Fuzion Magazine Detroit by Coire Nichols Houston

Volume 2 Number 2 October/November 2005 www.fuzion-mag.com Complementary

Plus our regular features: “Temple Anointing” “The Black Sphere Calendar” “Community Chronicles” “The Mortgage Market” “Paparazzi” and much more …

Motor City Casino Hits the Jackpot with Acclaimed Artist Annie Lee Fuzion Presents

“Embrace the Race,”

your reference guide to the 2005 Detroit City Council and School Board Elections

Fuzion

In this issue The Synthesis A Time for New Beginnings… Coire Nichols Houston

18 Paparazzi Part I

Brenda Lewis

24 The Black Sphere Detroit Happenings October–November

Edward Foxworth III

4 5 6 7 8

28 The Fashion Beat Jeans — Classic or Trend? Jennifer James

34 Temple Anointing Temptation — It Looks Good, But … 35 TECHnology Wireless Security Herman Houston

Feature Story: 30 Motor City Hits the Jackpot with Annie Lee Motor City Casino Hits the Jackpot with Acclaimed Artist Annie Lee

Monica Morgan, Michael Ragland and Jon Stewart This Issue’s contributers

Coire D. Nichols Houston Edward Foxworth, III

Monica Morgan

chouston@fuzion-mag.com

efoxworth@fuzion-mag.com

DESIGN DIRECTOR

Pamela Hines

Monica Morgan Photography 313-259-7005

Herman Houston

rorange@fuzion-mag.com

Jennifer James

mragland@fuzion-mag.com

Roy Kyles

barbara-scott@hotmail.com

Legacy

jstewart@fuzion-mag.com

Michael Micahnik

astokes@fuzion-mag.com

blewis@fuzion-mag.com SENIOR EDITOR

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phouston@fuzion-mag.com jjames@fuzion-mag.com editorial contact

Fuzion Magazine — Detroit PO Box 201127 Ferndale, MI 48220 313-416-2293

“Embrace the Race” Candidates for City Council Orthea Barnes Keith Butler Hilmer Kenty Martha Reeves Bettie Cook-Scott Kwame Kenyatta

10 12 14 15 16

Candidates for School Board Joyce Hayes-Giles — District 5 Carla Scott — District 1 Annie Carter — District 3 Lorena Searcy — District 7 Ellen Toni Childs — at Large Keith Jones — at Large Rev. David Murray — at Large John Williams — at Large

Pamela Hines

38 Paparazzi Part 2

Brenda Lewis

Candidate for City Clerk 7 Janice Winfrey

Rachel Orange

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Special Feature:

Roy Kyles

Michael Micahnik

As she glides through the door, she has the grace of a fashion model working the runway. She’s petite yet, buffed and is very much a lady, but once she puts on her gloves you had better watch out because she’s going for blood …

27 The Book Beat “One Man’s Castle (Amistad)”

37 The Bistro Danaher’s Restaurant

Coire Nichols Houston, Jon Stewart, Photographer

26 Community Chronicles Ring the Alarm: Violence and Change in Our Life and Times

Antonio Stokes

20 Cover Story: Mary Jo Sanders — “Detroit’s Own Million Dollar Baby”

Legacy

36 The Mortgage Market Hot Products

rkyles@fuzion-mag.com legacy@fuzion-mag.com mmicahnik@fuzion-mag.com

Rachel Orange

Michael Ragland Barbara Scott Jon Stewart

Antonio Stokes

We would love to hear from you. Please send your comments and suggestions to: letters@fuzion-mag.com

Copyright 2005 CDN Communications, LLC. Volume 2, Number 2, October/November 2005 (ISSN 1552-7123). All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express consent of the publisher. Published in the U.S.A. Fuzion Magazine is a trademark of CDN Communications, LLC.

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

22 You Don’t Want to Be a Millionaire!

Volume 2 Number 2 • October/November 2005

Monica Morgan, Michael Ragland and Jon Stewart

The Synthesis Coire D. Nichols Houston

A Time for New Beginnings

urprise, we’re back, bigger and better than the last time and we’re just continuing to grow! Fuzion Magazine is here to stay! Check out our new look — I’m certain our content will knock you out. Speaking of knockouts, meet Detroit’s own Million-Dollar Baby, Mary Jo Sanders! Mary Jo tells us about her strong upbringing in Detroit and the triumphs and challenges of being a female in the world of boxing.

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

Detroit, it’s election time again. Fuzion Magazine — Detroit premiered a year ago this month. You may remember that hot-t-t issue that featured all of Detroit’s African American anchorwomen, with our cover story, “The Sisterhood of Media.” At that time we were preparing to hit the polls with the hopes of electing a new president. This time we are preparing for new beginnings right here in Detroit.

field and baby Bradford Houston, best buds from birth! What a way to start off the autumn season, with a new look and a new attitude. Detroit, we’re doing this just for you. As always we welcome all of your feedback, suggestions and ideas. Enjoy … With Peace, Love and Prosperity Always … Coire. Coire D. Nichols Houston is the editor-in-chief of Fuzion Magazine . Feel free to contact her at Chouston@Fuzion-Mag.com.

In this issue of Fuzion, we have Embraced the Race by highlighting some of the new names that have made it to the general election, focusing on our City Council and school board seats. This issue of Fuzion marks the beginning of what we hope to be a long and prosperous relationship with The Michigan Chronicle, Detroit’s oldest African American newspaper, in which our publication will be added as an insert into their subscribers’ papers. We will continue to do this with every issue of Fuzion from this point on. Don’t worry; we will still continue to be available at our various distribution locations. And while we are discussing new beginnings we have two new additions to the Fuzion team. Meet baby Saul Brad-

D E S I G N

T H A T

W O R K S

313.586.9557 • www.ubangigraphics.com

“Embrace the Race” Interviews by Coire Nichols Houston and Barbara Scott

he 2005 Detroit election is one of the most important elections in our city’s history. With the possible election of a new mayor, and the re-establishment of the Detroit Public School Board, we at Fuzion Magazine felt as though it was important to expose all of the candidates who made it to the the general election but may not have name recognition. While we respect the incumbents running for City Council, as well as the mayoral candidates, we knew that their names, reputations, and achievements would speak for themselves. And we kept in mind that the mayoral debates would get wide coverage via television, radio and print.

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

So we contacted more than two dozen lesser-known candidates running for City Council and the school board as well as both candidates for City Clerk and received 15 responses. We thank all of you who interviewed with us. “Embrace the Race” highlights the achievements and the goals of those candidates who responded as a way to give our readers brief, yet detailed, resumes. We attempted to place the name with the face for voter recognition. We also asked the candidates, to provide a personal summary of why they should be elected. For those of you who have been made aware of and attended the various public debates, congratulations! This may give you some additional information on the candidates outside of the questions asked there. To those of you who have not, we hope that this may provide the same and more. In either case, we hope that all of our readers will respect their duty as United States citizens and vote on November 8. See you at the polls. t

Candidates for City Council

Orthea Barnes ties and we have to keep everyone protected and safe.” Orthea Barnes’ campaign initiatives include: ◗ Pursuing minority commercial development in downtown Detroit ◗ Establishing an open line of communication between the Council and citizens ◗ Developing an new urban entertainment district in Detroit ◗ Educating residents on the importance of city government To find out more about Orthea Barnes and her plans as city councilwoman, contact her at 313-821-3612 or email at elect@ OrtheaBarnesforCityCouncil.com. t

Keith B. Butler

ere’s a story of A and B. His name is Keith B. Butler, and the other is Keith A. Butler. He is a city resident, the other is not. He works in the media department for the city of Detroit. The other is a bishop for a big, big church. Most important he is a staunch Democrat, the other is a Republican...and his name has worked for and against him in his effort to gain one of the coveted seats on Detroit’s City Council. Driving down the street one day he had an epiphany of sorts when a billboard sign stuck out like a sore thumb. It said, “Don’t complain about what you allow.” That quote sat with Butler for

quite awhile until, as he says, “I decided to get my feet wet, quit complaining and make the move to run for Council.” While he has not been a vocal part of the Detroit political arena, Butler has had a strong political upbringing. His father, Rev. Charles William Butler, was the official city chaplain, under the Young administration and, as a result met many other civil-rights leaders such as Jesse Jackson and Martin Luther King, as well as Nelson Mandela. Butler is an advocate of the city-residency rule, for city and civil workers such as police and fire departments. “When the residency rule was lifted, the city lost the majority of its residents, which is why our population has

suffered.” It’s his plan of action for reinstating the residency rule which includes improving the quality of life for the city of Detroit residents which is the focus of Butler’s campaign. Other initiatives on the Butler agenda are: ◗ Incentive for police and firefighters to live in various communities ◗ Reallocating funds for city services ◗ Renovation of homes for squatters ◗ Rebuilding the city image ◗ Diverting casino dollars into allocated areas within the city E-mail Keith B. Butler at Detroiterstoelectkeithbbutler@comcast.com. t

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

Barnes is dedicated to uplifting the homeless and the indigent. Through her Spirit, Love Ministries International, Barnes spent many a day on the streets of Detroit, helping the poor. Her ministry has provided food and shelter to those in need, ultimately leading them to rejoining the working class. Because the focus of Barnes campaign is on community involvement, those issues concerning the police and fire departments, as well as education are the top three priorities on her list of objectives for City Council “We have to keep our police officers on duty and prevent the layoffs of both the police and fire departments,” says Barnes. “They are the eyes and ears of our communi-

he was born and raised on Detroit’s far west side, formerly known as the Western Market. This area was fondly remembered as a “Jambalaya” mixture of cultures and ethnicities, located off Michigan and 14th. The common thread of this area was the idea of community, where it took a village to raise a child. Community is the primary focus of Orthea Barnes’ campaign for a seat on City Council: “Detroit as One.” While she is known locally as a jazz legend, what many not know about are her years of civil and social activism. She worked for City Council in the 2003-2004 terms as the legislative director, with the responsibility of managing the city’s budget, giving her legislative insight.

