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Volume 79 – Number 33

April 27 - May 3, 2016

‘I made a mistake’

Hardest Hit Fund, a big hit in Detroit

By Roz Edward

Judge Rhodes admits error with transition team, plans correction

The Hardest Hit Fund is becoming a big hit with Michigan and Detroit.

The U.S. Department of Treasury began distributing the new Hardest Hit Funds to Michigan in February of this year.

Michigan received $74.49 million immediately for blight removal and homeowner assistance.

Recently, the feds awarded an additional $188 million in new blight removal funding — the most of any state in the country — from the U.S. Treasury Department in its round of funding to states for urban revitalization efforts.

Though Detroit's share of the historic level of funding has yet to be finalized, it is likely to be a great deal more than the $42 million recently awarded to the city out of the state's nearly $75 million share.

Total funding to the state from the Hardest Hit Fund for this year is $262 million.

The unprecedented award will allow Detroit to increase the pace of demolition for abandoned and open and hazardous residential structures from the 4,000 structures torn down in 2015, to 5,000 buildings in 2016 and 6,000 in 2017.

“This new funding would not have been possible without the diverse coalition that came together in support of the Detroit-led effort to get congressional approval for $2 billion in additional

See FUNDS page A-4

WHAT’S INSIDE

Photo Credit: Kimberley P. Mitchell/Detroit Free Press. Reprinted with permission.

By Keith A. Owens Senior Editor

Last week, DPS Transition Manager Judge Steven Rhodes generated some unwanted headlines when he released a list of candidates he had selected to serve on his hand-selected transition team. The transition team will be saddled with the sweat-inducing responsibility of bridging the (unbelievably huge) gap between where DPS is right now and where he hopes it will be in the fall, which remains the goal for when DPS will once again have a publicly elected school board.

The problem with what Judge Rhodes now says was only a partial list is that all the listed candidates except for one were white, and hardly any of them actually lived in Detroit.

So yes, that was a problem.

Not the only problem, to be sure, but certainly a problem.

To his credit, once the glaring omission was brought to Judge Rhodes’ attention, he wasted little time reaching out to various and assorted community leaders and shapers of opinion to acknowledge the mistake and to say that he immediately planned to take steps to rectify what he ac-

A Celebration of our Future Stars

Michigan Chronicle Salutes the 2016 S.W.A.G Finalists See page A-3

$1.00

knowledged was a large and embarrassing oversight in the context of a city that is more than 80 percent African American, and a school system that hovers closer to the 100 percent mark.

What remains troubling, however, regardless of how good his intentions may have been, is an automatic thought process on the part of the judge that didn’t consider the ramifications or the optics of choosing a “transition” team that looked nothing like the community it was supposed to be helping transition.

tive heavy lifting, this third retirement will likely stick.

Perhaps the most encouraging thing Judge Rhodes said during the course of the discussion (to me, not necessarily shared by others in the room) was that he fully supports democracy and local elections, and trusts the judgment of the people of Detroit to select their own leaders.

On Friday morning, I was one of several local media people who responded to Rhodes’ call to have a roundtable discussion at his office on the 14th floor of the Fisher Building to talk about his intentions and to clarify his vision for DPS, to whatever degree he can affect real change in the brief time he plans to remain in the driver’s seat. Because as he said, once a new school board is elected, he is gone.

“What is the alternative?

To keep me in office forever?” he said. “You don’t want that, and frankly I don’t either. I’m retired, remember? I’ve already retired twice. I believe in the willingness and the ability of the citizens of the city of Detroit to elect the best possible school board they can. That’s why I’m here. I believe in democracy. If you don’t believe in democracy, your alternative is one emergency manager after another. I am not just another emergency manager to babysit this school system for another 18 months. The governor asked me to do this on the premise that the legislation will pass, and that a school board will be elected in the fall. And when they’re elected, I’m done.”

And, as someone who has been pulled out of retirement twice to perform overly exhaus-

Which, I would add, is why Detroiters should be allowed to elect their own school board

But that’s done. So we move on.

that is not burdened with the additional bureaucratic layer of a Detroit Education Commission with the power to oversee the board and veto their decisions. Nor should the superintendent be appointed by anyone except the school board. If you’re going to give it back, just give it back.

The following are responses given by Judge Rhodes to questions presented by those present as well as his own unprompted speculations On what went wrong with the transition team I made a mistake, and I’m in the process of fixing it and correcting it. When I prepared my 45-day report, my financial and operating plan, I didn’t pay as much attention to that section of the report that dealt with the transition team as I should have. I should have said that was an incomplete list and that we are working very hard to include a cross section of Detroit and a representative of the entire community. That was certainly my intention all along.

The committee when it’s finally constituted will be be-

See DPS

TRANSITION page A-4

National celebrities join Day of Action in Flint Days after the first charges were filed in the Flint water crisis, celebrities and thousands of activists are joining national environmental group Green for All for Earth Day to demand that Governor Snyder #FixFlint.

The day of action is the official launch of Green for All’s “Make #PollutersPay” campaign to fix the problem of families paying to clean up the messes created by elected officials like Governor Snyder and big polluters like the fossil fuel industry.

Green For All is joined by National People’s Action in the call for Governor Snyder to rebuild Flint — starting with fixing every pipe in Flint with local labor.

Celebrities and national social justice groups have all joined in — from ColorofChange.org to EarthJustice and the US Climate Action Network, along with thousands of people across the country on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Kory Woods photos Participate or follow along on Twitter with Green for All at @ GreenforAll or at #FixFlint and #PollutersPay. “Families in Flint are tired of paying to fix Governor Snyder’s mistakes, it has to stop,” said

Vien Truong, director of Green for All. “This Earth Day, it’s time to talk about the people affected by pollution, starting in Flint. We won’t stop until Governor Snyder pays to fix every pipe in Flint, with local labor. Justice means

Governor Snyder bringing back not only Flint’s water, but also Flint’s wealth.”

“It's incomprehensible that communities have to pay to fix the damages caused by polluters,” said Van Jones, CNN political commentator and founder of Green For All. “Governor Snyder needs to fix what he’s broken in Flint, and diligently work to rebuild the local economy that has been decimated.”

“It’s not just the water, our homes are now worth nothing and business around us are closing. Flint had been forgotten long before this water crisis, and we need to ensure that fixing all of the pipes is just the first step in this rebuilding process,” said Melissa Mays, Flint resident and founder of a community action group. “The same companies that have polluted our community for years should be the same

See DAY

OF ACTION page A-4

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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

April 20-26, 2016

Page A-2

Detroit Metropolitan and Willow Run airports seek community input for Master Plans

“Based on a recent assessment, we’re confident Detroit Metropolitan Airport is positioned to accommodate future activity and growth,” said Airport Authority CEO Thomas Naughton. “Despite the expected growth in total passengers, our forecast indicates an additional runway at Detroit Metropolitan Airport is not anticipated to be needed within the next two decades. This is a key example of the important information we look at during the Master Plan update process. We also want to make sure our DTW and Willow Run neighbors and customers have the opportunity to understand our planning process, share their ideas and remain engaged with our team.”

Willow Run, which is a primary reliever airport for DTW, serves general aviation, cargo and corporate jet markets. Like Detroit Metropolitan

Airport, there are opportunities and challenges to consider at YIP. This week, the Airport Authority will examine these issues during the first Public Information Meetings of the current Master Plan update process.

Detroit Metropolitan Airport Master Plan Thursday, April 28 5:00 – 7:30 p.m.

Wayne County Community College District Downriver Campus – Ray Mix Room 21000 Northline Road, Taylor Community members may stop by anytime between 5:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. to gain a better understanding of the respective airport’s Master Plan update process.

Participants will have the opportunity to view informative displays and maps, ask questions and provide feedback. Airport staff and their consultant teams will be available to explain the goals and objectives of the Master Plan update, forecasts for future aviation activity, the existing facilities’ ability to meet future demand and potential development solutions.

The last Master Plan updates were completed in 2006.

Finally, punishment for good deeds Bernard J. Youngblood, Wayne County Register of Deeds Michigan Association of Registers of Deeds and Legislators work to stop unethical private companies from fleecing citizens by selling Deeds.

Governor Rick Snyder has signed into law legislation that will prevent private companies from charging exorbitant fees for copies of deeds that are available from their county Register of Deeds office for only $1.00 per page.

For many years citizens have been solicited by private companies charging as much as $95.00 for their own deed, when they are able to obtain copies of the same deed from their local Register of Deeds office for as little as $1.00 ( free at Wayne County, in person with a copy of your driver’s license showing the same address). Repeatedly local news reports have broadcast the same story across the state, but these companies come back to the various counties and solicit the unsuspecting homeowners.

The scam companies send letters that are designed to look like an official government mailing to lure the property owners into the scheme. We at Wayne County Register of Deeds are extremely appreciative of the legislature taking up the issue to solve this problem to protect property owners.

Under the terms of the legislation, the attorney general can bring action against anyone who knowingly violates the terms of the act. The court can order the person to refund all of the money paid by the victims of the scam with respect to the solicitation. In addition, the company may be ordered to pay a fine of $100 for the first violation of the act, followed by $200 fine for a subsequent violation. Fines collected under this section shall be distributed to public libraries.

PA 79 of 2016 was sponsored by Senators Hertel, Schuitmaker, O’Brien, Knezek, Hood, Young,

City Council hopeful Eric Williams

The political hopeful says he is running because “I love my city, and I know that I would bring something unique to the table.” As a Wayne State University professor, Williams started and ran a small business law clinic that provided free services to dozens of neighborhood businesses over the past five years.

Individuals and groups are encouraged to: • Register online at www.motorcitymakeover.org or call (313) 2244415 to join the effort.

• Clean around their neighborhood, business, house of worship, or school on the Saturday designated for their district.

• Organize their neighbors, members or employees for a massive cleanup. Volunteers can indicate the area they will clean when registering or call (313) 224-4415 for a location.

• Organize their neighbors to board up vacant homes in their area.

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Williams also said his interest in public service was piqued from his time working at Focus: HOPE. “My years at Focus: HOPE really shed light on what I had already seen growing up in my city. The structures in place were not working for all the people.

Places like Focus: HOPE were trying to shift that balance in the people’s favor.”

A campaign spokesman said Williams’ listening tour will include 30 community meetings in 30 days to focus on what is important to people in the “less talked about, almost forgotten, parts of our city” and practice “doing the work legislators are supposed to do: Listen to the people, then act as their advocate.”

The scheduled cleanup dates and locations to pick-up supplies are as follows:

Saturday, May 7 District 6 Patton Recreation Center, 2301 Woodmere

District 1 Crowell Recreation Center, 16630 Lahser District 2 Northwest Activities Center, 18100 Meyers

District 4 Warren-Conner Development Coalition, 4401 Conner District 5 Recycle Here!, 1331 Holden Butzel Family Center, 7737 Kercheval Volunteers may take bagged litter to any of the five drop-off locations listed below, which will be open on the three Saturday cleanup dates.

Bulk Drop-Off Locations (limit is one cubic yard or 1,000 pounds)

District 7 Adams Butzel Recreation Complex, 10500 Lyndon Saturday, May 21

District 3 Farwell Recreation Center, 2781 E. Outer Drive

• Davison Yard - 8221 West Davison, 10:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

• Southfield Yard - 12255 Southfield Road, 10:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

• 5840 Anthon between Cavalry and Campbell, 10:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

• State Fair Yard - 19715 John R, 10:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

• J. Fons Transfer Station - 6451 E. McNichols, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

GC SUMMIT KEYNOTE SPEAKERS | MAY 17

THE TALE OF TWO TIPSTERS

Display: 12 p.m. Friday

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

regularly. This really got under my skin, made me feel singled out and powerless. Nobody should feel that way.”

Volunteers who need gloves and bags are asked to contact their local district manager or call the Motor City Makeover hotline at (313) 224-4415. Registered groups will be informed of the date that supplies will be available for pick-up. Residents or organizations needing a location to clean up or beautify should call the hotline.

Saturday, May 14

Copy, corrections and cancellations, preceding the Wed­nesday publication.

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

Eric Williams

• Beautify their area by planting flowers, plants, or trees, or by removing graffiti, etc.

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Cynthia Cooper Cynthia and her team unraveled the fraud at WorldCom, to date one of the largest corporate frauds in history.

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Sherron Watkins Known worldwide as the Enron whistleblower, Sherron Watkins sounded the alarm that marked the beginning of the end for the corporate giant.

• Avoiding securities fraud KEYNOTE PRESENTATION: “After the Scandal: Lessons Learned”

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AWARDS PRESENTATIONS: Crain’s Lifetime Achievement plus the winner of the Rising Star award will be announced

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Prior to joining the faculty at WSU, he was a litigator in New York City where he received his JD from Columbia University. He was active with the Welfare Council of Long Island, working as an advocate. Part of his experiences in NYC encouraged him to consider politics. “I would walk home from the library at night and police officers, under stop-and-frisk orders would search me

Mayor Duggan and the Department of Neighborhoods, along with representatives of various community organizations, kicked off the 2016 Motor City Makeover, the City of Detroit’s annual cleanup and beautification effort. The announcement was made at Cody High School on Detroit’s west side.

This year, the city will be cleaned by districts. Districts 6 and 7 will be cleaned on May 7; Districts 3, 4, and 5 will be cleaned on May 14; and Districts 1 and 2 will be cleaned on May 21.

preceding the Wednesday pub­lication.

Eric Williams is a candidate for Detroit City Council in this year’s at-large special election.

He is working to build neighborhood businesses, establish community policing and protect our schools and seniors.

Williams announced the launch of his campaign for City Council as well as the start of a 30day listening tour. Williams, 48, was born on the west side of Detroit and is currently a professor of law at Wayne State University.

Motor City Makeover

OF

Metropolitan and Willow Run airports are seeking the community’s input on their Master Plans.

The public’s involvement is critical to this process, since Master Plans reflect the long-term goals of airports to accommodate passenger, cargo and general aviation activity over the next 20 years.

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April 27 - May 3, 2016

Page A-3

County Executive Warren C. Evans named County Executive of the Year by NOBCO Michigan Chronicle Staff reports

At its 32nd Annual Economic Development Conference, the National Organization of Black County Officials named Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans the 2016 County Executive of the Year for the work he did during his first year in office to turn the county’s finances around.

“Wayne County CEO Warren Evans came into office and hit the ground running. He took over a county whose structural deficit, and unfunded OPEB liability was so high that the county was on the verge of state receivership.

“Sixteen months after taking the oath of office, Warren Evans reduced the county's OPEB unfunded liability by almost a billion dollars.

“Today, NOBCO honors Warren Evans as the County Executive of the Year. His innovative approach to solving problems is the type of leadership that every municipality could use,” said NOBCO Chairman Roy Brooks.

Under County Exec-

utive Evans’ leadership, the county has reduced OPEB liabilities by $850 million, consolidated mul­ tiple departments to improve service delivery and successfully renegotiated union contracts.

These decisions prevented bankruptcy and an emergency manager while achieving the county’s first general fund surplus in more eight years.

These are some of the accomplishments that led to NOBCO’s decision to select County Executive Evans to receive the conference’s highest honor.

“It is an honor to be selected by NOBCO as their 2016 County Executive of the Year,” said Evans.

“I often get a lot of the credit, but I have assembled an outstanding team dedicated to carrying out my vision for Wayne County. “While we’ve made tremendous progress in a short period of time, we will not stop until our mission is complete.”

The National Organization of Black County Officials, Inc. is a nonpartisan, nonprofit 501(c)3 founded in 1982 in order to provide resources to

From left, Keith Golden, Derek Albert of NOBCO, Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans and Roy Brooks, NOBCO chairman. —Eric Hobson photo empower and transform populations into more sustainable communities. NOBCO supports the service to counties

and communities of elected and appointed county officials throughout the United States by providing education, training

and a clearinghouse of best practices in government. The primary focus areas of NOBCO are health equity, civil rights,

economic development, public safety and environmental justice.

