, died Jan. 25.

She was born Nov. 4, 1925.

She was employed by IBM for 15 years.

After retiring, she became the secretary of Central CME Church.

She is survived by her stepdaughters, Dorothy Lovell, Rosetta Richard, Rosalyn Wooten, and Roberta Smith; sister, Margie Alford Keese; brother, Homer Alford; several nieces and nephews; and many others.

Barbara Brown Services were held for Barbara Brown Jan. 5 at Outer Drive Faith Lutheran Church, with Rev. Eddie Morales officiating. Mrs. Brown, 76, died Dec. 31.

She was born April 12, 1936 and educated at Pershing High School. She subsequently earned a degree in education from Wayne State University.

After getting her master’s in education, Mrs. Brown was employed in the Detroit Public Schools System for 38 years. She spent most of those years working at McDowell Elementary School.

She enjoyed going to church, reading, listening to her voice Bible, going out to dinner with her husband, spending countless hours with her grandchildren, watching funny reality TV shows, and gardening.

She also loved planning family reunions.

She was also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.

She is survived by her husband, John Brown, Jr.; children, Apryl, Daryck, John and Wendi Brown; seven grandchildren; one great grandchild; siblings, Marlene Griggs and Byron Griggs; and many others.

Interment was at Elmwood Cemetery. Arrangements were handled

by Swanson Funeral Home.

Bettye Dowdell Services were held for Bettye Dowdell Jan. 26 at First Glory Baptist Church. Mrs. Dowdell, 79, died Jan. 22.

She was born Aug. 31, 1933 in Vicksburg, Miss., and educated in the Detroit Public Schools System. She graduated from Miller High School in 1951.

She subsequently went to nursing school, and was employed at Henry Ford Hospital.

She retired after 30 years of service.

Mrs. Dowdell was an active member of Truth Faith Church, where she served on the Nurse’s Guild and Trustee Board, and worked in the feeding ministry.

She enjoyed fishing, cooking and crocheting.

She is survived by her children, Sheila Dowdell, Marsha Dowdell-Williams, Vickey Dowdell, Demetri Dowdell and Milton Dawson; six grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; three great grandchildren; and many others.

Interment was at Detroit Memorial Park West. Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home.

Gloria Whittaker Services were held for Gloria Whittaker Dec. 15 at Church of the Madonna, with Fr. Tim Kate officiating. Mrs. Whittaker, 89, died Dec. 5.

She was born June 25, 1923 in Wallace, La., and moved to Flint as a toddler. She was educated at Central High school and St. Matthew’s High School. She was the first African American to graduate from the latter in 1940.

She subsequently studied psychology at Xavier University of Louisiana for two years. Later, she transferred to Howard University.

She married the late Peter Whittaker, a Tuskegee Airman, in 1946. They lived in Detroit for a time before moving to South Carolina.

After her husband died, she moved back to Detroit, where she worked at several jobs. She eventually retired from the A.T.A.C. Division of the Detroit Arsenal.

She also worked for several years at the Focus: HOPE Center for Children.

She is survived by her children, John Whittaker and Patrice Whittaker; three grandchildren; a great grandson; and many others.

Interment was at United Memorial Gardens in Plymouth. Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home.

Coley Houston Services were held for Coley Houston Jan. 10 at Greater Christ Baptist Church, with Pastor James C. Perkins officiating. Mrs. Houston, 100, died Jan. 1.

She was born Nov. 7, 1912 in Lee County, Alabama, and educated in the public schools of Alabama and Georgia.

Mrs. Houston was an active and charter member of Greater Christ Baptist Church.

She enjoyed sports, traveling and family.

She is survived by her devoted cousins, Henry Matthews, Kumari Matthews, Janet Allen, Dorothy White, Shirley Davis, Andrew Matthews, Tellie Green, Ari Dixon, Nathaniel Zachary and William Zachary; a host of nieces and nephews; and many others.

Interment was at Elmwood Cemetery. Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home.

Charlene Black Services were held for Charlene Black Feb. 2 at Metropolitan Baptist Church. Mrs. Black died Jan. 27.