Candidates for City Council

Hilmer Kenty

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

s one of eight children, competitiveness runs deep in his veins. This native Texan was not only attracted to Detroit for its rich heritage, but for Kronk Boxing. Under the tutelage of Emmanuel Stewart he was coached into a wealth of championship bouts. Hilmer Kenty is more than a prize-fighter. He’s been a successful businessman for more than 17 years and is the former owner of Kenty Electrical Supply Company. Kenty had many dealings with the city and has overseen and bid on inner-city projects by seeking approval from City Council. By attending numerous meetings, and observing the interactions of council members, he became convinced that there was a great need for change.

“I thought about running for Council for a few years now, and I saw how there was no unison going on at the meetings. After talking about it for so long, I decided to just do it, and I went ahead and announced my candidacy,” says Kenty. As with other candidates, Kenty sees the need for unity within the City Council, as well as communication within the community. He feels Council members should be much more accountable for their actions and should get more involved with residents. Kenty intends to work toward providing safe and clean neighborhoods and better school systems in an effort to keep people in and attract others to Detroit. “I want to stay in touch with the community by visiting various neighborhood associations and

meeting with them monthly within their homes,” he says.. Kenty initiatives are as follows: ◗ Support for better business ◗ Fighting for seniors’ rights ◗ More council involvement within our communities ◗ A better educational system for our children It is very important to Kenty to communicate with neighborhood associations because they are the voices of Detroit. By visiting his Web site www.kentyforcoucil. com, you can find out more about Hilmer Kenty and his objectives for Detroit. He also plans on keeping this Web site up and operating should he be elected to office as a way to keep an open line of communication with Detroit residents. t

Martha Reeves

“

Don’t ask me what I know about politics and please don’t ask me what I would do if I were a counci woman, because I am not a politician or a councilwoman, YET! I am an entertainer!” And Martha Reeves is just that, but is also a huge supporter of Detroit, and its revitalization. She intends to use her star status to bring more than the Motown sound back to Detroit. Inspired by fellow entertainers Jerry Butler and the Rev. Shirley Caesar, who both sit on the boards of their local city government, Reeves knows that she has plenty to bring to the table on the 13th floor of the Coleman A. Young Municipal Building] It was her role as the acting Motown liaison with the City Council, when she was often asked to accompany members speaking to Detroit’s

youth, that inspired her to run for office. “It was almost like divine intervention, I love this city so much and I am dedicated toward educating the young. It only made sense for me to run for Council,” says Reeves. While she openly admits that she is not the most politically avid person running, she has, she says, the common knowledge of knowing what’s currently missing, and wants to start by emphasizing education. Education not only for the children but the parents — specifically single mothers. Reeves has an initiative in mind that will turn renters into homeowners and plans on educating people on the importance

of home ownership. As a Council member she pledges to be more active within the community, which, she says, is what the current Council has lost as its focus. “I have visited many police precincts to find out more about the needs of the residents within their communities,” says Reeves. In her travels, she has found that Detroit needs tourists, and also has found that we are lacking a much-needed mass-transit system. She plans to put an initiative together to make that happen. Reeves feels that providing quality transportation will attract more people to live in the city as Continued on page 17

Bettie Cook Scott

ettie Cooke Scott is a has worn many hats and has worked at many places. Professionally she is former teacher of the DPS for six years and a retired sergeant from the Detroit Police Department for a little more than 16. At home she is a wife and mother of one, and lifetime community activist/advocate This is not Cook-Scott’s first stint at running for office. In 1998 she ran for City Council, and was in favor of deploying the council members into districts according to their residence. Apparently on Detroit’s lower east side there were and still are no council members living within the Alter, Moross, Mack and Harper roads area and in the Morningside or the East English Village communities. Cook-Scott also ran for a seat in the Statehouse in 2004.

This time she is running for City Council because of what she calls the monopolization of city utilities, particularly the merger of DTE and MichCon. “I am very upset because the state representatives and the City Council allowed a monopoly of our electric and gas bills to be merged. That is something that saddened me and pushed me into action. The separation of Detroit is done by population. The city of Detroit is the only city in the state of Michigan that has over 800,000 people. Therefore, this only applies to the city of Detroit. I am very upset because I grew up very poor as a child and we had to choose each month which bill we could pay. In the winter it was usually the gas and in the summer electricity. Now people do not have that option especially persons with a lower income and seniors who are on fixed ones [incomes],” she says.

The city budget is another issue Cook-Scott plans to tackle head-on. “I am tired of the deficit spending of the City Council. Only spend the money that we bring in. Deficit spending is almost quick ship-sail toward receivership. I believe that the City Council should be better stewards of the cities finances. They say there are a lot of checks and balances but I don’t see any checking or balancing going on,’ she says. Other plans for her spot on City Council” are: ◗ Addressing senior health-care ◗ Developing affordable housing ◗ Empowering our neighborhoods ◗ Pushing for the reopening of utility centers ◗ Stopping insurance company redlining For more information on Bettie CookScott for City Council, contact her at (313) 682-6929. t

anice Winfrey is a native Detroiter, and was educated in the Detroit Public School system. She began her career as a public administrator working as deputy director of youth development for New Detroit, Inc., and she now works for the DPS as a mathematician. Recently there have many allegations and accusations made about the about the current administration under City Clerk Jackie Currie. Janice Winfrey proposes to avoid any confusion when voting by absentee ballot by simply sending correspondence back to the voter indicating that their ballot has been received and their vote has been counted. “I have nothing against Ms. Curry and I told her that person-

ally, but I really feel that it’s now time for a change — it’s time for a breath of fresh air” Winfrey says. Providing clean, well lit polls; clear, easy-to-understand ballot language, where ‘Yes’ means ‘Yes’ and ‘No’ means ‘No’; and providing Detroit with elections that are fair and free of any controversy and confusion are the changes and plans of action that Winfrey endorses and will be at the top of her agenda should she be elected. Winfrey stresses the importance of African Americans’ honoring their right to vote. It is her goal to motivate residents and get out the vote as a right of American citizens. Included in her plan of action are citywide forums created to educate voters. “ This is

the job of the city clerk — to make sure the voters know and are familiar with all the candidates running for office, as well as understanding the proposals and issues which include question-and answer-sessions,” says Winfrey. Winfrey’s initiatives include: ◗ Educating voters ◗ Increasing voter turnout ◗ Restoring dignity to the absentee ballot process As for educating the voter, not only does Winfrey plan on educating at the legal age of 18, but starting at elementary school, taking it throughout high school, and onto college. Winfrey’s initiative consists of coContinued on page 17

Janice Winfrey

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

Candidate for City Clerk

Kwame Kenyatta, Candidate for City Council

e has 35 years of community service, in grass-roots, social activism, or as chair on many boards. Kwame Kenyatta is, he says, a dedicated advocate for the city of Detroit and its residents. “I had no intention of going into politics,” says Kenyatta, who is the former director of the Malcolm X Community Center. It was during the development of the male-centered academies, Malcolm X, and Marcus Garvey, that Kenyatta developed an interest in the Detroit political process. As a result and in an attempt to enforce the need, for allmale academies Kenyatta ran, won and sat on the Detroit Board of Education from

November 1992 until his resignation in October 1997. In 2001 Kenyatta ran for City Council winning the primary but coming in 10th place in the general election. Currently Kwame Kenyatta is one of our Wayne County Commissioners and has been since 2002. His reasoning for running in 2005, “We need leadership and I have a vision that can offer more than what we are getting [with the current City Council].” He adds that the city is in the deficit crisis as a result of poor leadership. Regarding the defect crisis, if he is elected Kenyatta would like to either lease out or eliminate the Civic Center (Cobo Hall), which, he says needs management

restructuring. Public lighting should be leased out to eradicate that expense to the city. And the casinos, he says, should be taxed higher becausde they earn millions of dollars daily, he adds. Kenyatta’s visions include: ◗ Creating a family entertainment mecca on Belle Isle ◗ Joint business ventures with the Port Authority ◗ Creating tax escrows for new businesses ◗ African Town, location for tourism ◗ Senior citizen bill of rights For more information on Kwame Kenyatta’s “Empowering the Vision” for the city of Detroit contact him at (313) 8375520. t

A New Vision For a New City By Kwame Kenyatta As an optimistic resident of the City of Detroit, I would like to believe that the best days for our city are ahead. However, in order for that bright future to emerge, new leaders empowered with new visions must be sought and chosen. Therefore, I have opted to contend for a position on the Detroit City Council in an effort to bring forth and enforce my vision for a better and brighter Detroit. That vision includes the opening of cultural youth centers, amusement parks, and other progressive activities for our young people; establishing a safer community, where our senior citizens are respected, protected, and never rejected; transforming Detroit into an international marketplace where other countries are welcome to market their wares or acquire products and services from members of our local business community. As well as creating a bustling commercial district called Afrikan Town, where cultural gifts and services from black-owned businesses can be offered to the residents of Detroit and beyond, as they are in the Greek Town commercial district. With the purpose of these proposals not being to deny anyone access to the greatness of Detroit, but rather to provide access to those who have been denied. As a member of the Detroit City Council, I will stand and speak for those who cannot stand and speak for themselves. I will represent those without representation. Moreover, I will protect the future for our children and safeguard the golden years for our seniors.

