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Volume 79 – Number 49
A. Philip Randolph Institute hosts 47th Annual National Education Conference
August 17-23, 2016
michiganchronicle.com
A fresh start for DPS?
The challenge remains daunting, but no longer hopeless
Michigan Chronicle Reports
Seeking solutions to end to what it calls a “parasitic divisiveness” which is having a devastating social and economic impact on working families, the A. Philip Randolph Institute (APRI) will hold its annual Education Conference. “The Power of Unity… All Workers Matter” is the theme of the conference which will be held August John Conyers 24-28 at the Detroit Marriott Renaissance Hotel in Detroit. APRI is a 50 -year-old labor and social justice organization which advocates on behalf of African American working men and women across the nation. Hundreds of labor union activists, celebrities, political and civic engagement leaders, Rev. Jesse Jackson, and “Birth of a Nation” producer Nate Parker are among conference participants.
Alycia Meriweather, interim Detroit Public Schools Community District superintendent — Photo credit:
By Keith A. Owens In many ways, after all the turmoil experienced by Detroit Public Schools over more than a decade, it seems that the only direction to go is up. With all the headline-grabbing news reports of dead rodents in school hallways and freezing classrooms, not to mention rapidly declining enrollment, it’s hard to imagine things getting any worse.
Several prominent labor leaders, including Clayola Brown, APRI president, and Gerry Hudson, executive president, SEIU, will address the conferees. Congressman John Conyers will lead a discussion which will include several other members of Congress including Bobby Scott and Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX). Other speakers include Barbara Arnwine, Sirius XM Radio host Joe Madison, American Urban Radio Networks White House correspondent April Ryan, Melanie Campbell, national convener, Black Women’s Roundtable, and Nate Parker, director of the Cannes Film Festival award winning, critically acclaimed film “Birth of a Nation” and historian John Hope Franklin Jr. will also speak at the conference.
Fortunately, it appears that some steps toward measurable progress are being made. That’s the good news. The not-sogood news is that the mountain to climb is so steep – and the resources still painfully limited – that the task ahead can not afford any missteps or further miscalculations. There is little to zero wiggle room for error.
WHAT’S INSIDE
The extent of its role is ambiguously described in the legislation, but what’s not ambiguous about its description is that it’s not a school board. Its primary function is, as its name implies, to deal with finances.”
Senior Editor
This conference is to inform and train delegates on important issues directly impacting the black community. More than 500 labor and civil rights activists, including a delegation of youth activists ages 17-25 from across the U.S. will take part in activities.
On a more positive note, Rhodes said that much progress has been made in filling teacher vacancies with qualified teachers. “And just for the record, to say it the umpteenth million time, we are not going to hire any non-certified teachers, even though the law says we can. Not gonna happen,” he said.
Steven Rhodes —
Photo credit: Kimberley P. Mitchell/Detroit Free Press. Reprinted with permission.
One of the largest concerns among Detroiters was eliminating emergency management and returning the schools to community control with an elected school board. That long-awaited transition will occur during the November elections when Detroiters will once again be given the opportunity to elect their own school board.
Commission has to have a working relationship with the school board that fully recognizes the school board’s democratically mandated role in running those schools. We in the FRC are still working that out. It’s going to be a process. It’s going to take time. And when the school board comes in in January, it may have to be reset again.
“The people of this city want, and are entitled to local control,” said Judge Steven Rhodes, who began the first day of his appointed role as DPS transition manager by Gov. Rick Snyder on March 2.
“I understand why the legislature felt that some role for the Financial Review Commission was necessary. I supported that role here, just as I did in the Detroit bankruptcy case. But the FRC can’t be the school board. It can’t be a second school board. It has to play a lesser role.
“In order for the promise of local control to be fulfilled, the Financial Review
Meanwhile, the lives and futures of more than 45,000 Detroit children hang in the balance. Alycia Meriweather has been an employee of Detroit Public Schools for the past 20 years. She began attending public school in Detroit at the age of four. So it’s safe to say that Meriweather knows a few things about Detroit Public Schools. On March 7, five days after Rhodes began his tenure, Meriweather was appointed by Rhodes as interim superintendent of DPS (now DPSCD). All that experience was scant preparation for the perfect storm of catastrophes that came raining down like a swarm of screeching bats from practically her first day in office. “So here we are, and when you think about everything that’s happened since
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UNCF partners to build better futures in Michigan 5K Walk for Education, Aug. 27
Art is his business
Keith A. Owens
mission and most importantly, the students.
UNCF’s Michigan office will host “Michigan’s Building Better Futures™ Weekend” Aug. 27-28. The weekend features the 28th Annual 5K Walk for Education and UNCF Sunday, a our national faith and education initiative where UNCF supporters will join together to make an impact in the lives of Michigan students. “In a world where our students have to compete globally, we must prepare them. Education is the most important way we can leave a legacy for the next generation,” said Bishop-Elect Marvin Winans, pastor of Perfecting Church. “Historically black colleges and universities are important to the African American community because they’re taught in a way that is unique to the African American experience. UNCF has been the conduit to which many African American children have been able to access their goal of a college education. Perfecting Church has decided to lead the church community in supporting UNCF Sunday because we see ourselves as a ‘church of the city.’”
UNCF Michigan's Building Better Futures 5K walk participants enjoy the stroll. “We are so thrilled to expand the UNCF footprint in the Michigan area and to work with top business and religious leaders to make this year’s event a major success,” said Barbara Patton, UNCF area development director. “The loyalty of individuals and corporate employees is key to our continued success.
UAW-GM and General Motors have held the top fundraising trophy for the past 19 years, followed by UAW-Ford and Ford Motor Company, key examples of sustained commitment to hundreds of deserving college students from Michigan receiving needed scholarships. Local alumni continue to play an integral role in supporting the UNCF
“Ford Motor Company is a proud 2016 co-presenting sponsor of the UNCF Walk for Education. Our support spans 28 consecutive years, raising over $1 million to provide advanced education opportunities to students attending HBCUs and traditional colleges,” said Frederiek Toney, president of the Ford Customer Service Division. “UNCF is a facilitator of one of the most powerful tools for students to lift themselves and their families to higher economic equality. We know that many of the students who receive financial assistance are first-generation college students, making our efforts even more important. We look forward to continuing our partnership with UNCF to support this worthwhile cause.” Development Director Angela Bingham reminds why events like this are important and that the UNCF is just as vital today as it was when it was founded over 70 years ago. “UNCF is still needed because we are the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organiza-
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DWSD offers electronic claims for residents with water damage
‘We fixed the bridge’ After three years of inoperability, all repairs have been completed on the Jefferson Avenue Bascule Bridge and the bridge reopened to traffic at 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 12. Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans joined River Rouge and Ecorse officials, businesses and residents to celebrate the opening during a ribbon cutting. “For the last three years, the closure of the Jefferson Bascule Bridge has created headaches for residents and negatively impacted the downriver business community,” said Evans. “Reopening the Jefferson Bridge has remained one of my administration’s top priorities since taking office. The tireless effort and hard work of our administration has paid off and I can proudly say, “We fixed the d--- bridge.”
Improving Wayne County’s roads and bridges took center stage during Evans’ State of the County Address in March. He highlighted the administration’s determination to quickly repair the bridge, calling it an “important thoroughfare for the residents and businesses” of Ecorse and River Rouge. “We want to thank Wayne County Executive Evans for taking this project seriously. The bridge means so much to the community and having it open again is a welcome sight,” said River Rouge Mayor Michael Bowdler. Since construction started last August, engineers from the Wayne County Department of Public Services have made multiple repairs and improvements to make the bridge operational again.
The City of Detroit is committed to helping our affected homeowners and renters recover from heavy rainfall on July 8. If your home experienced a sewage backup from the rain, you may file a claim with the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department. Receipts and photographs are not required to submit an initial claim. DWSD will follow up with you and request receipts, photographs and other supporting documentation. All claims, electronic, mail, or in-person, must be submitted by August 22, 2016. If you do not wish to submit your claim online, you can mail it to: Detroit Water and Sewerage Department 6425 Huber Detroit, MI 48211 ATTN: Claims Division To file a claim online, visit http://detroitmi.gov/ dwsd District 4 Community Water Assistance Fair
Michigan Chronicle Reports
Attention residents south of East Jefferson: Join Councilman André Spivey for a Community Water Assistance Fair. You can get assistance with filing a claim with DWSD, schedule to get your basement sanitized, find out other resources available and schedule debris pickups.
The Detroit Department of Public Works has announced the following street closings:
When: Thursday, August 18, 2-6 pm
■W estbound Cadillac Square from Woodward to Bates will be closed completely now through Oct. 22, 2016 for street activities.
Where: Samaritan Center Wellness Center, 5555 Corner Street
■M onroe from Brush to St. Antoine will be closed completely now through Sept. 6, for a weekend festival (Friday to Sunday between 5 pm and 2 am).
Fore more information please call 313-224-4841
Upcoming road closures
■B rush from Montcalm to Beacon will be closed completely Aug. 18, for a tailgate event. ■A dams from Brush to John R will be closed completely Aug. 18, for a tailgate event. ■W estbound lanes on Michigan Ave from Griswold to Shelby will be closed completely now through September 2016 for building renovation. However, one lane in each direction for both eastbound and westbound traffic will be open at all times, using the eastbound lanes. ■C ongress from Woodward to Bates will have northern westbound lane and sidewalk closed for building renovation now through Oct. 31. ■S tate Street from Griswold to Shelby will have a partial closure of the eastbound lane and sidewalk for building renovation now through Nov. 13. ■S helby from State St to alley south of State Street will have a partial northbound lane closure for building renovation now through Nov. 13. ■G riswold from W. Grand River to John R will have northbound lane and parking lane closed from now through June 2017 for building renovation. However, one lane in each direction will be maintained. ■C adillac Square from Woodward to Bates will have parking lanes closed now through Oct. 29 for Food Huts, Monday through Friday from 11 AM to 2 PM, however two lanes in each direction will be maintained. ■W ashington from Larned to the alley east of Washington will be partially closed now through Oct. 31 for building construction. ■L arned from Washington to the alley north of Larned will be partially closed now through Oct. 31 for building construction. ■S helby from Grand River to State will be closed completely now through June 1, 2017 for building construction. ■S t. Antoine from E Lafayette to Monroe will be partially closed now through Dec. 30 for building construction. ■G rand River from Griswold to Woodward will be partially closed now through Jan. 25, 2017 for building construction.
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Note: The deadline to file a claim with the city is Monday, August 22. You can visit www.dwsd. org to file a claim online.
August 17-23, 2016
Page A-2
Wayne County Treasurer’s Office SEPTEMBER 2016 PROPERTY AUCTION
This auction is for those properties that have been lost to tax foreclosure and are now up for auction.
Auction Begins September 7th Auction registration dates are August 18th - September 9th
You can register to bid on properties at Waynecountytreasurermi.com. To bid you must register and pay your deposit by September 9th. Deposits required are: • $2,535 for one property • $10,035 for multiple properties For questions, call 313.224.2864, or email WCTauction@waynecounty.com Winning bidders will be required to pay the 2016 summer taxes in addition to the bid amount. State law will not allow participation by anyone who owes delinquent property taxes or has blight violations on other properties.
ALL PROPERTIES WILL BE SOLD AS IS! Photos shown are not properties actually being auctioned.
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August 17-23, 2016
Page A-3
Police abuse debate is more than a black-white issue By Luis Vasquez-Ajmac Urban News Service
While the national conversation on police and race seems like a black-and-white issue, many Latinos say they also feel mistreated by cops. “I grew up in East L.A., in an economically depressed neighborhood,” said Long Beach Police Chief Robert Luna, the first Latino to lead the Los Angeles area’s second largest law-enforcement agency. “I did not have the most positive contact with the police or the people around me. I very much understand the concerns.” Many Latinos report abusive experiences and negative opinions toward police, similar to those that numerous African Americans have expressed nationwide, according to a survey by the Associated Long Beach Police Press-NORC Center for Public Chief Robert Luna Affairs Research. “Excessive police use was a huge issue for the Hispanic-American community,” said Jennifer Benz, APNORC’s deputy director. Beyond answering this study’s specific questions, some respondents volunteered that “they or someone in their family was harshly treated by the police at far higher levels than whites,” she said. This is not just a white-and-black issue, according to Benz. “Across the country, roughly four in 10 Americans believe the reason for police violence is overall problems with race relations in our society,” she said. “Three-quarters of Americans think it would be more effective to have diverse police forces nationwide.” AP-NORC polled 1,200 white, black and Latino Americans on these topics in July 2015. Law enforcement “has a lot of work to do, to continue the dialogue and talk about the excessive use of force,” said LAPD Captain Tina Nieto, incoming president of the Hispanic American Police Command Officers Association. The L.A. native echoes those who advocate closing racial disparities by recruiting and hiring more people of color. “It’s very important to make an attempt to have a police force that reflects the community that you are servicing,” Nieto said. “I believe when your police force reflects the community, there are better outcomes.” Bryan Stevenson, executive director of the Equal Justice Initiative, said that where officers reside affects these matters. “We need officers to live in the communities where they police,” he said. “When they live outside the cities that employ them and commute in from neighborhoods that have very different, less diverse demographics, problems are aggravated.” The Manhattan Institute’s Heather McDonald disagrees. “This is an irrelevant consideration. It’s the classic Black Lives narrative that embraces the white cop/black victim line-up,” said the author of the new book, “The War on Cops.” “The Justice Department came out with a report last year in Philadelphia. It found that black and Hispanic officers were far more likely than white officers to shoot an unarmed black suspect. I think the inquiry of an officer’s skin color is largely a side show,” she said. Rene Galindo, a telecom network engineer for 2talk, grew up as a Mexican-American in South Central L.A. He said there are two systems of law: one for whites and another for people of color. “You thought it was normal for cops to stop you for no reason, check your personal property under no suspicion at all,” Galindo said. “I’ve been held for no apparent reason, just for walking home from a friend’s place at night.” Nieto, however, said police do not confront people at random. “I know we are not just stopping you because we want to stop you,” she said. “We are way too busy in the city of L.A. Citizens can always request a supervisor to the scene if you believe officers are doing something they are not supposed to do.” “Many people of color do not see cops as protectors, we see the opposite,” said Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the United Farm Workers union, which represents thousands of Mexican-American agricultural laborers. “They harass, intimidate and brutalize people of color and kill.”
White Americans have it different, some say.
“In most situations, white people are not presumed dangerous or guilty,” said Stevenson. “Because most police officers are white, this means that white people face a different level of threat and risk when they encounter the police.” Despite racial gaps in perceptions of law enforcement, most Americans say they want more diverse police forces to ease ethnic tensions. “It’s not surprising for those of us aware of how the Latino community across the country has been treated by police,” said Thomas A. Saenz, president of the Mexican-American Legal Defense and Educational Fund. “We need to recruit a more diverse police force.”
Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy to be honored during the 12th Annual Dennis W. Archer Public Service Awards Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy will be honored on Wednesday, Nov. 16, during the Detroit Metropolitan Bar Association Foundation’s 12th annual Archer Award event. The Dennis W. Archer Award is presented annually to an attorney or jurist who has followed an exemplary career of public service, says Archer Award co-chair Kathleen Lang of Dickinson Wright. “Our foundation created the Archer Award event for two main reasons. The first is to recognize outstanding legal professionals who exemplify the highest ideals of our profession, people who have made serving others the cornerstone of their working lives,” she said. “The second, equally important, reason for this event is that it raises funds for our own collective public service work, including free monthly legal clinics and the work of our foster children’s organization, For The Seventh Generation.” DMBA Foundation co-chair Keith Altenburg of Comerica, says
Prosecutor Worthy was an obvious choice to receive the 2016 Archer Award. “From her heroic efforts to clean up a shocking backlog of untested rape kits, to her office’s dedication to protecting vulnerable groups like senior citizens and LGBT individuals, Kym Worthy is a sterling example of everything this award stands for,” Altenburg said. “We're thrilled to have Prosecutor Worthy join the ranks of Archer Award honorees.” In addition to the award presentation, the Archer Award gala includes a strolling supper, open bar and an opportunity to network and socialize with other legal and business professionals at a landmark Detroit location. The location for this year's Archer event will be announced in early September. The DMBA Foundation created the Dennis W. Archer Public Service Award to honor legal professionals whose careers demonstrate an outstanding commitment to public service. The 2015 Archer Award
was presented to U.S. District Court Chief Judge Gerald Rosen and retired U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Steven Rhodes. In addition to former mayor Dennis Archer, past recipients include former Congressman John Dingell, Judge Harold Hood and Judge Victoria Roberts. Event reservations are $150 per person and are available online at http://conta.cc/2aJTD2z. Law firms and other area businesses are invited to become sponsors, thereby supporting the DMBA Foundation's charitable work. For information about the benefits of becoming a sponsor, contact Dawn Wolfe at dawn@dwolfecommunications.com. The Detroit Metropolitan Bar Association Foundation supports a diverse mix of programming and advocacy including Detroit Legal Services clinics, other Access to Justice initiatives, and For The Seventh Generation which matches donations of services and goods to metro Detroit-area foster children and families in need.