She was educated at Northeastern High School, and subsequently began a career with Ford Motor Credit in accounting.

She later went to work for the accounting department at Ford Motor Company. She retired in 2000 after 30 years of service.

She married Ronald McCree after graduation; and Louis Black in 1982.

She loved being with her family and knew how to have a good time. She traveled the world, was a member of the Oak Park Red Hats in Motion, and was an avid RVer and member of the National African American RV Association.

He also enjoyed watching movies, relaxing and crocheting.

In addition, she made beautiful pottery.

Mrs. Black was an active member of Metropolitan Baptist Church, where she was ordained as a Deacon in 2007. She loved to attend Bible Study and was active with the Altar Circle.

She is survived by her husband, Louis; daughter, Elaine; son, Ronald, Jr.; stepchildren, Raquel Banks and Nathaniel Black; six grandchildren; and many others.

Interment was at Mt. Hope Memorial Gardens in Livonia.

Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home.

Feb. 6 - Feb. 13, 2013

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Georgie Mae Reese Services were held for Georgie Mae Reese Dec. 22 at Wayside Missionary Baptist Church. Mrs. Reese, 89, died Dec. 16.

She was born May 11, 1923 in Matthews, GA., and married the late Richard Reese in 1943.

Mrs. Reese was an active member of Wayside Missionary Baptist Church.

She is survived by her children, Richard, Jr., Clifford and Mary Ann Reese; eight grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; nine great-great children; and a host of nieces and nephews; and many others.

Interment was at Lincoln Cemetery. Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home.

Angela Carter Services were held for Angela Carter recently at True Light Baptist Church, with Minister Martin Allen officiating. Ms. Carter, 53, died Nov. 15.

She was born Nov. 15, 1959 and educated in the Detroit Public Schools System. Ms. Carter, who was affectionately called “Bonnie”, graduated from Northeastern High School and subsequently studied at the Detroit Business Institute.

She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, reading her Bible and watching T.V. She was also a very loyal Detroit Tigers fan. Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her fiancé, Bonnie Hasberry, the love of her life for 17 years.

She is survived by her sisters Brenda and Cheryl; brothers,Raymond, Jr., Dennis and Ellis; and many others.

Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home.

Richmond Vaughn, Jr. Services were held for Richmond Vaughn, Jr. Jan. 9 at New Breed International Christian Center, with Dr. Kenneth Howard officiating. Mr. Vaughn, 76, died Dec. 31.

He was born Oct. 31, 1936 in White Cloud, Mi., and educated in the Muskegon School System. He graduated in 1955.

While at school, he was a track star and held the push-ups championship for four years.

He was employed at CWC Textron in Muskegon until 1967 and moved to Detroit the following year. He was employed at Chrysler until his retirement in 2007.

Mr. Vaughn enjoyed listening to jazz, fishing, hunting, western movies, and billiards.

He is survived by his wife, Carrie; sons, Douglas and Denis; daughter, Iva; stepchildren, LaDise Thomas, Sheryl, Cheryl and Sylvia; 13 grandchildren; sister, Delores Malone; and many others.

Johnnie Robinson Services were held for Johnnie Robinson Dec. 22 at Plymouth United Church of Christ, with Rev. Dr. Nicholas Hood II officiating. Mrs. Robinson, 93, died Dec. 13.

She was born March 8, 1919 in Birmingham, Ala. and educated at Miles College in Birmingham. She subsequently moved to Ocilla, GA to pursue a teaching career.

In 1941, she married John Robinson, and the couple subsequently moved to Detroit.

Mrs. Robinson received her Michigan teaching certificate from Wayne State University. She completed the program ahead of schedule, and was committed to assisting others in the pursuit of continuing their education.

She earned her master’s degree from Wayne State, and continued for 30 hours beyond her master’s in mathematics from the University of Detroit.

Mrs. Robinson was employed as an elementary school teacher in the Detroit Public Schools for many years, and later became an administrator. She became the assistant principal at Campbell Elementary School and also taught adult education classes. She subsequently became site coordinator of the adult education evening programs. Later, she became principal of McCullough Elementary School. She retired from the DPS in 1984 after 43 years.