Help Me Empower The Vision For: ◗ ◗ ◗ ◗

Improved City Services Economic Development Neighborhood Development African Town

◗ ◗ ◗ ◗

Community Policing Youth Development Senior Citizen Bill of Rights Clean and Safe Environment

Elect Kwame Kenyatta to the Detroit City Council! Paid for by the Friends of Kwame Kenyatta 16550 Greenfield, Detroit, MI 48235 • www.kwamekenyatta.com • 313-837-5520

Joyce Hayes-Giles, Candidate for School Board — District 5

“

Education is my passion,” says Joyce Hayes-Giles. “If it weren’t for my educational background, I wouldn’t be where I am right now.” This is precisely why Hayes-Giles is running for the District 5 seat in the school board election (District 5 in Northwest Detroit from the Lodge and Davison Freeways to Eight Mile Road, and from Greenfield Road to I-75). Hayes-Giles credits her humble beginning and the persistence of her parents in getting a quality education as her reason for being successful — she is senior vice president of customer service for DTE Energy.

Hayes-Giles is a graduate of Knoxville College with a bachelor’s. degree in psychology; the University of Detroit with a master’s degree in industrial relations and personnel management; and has a juris doctor degree from Wayne State’s law school. As a board member, HayesGiles says she will focus on student achievement and self motivation in efforts to reduce high dropout rates. “Improving a child’s self perception will improve their performance with personal achievements,” says Hayes-Giles. As far as budgetary measures are concerned, Hayes-Giles feels as though we need a financially solvent school board which will use money wisely. Old vacated school buildings should be demolished, the revenues per student should be improved, and

she would like to partner with organizations such as the Skillman Foundation and local businesses in contributing to the school board. The Hayes-Giles plan of action includes: ◗ Maintaining fiscal accountability through budget monitoring ◗ Setting high expectation with no exceptions for students teachers and administrators ◗ Putting students first ◗ Fostering a safe and adequate environment that supports learning and achievement Hayes-Giles believes that the school board needs people who have the skills required to manage the issues at hand, and not just name recognition. Remember Joyce Hayes-Giles when voting November 8. t

Carla Scott, Candidate for School Board — District 1

istrict 1 school board candidate Carla D. Scott, M.D., is recently engaged and the excited new mother of a six-month-old son, whom she adopted from Ethiopia.. Dr. Scott’s candidacy is stimulated, she says, by her passionate and determined commitment to children, her community, and the city of Detroit. When asked what motivated her to run for school board office, Dr. Scott replied, “My sister Melissa encouraged me to run for office and the questions from my adoption interview sparked my conscience, which stimulated me to be more selfless and invest in DPS.” Scott says that one of her goals is “win back the faith of the community for the Detroit Public Schools”. She wants

our readers to know that her integrity and promise of her best judgment in wanting what is best for children, the DPS, and the city of Detroit are paramount in her list of responsibilities as a board member. Dr. Scott is a product of what she hopes to be elected to represent as a member of the Detroit School Board. She’s a graduate of Renaissance High in its first graduating class, 1981. After attending the Ivy League Wellesley Women’s College for her undergraduate studies, she joined the Peace Corps for a 2-½ year stint in Guatemala. She then returned to Detroit and graduated from Wayne State University’s School of Medicine, special-

izing in primary care. After completing her residency in Texas at Baylor College of Medicine, Scott stayed in Texas and taught pediatrics. While teaching at Bentaub Hospital, she started Our Books Our Kids to help the kids who came to the emergency room of the community hospital where she worked. The program has since expanded to other Texas community hospitals and is growing. Dr. Scott’s visions for running for a seat on the DPS board include: ◗ Select a superintendent who is a visionary, thick skinned, and has a plan of action Continued on page 13

Support a Life-Long District 1 Resident

Dr. Carla Scott

District 1 — Detroit School Board Candidate ◗ ◗ ◗ ◗

Graduate of Renaissance High School Attended Chrysler Elementary School Member of Plymouth United Church of Christ Lifelong Resident of Boston/Edison Historical District

◗ Graduate of Wayne State University Medical School ◗ Golden Life Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. ◗ Member of Tots-N-Teens

“Principles for Success” ◗ We will stand for the belief that all children in Detroit, regardless of where they live, go to school, go to church, or how much money their parents have, should have the right to receive a quality education. ◗ We believe parents need different options for educating their children, because all children are different, needing whatever option works best for each of them. ◗ We will encourage, enable and support the creation of schools where all key decisions will be made by the people at that school including teachers, administration, support staff, parents and even students themselves. ◗ We will enable DPS Central Office to continue to support schools, while assertively monitoring performance to ensure that students are learning, financial books are balanced, and maximum resources are driven to the school level.

VOTE FOR “A NEW DAY IN DETROIT” TEAM ON November 8

To those who really care about Detroit:

he need for serious citizens to pay attention to the Detroit School Board election, on November 8, 2005, has never been greater. This position is unpaid, so the campaign for School Board really does depend upon volunteers putting out the word and getting out the vote. Dr. Carla Scott, first district candidate, is running on The New Day in Detroit slate with Reverend John Williams, an at large candidate. The combining of candidates was accomplished based on conservation of campaign finances, community support and common strategies for grappling with the enormous problems confronting the school district. Dr. Carla Scott is a Detroiter. She is a veteran Medical Doctor serving the Wayne County Youth Home. She spends every day with children from the school system. She attended Detroit Public Schools and graduated from Wayne

Carla Scott—Continued from page 12

◗ Support the person selected and their plan ◗ Hold the superintendent accountable, help keep her or him focused, and keep in mind what the larger goal is ◗ Correct the mistakes of the board’s micro-management ◗ Allow the classroom structure to be handled by the professionals and hold them accountable to the administrators Email Dr. Carla Scott at: drcarlad@ hotmail.com. Please include your telephone number in your message so she may call you. t

State University School of Medicine Dr. Scott is not the least bit bashful about voicing her common sense solutions for improving education, and then working hard to achieve her goals. Her wellhoned skills include a keen knowledge of applying business principles and fiscal responsibility to public service. She is an active participant in The Boston-Edison Residential Historic District, Golden life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Member of Tots-N-Teens, serving her community in many roles. Dr. Scott is the daughter and granddaughter of Detroit teachers. She is a former Peace Corps Volunteer. Dr. Scott was able to advance through the primary election only four points behind the incumbent. She is a sound-minded community activist who is concerned about her community and stands up for what is right and honest. She will put what is best for Detroit’s children first!

This New Day in Detroit candidate for School Board District One, Dr. Carla Scott, needs your help and your vote. The campaign is on. Time is short. Dr. Scott’s family, church, work, campaign and civic volunteer schedule keep her in perpetual motion. Find a time and place to listen to her. She is not making promises of miracle cures. Rather, she offers real effective methodical steps to rebuild the excellence of Detroit Schools. She offers her demonstrated intellect, integrity and sound judgment to work through Detroit’s serious problems. She offers a New Day in Detroit, where we know that our children have the opportunity for the quality education they need. If you like what you hear, and you see her formidable substance, get to work. Help Dr. Carla Scott bring a New Day in Detroit. Your Neighbor and fellow Detroiter Richard Rubens

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Candidates for School Board

Annie Carter — District 3

nnie. Carter is a familiar face in the District 3 school board community. District 3 is located between Tireman/ Warren to Ford/Livernois/ Schoolcraft/Lyndon and runs to the Redford and Dearborn boarders. You could find her as a volunteer in the Ann Arbor Trail elementary hallways as a hall monitor in the early ‘80s or the school office in 2000 at Cody High School keeping track of attendance. “I just have a passion for children and parental rights. I know how to get the right things done, because I know the law. I am the voice for the children,” says Carter. Annie Carter has 26-plus years of involvement with the DPS, from president of the Local School Community Organization

(LSCO) and president of her PTA. She worked at the Area B office and Cody as an office assistant and is also the parent of four DPS graduates. She also served on the short-lived 1998 newly elected school board which was dismantled soon after. Carter was also instrumental in the Title 1 budgetary policy for parental involvement from a federal level. As a member of the District 3, school board Carter intends to develop a conflict-resolution team and a peer-mediation group to be administered in all DPS high schools. In efforts to increase more parental involvement, Carter would like to implement a “PC” or Parent Center, a

room in each school for parents who are volunteering to come in and relax while on break, similar to a teachers’ lounge. Annie Carter is committed to: ◗ Equalized funding ◗ Enrollment policies ◗ Improving academic achievement ◗ Balancing the budget ◗ Finding the best CEO for our District Annie Carter has been rated “highly qualified” by The Detroit Federation of Teachers (DFT). For more information on Annie Carter’s initiatives contact her at (313) 933-0598. Remember to vote for her in District 3. t

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

Lorena Searcy — District 7

“

Children are special gifts, jewels, but it’s not until we open the prize that we are able to treasure what lies inside” says Lorena Searcy, Detroit School Board candidate for District 7, located on Detroit’s east side bounded by Houston-Whittier, East Grand Boulevard and. Jefferson to Grosse Pointe. Searcy, a single parent, is proud of having successfully raised three daughters, honors graduates of the DPS who are now grown, while she held two jobs — even working midnights. While unlike some other candidates she doesn’t hold degrees or have many years of experience within the DPS, she says she has proven that she has the enthusiasm needed to qualify for a seat on the Board of Education. As a youth worker-educational coordinator at the Davenport Shelter for Girls, Searcy makes many trips to various schools

and works closely with the principals in the enrollment process. She has also worked with many suburban school districts which contributed to her wanting to run for the Detroit board. “I saw the differences in the curriculums, their testing process and the accreditations within these other districts and felt that they needed to be incorporated into ours, “says Searcy. Many of the girls who reside at Davenport are 11 to18 and have been victims of abuse, are runaways or truant from school. So patience is needed in working with these young ladies, she adds. Searcy is also a certified violence-prevention counselor, and impulse-control and anger-management teacher, and plans to introduce both programs into the