Once-hot artists’ palettes stay cool through campaign 2016 By Eric Easter Urban News Service
“If I’m 100 percent honest, I’ve tried hard to make a Hillary poster, but I can’t figure out where to start,” says Los Angeles-based graphic artist Charles White. “There’s no strong word or theme that sparks my imagination.” White is one of many creators who say that the 2016 race between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump lacks the inspiration of the artistically rich 2008 campaign. Astronaut. Warrior. Superman. Savior. If the posters and buttons made for Barack Obama’s historic first run could speak, he was all of those things and more. This art, most notably designer Shepard Fairey’s iconic “HOPE” poster, sparked a groundswell of grassroots support among the creative community. This “lightning in a bottle” movement, some say, lifted the excitement factor around the election of America’s first black president. But this time, observers — including many artists who fueled 2008’s effort — detect a lack of visual energy around both the Clinton and Trump campaigns. Some ask if this perceived creative listlessness mirrors opinion polls that reflect muted enthusiasm among young women for Hillary Clinton, partly based on the assumption among many of them that glass ceilings no longer impede female achievement. But Aaron Perry-Zucker — director of the Creative Action Network, the art/activism group that sprang from 2008’s endeavor — thinks this is more about changing times than anything else. “There are so many different forces at play this time. Most of all, expectations,” Perry-Zucker said. “People are always asking, ‘What will the next ‘HOPE’ poster be?’ But there already was one. Nothing is ever going to be the same as that. Also, we are really not interested in doing what we did before. The novelty wore off. It’s not the same kind of campaign, not the same atmosphere.” Perry-Zucker, a designer in his own right, thinks the source of de-
signs makes all the difference, saying, “2008 was a bottom-up effort that demonstrated the effectiveness of community and fan-led design, rather than top-down execution of a campaign brand identity.” Campaigns are embracing design with more intent in 2016, according to Perry-Zucker. “The unprecedented excitement of 2008 made campaigns realize that getting the design community excited is a smart thing to do,” he said. Still, the official logos of both the Trump and Clinton campaigns were panned by professional designers for being “boring” and out of date with current design trends. In response, Team Clinton recently launched the “45 Pin Project,” an apparent attempt to recapture the spirit of 2008 by enlisting 45 designers to develop buttons for the Democrat’s campaign. Perry-Zucker appreciates the intent of this initiative, noting, “It’s a top-down approach that attempts to be as bottom-up as possible. Some of the pins are pretty cool.” Many of the designers who created popular Obama posters simply have moved on to new assignments. “It took a while to unpack the success of 2008. How do you do that again without the element of a once-in-a-lifetime campaign? Many people have taken that idea and are creating work for other issues and opportunities for activism,” said
Perry-Zucker. However, White — whose interpretations of classic book and album covers sell by the thousands on the Etsy craft website — disputes Perry-Zucker’s assessment. “I think it has more to do with the personality of the candidates,” he said. “When Obama was running, he was the first serious black candidate. You can’t really be status quo in that role, and creative people fed off that energy.” Both Perry-Zucker and White pointed out that, from an artistic perspective, the better art has been focused against both candidates. Said White, “The real energy seems to be in the negative space. The candidates don’t inspire, so you focus more on the opponent. As a creative person, that’s more entertaining anyway .” Both designers say that 2008’s creative explosion stemmed from Obama being a charismatic person who was, in many ways, a blank slate. “I don’t think people remember how little we knew about Obama,” White said. “From a design point of view, that meant you could graft any image onto him and it could fly. With Trump and Clinton, we’ve known them for too long, their brands are cemented. I’m not so sure that design would be effective as a rebranding tactic for either side.”
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Fresh start
ation that DPSCD is currently in, even with the money granted by the legislature.
“I feel like once we got past July 1, and the new district was born, then I felt like we are in a position where we can move forward. We’re not distracted with Lansing, and we’re not distracted with all of these other things that were taking away from the work. Once we got past July 1, I felt like now we can really, really dig into the work and prepare for (the start of the school year).”
“So $25 million is what we have to invest. I don’t know how to get people to understand, because the story I keep hearing is that we got $617 million, which we should be thankful for, and that we should be able to pay somebody some money now. Or that we should be able to fix all of our buildings. We were really clear from the beginning; we’ve done intense analysis of our buildings. We said that we needed $65 million just to take care of the buildings.
Meriweather also pointed out that this will be the first year that the district will get the full per-pupil allocation without $1,100 per pupil going toward the debt. And that is a major hurdle cleared. Rhodes is also hopeful that the Detroit Public Schools Community District, formally created as of July 1, is on the right path. But he is equally aware of the challenges created by the $50 million gap between what was requested of the Michigan Legislature and what was granted. Rhodes’ term, originally scheduled to terminate at the end of September, has been extended until the end of December, after which he is gone. Had Rhodes not agreed to the three-month extension, yet another emergency manager would have had to be appointed for a single three-month term. “I went to the legislature, with the administration’s support, and said ‘we need not only the $515 million to pay the debt, but we need $200 million of transition costs and support to launch this new school district. That was not a number that was just pulled out of a hat. It was a number that this district and the treasury department came up with after a review of the minimum amount that the district would need to launch successfully and we didn’t get it. That’s a challenge,” said Rhodes. But Rhodes added that it is a challenge that has to be met. “The governor has promised that he and his administration will continue to find ways and fight for ways to make that additional $50 million available for DPSCD. That money was going to go into buildings. The buildings still need that money. And our children still need for the buildings to be fixed. I am satisfied that the governor and the administration understand this need and are committed to doing what it can to help us. I intend to hold him to his commitment.” Meriweather echoed Rhodes’ concern, saying that too many Detroiters still do not fully understand the situ-
“People need to understand that while $617 million was allocated to the district, we’re not sitting on $617 million. When it’s all said and done, when the legacy debt was satisfied, when the OldCo obligations were satisfied, when we take care of cash flow needs to get us to October, which is our first state aid note, we were left with basically $25 million. The money that was allocated to the district was allocated to satisfy the debt. We asked for $200 million. We were allocated $150 million.”
“When you talk about $65 million, when you’re talking about 94 buildings, I mean, if you’ve done home renovation and you fix the bathroom or a kitchen? And that’s at your house. Think of a school building. When you’re talking about windows and roofs and walls and boilers and plumbing and electrical…” In addition to the need for more funds, Rhodes still believes strongly that something resembling a Detroit Education Commission still needs to be created that would have control over where and when new schools could be opened. The DEC was removed from the Michigan House version of the bill that was ultimately approved. “If you were to begin today afresh to allocate school buildings throughout the city of Detroit, based on not only its current demographics and geography of demographics, but what you expect and want it to be in the future, you would not in a million years create the geographic distribution we have now. It is totally irrational. This is nothing against charters, nothing against whatever decisions DPS made about which schools to close, just a reflection of looking at the map and where schools are. It’s nuts.” Meriweather said she also hopes Detroiters vote in large numbers in November in the school board elections, especially after such a long, drawn out fight on the right to vote. Rhodes said it would not be proper for him to endorse any candidates, however he is doing all he can to help educate and inform those who are running so that they will have a clearer picture of the job they are applying for. “I want them to have the most wholesome debate they can have about the future of DPS. Where they think it should go academically. Where they think it should go involving the community, where they think it should go in terms of involving the public in their decision-making. We need to discuss all of that and give their vision of what success for DPSCD looks like.” Rhodes and Meriweather extended an open meeting to all 72 of the candidates to discuss all of those issues and more on Aug. 1. Fifty-two showed up. Another meeting is planned for September.
Olympic Pride athletes,1936
Berlin wasn’t just Jesse Owens’ Olympics
By Ronda Racha Penrice
Digging through the archives of the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, Draper Urban News Service found interview transcripts and then hunted down the corresponding audio. Gymnast Simone Biles. Swimmer As demonstrated in her breakthrough Simone Manuel. Shot putter Michelle black-model-focused 2012 documentaCarter. All three won gold medals at the ry, “Versailles ’73: American Runway Rio 2016 Olympics in sports not typicalRevolution,” Draper has a knack for letly associated with black American athting her subjects speak for themselves. letes. That was easy in “Versailles ’73;” her Eighty years ago, a grand total of two subjects were still alive. It is decidedly black American women athletes, Tidye more difficult when all the subjects are Pickett and Louise Stokes, both in track dead. But Draper is committed to letting and field, traveled to the 1936 Olympics black people speak, even if it is about in Berlin, where Jesse Owens won four the 1930s where their voices are harder gold medals. Because his victories de- to find. bunked Adolf Hitler’s pronouncements “I don’t like anyone to speak for me, of Aryan supremacy, many believe so I don’t want to take someone else’s Owens was the only black American voice from them Olympian there. because I don’t “He wasn’t like my voice alone,” says taken from me,” filmmaker DeboDraper says. “I rah Riley Draper. think that’s a re“There were 17 spect thing.” other people.” This also Her documenspeaks to the intary, “Olympic dependent filmPride, American maker’s work Prejudice,” tells ethic. Louise the stories of Stokes Fraser’s Pickett, Stokes son, Wolfie, recand the other Archie Williams with reporters after win ognized it imblack American mediately after Olympians with Owens. seeing an early cut of “Olympic Pride.” Nine of them also won medals in the “He looked for seven years to find Nazi capital. Some did so with Owens. footage of his mother and was unsucSome competed against him. Some cessful, and he was a cameraman for didn’t compete with him at all. NBC for 30 years,” says Draper, who Ralph Metcalfe shared the podium for found the footage in archives in both gold with Owens after the 4x100-meter Los Angeles and Berlin. relay. Then Metcalfe won silver to OwWhen he did see his mother, Draper ens’s gold in the 100-meter dash. Jackie says, “He cried a lot. He saw his mom on Robinson’s brother, Mack, took silver to the boat, and he saw his mom getting off Owens’s gold in the 200-meter dash. the bus. He saw his mom in the stadiIn high jump, Cornelius “Corny” um, the Nazi stadium, sitting there next Johnson won gold, while Owens’s fellow to Mack Robinson. His mother. And he Ohio State Buckeye, Dave Albritton, said he was so proud. Just seeing her snagged silver. Archie Williams mined reminded him of just how amazing his gold and James “Jimmy” LuValle bronze mother was.” in the 400-meter run. John Woodruff That kind of response is what keeps won gold in the 800-meter run. Freder- her Atlanta-based Coffee Bluff Producick “Fritz” Pollard scored bronze in the tions grinding. (Draper named the com100-meter hurdles, and Jackie Wilson pany after a historic stretch of her native earned silver in bantamweight boxing. Savannah.) “Olympic Pride” premiered Draper found their stories accidental- theatrically in New York and Santa ly while researching the life of American Monica on August 5. It is also available trumpeter Valaida Snow, who shared her on Comcast’s Xfinity Streampix and can tale after being interned during Hitler’s be pre-ordered on Amazon. A 10-city exrise. Snow’s positive comments about pansion is in the works for September. the black American Olympians in Berlin If Draper and those like her hope to sparked Draper’s curiosity. It took the continue to buck the Hollywood mainformer advertising executive four years stream, she says, the public will have to put the puzzle together. That puzzle to step up and massively support these is chock full of stunning archival foot- movies. age, interviews with some of the Olym“We need a movement to elevate the pians’ children, and even actual audio film in the consciousness of people who from Olympians Williams and LuValle. want to see this type of film. We need In fact, their words help narrator Blair folks on Facebook (1936OlympicsMovUnderwood, also an executive producer, ie) to tell us they like the film,” Draper tell the story. says. “It’s remarkable to have their voices “We have to convince distributors that and to have them kind of guide you there’s an appetite for African-American through their experience through Berlin. films,” Draper says. “People have to be It kind of feels like you’re having that convinced that African-Americans want conversation with Archie or Jimmy,” to see something different.” Draper says.
UNCF tion,” said Bingham. “We support our 37 member colleges and universities, manage over 400 scholarship programs and advocate for the federal government to increase funding for the Pell Grant and continue to increase support for all HBCU’s,” she continued. Tammy Golden, General Motors director of manufacturing support and North America manufacturing staffs, stated, “The UAW and GM are proud to support the UNCF in its quest to provide education to students in this competitive landscape. We know that education is the price of entry to the workforce and every student that wants an education should be afforded one. The UAW-GM team is committed to ensuring the mission of the UNCF.” Michigan’s Building Better Futures Weekend provides the unique opportunity to partner with businesses, organizations and churches to help UNCF Michigan reach their fundraising goal of $700,000 to support deserving Michigan students. Parents, middle school, high school and college students are encouraged to attend the walk, as they will learn about the UNCF and Historically Black College and Universities as an alternative option to state public and private colleges.
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From page A-1
March 7 to today, it’s really incredible. When I talk to other superintendents, in their whole tenure – that could be five years, 10 years, even as many as 15 years as a superintendent – they might have had one of the things that’s happened in the last five months happen. So when you think about the legislative piece, when you think about the budget piece, when you think about the legal piece, the various indictments, the sickouts, the facilities, I could go on and on. But most organizations have one of those happen in a 10-year period, and we’ve had all of those happen in five months,” said Meriweather.
For example, “I think we do have some real issues related to peoples’ pay. We’re working on our building issues. We are chipping away. We have three buildings that are getting new roofs. We’ve got boilers that are being installed at different schools. So we’re slowly chipping away at things we know are concerns,” she said.
August 17-23, 2016
From page A-1
UNCF “Michigan’s Building Better Futures™ Weekend” Saturday, Aug. 27, 2016 UNCF 28th Annual 5K Walk for Education, Belle Isle Casino, Detroit, 8 a.m.-noon Sunday, Aug. 28, 2016 UNCF Sunday, Presenting Host Church – Perfecting Church, 7616 E. Nevada, Detroit 10:45 a.m., 3 p.m. Hartford Memorial Baptist Church, 18700 James Couzens Fwy., Detroit 7:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. Oak Grove AME, 19801 Cherrylawn St, Detroit, MI, 8:00 a.m. For more information or sponsorship opportunities of the UNCF Michigan’s Building Better Futures™ Weekend, visit http://www.uncf.org/detroit or contact angela.bingham@uncf.org at 313.873.1500. Follow Michigan’s Building Better Futures™ Weekend: @uncf @uncfmichigan #laceup4UNCF About UNCF UNCF (the United Negro College Fund) is the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization. To serve youth, the community and the nation, UNCF supports students’ ed-
ucation and development through scholarships and other programs, supports and strengthens its 37 member colleges and universities, and advocates for the importance of minority education and college readiness. UNCF institutions and other Historically Black Colleges and Universities are highly effective, awarding 21 percent of African American baccalaureate degrees. UNCF administers more than 400 programs, including scholarship, internship and
fellowship, mentoring, summer enrichment, and curriculum and faculty development programs. Today, UNCF supports more than 60,000 students at over 1,100 colleges and universities across the country. Its logo features the UNCF torch of leadership in education and its widely recognized motto, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”® Learn more at UNCF.org or for continuous updates and news, follow UNCF on Twitter at @ UNCF.
news
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
August 17-23, 2016
Page A-5
Simone Manuel breaks racial barriers with epic win
By Chasidy Hall
Special to the Michigan Chronicle
Wayne County Commission Vice-Chair Alisha Bell (second from left) was elected president of the National Association of Black County Officials at the National Association of Counties’ 2016 Annual Conference & Exposition, held July 22-25 in Long Beach, California. Above (from left), Commissioner Bell is joined by fellow NABCO officials Commissioner Carolyn Parker (Etowah County, Alabama), Southern Region Director; Commissioner Willie Brooks (Shelby County, Tennessee), Secretary; Commissioner Loretta Smith (Multnomah, Oregon), Western Region Director; and Commissioner Erin Hinson (Gadsen County, Florida), second vice president. Not pictured is Commissioner Bob Harrison of Madison County, Alabama, first vice president.
Wayne County Commission Vice Chair Alisha Bell honored to be elected president of NABCO Wayne County Commission ViceChair Alisha Bell’s trip to the National Association of Counties (NACo) 2016 Annual Conference & Exposition held July 22-25 in Long Beach, California, was a historic one, netting her several prominent leadership positions. Bell, D-Detroit, who has been an active member of NACo for several years, was elected president of two organizations — the National Association of Black County Officials and the Women of NACo. In addition, Bell was reappointed to one of the 10 at-large NACo board positions. “I am truly honored and so appreciative of the opportunity to serve prominently with these wonderful organizations,” said Bell, who represents the Commission’s 7th District, covering part of Detroit’s west side. “Attending these conferences allows elected officials to listen, discuss and share ideas, and then to make sure our voices are heard in Washington before Congress. I have been honored to be a member of NACo for several years and look forward to continuing to represent Wayne County on issues that affect all of us. “Serving as president of NABCO is a special honor because my mom, Edna Bell, served as president of this great organization 20 years ago. I look forward to growing our membership as well as providing pertinent information to our members that will assist them in providing their constituents with the best in county services.”
The conference featured workshops and meetings addressing counties’ role in public safety, public health and economic development, and included powerful speeches from NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and historian Jon Meacham. Abdul-Jabbar discussed race in American society, while Meacham focused on divisiveness in American political history. Bell, who joined more than 2,500 elected and appointed officials at the 81st NACo conference, is a member of NACo’s Justice and Public Safety Committee and is chair of its Juvenile Justice sub-committee. She is also a member of the Large Urban Caucus Committee (LUCC).