A Celebration of our Future Stars The NNPA, Chevrolet and Howard University recently announced the 2016 Discover the Unexpected journalism fellows in Washington, D.C. From left, Brelaun Douglas, Briahnna Brown, Victoria Jones, Tatyana Hopkins, Sidnee King and McKenzie Marshall. — Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA photo

NNPA, Chevrolet Announce 2016 Discover the Unexpected Journalism Fellows

By Freddie Allen NNPA National News Editor

Sidnee King, a 20-year-old broadcast journalism student at Howard University, admitted that she was nervous about her summer plans, the day before the 2016 Discover the Unexpected (DTU) journalism fellows were announced.

King said that she missed the DTU program launch on March 23, when officials from the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), Chevrolet and the School of Communications at Howard University revealed that eight student journalists would be selected to produce content for four NNPA member publications.

“She said, ‘It’s okay, you’re going to figure it out, don’t worry,’ because I panic sometimes,” said King.

King’s mother reassured her that things would work out, and when they did, King couldn’t wait to share the great news.

“So I just called her and told her that I figured out what I’m doing this summer and it includes an internship and a scholarship and all this good stuff, so she was really excited for me,” said King, a native of Bloomfield Hills.

Gracie Lawson-Borders, dean of the School of Communications at Howard University, said she hoped that people see the young journalists as the future storytellers of the black community.

The dean said that the NNPA, Howard University and Chevrolet were confident that they got the best students for the program.

The 2016 Discover the Unexpected journalism fellows are Brandi Montgomery, Brelaun Douglas, Briahnna Brown, McKenzie Marshall, Tatyana Hopkins, Sidnee King, Victoria Jones and Rushawn Walters. The students come from the Media Journalism and Film department at the School of Communications with concentrations in print, online and broadcast journalism.

The Michigan Chronicle in Detroit, the Chicago Defender, the Atlanta Voice and the Washington Informer are the first group of publishers to participate in the program. The students’ stories and video packages will run in black newspapers and on news websites across the country.

Lawson-Borders surprised the student fellows with a special guest appearance by hip-hop pioneer MC Lyte, who also serves as the national spokesperson for the DTU program. She (MC Lyte)

revealed that the fellows will have access to a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu to use as a pool car during their internships.

“Just to see the fellows getting inside the (Malibu) and shooting video and snapping photographs and talking… it was all truly amazing,” said Michelle Matthews-Alexander, Chevrolet’s diversity marketing manager. “We’re thrilled and we can’t wait to see the content the students will create.”

Benjamin Chavis, president and CEO of the NNPA, said that not only will the journalism fellows get a good learning experience, but the NNPA publishers will also gain from the perspective that the millennials will bring to their newsrooms, “so, this is going to be a mutually beneficial program this summer.”

Jones said that having access to the Chevrolet Malibu to use as a pool car adds a level of professionalism to the whole experience.

She worked for the Afro in Baltimore and Washington, D.C. from 2014 to 2015.

“When I found out that there was another opportunity to work with the black press, I was really excited about it,” said Jones.

She added that unlike the content that she created at the Afro, when she interned at mainstream media outlets the stories were often tailored for a general audience.

Students Wired for Achievement and Greatness The Michigan Chronicle and Talmer Bank & Trust congratulates the 2016 Students Wired for Achievement and Greatness (S.W.A.G.) finalists. The S.W.A.G Awards’ goal is to build confidence and ensure a better future for Detroit teens, provide a village of support for parents and educators and together build strong future community and business leaders. We salute the future leaders being awarded scholarships but also celebrate the hard work and dedication to success conveyed by all that applied for our inaugural award. To these students, thank you for sharing your stories of aspiration, community service and academic success.

On Wednesday, May 25 at 6 p.m., the Michigan Chronicle and Talmer Bank will present the prize winners with their scholarships during an awards reception at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. Author and motivational speaker Shawn Blanchard will share words of encouragement to the students on overcoming childhood challenges to become a successful leader. To attend you must RSVP to Olga Hill at ohill@realtimesmedia. com.

Congratulation to the 25 finalists Lucy Arias Western International High School

Lori Goodwin Cass Technical High School

Papia Aziz Detroit International Academy for Young Women

Alyson Grigsby Cass Technical High School

Daria Bailey Cass Technical High School Mr. Jalen Barney Henry Ford Academy: School of Creative Studies Ms. Krishana Castro Cass Technical High School Lord’Amani Cooper River Rouge High School

“I missed that aspect of reporting on things that I’m personally interested in and that people I talk to are personally interested in,” said Jones. “I missed that connection and targeting issues that affect the black community.”

Ms. Kala Coston Cass Technical High School

While Jones said that she’s looking forward to reporting about the D.C. statehood issue and voting rights at the Washington Informer, King said she wants to write about education reform in Detroit and the Flint water crisis.

Ricardo Cummings Detroit Edison Public School

Matthews-Alexander said that she enjoyed having face time with the journalism fellows and the opportunity for Chevrolet to showcase its commitment to the program.

“What’s most exciting about this phase of the program, from a Chevrolet perspective, is that students are going to go out and really uncover these unexpected stories and find those men and women in these communities that are doing amazing things that we might not hear about,” said Matthews-Alexander. “So for Chevrolet, a brand that is focused on the positive and being optimistic and ingenious, at the end of the day, we feel like this is perfect.”

Alana Crawford Cass Technical High School

Terria Davis Cass Technical High School Ejiro Enajero Detroit School of Arts Lisbeth Garcia-Leon Cass Technical High School

Akia Hewitt Renaissance High School Raheida Khalique Cass Technical High School Shahera Khandaker Cass Technical High School Jay’la Logan Old Redford Academy Jonae’ Maxey Cass Technical High School Chyna Ross Cass Technical High School Leonard Rowe Renaissance High School Omar Salih Detroit Cesar Chavez Academy Paige Sims Renaissance High School Kiryn Swain Cass Technical High School Rashard Thomas Cornerstone Health & Technology High School

May 25, 2016 • 6 pm

Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History 315 E. Warren Ave., Detroit, MI 48202

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DPS transition tween 60 and 80 people. And it has been my policy since I’ve been here to be open and accessible and responsive to the community. I’ve met with teachers, I’ve met with parents, I’ve met with community leaders. My conviction is that in order for DPS to succeed, and for this transition that this legislature is contemplating to succeed, it has to have the support of the Detroit community. And the way to get that support is to involve the community, and so that’s my intent.

I will make public very shortly the full list of who has committed to the transition team. It’s a very impressive list so far and will hopefully get more impressive.

I want to get away from some of the same old names and I really want to involve newer, younger up-and-coming members of our community. Because it won’t be long before they become responsible for the future.

Why even have a transition team?

OK, fair enough. That’s a really good question. Let’s start there. I have a transition team because the process of creating a new school district, and transferring the responsibility of educating children to that new school district, is an immensely complex subject. And it’s too big for me, and it’s too big for the people that are here. I have been convinced, and I remain convinced, that the success of DPS in the future, just like the success of any school system, depends upon the support of the community. And the best way to get the support of the community is to involve them in its creation.

What are some of the major problems facing DPS now?

Page A-4

From page A-1 for next year, our preparations are based on this year’s budget, not this year’s actuals.

I’ve got all but one of my collective bargaining agreements expiring on June 30. I need help doing that, and I’m going to get help from this transition team.

DPS needs a strategy to optimize its revenue because our revenues do not cover our expenses. We’ve had budget deficits and we’re going to continue to have budget deficits until we optimize our revenue. Where we leave money on the table is with federal government grants and with philanthropic grants.

And we leave money on the table in two specific ways. We don’t apply for money that we would get if we applied for them.

And second, when we do apply for a grant and get it we administer it so badly that either we don’t get all the money in the grant we’re entitled to, or they demand some of it back. We need to do a better job of grant administration.

We do not have adequate safety and security and safety in our schools. I’ve heard principals talk to me about that, I’ve heard parents talk to me about that, and I’ve heard teachers talk to me about that.

We have an HR (Human Resources) department that is an utter disaster, so we’re starting from scratch to rebuild HR. Am I going to finish it by the time I leave? Probably not, but I have to put it on a path. I can’t let it sit the way it is.

It may well be that our finances won’t allow us to solve all of these problems.

So what do we do when that happens?

We have to go into the community and ask for that to be backfilled (meaning volunteers and community donations)

I’ve been around insolvency and bankruptcy for 30 years, and in every case of insolvency, there are bad books.

And we have bad books. We need help.

We need help with human resources.

Perhaps the greatest need is the simple legalities involved in transferring property from what we are now calling Oldco to Newco. It’s something we don’t have the capability of doing, we need help.

We need to be proactive about bringing the community to the support of DPS.

Our finance department has been decimated by cuts. Our communications staff has done a reasonably good job of doing what I will call keeping the trains running. But what we haven’t seen is a proactive communications plan that gets the good story out.

We have a very aggressive time schedule of what needs to be done by what dates, all with the goal to get me a report

by June 15.

I would have thought that after I don’t know how many years of emergency management, our finances would have been in reasonably good shape. I don’t mean our finances I mean our books and records. They’re not. DPS does not even follow the basic core accounting principle to close its books every month. It closes them once a year. What does that mean? That means that right now, when I and my team are preparing the budget

April 27 - May 3, 2016

What does the future hold?

My goal, when I leave, and we’re in a constant debate about how long that’s going to be, is to leave DPS in the best condition I can with the greatest possible community support. That’s my goal.

Can you get this done in time? And will there be enough Detroit representation on transition team?

I have a somewhat broader view of DPS. My view is that this entire region has a stake in the outcome of DPS. Not just Detroit. Why do I say that? Because this entire region has a stake in the success of Detroit.

Maybe transition wasn’t the right word. Maybe we need a new word. Because it’s not transition, it’s rebuilding DPS.

Flint water crisis whistleblower named one of TIME’s most influential people Michigan Chronicle Staff reports

TIME named Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha, director of the Michigan State University, and Hurley Children’s Hospital Pediatric Public Health Initiative, to the 2016 TIME 100, its annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world.

The list, now in its 13th year, recognizes the activism, innovations and achievements of the world’s most influential individuals. As TIME editor Nancy Gibbs has said of the list in the past, “The TIME 100 is a list of the world's most influential men and women, not its most powerful, though those are not mutually exclusive terms. While power is certain, influence is subtle. As much as this exercise chronicles the achievements of the past year, we also focus on figures whose influence is likely to grow, so we can look around the corner to see what is coming."

“Dr. Mona,” as many call her, captured the 20th spot in the top 100 list, or 1.1 percent of the vote total, alongside U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, talk show hosts Stephen Colbert and John Oliver, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

“I am honored and humbled to

be on the TIME 100 most influential people list. However, the most influential people in my worid are the people of Flint — the smart, strong and resilient people of Flint who are approaching their third year of unsafe water. I hope this recognition continues to bring awareness to the ongoing Flint Water Crisis and the very human story behind the crisis. I would like to thank TIME magazine for the honor and everyone for their votes and extensive support,” said Hanna-Attisha, MD, MPH, FAAP. She now directs the Michigan State University and Hurley Children’s Hospital Pediatric Public Health Initiative, a model public health program aimed at improving the lives of all Flint children.

“We are very proud of Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha for the outstanding work she has done to help the children and families of Flint,” said Aron Sousa, MD, interim dean, MSU College of Human Medicine. “Her science and advocacy demonstrate why public intellectual institutions like hospitals and universities are important to the health and safety of Americans. It is nice that TIME has recognized Mona, but her work and energy had made us very proud already.”

Day of Action ones to pay up.”

“Pollution isn’t free for our communities. We pay the price in emergency room visits, in shortened lives and poisoned water,” said Jessica Scruggs, deputy director of policy at National People's Action. “Pollution shouldn’t be free for the polluters. It is time we put people and the planet before corporate profits.”

In the coming weeks, Green For All will be releasing a solutions toolkit in partnership with major environmental groups that will lay out a series of recommendations for making polluters pay, along with options for how states

From page A-1 can implement their own “Polluters Pay Fund.” There will also be a series of high-profile events across the country to educate stakeholders on this policy model and help states win Polluters Pay Funds in their state.

Green for All is a national initiative that puts communities of color at the forefront of the climate movement and equity at the center of environmental solutions. By creating and implementing equitable solutions to some our most pressing issues today — like poverty and pollution — Green For All works to ensure that every American citizen has access to strong, resilient and healthy communities.

University of Detroit Mercy alumnus gives back to those who helped him He was one of seven children born to a father with a sixth-grade education and a mother who ended her education with high school. His father was a janitor and his mother didn’t work outside the home, so money was always tight.

The family lived in rented homes and housing projects. The daunting prospect of paying tuition bills was just one hurdle keeping him from dreaming about college. The other? He did not do very well in high school.

“I lost a sister to leukemia at 15 and I was in a haze for two years,” Michael A. Carter said.

“When I came out of that haze my senior year I had a lot of catching up to do.

I remember my guidance counselor in my senior year said to me, ‘I see three options for you: Ford, GM or Chrysler.’”

But Carter’s goals didn’t include working on the assembly line.

That’s when the first of several of what he calls guardian angels appeared.

His uncle and aunt, who were childless, took in the young Carter “Growing up I only wanted two things,” Carter said. “I dreamed of my own bedroom. I had slept on couches my whole life, and I hoped that one day I’d have my own bedroom.

I also wanted my own stereo system.” When he moved in with his aunt and uncle at age 16, both of those dreams came true. But his aunt and uncle helped him dream bigger.

“My uncle was in education and he pushed me to think about college,” Carter said. “He got me to take the SAT and the ACT and, by the grace of God, he got me into Detroit Mercy.” That was in 1968, and Carter was in the first class of Project 100, a program designed to admit and support inner-city public and paro-

chial high school graduates with high academic potential to the University. This is where he met another guardian angel.

Dolores A. Davis-Penn was a counselor for Project 100 and took her job very seriously.

“She knew I had my classes and work and that I would get home around 10 o’clock every night,” he said. “And every night at 10:30, she’d call and I’d pick it up and she’d say ‘How was your day?’”

So every night for 15 minutes, the two would talk about his classes, his work, anything he wanted to say. She told him to keep his eye on his goal of a degree, and that she was there to help him. She had no idea how much these phone calls meant to him.

“I was one of four counselors for the 100 students in that first class,” said Davis-Penn.

“We all helped recruit and I felt it was a mission of the heart. I was determined to see as many of those students as possible succeed. I was not academically prepared for college,” Carter said. “But I got laser-like in wanting to make sure I got my studies done. I ate, slept and lived in the library, and every night she called to make sure I was OK.” “There were a few students I had a special rapport with, and Michael was one of them,” Davis-Penn said. “The beautiful thing is that I could watch them grow right before my eyes. I could see the results of my work day by day.” As he worked toward his political science degree, he also held down a series of jobs and saved up some money and became a guardian angel of sorts to his parents. As a sophomore, he had saved up enough money to help his parents purchase their first home. After earning a bachelor’s degree in po-

From left, Mark Denham, Detroit Mercy Dean of the College of Liberal Arts & Education; Michael A. Carter, Detroit Mercy honoree; Dr. Antoine Garibaldi, president, University of Detroit Mercy; and Pamela Zarkowski, provost and associate vice president of Academic Affairs. litical science, he worked as a teacher, swimming coach and purchasing agent. He returned to UDM to earn his MBA, founded a janitorial company, and later worked as a sales rep and in the healthcare industry. In 2002, he founded Athena Health Club and Day Spa in Nashville, Tenn., and became managing partner at Pinnacle Construction Partners, LLC, a Tennessee-based construction firm that does business in several states.

Carter and his wife, Pamela L. Carter, who he met at Detroit Mercy, have dedicated themselves to carrying the torch lit by his guardian angels. They have created a charitable foundation and fund scholarships at UDM, the University of Michigan, where their children earned their degrees, and in Tennessee where they currently live. They also support other students privately.

“Our priority has

always been education,” he said. “And all kids need that helping hand.”

Carter kept in touch with Davis-Penn for years but, as time passed, the two lost touch. Davis later earned a doctorate in education with a specialty in gerontology and ran the National Center on Black Aged in Washington, D.C. Carter and his wife recently donated $250,000 to create a scholarship for students who graduate from Detroit’s Jalen Rose Leadership Acade-

Funds blight removal funding nationally.

This group was led by Sen. Debbie Stabenow, and supported through the personal commitment of JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon and Quicken Loans founder Dan Gilbert, as well as key support from Rev. Jesse Jackson and others.