DPS should she be elected. Searcy believes that parental participation is vital in the child’s educational process. However, she has found that many parents are illiterate. With that in mind, she has would like to develop programs to empower the parents with education and career development within school system. Lorena Searcy would like to focus on the following areas: ◗ A safe, cleaner environment for learning ◗ Equal education for all children ◗ After-school economic enrichment programs and community jobs ◗ Decreasing dropout and truancy rates Continued on page 17

Ellen Toni Childs — at Large able for their children’s education,” says Childs. As a result, many teachers have taken on the role of babysitters as opposed to educators. In efforts to improve students’ academic achievement, Childs says, “Evidence shows that parent involvement improves student achievement. It must be established early in a child’s educational experience the role and expectations of both the parent as well as the teacher.” Ellen Toni Childs is for the following initiatives: ◗ Reinforcement of the Student Code of Conduct ◗ Positive interactions between teachers and the school board ◗ Promoting academic excellence ◗ Accountability with accounting and budgeting To find out more about Ellen Toni Childs and her efforts to “put children first,” contact her at (313) 259-2021. t

Keith Jones — at Large School on Detroit’s east side. He participated in the Schools of the 21st Century project, assisting with grant writing and preparing school budgets for principals. He later attended Michigan State, graduating with a bachelor’s of science degree in merchandising and business administration. Within our years of graduating from DPS he noticed a considerable change in the demeanor of the students, as well as the overall school system. It was in 1999 that Governor Engler took over the school system and that was the beginning of the end as far as he is concerned.

According to Jones, “Education is the key to empowerment within the community to make life better.” This statement not only holds true for the children but, most important, for the parents. This includes from the top with the administration, down to the teacher. He believes everyone should be accountable in a child’s educational productivity which also includes the community. Businesses that are located within the various school districts should contribute either monetarily or volunteer to assist with school activities, such as cleaning up the school grounds. Jones says that local businesses, Continued on page 17

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hould Keith Jones be elected to the Detroit Public School Board, it will make history. At 24, not only will Jones be the youngest school board member in Detroit, but quite possibly in the United States. All he wants to do is get back to the basics of education by focusing on reading, writing and arithmetic. Don’t let his young age fool you — he has a serious plan that is, he says, so simple it’s brilliant. Jones is a Martin Luther King High graduate, Class of 1999. While attending King, Jones often volunteered and worked at Butzel Community Center and

increases district funding will increase which is based on student enrollment.” She feels that it is necessary to reorganize the districts and create what she calls her “Deficit Elimination Plan.” What this plan involves, she says, is, “working to increase enrollment by developing an effective marketing plan and enhancing our offerings to include an innovative technology-centered curriculum, which will certainly make a difference in bringing the students back to DPS.” As a school board member- at-large, Childs proposes making first the administration and staff, then the parents and student accountable for the total educational process. She is a proponent of encouraging and implementing a strong alliance between teachers and parents. “Parents are just as account-

“

Childs is for Children,” is her slogan. And Ellen Toni Childs says she’s earned it. She has spent the vast majority of her career in education, with 35 years in teaching as well as in administration. As the former department head and athletic director in Phys Ed at Osborn High, she has managed many budgets for the DPS. A native Detroiter, she graduated from St. Catherine’s High School and went to Central State University in Ohio. In addition to her bachelor’s degree, she holds a master’s in education. Childs believes the failures are a result of lack of accountability from upper management, which has caused the huge budget crisis. According to Childs, this was a result of the “downsizing in all relevant areas. Once enrollment

Candidates for School Board

Reverend David Murray — at Large

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

ev. David Murray has a story to tell about education, specifically the Detroit Board of Education. His tale began at the age of 5 when he started kindergarten. Once he was enrolled, his teachers noticed that he was unable to keep up with the other children, so the school would send him home. Finally, after being discouraged with the administration and curricula, his mother decided to home-school David, teaching her version of reading and writing. “Every day my mother would have me copy a biblical verse, write it down and recite it,” says Murray. She was very thorough about his penmanship and legibility, and his enunciation and articulation. She kept him at home until fourth grade, when there appeared to be.a mainstream special-educational system that met his needs. However, Murray continued to be teased and beat-upon throughout the next 18 years at the DPS. Eighteen years is correct. David Murray did not graduate from high school until the age of 21 …

Determined to be beat the odds, he enrolled in a special program, Project 350, at Wayne State University designed to prepare students with lower grade a for college courses. One of Murray’s professors noticed that he appeared to have difficulty when reading and copying lectures from the board. He was referred to the Michigan Commission for the Blind and finally diagnosed as visually impaired and legally blind. From those experiences he vowed to be an advocate for the children and their education. To describe Murray as person of dedication and determination is an understatement. He has overcome the odds by attaining two bachelor’s degrees in social sciences and criminal justice; three master’s degrees in social sciences, criminal justice and education; and an honorary doctorate of divinity. He has been a foster parent to more than 50 children, adopting six, three of

whom came from abusive homes. He also has one stepchild and a birth child on the way. Rev. Murray is pastor of First Holy Temple, C.O.J.I.C., and has worked as a social worker with various state and local organizations. Murray served on the DPS School Board in 1998 until its demise in 1999. Rev. Murray’s visions include: ◗ Greater parental participation ◗ Increasing enrollment ◗ Enhancing technological education ◗ Encouraging African centered education For more information about Rev. David Murray, contact him at (313) 399-1778 or (313) 4307563. “For a quality educationnever worry, vote for Reverend Murray.” t

John Chalmers Williams — at-Large

ohn Chalmers Williams is the male half of the duo called “A New Day in Detroit.” Williams hails from North Carolina. He spent his youth in Cuba and China. He came to Detroit in 1969, when he attended the University of Michigan’s extension program. In 1970 he enrolled at Michigan State University where he became the first African American to earn a degree in Chinese studies. Williams became a black dorm aide while at MSU and used that position to address the is-

sues of black MSU students. This was his first role as an advocate for others. In 1976 Williams graduated from Indiana University School of Law-Indianapolis, where he concentrated on criminal justice reform. After graduation he returned to North Carolina, where he helped develop and facilitate an active community youth and criminal prevention program called “One-Stop Youthful Offenders Multi-Services Center.”

Since his return to Detroit in 1984, Williams worked for 13 years as a Detroit Public Schools (DPS) K–12 substitute teacher as well as a community resources person, conduction peer-motivation groups in Detroit public middle and high schools. Williams wants to serve on the school board to “address the values and the culture of the current system — this is anti-learning. Love compels me to run for the Continued on page 17

John Chalmers Williams — Continued from page 16

well as give current residents the ability to commute out. Reeves’ Council initiatives include: ◗ Increased police protection for communities ◗ Increased tourism ◗ More businesses back to downtown Detroit ◗ A voice for the children in public schools ◗ Affordable housing for seniors Martha Reeves has been the one of many voices of Detroit through the Motown sound. Now as a future councilwoman, she insists that you will have her ear because, if you “Call Martha, she WILL listen!” To contact Martha Reeves for Detroit City Council call 313-2595550. t

particularly gas stations, party stores, cleaners, restaurants, etc., benefit from the patronage of the community, and this should be a reasonable contribution. Because of his age, Jones believes he can be an asset to the school board simply because he is close in age to high school students, where most of the school fallout occurs. He can identify and relate to the issues the students face and can be the voice to relay that information to the board. Other objectives in the Jones campaign are: ◗ Creating a structured school system which includes uniforms for all students ◗ Signed job descriptions by teachers, students, custodians, administrators ◗ Mandatory orientations for students and parents, with contracts ◗ $20.00 non-refundable book deposit per student To learn more about Keith Jones’ back to the basics initiatives for the school board at large position, visit his blog site at http://keithjjones.myblogsite. com or e-mail him at keithjjones@gmail. com. t

DPS school board when I see our children being failed by an adult system that we corporately have created and allowed to exist, and the deep thing is that we make it mandatory for these children to attend this failing system. Our children are in crisis, but with the help of God and committed people we can turn the situation around. We must have courage, resolve, commitment, and our children will one day bless us rather than curse us for what we’ve done for them.” John Williams’ objectives include: ◗ Creating safe schools for all of our children regardless of what school they attend in the DPS system ◗ Attaining equality while allowing for local schools and stakeholders to have the power to make key decisions about how their school should operate ◗ Curricula that will be relevant to our children and our community, and will address the interest or overcome lack of interest ◗ Address the values and the culture of the current system, which is antilearning E-mail John Williams at JCWforDSB@yahoo.com. t

Janice Winfrey — Continued from page

ordinating with school principals and college and university administrators to ensure that high-school graduates and students registering for college simultaneously receive their voter registration card. To learn more about the objectives of Janice Winfrey, visit her Web site at www.janicewinfrey4cityclerk.com. t

If your ideal customer is… • Between 28 and 54 years old • College educated • Family oriented • Community minded • Socially aware

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Lorena Searcy — Continued from page 14

◗ Available college grants for all high school graduates If you live in District 7, remember to vote for Lorena Searcy for the School Board. t

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

Keith Jones — Continued from page 15

Martha Reeves — Continued from page

Paparazzi photos by Monica Morgan, Michael Ragland and Jon Stewart More Paparazzi on Pages 38– 40

P A P A R A 2 1

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American Idol’s Fantasia and the WMXD Staff Bill Cosby and Tuskegee Airmen Kimberly Allen Bradfield, Rev. Joey Simmons (a.k.a. Run of Run-DMC) and Coire Nichols Houston Eric Benet at Club Elysium Pamela Hines, Brieon Houston and Smokey Robinson Dwele at Club Icon Norman Folson and Bill Cosby Common at Hip Hop Summit 2005 Brieon and Herman welcome brother Bradford Houston Rachel Orange and Les Brown

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Access Hollywood’s Shawn Robinson and Mason at Freedom Weekend 2005 Bill Cosby and State Rep. Martha Scott John Singelton, Hustle & Flow (from left to right) U.S. Congressman John Conyers, Jr.; Bal Co-Chair Dr. Robert E.L. Perkins; Corporate CoChair Sandra E. Ulsh of the Ford Motor Company Fund; Corporate Co-Chair Roderick D. Gillum of General Motors; mistress of ceremonies Rhonda Walker of WDIVTV 4; Honorary Chair Linda Johnson Rice of Johnson Publishing; Bal Chair Vivian Pickard of General Motors; and Bal Co-Chair Sharon Madison Polk congratulate former Motown executive, award-winning producer, and media entrepreneur Suzanne de Passe (4th from the left) for her contributions to the arts. Jamillah Muhammad, Fantasia and Pamela Hines Mel Farr, Linda Johnson Rice, Suzanne de Passe and Robert Harris

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Mary Jo Sanders — “Detroit’s Own MillionDollar Baby” By Coire Nichols Houston

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s she glides through the doorway, she has the grace of a fashion model working the runway. She’s petite yet buffed and very much a lady, but once she puts on her gloves you had better watch out, because she’s going for blood.

events and won three consecutive championship bouts in Detroit in 1998, 1999 and 2000.