This year’s Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil featured many incredible athletes that represent the USA in many sports. The latest in the headlines is Simone Manuel who made history as the first African American woman to win the gold medal in Olympic swimming. “She tied with fellow Olympian Penny Oleksiak of Canada with the fastest time of 52.70 seconds” as reported by the New York Times. Manuel’s gold medal victory breaks the stereotype that African Americans can’t swim and it serves as a major obstacle to overcome for a sport that is associated with its racial history. In this country, people often joke that African Americans can’t or don’t swim. However, according to a 2012 study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 70 percent of African Americans cannot swim. There are many factors that affect thi, including the lack of access to public pools in the urban community, fears of death in the water and the segregation history behind swimming. In addition, another known factor for this is that the older generation who grew up during the period of segregation such as our grandparents did not teach their family members how to swim. The reason for that is that they themselves did not get an opportunity to learn because of the simple fact that blacks were not allowed to partake in this activity in the 1940s and 1950s. According to Dr. Jeff Wiltse the author of “Contested Waters: A Social History of Swimming Pools in America,” “During the 1920s and 1930s, and it really continued on even further up
from there, there were racist assumptions that black Americans were dirtier than whites, that they were more likely to be infected by communicable diseases. And so, in part, the push for racial segregation and racial exclusion was for white swimmers to avoid being infected by the supposed ‘dirtiness’ of black Americans.” During this time, based on those assumptions alone, it made it difficult for black swimmers to join their white peers in the water. Young African Americans back then were often faced with violence by whites just for attempting to get in the pool. Manuel’s victory opens the door to future African American women who are interested in the sport. She serves as a huge inspiration to young black children who aspire to be a swimmer one day. After her epic win she responds with this statement to the reporter during an interview: “I definitely think it raises some awareness and will get them inspired,” Manuel, 20, said about the significance of her accomplishment. “I mean, the gold medal wasn’t just for me. It was for people that came before me and inspired me to stay in the sport. For people who believe that they can’t do it, I hope I’m an inspiration to others to get out there and try swimming. You might be pretty good at it.” Simone Manuel’s triumph serves as a huge accomplishment for African Americans around the country. It is an epic win because of the racial stigma associated with swimming. Overcoming those stereotypes and bypassing its unpleasant history takes thick skin, endurance and strength.
Bell is in her seventh term as a Wayne County commissioner, dating back to 2003, and third term as vice-chair of the Commission, as selected by her peers. She serves on three committees — Ways and Means, as vice-chair, Health and Human Services, and Public Safety, Judiciary and Homeland Security. Founded in 1935, NACo assists counties “in pursuing excellence in public service to produce healthy, vibrant, safe and resilient counties. It promotes sound public policies, fosters county solutions and innovation, promotes intergovernmental and public-private collaboration and provides value-added services to save counties and taxpayers money,” according to its mission statement.
Simone Manuel
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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • August 17-23, 2016
AS ONE JOURNEY ENDS, ANOTHER BEGINS. CONGRATULATIONS!
Eight Howard University students were selected to take the journey and DISCOVER THE UNEXPECTED—a firstever fellowship program sponsored by the all-new 2016 Chevrolet Malibu in partnership with the National Newspaper Publishers Association. Congratulations to our brilliant fellows! Thank you for taking us on this wonderful journey. May you continue to discover new roads that help you shatter perceptions and inspire us all.
#discovertheunexpected
DISCOVER MORE OF THEIR STORY AT NNPA.ORG/DTU
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Nancy Schlichting (left), chief executive officer of Henry Ford Health system, and Dr. John Popovich, president and chief executive officer, Henry Ford Hospital, honored Comerica in 2013 with the hospital’s “Outstanding Foundation” recognition at the third annual Henry Ford Hospital Grand Ball. Forte accepted the award on the bank’s behalf.
August 17-23, 2016
Forte proudly presents Amina Daniels, founder of Live Cycle Delight and winner of the 2015 Comerica Hatch Detroit contest, with $50,000 toward the establishment of her business in Detroit. Live Cycle Delight will open its new cycle studio this fall in Detroit’s West Village.
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Driving diversity, empowering the community and embracing change Forte and her husband Tyrone Davenport have been longtime supporters of the North End Youth Improvement Council’s Adopt A Child program held annually at Cobo Hall. In December 2015, Forte provided gifts to 15 children. Her enthusiasm for the program has inspired other Comerica colleagues to become involved with the program.
retires after 42 years with Comerica Bank Forte shares her passion for community service with a group of volunteers at Walsh College during their annual volunteer recognition event. She views volunteerism as a way to join together with others to make a positive impact on someone’s life or in the community.
Linda Forte sits with her grandson as a young girl hastily pulls tissue paper from a colorful gift bag, revealing a bright new sweatshirt jacket. A grin grows wide across the young girl’s face – it’s pink, her favorite color. Forte leans over to her grandson, using the day handing out presents to those who can’t afford them, as a teaching moment. Forte reminds him of the importance of giving back and the joy they have brought to a young girl’s Christmas – the same values she’s embodied at Comerica Bank. Forte, Comerica Bank’s senior vice president of business
See LINDA FORTE page B-2
Comerica colleague Charise Key presents Forte with Comerica’s African American Network’s Leadership Excellence Award earlier this year.
Carolyn Cassin, president and CEO of the Michigan Women’s Foundation, joins Forte and Hatch Detroit’s Nick Gorga and Vittoria Katanski to kick off this year’s Comerica Hatch Detroit contest announcement and discuss the new Michigan Women’s Foundation microloan fund for Hatch alumni. Comerica Bank contributed $25,000 to establish the fund.
Forte hopes to inspire others to get involved by sharing stories of the extensive From pouring pancake batter to painting floats in preparation for the annual volunteer service provided to the local community through the Comerica Cares Thanksgiving Day parade, Forte is always willing to lend a helping hand at the volunteer program. Parade Company in Detroit.
community
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
Linda Forte affairs and chief diversity officer, embraces giving back. In her 42 years with Comerica Bank, she has led the organization to create a culture of community engagement and has inspired her colleagues to volunteer thousands of hours per year supporting nonprofit organizations and community events. Forte has also been a key player in developing Comerica’s diversity programs, now one of the best and most recognized in the country. After more than four decades with the bank, Forte recently announced her plans to retire later this month. “I have been blessed with a career in which I could fulfill my passion to empower others,” said Forte, who has overseen the Comerica Charitable Foundation, Comerica Contributions and Civic Affairs, as well as helped to define and drive business strategies establishing Comerica as a leader in diversity and work life practices. “It has been a privilege to help raise appreciation and support for the diverse members of our community, as well as make our communities better through corporate contributions and volunteerism.” Driving Diversity During her tenure with Comerica, Forte has been instrumental in identifying diversity as one of the bank’s key business drivers, promoting outreach to a wide range of markets and nurturing relationships with diverse business owners, professionals and community influencers. Forte has also served an integral role in the development of Comerica’s internal diversity programming including the formation of employee networking groups and the bank’s well regarded Master of Diversity Awareness program, which supports understanding of the value of an inclusive workplace. “Linda has long championed the inherent dignity of each and every person inside all of the communities that we serve,” said Michael T. Ritchie, president of Comerica Bank-Michigan. “She has been a strong advocate to include opportunities for all and to inspire others to become the best versions of themselves that they can be.” Forte says she lives by the philosophy of “celebrating the differences amongst people to best serve the community.” This year Forte was recognized as one of Black Enterprise’s “Top Executives in Diversity.” Empowering the Community
From page B-1
August 17-23, 2016
Page B-2
Comerica Bank’s Michigan Index Dipped as Auto Production Eased Comerica Bank’s Michigan Economic Activity Index was down 0.6 percentage points in May to a level of 128.3. May’s reading is 54 points, or 73 percent, above the index cyclical low of 74.0. The index averaged 123.7 points for all of 2015, five and four-fifths points above the index average for 2014. April’s index reading was 128.9.
Forte discusses the establishment of a Transportation Fund through the Detroit Public Schools Foundation to support field trips for DPS students. Comerica’s contribution to the fund kicked off the foundation’s 2012 Give Back to Detroit Schools campaign and helped enhance the educational experience for students beyond the classroom. Carolyn Cassin, president and CEO of the Michigan Women’s Foundation – an organization that recently became involved with Hatch Detroit thanks to Forte – recalls how Forte was the first to commit to the “Power of 100 Women” initiative, helping to secure support from others in the community leading the nonprofit on a path toward success. “I think of Linda as a quiet architect in the resurgence of Detroit,” said Cassin. “She has dedicated her life to building the city from within and she’s leaving a legacy by empowering women, including women of color, to take active leadership roles in the community.” Outside of her role with Comerica, Forte serves on numerous boards including the Economic Development Corporation of the City of Detroit, the Neighborhood Development Corporation of the City of Detroit, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, New Detroit, the Downtown Detroit Business Improvement Zone (BIZ), the Executive Leadership Council, the United Negro College Fund’s Michigan Leadership Team and much more. “I’ve always been focused on responding and reacting to the needs of my community,” said Forte. “Oftentimes, I do this by accepting board nominations where I can make a meaningful contribution.”
Embracing Change Under Forte’s leadership, Comerica has As Comerica bids contributed millions of dollars to nonprofits in its communities and provides Comerica’s farewell to a valued colleagues meaningful community volunteer member of its senior opportunities through the bank’s national- leadership team, two inly recognized “Comerica Cares” program. dividuals with a strong Forte has been key to Comerica’s ongo- dedication to Comerica’s ing support of game-changing initiatives in colleagues and its comNathaniel the community such as the bank’s flagship munities will step in to fill Bennett sponsorship of the Comerica Hatch Detroit her shoes. Contest, which became a catalyst for other Nathaniel Bennett, Comerica’s senior CBP-6100-12 CRE Ad-MM.pdf 1 8/3/16 10:07 AM business development competitions in De- vice president of talent acquisition, will troit.
assume the role of Comerica’s new chief diversity officer. Bennett has been involved with Comerica’s diversity program since joining the bank in 2009, most recently assisting the bank’s employee resource network groups, including its Veteran Leadership Network, in attracting veterans and other talent to Comerica.
“Our Michigan Economic Activity Index dipped in May after increasing in April. Only two out of eight index components increased for the month. They were initial claims for unemployment insurance (inverted) and the house price index. Auto production, state exports, housing starts, sales tax and hotel occupancy all eased. The push to the Michigan economy from the post-recession rebound in the auto industry is dissipating. Also, the strong dollar and soft global demand are still headwinds for U.S. exports,” said Robert Dye, Chief EconRobert A.Dye omist at Comerica Bank. “We expect the Bank of Japan to take more steps to weaken the value of the yen relative to the dollar and the euro, which will help the Japanese auto industry globally at the expense of U.S. and European automakers.”
“Diversity and community involvement are core values at Comerica. As chief diversity officer, Nathan will reinforce our deep commitment to a diverse workforce, community and customer base,” said Ralph Babb, chairman and CEO, Comerica Bank. “This role fits perfectly with Nathan’s focus on talent acquisition, since we know that when our workforce truly reflects the demographics of our markets, we will better serve our customers, grow our business and build an even stronger organization.” Michigan native Monica Martinez will return to her home state after five years with Comerica in Texas. She will assume the role of senior vice president of external affairs, responsible for community outreach and corporate contributions in Michigan, while continuing to serve as Comerica’s national director of Hispanic business development. Martinez joined Comerica in 2006 in support of the bank’s ongoing commitment to building strong relationships with diverse business owners, entrepreneurs and communities. “I look forward to the opportunity to reconnect with community organizations and their leaderships in Detroit and throughout the state, where I have developed so many lasting friendships,” said Martinez. “Our greatest pride as a bank comes from investing in the communities we serve. Comerica has an unwavering commitment to the Detroit and Michigan community and I am pleased to help further that commitment through a variety of efforts.”
The Michigan Economic Activity Index consists of eight variables, as follows: nonfarm payrolls, exports, hotel occupancy rates, continuing claims for unemployment insurance, housing starts, sales tax revenues, home prices, and auto production. All data are seasonally adjusted, and indexed to a base year of 2008. Nominal values have been converted to constant dollar values. Index levels are expressed in terms of three-month moving averages. Comerica Bank, with more than 200 banking centers in Michigan, is a subsidiary of Comerica Incorporated (NYSE: CMA), a financial services company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, and strategically aligned by three business segments: The Business Bank, The Retail Bank, and Wealth Management. Comerica focuses on relationships, and helping people and businesses be successful. In addition to Michigan and Texas, Comerica Bank locations can be found in Arizona, California, and Florida, with select businesses operating in several other states, as well as in Canada and Mexico.
To find Comerica on Facebook, please visit www.facebook.com/ComericaCares. Follow us on Twitter at @Comerica_Econ.
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And, with historically low rates, there’s never been a more opportunistic time to expand your business with a commercial real estate loan from Comerica. As the leading bank for business*, we’ve been financing business expansion for nearly 150 years. Whether you need to build or purchase, expand or refinance, it’s the right time. Are you ready? Call 800.705.2387, stop by a Comerica banking center or visit comerica.com/cre.
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community
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
August 17-23, 2016
Page B-3
Detroit Zoo attendance tops 1 million for 11th year The community said “thanks a million” to the Detroit Zoo for the 11th consecutive year on August 6 when 2016 attendance surpassed 1 million. The milestone was reached nearly three weeks ahead of last year.
Phil Martin, Back2School golf participant, and Byron Ramsey, R.E.A.C.H. media coordinator
R.E.A.C.H. Back2School Golf Outing provides On Friday, Aug. 26, R.E.A.C.H. Youth Programs will host its 2nd Annual Back2School Golf Outing at the Rackham Golf Club. Last year, over 50 community members and 25 business sponsors helped support the organization’s back to school efforts. The event was established to assist Detroit youth prepare for the upcoming school year by helping provide books, backpacks, uniform/ clothing allowances and scholarship stipends for qualifying families. R.E.A.C.H.’s signature end-of-summer summer event will, once again, be vital in providing some assistance to the youth of the Detroit Metro area getting prepared for their upcoming school year. ‘The beginning of a new school year is a very special time for students of all ages,” says R.E.A.C.H. executive director, Marcus Webster. The Back2School golf outing supports R.E.A.C.H.’s efforts to provide essential items for our participants and youth throughout the Detroit Metro area in getting prepared for the upcom-
ing school year. Since 1980, R.E.A.C.H. Youth Programs, Inc. has been providing youth services in the Northeast area of Detroit primarily. Partnering and collaborating with various neighborhood organizations and providing a strong network of youth services throughout this area. Collaboration with entities for more than 20 years such as St. Rita Catholic Church, Truth Lutheran, Detroit Public Schools (Pershing, Nolan, Farewell, and Marshall). Currently in collaboration with the Arab American Chaldean Center (A.C.C.) The current location of operations was newly built in 2006 the A.C.C. Youth Center 62 W. Seven Mile, Detroit, MI. Services available After-School programming, Computer Lab, Family Assistance referrals, Recreational Activities (primarily Basketball ages 8-17), with total access to ACC Family and Youth services offered at the center The Back2School Golf tournament will take place at Rackham Golf Course 10100 W. 10 Mile Rd. in Huntington Woods.
“We appreciate the million-plus visitors who have supported the Detroit Zoo this year, not only with their feet walking our 125 acres but also with their votes on the millage renewal earlier this month,” said Detroit Zoological Society Executive Director and CEO Ron Kagan. The new Polk Penguin Conservation Center, the largest facility for penguins in the world, is a contributing factor to the strong attendance. The facility has welcomed more than 735,000 zoo visitors since it opened April 18, boosting the year’s turnout. The 33,000-squarefoot facility features a 326,000-gallon, 25-footdeep aquatic area where visitors can watch as more than 80 penguins of four species explore their habitat. An underwater gallery and two acrylic underwater tunnels provide breathtaking views of the birds as they swim above, around and below. In 2015, the Detroit Zoo smashed its modern-day attendance record, attracting 1,476,378 visitors. The previous record, set in 1997, was 1,364,905. With the opening of the penguin center, the Detroit Zoo is on track to break attendance records again in 2016. The Detroit Zoological Society – a nonprofit organization that operates the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Zoo – is recognized as a leader in conservation, animal welfare and sustainability as well as providing sanctuary for animals in need of rescue. With an annual regional economic impact of more than $100
The new Polk Penguin Conservation Center million, the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak is one of Michigan’s largest paid family attractions, hosting more than 1.4 million visitors annually. Its 125 acres of award-winning naturalistic habitats are home to 2,400 animals representing 255 species. In recognition of its environmental leadership, the Detroit Zoo received the top Green Award from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, and was named Best-Managed Nonprofit by Crain’s Detroit Business. The Belle Isle Nature Zoo sits on a 5-acre site surrounded by undisturbed forested wetlands on Belle Isle State Park in Detroit and provides year-round educational, recreational and environmental conservation opportunities for the community. For hours, prices, directions
CORRECTION In the August 10 edition, there were two errors in “The Harriet Commock Show,” on page B-1. Harriet Cammock is the correct spelling of Ms. Cammock’s last name. We also incorrectly stated that she is from Antigua Bay. She is from Mantego Bay, Jamaica. We regret the errors.
and other information, call 248-541-5717 or visit www.detroitzoo.org.
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JustAskJaye@gmail.com or call (248) 298-5000. Dear Momma Bear: You’re the mother of an adult and you want to gift your adult child a family home, but you don’t like the Fiancée. How can you keep the child’s future spouse from inheriting your family home? The short answer is that when your male child gets married, his wife will have full rights to any home he owns unless she signs a prenuptial agreement or she waives her rights to the home. If your adult child is a female, her husband does not automatically have courtesy rights. The best strategy for excluding your child’s spouse is to have your son or daughter-in-law sign a waiver of rights affidavit to your family home. I also suggest deeding the property to yourself and your child as joint tenants in common with full rights of survivorship. This type of deed allows your child to own the property without having to file a probate case when/if you pass away. Jaye Sanders, Broker, HGTV real estate Send your questions to justaskjaye@gmail.com or call me at 248-298-5000.