Jackson, founder of Rainbow PUSH, which identifies business and contracting opportunities for minorities, was in Detroit to discuss the ancillary benefits of blight removal, advising that the increase in demolition presents prime opportunities for local and minority contractors to take advantage of the city’s blight removal initiatives and establish businesses to take on rehabilitation and renovation projects resulting from demolition.

my, which Carter helped found. It’s called the Dr. Dolores A. Davis-Penn Scholarship.

“When I got the call, that a scholarship was being named after me, I was stunned,” Davis-Penn, who lives in Florida now, said. “I am so honored and so humbled.” “What’s most significant to me is that what Dr. Davis-Penn did in terms of support speaks to her sincerity and integrity,” Carter said. “When someone goes above and beyond the way she did— and she didn’t have to do that, it tells something about that person. Davis-Penn said the work she did with Project 100, was something special.

“Of all my positions I’ve had in my career, the work I did with Project 100 was the most rewarding of my entire life,” she said.

On April 22, at the Spirit of UDM: Alumni Achievement Awards ceremony on the University’s McNichols Campus, Carter was honored for his distinguished career in business and philanthropy. Davis-Penn was there to share his honor.

From page A-1 “Mayor Duggan has not just taken the lead in Detroit Renaissance, but urban renaissance. …

I got a call one night around midnight from Brother John Graves, chairman of Rainbow PUSH who said there is a crisis looming in Detroit that may very well be the start of something great or the beginning of something deeper and worse,” recounted Jackson, regarding a $2 billion funding request for urban reconstruction which had stalled in Congress. Jackson, Wendell Anthony and a host of other political influencers were able to get the legislation passed and the dollars distributed. “Sludge is fudge,” Jackson said and his signature rhyming manner.

“First it started off as a demolition business and now with the

explosion of renovation and restoration it’s becoming a rebuilding business as well,” said Duggan.

City officials say the rapid blight removal pace coupled with the rise in housing renovation and rehabilitation is outpacing contractors’ ability to keep up with demand for demolition and reconstruction.

In 2015, 28 percent of all contracts let in Detroit were to minority and women owned businesses and 80 percent of those were to Detroit-based companies.

“In the next few weeks, we also expect to receive federal approval to expand the Hardest Hit Fund zones where we can spend these funds so our blight removal efforts can reach into even more of our neighborhoods,” concluded Duggan.

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

April 27 - May 3, 2016

Page A-5

Wayne County is fixing the roads, would like to do more

By Warren C. Evans Wayne County Executive

I recently met with some of the hardworking men and women of Wayne County’s Roads Division as we announced $30 million of projects to improve our roads. Wayne County crews will launch 16 major road projects this year impacting 21 communities.

Undertaking these projects is personally gratifying after devoting so much of my time as Wayne County Executive to balancing our budget. I am always cognizant of the impact our “tough choices” and “shared sacrifices” have on everyday people. Righting Warren C. Evans Wayne County’s fiscal ship, however, was necessary to marshal more resources to improve our roads and invest in other projects that benefit Wayne County residents.

To avoid repeating past mistakes, my administration will ensure we spend our road funding wisely. We are prioritizing our road and bridge work to provide the greatest benefit to the most people.

We are resurfacing Fenkell Road on Detroit’s west side and we are finally fixing the bridge on Jefferson Avenue that connects Southwest Detroit to River Rouge.

We’ve also invested $4 million in new equipment so our crews can do the job right. We purchased new salt/asphalt trucks outfitted with corrosion-resistant stainless steel boxes, meaning we won’t have to replace or repair them as often. We’re making prudent choices with your tax dollars.

While I’m proud of the smart investments and good work of Wayne Coun-

ty’s Roads Division, I’m also aware that many commuters feel we aren’t doing enough to improve our roads. They’re right. We aren’t doing enough.

I drive our roads every day. I feel those potholes like everyone else. It’s shameful how we’ve let our infrastructure deteriorate. Wayne County is home to the first street paved with concrete — Woodward Avenue — and the first urban expressway — the Davison. We should lead the world on roads instead of dodging potholes.

For counties and local communities, much of our road funding flows to us from state government and there isn’t enough to go around. A recent Detroit

Free Press editorial cited a report that Michigan is 50th, dead last among the states in municipal revenue growth and state investment in local government over the last decade.

For years, we’ve all watched with great frustration as Lansing failed to properly fund road repairs. Only when voters rejected Proposition One did Lansing, finally, decide to pass a roads bill, albeit an inadequate one.

Experts say Michigan needs to invest more than $2 billion in our roads now. The new roads bill raises only $1.2 billion. And it only raises this amount over a period of years as our roads continue to crumble. No matter how hard

my budget team strives to save every nickel or how efficiently our road crews work, we do not have the resources to properly fix all of our roads. Fixing our Michigan roads requires leaders who recognize the importance of fully funding our needed road repairs and reforming our broken system of funding local governments. We must provide our counties, cities and townships the needed resources to adequately provide the essential services (roads, parks, police, and schools) they are responsible for providing.

Until we get there, however, my administration is committed to making the most of the resources we do have.

Campaign surrogates vie for the black Vote at the 2016 NAN convention

By Joan H. Allen

star and business professor at Howard University, opened her remarks with a Scripture: “The most important name that’s in my name is that of Jesus Christ.”

(Associate Publisher, Daily Challenge)

During a plenary session on the 2016 presidential election at the National Action Network’s recent national convention, Rev. Al Sharpton said this year is historic, because it marks the first time that a white president will succeed a black president.

She admitted as a Trump supporter that “our agenda may not be designed to appease the people that are in this room.” But she ultimately decided to stay loyal to her friend and was present as the vice chair of the National Diversity Coalition for Trump to “advise people that may not look like us.” She expressed their desire to support job creation, small business and preserving faith and family.

“There’s no book I can study on what we ought to be doing,” said Sharpton.

That’s one of the reasons that Sharpton assembled a bipartisan panel of surrogates from both parties and representatives from a number of the presidential campaigns.

Sharpton continued: “At the end of the day, whether we like it or not, someone is going to succeed President Obama…They don’t care how angry we are, they don’t care how frustrated we are, they don’t care how much we do, unless we organize around an agenda that protects our interests.”

David Plouffe, senior vice president for policy at UBER, gave an overview on the political climate and lauded the accomplishments of the Obama administration.

“I believe history will regard him as a great president…after 100 years we finally brought health care reform to the U.S. of America. Our planet is in crisis… our nation is finally taking its own steps and leading the world in combating climate change. We were this close to sliding into a great depression.

“President Obama brought 73 months of job growth…and we’ve been preventing wars instead of starting them. But we can’t have criminal justice reform without economic opportunity. There’s nothing more important in the world than a presidential election in the U.S. of America.”

John Podesta, chairman of the 2016 Hillary Clinton presidential campaign, stressed that we must defend the progress that the president has made, whether that’s fighting Republican lawmakers on Capitol Hill who are still trying to re-

Rev. Al Sharpton said this year is historic because it marks the first time that a white president will succeed a black president. Photo taken during Senator Bernie Sanders keynote address at NAN’s 2016 national convention in New York City. (National Action Network) peal the Affordable Care Act or shining a spotlight on states that have passed regressive voting laws, that make it harder for citizens to vote.

“This is a campaign of division and exclusion,” said Podesta. “It’s going to take someone who’s tough, who’s proven they can get results and demonstrated her commitment to make everyone succeed, which Hillary has done throughout her career.”

Podesta talked about Clinton’s longstanding career working in social justice registering voters and getting juveniles out of prison, straight out of law school. As the First Lady of the United States, Clinton advocated for the Children’s Health Insurance Program, also known as CHIP, which covered eight million kids as first lady. There was a burst of applause when Podesta concluded by saying that he wanted to see history made, when for the first time, a woman

Rev. Omarosa Manigault, a surrogate for presidential candidate Donald Trump, said that his agenda may not be designed to appease the audience that attended the plenary session on the 2016 presidential election at NAN’s national convention in New York City.

(Wikimedia Commons) president follows a black president.

Armstrong Williams, the founder and CEO of the Graham Williams Group, was met with boos when he said, “Everything in America is not about race.”

But Williams was not deterred, responding, “I don’t mind the boos, I’m used to it. Americans whether they be Republican or Democrat are not enamored with the establishment.”

“Don’t let Republicans or Democrats, any longer, make empty promises and show up at your house, when they need your vote and then don’t deliver the things that you need,” once they’re elected.

Lawrence O’Donnell, the host of MSNBC’s “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell,” advised attendees to not only demand that candidates explain in detail how they plan to accomplish their campaign promises, but also push the political media to ask the candidates questions about their policies.

Rev. Omarosa Manigault, a reality TV

Ted Devine, senior advisor for the Bernie Sanders presidential campaign, praised President Barack Obama’s re-election, reminding us that President Obama was the first Democrat to win a re-election by the national popular vote twice since Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Devine credited Sanders for bringing so many young people into the process, like Obama did, and he underscored Sanders’ role as a student protester and activist and his desire to “change the culture of policing America and racial justice.”

Angela Rye, CEO of IMPACT Strategies, reflected on the racist backlash that President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama have endured throughout his presidency.

“Racism is alive and well in this country…because of this white anger and frustration, we now have one of the most polarized electorates in this country,” said Rye. “But we are powerful enough, our voices and votes mean enough to say, ‘Not in this country, not today and not ever.’”

Rye also urged the participants to go to the polls and cast their votes.

“You cannot afford to sit on the sidelines. Our ‘blackness’ matters,” said Rye. “We have to make sure our politicians are accountable to us.”

Joan H. Allen is associate publisher of the Daily Challenge and the host and executive producer of the television show “Inside New York.”

Page A-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • April 27 - May 3, 2016

Nobody loved Prince like Detroit, and he loved us back.

The Michigan Chronicle honors the memory of Prince Rogers Nelson, one of the greatest entertainers of all time.

June 7, 1958 - April 21, 2016

SECTION B ASK THE

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DOCTOR

April 27 - May 3, 2016

What is autism?

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which means it’s a disorder of brain development. Its onset is early, showing signs and symptoms typically by age two or three. The current umbrella term of Autism Spectrum Disorders includes previously separated subtypes such as Asperger’s and childhood disintegrative disorders.

Each person will have unique challenges, but the main difficulties relate to communication, social interaction and repetitive behaviors. For some the symptoms may be mild while others will be severely affected.

Examples of communication challenges: • Delayed speech development, such as not babbling in the first year of life.

• Not having conversations with others, but instead, talking on and on about a favorite topic.

Signs of impaired socialization: • They may not make eye contact • Prefer to play alone • Don’t seek comfort from their parents People with ASD are often described as disconnected. However, persons on the spectrum are often engaged and connected, but the ways they express it are difficult for others to understand. In fact, many people prefer to think of persons with autism as different, not disordered.

Repetitive or restricted behaviors: • Rocking, hand flapping or spinning • Repeating words or sounds • Intense, singular interests (obsessions) such as fans Other issues often found in people with ASD are intellectual disorders (formerly known as mental retardation), gastrointestinal (GI) problems, sensory integration difficulties and seizure disorders.

The prevalence has been increasing. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) 1 out of 68 children are on the spectrum.

This is a 10-fold increase in 40 years. We don’t know why, but the increase is not fully explained simply by improved diagnosis and awareness.

Boys are five times more likely to have autism than girls.

Detroit’s Lambda Chi Chapter of Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc., a professional nursing organizationare active members of the 2015 conference. All members of the organization are registered nurses. The Detroit chapter was founded in 1965.

Detroit welcomes 51st Middlewest Region Educational Conference, Chi Eta Phi’s annual meeting

By Donald James Special to the Chronicle

These are exciting times for the Lambda Chi Chapter of Chi Eta Phi Sorority, as the Detroit chapter welcomes the 51st Middlewest Region Educational Conference and Chi Eta Phi’s annual meeting to the Motor City. Under the banner theme: “Code Green and Yellow – Energizing and Mobilizing the Nursing Profession Towards Global Transformation,” the four-day event, Thursday, April 28 – Sunday, May 1, will convene at the Detroit Marriott-Renaissance Center.

“We are so excited about hosting this conference and annual meeting,” said Dr. Nutrena Tate, Chi Eta Phi Sorority’s Middlewest regional director. “Nursing professionals and nursing students from 12 states and 16 chapters will be in Detroit to learn more about issues and trends in our nursing profession.”

Tate said the conference will address and educate attendees, as it relates to health concerns prevalent in the African American community, which includes; hypertension, infant mortality and other health issues of relevancy.

“We will also address culturally competent nursing across the discipline, inclusive of education, practice, administration, and research,” said Tate, who is completing her first term as regional director, and is running unopposed for a second term.

“We want to make sure that our practice is culturally sensitive and culturally based.

So we want to learn more strategies and target interventions which will help the population that we take care of. We want to make sure that the things we do are tailored for them and to their unique needs.”

Tate said the Middlewest Region Educational Conference is expected to attract more than 300 people from Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Nursing professionals from other regions are also expected to attend.

According to Tate, the conference’s grand opening ceremony and reception will be held April 28 at 7 p.m. and is open to the general public, free of charge. Lisa Whitmore Davis, AARP’s associate state director for multicultural outreach and community engagement, will deliver the opening address.

Friday’s activities and events begin with a prayer breakfast, led by Tracey Ellis, First Lady of Citadel of Praise, who will also deliver the breakfast keynote address. Nursing professionals will have opportunities to attend various leadership, educational, and business workshops and meetings.

Workshop speakers and respective topics include: Carla Harwell, MD, Health Disparities in African American Women; Margaret Andrews, Ph.D., FAAN, CTN-A, RN, Global Nursing; and Jonnie Hamilton, DNP, PNPBC, NE-BC, RN, Secondary Traumatic Stress.

The Gladys Manzo Pathfinders Luncheon and Humanitarian Awards will headline Saturday’s agenda.

Dr. Eddie Connor, author, colDr. Nutrena Tate lege professor and radio/televisions correspondent, will keynote the luncheon, where three individuals will receive Gladys Manzo Pathfinders Humanitarian Awards.

“We will be honoring key community humanitarians, such as Leslie Andrews, director of community relations and corporate philanthropy for Rock Ventures LLC of the Quicken Loans family of companies. We will also honor Dr. Reginald J. Eadie, CEO of DMC Receiving, DMC Harper University, and DMC Hutzel Women’s Hospitals, as well as honor Frank McGhee, Neighborhood Service Organization’s program director.”

Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Incorporated is an organization comprised of more than 8,000 professional nurses and nursing students.

Founded in 1932 at Howard University in Washington, D.C., Chi Eta Phi now has chapters throughout the United States, as well as in such international locales as St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands and the Republic Liberia West Africa.

Chi’s Middlewest Region was formed in 1946. Its largest chapter is Lambda Chi Chapter of Detroit, which began in 1965.

Nationally, Lambda is also one of Chi’s largest chapters.

Tate is proud of Lambda Chi Chapter

and its contributions to the community and local nursing professionals as well as nursing students. According to Tate, there are three undergraduate nursing chapters in metro Detroit: the University of Michigan (Ann Arbor), University of Detroit Mercy and Wayne State University.

“Lambda Chi mentors these nursing students in order to help them learn more about the profession,” Tate said. “Chapter members also tutor them in various classes and help prepare nursing students for state exams. They also provide nursing students with needed scholarships.”

Tate, a Detroit native, understands the importance of mentorship, as she received much of it along her educational pathway to nursing more than two decades ago. After earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in pediatric nursing from the University of Michigan, Tate earned a Ph.D. in nursing research from Wayne State University.

Professionally, Tate, the wife of Detroit City Councilmember James Tate, has worked as a nurse practitioner at DMC’s Children’s Hospital of Michigan and St. John Providence Health Systems. She is currently a clinical assistant professor at Wayne State University, where she teaches pediatric nursing. Tate also conducts research projects that focus on the eradication of obesity in children of color.

As Chi’s Middlewest Region director, Tate’s objective is to also help her organization find ways in which to eradicate the shortage of nurses, especially as it pertains to African Americans in the field.