The fighter gets a trainer In 2002, she was introduced by a mutual friend to Jimmy Mallo of Kow Boxing. A professional boxer himself, Mallo was rather apprehensive about bringing Sanders on board at first sight. “Our friend called me up,” says Mallo. “He says, ‘Are you interested in training somebody?’ I said ‘No, I have my hands full right now.” So he asked if I would do it as a favor to him and bring her by. I said ‘Her?’ Oh, I’m 100 percent not

“Introducing Mary Jo Sanders — Detroit’s Own Million-Dollar Baby”

ary Jo, 31, is one of eight siblings, and the daughter of Charlie Sanders, NFL Hall of Famer and a Detroit Lion from 1968 to 1977. Although she’s the third-oldest, she insists that her decision to enter into boxing was not as a result of having to fight off her older siblings, but rather a love for the sport. “I just love it, I love it. God help me, it’s just something in me that I can’t really explain. Once I started boxing and learning, because there is so much to learn. It’s just so exciting!”

It’s belt time When we talked Sanders was preparing for Belt No. 2 for the IBA Welterweight Championship. She currently has 17 wins, five KO’s, is the IBA Continental Junior Welterweight Champion, IBA Welterweight Champion and the WBC World Champion. She has an impressive resume, considering her career as a professional boxer began only three years ago. Sanders’ interest in boxing was piqued when she won the title of Miss Natural Michigan in the heavyweight division of a bodybuilding championship in 1998. Yearning for something more stringent, she started competing in tougher women’s

interested.” Persistent about her toughness, Sanders wasn’t willing to talk to Mallo but rather in sparring with him in the ring three rounds. The next day, Mallo said, he was sitting with three of the guys from the gym at lunch and rolled up his sleeves to eat his sandwich when one of the guys looked at his arms and asked, “ Man what happened to you?” “I looked down at my arms and saw that I was black and blue from blocking Mary Jo’s hits. I said, ‘Wow!’ So I gave her a call and asked her when she wanted to come back.” And as it goes, the rest is history.

Mallo continues. “What you see is what you get, and she shows it in the ring. It’s not bragging because she can back it up. I have never heard her trash-talk anyone, although she has whispered some things to me in the locker room,” he says. What Sanders has shown is that she is undefeated. With five knockouts under her belt, we wanted to know how she feels as a woman when she knocks out her opponents Sanders laughs and says, “The rush is very, very short-lived, because you’re in the moment. It’s so hard because one of the downfalls as a woman is that we are nurturers, by nature. So in the beginning Jimmy would really get on my case. Like you are in this to win it.” Mallo interjects, “I told her you don’t understand, Mary Jo; this woman is trying to do you bodily harm. If you don’t get her out of the ring she’s going to get you out first! It’s funny, though, because after all of her knockout fights we have people coming up complaining about making the fight last a little longer, saying “I want my money back!” They both laugh as Mallo adds, “I feel really bad as a manager because she feels so bad. Mary wants to start a fund for the opponent for a psychologist for them because she knocked them out!” A few weeks before our interview Sanders fought at the Palace, which she won by a technical knockout. A story on the Women’s Boxing Archive Network internet site reported, “In Auburn Hills, Michigan, Mary Jo Sanders won by a TKO over Lois Theobald of Crystal Lake, Illinois, at 1:52 in the first round of a scheduled eight-rounder. Referee Dale Grable halted the fight as Sanders connected with brutal shots to the head of Theobald. Theobald, who had substituted for Liz Drew at short notice, fell to 1-3-1 (1 KO).” I asked Sanders if she had knocked out any guys. Laughing, she responded, “No I have given them some

Mallo adds, “The whole gym gets really quiet.”

Home-grown talent Mary Jo is a native Detroiter of sorts — she grew up in Southfield. She attended Sacred Heart Catholic School and Country Day, graduating from Rochester Adams High School. While Dad was a tight end for the Lions she also attributes some of her athleticism to her mom who was a marathon runner. In addition to playing basketball she also ran track, took ballet and competed in gymnastics. After graduating in 1992, Sanders attended Oakland University and Baker College.

What’s next? So what’s next for Mary Jo? Of course she has eye on that other top-named fighter whose name rhymes with “bee” … but rumor has it that she may retiring soon. Should that happen, I’m certain that will not stop our hometown champ from keeping her eye on the prize. You can best believe that we’ll be hearing much more about Our Million-Dollar Baby. t Spend your advertising dollars wisely

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I asked Mary Jo how she prepares for a fight outside of physical training. Sanders replied “It’s a week’s process. Three or four days out I clean like crazy (almost like a nesting). I have a lot of energy built up. It comes in waves, like sometimes I get the butterflies, but I try not to get too excited. Then I begin to pray a lot. Oh, how I pray. I just kind of metamorphose myself. I turn off the TV walk around in quietness with a lot of retreat; this gives me the ability to concentrate. I do a lot of visualization and picture myself coming out with my hands up in victory.”

really good body shots, a few black eyes and a few bloody noses and even then you feel bad. These guys come out swinging and either it’s me or them. I then have to become the aggressor and when I hit them and hurt them, I say you have to treat me like a 140 pound fighter.”

Fight preparations

You Don’t Want to Be a Millionaire! By Brenda Lewis

f I ask you what you want out of life, your first answer will probably have something to do with money—lots of money. You want to win big at the casino. You want to hit the lottery when the jackpot is at $200,000,000. You want big money! Right?

Wrong!

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

Think about it. If your ultimate goal in life is to be rich, what are you going to do when you achieve that goal? Remember—a goal is the final destination of a journey. When you reach your goal, you’re at the end of your journey. Example: Right now you’re in an ongoing dispute with your next-door neighbor. You dislike her with a passion. She makes your home life miserable. You win a lottery jackpot of $132,000,000. Remember—that was your goal. You’ve reached the end of your journey. Only there’s still a problem. You’re surrounded with stacks of green paper but you still have the same neighbor. Example: Right now you’re struggling to keep food on the table for you and your family. Many nights dinner is peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Your goal is money. You think that will fix everything. A distant relative dies and leaves you a bundle. Since you’ve reached the end of your journey—your goal to be rich—everything should miraculously

be perfect. But wait. Your goal was just to have money, so unless you and your family can acquire a taste for raw green paper, you’re still going to be eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Do you see where I’m going with this? You thought your goal was to be rich. If you had enough money, all of your life’s problems would disappear. That’s not the way life works. If you can’t stand your next-door neighbor, your goal isn’t to be rich. Your goal is to move. Sure, you may need a lot of money to move to the perfect house in the neighborhood of your dreams and furnish it with the best of everything. So, yes, you need money. But you don’t plan to get the money and sit around looking at it.

You plan to spend it. And what you want to buy with that money is your real goal. If you’re hungry, your goal isn’t money—your goal is food. If your car stops running, your goal isn’t money—your goal is a new car. If your roof is leaking, your goal isn’t money—your goal is a new roof. So before you start mapping out your life’s journey, make sure you know where

you’re trying to go. Uncover what you really want out of life and how to get it.

Don’t put it off—get started today! t Brenda Lewis is Fuzion’s design director. She believes the path to happiness is to follow your passion. Let her show you how to get what you really want out of life at www.missionachieving.com.

“

Dream it! See it! Do it! Be it!™” If your ideal customer is… • Between 28 and 54 years old • College educated • Family oriented • Community minded • Socially aware

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The BlackSphere — Your Detroit Connection for Arts and Culture Chantay “Legacy” Leonard

October–November 2005

ndian Summer is losing its lingering hold on the city of Detroit, ushering in the days of brisk winds, swirls of colorful leaves and cool nights. It’s time to put the sandals and shorts away and step out in style in boots and winter-ready wraps. Don’t fret, though, because Detroit is still sizzling with plenty of events to keep your season sensational.

Festivals, Parties, Book Signings and Releases

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

Holly Robinson Peete Discussion and Book Signing, “Get Your Own Damn Beer, I’m Watching the Game!” 11/21/2005 Borders 34300 Woodward Ave. Birmingham, MI Metro Times 25th Anniversary Bash 11/21/2005, 9pm Fifth Ave Downtown 2100 Woodward Ave Detroit, MI Tickets: $15 Adv/ $20 Door. Tickets available from metrotimes. com/25th The Networking Professionals and Kappa Alpha Psi presents “The BASS PLAYERS BALL” 11/29/2005, 8 p.m. Music Hall 350 Madison Detroit, MI PERFORMING LIVE: Michael Henderson, Ray Parker Jr. George Johnson, Sir Nose, Marion Meadows, Jean Carne, Rena Scott, Cherrelle, Adina Howard, The Calloway Brothers, Bamm Davis Tickets available @ Ticketmaster. com or 248-645-6666

Socials, Fundraisers, Conferences, Award Shows, etc.