She is survived by her daughters, Coy Lynn and Carmyn; and many others.

Interment was at Woodlawn Cemetery. Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home.

James Levy Services were held for James Levy Jan. 7 at Burnette Baptist Church, with Dr. Ro Caldwell officiating. Mr. Levy, 56, died Dec. 24.

He was born April 7, 1956 in Cleveland, and educated an East Technical High School in that city. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard in Detroit, and worked diligently in the Detroit Public Schools System for 20 years, until his retirement.

He was loved by all who knew him.

He is survived by his children, Catrese, Lafayette and Kenyatta Levy and Kathleen Levy-Smith; 13 grandchildren; seven sisters; and many others.

Interment was at Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery. Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home.

Roderick Hicks Services were held for Roderick Hicks Jan. 15 at The Kingdom of Universal Truth.

Mr. Hicks, 71, died Jan. 2.

He was born July 1, 1941 and educated in the Detroit Public Schools System. He graduated from Northern High School in 1960, and subsequently joined the U.S. Army. While in the Army, he played in the military band across the southern U.S. One of the most important things he did was participate in an eight-week jazz program in Dakar Synagogul, West Africa. The program was sponsored by the United States of America Information Agency. It involved 21 students from 12 countries. Mr. Hicks helped take America’s gift of Jazz to the world and African students.

He is survived by his brothers, Randolph, Timothy and Rowlett; sister, Phillis; several nieces and nephews; and many others.

God saw you were getting weary So He did what He thought best, He came and stood beside you, And whispered, “Come and Rest”...

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Celebrating Black History Month: Detroit Pistons award $20,000 in scholarships The Detroit Pistons are awarding $20,000 in college scholarships from the Come Together Foundation to high school seniors for the eighth annual Pistons Black History Month “Moving Detroit Forward” scholarship competition, sponsored by Sprite, Humana and Family Dollar. Pistons Legend Rick Mahorn will host the competition in the West Atrium of The Palace of Auburn Hills on Tuesday, Feb. 12 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Eight high school seniors — from Frederick Douglass Academy for Young Men, Communication & Media Arts High School, East English Village Preparatory Academy, Detroit International Academy, and Loyola High School, all in Detroit; Hamtramck High School in Hamtramck; Carman Ainsworth High School in Flint and Pontiac High School – will compete for a $10,000 grand prize. The second place winner receives a $5,000 scholarship and the third and fourth place winners will each receive a $2,500 scholarship.

The theme of the competition is “MOVING DETROIT FORWARD: In the spirit of Michigan Black History, what steps will you take to be impactful in the future?” Each student will be given two minutes

to answer the question in the medium of their choice (spoken word, song, essay, etc.) for a panel of judges.

Joining Mahorn on the panel of judges: Ray Scott, Pistons legend; Glenda Lewis, WXYZ-TV-7 anchor; Dr. Darrius, HOT 107.5 radio personality; Anqunette Jamison, WJBK-TV Fox 2 anchor; Sharon McClendon, WMYD-TV Channel 20 director of Community Affairs; Portia Roberson, Senior White House staffer; Naomi Patton, senior director of Public Relations, Palace Sports & Entertainment, Courtney Elliott, Coca-Cola Refreshments Midwest & Great Lakes multi-cultural commercialization and Gennifer Jeffries, Humana community relations manager.

The Pistons are also hosting an online Black History Month essay competition on www.pistons.com to award an additional $2,500 scholarship. High school seniors statewide can apply by submitting a 2,500word essay by Friday, Feb. 15. The winner will be notified the week of Feb. 18.

All scholarship winners will be recognized at the Feb. 23 Pistons vs. Indiana Pacers game at The Palace.

5 resolutions for your business in 2013 Almost on a daily basis, news reports detail the marketplace factors that can affect businesses large and small. No matter what the potentially game-changing info coming out of Washington, D.C., or China, though, there are winning strategies that not only endure but should be part of every workplace’s culture, says financial expert and small-business advocate Chris Hurn.