“There’s a huge shortage of nurses across the nation,” Tate said. “As many members of our society are getting older, getting sicker, and having more chronic illnesses, the need for nurses is tremendous right now. And, historically, African Americans represent less than eight percent of the total nursing population. [The numbers] are even less in administration, education, and research. So Chi Eta Phi Sorority, the Middlewest Region, and Lambda Chi Chapter will continue to address these shortages in our profession.”

For more information about the 51st Middlewest Region Educational Conference, log on to www.mwr-chietaphi.org.

For additional information about Chi Eta Phi Sorority, visit www.chietaphi.com, or to learn more about Lambda Chi Chapter, go to www.xhodetroit.org. Dr. Nutrena Tate can be reached, via email, at mwrdtate@ inbox.com.

New 2015 members of Lambda Chi Chapter, Chi Ea Phi Sorority, Inc., A professional nursing organization, are (seated from left) Vmeika Stephens, Vivian Lucas, Tishara Lewis, Bridget Howard and Deborah El-Amin.

Standing (from left) are Beverly Jackson, new membership chair; Nutrena Tate, regional director; and Janeice Hampton, chapter vice president.

In future editions we will cover treatment options and how to access programs and therapy; but know that there is hope and help for persons with autism, as well as their families and support systems. You can find more information online at sites such as Michigan.gov and Autism Speaks.

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

The Detroit Branch NAACP hosts 61st Annual Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner

Hillary Clinton

On Sunday May, 1 join the Detroit branch NAACP for the largest fundraising dinner in the country, the 61st Annual Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner. The crown jewel in a weekend of events that educate, elevate and celebrate, including the ACT-SO competition, the ­dinner is one of the region’s single night largest fundraisers. This year will prove to be no exception with the announcement of current Democratic presidential candidate and former United States Secretary of State Hillary Clin-

ton as the keynote speaker.

“The Detroit Branch NAACP is pleased to announce this lineup for the 61st Annual Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner,” says Rev. Anthony, President, Detroit Branch NAACP. “Our theme, ‘Let America be America Again,’ will be well represented by our keynote speaker and awardees, who come from different backgrounds and industries, but showcase what is good about having a diverse America.”

Chaired by Joseph Hin-

richs, Executive Vice President, President of the Americas of Ford Motor Company, this year’s awards portion of the dinner will honor local and national change makers who are creating inroads in the areas of diversity and inclusion, prison reform, education and voter rights. Among this year’s honorees are: the Honorable James Clyburn, Congressman, United States House of Representatives; City of Detroit Councilmember, Mary Sheffield; Detroit Federation of Teachers Union President, Ivy

Bailey, and activist, author and motivational Speaker Shaka Senghor.

The 61st Annual Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner will be held at Cobo Hall on Sunday, May 1. Doors open at 4 p.m. with the dinner starting promptly at 5 p.m. Tickets start at $150.00 per person.

For more information on the dinner and the work of the Detroit Branch NAACP, please call 313.871.2087 or visit them online at www.detroitnaacp.org.

community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

April 27 - May 3, 2016

Page B-2

Kids Opening Day at Comerica, a grand slam of an event

By Paul Warner

The Academy also has a dance fusion class, where students learn African dance, jazz, hip-hop and ballet dance styles.

Special to the Michigan Chronicle

Timbuktu Academy became involved in the Detroit Tiger’s kids opening day this on Sunday, April 4 via a much elcomed grant award.

Shamaya Moses, a 13-yearold student from Detroit, took in her first Tigers game at Kids Opening Day, but when asked if she had a interest in baseball she replied with an honest “no.”

As Timbuktu Academy principal Cha-Rhonda Edgerson explains; “Our third grade teacher Becky Burton wrote a grant for the Building Healthy Communities Grant, and as part of the grant we where chosen to be participants in this opening day.”

Kids Opening Day gave 85 Timbuktu students and 200 students overall between the ages of 5 and 14 a chance to exercise in center field at Comerica Park with Tigers training staff and team mascot, Paws, just moments before the Tigers first pitch against the Cleveland Indians. The eager, young participants received backpacks and tee shirts and enjoyed lunch before watching the Tigers lose to the Indians 6-3 from section 337 in the upper deck of the park.

Kids Opening Day’s purpose is to promote healthy lifestyles for youth, including exercise and diet, and creating habits that kids will take into their adult lives. Timbuktu student Aliaya Dumas already has an exercise plan in place. “I do push ups, and jumping jacks.”

For the Academy, the opening

The event inspired her though and encouraged her to change her exercise habits. “It was fun, it made me want to exercise more.” She does exercise though. “I exercise sometimes, but not on a regular basis.”

The only disappointment of the day was the Tigers loss to the Indians, which gave the Indians a three game sweep of the series. The Tigers have lost four in a row and seven out of their last nine.

day regiment is an extension of exercise programs already in place.

But the kids saw exactly why it’s good to exercise and work towards having a healthy body. Both of the games starting pitchers left the game early with injuries. Indians starter Carlos Carrasco left the game after jamming his leg covering first base on an infield grounder, and Tigers starter Shane Green left 15 minutes later after busting a blister on his throwing hand. A healthy body will get them back in the game sooner and help make the injuries less severe.

“[Opening day’s exercise program] was kind of a continuation of what we already started at school. We are a pretty healthy school.”

The Academy has a healthy kids club which walks before school, with a goal of walking the same number of miles it would take to get to Africa. The kids club will culminate with a walk-a-thon on May 19 that Building Healthy Communities is a part of.

Detroit’s University Prep High School debate team makes history Michigan Chronicle reports

Two young women from University Prep High School’s debate team have made history. Tamara Morrison and Tiera Colvin are the first-ever African American women’s team to win the National Association of Urban Debate League’s National Championship, placing first in a field of 39 teams from around the nation. The tournament was held at the City College of San Francisco and San Francisco State University on April 14 to April 17.

The competition brought together the top urban debate teams in the country, including

schools from Los Angeles, the San Francisco Bay Area, Silicon Valley, Denver, Dallas, St. Louis, Houston, Kansas City, Chicago, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Nashville, Atlanta, Baltimore, New York City and Boston as well as Detroit. Morrison and Colvin are also the first African American young women’s team to receive an invitation to the association’s Tournament of Champions hosted at the University of Kentucky at the end of April.

Representing the Detroit Urban Debate League, U Prep’s Morrison and Colvin posted a 5-1 win/loss record in six pre-

liminary debates before advancing to the elimination debates on Sunday, April 17 where they won all four elimination debates before besting Downtown Magnet HS from Los Angeles in the final debate. “At U Prep Schools our mission is to provide students with the courage to pursue a future full of opportunities, and what these two young ladies have achieved is not only courageous, but they have expanded their own horizons for the future,” said Mark Ornstein, CEO of University Prep Schools and Detroit 90/90. Ornstein continued, “We are extremely proud of Tiera and Tamara and the incredible

dedication of Sharon Hopkins, U Prep’s debate coach. The success that we have had with the debate team is nothing short of a Disney movie, where the underdog works hard and accomplishes amazing feats.”

U Prep, coached by Ms. Hopkins and U Prep alumni Rayvon Dean, won the national urban debate championship in 2014, marking this year as the second time in three years that a high school from Detroit has won this prestigious championship.

The Tournament of Champions is the weekend of April 29 and the young women’s final debate practice is Tuesday, April 26 at

U Prep High School. Both Morrison and Colvin have been offered scholarships to continue their debate careers in college.

Known as one of Detroit’s longest-standing tuition-free and non-profit public charter school systems, University Prep Schools encompasses two districts and seven campuses serving K-12 students from all corners of the city and beyond.

U Prep’s campuses were built by the Thompson Educational Foundation whose initiatives are focused on creating educational opportunities for Detroit youth.

Coming Spring 2016

Announcing the Michigan Chronicle/Talmer S.W.A.G. Scholarship Finalists The special edition of ACHIEVE will display the finalists for the Michigan Chronicle/Talmer S.W.A.G. Scholarship Award. Stay tuned to find out who won a scholarship.

For advertising and sponsorship opportunities call 313.963.5522

community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

April 27 - May 3, 2016

Page B-3

Cass Tech celebrates 100 years Cass Technical High School Alumni Association’s (CTAA) Centennial Celebration Hall of Fame Committee announced that Cass Technical High School alumni and athletes Wendy Hilliard and Lynnette Love would be awarded Top Athletes of the Century and inducted into its Athlete Hall of Fame.

CTAA is celebrating its 100th year anniversary in 2016 and hosting a multitude of events and celebrations throughout the year. During the 100-Year Centennial Celebration, the Centennial Committee will recognize coaches, teams and individual athletes along, with their accomplishments over the past 100 years, in an effort to inspire Cass Technical High School graduates and current students to become future leaders.

Class of 1978 graduate Wendy Hilliard has long been a major force in Women’s, Olympic and community sports. Wendy Hilliard was the first African American to represent the U.S. in international competition and also to serve as president of the Women’s Sports Foundation. Hilliard is also the founder of Wendy Hilliard Gymnastics Foundation (WHGF), a not-for-profit organization that provides free and low-cost quality gymnastics for inner-city youth in Harlem, New York. She also recently announced that after 20 years of successful programming, the WHGF will be expanding and providing gymnastics programs in Detroit, in fall 2016.

“Inspiring local youth to empower themselves through the sport of gymnastics is such a rewarding experience and being named Top Athlete of the Century is the icing on

the cake on an extraordinary year,” said WHGF founder Wendy Hilliard.

“I am honored to receive this award and to provide my hometown with new opportunities in gymnastics.”

Hilliard remained on the Rhythmic Gymnastics National Team for a record-setting nine times; serving twice as national team captain, but early in her career she had to fight for her spot on the team. In 1983, Hilliard was denied a spot on the World Championship Group Routine. The coach said that she stood out too much for the synchronized routine.

She challenged the decision and U.S.A. Gymnastics then selected the team based on the ranking from the National Championships, which allowed Hilliard to participate in her third World Championship. It was the pivotal incident that set the stage for her long career as an advocate for an athlete’s right to compete.

Hilliard went on to compete in the 1984 Olympic trials and traveled to more than 15 foreign countries. She is a four-time U.S. National Team Coach, who also coached 1996 Olympian, Aliane Baquerot Wilson.

She was the first African American president of the Women’s Sports Foundation, an Olympic Sportscaster and Broadway performer. She was also was the Director of Sports for the New York City 2012 Olympic Bid. In 2008, Hilliard was inducted into the U.S.A. Gymnastics Hall of Fame.

Lynnette Love, Class of 1975 graduate, is also being submitted for enshrinement to the circle of honor. She is a Wayne State University graduate

Link Detroit Partners mark completion of $21 million Greenways Project To celebrate the completion of its $21 million greenways project, Link Detroit partners will host a Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony featuring Senator Debbie Stabenow and Mayor Mike Duggan on Friday, April 29 from 2-3:30 p.m. and a Community Celebration from 11a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, April 30 at the Wilkins Street Plaza and Dequindre Cut Greenway extension in Eastern Market.

Link Detroit Senator Debbie Stabenow, project connects Mayor Mike Duggan and representatives from partner orga20 miles of nizations, such as the City of continuous walkDetroit Department of Public ing and biking Works, Community Foundapaths linking tion for Southeast Michigan, Downtown, MidEastern Market Corporation, Midtown Detroit Inc., Michigan town, Department of Transportation, Detroit Riverfront, Michigan Department of Natural Eastern Market Resources, Detroit RiverFront and Hamtramck Conservancy and more will participate in a program and ceremonial ribbon cutting on the new Dequindre Cut extension. The program will begin promptly at 2:30 p.m.

The ceremony will mark the completion of five greenway projects that improve connections between major attractions such as the Detroit RiverWalk, Dequindre Cut, Eastern Market, Hamtramck and the cultural and educational institutions of Midtown.

The public is invited to enjoy a variety of activities throughout the day on Saturday along the new section of the Dequindre Cut Greenway and the new Wilkins Street Plaza. The Link Detroit Completion Celebration is made possible with support from the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan and features: • Music & entertainment • Food trucks • Rickshaw Detroit Pedicab rides • Greening of Detroit activities • Wheelhouse Detroit bicycle rentals • Learn more about cycling in Detroit with information from Detroit Greenways Coalition, Tour de Troit, Slow Roll, Back Alley Bikes and more.

• Guests are encouraged to bike, walk and explore the Eastern Market district and the Link Detroit connections to Midtown, the Detroit Riverfront and Hamtramck.

To participate and join the fun meet at Wilkins Street Plaza at the corner of Wilkins and Orleans in Eastern Market. Parking is available in the lot across from the Detroit Market Garden.

and a former U.S.A. Olympian in Taekwondo. Today, Love operates Love’s Tae Kwon Do Academy.

She received a Gold Medal in the 1988 Seoul Olympics and a Bronze Medal in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. Love honed her skills at Howard University. Love’s outstanding career spans over 24 years, making her the most decorated woman athlete in Tae Kwon Do history.

Love’s accomplishments have landed her a spot in The Guinness Book of World Records and extraordinary titles including: Three World Championships, Two Olympic Medals, 10 National Championships and five Pan American titles. Upon retirement, Love went on to coach the US National Team at the World Championships, World Cup and Pan Am Games earning the USOC Developmental Coach of the Year title.

In addition to being awarded Top Athletes of the Century and inducted into the CTHSAthlete Hall of Fame, the CTAA Centennial Hall of Fame Committee is planning to nominate Lynnette Love and Wendy Hilliard for the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame, October 1, 2016.

Arthritis Foundation and St. John Providence host ‘Your Joints Your Weight’ Thirty-one percent of Michigan’s population has arthritis, including 2.3 million adults and 10,300 kids

healthy knees and hips and the role of proper nutrition and weight management.

The Arthritis Foundation and St. John Providence have teamed up to offer an educational forum where arthritis patients, caretakers and health care service providers have the opportunity to learn more about arthritis. The program will be held on Tuesday, May 10, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Silver Gardens Event Center in Southfield.

Losing excess weight can reduce the risk of knee osteoarthritis and limit progression of the disease. Losing as little as 11 pounds may reduce the risk of developing knee osteoarthritis by 50 percent. Weight loss programs incorporating both exercise and dietary restriction are the most effective and result in significant improvements in pain and function.

Named “Your Joints Your Weight,” the event will feature St. John Providence health care professionals leading classes and sharing information and resources about the prevention of arthritis, managing arthritis pain and lifestyle choices for better joint health.

Participants will learn about options for

The program is free to attend, however, registration is required. To register, go to www.stjohnforum.kintera.org or call 248-530-5029. For more information, contact Chasity Savage at 248-5305026 or csavage@arthritis.org.

HIRAM E. JACKSON Publisher

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

(313) 963-5522 e-mail:newsdesk@michronicle.com April 27 - May 3, 2016

Page B-4

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

Payday lending is an abomination, says Baptist preacher

By Charlene Crowell NNPA News Wire Columnist

Every once in a while a congressional committee hearing can almost seem like a time to grab your popcorn and a seat to hear the exchanges and varying opinions. On April 5, a U.S. Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee hearing on consumer finance regulations became one such occasion. The session was convened to publicly “assess the effects of consumer finance regulations.”

In plain English, it was a time to publicly debate whether the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) had been good or bad for the country, since opening operations in July 2011.

The forum also hearkened back Charlene Crowell to many of the former supporters and opponents of proposals to reform Wall Street in the aftermath of the worst economic crisis since that of the 1930s.

Alabama’s Sen. Richard Shelby, chair of Senate Banking has consistently opposed the idea of creating an independent bureau with a director instead of a commission and a budget that would not be subject to the annual budgetary appropriations process.

“Because of the Bureau’s structure and the means by which it is financed, it remains one of the least accountable agencies in the federal government,” said Sen. Shelby in his opening remarks.

Conversely, Ohio’s Sen. Sherrod Brown, the committee’s Ranking Member, has just as vociferously supported financial reforms to shield consumers from further harms.

“The CFPB has been a success,” stated Sen. Brown. “The agency has taken strong actions in a number of consumer finance markets that previously had no federal oversight, including credit reporting, debt collection, payday loans, student loan servicing, and auto finance. The benefits of the CFPB are clear: its actions have resulted in $11.2 billion being returned to over 25 million consumers.”