The 2nd Annual Essence of Motown Writers Conference 11/12-11/13/2005 Detroit Public Library – Saturday, 10am–5pm St. Regis Hotel Detroit, MI Brunch with Special Guest Speaker: Vicki Stringer, Detroit Author and Owner of Triple Crown Publications. Saturday event $35 (Sun) or $70 both days; After Oct 31, add $15. To register contact Sylvia Hubbard at 313289-8614 or essenceofmotown@ yahoo.com.

In Concert and Theater Busta Rhymes with Miri Ben-Ari 11/24/2005 Royal Oak Theatre 318 W. 4th Street Royal Oak , MI Tickets: tickets.com High-energy hip-hop star Busta Rhymes and hip-hop violinist Miri Ben-Ari will be in concert at the Royal Oak Theater. State Farm presents “The 2005 Detroit Gospel Showcase and Concert” 11/05/2005 Greater Emmanuel Institutional Church Detroit, MI Come out and witness as Detroit’s premiere gospel choirs lift their inspirational voices at this citywide gospel competition. Digable Planets 11/05/2005

Blind Pig 208 S First St. Ann Arbor, MI Old hip hop triad Digable Planets of “Cool Like That” fame will be in concert at the Blind Pig. NADIR’s Distorted Soul - LIVE RECORDING 11/10/2005, 9pm Memphis Smoke - Smokin’ Blues and BarBQ 100 South Main Royal Oak, MI Detroit’s own soulful Nadir will be presenting a live recording at Memphis Smoke! Savion Glover

11/19/2005 and 11/20/2005, 8pm

Detroit Opera House Detroit, MI Tap-dance wonder Savion Glover will be tearing up the stage this coming November. John Legend 11/23/2005 ,7:30pm Michigan Theatre Ann Arbor, MI Cost: $39.50 Compelling soul singer John Legend will be presenting his old school –hip-hop singing styles at the Michigan Theater. Prepare for a sensational show!

Rhythms of the People Present to 11/30/2005, hours vary Wayne County Community College 1001 Fort St. Detroit, MI Paintings and drawings by Saffell Gardner and Sabrina Nelson. Tyree Guyton: An American Show 10/15/2005 - UNTIL The Charles H. Wright African American History Museum 315 E. Warren Detroit, MI Artist, Tyree Guyton, of the Heidelberg Project fame has interesting and compelling statements of art on display. Look Ahead 10/07/2005 - UNTIL The Redd Apple Gallery 227 Iron St., #116 Detroit, MI Featuring the colorful paintings and thought provoking works of French artist, Patrick Dodd.

Poetry Wednesdays The Flow @ Trenchtown 3919 Woodward Detroit, MI Time: 8pm Admission: $5 Trenchtown, famous for its after-hour reggae is now serving up poetry on Wednesday nights with local poet Q. Black as your host.

If your ideal customer is…

Pitch Black Poetry 65 Farrand Park Highland Park, MI Time: 7pm Admission: Drop a donation. The center of the Universe every Wednesday with Owusu (Millard) and Ivy Porter as your hosts at the Pitch Black Cultural Arts Institute.

Thursdays Mahogany Nights @ Magnolia Restaurant and Key Club (formerly East Franklin Restaurant) 1440 East Franklin Detroit, MI Time: 8pm - Midnight Admission: $5.00 Come mingle with the beautiful people over cigars and a glass of wine while enjoying the featured jazz band and a variety of poets.

Fridays The Meetery Eatery 5408 Woodward (In the Park Shelton Apt Bldg) Detroit, MI Time: 8pm Admission: $5 The Meetery Eatery is a warm and brilliantly decorative spot featuring an Internet café and menu offerings from rib snacks to the mouth-watering corned-beef sandwiches on Avalon bread and their delicious Wildberry smoothies. Hosted by the vivacious Loc Mama—Kalimah Johnson and

charming Johnny Jenkins, this poetry set is guaranteed to please ALL types of people.

Saturdays The Cream Café 25849 Lahser Rd. Southfield, MI Time: 7pm Admission: $5.00 Spend a Saturday evening of spoken word at this cozy little off-the-path café with Epiphany as your host.

Sundays Poetry @ The Redd Apple Gallery 227 Iron St, #116 Detroit, MI Time: 9pm Admission: $5 Redd Apple Gallery’s poetry set is back in effect with Mike T. as your host and spins by DJ Incredible. Come check out this cozy and artsy gallery for an evening of spoken word and good vibes! As the last of the summer warmth flows into the magical rhythm of fall, take the time for a steaming cup of tea or coffee at a local café, stroll through the exhibits of an art gallery, and enjoy the beauty and culture all around you. Until next time, Peace, Legacy Leonard Chantay “Legacy” Leonard, 24, is a Detroit based writer, performance poet, community activist and originator of the e-newsletter “The BlackSphere.” Please feel free to contact her at legacy@ Fuzion-Mag.com. To include your event in “The Black Sphere,” please email details to Legacy or to info@Fuzion-Mag.com.

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Between 28 and 54 years old College educated • Family oriented Community minded • Socially aware

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Exhibits

Poetry @ Club Status Quo 2281 W. Fort (near old Tiger Stadium) Detroit, MI Time: 9pm Admission: $5 The new incognito spot for those seeking the crème de la crème of poetry and poet society.

O’Jays/Dells/Dramatics 11/23/2005, 7:30pm Fox Theatre Detroit, MI Incomparable soul legends The O’Jays, Dells, and Dramatics will be in full force at the Fox Theater.

Community Chronicles Edward Foxworth, III

Ring the Alarm: Violence and Change in our Life and Times

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

id someone ring a bell or something? The violence in Iraq is one thing, but on the streets of Detroit? Young people are supposed to outlive their elders, not the other way around. It’s been said over and over, “Those who don’t know their history are destined to repeat it.” Where are the communitybased organizations like SOSAD (Save Our Sons And Daughters), who would publish youth crime statistics, and hold rallies and marches against such violence?

It has got to be the most devastating blow to a community when senseless crime rules. Particularly when it is due to high unemployment, the breakdown of the family structure, double-digit rates of functionally illiterate adults, poor diet, exercise and health practices coupled with the availability of alcohol on almost every other corner. Not to mention drugs and prostitution taking place in neighborhood parks, forcing kids to play in and around abandoned and severely burned out homes, and the closing of schools, cultural landmarks and local recreation centers. Recording artist Marvin Gaye asked a long time ago, “What’s going on?” This unfortunate picture is becoming prevalent in major urban centers across America. How did we get here? The current president? The war on Iraq? The budget-cutting of social programs, including education? Absentee parents who are afraid to check their growing, smart-mouthed and misbehaving children? Is it due to a slacking religious faith in this country? What about greed on behalf of the wealthy? How do we get back on track to fixing these problems? Another Town Hall meeting? Pointing the finger, maybe, at someone who has left this earth and is no longer able to speak for him- or herself? How about highlighting how

inefficient some of us can be at managing? Yeah, that’s it — managing! Other people, our personal finances, our homes, heck, even the way that some of us drive! What I’m getting at is that most of us can figure this thing out. This thing called life, you know — where you are born, grow up, go to school, get a good job, find the love of your life, start a family and start the process all over again. Sounds boring, huh? What does this process of life mean for you and what other spices will you add to the aforementioned process? A tablespoon of deceit with a pinch of betrayal? How ’bout a slice of violence or a sliver of refusal to learn more? Or will it be a dash of kindness and a sprinkle of compassion for the downtrodden? A cupful of discipline with an ounce of entrepreneurial spirit? You choose! I would suggest that, in an economy such as the one that we are experiencing, we apply the words of Booker T. Washington, who advised, “Start where you are with what you have, knowing that what you have is plenty enough.” It would be helpful if each of us were to practice the words often spoken by renowned motivational speaker and author Les Brown, who has battled prostate cancer, when he says, “When life knocks you down, try to land on your back, because if you can look up, then you can get up!” For individuals and organizations, Stephen Covey talks about seven habits: be proactive; begin with the end in mind; put first things first; think win/win; seek first to understand, then to be understood; synergize and finally, sharpen the saw. So what is the problem? Oops, sorry about that, I digressed. What I meant to say is, with these things in mind, why are times so difficult? As a possible solution, I encourage you to get involved in an organization that is making a difference in uplifting humankind, one that puts all of the greed and inefficient jabber-jawing aside and is big on actions and results. For organiContinued on page 35

The Book Beat Roy Kyles

As Vine sheds light on events that caused the NAACP to launch nationwide support to finance the Sweets’ defense fund, she tells the parallel story of African Americans’ Great Migration to the North in the early twentieth century. Most Detroit transplants came north after hearing word of Ford Motor Company’s $5-a-day wage. However, they soon found out that urban poverty could rival the challenges they faced in their rural homes. The Detroit Urban League took on the major responsibility of lending aid to newcomers from the South by greeting them at Michigan Central Station, protecting them from street predators and pointing them in the direction of food and housing. Dr. Ossian Sweet, however, did not settle in Detroit to make cars. In 1921, with $20 in his pocket and a medical degree from Howard University, he chose Detroit because he believed the fastest-growing city in the nation needed black professionals to serve other educated, middle-class blacks. A year later, he got married, and he and his wife, Gladys, sailed to Europe, where Dr. Sweet refined his medical skills and obtained specialties in gynecology and obstetrics. After three years, they returned to the States and began searching for a place of their own. Dr. Sweet became one of Detroit’s most respected doctors and was well on his way to fulfilling his dreams. However, Detroit’s more