“With some merit, analysts are always reviewing contingencies that may change investments by businesses; most recently, the ‘fiscal cliff.’ But there are many ways to invest in your own business regardless of the economic climate,” says Hurn, author of “The Entrepreneur’s Secret to Creating Wealth: How the Smartest Business Owners Build Their Fortunes,” (www.TheEntrepreneursSecretBook.com).

you’re available to comment when there’s news to report. If you simply don’t have time for this, consider investing in a reasonablypriced PR firm.

Chris Hurn is CEO and co-founder of Mercantile Capital Corp. based in Orlando, Fla. MCC has earned numerous accolades and has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, BloombergBusinessWeek, Inc. magazine, Forbes and SmartMoney, among others. Hurn has been a frequent guest on Fox Business News and PBS. He graduated from Loyola University Chicago with two magna cum laude bachelor’s degrees and earned his master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania’s Fels Institute (formerly at the Wharton School of Business). He is also the CEO, chairman and co-founder of an upscale men’s barbershop franchise called Kennedy’s All-American Barber Club.

it pays to advertise Michigan Chronicle 313-963-5522

Hurn reviews the resolutions business owners and entrepreneurs should consider to make 2013 the most positively transformative year: • Consider buying: After a business has survived three to six years and is stable, commercial property ownership is a natural next step with benefits that new entrepreneurs often overlook, says Hurn, who has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, BloombergBusinessWeek and other financial publications and TV news shows. Ownership is a path to more stability and long-term wealth, and the government program administered by the Small Business Administration – SBA 504 – offers long-term financing at belowmarket fixed rates.

• Self-investment: Often in business, one measure of strength reflects your strength of character, so invest in yourself!

Identify business books that focus on areas you need to develop or lessons shared by successful business people you admire.

Commit to reading at least one per month.

• Company culture: Your company’s culture has a lot to do with your success. Come up with three ideas that will improve your company’s culture and take action on them. Improved health, the most universal resolution, can have a profoundly positive impact on the workplace, from boosting morale to increasing productivity.

• Refresh/jumpstart marketing: Identify three new marketing initiatives that you can implement on a regular and ongoing basis. Start small and track which ideas seem to have teeth. Remember — repetition and consistency are keys here.

• Become an authority in your field: Research publications in your industry and pitch yourself as a media source. This can net you some free PR later in the year. The key is to focus on media outlets – become a familiar name so they can turn to you as a reliable source. You have to convince contacts that you know your stuff and that

Celebrating innovators – past and present

By Cameka Crawford Innovator: Someone who pushes the boundaries of the known world. A change agent who is relentless in making things happen. A transformer. No matter how you define innovator, one thing is certain.

An innovator is an individual who blazes trails, inspires others and changes their community for the better.

In recognition of Black History Month, Verizon Wireless is honoring four pioneers and five innovators through its Celebrating Your Story initiative. Now in its third year, Celebrating Your Story pays tribute to individuals who have made significant contributions in the areas of technology, sports, film, music and lifestyle.

This year’s pioneers and innovators include Jill Scott, Navarrow Wright, E. David Ellington, Lia Neal, Maritza Correia, Jeff Henderson, B. Smith, Will Packer and Robert Townsend.

Is there someone in your life who inspires you? Say thank you and celebrate their story by nominating them for Verizon’s Unsung Innovator contest now through Feb. 15. If your submission is chosen as the winner, your innovator will win a Samsung Galaxy NoteTM II and their story will be published on Verizon Insider.

February 13 -19, 2013

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

In memoriam

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

ROMEO HARVEY

October 1st 1949 – February 8th 2012

PERSONAL SERVICES MRS. LINN

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

Why you’re so unlucky. If your loved one is true or false.

I will advise you all problems of life, such as love, marriage, business and health, etc. Why suffer, you can be free from all troubles. I guarantee Sucess where others failed. I am superior to any other reader you have seen.

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

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

ADVERTISEMENT TO BID PROPOSALS ARE INVITED FOR a single contract for Interior and Exterior

Renovation Construction Services at 4401 Conner St., Detroit, MI 48215 until 3:00 p.m. on March 4, 2013 at 4401 Conner St., Detroit, MI 48215. No bids will be accepted after this time.