The only hearing witness that spoke in support of all that CFPB has accomplished was Reverend Dr. Willie Gable, Jr., pastor of New Orleans’ Progressive

Baptist Church and chair of the Housing and Economic Development Commission of the National Baptist Convention, USA. He brought to the forum a bit of Baptist cadence and truth-telling to the Capitol Hill committee, underscoring the damage that predatory lending continues to inflict. His perspective was also a significant one representing the National Baptist Convention USA with its 7,500,000 Baptist congregants. It is the oldest and largest religious convention in the nation.

“Twelve million families lost their homes as a result of the financial crisis,” stated Rev. Gable’s written testimony. “Twelve million. Lives turned upside down. Life savings washed away. $2.2 trillion in lost property value, over half from communities of color.”

In its comments submitted to the committee record, the Center for Responsible Lending (CRL) agreed with Rev. Gable’s assessment.

As this column has earlier reported, the families who lost their homes to foreclosure since 2004 were not the only victims of the crisis. Untold millions who lived nearby foreclosed homes may have kept theirs, but became upside down on their mortgages, owing more than the devalued homes are now worth. The rippling effects of foreclosures nationwide led to multiple losses – jobs, businesses, incomes, and even local property taxes that support vital services like police, fire and emergency medical assistance.

“But other abuses continue to run rampant,” continued Rev. Gable. “Some may be more obscure than mortgage lending, but they are ever powerful, ever destructive…Payday lending is an abomination in plain sight. A debt trap by design.”

In his allotted five minutes, Rev. Gable cited a litany of other lending ills: bank overdraft fees, discriminatory auto lending, law-breaking debt collectors, student debt and those who prey upon the elderly.

“Please allow me to be clear: The notion that struggling Americans need access to products like those the Bureau has been working so hard to address is an insult to the basic dignity of every vulnerable person,” concluded Rev. Gable. “The predatory practices CFPB is addressing siphon off what little resources targeted persons have and leave them worse off. . . Uncontrolled predatory lending practices will relegate some communities to a state of perpetual poverty.”

What about black women?

By Julianne Malveaux The Sewell Belmont House housed the National Women’s Party in Washington DC. It is one of the oldest houses near the United States Capitol, and was the house where Alice Paul wrote the 19th Amendment that granted women the right to vote.

On April 12, Equal Pay Day, President Obama designated the house the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument.

The National Park System will manage the site, and a philanthropist has Julianne Malveaux donated a million dollars to support the site and to provide some restorations to the house.

Equal Pay Day is the day that the average woman would have to work to earn as much as a man did in the previous year, if women earn 78 cents to every dollar men earn. But African American women earn a scant 63 cents to the average man’s dollar. A black woman would have to work until around August 1 to earn as much as a man did in the previous year. As alarming as that fact is, it is equally alarming that few mention Equal Pay Day in a racial context.

It would have meant a lot to some African American women had President Obama mentioned other inequality in passing. It would not have distracted from the important points he made when he designated the new monument.

After all, the press release from the White House talked about “America’s diverse history.” The disparate treatment of African American women is certainly part of that history.

To be sure, President Obama has done a good job in addressing the issue of equal pay and fair treatment of women in the workplace. His first piece of legislation, the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, gave women a longer time to sue for workplace discrimination.

He has also created a National Equal Pay Task Force and, through executive order, prohibited federal contractors from discriminating against workers who discuss their pay. In the non-federal workplace, employees can be disciplined, or even fired, if they discuss their pay. Indeed, the reason there are such gaping pay gaps is because there is so little transparency about pay. From legislation he has supported, and discretionary acts he has taken, President Obama would likely do more to close the gender pay gap were there a more cooperative Congress.

Clearly, pay equity is not a priority for this Congress.

President Obama has been an aggressively pro-family president. From his support of an increased minimum wage, to his advocacy for paid sick leave (including an executive order for federal contractors), to his support for better overtime regulations, the president has strongly supported workplace fairness.

It takes nothing from his strong commitment to women, though, to acknowledge that African American women earn less, and that Equal Pay Day comes much later for them (and for Latina women, who would have to work until November 1 to earn the same amount a man earned last year) than it does for other women.

Surrounded by three intelligent and beautiful African American females — Michelle, Sasha and Malia — it would be impossible for our president to be unaware of the challenges that African American women face. While I am aware that this president prefers not to deal with race matters, in this last year of his presidency, he ought to consider doing so.

If black women can be fodder for a silly off-the-cuff remark, surely we ought to get enough serious policy consideration for our pay equity issues to be addressed.

August 1 is Equal Pay Day for African American women. We work harder, longer` and for less remuneration than other women do.

What are we going to do about it?

A call to arms to end Chicago’s shame

By Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. “The community’s lack of trust in C.P.D. (Chicago Police Department) is justified,” so concluded the blistering, in-depth report of the Police Accountability Task Force, set up by Mayor Rahm Emanual after the uproar surrounding the fatal police shooting of Laquan McDonald.

After a fourmonth investigation, the task force pulled no punches.

“CPD’s own data,” it concluded, “gives validity to the widely held belief the police have no regard for the sanctity of life when it comes to people of Jesse Jackson color.” It detailed a long pattern of institutionalized racial abuse: unjustified stops, physical abuse, torture, detention without counsel, shootings, and more.

The task force backed its conclusions with data drawn from the CPD’s own files. Blacks, whites and Hispanics each make up about one-third of the population of Chicago. Yet African Americans constituted three out of every four people that CPD tried to Taser. In addition, 74 percent of the 404 people shot by the Chicago police between 2008 and 2015 were black.

The task force also noted that the system itself was designed to be unaccountable. It singled out police union contracts, urging changes in clauses that “make it easy for officers to lie in official reports,” give officers 24 hours to get their stories right, ban anonymous citizen complaints, and more. The contracts “have essentially turned the code of silence into official policy.”

The task force chair, former federal prosecutor Lori Lightfoot, called the report a “call to arms.” It made more than 100 recommendations for change, including creating a new independent civilian oversight panel and a dedicated, independent police inspector general.

Two Chicago aldermen have already introduced draft ordinances to move on these recommendations. The task force recommendations included everything from diversifying the police force, to adding body cams, to changing police

patrols and more.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel met with the task force to review the report. His curt public response was disappointing: “I don’t really think you need a task force to know that we have racism in America, we have racism in Illinois, or that there’s racism that exists in the city of Chicago and obviously could be in our department … The question is, what are we going to do to confront it and make the changes in not only personnel but in policies to reflect, I think, the values that make up the diversity of our city?”

Emanuel said his “general attitude” was to “look at everything they say,” but then went silent, saying he wanted to review the recommendations before commenting.

Chicago, with the number of shootings rising in recent months, needs an effective police force that has the community’s trust. According to a recent Chicago Tribune editorial, this is the seventh such report, each generally issued after another corruption-related scandal. Real reform can no longer be put off. We need serious steps to diversify the police force, to train police, to stop racial profiling, to restructure police-community relations, to enforce accountability and the law.

If Mayor Emanuel won’t lead, the City Council need not wait to take action. And the city’s powerful business community also must demand accountability. As the New York Times wrote in a powerful editorial on “Chicago’s shame,” “Chicago’s business leaders should be sickened that it took the execution of a teenager for the city’s elected leaders to begin to face up to the truth about the Police Department — a truth that the black community has been saying for decades.”

Yet, even if the task force’s recommendations are adopted, that is only a first step. The CPD is guilty of a long, racially biased institutionalized pattern of abuse. But they are also tasked with enforcing order over communities in despair, plagued by poverty, unemployment, drugs, guns and a lack of hope.

We must reform the police. But we also need a program for urban development, jobs, schools and hope. Without that, the streets will remain hard and ugly, and the people will continue to suffer.

Recognizing all of America’s sheroes

By Marian Wright Edelman NNPA News Wire Columnist

Every day I wear a pair of medallions around my neck with portraits of two of my role models: Harriet Tubman and Sojourner Truth. As a child I read books about Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad.

She and indomitable and eloquent slave woman Sojourner Truth represent countless thousands of anonymous slave women whose bodies and minds were abused and whose voices were mutMarian Wright ed by slavery, Jim Edelman Crow, segregation and confining gender roles throughout our nation’s history. Although Harriet Tubman could not read books, she could read the stars to find her way north to freedom.

And she freed not only herself from slavery, but returned to slave country again and again through forests and streams and across mountains to lead other slaves to freedom at great personal danger. She was tough. She was determined. She was fearless. She was shrewd and she trusted God completely to deliver her, and other fleeing slaves, from pursuing captors who had placed a bounty on her life. “’Twa’nt me. ’Twas the Lord. I always told Him, I trust You. I don’t know where to go or what to do, but I expect You to lead me. And He always did…On my underground railroad, I never ran my train off the track and I never lost a passenger,” she was quoted as saying. No train, bus or airline company can match this former slave woman’s safety record.

And few of us could match her faith-

ful partnership with God, determination to be free and willingness to help others to be free without thought about self-sacrifice.

The entire nation will pay public homage to Harriet Tubman’s devotion to freedom, and also honor Sojourner Truth and other great women and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. who never stopped demanding and working to assure that America lives up to its declared creed of freedom, life, liberty, pursuit of happiness and equality for all.

Kudos to the Treasury Department which has announced that Harriet Tubman’s face will grace the front of the redesigned $20 bill, making her the first woman in more than a century and first African American ever to be represented on the face of an American paper note.

And it’s wonderful that she will not be alone. Sojourner Truth and women suffragette activists and leaders will be featured on the back of the $10 bill.

Great contralto and opera singer Marian Anderson, for whom I was named and about whom great conductor Arturo Toscanini said “yours is a voice such as one hears once in a hundred years,” will be featured on the back of the $5 bill.

Mrs. Roosevelt and Dr. King will grace the back of the $5 bill rounding out the inspiring group of determined moral warriors who expanded the civil and human rights of women, people of color and all of us.

It is so important to make sure all of our children can see their ancestors pictured on something as basic as the money used every day by countless millions and this will deepen the meaning of how we define success in America.

And to Black children who remain the poorest group in America, I hope Harriet Tubman and Sojourner Truth become anchor reminders of their great heritage of strength, courage, faith and belief in the equality of women and people of every color.

community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

April 27 - May 3, 2016

Page B-5

HAP title sponsor of 2016 Brooksie Way Race Investment supports commitment to community health and wellness Health Alliance Plan (HAP) announced it will be the title sponsor of the 2016 Brooksie Way race, which will be held September 25 at Oakland University in Rochester, Mich. The Brooksie Way is one of Oakland County’s premier quality-of-life events, encouraging people to become more physically active and supporting programs that foster an active lifestyle. The sponsorship represents HAP’s continued dedication to promoting health and wellness in the communities it serves.

“The Brooksie Way has a tradition of inspiring Oakland County residents and others across Michigan to choose healthy habits through running, walking, jogging or other activities that promote an active lifestyle,” said DeAndre Lipscomb, vice president, marketing and community outreach, Health Alliance Plan. “HAP is proud to support this event with its significant impact on improving community wellness, which aligns with HAP’s mission to enhance the health and well-being of the lives we touch.”

Downtown street closures coming to Detroit The Detroit Department of Public Works announced the following street closings which will impact traffic patterns and drive time for Detroit workersand residents.

• Westbound Cadillac between Woodward and Bates will be closed completely now through Oct. 22, 2016 for street activities.

Other Street Closures • Westbound lanes on Michigan Ave from Griswold to Shelby will be closed completely from now through September 2016 for building renovation.

However, one lane in each direction for both eastbound and westbound traffic is open at all times, using the eastbound lanes.

• State Street (south side) from Griswold to Shelby will have a partial lane closure of eastbound lane and sidewalk from now through May 1, 2016 for building renovation.

• Shelby from State Street and alley south of State will have a partial closure of the northbound lane from now through May 1, 2016 for building renovation.

• Jefferson, Larned, E. Grand River, Times Square, St. Anne, and Lafayette will have intermittent traffic detours to perform fiber cable work from now through June 15, 2016 from 5 p.m. to 7 a.m.

• Congress from Woodward to Bates will have northern westbound lane and sidewalk closed for building renovation from now through Oct. 31, 2016.

• Woodward from Gratiot to Michigan will be closed for M-1 Rail crossover construction from now through May 21, 2016.

• Griswold from W. Grand River to John R will have northbound lane and parking lane closed from now through June 2017 for building renovation. Howev-

er, one lane in each direction will be maintained.

• Cadillac Square from Woodward to Bates will have parking lanes closed from now through Oct. 29, 2016 for Food Huts Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. However, two lanes in each direction will be maintained.

• John R between EB I-75 SD and Montcalm will be closed completely from Apr. 27, 2016 through May 3, 2016 for garage construction.

• East Jefferson between East Grand Blvd and Lakewood partially closed through Apr. 29, 2016 for soil boring.

• St. Antoine at Beacon will have be partially closed now through Apr. 24, 2016 for cable installation.

• Eastbound E Grand River between Center and Madison will be closed completely from Apr. 27, 2016 through Apr.29, 2016 for cable installation.

• Westbound E Grand River between Center and Broadway will be partially closed from Apr. 27, 2016 through Apr.29, 2016 for cable installation.

• Mt. Elliott from Evaline to Mound will be closed for bridge reconstruction from now through May 16, 2016.

• East Jefferson from Beaufeit to Bellevue will be partially closed from now through May 1, 2016 for reconstruction of overpass/bridge. One westbound lane and two eastbound lanes will be open at all times • Montcalm from John R to I-75 service drive will be closed completely now through Apr. 27, 2016 for garage construction.

• Prentis between Third and the Alley west of Cass will be partially closed from now through May 6, 2016 for fiber installation.

The HAP title sponsorship is a continuation of the partnership the Brooksie Way had with Flint-based HealthPlus of Michigan, which merged with HAP earlier this year. HealthPlus had served as title sponsor since 2013.

“HAP and HealthPlus have each supported the Brooksie Way in previous years,” said Lipscomb. “So we appreciate the fact that the merging of HealthPlus into HAP has created this opportunity for HAP to serve as the title sponsor of the race that means so much to this community.”

The race is named in honor of Brooks Stuart Patterson, who died in 2007 following a snowmobile accident.

His father, Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson, created the Brooksie Way as a way to promote Oakland County and encourage people to become more physically active.

Since its inception in 2007, the Brooksie Way has had more than 31,000 participants from 15 states nationwide.

Last year’s race had 5,500 participants. The race also offers a training program, which is expected to prepare 400 participants to run or walk the race in 2016.

Proceeds from the race are distributed through “Brooksie Way Minigrants” to support non-profit health and fitness programs that encourage a healthy and active lifestyle. By the end of 2016, approximately $175,000 in minigrants will have been awarded to Oakland County organizations.

The HAP Brooksie Way includes 10k, 5k and Fun Run events. For more information, visit thebrooksieway.com.

Health Alliance Plan is a Michigan-based, nonprofit health plan that provides health coverage to more than 675,000 members and companies of all sizes. For more than 50 years, HAP has partnered with leading doctors and hospitals, employers and community organizations to enhance the health and well-being of the lives we touch.

HAP offers a product portfolio with six distinct product lines: Group Insured Commercial, Individual, Medicare, Medicaid, Self-Funded and Network Leasing. HAP excels in delivering award-winning preventive services, disease management and wellness programs, and personalized customer service.

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SBA celebrates Obama’s ‘My Brother’s Keeper’ 2nd anniversary The U.S. Small Business Administration is celebrating the second anniversary of President Obama’s My Brother’s Keeper initiative today by announcing the release of three new short films in the Millennial Entrepreneurship Video Series. The full series is hosted by Mike Muse, the SBA MBK Millennial Entrepreneurs Champion, and features six successful millennial entrepreneurs who share their stories of inspiration and success.

The six-part video series, titled “Biz My Way,” encourages millennials to follow their passion in business and highlights millennial entrepreneurs from different professions ranging from technology to fashion and music.

The first of the three new videos will be released today and feature founder of social media marketing company Being Latino, Lance Rios.

The other two videos announced today will feature digital innovator and owner of media agency Iced Media Reggie Miller, video to be released April 26, and entrepreneur and private chef to the stars Chef Max Hardy, video to be released May 2. Shot documentary style, each entrepreneur reveals their paths to entrepreneurship. The series was launched in November with a video featuring Beyoncé’s stylist and designer Ty Hunter.