As the Sweets were preparing to move into their new home, reports started circulating of angry mobs committing violent acts upon black families that moved into segregated neighborhoods. Unable to back out of the sale, Dr. Sweet decided that he would not be denied the American dream. He was quoted as saying, “We’re not going to look for any trouble, but we’re going to protect ourselves if trouble arises.” Trouble arrived the day after the Sweets moved in. Dr. Sweet and 10 others who occupied the house found themselves the focus of a threatening crowd. Because of recent racial events, Detroit police were dispatched to keep the peace, but they apparently did not see rock-throwing and racial chants as a hostile environment. The crowd grew larger and louder. More rocks were thrown, eventually breaking a window. The occupants of the house armed themselves and, soon after, the sound of gunshots filled the neighborhood. When all was said and done, two white men were shot. One was wounded and the other, dead. All 11 occupants of 2905 Garland were arrested and Dr. Sweet was charged with murder. The NAACP stepped in to assist Dr. Sweet and the rest of the defendants. The organization established a delegation to search for a defense attorney who could rally constituents and gain the support of liberal whites and middle-class blacks. Their selection would add an additional twist to the already tension-filled case. They chose Clarence Darrow, a defense attorney widely known for high-profile cases and his Continued on page 37

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

hyllis Vine stumbled across the story of Ossian Sweet, M.D., while conducting research on her mother’s family. Phyllis became so intrigued by Sweet’s life story that she used it to pen one of the most educating and comprehensive stories in civil-rights history. Set in the early twentieth century, One Man’s Castle (Amistad) chronicles the events surrounding Dr. Ossian Sweet’s desegregation of an all-white east-side Detroit neighborhood, and the trials he underwent to protect his home and family.

decent houses often had restrictive deeds that promoted segregation. The Detroit Real Estate Board discouraged agents from selling to families “whose presence would be detrimental to property values in specific neighborhoods.” The Sweets proceeded with caution and eventually bought their first house. That house, at 2905 Garland Avenue, would become one of the most important addresses in Detroit civil-rights history.

One Man’s Castle (Amistad)

The Fashion Beat Jennifer James

Jeans — Classic or Trend?

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

hat question can only be answered by the garment’s wearer. Denim jeans have dated back to the 16th century, so to call them just a trend would be a bit incorrect. So it is 2005, and the current jean phenomenon should only be described as logical. Having been a wardrobe staple to most American closets for most of the last century, jeans have made themselves a place in society which they probably will never be removed from. Jeans are one of few items with which one could have the exact same pair as 200 other people, yet each pair takes on the persona of its owner, having an identity of its own, as individual as the person donning them. Jeans, staking their claim in history at this particular time in fashion, I view as a late happening. Remember the ‘80s — the ME decade? Jeans, the single garment that could set itself apart in a crowd of its identical siblings, was nearly ignored in the ‘80s as a vehicle for drawing attention to our presumed individuality. Narcissism was at its proverbial height, yet the good old faithful blue jean did not reach the prominence that it has reached today. Much coveted, and considered “the thing to wear,” the blue jean has risen to the level of iconic! Paired with anything from a T-shirt to the highest-end jacket, and a famous name designer shoe or boot, or the baddest handbag you can finance; jeans are the major component of the so called – hot look! We don’t really need a tutorial about how to shop for jeans — just a few simple rules to go by if you do not like being hauled over by the fashion police: ◗ Get a good fit. Tight can work for some — so as to not be offensive, go for snug. ◗ Fellas, tight or snug would be a definite no-no. Thanks a bunch.

◗ Let you level of maturity decide what type of embellishment works for you. ◗ If your 12-year-old daughter would wear them, you probably should not! ◗ Price. If those $750 Cavelli’s may keep your mortgage from being on time, then stop by Spectacles and go for the just under $175 Maurice Malone’s. ◗ Basic rule for low rise: three fingers below the belly-button. Go further if you dare, just make sure you have a firm enough midsection and that you don’t become part of the control group in a study on stretch marks. t Jennifer James is the head cosmetologist and fashion consultant for Julian Scott Department Store, the nation’s first African American department store. Please feel free to contact her at Jjames@Fuzion-Mag.com.

Motor City Hits the Jackpot with Annie Lee By Pamela Hines

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

long with gaming, Motor City Casino has dedicated itself to community involvement. It has sponsored a variety of events since opening in 1998; however, the casino hit big when, once again, it sponsored internationally acclaimed artist Annie Lee for two days. who is known for her. Patrons of the casino could bring and/or buy her collectable figurines and paintings, and have her sign them. Additionally, fans could sit, eat and talk with her personally. Lee began painting at the age of 10. Her works are so realistic you can just imagine yourself in the picture. By creating faceless characters, Lee wants you to focus on the movement and the position of bodies to depict action and emotion. She hopes viewers will feel joy, laughter or comfort. She has a distinct message in every piece and hopes that viewers get it. Many of the figurines are components of Sandy USA, a business headed by Robert Nocera, CEO. The two work closely together. She creates the pictures and he produces the figurines. Their newest venture is designing high-fashion dolls, doll clothing and hats. There are times when she can create a piece overnight and other times it takes a lot longer. She recalls one of her pieces took two years. She simply put it aside until she felt inspired to finish it.

One of Lee’s earlier careers was in the engineering department of a railroad. It was one cold Monday about 5:00 a.m. that was the inspiration for one of her most notable paintings, “Blue Monday.” Lee had often wondered if anybody else felt as bad as she did going out into the cold winter morning to catch the bus to work. As she told me the story I could feel that brisk early morning wind down to my bones. “Blue Monday” is be the only self-portrait in her repertoire. During our interview we were joined by Ian, an art entrepreneur who sang her praises. Lee prides herself on giving back to the community. She said that the secret to her success is her faith in God and willingness to serve others. Hence after meeting Ian, a young minority gallery owner, she decided to take him under her wing and help him in any way she could. She did many signing events with him, including shows out of town. To this day she is in contact with him and supports his business ventures. Annie Lee lives in Las Vegas and is still creating art. She owns one gallery in her native Hazel Crest, Illinois, with a second which just opened in Las Vegas in September. Some of her works have been shown on the TV Show “A Different World”, and movies “Coming to America” and “Boomerang.” Annie Lee has often been referred to as the Norman Rockwell of African American art. t

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Temple Anointing Rachel Orange

Temptation—It Looks Good, But …

o not let temptation eat at you. Turn away, run away, hide, or hide it. You all know what I’m talking about. We take it out the fridge, rip off the wrapping, go all the way to the bedroom, fly back from under the covers, back to the fridge, knowing all along that all the foil, plastic wrap, and packaging in the world couldn’t stop us!

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

We want something that tastes good, never mind that outfit we want to get into, or, more important, our good health. It is OK to have a cheat day once in while, but to cut the obsessive eating, religion, or politics, we find what works best for us at the moment, never mind the consequences. For instance, I took a friend to a Broadway play. Before arriving, we stopped at Victor Raymond’s deli. I got myself some carrot-apple juice, some “A la Roma “ fresh mozzarella, roasted tomatoes, fresh basil, house vinaigrette, and a fresh-fruit-salad- a healthy meal, and I felt great, healthy, and full with my choices. When I sat down to listen to the play, all I could hear was the sound of paper unraveling and

crackling noises sent right into my middle ear. I looked around the theater and looked back at a playgoer rummaging through her purse for more noisy treats. What a perfect example of compulsion! We have to strap ourselves with plastic containers filled with carrot sticks, raisins, nuts, fruits and unbuttered popcorn instead of sugarfilled goodies like candy bars, buttered popcorn and chips. A little bit of change is good, maybe hard, but good. And knowing all the right choices is paramount. There are enough of what I call “how to do books.” Find one for you. From there, it’s all about planning ahead. For instance, before going to work, pack an arsenal of good, healthy treats, and walk by the vending machines with ease, knowing that you are prepared with healthy, delicious choices. Or, whatever your situation, it is all about tailoring the right plan that will fit in your day-to-day schedule. Remember what grandma said, “Don’t let your eyes be bigger than your stomach!” t Rachel Orange is a certified physical fitness instructor and former Weight Watchers corporate consultant/ advisor. If you have any questions, contact her at Rorange@Fuzion-Mag.com.

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TECHnology Herman Houston

An option to let all of our computers connect to the internet at the same time is a wireless hub, which is a connection device for networks that allows several computers to connect and share information. While this is an excellent system, it also has features that unless activated, could raise serious security issues. The manufacturers of these devices have taken a bleeding-edge yet user-friendly approach to this concern. These devices have ways to set up firewalls that act as a barrier between computers and the wideopen Internet. Community Chronicles — Continued from page 26

zations, I call on you to stand for something that people will want to be part of, that will produce leaders that stand on a firm foundation of sound principles, that produce real change, that better the quality of living for area residents. In my opinion, it ought to be a mandate, and not just in private schools, that parents of schoolaged children be required to volunteer a minimum number of hours in their child’s school. Teachers have long been the most important but

Herman Houston is the network engineer at Motor City Casino. He is MCSC and Microsoft certified. He can be contacted at hhouston@fuzion-mag.com.

under-recognized, under-appreciated and underpaid professionals in this country. Whatever you do, sound the alarm that in your lifetime, you will not stand by silently and watch young, innocent people die. People, dying is REAL, not television, not the movies. If a village is what it takes, then from neighborhood to neighborhood, let’s call community meetings and confirm the direction that we will agree to pursue! When that is done, actively pursue results from elected officials and those that are sworn to protect and serve. We

shouldn’t allow the history books to record the 21st Century as a time when people of good will stood by and did nothing with their Life and Times. t Edward Foxworth III is the director of community affairs for the two Viacom Stations Group-owned television stations in Metro Detroit. Foxworth hosts the weekly public affairs show titled “Street Beat,” which airs on Saturday mornings on CBS and UPN Detroit. He can be contacted at Efoxworth@Fuzion-Mag.com.