DESCRIPTION OF WORK: Work to include general construction including fire line connection for interior sprinkler system, fencing, razor wire installation, mechanical gate installation, security camera and intercom installation, relocation of exterior signage, interior office signage, remodeling two interior offices into a small conference room, an ADA compliant bathroom, and updated DDC controls for HVAC equipment. This will be a phased project over two years.

OWNER:

Warren/Conner Development Coalition 4401 Conner St. Detroit, MI 48215

ARCHITECT:

Thomas Roberts, Architect 458 Orange St. Wyandotte, MI 48192 Contractors desiring to bid shall demonstrate the following qualifications: at least five years of experience in the relevant trades, licensed as required by state or local law, general liability and auto insurance with the City of Detroit and Warren/Conner Development Coalition named as additional insured; worker’s compensation insurance also required.

Bid packs will be available by contacting Jacqueline Bejma: (313) 331-3280, jbejma@warrenconner.org.

A mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held on Friday, March 1, 2013 at 2:00 p.m.

The owner reserves the right to waive any irregularity in any bid or reject any or all bids should it be deemed in its best interest. Funding for this project is provided through the City of Detroit, Planning and Development Department. The successful contractor will be required to comply with federal laws governing equal opportunity with the prevailing wage requirements of the Federal Labor Standards Act which also incorporates Davis-Bacon Act requirements, will have to be cleared and approved by the City of Detroit, and comply with the Executive Order No. 2007-1 employment of local labor on publicly funded construction and demolition projects as follows: Per Executive Order No. 2007-1 all City of Detroit Project Construction Contracts shall provide that at least fifty one percent (51%) of the workforce shall be bona fide Detroit residents. In addition, Detroit residents shall perform fifty one percent (51%) of the hours worked on the project.

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Universal Learning Academy 28015 Joy Road Westland, MI 48185 Grades: Pre-K – 9, Ages 4–14 3/1/2013 thru 3/30/2013, 9 AM - 3:30 PM 3/8/13, 10AM- 6PM & 3/9/13, 9:30AM-12PM PUBLIC LOTTERY 5/15/2013 @ 3:30 PM @ 28015 Joy Road, Westland, MI 48185 For more information call 734-402-5900, fax 734-402-5901

OPEN ENROLLMENT Star International Academy 24425 Hass Street Dearborn Heights, MI 48127 Grades: Pre-K – 12, Ages 4–19 3/1/2013 thru 3/30/2013, 9 AM - 3:30 PM 3/8/13, 10AM-6PM & 3/9/13, 9:30AM-12PM PUBLIC LOTTERY 5/03/2013: (Pre-K–2) @ 1:45 PM @ 24480 George St, Dearborn Heights, MI 48127 5/03/2013: Grades 3–12 @ 2:45 PM @24425 Hass St, Dearborn Heights, MI 48127 For more information call 313-724-8990, fax 313-724-8994

OPEN ENROLLMENT

Grades: Pre-K – 12, Ages 4–19 3/1/2013 thru 3/30/2013, 9 AM - 3:30 PM 3/8/13, 10AM- 6PM & 3/9/2013, 9:30AM-12PM

announcements

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ARMED SECURITY OFFICERS

4612 Lonyo St. Detroit, MI 48210

Your wife Bernadette Harvey and loving sons Brandon and James Harvey

help wanted

announcements

Universal Academy

Many times we’ve missed you! many times we’ve cried!

But when GOD sent you to me he never said you were mine and that I could keep you always but I could only borrow you for a while.

If Love could have saved you, you never would have died.

Yet I’m glad GOD loaned you to us and we had so many great years with you.

Page D-5

PUBLIC LOTTERY 5/10/2013 @ 2:00 PM @ 4612 Lonyo St., Detroit, MI 48210 For more information call 313-581-5006, fax 313-581-5514

CITY OF ROYAL OAK, MICHIGAN ADVERTISEMENT NOTICE TO REQUEST FOR BIDS FOR 2013 SIDEWALK HANDICAP RAMP IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM CONTRACT NO. SW-1304 Community Development Block Grant Project. Information pertaining to bidding and availability of plan and specifications can be obtained through the City of Royal Oak website at www.ci.royal- oak.mi.us/city/appforms. htm. and the Michigan Intergovernmental Trade Network (MITN) www.govbids.com/scripts/ MITN/public/home.asp

Minimum qualifications-Must be at least 21 years old, able to pass physical examination, agility test, drug and alcohol screen, extensive background investigation (work history, credit record, criminal history) and possess valid high school diploma or GED. We offer starting pay of $12.96 per hour, excellent benefits, plus the opportunity to advance.