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(313) 963-5522 e-mail:newsdesk@michronicle.com August 17-23, 2016
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CATHY NEDD Associate Publisher KEITH A. OWENS Senior Editor SAMUEL LOGAN Publisher 1933-2011
JOHN H. SENGSTACKE Chairman-Emeritus 1912-1997 LONGWORTH M. QUINN Publisher-Emeritus 1909-1989
This is why black-owned newspapers matter By Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. NNPA President and CEO
In 2017, we will celebrate 190th anniversary of the black press in America. Since the first publication of Freedom’s Journal on March 16, 1827 in New York City, black-owned newspapers have led the way when it comes to raising a voice of consciousness for black America. In 2016, black-owned newspapers still matter. Black lives matter. Black votes matter. Black press matters. In order to overcome racial inequality and injustice, we have to emphasize the importance of nurturing and mentoring the rise of a new generation of freedom-fighting journalists, publishers and Benjamin Chavis African American owners of newspapers and media companies. There is a huge, qualitative difference between media that is black-owned and non-black-owned media that is targeted to Black consumers. Numerous national studies have documented that blackowned newspapers remain the “trusted and respected” source of news, empowering success stories, and cultural aspirations for more than 45 million black Americans. The inaugural Discover the Unexpected (DTU) NNPA Journalism Fellowship Program this summer at the Howard University School of Communications supported by Chevrolet has done remarkably well in identifying and encouraging the next generation of gifted, talented and committed young journalism scholars. The National Newspaper Publishers Association is pleased with the positive and transformative results of the DTU fellowships. The NNPA fellows scored front-page news features in NNPA member newspapers across the nation. In addition to attending both the Republican National Convention in Cleveland, Ohio and the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia, Pa., the NNPA fellows completed assignments that covered a
wide range of subjects from Muhammad Ali’s legacy and black arts and culture to contemporary black family life, the 2016 Olympics in Rio, mass incarceration, new data on police and prosecutorial misconduct and abuse, and the struggle to preserve Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This summer, Brandi Montgomery and Brelaun Douglas worked at the Atlanta Voice, Briahnna Brown and Mckenzie Marshall at the Chicago Defender, Victoria Jones and Rushawn Walters worked at the Washington Informer, and Tatyana Hopkins and Sidnee King worked at the Michigan Chronicle. Black-owned newspapers are businesses and employers that continue to serve the economic development interests of black communities. As the economy in the United States continues to rebound from economic stagnation and recession under the leadership of the first African American president, it should also be a national priority to ensure the advancement of the economic well-being of black families, businesses, and communities. In the face of historic, political opposition led by the Republican-controlled Congress, President Barack H. Obama, has achieved leadership success in restoring and revitalizing the U.S. economy. In particular, the automotive industry has set new records this year in automobile sales. Thus, we note, with appreciation, those companies in the automotive sector that have been supportive of the NNPA during these difficult and challenging times. General Motors brands continue to advertise with the NNPA and as a consequence contribute to the sustainability of the black press in America. In particular, Chevrolet has been outstanding in its support of Discover the Unexpected scholarships as part of the current NNPA fellows program. Chevrolet also increased its advertising with many NNPA newspapers this year. It is our hope that this successful pilot program will be continued and even expanded in the upcoming academic year. Long live black-owned newspapers and the struggle for freedom, justice and equality. Yes, black-owned newspapers do matter.
Poverty, desperation in a world-class city By Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.
ery.
Chicago is one of America’s greatest cities. Yet many of its residents live in terror in what is virtually a war zone. When a demented killer slayed 49 in a gun rampage in Orlando, Fla., there was national attention. Presidential candidates called for escalating the fight against the Islamic State in the Middle East, even though the killer seems to be a homegrown terrorist.
These are disaster zones in a supposedly world-class city. They look like they are under siege, and to some extent they are. Drugs and guns, violence and despair mark lives condemned to live in these zones.
But in Chicago, 404 have died in gun violence this year. According to the Congressional Research Service, the murder rate averaged 16.0 per 100,000 a year from 2010-2014. That is nearly four times the national Jesse L. Jackson average of 4.6 per 100,000 and nearly three times the Illinois state average (5.8). These killings are not randomly distributed. African Americans constitute about one-third of Chicago’s residents, but they account for 80 percent of its murder victims. The killings are concentrated in endangered communities, communities burdened with abject poverty and deplorable conditions. In West Garfield Park, the average per capita income is $10,951. More than 40 percent of the residents live below the poverty line, with an unemployment rate greater than 25 percent. In Englewood, the average per capita household income is $11,993. Forty-two percent of households live below the poverty line, with an unemployment rate over 21 percent. In Fuller Park, per capita household income is $9,016, with a majority — 55.5 percent — of households living below the poverty line. The unemployment rate is 40 percent. Washington Park, North Lawndale, Austin, Greater Grand Crossing, East Garfield Park. The list goes on. During the height of the Great Depression, the unemployment rate hovered at roughly 20 percent. These neighborhoods are suffering levels twice that, now six years into the supposed recov-
The war in Iraq — one the Bush administration chose to launch — will end up costing us more than $3 trillion. And of course, the wars go on — in Afghanistan, in Syria, in Iraq, in Yemen, and now the U.S. is beginning to bomb Libya. But the right now disaster zones in Chicago are ignored. The everyday violence is decried but nothing is done. The poverty is regretted but there is no plan to attack it. In fact, national policy does more to expand the divide between endangered communities and affluent ones, between those living in the disaster zone and those living uptown. A new report by the Institute for Policy Studies and the Center for Enterprise Development details the growing racial wealth gap in America. They find that without a drastic change in policy, by 2043, when people of color are projected to account for more than half of the U.S. population, the racial wealth divide between white households and African American and Latino households will have doubled from about $500,000 in 2013 to more than $1 million. The gap reflects the impact of historic inequities — from federally sanctioned housing discrimination to private redlining — but its expansion is fueled in part by tax policies that aid the highest earners while providing the lowest income families with virtually nothing. But the impact of these expenditures has been “upside down.” With typical millionaires pocketing about $145,000 in public tax benefits each year to increase their wealth while working families receive a total of $174 on average. Adding benefits to the wealthy few — like Donald Trump’s call to end the estate tax — will add to the inequity and contribute to the despair. If nothing changes, the desperate zones will get worse. Surely this crisis is worthy of debate in the presidential campaign, and action from the White House and Congress.
Quote of the Week:
“America doesn’t have the moral authority to tell the whole world what to do.” — Spike Lee
An open letter to America That man over there says that women need to be helped into carriages, and lifted over ditches, and to have the best place everywhere … I have borne thirteen children, and seen most all sold off to slavery, and when I cried out with my mother’s grief, none but Jesus heard me! And ain’t I a woman? – Sojourner Truth Delivered at a 1851 Women’s Convention in Akron, Ohio
By Rodrick Miller With these startling, yet simplistic, words Sojourner Truth brilliantly captured the duality of being both, a black American and a woman as the fight for equality for both of these groups was being deliberated in earnest in the mid19th century. It saddens me to say that, though we are nearly two centuries removed from that era, this same debate of intersectionality – for black women and men – is something with which we wrestle daily, both collectively as a people and individually as we navigate our own Rodrick Miller places in society. In light of recent and seemingly countless incidents in which we find ourselves skeptically considering whether the rights outlined in US Constitution are really applied fairly and equally to people of color, I find myself painfully pondering the questions, “Aren’t a man? Aren’t I an American?” On paper, one would think that such a quandary would be as distant today as 2016 is from 1851. Sadly, it is not. Whether it’s our Republican presidential nominee’s reluctance to disavow the Ku Klux Klan, the Tamir Rice killing and other police shootings, or the consistent questioning of President Obama’s birthplace and religion, questions regarding rights, citizenry, respect and equality still permeate everyday interactions for black Americans. I’m a father, brother and son. I’m a Southerner. I’m a Christian. I’m Harvard educated, firmly middle class, and I’m a patriot. But I, too, face a strained duality: I’m the son of a military officer, grandson of a sharecropper, and the great great grandson of a slave. I am a black man completely cognizant of my community’s plight and struggle and unapologetic about the beauty and pain of America. I’m grateful to this country for the opportunities that it has given me to gain an education, worship in freedom, and provide for my family. Yet, I’m panged by the harsh reality that, by many of my fellow citizens, I am seen first as a black man and all which that connotes and as an American second, if at all. Yet, such a demarcation is pretend. Being black in America is as American as apple pie. This country was built on the backs and free labor of my ancestors. And as America has worked to atone the vestiges of slavery and Jim Crow, I have had the privilege of working to ensure that America’s neighborhoods are economically strong and sustainable. As a national and international economic development expert, I have garnered the respect of my peers for the work I’ve done in economic development in some of the more vulnerable regions both at home and abroad. And yet the sad, stark reality is that, in many everyday common spaces in which I find myself like other black men - the bank, the grocery store, or driving along the highway - none of that matters. Even more importantly, many people who look like me, work hard every day and contribute to this country don’t feel they can truly answer my questions in the affirmative. “Aren’t I a man and aren’t I an American?” As an award-winning economic development, my work has always been rooted in a desire to serve and improve the lives of all people. I have been blessed throughout my life to not want for much. However, as a child of the military, I have been exposed to deplorable living conditions here in the states and abroad. This experience has shaped my world view and placed a distinct calling on my life. At present, I find myself perplexed by the conundrum that, overwhelmingly, the place that makes me proudest – my home, the United States of America – at times subjects its most vulnerable citizens to conditions that the international community deems unacceptable and downright criminal outside of our borders. We over-incarcerate and under-educate people of color. We espouse sys-
tems that are designed to keep them in places of poverty. Furthermore, a clear line of demarcation still exists between black, Latino and Native Americans and our white counterparts. Whether it’s infant mortality rates in Detroit, police brutality in Chicago, or educational achievement in California, race is still one of the most significant indicators of quality of life. Don’t believe me? When was the last time a white man had to have “the talk” with his son or daughter about how to be overly docile in chance police encounters to ensure their safety? Do the rights afforded under the 2nd Amendment apply to black and brown people? Is equal access to the full breadth and beauty of the freedoms outlined to pursue life, liberty and happiness a real thing? While some would like to gloss over the recent murders of Black women and men at the hands of those who are employed to protect and serve, the reality is we have a systemic problem that must be addressed. Of even greater concern to me is a feeling that we as black Americans have been treated as second-class citizens for so long that we have become accustomed to and accepting of unequal treatment. Even blacks who have achieved the American dream in social and economic status understand that they must bow to the engrained notions of white superiority and learn to be content with merely being allowed in the room or included in the dialogue, or risk their success easily being stripped away. How dare we question or challenge anything with the same indignation as our white counterparts or expect equal pay, treatment, or respect? We understand white superiority and her companion, privilege, to be a fait accompli that cannot be combatted. We have accepted the truths that the freedoms afforded to other Americans do not necessarily apply to us. We have become used to birthing our children, watching them be snatched up by one indignity or the other, mourning and having absolutely no one but our Heavenly Father to hear that cry. We have accepted the truths that the freedoms afforded to other Americans do not necessarily apply to us. I unconditionally reject this current reality with the truth that I am an American and should not need to be “included”, have to skirt around the edges or soft-pedal my opinions to mollify white guilt or bolster ideals of white supremacy, but rather, I should have all the rights, privileges, and belonging as the extension of my American birthright. America, why don’t you love me and those like me? Americans remain the most innovative and in many cases righteous communities in the world; there are very few problems Americans cannot solve if they really want to. Americans possess a strong sense of right and wrong and champion a broad array of causes ranging from protecting the environment and animals to pushing for greater human rights in remote parts of Asia and Latin America, yet the civil rights injustices at home remain largely ignored or denied. The Christian right remains silent or falls on the wrong side of many of these conversations while the liberal left often wraps this discourse in paternalistic patronizing ideology or policy. The apathy of everyday Americans to openly engage in a thoughtful process to confront our inherent racism and recognize the full humanity of all Americans is a deep source of pain for many. On nearly every measure of well-being, black Americans lag significantly behind the rest of the population. All populations can count some amongst their ranks that lack drive, ambition and merit. However, most people want to achieve, establish a foundation for their children to be better off than they are, and live in a safe and clean community. Sadly, this notion seems out of reach for black communities and other communities of color, and it’s impossible to divorce race from our shared understanding of well-being if we truly want to make things better. Lack of purposeful investment in neighborhoods, concentrations of poverty in urban communities, incarceration, limited educational resources, and disproportionate health outcomes all highlight race as a critical factor. In select cases, the truly fortunate and in some cases talented can push beyond these barriers. However, until the mass of black Americans can achieve the same quality of life and feel the same measure of safety as average white Americans, the concept of America isn’t completely honest … and the answer to the question of my completeness as a man and American in these United States will remain elusive.
community
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
August 17-23, 2016
Page B-5
New child support option, PayNearMe helps dads The Wayne County Friend of the Court is pleased to announce the launch of PayNearMe, a new payment option for parents to pay their child support with cash at any 7-Eleven or Family Dollar store. That’s more than 17,000 trusted payment locations nationwide.
sent to your phone or to print.
Six simple steps to make a cash payment
a. Last 4 digits of Social Security number
Customers must pay a $1.99 convenience fee and PayNearMe payments can take up to three business days to post. In addition, these payments are routed through MiSDU, the Michigan State Disbursement Unit, and will be distributed according to federal rules and regulations regarding child support payments. The payments will not be docket or case specific.
b. Your MiSDU docket number (yyyy-xxxxxx). This is the 10 digit case number assigned to your case. It starts with a four digit year, and then has six digits after that.
Get started and learn more about payments at www.misdu.com. For questions related to your child support case, visit www.michigan.gov/michildsupport or call (313) 224-5300.
1. Visit the www.misdu. com website. 2. Select the “Make a Cash Payment” option.
Metro Detroiters show up strong to Mobile Career Rally at Goodwill Detroit Michigan Chronicle Reports
A mobile rally to attract metro Detroiters to sign up for a no-cost training initiative called “Pathways to Jobs in Detroit: Connecting Disconnected Youth and Adults to Manufacturing Careers” was held at Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit headquarters at 3111 Grand River Ave. The event was a collaboration between Lightweight Innovations For Tomorrow (LIFT), Good-
will Industries of Greater Detroit, Focus: HOPE and TechShop Detroit.
included manufacturing and robotics demonstrations and other activities.
Recently launched, Pathways to Jobs aims to inspire interest in regional manufacturing career opportunities by providing technical training, work readiness preparation and upskilling.
Job postings in Michigan for advanced manufacturing workers, including skilled trades workers and engineers, reached an all-time high in 2015, with nearly 119,000 jobs posted.
Attendees were able to explore Grand Rapids Community College’s and TechShop’s mobile technology trailers, which
With support from LIFT, Detroit partner organizations have developed no-cost, enhanced training programs that
will help prepare the workforce necessary to fill the existing skills gap for area manufacturers while also providing pathways to good jobs for regional youth and adults. Goodwill Detroit and Focus: HOPE will provide the work readiness preparation and training, including tech-oriented curriculum, soft skills training, work experience, placement assistance, and financial and computer literacy.
3. Enter requested identifying information on the PayNearMe website. You will be required to provide:
5. Choose from the list of Family Dollar or 7-Eleven payment locations closest to you. 6. Visit the store and provide both the payment code and cash to the cashier.
c. First name d. Last name e. Email or phone to receive payment confirmation 4. Select whether you want the payment code
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community
August 17-23, 2016
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
COLLEAGUE SPOTLIGHT
COMERICA IN THE COMMUNITY
Comerica Charitable Foundation hosts Summer in the City youth for Maker Faire Detroit VIP sneak peek
Summer in the City counselor Medha Sripada of Northville helps five-year old camper Kylie build a balsa wood race car, one of the special experiences Summer in the City campers enjoyed at the 2016 Maker Faire Detroit preview.
The Comerica Charitable Foundation teamed up with The Henry Ford to invite Detroit youth from Summer in the City’s K-5 program for a sneak preview experience at Maker Faire Detroit before it opened to the public. During the VIP Maker Faire Detroit experience, students were exposed to inventions and activities that applied science, technology, math and engineering to inspire them to become inventors.
Justin, 11, created a customized leather bracelet with 2016 maker Sarah Hodson and Making Leather Work.
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Antoinette Frost
Reflecting on her 20-year career with Comerica Bank, Antoinette Frost is proud of the advancements and achievements she has earned to get where she is today. She began her journey with Comerica Bank as a teller and worked her way towards being a retail personal banker. She then migrated to commercial loans, an area where she has contributed her skills for the past 15 years. She started at entry level as a loan processor and within four years, she quickly advanced to a loan processor III. “Getting to where I am now took a lot of hard work, dedication and following the advice of my mentors,” said Frost. “I look around me and take bits and pieces from the people I work with. Throughout my career I’ve been surrounded by so many smart and influential people who I’ve learned so much from.” In her current role as senior data validation analyst, data validation of commercial loans for Comerica Bank, Frost is responsible for ensuring all information is entered Antoinette Frost accurately into the loan system and all of the details are accounted for before a commercial loan is issued. Frost works to maintain relationships with other support departments and encourages collaboration in order to meet internal and external deadlines and ensure the best quality service is being provided to the customer. Frost is an avid Comerica Cares volunteer. She volunteers for many organizations like Forgotten Harvest, the Michigan Parkinson Foundation, Gleaners Community Food Bank, among others. If she had to pinpoint one organization that stole her heart from the beginning, it would be The Parade Company.
Ten-year old Carrington enjoyed learning about computer coding through the AccelerateKid Comerica Cares volunteers helped take keepsake photos software available for kids to try at the 2016 of the Summer in the City kids with the Star Wars droids Maker Faire Detroit. featured at the 2016 Maker Faire Detroit.
“I just love getting involved during the holiday season and helping paint floats for America’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in Detroit,” said Frost. “I have the opportunity to meet so many people and it’s a very happy time of year.”