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

here has been a new addictive and powerful drug introduced to our community — the Internet. Most of us started out using a slow but yet so satisfying dial-up connection that gives us the dilemma of not being able to receive phone calls while we were online. The technology grew and we now have the options of DSL (digital subscriber line) or a cable modem. This option allows us to connect to the internet at up to 10 times the speed, and eliminates the concerns we once experienced with our phones. When at one time we had one personal computer per household we now have an average of three.

Think of a traditional firewall - a nonflammable wall that prevents fires from spreading throughout a building. In terms of “onlining” this builds a barrier between your home or networked computer and the outside world. There are people — even companies — that scan the Internet to find unprotected connections in order to gain personal information and/or to use those connections for illegal activity. While with any escalation of technology there is an equal increase in dubious intelligence, a home or office can be protected with a correctly configured firewall. Microsoft™ has integrated a firewall into its XP operating system, D-Link™, Netgear™, Nortel™ and Cisco™ have built-in firewalls that are Microsoft friendly (work well with the Microsoft firewall). The cost can range from about $40 to more than $500. Make your decision on cost according to the level of security needed. The Internet is like the goose that laid golden eggs — the problem is that there are companies and users with hatchets. For further information or a personal evaluation, contact Herman Houston @ HHouston@fuzion-mag.com. t

Wireless Security

The Mortgage Market Antonio Stokes

Hot Products

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

former customer contacted me, ready to buy another home. He specifically asked me about the Option ARM/Pick-A-Payment program to keep his payment as low as possible in order to afford a more expensive home. After preparing the estimate of costs and payments, and explaining the pros and cons of the product, the customer was immediately cautious about proceeding with that product. The issue that got him was the idea of having negative equity in the home. Many of us who have financed a car know all too well what negative equity is when we are ready to trade in or return that leased vehicle. But who wants negative equity in the home? According to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), risky lending practices that include easy credit, adjustable-rate mortgages and interest-only mortgages put borrowers, lenders and the FDIC at greater risk when the current hot demand for houses cools (United Press, 2005). Simply put, when the market slows, you have no equity in your home, and you want to move, it could cost you. That’s why understanding these products can help you to make the right decision when you are ready to buy or refinance your home. After reviewing some additional features and comparing other products, the customer chose a program that met his financial situation and he was comfortable moving forward. If you have find yourself in this situation, here are some things to know about these “hot products” that flood our airways: Zero Down Mortgages: There are some mortgages available that let borrowers buy or refinance a home without putting any money down at closing. These products may emphasize lower credit scores, provide entry into selected housing markets or allow financial concessions by the seller. All zero-down products provide 100% financing for individuals who do not have sufficient funds for a traditional down payment.

◗ Your loan is equal to your purchase price or appraised value ◗ Reduces your total out-of-pocket expenses to closing costs, prepaid expenses and interest ◗ Usually requires private mortgage insurance (PMI) or a combination first and second mortgages in lieu of PMI or is a non-conforming-higher interest rate program to avoid PMI ◗ Rates are higher than market to account for the high loan-to-value ratio (zero down) ◗ It is preferred by the lenders that borrowers have at least 3 percent of the purchase price or appraised value available to close the transaction Interest Only Payments: This is a feature of a mortgage and not a product, which lets the borrower make only the interest portion of the payment for a specific period of time, usually a maximum of 10 years. ◗ Designed to reduce the amount of your payments in the beginning of the repayment period ◗ Allows borrowers to qualify for more home than traditional repayment terms ◗ At the end of the specified repayment period, the balance becomes amortized over the remaining years left at the same interest rate. For example, if you have a 30-year interestonly period of 10 years and you make every scheduled interest-only payment for the first 10 years, your balance is now due in 20 years at the same interest rate. ◗ Can result in a higher interest rate in the later years ◗ Loan balance remains constant unless you pay additional principal ◗ Recommended to have a long-term outlook before using to determine which repayment period to use. Option ARM or Pick-A-Payment Program: Borrowers can choose one of four payment options on their loan. These options offer lower initial interest rates than fixed-rate mortgages and Continued on page 37

The Bistro

/Michael Micahnik I delighted in the grilled salmon, which was cooked to perfection, acanaher’s, at 2972 Coolidge companied by garlic potatoes and a Highway in Berkley, is a California mix of vegetables (brocunique restaurant with an coli, cauliflower, carrots and zucchielegant dining room that’s cozy and ni). I also enjoyed blackened beef romantic. tips with Danaher’s signature garlic mayonnaise on the side, crabOwner Darin Danaher has more stuffed portabellas, and grilledthan 10 years of restaurant experichicken pasta — all to die for. Even ence. Open since August, 2003, as a salad lover, I was pleasantly his restaurant has proven to be surprised by the mixed greens with most promising. Danaher’s features feta cheese, accented with a house American cuisine at reasonable dressing which is the owner’s secret prices, with most dishes ranging family recipe. It set off the taste of from $10 to $14. the salad to the point that I immediately asked to buy a bottle. UnforThe Book Beat — Continued from page tunately, it is not for sale — for now, Danaher’s Restaurant

anyway. I highly suggest going in and trying that salad yourself. Danaher’s kitchen is open from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and weekends from 4:00 until 11:00 p.m. There’s also a well-stocked bar which serves seven days a week until 2:00 a.m. Wednesday is ladies’ night, which features live entertainment and half-off drink specials, with latenight menus available. t

Roy Kyles is a native Detroiter and freelance book reviewer. His reviews have appeared both locally and nationally. Kyles is currently writing his first novel. To have your book reviewed, feel free to email him at Rkyles@fuzion-mag.com.

low minimum payments that adjust annually ◗ Option One — Minimum payment. The smallest payment to allow you to keep the most cash on hand. ◗ Option Two — Full interest payment. Keep payments manageable while paying all monthly interest. ◗ Option Three — Fully amortized 30-year payment. Reduce the principal and pay off your loan as scheduled. ◗ Option Four — Fully amortized 15-year payment. Own your home in half the time. ◗ Variable-rate mortgage loan with annual payment adjustments and monthly interest rate adjustments, after an initial fixed-rate period ◗ Deferred interest may result whereby the monthly payment may not cover all accrued interest. The interest shortfall is then “deferred” by adding it to the outstanding loan balance. ◗ Short Term Focused — maximum of 5 years recommended;

◗ Discipline and planning are required to use this product. If you make the minimum payment option and you do not reinvest the savings in cash, or debt reduction, you could end up owing more than your home is worth (negative equity). ◗ Excellent for the new-construction communities where the rate of appreciation is high and therefore you gain equity by appreciation and not repayment of the debt. As you can see, these products have their own niches to fit your needs. For a free prequalification or more information on these products and others, send your requests to astokes@fuzion-mag.com. t Antonio Stokes has 11 years of mortgage experience in both residential and commercial loan services. He is the owner of Your Lender for Life, P.C. You can contact him at 248-799-9690, ext. 224.

Fuzion Magazine www.fuzion-mag.com October/November 2005

Vine’s account of the events that followed is insightful, emotional and at times enraging. Her extensive research offers tremendous insight into the case that garnered national headlines in 1925. I happened to grow up just four blocks east of where Dr. Sweet and his family defended their home and as I read this book, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride about my old neighborhood. Detroit was recently named the most segregated region in the country. Reading the book, I couldn’t help but wonder what progress has been made in the past 80 years regarding race relations. Who knows, maybe we could all learn something from the pages of this masterfully written piece of history. t

The Mortgage Market — Continued from page 36

ability to captivate courtrooms. Darrow, a white man, was said to be a friend of the oppressed and believed strongly that courts and the law could tame injustice.

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Coire Nichols Houston and Hip Hop Action Network President Ben Chavis Shawn Robinson and Rev. Wendell Anthony at Freedom Weekend 2005 Gabriel Union at the Ritz Carlton Dearborn Actor Dwayne Hinton and Rev. Wendell Anthony at Freedom Fund Weekend 2005 Suzanne de Passe at Neiman Marcus Charlie Wilson Bruce Bailey at Fuse-In Detroit 2005 Charlie Wilson and Michael Micahnik Judge Greg Mathis at Freedom Fund Weekend 2005 Al Jarreau, Judge Craig Strong and Ray Brown, Jr. (son of Ella Fitzgerald)

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Coire Nichols Houston and Russell Simmons Dougie Fresh at Bad Boys of Comedy After Party R.J. Watkins and Leon Isaac Kennedy Ray Bone at Fuse-In Detroit 2005 Fuzion’s Michael Micahnik and Comedian Chris Thomas at Bad Boys of Comedy After Party Michael Micahnik, Shane Slaughter, Thurston Simpson and Angelo Ashman at Bad Boys of Comedy After Party Suzanne de Passe and Robert Harris MC Serch and Detroit Piston Lindsay Hunter Former Detroit Lion Herman Moore and Negro League baseball legend John “Buck” O’Neil Bill Cosby and Major General Luceus Theus, Tuskegee Airman

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P A P A R A Z Z I 1

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Hampton University Marching Band William Jones, Jr., vice president of Chrysler Financial; Russell Simmons; Ralph Giles, engineer and designer of the award-winning Chrysler 300 and Lil’ Jon Ron Gilliam, Suzanne de Passe and Vivian Pickard Al Jarreau and Judge Craig Strong Trac Byrd at Bad Boys of Comedy After Party Rhonda and Derrick Walker at Bal African 2005 WJLB’s MC Serch at 2005 Detroit Football Classic Russell Simmons Vivian Pickard