For Further information call: (734) 586-1211 (Monday-Friday, 8:30-3:30 p.m.)

PLACE YOUR STATEWIDE AD HERE! $299 buys a 25-word classified ad offering over 1.6 million circulation and 3.6 million readers. Contact mich-can@michiganpress.org.

Seeking

Associate Director, Center for Excellence in Medical Education School of Medicine

Strive to provide professional development opportunities for Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine’s clinical and non-clinical faculty. The Associate Director shall teach, develop and implement cohesive and comprehensive faculty development programs. Minimum Qualifications: Doctoral degree Ph.D., M.D. or Ed.D. Substantial experience working in academic settings; including supervision of academic and professional personnel. Demonstrated ability to teach, organize and create faculty development programs. Refer to online posting for additional requirements. Salary is up to the mid $90’s annually. See on line positing for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by February 18, 2013. Must apply on line for this position to: https://jobs.oakland.edu Seeking

Administrative Coordinator for Special Services, PSA Department at Oakland University Charter Schools

This position will provide expertise and guidance on issues related to school operations, governance, general compliance and student achievement as well as assistance in the overall management and operation of the School of Education and Human Services’ Office of Public School Academies. Minimum qualifications require a Bachelor’s Degree in Administration or Education or an equivalent combination of education with specialized knowledge and experience within the field of special education. One year of administrative experience in a K-12 setting. Refer to online posting for additional qualifications and requirements.

Salary up to the high $40s, commensurate with education and experience. There may be extended evening or weekend meetings and/or activities. First consideration will be given to those who apply by February 20, 2013. Must apply on line for this position to: https://jobs.oakland.edu.

NOTICE OF HEARINGS REGARDING MATTERS TO COME before the City Council of Detroit. Advertisements for bids and contracts for purchases by the City of Detroit appear daily in the Detroit Legal News.

Copies are available at the City County Bldg. and at 2001 W. Lafayette, Detroit.

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help wanted

Accounting Clerk I/II Canton Township is now accepting applications for Accounting Clerk I/II. Application Deadline: 4 p.m. Wednesday, February 20, 2013.

Job description with complete qualifications and hiring process is available on the Canton Township website: www.canton-mi.org. (EOE)

LOOKING TO ADVERTISE IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE CALL NOW (313) 963-5522

Digital Content Manager What do you get when you mix part writer, editor, musicologist, pop culture phenom, student of social media and add a dash of meme creator? The making of Greater Media Interactive’s newest Digital Content Manager. Our new team member will be a self-starter that creates and maintains content, including text, video, photos and graphics, driving traffic and conversations to our station sites, social and mobile efforts and builds communities. Writing and editing succinct, fact-filled content in a compelling and active tone for our music and pop culture feeds are at the core of these positions duties. Did we mention that a great sense of humor is key (We really like to laugh…a lot. Seriously. A lot.).

Our Content Manager will have advanced computer skills and experience with end user Internet publishing tools and be adept at using Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, etc...) and audio/video editing software. A working knowledge of HTML, CSS would be a huge plus. If you think you’ve got what it takes to be our next Content Manager, send over your cover letter, résumé, samples of your past successes and your favorite meme no later than February 28th to: Greater Media Interactive, Attn: Jennifer Williams, One Radio Plaza, Detroit, Michigan 48220 or email: jwilliams@greatermedia.com No phone calls please.

Greater Media is an Equal Opportunity Employer

community ARIES

STAR CHART

This week romance begins to percolate. Enjoy your feelings and let your brain relax. Suspend all judgments of others. Being stern won’t work for you this week. Be guided by love and you’ll never get lost.

Soul Affirmation: I go along to get along.