Comerica Bank’s Renaissance Center office relocates Comerica Bank recently opened its new office in the Renaissance Center. The banking center is now located at 300 Renaissance Center, Suite 1313, on the first level. Comerica’s new location in the Renaissance Center features a customer service pod where banking center team members greet customers and assist with routine transactions. Night depository, self-serve security boxes and ATM services also are available.
Comerica Bank was recently named The Small Business Administration’s 2015 Diversity Lender of the Year, an award recognizing the lender providing the best support for diverse SBA program participation by historically underrepresented groups. Romy Ancog (left), lead lender relations specialist, SBA Michigan District Office, presented a plaque to Doug Adams, Comerica’s vice president of SBA lending, and Troy King (right), vice president and SBA alternate national manager. Comerica was also recognized for their achievement during the SBA Great Lakes Lenders Conference held at Motor City Casino in Detroit. Detroit Tigers’ mascot PAWS joined Hubert Wiley (left), manager of Comerica Bank’s Renaissance Center office, and Marvin Rushing, retail district manager, to celebrate the opening of Comerica Bank’s new location in the Renaissance Center.
Antoinette Frost (right) and Comerica Cares volunteers (right to left) Nicole Bell-Wade, Anna Guerra, Sandy Smith, Erica Saylor, Helena Williams, Kendra Dejaeghere and Linda Forte, spent a Saturday in late September painting floats at The Parade Company during Comerica’s National Days of Service last year. What are your hobbies outside of work? “My children are my sole focus. I have two sons Antoine and Quran. Antoine recently graduated from Specs Howard School of Media Arts and works for a local radio station. Quran, my youngest, is serving our country as an Army National Guard reservist. I couldn’t be more proud of them. My sons are my everything and they motivate me to be the best version of myself.” What do you love most about working for Comerica Bank? “Comerica is an amazing company to work for, but if I had to pick one thing, it would be the people. I’ve worked with so many people throughout my 20 years here at Comerica and I call many my close friends. They are like family to me.”
Former Detroit Red Wing Chris Chelios made a surprise appearance and signed autographs for Comerica Bank customers at a recent VIP Detroit Tigers pregame party at Cheli’s Chili Bar in Detroit. In addition to VIP parties, Comerica Bank is hosting a ticket sweepstakes through its Comerica Bank Park Perks Program. Eligible participants have until August 29 to Comerica Bank’s new Renaissance Center office visit the “VIP Tickets Sweepstakes” tab on the Comer- is located on the street level in Tower 300. ica Facebook page to enter for a chance to win a pair of tickets to a Detroit Tigers home game. Comerica recognized
How did you get to where you are now? “Staying positive and having faith is what has carried me this far. I look forward to continuing my journey, knowing I have no limits.”
For more information on how Comerica colleagues are giving back to our community, visit
www.facebook.com/ComericaCares.
as one of America's Most Admired Corporations for Supplier Diversity
Comerica Incorporated was recently recognized as one of The Minority Business News USA magazine’s Corporate 101 America's Most Admired Corporations for Supplier Diversity. The award recognizes the top companies that support minority business development through supplier diversity efforts.
Mike Cheatham, vice president and Michigan CRA After considering such factors manager for Comerica Bank, explains the difference as innovative supplier development between wants and needs to students participating in initiatives, parthe Northwest Detroit Youth Coalition’s summer proticipation with gram at Michigan Technical Academy High School. By regional minority helping students understand the reasons behind their supplier developpurchases, Cheatham hopes to inspire youth to make ment councils and more informed purchase decisions that will help boost reported spend with diverse their savings.
suppliers, MBN magazine compiles its Corporate 101 winners, a list of companies that embody next-level growth in supplier diversity.
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UNC
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As an awardee, Comerica will receive recognition in the 2016 MBN USA Volume III edition, which will premiere at the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce National Convention Oct. 9-11 in Miami, Florida.
t h ANN UA
Teresa LeFevre, vice president and supplier diversity manager for Comerica Bank, helps check in guests attending the Veteran Business Meet and Mingle. Comerica sponsored the National Veteran Business Development Council event which was held at The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago’s Detroit Branch. Representatives from the 150 service-disabled and veteran-owned businesses who attended the event had an opportunity to network with more than 20 corporations interested in supporting veteran-owned businesses and learned more about working with the Federal Reserve Bank and the financial industry to meet their goals.
"We honor the Corporate 101 for their steadfast commitment to global supplier diversity,” Don McKneely, chairman and CEO, MBN magazines, said in a statement. “The impact our Corporate 101 companies are making in the supply chain diversity arena is paving the way for diverse suppliers to realize an increase in purchasing opportunities, which will, in turn, produce more inclusive supply chains. We salute the supplier diversity teams at these companies on this well-deserved honor.”
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First Independence Bank’s new location By Alisha Dixon Detroit-based First Independence Bank moved its main branch and headquarters to 7310 Woodward Ave. in the New Center area on Monday, Aug. 15. The new branch is located in Suite 101 in the former location of the Detroit Police Department’s Central Office. Richard Zamojski, First Independence Bank president and chief operating officer, said the move will make it easier for First Independence customers to visit the bank. “One of the big issues that we’ve had downtown is that while we are centrally located in the downtown area, we don’t have access to parking. So, a lot of our customers are challenged by the issue of parking around here because not only are there no curbside spots, there are no free parking spaces in the general area,” Zamojski said.
:
promoting art, serving others By Sidnee King
D The new location will allow First Independence to become a fixture in the community it serves. “We think it’s going to be closer to our customer base because community banks tend to work with small to medium sized businesses and residents of the city. We think that area puts us more centrally located. We’ll be more accessible there,” Zamojski said. Ample parking and access to public transportation are twi of the benefits of the bank’s new location. “The location we’re moving to will have free parking for our employees, but it will also have spaces dedicated to customers near the entrance of the building. So, we’ll have free parking in a gated lot for customers and we anticipate there will be curbside parking when the M-1 Rail construction ends,” said Zamojski. First Independence Bank is a Detroit-based blackowned bank. It was founded in 1970 and is one of 28 black-owned banks in the United States. The bank’s mission is “to serve the financial needs of our community, its businesses, and its citizens. No line of financial services is beyond our charter as long as we are serving the financial needs of businesses and families in our community. The bank’s most important asset is its customers. Without customers, the bank is nothing. Our products and services are designed to meet the needs of customers, our hours are set to meet the needs of customers, and our employees are hired to meet the needs of customers.” As a community bank, First Independence not only serves the basic financial needs of its customers, but also promotes financial education as an important part of the bank’s commitment to the community.
etroit bred artist Felle has moved around the country throughout his years in the industry, but has returned to his home city to work on his biggest project yet. Seven months ago, Felle opened a new studio, in an area known as the Avenue of Fashion to focus on a product that is the perfect marriage of his two passions — art and serving others. The Celebies Toy Company is the brainchild of Felle and his business partners Granston C. Bullard and Rasheed Wallace. By combining Felle’s art expertise and Bullard’s manufacturing knowledge, the Company was able to generate a unique product line that aims to meet some of the needs of society. The company offers a line of products from Halloween costumes to cool magnets, but its star are the Super Troopers, dolls for children of service men and women over seas. Super Troopers are dolls created in the likeness of any service man or woman. The dolls can be worn as backpacks, and hold MP3 technology that plays voice recording and other audio. Children of service men and women can carry around a doll of their loved one that tells them how much they love them and reminds them to eat their veggies, just as they would if they were home. The Celebies Toy Company has taken the same fundamental design of the Super Trooper and applied it to dolls made to look like your favorite rapper, politician or even yourself. The company’s designs go in hand with its pledge to promote literacy among youth. Celebies, YuDolls and Super Troopers (all Celebies Toy Company products) have the ability to download audio of poems and stories from the companies website to be read by your favorite dolls. “Imagine Michelle Obama reading your child a poem, that’s what we want to do,” said Felle, who has been working on the Celebies and Super Troopers for nearly seven years, but became active in the art and business world long before that.
sure on GSN’s hit show “Skin Wars” in 2014, the self-taught airbrush artist has been a Titan in the art world for more than 20 years. After being introduced to airbrushing by a friend at age 14, Felle never stopped working with the medium, noting that, “I fell in love with the airbrush and never put it down.” The Detroit native has worked for himself since he was 21 and has done everything from owning a nail salon, to selling fine art, to working on stage design for high profile clients like Jay Z and Kanye West. The self-taught artist gained success by fighting to curate his talents, despite a teacher or mentor, something he plans to become now. Felle got his first taste of working with children when he was hired to paint a lunch/gym room at Highland Park Middle School. After taking notice of the dreary decoration in the room, he decided to do something about it and get the school’s students involved. Felle organized an art show and competition for students to take part
While Felle got national expo-
Chaundra Haynes: A Battery Giant franchisee fully charged for success By Donald James Special to the Chronicle
“We will put on seminars for financial literacy purposes and we’ve worked closely with the Federal Reserve here that has helped with supplying materials for education purposes. We also, from a lending point of view, do a fair amount of residential lending in the city of Detroit. So, we work with those customers to try to find solutions,” Zamojski said.
It’s virtually impossible to live anywhere and do very much in America without using batteries to power the devices we need and have learned to love in every aspect of our lives. Battery industry experts have estimated that the typical household in the United States has almost 25 different battery-operated devices, which can include smoke detectors, TV remote controls, garage door openers, alarm systems, kids’ toys, flashlights, clocks and more. Outside the house, batteries are needed to power cars, trucks, busses, boats, aircrafts, and construction apparatuses and equipment. And, of course, batteries are necessary for the every-growing usage of smartphones, laptops, iPods, MP3 players, and the list goes on. Therefore, consumers are always looking for affordable outlets from which to purchase and replace their batteries. One such place in Detroit is Battery Giant, located at 3496 Jefferson Ave., in Harbortown Plaza, just east of downtown.
First Independence has two other branches, 7020 W. Seven Mile Road in Detroit and 38880 Garfield Road in Clinton Township. For more information about First Independence Bank, visit firstindependence.com.
See FELLE Page C-2
Chaundra Haynes – Tatiana Simone photos
See HAYNES Page C-2
business
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
August 17-23, 2016
Page C-2
Mayor, Crain’s Detroit announce third annual Detroit Homecoming Event Mayor Duggan joined Crain’s Detroit, business leaders and community members to announce the third annual Detroit Homecoming event to be held September 14-16. Event organizers expect to host more than 300 expats to gather together to discuss investment opportunities in Detroit. Detroit Homecoming has to date garnered $230 million in pending investments in the city.
Haynes
From page C-1
“We carry all kinds of batteries for most needs,” said Chaundra Haynes, owner and commercial sales manager of Battery Giant, a fast-growing national company. “We sell batteries for watches, hearing aids, golf carts, motor scooters, wheelchairs, and a lot more needs. If we don’t carry a certain battery that a customer needs, we can usually order it.” Haynes became interested in owning a Battery Giant franchise after meeting the president of the company’s franchise division. The president convinced her that battery usage in Detroit and beyond was rapidly growing due to technological advancements and lifestyle changes. “I began to think how true it is that everybody uses batteries,” Haynes said. “People are not connected to the wall as much anymore, and they really do use lots of batteries. I became totally convinced that owning a Battery Giant store would be a great opportunity for me.” Haynes followed through to pursue the steps necessary to start a Battery Giant franchise, which included online training, in-store training, store set up, onsite support, and pre and post grand opening support. Today, Haynes is the first and only African American woman in the country to own a Battery Giant franchise. Nationally, Battery Giant has franchisees in 13 states, as well as stores in Puerto
Rico and Panama City, Panama (Central America). In Michigan, there are six stores, one is in Detroit. A Detroit native, Haynes, after graduating from Cass Tech High School, attended Clark Atlanta University as a political science major, before switching to earn a bachelor’s degree in journalism. While at Clark Atlanta, she wrote for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. After graduating, she worked as a journalist for the Atlanta Business Chronicle and the Owensboro Messenger and Inquirer in Kentucky. Returning to Detroit in the early 2000s, Haynes was a sales executive for Harcourt School Publishers, before becoming a Battery Giant franchisee. In October 2016, she will celebrate her second year as a Battery Giant franchise owner. “Things have gone pretty well so far,” said Haynes. “We just want people to know that we are here, and we can take care of their battery needs. I’m proud that I can offer much needed products and services to my hometown of Detroit. “Everybody in Detroit uses batteries, so I want people to know that they don’t have to go out of the city to buy batteries. I have nothing against the suburbs, but it’s great to be able to purchase things and do business with small businesses in Detroit, like Battery Giant.” Haynes takes pride in how her
employees interface with all customers, even if some customers don’t buy anything. “We are not about being pushy to pressure customers to buy,” Haynes explained. “We just want to give customers what they need, when they need it. Sometimes people will come in and walk out without batteries in their hands, maybe because it wasn’t what they needed. Often they will come back because they respected our honesty and integrity of not selling them something that they didn’t need the last time. That’s gratifying to me.” While consistently busy overseeing and growing Battery Giant, Haynes still finds time to reach out to positively impact young people in the community. She has taught Saturday entrepreneurship classes, sponsored by UAW-Ford, to middle and high school students at Northwestern High School. Her advice to the young people who take her classes, and anyone else interested in becoming an entrepreneur in any industry is, “Make sure it’s what you want. Starting, maintaining and growing a business is a lot of hard work. Make sure you learn all you can about how to run every aspect of the business. And, you must have the desire and will to succeed, because there will be ups and downs along the way.” To contact Battery Giant, call 313.656.4301.
In the past two years, Detroit Homecoming has drawn more than 300 expats back home to inspire their participation in the city’s rebirth. The payoff includes: The opening of Will Leather Goods in Mid-
town. The deal came together after William Adler, founder and CEO of the Oregon-based retailer and a native of northwest Detroit, attended the inaugural Homecoming. Rheal Capital Management, led by expat John Rhea, signed on as co-developer of 150 Brewster Wheeler apartments in Brush Park. Rhea is also a partner in the revitalization of the Fisher and Albert Kahn buildings in New Center. Wendy Hilliard, a USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame member and former U.S. national team participant, will open a gymnastics center for youth in northwest Detroit.
Felle
From page C-1
in, and raised money to give away art supplies to high achieving students. “They loved it. The look on their faces was priceless,” Felle said. Felle expressed disappointment in the lack of art education in Detroit Public Schools. “Art should be mandatory. If a child has a gift for art, then someone needs to invest in those talents. The schools definitely need to do more,” he said. In the meantime, he has taken it upon himself to invest in the talents of young artists. Felle has taken time away from working for clients across the country to work on his passion projects. In addition to the Celebie Toy Company, he is looking to open a gallery for his newest fine
art collection inspired by Detroit. Felle describes these latest endeavors as starting over, taking the opportunity to work for himself and discover fresh ways to express his perspectives. “I come from all over the place,” he said. “I’ve been conditioned to doing work for customers for so long that it’s like a vacation when I get an opportunity to paint something directly from me.” Establishing a startup, mentoring young artists, and opening a new gallery may seem to be unrelated, but Felle disagrees because he finds a common thread in all he does, identifying these things as “all art to me.” To catch up with Felle, visit Facebook.com/ BodyPaintingByFelle.
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August 17-23, 2016
Page C-3
Metropolitan Hotel partners acquire the Metropolitan Building Moving forward with redevelopment as a Starwood Element Hotel Metropolitan Hotel Partners, a joint venture between Detroit-based Means Group and Roxbury Group, announced the acquisition of The Metropolitan Building from the Downtown Development Authority. This is a significant step in the development plan to renovate the Weston and Ellington-designed building, completed in 1925, into Starwood’s eco-friendly, extended-stay Element hotel brand, planned for completion in summer 2018. “The redevelopment of the Metropolitan Building serves an important role downtown’s revitalization and we are thankful to our partners for helping make it happen through their commitment and collaboration,” said Eric Means, Means Group CEO. “Not only are we activating a building that has sat vacant for 40 years, we are filling a critical gap in the city’s hotel market by introducing Michigan’s first Starwood’s Element hotel brand, offering a high-quality, extended stay option in Detroit.” The $32-million redevelopment of the Element Detroit at the Metropolitan Building is supported by financing from Invest Detroit and Develop Michigan, Inc., and will be utilizing new market tax credits, historic tax credits and incentive support from the State of Michigan’s Community Revitalization Program. Moddie Turay, executive vice president of the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, said, “We are excited to have this beautiful building restored and once again contribute to the vitality of the city. The Means Group and the Roxbury
Land of Opportunity. Own your own home. Start here:
BuildingDetroit.org Group are committed to doing a world class project and I look forward to opening day.” Building on the success of the recently opened Aloft Detroit at the David Whitney, the Metropolitan Partners’ adaptive reuse of the 100,000-sqaure-foot, 14-story neo-gothic Element at the Metropolitan Building will include the restoration of the hotel’s exterior and a top-to-bottom renovation of the interior, while preserving elements of the Metropolitan Building’s original ornate lobby and mezzanine. The building will have 110 one-and-two-bedroom extended stay Element hotel rooms, 2,000 square feet of state-ofthe-art meeting space on the second floor mezzanine level, approximately
7,000 square feet of retail on the ground floor and lower level, and an outdoor patio on the 11th floor rear rooftop.
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About Metropolitan Hotel Partners, LLC Metropolitan Hotel Partners is a joint venture between the Means Group and Roxbury Group, both Detroit-based developers with significant experience in residential, commercial and hospitality development, construction and management. About Means Group Inc. Means Group Inc. is a Detroit-based creative land solutions company with over 40 years of combined experience. With a main focus on the adaptive reuse of buildings and over one millionT:10” square feet of property development and manage-S:9.5” ment experience.