‘My Brother’s Keeper’is President’s Obama’s initiative to empower young people, particularly young men of color, to improve their life outcomes and overcome barriers to success. The MBK Millennial Entrepreneurs Champion initiative formally began in June 2015, when SBA Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet empowered Mike Muse to think creatively on how to engage the Millennial generation in the hopes it would elevate awareness around entrepreneurship. Additionally, he was tasked with developing innovative ways to unite millennials with industry experts in an effort to help shift various lifestyle categories of business in a more inclusive direction.

Lance Rios (Release Date April 22) is the founder of Being Latino a leading Hispanic social media marketing firm. Forbes called him “one of the Latino sphere’s most interesting innovators.” Lance shares how his knowledge of the bilingual, bicultural Latino population in the United States which propelled him to start Being Latino - a passion project that ultimately turned into a full-fledged multi-million dollar company.

Reggie Miller (Release Date April 26) is the founder of Iced Media and leads digital, social and mobile strategies for some of the industry’s most trusted brands and Fortune 500 companies. He reveals his secrets for creating a successful digital marketing firm.

Chef Maxcel Hardy (Release Date May 2) Maxcel Hardy is a private chef, author and philanthropist who went from NBA hopeful to cooking for NBA players and the private aviation industry. Chef Max proves the recipe for success is part passion with a dash of belief and persistence.

On June 19, 2015, Mike Muse was appointed as the SBA My Brother’s Keeper Millennial Entrepreneur Champion. Together, with the U.S. Small Business Administration, Muse will provide education, exposure, support, and coaching to help entrepreneurs create businesses that benefit themselves and enrich their communities.

Prince the businessman as significant as Prince the musician

By Eric Easter Urban News Service

W

hile much of the coverage of Prince’s death focuses on the artist’s musical legacy, he may have an equally lasting impact on the music business itself. The Strokes, The Black Keys, Alabama Shakes — the list of popular musicians who cite Prince as a guiding influence is too long to mention. Yet today’s generation of artists, particularly those who have eschewed the old way of doing business, have Prince to thank as well.

His highly public dispute with Warner over ownership of his music, and the use of his stature to educate others about the business of creating and performing, transformed how musicians began to think about control of their own careers. Through his high-profile battles for creative freedom, Prince shed light on the vague details of contract law, the power of copyright, the threat of bootlegging and the illegal usage of recording artists’ images.

In that respect, Prince followed in the footsteps of Sam Cooke and James Brown, who were among the few musicians to make aggressive claims for rights over their work and distribution before it came into vogue. Even his contemporary Michael Jackson, whose quirky public image and quiet demeanor masked a shrewd business acumen, focused on ownership of his own music and that of others.

“There is a reason why your favorite rapper brags about owning his or her masters and controlling their future,” said Kevin Gibbs, a musicologist and rock critic who also served as an executive at the Epic and Def Jam labels. “They learned that from him. Today, every artist coming in the door tries to do contractually what Prince fought to do, but they come with a whole lot less leverage, of course.”

Prince’s decision to change his name to an unpronounceable symbol during the Warner dispute, while widely criticized and joked about, gave the performer powerful legal grounds to record, own and distribute music at his own pace. With the advent of the internet, Prince pioneered and embraced the concept of using the web for audience interaction (a decade before the creation of social media).

As early as the 1990s, the artist sought to bypass

the power of music distributors with a direct-sale model for his double-album “ Crystal Ball.” Yet his bold use of the internet also led Prince to predict the web’s devastating impact on music distribution, particularly on how artists can profit from their work.

He decried streaming services such as Pandora and Spotify for the small amounts they paid to recording artists, yet eventually acquiesced to the reality of business by offering a small selection of music to a handful of streaming companies, including TIDAL. Prince also saw YouTube and social media’s increased reliance on unauthorized video, audio and photos as serious infringements on rights. He built a legal infrastructure to combat unauthorized used of hiscopyright. His concerts famously forbade cellphones in order to save rights to his work, as well as spare audiences from being distracted during the performance.

Most notably, Prince’s independence from record labels shaped a new revenue model from dependence on royalties to direct-to-consumer sales via the internet and live performances. Both models now form the core of how the music business derives most of its income.

Taylor Swift’s decision in 2015 to abandon Spotify in favor of better royalties and fairer treatment from Apple Music is a direct descendant of Prince’s actions. The same can be said of singer Tyrese Gibson, whose recent top-selling album was promoted largely on the artist’s Instagram account and distributed without the aid of a record company. According to Gibson, Prince was also “ one of the first to employ the use of one-offs with his songs — letting whatever label he chose distribute his music. Jay Z took a page from that playbook with Roc Nation.”

After nearly two decades of lawsuits, Prince won back the right to his masters in 2012, an event Warner called “scary,” fearing a possible deluge of releases that, similar to opening a new cache of diamonds, would flood the market and devalueroyalties from their own holdings. “He shed light on many important aspects of the recording business that may have been overlooked by many,” said Gibbs. “He taught musicians the importance of controlling your brand and having the last say in what you would allow to be done with your music. ... He sacrificed a lot of potential revenue, time and energy to help others learn how to protect themselves and be true to their vision.”

Ford Freedom Award celebrates Men of Courage: Advancing the Narrative of African American Men Michigan Chronicle Reports

Ford Motor Company, in collaboration with the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, will celebrate the positive contributions of African American men at the 18th annual Ford Freedom Award program.

This year’s theme – Men of Courage: Advancing the Narrative of African American Men – will celebrate achievements of the past, present and future, while highlighting select African American men for their diverse, complex and valiant stories. The program recognizes the empowering impact of these men on their families and communities, along with their servant leadership, professional excellence and personal courage.

The Ford Freedom Award event takes place May 17, 6-9 p.m., at Max M. & Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center (DSO Or-

chestra Hall) in Detroit. Tickets are $50 per person. A limited number of platinum VIP reception tickets – which include champagne and a red carpet experience – are available for $150. To purchase tickets or for additional event information, call the music center box office, 313.576.5111, or visit www.fordfreedomaward.com.

“Ford is proud to join the Wright Museum in saluting the positive contributions of African American men,” said Ziad Ojakli, group vice president, government and community relations, Ford Motor Company. “Their leadership through family, business and philanthropy has been felt throughout American communities. They are true unsung heroes, and we are proud to honor such a diverse and accomplished group of men this year.”

The Ford Freedom Award honoree is a distinguished African American who dedicated

his or her life to improving the African American community and the world at large. This year’s recipient is the late Reginald F. Lewis, a business tycoon, Wall Street lawyer and philanthropist renowned for his character, generosity and business acumen.

This year’s Ford Freedom Award scholar is Dave Bing, founder and chairman, Bing Youth Institute, an NBA Hall of Famer and the 62nd mayor of Detroit. The scholar serves as a living legacy, carrying forth the ideals of the honoree and furthering those achievements for a new generation.

In addition, Ford will present the inaugural Ford Courage Awards honoring three courageous individuals in the areas of family, community and sports. The newly added People’s Choice Ford Courage Award will be presented to Shaka Senghor, criminal justice reform advocate, TED Talks

presenter and New York Times best-selling author. Senghor was selected via an online nomination video contest established in part through the Men of Courage project.

Other Ford Courage Award honorees expected to be on hand include Kerlin Blaise, former NFL player and successful businessman, president and owner of Blaze Contracting; and Jonathan Butler, University of Missouri graduate student activist and hunger striker. Grammy-nominated artist Angie Stone and hip hop icon Doug E. Fresh will perform.

“The Ford Freedom Award provides the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History a unique platform to pay tribute to some of America’s greatest influencers,” said Juanita Moore, president and CEO, The Wright Museum.

“Honoree Reginald Lewis, who was undoubtedly influenced by African American trailblazers

that came before him, understood the fundamental importance of African American history in inspiring others to blaze their own trails.”

Ford Motor Company’s support of the African American community dates back to the early 20th century when it was the largest employer of African Americans in the auto industry. Now, Ford is building on that support with signature initiatives that include Ford Freedom Unsung, Ford Blue Oval Scholars and Historically Black Colleges and Universities Community Challenge.

The Ford Freedom Award program is made possible by a grant from Ford Motor Company Fund, the charitable arm of Ford Motor Company. Proceeds from the Ford Freedom Award event will benefit the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, which is observing its 51st anniversary.

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April 27 - May 3, 2016

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23rd Annual Women’s Power Breakfast provides nutritious meals for hungry students

By Tatiana Simone

Imagine over hearing a child tell another student he hasn’t had a meal since yesterday’s lunch. This is the reality for more than 300,000 southeastern Michigan Children, roughly 48 percent, who rely on free or reduced-fee lunch.

Gerry Brisson, Andra Rush, Nancy Schlichting and FayeNelson enjoy Women’s Power Breakfast.

Photo Credit: ElayneGrossPhotograph

Maureen Stapleton Betty Brooks and Fran Parker attend and lend support for meals program.

Gina Coleman and Vivian Pickard also help provide meals.

On Thursday, April 21, 650 powerful women, leaders in our community, came together with a goal to provide a million meals for hungry children in metro Detroit. Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeastern Michigan (Gleaners) held it’s 23rd annual Women’s Power Breakfast at Detroit’s historic Eastern Market with title sponsor PNC Bank who matched the number of meals per dollar.

Gleaners currently provides food to over 130 schools in the metro Detroit area with another 200 on the waiting list. The Million Meals Match campaign will provide five counties in Michigan over one hundred meals a day. To date, the Gleaners Women’s Power events and Million Meal Match campaign have raised over $300,000 toward Gleaners’ goal to provide one million meals to hungry children across southeast Michigan. Gleaners is able to feed hungry children through their

programs, BackPack, Smart Bites and school-based mobile pantry programs, enabling them tp reach thousands of children with the healthy food they need to grow and thrive.

“We cannot advance as long as there are hungry children in our mist. Kids who do not have adequate nutrition get sick much more often, have trouble paying attention and doing well in school,. They tend to be obese and compromise their health by building a negative foundation for their future health,” said cochair Nancy Schlicting of Henry Ford Health Systems.

Attendees heard from Celestine Mabene, a kindergarten teacher who connected her granddaughter’s school with Gleaners for food support.

“It’s all about the opportunity to make a difference, no matter how small in ensuring our young people have the nutrition and food security to be able to focus on being successful,” said Faye Nelson.

The breakfast raised a total of 967,500 meals and counting.

There is still time to donate.

For more information or to donate to the Million Meal Match campaign visit www. gcfb.org/millionmatch.

The Greening of Detroit to Receive 2016 Arbor Day Award The Greening of Detroit is the recipient of the 2016 Award for Education Innovation.

The Arbor Day Foundation is honoring The Greening of Detroit at the 2016 Arbor Day Awards on April 30th, with a 2016 Award for Education Innovation.

The Award for Education Innovation recognizes innovative education programs that successfully introduce and teach their audience the importance of trees and serve as an inspi-

ration for future environmental stewards.

The Greening of Detroit is a nonprofit organization with the mission to inspire sustainable growth of a healthy urban community in Detroit. The organizations engages adult and youth in urban forestry education, job training and other community programs dedicated to revitalizing vacant lots into community gardens and tree nurseries.

The Greening of Detroit has

planted more than 85,000 trees in Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park. More than 350 Detroiters have graduated from the Greenings’ adult workforce program in the last five years.

Additionally, the organization employs more than 150 youth to work on planting projects every summer, and more than 1,500 community gardens have been created or supported as a result of the Urban Agriculture Adult Apprenticeship program.

The Greening of Detroit is one of 17 individuals, organi-

zations and companies recognized by the Arbor Day Foundation at the annual Arbor Day Awards ceremony held at Lied Lodge & Conference Center in Nebraska City, Nebraska.

The Arbor Day Foundation has recognized the inspiring and life-changing work of leading environmental stewards and tree planters through the Annual Arbor Day Awards.

Former award winners include the late Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai, Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley

and the United States Forest Service.

Founded in 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation has grown to become the largest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to planting trees, with more than one million members, supporters, and valued partners. During the last 44 years, more than 250 million Arbor Day Foundation trees have been planted in neighborhoods, communities, cities and forests throughout the world.

Enjoy breakfast with nearly 400 policy and decision-makers

May 19, 2016 June 16, 2016

Detroit Athletic Club

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Detroit Cinema and Actress Alyssa C on the set of Buffed Up

April 27 - May 3, 2016

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Actors Chamar Avery, Thomas L. Harris, Martell Lane, Director Derek Scott, and Kenneth Scott of Detroit Cinema filming Five-O

Quiet on the set: Local production company Mulafilms making movies and moves

By Patreice A. Massey Detroit based production company Mulafilms recently held a screening of its newest release, Five-O, at the Bel Air Theater in Detroit. Stars of the film Martell Lane, Thomas L. Harris, Chamar Avery, Dee Lane, Sino and Lance Whittington all attended and were awestruck that popular demand necessitated that another screening be held.

“Crowd response was so strong that we had to pull another showing together, and this time we held it on the east side since our premier was west. We want to make it accessible to everyone who wants to see it,” said producer Jasmine Barnes.

With Mulafilms causing so much buzz in Detroit, movie goers are clamoring to know more about the up-and-coming production company, its history and its future.

Mulafilms is a production company which was formed in Detroit by brothers Terrance Parker and Joseph McFashion owners of 4sho Magazine.

Parker began his career in the entertainment industry as a music producer. But after delving deeper into the city’s rich arts scene, he was struck by the void of professional quality,cutting edge, affordable music videos for local artists.

Parker, determined to turn the tide, teamed up with Chamar Avery to produce the type of music videos that would take local artists to the the next level.

Parker started the process by studying Detroit cinematography legends like Darren Brown, Al Profit and Little J. “I just saw a need and worked to fill it. Eventually, I decided to transition to film and that’s when I met Jasmine Barnes, owner of Nelson McQueen, and we began to collaborate,” said Parker” Barnes and Parker had instant chemistry and began their

Mulateen interns at “Buffed Up” Premiere journey to creating a cinematic movement within the city.

“People think they have to leave Detroit to make films or to act and we’re living proof that that is not the case. I want the kids in Detroit to know that you have to start where you are and use what you have.

Do that and I guarantee you’ll get further than the person who waited on Hollywood to give them a shot,” said Barnes.

Mulafilms is practicing what they preach as they packed the Star Southfield Theater for the premier of their latest film, Five-O, and then turned around and sold out the showing at the Bel Air Theater. This is the third film to be released by Mulafilms following underground hit Buffed Up and the first film, 2Eleven. The company is no stranger to the grind as they operate with a fraction of the staff than production companies with bigger budgets. Yet they still manage to create productions of a quality that exceed

expectations.

“We are a small team, but we are a strong team. There are only about seven people on staff so we have to wear a lot of hats.

It gets hard sometimes, but we have great leadership. Without

that we would not be able to do what we do,” said Barnes.

If you take a look at Mula’s productions, they are chocked full of hood star cameos from Detroit Che, Sino, Murda Pain (who gave a strong performance in 2Eleven), Dex Osama, KC Clark, Kash Doll, DJ BJ 3525 and Icewear Vezzo, to name a few.

Joseph McFashion says, “Every time we do a film the interest gets bigger and bigger.

We have casting calls that we announce on Instagram and Facebook and if anyone is interested, they can just contact

us. We are always looking for talent.”

The company’s steady growth and commitment to their vision, despite limited resources, is a source of pride for the company as Parker points out.

“We are Detroiters and we’re used to grinding and using scraps to make a full meal. This is what we do and will continue to do.

The stories and production will evolve, the budgets will get bigger, the profits will increase and so will our work ethic. What we will not do is stop. We will always make films and we will continue to utilize the resources within our community.”

Stay tuned for Mulafilms’ next movie, Plug Love, scheduled for release this fall.

When asked what Detroiters can do to support Mulafilms, Barnes says, “We need people to do what the Michigan Chronicle is doing now. Acknowledge the movement and momentum that young companies have

here in the city. Beyond that, support local talent and businesses. We are here in our city, working and putting other Detroiters to work creating art. I believe that’s something to be appreciated.”

Companies like Mulafilms and Detroit Cinema are the nucleus of a burgeoning film industry in Detroit. They provide access to film and production opportunities that many in the inner city would not have otherwise. Don’t focus solely on the storylines, but consider their dedication to creating opportunity in Detroit and you may find yourself compelled to support.