Lucky Numbers: 1, 6, 19

LEO

This week should bring an opportunity to further your education.

Don’t pass it up. Pay special attention to details at work. A friend needs your support. Find joy in giving it. Look for opportunities to love.

Soul Affirmation: All things work together for good.

Lucky Numbers: 26, 35, 43

TAURUS

Romance will find you this week.

Don’t be looking the other way.

Your “rap� is especially strong.

Make as many of those important phone calls as possible. Make some of your calls focus on love.

Soul Affirmation: Friendships are shock absorbers on the bumpy roads of life.

Lucky Numbers: 11, 13, 20

VIRGO

You and your mate should increase your saving for the future this week.

Future plans should be spotlighted.

A relationship is likely to take a serious turn. Be open to making an unusual purchase.

Soul Affirmation: I can see clearly now, the rain is gone. There are no obstacles in my way.

Lucky Numbers: 10, 30, 50

GEMINI

Don’t take any big gambles this week, the time is not right for a flight into the unknown. A newfound harmony is in store for you and your mate. Your mate will understand your fears. Give thanks for that understanding Soul Affirmation: New insights create new directions and a new cast of characters.

Lucky Numbers: 6, 48, 51

LIBRA

You and your partner are on the same wavelength. If you are presented with a contract this week, it’s an ideal week to reach an agreement. Make the important phone call to set things up. Make love, not war.

Soul Affirmation: What I’ve been waiting for has been here all along.

Lucky Numbers: 4, 6, 33

CANCER

The air can be cleared easily. Admit your need for help. Seek understanding. You’ll help another by seeking help from them. Communication problems will smooth themselves out. That is the way life tends to be.

Soul Affirmation: Moving slowly might be the fastest way.

Lucky Numbers: 33, 52, 54

SCORPIO

Beware of financial pitfalls that you’ve set for yourself. Strengthen all your relationships by understanding motivations of others.

Spend time at home. Enjoy what you already have. Looking for something new is not what you should do right now.

Soul Affirmation: Often it’s not what I say but the way I say it that gets the message across.

Lucky Numbers: 4, 6, 47

SAGITTARIUS

Don’t expect to win every battle, especially with your lover. This week winning is losing. Backing down is winning. It’s easy to collect that longstanding debt. Thank the universe for what you have.

Soul Affirmation: I keep money on my mind this week.

Lucky Numbers: 18, 25, 39

CAPRICORN

Possibilities of hearing good news about home are greatly expanded.

Savor the news rather than thinking about other annoyances. Travel is on the horizon. Plan the trip this week.

Soul Affirmation: Jewelry reflects the beauty of my feelings about myself.

Twenty-five Detroit art galleries, boutiques and cafes will stay open until 9pm, with special programs and activities on the third Thursday of every month. Art Detroit Now presents third Thursday, which will kick off on Thursday, Feb. 21.

The initiative is yet another step to help showcase Detroit’s expanding art scene and connect the diverse art community and businesses among the city’s neighborhoods. “Third Thursday is a simple idea, which is reflecting a bigger moment,� said Simone DeSousa, owner and director of Re:View Contemporary Gallery and See Art + Design. “We have a lot of interest from the outside directed to the arts in Detroit right now, and Third Thursday is an invitation for all who live in the area to actually come out and experience the richness of our art scene and engage in what is happening right here, on a regular basis, in a very accessible way.�

As DeSousa and other gallery owners noted, Detroit’s neighborhoods — such as downtown, Mid-

town, Eastern Market, North End and Corktown — are thought of as being separate. But when thinking about them on an urban geographic scale, these communities are close. “One Thursday evening can make a difference, as it offers that additional window of time to encounter that great art experience people cannot fit into their already busy weekend schedules,� said DeSousa.