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Page C-4 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • August 17-23, 2016
business By James Clingman (NNPA News Wire Columnist)
“There are [Blacks] who are willing to worship the pyramids of 4,000 years ago, but will not build pyramids in the present so their children may see what they left behind as well. We have a leadership who rallies the people to look at past glories, but leave their children neglected, who will make great analytical and oratorical dissertations on the inadequacies of Eurocentric education and yet will not contribute one penny of their money or their time to the construction of their own schools.” — Dr. Amos Wilson, Afrikan Centered Consciousness versus the New World Order. Montoya Smith, host of the Atlanta talk show, “Mental Dialogue,” asked, “Can we rebuild ‘Black Wall Street?’” “No, really,” he added, recognizing the depth of his question and assuring folks he was not kidding or just being rhetorical. So, what was Black Wall Street? Most of what I have learned about it was obtained from a book by John Sibley Butler titled, “Entrepreneurship and Self-Help Among Black Americans, A Reconsideration of Race and Economics,” which contains an exhaustive section on Tulsa, Oklahoma’s history and a detailed account of what took place
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
August 17-23, 2016
Can We Rebuild Black Wall Street?
in its Greenwood District. Some of the information below comes from Dr. Butler’s book. I also learned from face to face conversations with six of the survivors of the Tulsa Riot. Black Wall Street was burned to the ground in 1921 by a White mob. The Greenwood District, located in the northern section of Tulsa, Oklahoma, was once called “Negro Wall Street,” and “Little Africa.” It was home to hundreds of Black owned businesses and sat on valuable land desired by White oil speculators, who even tried to buy parcels of that land from Blacks for ten cents on the dollar immediately following the Tulsa riot. Fortunately and wisely, Blacks refused to sell. Despite hundreds of Black lives lost in the riot and all of Greenwood’s businesses destroyed, the story of that economic enclave during the ensuing seventeen years was one of triumph over tragedy. By 1923, as a result of Blacks pooling their money to capitalize new enterprises, the Black business district was even larger than before, and Greenwood was completely restored by Black people by 1938. Ultimately, urban renewal and integration, which allowed Blacks to shop at non-Black stores, led to the demise of “Black Wall Street.” To Amos Wilson’s
point, Greenwood was a pyramid built by Blacks in the early 1900’s. Instead of looking back and merely reveling in the successes of Mound Bayou, Mississippi, and other enclaves that came before them, Black people in Greenwood built upon those legacies. Thus, my answer to the question posed by Montoya Smith, (Can we rebuild Black Wall Street?) was and is an emphatic and unequivocal, “Yes!” My answer to that question is based on the fact that we have done it before under far worse circumstances than we are under today. But as I listened to the other guest on Montoya’s show, Mr. Jay West, entrepreneur and president of the Lithonia Small Business and Merchants Association located on the outskirts of Atlanta, Georgia, I became even more convinced. Immediately impressed by Mr. West and the work his group is doing in a city that is approximately 85 percent Black, I sought him out to
learn more. Jay West understands and promotes local business support. “I do 95 percent of my shopping right here in Lithonia,” West said, “because I know that one dollar spent here has the multiplier effect of three dollars, as our businesses support one another.” West is absolutely correct, and the Lithonia merchants association will benefit collectively and individually from circulating their dollars. They will grow their businesses and create more jobs. This nascent organization can be the model from which new Black Wall Streets can be built across this nation. It is on track to encourage more entrepreneurship and demonstrate the power of a cohesive, mutually supportive, self-directed, and economically empowered network of conscious business owners and consumers who are committed to growth and sustainability. True partnerships between educated consumers and business professionals in Black
economic enclaves comprise the basis for real power in the marketplace, i.e. collective purchasing programs and affinity groups, revolving loan funds, business equity funds, and financial leverage to stimulate future growth. Lithonia is in that space right now, and there is plenty of room for more cities and segments within those cities to do the same. To draw the discussion closer to home in Atlanta: “Can Sweet Auburn be sweet again?”
Page C-5
left 25 Black men dead, the Sweet Auburn neighborhood can also be restored, and with leaders like Jay West and others in Atlanta, I am confident that we will build more pyramids in the Black community.
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Reflections By Steve Holsey
Should Drake be proud? There is much positive to be said about people embarking on new ventures, no matter their age. But there is something “uncomfortable” about Drake’s father, Dennis Graham, 60, suddenly pursuing a singing career. At one time he was a professional drummer. What throws a monkey wrench in the elder Graham’s plans, and potentially embarrassing for Drake, is the fact that Dad’s singing is weak. To hear just how weak, go to YouTube and listen to Dennis Graham live on stage singing Tyrone Davis’ 1968 No. 1 hit, “Can I Change My Mind?”
Dennis Graham and Drake Graham Like son, like father? Only if there is substantial talent to back it up. Dennis Graham sounds better on his single, “Kinda Crazy,” but wonders can be worked in the studio. Right now he is working on his debut album. SOME SAY that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but others maintain that imitation is the flattest form of sincerity. Maybe the truth is somewhere in between. In any event, many find it rather amusing that the raunchy rapper Snoop Dogg chose to call his new album “Coolaid.” “I was listening to Beyoncé’s ‘Lemonade’ and it was bangin’,” he said. “I Snoop Dogg wasn’t trying to answer her. I was just trying to put some flavor in the game.” Will Smith is still airing his opinions on Donald Trump, who most would agree is the most undesirable, and dangerous, presidential candidate in the history of the United States. “As painful as it is to hear Donald Trump talk, I think it’s good,” he said. “We get to know who people are and now we get to cleanse it out of our country.” If you happen to be in the market for a mansion, Rihanna’s is up for sale. Located in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, the asking price is a mere $14.5 million.
If we build it, they will come Despite major support from city leaders and others, Lamont Robinson still can’t attract investment to build Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame By Keith A. Owens Senior Editor
Yes, Lamont Robinson is on a mission, but understand that Robinson takes his mission a bit more seriously than most. Understand that Robinson is the sort who simply will not accept the word “no” for an answer, not when it comes to his longtime dream of building a Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame in Detroit. And Robinson has been encountering more than his fair share of “no” when seeking partners willing to invest in the development of his proposal. Which is strange, considering the strong vocal support Robinson has received in recent years — in writing — from a number of local civic heavyweights, including Congressman John Conyers, Mayor Mike Duggan, former Deputy Mayor Ike McKinnon, Michael Morris of Cana Development, and former Councilwoman and Motown recording star Martha Reeves. To name a few. All of them have been willing to offer strong support and to congratulate Robinson’s desire to locate the facility in Detroit, emphasizing how much they believe that such a project could benefit the city’s redevelopment efforts. In a letter dated January 9, 2015, Mayor Duggan writes: “A place such as the R&B Music Hall of Fame would provide a great platform to express our appreciation to those that helped to shape an entire genre of music. As the proud home of various art museums and institutions, this would be an awesome addition to our great city.” A little over one year later, on April 5, Deputy Mayor Ike McKinnon wrote: “I am writing in support of the proposed development of the official Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame Museum project coming to the city of Detroit. … We are also happy that the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be an annual event that will be held in the city of Detroit.” On November 1, 2014, Congressman John Conyers writes: “I write in support of the proposed development of the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame Museum Project in Detroit, Michigan. … I am excited about the
Patti LaBelle was joined on stage by Eric Pointer (in red cap). ERIC POINTER, a longtime reader of this column, went to see Patti LaBelle when she performed recently at River Days. At one point, she asked for two men to join her on stage to help her sing “Lady Marmalade.” His Aunt Andrea and another lady coaxed Pointer into volunteering and he was one of the two LaBelle chose. “This was a once in a lifetime experience,” said Pointer. “The audience went crazy. Patti thanked us and gave us hugs. I had a great time and I’m still in disbelief.” R. Kelly is raising some eyebrows because he is 49 years old and his new girlfriend, Halle Calhoun, is only 19. Super actress Angela Bassett — she has never been less than fantastic in every movie — is hyped about her new skin-care line, developed with Dr. Barbara Sturn, called Darker Skin Tones. Said Bassette, who joins Iman, Rihanna and others in this type of endeavor: “I like women to be pleased when they look in the mirror, to feel good about themselves and their complexion.” There is a new rapper from Toronto, Canada, whose stage name, believe or not, is Tasha the Amazon. In the jazz realm, one of the people who have to be admired most is pianist Ramsey Lewis who has been doing his thing since the mid-1950s and is still
See Reflections Page D-2
See Hall of Fame Page D-2
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343 074 693 720 154 127 803 6250 2705 861 27 31 43 45 57 20 YOUR AD Hall of Fame opportunity to enrich the city of Detroit and all residents in Southeast Michigan.” On July 10, 2014, Martha Reeves said: “I am proud and delighted to know that you will locate the official Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame in the historical city of Detroit, Michigan, the home of Motown artists. We need your Hall of Fame to properly define the lives of the many famous artists who have gone on to heaven, and report the ones who carry on the traditional beats and sounds of our ancestors who excelled and survived with God’s gift of music.” And, finally, Michael Morris from Cana Development wrote this on October 14, 2014: “As you know, the Ilitch family and their companies have made a significant long-term investment and commitment to Detroit. We are in the midst of an urban renaissance, which will connect key entertainment and sports facilities in Detroit, while acting (as) an anchor for the revitalization of (the) city. "We are in complete agreement that the official Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame Museum belongs in Detroit. The history of R&B and its direct connection to both Motown (Hitsville, USA) and Detroit is vitally important to the fabric of music in the United States today.” But despite all this support, something always seems to mysteriously get in the way of any final deal. Although Robinson cannot say for certain, he believes strongly — and has been told on more than one occasion — that no one wants to invest in something that could potentially steal the light from Motown’s glory. Robinson said he doesn’t understand why there can’t be room enough for both. Neither does Mary Wilson (yes, that Mary Wilson), former member of Motown super group the Supremes. “It's two different things. Rhythm and blues encompasses all artists. All labels. The Motown Museum is just the Motown Museum,” said Wilson, who was quick to add that she obviously is supportive of Motown
From page D-1 where she has her musical roots. But Wilson's support of Motown does not conflict with her support of a facility dedicated to Rhythm and Blues because it “encompasses all the record companies,” not just Motown. Not only is Robinson convinced that “if you build it, they will come” (to lift an overused popular phrase from the hit movie “Field of Dreams), he is equally convinced that Detroit is the only sensible, logical location for such a museum. Although Robinson says he has entertained enthusiastic offers from a number of other places, including Philadelphia and Mississippi, it is Detroit that is known around the world as the music capital. Motown is certainly a big reason for that, but Detroit is also the home of innumerable jazz and blues greats, gospel greats, rock and roll greats, and the home of techno. “That they want to do it in Detroit is really quite a tribute because Detroit has always been a musical town. I mean, I grew up in the 50s and 60s, and music was everywhere,” said Wilson. “We had the Flame Show Bar, we had Hastings Street, Baker’s. Every major black artist, they all came here. Then we come up to Motown. Detroit has always been a big contribution to rhythm and blues and I think it’s very fitting. In Cleveland, you have the Rock and Roll Music Hall of Fame, which is cool. Now in Detroit, Motown, you have the Rhythm and Blues. I think it's a perfect fit.” So that’s why Detroit. And to do the deal, Robinson estimates the cost to be somewhere in the neighborhood of $15 million, a bit more than one-tenth the cost of the Rock and Roll Music Hall of Fame, which was built for $100 million. As for space, Robinson is looking for a location that would cover about 30,000 feet. The Rock and Roll Hall is about 150,000 square feet. “The African Americans here are asking, ‘Are we gonna have something downtown?’ We know the arena is coming. We know that a lot of new things are
coming, and we applaud all that, but why can’t we get this piece here? This Rhythm and Blues Hall of Fame? We don’t want it to go to Philly. We don’t want it to go to Memphis. We don’t want it to go to Atlanta. We want it to go right here in Detroit. “This museum is gonna tell the story of the chitlin’ circuit, the Apollo Theater, the Howard Theater, the Uptown Theater. We’re gonna tell the complete story. … To be able to see more than just the Motown artists, where you can see a James Brown, a Prince, Jerry Butler, Gene Chandler, all the stuff from Stax.” The first induction ceremony was held in Robinson’s hometown of Cleveland in 2013. Since then, he has held a ceremony every year, including two in 2015. Robinson moved with his wife to Detroit eight months ago. This year’s ceremony will be held on Sunday, August 21, at Dearborn’s Michael A. Guido Theater, part of the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center. “Our tickets are $25 to $100 because I want the everyday person to be able to come,” he said, adding that he originally wanted the ceremony to be held in Detroit, but for various reasons was not able to make that happen. Remarkably, the event still has no sponsors. “Some of the people we induct would never get inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The Delfonics aren’t in there. The Dramatics are not in there. The Chi-Lites are not in there. We can go on and on. The Stylistics. Barbara Mason. All of these people will probably never be inducted. And then when you talk about people like the Mad Lads, Sly, Slick and Wicked, they probably would never get in. “This is not about hit records, it’s not about (fame). It’s about the time you put into the fabric of rhythm and blues music. If you put 30, 40 years in, you need to be considered in being inducted. That’s the difference between us and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. “Mary Wells. If I don’t induct her, she’s not gonna get inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Listen, the Marvel-
Reflections
From page D-1
going strong. He recently performed at Chene Park. It’s kind of hard to believe that Lewis turned 81 in May. He has recorded well over 70 albums, five of which were certified Gold. Lewis is a pioneer of contemporary jazz and in the 1960s took more than a little flak from jazz purists. Among his greatest commercial successes were the album “Sun Goddess” and the singles “The ‘In’ Crowd” and “Wade in the Water.” He is a three-time Grammy winner. BETCHA DIDN’T KNOW…that Chubby Checker’s iconic hit “The Twist” was originally recorded by Detroit’s own Hank Ballard & the Midnighters. MEMORIES: “I’m in Love” (Evelyn “Champagne” King), “When She Was My Girl” (the Four Tops), “Give it to Me
Ramsey Lewis at Chene Park. — Monica Morgan photo Baby” (Rick James), “Rescue Me” (Fontella Bass), “I Feel for You” (Chaka Khan), “Missing You” (Diana Ross), “I Feel a Song (In My Heart)” (Gladys Knight & the Pips), “Maybe Tomorrow” (the Jackson 5), “Poison Ivy” (the Coasters), “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine” (Lou Rawls).
Gullick, Rogers Foster, Marva Stafford, Donnie Simpson, Mark McMorris and Myron Wahls, Jr.
BLESSINGS brey Wright, Wright, Michael son, Herb Boyd,
Steve Holsey can be reached at svh517@aol. com and PO Box 02843, Detroit, MI 48202.
to AuAudrey HenderYvonne
WORDS OF THE WEEK, from Stevie Wonder: “Ability may get you to the top, but it takes character to keep you there.”
Let the music play!
ettes were on the list for the past 10 years. Heavy promotion to get inducted. For each year, in December before Christmas, we found out they’re not getting in. We inducted them in the class of 2013, the inaugural class. Edwin Starr, he died a (disappointed) man because he did not get into the Hall of Fame. Thank God Bobby Womack did see it. Got in the last three or four years of his life. “It hurts me so bad to see some of these people who have number one hits, and sewage is backed up in their house, or don’t have teeth in their mouth. There was a group eating out of garbage cans up in Philadelphia who had number one hits. Some of these people are living horrible lives, but have big hits and are known all around the world. But for them not to be able to have a Hall of Fame where they can’t show their accomplishments? That’s what we want to do. And it should be in Detroit.” This year’s Rhythm and Blues Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held on Sunday, August 21, at Dearborn’s Michael A. Guido Theater, 15801 Michigan Avenue. Showtime is 7 p.m. Tickets begin at $25.
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DETROIT EMPLOYMENT SOLUTIONS CORPORATION A Michigan Works! Agency, in cooperation with the MAYOR’S WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARD (MWDB)
A private ceremony was arranged for Christine Ann McDuffie (née Martin) who passed away peacefully on Aug. 9, 2016. Her beautiful memory will be cherished by family members and all others who knew and loved her. Christine Ann McDuffie was the mother of Carron Jones (Philip) and Daphne Tucker (Rennard, MD); proud grandmother of Christina and Maria Tucker; sister of Barbara Richardson (Willie) and the late Riley Martin III and Theodore Martin; and the aunt of Sabrina, Dorian, Monet, Bettina and Melisa. Her memory is also cherished by her extended family and friends.
Mrs. McDuffie is the former spouse of William McDuffie. Her family appreciates the compassionate care provided by the Botsford Continuing Care nursing staff, especially Judy, Patrice, Candace, Elizabeth, Olivia, Cherice, Kim and Tavia. Also, thank you to the Beaumont Hospital Farmington Hills ICU staff, especially Daryl, Brandon, Al, Cathy and Rev. Kurt for making Mrs. McDuffie’s transition peaceful and dignified. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making donations in the name of Christine Ann McDuffie to the Michigan Humane Society.
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BORN GIFTED READER The 7th Daughter without asking you a single word. I will tell you what you want to know. Tell your present, past and future. Tell you who your friends and enemies are. Why you’re so unlucky. If your loved one is true or false.I will advise you all problems of life, such as love, marriage, business and health, etc. Why suffer, you can be free from all troubles. I guarantee Sucess where others failed. I am superior to any other reader you have seen. Don’t let distance keep you away from Health and Happiness. Hrs. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Daily and Sunday.