2Eleven, Buffed Up and eventually Five-O can be seen on the Urban Culture Network at www.ucult.tv. Five-O will be available the second week of May. Mulafilms and Detroit Cinema via Instagram: @mulafilms @detroit_cinema and Nelson McQueen via email at nelsonmcqueencs@gmail.com or (313) 960-6328.

Patreice Massey is the director of creative services and staff writer for the Michigan Chronicle. She can be reached at (313) 963-8100, ext. 266, or via email pmassey@realtimes-

How to help your budding filmmaker make a movie

By Doug Vermeeren “If your teen or 20-something thinks it would be amazing to work someday on the kind of films they love, don’t let anything or anyone stop them,” says filmmaker Doug Vermeeren.

Often, budding filmmakers are discouraged by advice such as, “You have to be realistic and get a real job.”

“But what’s ‘realistic’ about denying a deep passion that may give others the same joy that you’ve received from movies?” asks Vermeeren, whose documentaries have been translated into 23 languages worldwide. He is of the director of the new Calgary Smartphone Film Festival.

“What if Spielberg or Scorsese — or anyone who has ever done anything great — took the ‘realistic’ advice and accepted a safe career? We wouldn’t have great things.”

Your son or daughter can do what they love for a career, says Vermeeren, whose latest film project is Creepy Zombies. The movie making officianado offers pointers for parents who want to help their child realize their dream as a filmmaker.

• Help them polish their people skills. It’s all about relationships. How do you get people to work for you before you have money? How do you convince people to do you favors, such as loaning you a vintage car or allowing film-

yers and doctors shouldn’t make the investment? If they believe in their vision, there are various ways for your son or daughter to raise money for the project, including through Vimeo and YouTube.

ing to take place on private property, essentially for free?

Again, your kid will need to sell people on their vision, and show them they’re worth rooting for. Make your passion infectious.

• Make sure they monetize.

Films are expensive, but so is medical and law school.

Does that mean aspiring law-

• Have them seek education wherever they can find it.

Film classes are great, but don’t stop there. They should read books about their favorite directors and enter every film festival they can. Festivals often offer cash prizes.

More importantly, judges will critique the project. Their criticisms may be difficult to endure, but they can also greatly improve a young filmmaker’s efforts.

“There are many obstacles in the way of a film’s comple-

tion, so confidence is a must,” Vermeeren says. “The first film is the hardest because figuring out the initial logistics is complicated. The filmmaker needs to get people — actors and anyone with the necessary resources — to commit before there is enough money, and there’s never enough money.

People, however, are drawn to passion and determination.

They need to put their full heart into it and, eventually, they’ll succeed.”

Doug Vermeeren is an internationally renowned public speaker, author, movie producer and director.

He began his career in film as a background extra, actor, photo double and stunt performer on a variety of films.

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April 27 - May 3, 2016

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Michigan’s career technical education programs need additional resources Gov. Snyder’s budget proposal includes grants to purchase state-of-the-art equipment Michigan’s K-12 districts are are responsible for educating and preparing Michigan’s young people for the careers of today and tomorrow, but there is more to do to assist educators with the tools they need to ensure students are graduating with relevant, in-demand skills, according to Steve Arwood, director of the Michigan Talent and Economic Development Department.

Arwood on Wednesday, April 20, joined Gov. Rick Snyder at the Career and Technical Education Showcase, an annual event in Michigan’s State Capitol where students from around the state represent career pathways and opportunities, giving lawmakers and others an upclose look at programs training

the next generations.

Snyder, working with partners in the state Legislature, has invested in a variety of programs aimed at helping students become aware of career opportunities in the skilled trades. Snyder also has worked to connect school districts with higher education and the business community so students can compete in a global economy with needed skills in emerging and important fields.

“Michigan continues to make tremendous progress in reinventing its economy and creating an environment for companies to add more and better jobs,” Arwood said. “Today we saw impressive students who are gaining skills that will lead to good jobs. It’s important that we continue working with districts to build their programs and keep them up to date.

Gov. Snyder’s 2017 budget

recommendation includes $10 million to help K-12 district and intermediate school district career-tech programs purchase state-of-the-art equipment.

That’s so students can continue to gain skills using the same equipment that’s being used in the field. When they graduate and are ready for careers or continuing their education, they’ll have hands-on experience, giving than an important advantage.

The budget proposal is now before the Legislature. The equipment program is similar to the $50 million Community College Skilled Trades Equipment Program lawmakers approved in 2014. The program, one of the largest of its kind in the nation, helped 18 community colleges collaborate with local districts and business communities and purchase equipment.

Arwood said such programs are part of a comprehensive strategy to build a talented workforce and keep Michigan’s economy growing. Since the end of 2010, Michigan businesses have created more than 450,000 jobs. The state’s unemployment rate has dropped from 11.2 percent to 4.8 percent, be-

low the national average.

“We should be proud of the programs and students we saw today, and of what our state has accomplished,” he said. “But we can’t slow down if we are to meet our goal of becoming a national leader in developing talent,” concluded Arood.

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April 27 - May 3, 2016

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Link Detroit partners mark completion of $21 million greenways project Link Detroit Project has connected 20 miles of continuous walking and biking paths linking downtown, Midtown, Detroit Riverfront, Eastern Market and Hamtramck.

To celebrate the completion of its $21 million greenways project, Link Detroit partners will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring Senator Debbie Stabenow and Mayor Mike Duggan on Friday, April 29, from 2-3:30 p.m. and a community celebration from 11a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, April 30, at the Wilkins Street Plaza and Dequindre Cut greenway extension in Eastern Market.

Senator Stabenow, Mayor Duggan and representatives from partner organizations, such as the City of Detroit Department of Public Works, Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, Eastern Market Corporation, Midtown Detroit Inc., Michigan Department of Transportation, Michigan ­ Department of Natural Resources, Detroit RiverFront Conservancy and more will participate in a program and ceremonial ribbon cutting on the new Dequindre Cut extension. The program will begin promptly at 2:30 p.m. The ceremony will mark the completion of five greenway projects that improve connections between major attractions such as the Detroit RiverWalk, Dequindre Cut, Eastern Market, Hamtramck and the cultural and educa-

tional institutions of Midtown.

The public is invited to enjoy a variety of activities throughout the day on Saturday along the new section of the Dequindre Cut greenway and the new Wilkins Street Plaza. The Link Detroit completion celebration is made possible with support from the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan and features: ■ Music and entertainment ■ Food trucks ■ Rickshaw Detroit pedicab rides

HOW DO WE MAKE PAYING BILLS EASIER?

■ Greening of Detroit activities

Here at DTE Energy, we know that our customers have

■ Wheelhouse Detroit bicycle rentals

diverse needs and lead busy lives. That’s why we provide a

■L earn more about cycling in Detroit with information from Detroit Greenways Coalition, Tour de Troit, Slow Roll, Back Alley Bikes and more.

variety of ways to pay your bill. Want to pay in person with

■G uests are encouraged to bike, walk and explore the Eastern Market district and the Link Detroit connections to Midtown, the Detroit Riverfront and Hamtramck.

cash, check, or credit card? Visit one of our bill payment kiosks. Rather pay from your living room? Utilize the DTE Mobile App, eBill Paperless Billing, or enroll in AutoPay. Visit our website at dteenergy.com/options to learn more about which method best suits your needs.

To participate and join the fun, meet at Wilkins Street Plaza at the corner of Wilkins and Orleans in Eastern Market.

Parking is available in the lot across from the Detroit Market Garden.

Photo of the Week: Detroit dads step up for students A special thank you goes out to the nearly 50 men who lined the side of Detroit Service Learning Academy to greet and encourage students as they entered the building to start their school day. As you can see, an hours-worth of your time can make a life-long difference in the eyes of our youth. For more information on how to get involved with District 1 Community Outreach, please call 313-2241027. From Aaron Hall - District 1 Community Liaison at the Office of Councilman James Tate. Call at 313-224-9533, fax 313-224-0372 or Email: hallaar@detroitmi. gov

Dropbox/Clients/DTE Energy/Creative/DTE0508/Self Service Bill Pay/Print/R2 2016-04-15-DTE0508-SelfService-Bill-Pay-5x10.5-V1-R2.indd | Page 1 of 1 | Rev2 | 04/15/2016 Publication | 5x10.5 | No Bleed | Close 4/20/2016 REVISIONS DUE TO AGENCY 04/12/2015 DT ____ CR ____ TR ____ PR ____ AE ____

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Stay Connected toDWSD DWSD Stay Connected to How you can keep your water on... avoid a disruption in service How you can keep your water on... avoid a disruption in service

DWSD Water Assistance Fair Do you have a past due balance?

Are you struggling to make payments?

ater Assistance Fair

The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) will host a Water Assistance Fair. Meet directly with Customer Care representatives to make payment plan arrangements. DWSD wants to help you keep your water on and avoid a shut-off.

a past due balance? gling to make payments?

DWSD Water Assistance Fair and Sewerage Department (DWSD) Saturday, April 30, 8:30AM - 2:30PM Assistance Fair. Meet directly with DWSD Eastside Customer Care Center resentatives make payment plan 13303 East to McNichols 1-1/2 blocks west of Gratiot SD wants to help you keep your Documents to bring: Government-issued ID, such d a shut-off. as a valid driver’s license; social security number; deed if homeowner; and rental agreement if tenant.

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30, 8:30AM - 2:30PM Customer Care Center Nichols st of Gratiot

Government-issued ID, such ense; social security number; and rental agreement if tenant.

DWSD created the 10/30/50 Plan for residential customers who experience difficulty in paying past due water and sewer bills. There are no income restrictions to qualify. A down payment is required at time of plan. Apply in-person at the DWSD Water Assistance Fair on Saturday, April 30, or visit a DWSD location: Eastside Customer Care Center 13303 East McNichols 1-1/2 blocks west of Gratiot Monday - Friday 8AM - 5PM Saturday (April 30 ONLY) 8:30AM - 2:30PM

Customer Care

Water Residential Assistance Program The most robust water financial assistance program in America. The WRAP offers assistance in the form of $25 monthly bill credit and payment toward your past due amount, up to $700 in a 12-month period.

WRAP also includes a water conversation program.

To qualify, you must meet the income guidelines, have an AMR meter installed and provide other documentation. Attend the DWSD Water Assistance Fair on Saturday, April 30 to meet with representatives. You may also visit www.waynemetro.org/wrap or call 313-386-9727.

Water Residentia Assistance Progr

The most robust water financial assistance Westside Customer Care Center Downtown Customer Care Center in America. The WRAP offers assistance in t Water Board Building 15600 Grand River 735 Randolph Street, First Floor towa One block of Greenfield ofwest $25 monthly bill credit and payment Monday - Friday 8AM - 5PM Monday - Friday 8AM - 5PM past due amount,Saturday up to 8AM $700 - 3PMin a 12-month WRAP also includes a water conversation pr To qualify, you must meet the income guide have an AMR meter installed and provide ot 313-267-8000 | detroitmi.gov/dwsd documentation. Attend the DWSD Water Assistance Fair on Saturday, April 30 to me

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Reflections

Prince

By Steve Holsey

Fantasia, new and improved Fantasia — or Fan-taze-ia as Simon Cowell always pronounced it on “American Idol” — is a great singer — when she’s not screaming — but she has never been known for attractive attire.

(1958-2016)

However, lately there has been improvement, and sometimes she even looks sexy when the situation calls for it, as the picture at left makes clear. (Of course, we all know how pictures can be c o m p u t e r- e n hanced.)

Fantasia

By Steve Holsey

W

Our guess is that Fantasia used to dress herself, but now has a stylist, and having a good one can make all the difference.

hen giants of the music industry — the biggerthan-life megastars — leave this earth, the loss is insurmountable, and there is not even a remote possibility of “replacing” them.

Prince, who very unexpectedly passed away on Thursday, April 21, at his Paisley Park compound in Minnesota, was such an artist, and his legion of fans worldwide are still in a state of shock.

Prince Rogers Nelson once described himself as “ageless.” He said it in a playful manner, but he really did appear to be ageless, looking far younger than his 57 years (he would have been 58 on June 7) and never gaining a pound.

It’s hard to find the words to describe an entertainer of the magnitude of Prince, or Michael Jackson, or Ray Charles, or James Brown, or Marvin Gaye, or Jackie Wilson, or Whitney Houston, or Luther Vandross, or David Bowie, or Natalie Cole, or Sam Cooke, or John Lennon, or Teddy Pendergrass, or Barry White, and the list goes on.

When icons depart, it leaves a void in the universe.

An eerie coincidence: Prince’s form­er protégé, Vanity, also died this

SPEAKING of looking good, no one would ever think that Mary Wilson, a founding member of the Supremes, is 72 years old. She is almost a contender for Eighth Wonder of the World designation. She looks fantastic.

Wilson was in town recently to sing with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra.

She has frequently acknowledged how great it is to have been in the most successful female vocal group of all time, and to have sung on classic hits that have tak- Mary Wilson following en on a life her performance with of their own, the DSO. — Barbara such as “You Orto photo Can’t Hurry Love,” “Come See About Me,” “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” and “Where Did Our Love Go?” CHRIS BROWN, who is hopefully getting his temper under control after numerous outbursts, including the one that led to badly beating up then-girlfriend Rihanna in 2009, recently spoke candidly about Chris Brown that horrendous incident. This was a break in policy because that subject is almost always off limits for him.

See PRINCE Page D-2

“I went from being on top of the world to being public enemy number one,” he said. “I felt like a monster. I was thinking about suicide and everything else.”

Rap star Slick Rick (full name, Ricky Martin Lloyd Walters) was sworn in as a U.S. citizen by a New York City judge on April 15. Count me in among those who assumed he was already a U.S. citizen.

Turns out that although he was raised in the Bronx, New York, he was born in London, England.

And then there’s the great actor Idris Elba, who was recently knighted an Officer of the British Empire by Prince William. The ceremony took place at Buckingham Palace. He too was born in London.

TEVIN CAMPBELL, who has been off the recording scene for, believe it or not, 15 years, says he will probably — finally — have a new album ready for release late this summer. The first single, “Safer Tevin Campbell on the Ground,” has already been released. (I love the line, “I never had a fear of heights until you let me down.”)

Campbell’s string of hits includes “Can We Talk?” (my favorite), “Tell Me What You Want Me to Do,” “Goodbye,” “Alone With You” and “Tomorrow (A

See Reflections Page D-2

April 27-May 3, 2016

Andre Smith photo

entertainment

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April 27 - May 3, 2016 Page D-2

37

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Prince

year and she, too, was 57.

IN PRINT

From page D-1 tled “1999” that has been often recognized as his best work. The hits tumbled out — “1999,” “Little Red Corvette,” “Delirious.”

Every cut was a winner, including “All the Critics Love U in New York,” “Automatic” and the lengthy, sexually charged “Let’s Pretend We’re Married” and the erotic opus “International Lover.”

“You can always tell when the groove is working or not,” Prince once said.

THIS ALBUM marked

PRINCE appeared on the music scene in 1978 with an album titled “For You,” featuring a Top 20 single, “Soft and Wet.” Interestingly, he was depicted on the album cover with a large Afro, something he had recently reverted back to.

“For You” was of interest, in part, because the artist sang, produced, wrote and arranged the songs and played all of the instruments. But he hit his stride with the follow-up, “Prince,” featuring his first No. 1 hit single, the “I Wanna be Your Lover.”

People were talking — there was a sense of something special happening — but no one could have imagined what was coming next and thereafter.

“DIRTY MIND” was the next album, a 1980 release. There stood Prince on the cover, wearing just a jacket, a scarf around his neck…and black bikini briefs, standing in front of box springs. It was an unforgettable visual. “Uptown” was the biggest single from that album. Suddenly, Minneapolis was Andre Smith photo hot.

It is easy to see the first time the act was why years later, Prince identified as “Prince and would say, “What’s miss- the Revolution.” ing from pop music today Could Prince get is danger.” any bigger?