Added Tom Pyrzewski, director of Galleries at Wayne State University, “Third Thursday is an opportunity for local venues to further organize the existing dialog between one another. With so many dedicated supporters of the arts in our community and so much going on, it’s considerate to offer a synchronized schedule of events every month. I think Third Thursdays will easily gain national and international exposure and bring more attention to our hardy art scene. It will also help out-of-state visitors to plan accordingly.�

All participating venues will stay open until 9pm on the Third Thurs-

The new record low of 175.57 meters or 576.02 feet is not only the lowest January monthly average water level ever recorded, but also the lowest monthly average ever recorded for any month over the official period of record for Great Lakes water levels, which extends back to 1918.The Corps issues water level forecasts for the Great Lakes in coordination with Environment Canada, and with the use of water level data and forecasting models developed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory and National Ocean Service.

The Corps latest forecasts indicate a strong likelihood for continued record lows on Lake Michigan-Huron over the next several months.

Water levels on the remaining Great Lakes are expected to remain below their respective long-term average water levels, but above record lows. “Not only have water levels on Michigan-Huron broken records the past two months, but they have been very near record lows for the last several months before then.

Lake Michigan-Huron’s

The current record low water levels on Lake Michigan-Huron are the result of lower than average snowfall during

LOTTERY

P I CK S

460 114 789 920 109 404 303 150 871 135 122 824 1-3-11-15-27-31 1194 0231 At Your Service

AT YOUR SERVICE

PLUMBER

ATTORNEY

AQUARIUS Feather the nest. Stock up on things for the long haul. Cement relationships. A friend needs your support. Enjoy giving it. You will receive good news about a pal. Make sure you send congratulations. Celebrate others.

Soul Affirmation: Cheerfully handling what comes at me is the test of who I am.

Lucky Numbers: 13, 22, 31

PISCES

Your mate has a sweet surprise. Be open to receiving it. Choose your words carefully around a sensitive pal. Listen for good news about a loan or financial matter. Leave plenty of time for love.

Soul Affirmation: I let others toot my horn this week.

Lucky Numbers: 27, 28, 41

day of every month with special programming, artist talks, exhibitions and offerings.

Participating venues include: 555 gallery, The Carr Center, Cass CafÊ, City Bird, CCS Center Galleries, Dell Pryor, Detroit Artists Market, N’Namdi Gallery, Germack Coffee Roasting, Heidelberg Project Offices, Henry Ford Community College, Hugh, Kunsthalle Detroit, Library Street Collective, Museum of New Art (MONA), Nest, Nora, Red Bull House of Art, Re:View Contemporary Gallery, Salt & Cedar, Scarab Club, See Art + Design, SignalReturn, Start Gallery, Whitdel, WSU Galleries.

For a complete list of participating venues and a schedule of activities, visit artdetroitnow.com or call 248.258.8808.

Third Thursday is organized by the Founders of Art Detroit Now, which includes College for Creative Studies, Cranbrook, Detroit Artists Market, DIA, G.R. N’Namdi Art Center, MOCAD, Oakland University and Wayne State University. For more information, please contact info@ArtDetroitNow.com.

Lake Michigan-Huron sets all-time record low monthly water level water levels have also been below average for the past 14 years, which is the longest period of sustained below average levels since 1918 for that lake� said John Allis, Chief of the Great Lakes Hydraulics and Hydrology Office at the Corps, the office that monitors Great Lakes water levels.

Week’s Best

Page D-6

Lucky Numbers: 26, 44, 52

Art Detroit Now presents ‘Third Thursday’

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District through its Great Lakes Hydraulics and Hydrology Office reports a preliminary new record low water level for Lake Michigan-Huron for the second month in a row.

February 13-19, 2013

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

the winter of 2011-2012, coupled with the very hot and dry summer. Together these conditions led to only a 4-inch seasonal rise of Lake Michigan-Huron in 2012, compared to an average rise of 12 inches. Also, evaporation was significantly above average during the summer and fall months and contributed to a very rapid seasonal decline.

Above average precipitation and snow cover coupled with below av-

erage evaporation this winter are needed to raise Lake Michigan-Huron water levels above record lows. However, it would take similar conditions over many seasons for levels to rise to near average levels.

The Corps will continue to monitor basin conditions and provide updated information on our website at http://www. lre.usace.army.mil or call the Public Affairs Office at (313) 226-4680.

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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

February 13-19, 2013

Page D-7

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Page D-8 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • February 13-19, 2013