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Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Goal for Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA) FY2017-19 Proposed DBE Program overall goal with 12% goal for Airport Improvement Program Funded Projects. Available for inspection M-F 8-4:30 p.m. WCAA -Detroit Metro Airport 1 L.C. Smith Bldg. – Mezz Detroit, MI 48242 Att: Peter Hathaway (WCAA-1)
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR FOOD ASSISTANCE EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING (FAE&T) PROGRAM SERVICE PROVIDERS The Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (DESC), a Michigan Works! Agency, is seeking proposals from qualified suppliers to provide the Food Assistance Employment and Training (FAE&T) program to Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) who are receiving food stamp benefits. Proposals will only be accepted from those firms or individuals demonstrating a minimum of three (3) years of experience providing the services requested in this RFP for projects of similar scope and size. DESC expects to award two (2) contracts for the services described in this RFP. The contract period for this solicitation is from October 1, 2016 to September 30, 2017; the contract may be extended for up to two, one-year periods. All Bid Packages for this RFP will be sent via email only. Bid packages will not be available for hardcopy pickup and will not be mailed by U.S. mail. Requests for the RFP package may be emailed to DESC at descprocurement@detempsol.org. In order to receive an RFP package, qualified vendors must submit the following information via email: company name, address, office phone number, fax number, contact person’s name, title, and valid email address. Sealed bids must be received at DESC, 440 East Congress – 4th Floor, Detroit, Michigan 48226, no later than August 31, 2016 at 3:00 P.M. A Public Recording is scheduled for August 31, 2016, 3:45 P.M. at the above-mentioned address. The bids will not be available for viewing. Each vendor is responsible for ensuring that its bid is received by DESC on a timely basis. Late bids will not be accepted. Mayor’s Workforce Development Board, Cynthia J. Pasky, Co-Chairperson David E. Meador, Co-Chairperson Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation Board, Laura A. Hughes, Chairperson
HELP WANTED U.S. District Court Eastern District of Michigan Financial Specialist I Vacancy Announcement at http://www.mied.uscourts.gov.
Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation, Jose Reyes, Interim President/Chief Executive Officer
Located in Detroit, the employee performs and coordinates administrative, technical and professional work related to the financial and accounting activities of the Court. EOE WWW.MICHIGANCHRONICLE.COM
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Public Participation Notice *Revised Goal*
PUBLIC NOTICE In accordance with the requirement of the U.S. Department of Transportation set forth in 49 CFR Part 26, notice is hereby given that the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) has established an overall revised goal of 1.5% for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation in contracting opportunities on federally-assisted contracts during Federal Fiscal Year 2016 and 2017. The proposed goal and methodology will be available for review between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday at the address listed below for (30) days following the date of this notice. The Detroit Department of Transportation will accept comments on the goal for (45) days from the date of this notice. Please address all comments to:
Sheila Udeozor Office of Contract Compliance Detroit Department of Transportation 1301 East Warren Detroit, Michigan 48207 (313) 833-7695 E-mail:udeozors@detroitmi.gov
Month of August is National Immunization Awareness Month
IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR PARTNERSHIP.ACCOUNTABILITY.TRAINING.HOPE. (PATH) PROGRAM SERVICE PROVIDERS The Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (DESC), a Michigan Works! Agency, is seeking proposals from qualified suppliers to provide the Partnership.Accountability.Training.Hope. (PATH) Program to Family Independence Program (FIP) applicants and recipients. Proposals will only be accepted from those firms or individuals demonstrating a minimum of three (3) years of experience providing the services requested in this RFP for projects of similar scope and size. DESC expects to award seven (7) contracts for the services described in this RFP. The contract period for this solicitation is from October 1, 2016 to September 30, 2017; the contract may be extended for up to two, one-year periods. All Bid Packages for this RFP will be sent via email only. Bid packages will not be available for hardcopy pickup and will not be mailed by U.S. mail. Requests for the RFP package may be emailed to DESC at descprocurement@detempsol.org. In order to receive an RFP package, qualified vendors must submit the following information via email: company name, address, office phone number, fax number, contact person’s name, title, and valid email address. Sealed bids must be received at DESC, 440 East Congress – 4th Floor, Detroit, Michigan 48226, no later than August 31, 2016 at 3:00 P.M. A Public Recording is scheduled for August 31, 2016, 3:30 P.M. at the above-mentioned address. The bids will not be available for viewing. Each vendor is responsible for ensuring that its bid is received by DESC on a timely basis. Late bids will not be accepted. Mayor’s Workforce Development Board, Cynthia J. Pasky, Co-Chairperson David E. Meador, Co-Chairperson Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation Board, Laura A. Hughes, Chairperson Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation, Jose Reyes, Interim President/Chief Executive Officer
IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
Seeking
CUSTODIAN I/ FACILITIES AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Campus Cleaning Department
Perform cleaning activities and maintain assigned areas in various campus classroom and office buildings and on an emergency basis, perform Grounds related tasks. High school graduation or an equivalent combination of education and experience, ability to use and/ or mix various cleaning chemicals, perform physically active work, requires frequent lifting of up to 60 lbs., may work in various weather conditions with extremes heat & cold, also may require a MI driver’s license acceptable to the University’s insurance carrier. Salary is $10.57 per hour probationary, $10.82 per hour after 90 days. 2nd Shift - Full time position working: Monday-Thursday: 2:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. – Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. See online postings for additional position requirements. Must apply on line to: https://jobs.oakland.edu Seeking
The above notice is posted on DDOT’s website at: www.RideDetroitTransit.com DETROIT EMPLOYMENT SOLUTIONS CORPORATION A Michigan Works! Agency, in cooperation with the MAYOR’S WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARD (MWDB)
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED Seeking
TRANSFER ARTICULATION SPECIALIST AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY
Office of the Registrar
Part of a team responsible for transfer credit evaluation functions. The successful candidate will develop and maintain community college transfer guides, evaluate learning for transfer credit, establish course equivalencies, manage transfer credit evaluations and perform transfer credit evaluations for prospective students. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience. Minimum 2 years of experience in transfer credit evaluation and/ or student advising or related higher education experience. Refer to online posting for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by August 25, 2016. Must apply on line to: https://jobs.oakland.edu
Seeking
ACADEMIC ADVISER AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY First Year Advising Center
The mission of the First Year Center is to reach out to all incoming students. The Adviser will manage a caseload of students and assist them in all facets of academic planning and transition to college life. Also serve as a liaison to a professional school or College of Arts and Sciences to insure effective communication in the interest of student progress and engagement. Minimum Qualifications: Master’s Degree in Education or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Two years experience in an educational setting. Demonstrated skill in working with students to achieve educational goals. Salary is commensurate with education and experience. Refer to online posting for additional requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by August 26, 2016. Must apply on line to: https://jobs.oakland.edu
ASSISTANT WOMEN’S BASKETBALL COACH AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY
Athletics Administration
Assist the Head Coach and Basketball Program with recruiting, coaching, scheduling, NCAA compliance and other duties as assigned by the Head Coach or designee. Will perform all duties in a manner consistent with NCAA, League and University rules, regulations, ordinances, policies, procedures and guidelines. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience coordinating academics and mentoring students. This is a full time, individual contract position, with evening and weekend hours required. Salary commensurate with experience. See online posting for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by August 24, 2106. Must apply on line to: https://jobs.oakland.edu Seeking
POLICE DISPATCHER AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Oakland University Police Department
The 24 hour OUPD dispatch center is responsible for dispatching police, fire and emergency medical response to the public. Will assist the public by handling walk up lobby traffic, answering phones, dispatching police to service calls and monitoring fire alarms, B&E alarms, and CCTV cameras throughout campus. Minimum Qualifications: Graduate from high school or equivalent combination of education and experience. A minimum of two years responsible work experience. Possess voice and speech characteristics (e.g. tone and diction) and language communication skills suitable for telephone and radio operations. Ability to work various shifts. Ability to use computer systems, multi task, prioritize emergency situations and remain calm under stressful conditions. Salary is $16.71 per hour – start rate. See online posting for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by August 24, 2016. Must apply on line to: https://jobs.oakland.edu
WWW.MICHIGANCHRONICLE.COM
Page D-4
HELP WANTED DSP Firmware Engineer Visteon Corporation is seeking a DSP Firmware Engineer in Van Buren Twp., MI, to function in a team of Digital Signal Processing (DSP) professionals developing core technology and applications for various DSP platforms and perform software tasks throughout the entire software lifecycle, among other duties. Bachelor’s degree in electronic engineering, electronic and communication engineering, or computer science and four years of experience in the job offered or related embedded software occupation. For confidential consideration, please apply online at www.visteon.com/careers/. Please respond to job Requisition Number 16-0061. EOE. !
PEDIATRIC HOSPITALIST UNIVERSITY PEDIATRICIANS seeks a PEDIATRIC HOSPITALIST to work in Detroit, MI, to provide hospital-based pediatric patient care. Diagnose & treat illness, disease, & injury. Prescribe medication & consult w/subspecialists as required. Must have a medical doctor degree or foreign academic equivalence, have completed a 3-year residency in pediatrics & have or be eligible for a State of MI physician license. Applicants submit resumes by mail to: HR Director, University Pediatricians 4201 St Antoine, Suite 6D Mailbox 244 Detroit MI 48201
PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGIST University Pediatricians seeks a Pediatric Endocrinologist to work in Detroit, MI. Will evaluate & treat pediatric patients (inpatient & outpatient) w/endocrine disorders. Take call & round & cover inpatient consults. Must have a Medical Degree or foreign academic equivalent. Must be Board Certified in Pediatrics & have completed 36 months of Fellowship in Pediatric Endocrinology. Must have or be eligible for a Physician License in State of MI. Applicants submit resumes to: HR Director, University Pediatricians 4201 St. Antoine, Suite 6D Mailbox 244 Detroit, MI 48201 or fax (313)966-6121 Seeking
OFFICE ASSISTANT II AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Human Development & Child Study
Minimum Qualifications: High school graduation or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Four years general office work, including experience in prioritizing work and meeting deadlines. Ability to operate standard office equipment. Knowledge of proper grammar, spelling & punctuation, intermediate word processing, spreadsheet and database applications. Ability to effectively interact with the public, students, faculty, and staff. This is a full time, clerical-technical position, with a salary of $39,693 annually. See online posting for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by August 29, 2016. Must apply on line to: https://jobs.oakland.edu Seeking
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF ACCOUNTABILITY FOR COMPLIANCE & FISCAL PERFORMANCE, PUBLIC SCHOOL ACADEMIES Charter Schools
Provide collaborative and business management direction and oversight in all fiscal matters pertaining to budgetary control, accounting policies and procedures, forecasting and billing and special projects for the operation of the Office of Public School Academies/Urban Partnerships directly, as well as each of its K-12 schools. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with concentration in accounting. A minimum of 3 years accounting experience, budget preparation and control, analysis. Familiarity with federal and state regulations related to K-12 educational funding. Salary commensurate with experience. Refer to online posting for additional qualifications and requirements. Must apply on line to: https://jobs.oakland.edu Seeking
ASSISTANT REGISTRAR FOR COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTING AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Office of the Registrar
Increase the use of technology within the Office of the Registrar to engage and support student success and retention. Assist in the pursuit and application of new process and technologies to increase the efficiency of manual processes. Fulfill increased need for timely and accurate Student Information System (SIS) reporting and other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree or higher in business, computer information systems, communications, or related field from a regionally accredited institution of higher education or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience. Two years of full-time experience working in higher education. One year experience working directly with a Student Information System or a large Enterprise Resource System (ERP). One year of experience working with mass communication via email, web, social media, etc. Salary is commensurate with experience. Refer to online posting for additional qualifications and requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by August 25, 2016. Must apply on line to: https://jobs.oakland.edu
praise connection
August 17-23, 2016
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
Page D-5
Rita Griffin, beloved long-time employee of the Michigan Chronicle passed on Monday, Aug. 17. Rita Griffin, born Alma Rita Griffin, was a talented writer who began her long tenure with the Michigan Chronicle as a teenager in the early 1960s. She advanced from writing entertainment stories to being appointed entertainment editor. Over the years, Griffin interviewed a virtual who’s who of black show business celebrities and became personal friends with a number of them. But eventually, she felt it was time to move on and was subsequently named assistant managing editor.
The Welcome Baptist Church honored its pastor Rev. Kenneth E. Brock in a celebration held at the Athena Hall Banquet Center located on Gratiot Avenue in Roseville. Photo L. to R. 1st row: Pastor James Jones keynote speaker , 1st Lady Yvonne Johnson Brock , O’ Neil D. Swanson Sr., Pres./CEO Swanson Funeral Homes Inc. and Nelly Williams, PHD Back row : Criscilh Levingston , Evangelist La Tisha Walker and Danielle Fuqua Welcome Baptist Church is located at 14142 Fordham in Detroit.
American Heart Association/American Stroke Association presents Day of Heart The Association and its partners aim to cultivate a culture of health and wellness with two free awareness events. The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association encourages community members to mark their calendars for a day of thought-provoking ideas and inspirational praise on Friday, Sept. 9. The day kicks-off with goREDTALKS on the campus of the DMC Heart Hospital, located at 311 Mack Ave. in Detroit from 8 a.m. –to 11: 30 a.m. The day concludes with the Most Powerful Voices Concert and Health Expo, which kicks off at 5 p.m. followed by a concert at 7:30 p.m. featuring 10-time Grammy award-nominated artist Marvin Sapp at Second Ebenezer Church, located at 14601 Dequindre Rd. in Detroit. Attendees are encouraged to register for these events. The goREDTALKS is an event based on the principles of TEDx. Attendees have the opportunity to hear short talks from leaders representing various industries. New this year is the addition of a Detroit Public Schools STEM program competition. The winner
getting up and getting moving. In the evening, the public can dazzle in their “Sunday’s Best” for the Most Powerful Voices Concert, an informative praise fest, designed to educate African Americans about stroke and equip the community with resources that will help them achieve ideal health.
Marvin Sapp will receive a scholarship and present an essay on “Changing the Culture of Health in Detroit.” “Our goal is to bring together bright minds to share ideas and foster learning on issues that matter here in Detroit,” said Mindy Lopus, director of Go Red For Women for the Southeast Michigan American Heart Association. “I’m really excited for everyone to hear from Toni Carey, who co-founded a movement called Black Girls Run that encourages and inspires African American women to live a healthy lifestyle,” said Lopus. “Toni, has an inspiring message about grassroots organizations and the importance of
Sisters Network® Inc., the only National African - American Breast Cancer Survivorship Organization in the United States is pleased to announce the organization’s 15th National African - American Breast Cancer Conference, scheduled for October 21-23, 2016 in Detroit, Michigan. The host hotel is the Marriott Renaissance Center; our 2016 theme is “Awareness to Change.” We cordially invite you as a Local Sponsor by sponsoring 10 of your church members and breast cancer survivors to attend the conference seminars, Public Luncheon and Sunday Jazz Brunch. Additionally, your congregation will be recognized in our Conference Souvenir book with a half page journal ad. The registration cost is $150.00 per person. For the cost of $1,500 sponsorship, you will afford 10 members of your congregation to attend the conference seminars, Public Luncheon and Sunday Jazz Brunch. Additionally, your congregation will be recognized in our Conference Souvenir Conference with a half page journal ad. In 1994, Karen E. Jackson founded Sisters Network Inc., in Houston, Texas with just 15 breast cancer survivors, with this mission: To increase local and national attention to the devastating impact that breast cancer has in the African - American community; Sisters Network Inc. has chapters in 22 States. The organization established a National Breast Cancer Assistance Program (BCAP), which assists breast cancer survivors facing financial challenges after diagnosis. The BCAP program assists with free mammograms, ultrasounds, and biopsies. In addition, for youth, Sisters Network established Teens for Pink (T4P) it is a national award winning multi-level initiative, designed to educate teen girls between the ages of 12-16 on the importance of breast health. It leverages the energy and tenacity of teens to create sustainable change across African - American communities.
At that time, in the mid-1980s, Steve Holsey, who came to the Michigan Chronicle by way of Griffin, was given the entertainment editor title by then-publisher Sam Logan. Griffin was the first person to ever interview the Supremes. She and Diana Ross both went to Cass Technical High School. She recalled that Ross used to carry around a portable record phonograph to play early Supremes records for anyone who would listen. This was years before the Supremes became famous. In addition to being a great writer, Rita Griffin was known for her ability to put together tabs and special editions. She was also hilarious, but not
9th Annual Community Health Fair to be held at Temple of I AM The Temple of I AM will host its 9th Annual Community Health Fair on Saturday, Aug. 20 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at 4380 Conner in Detroit. The event for men, women, children, families, and seniors will provide health screenings and community resource information. Especially for the senior and disabled community who are beneficiaries, the Detroit Area Agency on Aging will be on site to provide information about the Medicare/ Medicaid Assistance Program and healthy aging. Adult Well Being Services will also be on site to provide valuable resource information and their wrap around program. Henry Ford Health Systems will be on-site to provided screenings for blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, and body mass index; National Kidney Foundation will provide kidney testing; Unified will provide HIV Testing; My Community Dental Centers to provide screenings for children; WSU Open Source Medicine to provide personal MYHealth Report. Forgotten Harvest in partnership with the Capuchin Soup Kitchen and
Coalition on Temporary Shelter will distribute 250 to 300 bags of donated food to the community. Exhibitors will include the Institute for Population Health Maternal Infant Health Program, Advantage Health Centers, Northeast Guidance Center, Best Bank, Detroit Credit Union One, Michigan Problem Gambling Hotline, Aetna Better Health of Michigan, Molina Health Plan, Blue Cross Complete, and AmeriHealth Caritas, Children’s Special Health Care Services, Tri-County Breast Cancer & Cervical Cancer Prevention Program. Throughout the day, activities will include live entertainment, free therapeutic massages, Healthy Hustle, Zumba, children’s activities, petting farm, pony rides, school supply give-a-ways, refreshments, and raffles. Local artist, Ifoma Stubbs will also be present to exhibit his artwork and crafts. For more information or to register as a service provider, contact Jewell L. Akins at (313) 6735093 or email her at findajewell@yahoo.com. The event is free.
Are you hosting a concert or faith-friendly event? Are you celebrating an anniversary or special occasion?
PROMOTE IT HERE!
PRAISE CONNECT
Contact us at: 313.963.5522
PRAISE CONNECT
Current statistics find one in eight women will have a diagnosis of breast cancer this year. The devastating reality is African - American women are dying three times more often than other ethnic groups. As an organization, we continue to urge communities through awareness to STOP THE SILENCE and Early Detection continues to be the KEY. Lastly, the organization’s purpose is to continue providing a broader scope of knowledge, assistance, and support for women currently facing a health crisis. In addition, we support efforts to eradicate Are you this disease in our lifetime.
hosting a concert or faithCome Join In This Year’s Grand Celebration friendly event? Thank you for considering this request. Please return the enFor A Special Man & Woman of God
closed Sponsorship Form by September 30, 2016. If you have All Are Welcome to Attend any questions or need additional information, please contact Are you celebrating an anniversary The 2016 Pastoral Appreciation Service Honoring Mary Waters at 313-348-7175 or Vernice Anthony at (313) 460or special occasion? 7000. Presiding Bishop Carl E. Holland & Sincerely, Vernice Anthony, Conference Honorary Chair Mary Waters, Conference Co-Chair
First Lady Sandra Star Holland
PROMOTE IT HERE!
Sunday, August 21, 2016 • 4 p.m. At
Greater Christ Temple Church
GREATER METROPOLITAN DETROIT AFFILIATE CHAPTER P. O. BOX 35094 | DETROIT, MI 48235
Contact us at:
nblack@realtimesmedia.com PHONE: 313.438.3639 | EMAIL: DETROIT@SISTERSNETWORKINC.ORG
210 Hilton Road Ferndale, Michigan 48220 For More Information
Coordinator: 313-937-8779 Church Office: 248-414-3700
2x3.5
It would be impossible to overstate the many contributions Rita Griffin made to the Michigan Chronicle. She left it a better newspaper than it was before she joined the staff. Family hour for Rita Griffin will be held Saturday Aug. 20 at 3 p.m. at Swanson Funeral Home North West, 14751 W. McNichols. The funeral service will follow at 3:30 p.m. one to “take stuff” from anyone.
For more information please call 313-272-9000.
Emma Jean Ayler-Harris
On Friday, July 22, services were held at People’s Missionary Baptist Church for Emma Jean Ayler-Harris who passed away on July 15, 2016. Elder Harold Holland officiated. Emma Jean Ayler-Harris was born on Nov. 23, 1941 in Mobile, Alabama to Eugene and Jessie Mae Ayler. She attended Mobile public schools and in 1960 graduated from Mobile County Training School. She and Gid Harris, Jr. married and had four children. After moving to Detroit, she worked for 20 years as a trainable aide in the special education division of the Detroit Public Schools. Left to cherish the memory of Emma Jean Ayler-Harris are her children, Monica Snapp, Marsha, Cortez and Adrian; a sister, Janella Harris; two brothers, Pastor Gary Ayler and Eugene Ayler; and many other relatives and friends.
Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.
Interment took place at Elmwood Cemetery.
Robert Lee Fisher
Services for Robert Lee Fisher were held on Friday, Aug. 5, at Perfecting Church with Elder Roy Haynes officiating. Mr. Fisher passed away on July 22, 2016. Robert Lee Fisher was born on Oct. 5, 1955 to Frank and Annie Fisher. He was educated in the Detroit Public Schools, including Mumford High School. After graduation, he attended RETS Electronic Institute in Grand Rapids, which prepared him for positions with Ford Motor Company, Electronic Data Systems and AT&T. He loved to sing, entertain and try his luck at the casino. He also enjoyed coaching children in football and he worked as a bodyguard for local celebrities and some of the Detroit Pistons. The memory of Robert Lee Fisher is being cherished by his daughter, Tamla Smith, and many other relatives and friends. Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements. Interment took place at Detroit Memorial ParkWest
Athel Laburn Moffett
Services for Athel Laburn Moffett were held on Friday, Aug. 5, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Norman P. Thomas officiating. Mrs. Moffett passed away on July 27, 2016. Athel Laburn Moffett was born on July 16, 1940 to George and Juanita Thornton. She was educated in Catholic schools but graduated from Chadsey High School. She was married twice. With Harrison Smith she had two children, Eric Vincent and Carlos Tyrell. Her second husband was William Moffett. Left to cherish the memory of Athel Laburn Moffett are her children, Carlos Tyrell and Eric Vincent; a brother, George; two sisters, Patricia and Georgene; and many other relatives and friends. Swanson ments.
Funeral Home handled the arrange-
Lillian G. Ramey
Services for Lillian G. Ramey were held on Tuesday, Aug. 2, at Souls For Christ Deliverance Center Church with Elder Irvin Corley, Jr. officiating. Mrs. Ramey passed away on July 19, 2016. Lillian G. Ramey was born on June 22, 1918 to John and Lena Gentry in Louisville, Kentucky. The family moved to Detroit when she was six months old. She was educated in the Detroit Public Schools, including Cass Technical High School. She was a member of the Eastern Star and was an ordained missionary minister. From her first marriage, she gave birth to a son, James, and a daughter, Lorraine. Her second marriage was to James Ramey. They were married for 30 years. She held a number of jobs over the years. She loved reading and writing. Cherishing the memory of Lillian G. Ramey are her daughter, Lorraine; a brother, Louis; and many other relatives and friends. Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.
Interment took place at Trinity Cemetery.
praise connection
August 17-23, 2016
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
Page D-5
Rita Griffin, beloved longtime employee of the Michigan Chronicle, passed on Monday, Aug. 17 Rita Griffin, born Alma Rita Griffin, was a talented writer who began her long tenure with the Michigan Chronicle as a teenager in the early 1960s. She advanced from writing entertainment stories to being appointed entertainment editor. Over the years, Griffin interviewed a virtual who’s who of black show business celebrities and became personal friends with a number of them. But eventually, she felt it was time to move on and was subsequently named assistant managing editor.
The Welcome Baptist Church honored its pastor Rev. Kenneth E. Brock in a celebration held at the Athena Hall Banquet Center located on Gratiot Avenue in Roseville. Photo L. to R. 1st row: Pastor James Jones keynote speaker , 1st Lady Yvonne Johnson Brock , O’ Neil D. Swanson Sr., Pres./CEO Swanson Funeral Homes Inc. and Nelly Williams, PHD Back row : Criscilh Levingston , Evangelist La Tisha Walker and Danielle Fuqua Welcome Baptist Church is located at 14142 Fordham in Detroit.
American Heart Association/American Stroke Association presents Day of Heart The Association and its partners aim to cultivate a culture of health and wellness with two free awareness events. The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association encourages community members to mark their calendars for a day of thought-provoking ideas and inspirational praise on Friday, Sept. 9. The day kicks-off with goREDTALKS on the campus of the DMC Heart Hospital, located at 311 Mack Ave. in Detroit from 8 a.m. –to 11: 30 a.m. The day concludes with the Most Powerful Voices Concert and Health Expo, which kicks off at 5 p.m. followed by a concert at 7:30 p.m. featuring 10-time Grammy award-nominated artist Marvin Sapp at Second Ebenezer Church, located at 14601 Dequindre Rd. in Detroit. Attendees are encouraged to register for these events. The goREDTALKS is an event based on the principles of TEDx. Attendees have the opportunity to hear short talks from leaders representing various industries. New this year is the addition of a Detroit Public Schools STEM program competition. The winner
getting up and getting moving. In the evening, the public can dazzle in their “Sunday’s Best” for the Most Powerful Voices Concert, an informative praise fest, designed to educate African Americans about stroke and equip the community with resources that will help them achieve ideal health.
Marvin Sapp will receive a scholarship and present an essay on “Changing the Culture of Health in Detroit.” “Our goal is to bring together bright minds to share ideas and foster learning on issues that matter here in Detroit,” said Mindy Lopus, director of Go Red For Women for the Southeast Michigan American Heart Association. “I’m really excited for everyone to hear from Toni Carey, who co-founded a movement called Black Girls Run that encourages and inspires African American women to live a healthy lifestyle,” said Lopus. “Toni, has an inspiring message about grassroots organizations and the importance of
Sisters Network® Inc., the only National African - American Breast Cancer Survivorship Organization in the United States is pleased to announce the organization’s 15th National African - American Breast Cancer Conference, scheduled for October 21-23, 2016 in Detroit, Michigan. The host hotel is the Marriott Renaissance Center; our 2016 theme is “Awareness to Change.” We cordially invite you as a Local Sponsor by sponsoring 10 of your church members and breast cancer survivors to attend the conference seminars, Public Luncheon and Sunday Jazz Brunch. Additionally, your congregation will be recognized in our Conference Souvenir book with a half page journal ad. The registration cost is $150.00 per person. For the cost of $1,500 sponsorship, you will afford 10 members of your congregation to attend the conference seminars, Public Luncheon and Sunday Jazz Brunch. Additionally, your congregation will be recognized in our Conference Souvenir Conference with a half page journal ad. In 1994, Karen E. Jackson founded Sisters Network Inc., in Houston, Texas with just 15 breast cancer survivors, with this mission: To increase local and national attention to the devastating impact that breast cancer has in the African - American community; Sisters Network Inc. has chapters in 22 States. The organization established a National Breast Cancer Assistance Program (BCAP), which assists breast cancer survivors facing financial challenges after diagnosis. The BCAP program assists with free mammograms, ultrasounds, and biopsies. In addition, for youth, Sisters Network established Teens for Pink (T4P) it is a national award winning multi-level initiative, designed to educate teen girls between the ages of 12-16 on the importance of breast health. It leverages the energy and tenacity of teens to create sustainable change across African - American communities.
At that time, in the mid-1980s, Steve Holsey, who came to the Michigan Chronicle by way of Griffin, was given the entertainment editor title by then-publisher Sam Logan. Griffin was the first person to ever interview the Supremes. She and Diana Ross both went to Cass Technical High School. She recalled that Ross used to carry around a portable record phonograph to play early Supremes records for anyone who would listen. This was years before the Supremes became famous. In addition to being a great writer, Rita Griffin was known for her ability to put together tabs and special editions. She was also hilarious, but not
9th Annual Community Health Fair to be held at Temple of I AM The Temple of I AM will host its 9th Annual Community Health Fair on Saturday, Aug. 20 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at 4380 Conner in Detroit. The event for men, women, children, families, and seniors will provide health screenings and community resource information. Especially for the senior and disabled community who are beneficiaries, the Detroit Area Agency on Aging will be on site to provide information about the Medicare/ Medicaid Assistance Program and healthy aging. Adult Well Being Services will also be on site to provide valuable resource information and their wrap around program. Henry Ford Health Systems will be on-site to provided screenings for blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, and body mass index; National Kidney Foundation will provide kidney testing; Unified will provide HIV Testing; My Community Dental Centers to provide screenings for children; WSU Open Source Medicine to provide personal MYHealth Report. Forgotten Harvest in partnership with the Capuchin Soup Kitchen and
Coalition on Temporary Shelter will distribute 250 to 300 bags of donated food to the community. Exhibitors will include the Institute for Population Health Maternal Infant Health Program, Advantage Health Centers, Northeast Guidance Center, Best Bank, Detroit Credit Union One, Michigan Problem Gambling Hotline, Aetna Better Health of Michigan, Molina Health Plan, Blue Cross Complete, and AmeriHealth Caritas, Children’s Special Health Care Services, Tri-County Breast Cancer & Cervical Cancer Prevention Program. Throughout the day, activities will include live entertainment, free therapeutic massages, Healthy Hustle, Zumba, children’s activities, petting farm, pony rides, school supply give-a-ways, refreshments, and raffles. Local artist, Ifoma Stubbs will also be present to exhibit his artwork and crafts. For more information or to register as a service provider, contact Jewell L. Akins at (313) 6735093 or email her at findajewell@yahoo.com. The event is free.
Are you hosting a concert or faith-friendly event? Are you celebrating an anniversary or special occasion?
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PRAISE CONNECT
Contact us at: 313.963.5522
PRAISE CONNECT
Current statistics find one in eight women will have a diagnosis of breast cancer this year. The devastating reality is African - American women are dying three times more often than other ethnic groups. As an organization, we continue to urge communities through awareness to STOP THE SILENCE and Early Detection continues to be the KEY. Lastly, the organization’s purpose is to continue providing a broader scope of knowledge, assistance, and support for women currently facing a health crisis. In addition, we support efforts to eradicate Are you this disease in our lifetime.
hosting a concert or faithCome Join In This Year’s Grand Celebration friendly event? Thank you for considering this request. Please return the enFor A Special Man & Woman of God
closed Sponsorship Form by September 30, 2016. If you have All Are Welcome to Attend any questions or need additional information, please contact Are you celebrating an anniversary The 2016 Pastoral Appreciation Service Honoring Mary Waters at 313-348-7175 or Vernice Anthony at (313) 460or special occasion? 7000. Presiding Bishop Carl E. Holland & Sincerely, Vernice Anthony, Conference Honorary Chair Mary Waters, Conference Co-Chair
First Lady Sandra Star Holland
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Sunday, August 21, 2016 • 4 p.m. At
Greater Christ Temple Church
GREATER METROPOLITAN DETROIT AFFILIATE CHAPTER P. O. BOX 35094 | DETROIT, MI 48235
Contact us at:
nblack@realtimesmedia.com PHONE: 313.438.3639 | EMAIL: DETROIT@SISTERSNETWORKINC.ORG
210 Hilton Road Ferndale, Michigan 48220 For More Information
Coordinator: 313-937-8779 Church Office: 248-414-3700
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It would be impossible to overstate the many contributions Rita Griffin made to the Michigan Chronicle. She left it a better newspaper than it was before she joined the staff. Family hour for Rita Griffin will be held Saturday Aug. 20 at 3 p.m. at Swanson Funeral Home North West, 14751 W. McNichols. The funeral service will follow at 3:30 p.m. one to “take stuff” from anyone.
For more information please call 313-272-9000.
Emma Jean Ayler-Harris
On Friday, July 22, services were held at People’s Missionary Baptist Church for Emma Jean Ayler-Harris who passed away on July 15, 2016. Elder Harold Holland officiated. Emma Jean Ayler-Harris was born on Nov. 23, 1941 in Mobile, Alabama to Eugene and Jessie Mae Ayler. She attended Mobile public schools and in 1960 graduated from Mobile County Training School. She and Gid Harris, Jr. married and had four children. After moving to Detroit, she worked for 20 years as a trainable aide in the special education division of the Detroit Public Schools. Left to cherish the memory of Emma Jean Ayler-Harris are her children, Monica Snapp, Marsha, Cortez and Adrian; a sister, Janella Harris; two brothers, Pastor Gary Ayler and Eugene Ayler; and many other relatives and friends.
Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.
Interment took place at Elmwood Cemetery.
Robert Lee Fisher
Services for Robert Lee Fisher were held on Friday, Aug. 5, at Perfecting Church with Elder Roy Haynes officiating. Mr. Fisher passed away on July 22, 2016. Robert Lee Fisher was born on Oct. 5, 1955 to Frank and Annie Fisher. He was educated in the Detroit Public Schools, including Mumford High School. After graduation, he attended RETS Electronic Institute in Grand Rapids, which prepared him for positions with Ford Motor Company, Electronic Data Systems and AT&T. He loved to sing, entertain and try his luck at the casino. He also enjoyed coaching children in football and he worked as a bodyguard for local celebrities and some of the Detroit Pistons. The memory of Robert Lee Fisher is being cherished by his daughter, Tamla Smith, and many other relatives and friends. Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements. Interment took place at Detroit Memorial ParkWest
Athel Laburn Moffett
Services for Athel Laburn Moffett were held on Friday, Aug. 5, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Norman P. Thomas officiating. Mrs. Moffett passed away on July 27, 2016. Athel Laburn Moffett was born on July 16, 1940 to George and Juanita Thornton. She was educated in Catholic schools but graduated from Chadsey High School. She was married twice. With Harrison Smith she had two children, Eric Vincent and Carlos Tyrell. Her second husband was William Moffett. Left to cherish the memory of Athel Laburn Moffett are her children, Carlos Tyrell and Eric Vincent; a brother, George; two sisters, Patricia and Georgene; and many other relatives and friends. Swanson ments.
Funeral Home handled the arrange-
Lillian G. Ramey
Services for Lillian G. Ramey were held on Tuesday, Aug. 2, at Souls For Christ Deliverance Center Church with Elder Irvin Corley, Jr. officiating. Mrs. Ramey passed away on July 19, 2016. Lillian G. Ramey was born on June 22, 1918 to John and Lena Gentry in Louisville, Kentucky. The family moved to Detroit when she was six months old. She was educated in the Detroit Public Schools, including Cass Technical High School. She was a member of the Eastern Star and was an ordained missionary minister. From her first marriage, she gave birth to a son, James, and a daughter, Lorraine. Her second marriage was to James Ramey. They were married for 30 years. She held a number of jobs over the years. She loved reading and writing. Cherishing the memory of Lillian G. Ramey are her daughter, Lorraine; a brother, Louis; and many other relatives and friends. Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.
Interment took place at Trinity Cemetery.
Page D-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • August 17-23, 2016
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