The an Prince turned up the swer was yes, and the heat in 1981 with “Con- album was “Purple Rain” troversy,” his most ex- in 1984 from the movie citing album up to that of the same name that point, including the won an Academy Award smash hits “Let’s Work” in the Best Music, Origiand “Controversy” as well nal Song Score category. as “Private Joy” and three Sales were through the in-your-face songs of the roof, 13 million in the flesh — “Do Me, Baby,” United States alone. The “Jack U Off” and “Sexual- album spent an amazing ity.”

24 weeks in the No. 1 THERE WERE par- position on the national ents who didn’t want Billboard 200 chart. their children listening It should be noted that to Prince but, of course, Prince and Michael Jackmost of them did anyway. son were at their peaks at A substantial number of the same time, although ministers were complain- their styles were coming as well. Again, mostly pletely different. There to no avail. was a rivalry of sorts, but Prince reveled in the it wasn’t personal. In fact, Prince once said, “I don’t furor he was creating.

A new plateau was have enemies.” reached, artistically and “PURPLE RAIN” was commercially, when “1999’s” equal in the Prince released a monu- sense that it too was mental double album ti- nothing but hits. Con-

Reflections

Better You, Better Me).

He wasn’t writing songs then. And not long ago he was on Broadway in “Hair.”

“I experienced a lot while I was away from the industry,” he said. “Now I have the freedom to express myself through my music and write about my likes, my dislikes and my passions.”

Erykah Badu upset a lot of women and girls when she said high school girls should wear knee length dresses and skirts, so as not to distract male teachers.

BET has purchased the “Soul Train” franchise, meaning 1000 episodes from 1971 to 2006.

Remember Speech Thomas from the rap group Arrested Development? He is now a preacher in Fayetteville, Georgia, and recently opened an art school there.

Congratulations to Thelma Houston who has been celebrating 45 years

in show business. Her biggest hit is the classic, Grammy-winning “Don’t Leave Me This Way.” BETCHA DIDN’T KNOW…that the accompanying voice on Sam Cooke’s “Bring it on Home to Me” is that of Lou Rawls.

MEMORIES: “Shake You Down” (Gregory Abbott), “Mr. Melody” (Natalie Cole), “You’re a Wonderful One” (Marvin Gaye), “Be My Baby” (the Ronettes), “I Gotta Dance to Keep From Crying” (the Miracles), “Why Can’t We Live Together?” (Timmy Thomas), “Silly” (Deniece Williams), “I Need Love” (LL Cool J), “Careless Whisper” (Wham! featuring George Michael).

BLESSINGS to Jen­ ifer Lewis, Sandra McCreary, Rebecca Bare, James Barnhill, Ken Coleman, Robert McTyre, Kim Trent, Carmela McTyre, Chuck Young and Lester Bryant.

WORDS OF THE

sider: “When Doves Cry” (No. 1 for eight weeks), “Let’s Go Crazy” (also No. 1), “Take Me With U,” “I Would Die 4 U,” “Purple Rain,” the almost X-rated “Darling Nikki” and more.

Prince’s next album, “Around the World in a Day,” was a total departure from anything he had done before, highlighted by the top-selling “Raspberry Beret.” And then there was the surreal album closer, “Temptation,” about a man debating with, and losing out to, God. Perhaps this song was an indicator of the religious transformation Prince would later undergo, joining a religious sect with encouragement from his good friend, Larry Graham. He was still Prince, but with numerous very noticeable changes in terms of attitude, music content and performance.

His following remained rock solid, but many fans yearned for the controversial, mysterious, even “dangerous” Prince of old.

IT WOULD be impossible to cover Prince’s entire career in one story, and barely in a series of stories. But added to the list of highly successful albums after “Around the World in a Day,” which he described as “a gift” to his fans, were, notably, “Parade” (featuring “Kiss,” No. 1 for a month), “Lovesexy,” “Sign o’ the Times,” “Batman” and “Diamonds and Pearls.”

By 1991, Prince had disbanded the Revolution and introduced a new, more hip-hop flavored band called the New Power Generation. Diehard fans preferred the Revolution, but Prince and the New Power Generation enjoyed considerable success.

Still, it was clear that the glory years were behind Prince, although he continued to be among the elite group of artists who could sell out a venue, no matter the size or number of shows, usually within minutes.

phy. Fans know they will never see such a book.

But they, like people the world over, know that one of the greatest and most creative artists in the history of the music industry has left the room.

Place your classified or display ad in the

Call (313) 963-5522

If there is life after this one, surely Prince is still making music.

His Royal Badness wouldn’t have it any other way.

DIGITAL DAILY WWW.MICHIGANCHRONICLE.COM

Earlier this year, Prince had said he was writing an autobiogra-

From page D-1

At Your Finger Tips!

WEEK, from Bill Maher: “Religion is dangerous because it allows human beings who don’t have all the answers to think they do.”

Let the music play!

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

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

Open Enrollment Legal Notice WAY Academy, a TUITION-FREE Public School Academy serving students and their families announces the 2016-2017 enrollment periods for grades 7-12.

Students and their families may enroll May 11, 2016 through May 30, 2016 between the hours of 9:00am and 4:30 pm at 8701 W. Vernor, Detroit, MI 48209 In addition, interested students and their families may contact the academy by calling 313-444-8082. This school is a Public School Academy authorized by Lake Superior State University according to the Michigan Revised School Code. It has an open enrollment policy and does not discriminate on the basis of intellectual or physical abilities, achievement or aptitude, religion, race, sexual orientation or gender.

Random Selection Drawing In the event student enrollment applications exceed available space, a random selection drawing will be administered Saturday August 6th, 2016 from 8:00am to 10:00am at the following location: 8701 West Vernor Detroit, MI 48209 The random selection drawing, in accordance with the Michigan Revised School Code and the chartering contract provisions with Lake Superior State University, will be conducted under the direction of a third party administrator not affiliated with the academy. If required, the third party administrator will be (TBD). Students and their parents as well as interested community members are welcome to attend. Attendance, however, is not required for inclusion in the drawing.

APRIL IS NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION AWARENESS MONTH

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Page D-3

ANNOUNCEMENTS

NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT AND NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS OLD TIGER STADIUM CONSERVANCY 150 West Jefferson Avenue, Suite 2500 Detroit, Michigan, 48226-4415 Telephone: 313.496.7511 TO ALL INTERESTED AGENCIES, GROUPS AND PERSONS In accordance with 24 CFR 58.43 and 58.70, this notice shall satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities undertaken by the Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy.

NOTICE OF ANNUAL BUDGET HEARING The Board of Directors of the Public Lighting Authority will hold its annual budget hearing for the 2016-2017 Fiscal Year as follows: Public Lighting Authority 65 Cadillac Square, Suite 3100 Detroit, MI 48226 Wednesday, May 4, 2016 4:30 p.m.

Bro. Harris - P.O. BOX 21765 DETROIT, MI 48221

APRIL IS AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH

April 21-27, 2016

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

The proposed 2016-2017 Annual Budget shall be available for public inspection at http://www.pladetroit.org/finances on April 27, 2016.

In compliance with MCL §141.412: “The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing.” The PLA notes that no property tax millage is proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget.

The meeting will be conducted in accordance with the Michigan Open Meetings Act, 1976 PA 267, MCL §§15.261-15.275.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Board of Directors will make certain accommodations to those with disabilities.

Should you require such accommodations, please contact the Public Lighting Authority at (313) 324-8291 at least one business day prior to the meeting.

Public Notice All citizens are advised that the Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan has prepared an application for State of Michigan financial assistance for fiscal year 2017 as required under Act 52 of the Public Acts of 1951, as amended, and for federal assistance as required under the federal transit laws, as amended.

The Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan is requesting an estimated total of $2,100,000 through the following sources: $2,000,000 in Act 51 Operating Assistance, and $100,000 from the Service Development and New Technology program.

The Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan ensures that the level and quality of transportation service is provided without regard to race, color, or national origin in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. For more information regarding our Title VI obligations or to file a complaint, please contact us at the address given below.

The proposed application is on file at the Regional Transit Authority for Southeast Michigan and may be reviewed from Monday, April 25, 2016 through Friday, May 20, 2016 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Written comments or requests regarding the application and/or written request for a public hearing to review the application must be received by Friday, May 27, 2016. If a public hearing is requested, notice of the scheduled date, time and locations will be provided at least 10 days in advance. Submittals should be sent to Ms. Tiffany Gunter, Chief Operating Officer, Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan, 1001 Woodward, Suite 1400, Detroit, MI, 48226 or 313-402-1020 or via email to tgunter@rtamichigan.org.

Barring any changes made in response to the written comments, this document will become final.

On or about May 13, 2016, and in accordance with 24 CFR 58.71, the Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy will submit a request to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Detroit Field Office for the release and certification of Economic Development InitiativeSpecial Projects funds provided under Title II of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2009 (PL 111-8). Provided the appropriate authorization, the Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy may commit these funds to the following project: Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy Project 2009 Economic Development Initiative-Special Projects $2,440,000.00 PROJECT SCOPE As permitted under 24 CFR 570.201(c), the Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy will utilize Federal funds for the reconstruction of a multi-use ball field occupying a portion of the site of the former Tiger Stadium at 2121 Trumbull, Detroit, MI. The field, dedicated to the youth sports league Detroit PAL, will accommodate open and covered grandstands, additional moveable bleacher seats, field lighting, a score board, and fenced field enclosure. The field surface will consist of synthetic turf and a substantial water drainage system will be constructed.

DETERMINATION AND FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT Pursuant to 24 CFR 58.4 and 58.10 the City has assumed its authority as the Responsible Entity and the City of Detroit determined that this project is subject to an Environmental Assessment, per 24 CFR 58.36. The City of Detroit prepared an Environmental Assessment of the above-named project, and the Environmental Assessment finds that this project will have no significant impact on environmental quality. Therefore, the preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement is not required at this time.

In accordance with 24 CFR 58.38, the City of Detroit prepared an Environmental Review Record that documents the environmental review of the above-named project. The Environmental Review Record is on file with the Housing and Revitalization Department at the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, 2 Woodward Ave., Suite 908, Detroit, Michigan, 48226.

The records are available for public examination and copying, upon request, on weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS AND CERTIFICATION Through the Request for Release of Funds and Certification (form HUD 7015.15), the City of Detroit and the Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy certify to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that the City and the Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy has fulfilled its responsibilities for environmental review, decision- making and action. Furthermore, the City of Detroit and the Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy consent to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities for environmental review, decision-making, and action. Upon approval of the request for release of funds and certification, the City of Detroit may commit the Community Development Block Grant funds, and HUD will have satisfied its responsibilities under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and related laws and authorities.

PUBLIC COMMENTS The City of Detroit invites all interested agencies, groups and persons to submit written comments concerning the above-named project for consideration. The Housing and Revitalization Department should receive such comments at the following address on or before May 12, 2016.

Attention: Environmental Review Officer Housing and Revitalization Department Coleman A. Young Municipal Center 2 Woodward Ave., Suite 908 Detroit, MI 48226 The City of Detroit will consider all such comments so received, and the City of Detroit will not request the release of Federal funds or take any choice-limiting action on the above-named project prior to May 13, 2016.

OBJECTION TO RELEASE OF FUNDS

CITY OF DETROIT, OFFICE OF CONTRACTING AND PROCUREMENT ISSUES RFP#51097 ON BEHALF OF THE HOUSING AND REVITALIZATION DEPARTMENT SEEKS PROGRAM ADMIINISTRATOR SERVICES FOR THE HOME INVESTOR COMPLIANCE MONITORING PROGRAM The City of Detroit Housing and Revitalization Department (H&RD) seeks qualified firms to serve as the Program Administrator to render certain technical and/or professional services for the HOME Investor Compliance Monitoring Program. Assisted with CDBG and HOME Funds. U. S. Housing and Urban Development HUD), Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO), Section 3 compliance applies to these covered funds.

Services performed by the Program Administrator include conducting reviews and performing scheduled on-site inspections of HOME-assisted rental housing to determine compliance with household housing costs, household income guidelines, and Section 8 existing housing program Housing Quality Standards (HQS) during the period of affordability specified in the HOME Loan Closing documents.

H&RD seeks sealed competitive proposals from qualified firms. Firms must provide evidence of qualifications including extensive experience working with a municipality, 5-7 years’ experience working with HOME Investor Compliance Monitoring, and 5-7 years’ experience working with HOME funded programs.

For a fifteen (15) day period following receipt of all required documentation, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will accept an objection to its approval of the release of funds and certification only if the objection is based upon one of the following claims identified in 24 CFR 58.75: (a) That the certification was not in fact executed by the Chief Executive Officer or other officer of the applicant approved by HUD; (b) That the applicant’s environmental review record for the project indicates omission of a required decision, finding, or action applicable to the project in the environmental review process; (c) That the grant recipient has committed funds or incurred costs not authorized by 24 CFR 58 prior to approval of a release of funds and certification by HUD; or (d) That another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. HUD will not consider objections to the request for release of funds and certification on a basis other than those stated above.

All interested agencies, groups or persons must prepare and submit objections in accordance with the required procedures outlined in 24 CFR 58.76. Potential objectors must address their objections to: Ms. Kathy Bagley, CPD Representative Detroit Field Office U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development 477 Michigan Avenue, 16th Floor Detroit, Michigan, 48226 Potential objectors should contact Ms. Bagley at 313.226.7900 to verify the actual last day of the objection period.

NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION

Suppliers must register (free) with Bid Sync to submit proposals at www.bidsync.com/the-city-of-detroit/ RFP questions posted in Bid Sync may be answered and posted on a rolling basis in Bid Sync, until the Questions Due Date and Time, 1 p.m., Monday, May 11, 2016. Pre-Submission Tele-Conference takes place at 2 p.m., Monday, May 16, 2016.

RFP#51097 can be accessed on the City of Detroit official website and www.bidsync.com RFP#51097 PROPOSAL SUBMISSIONS must be received via www.bidsync.com before or on 4:00 p.m., Friday, May 20, 2015. In-Person or late submissions will not be accepted by the Office of Contracting and Procurement. Public Recording of submitted proposals takes place at 11:30 a.m., Monday, May 23, 2015 in the Office of Contracting and Procurement, Suite 1008, 2 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48226.

Qualified Minority Owned Enterprises, Women Owned Enterprises, Disadvantaged Business Enterprises, and HUD Section 3 Certified Business Concerns are encouraged to submit proposals.

RFP#51097 Contact: City of Detroit, Office of Contracting and Procurement Elizabeth C. Ayana Johnson, HUD Section 3 Compliance Officer Email: section3compliance@detroitmi.gov Notice of Non-Discrimination: The City of Detroit does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, age, handicap, sex, or sexual orientation. Complaints may be filed with the City of Detroit, Human Rights Department, 12th Floor, Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, 2 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48226.

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The City of Detroit does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, creed, handicap, national origin, race, sex or sexual orientation. Persons or groups with discrimination complaints may file those complaints with the City of Detroit Human Rights Department, 2 Woodward Avenue, Suite 1026, Detroit, Michigan, 48226.

The applicant for this project is: Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy 150 West Jefferson, Suite 2500 Detroit, Michigan, 48226 Notice Date: April 27, 2016

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BUDGET HEARING THE BOGGS SCHOOL The Boggs School will hold its annual budget hearing Wed., June 8, 6:30 p.m.

The address is 4141 Mitchell St., Detroit, MI 48207.

This meeting is open to the public.

The Detroit Public Library Commission is seeking sealed competitive bids for library shelving at the Wilder Branch of the Detroit Public Library. Located at 7140 E. 7 Mile Road, Detroit, Michigan 48234 Bid documents may be obtained from the Purchasing office located at 5201 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, Michigan, 48202, 313-481-1325. They may also be obtained from the Detroit Public Library website at detroitpubliclibrary.org.

Sealed documents for the Bid are to be returned to the Purchasing office no later than Thursday, May 5, 2016, at 2:30 PM (Detroit Michigan Time). No late, fax, e-mail or any other utilization of an electronic method to respond to this request will be accepted.

April 21-27, 2016

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CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER Metro Detroit nonprofit law firm, providing free legal services to the underserved, seeks talented fundraising pro to build & expand donor base. Details: www.theyunkergroup.com/cdo-search/ Michigan State University Infrastructure Planning and Facilities is seeking to hire for the following position:

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Planner/Inspector/Analyst II Posting #3170

Notice is hereby given that the City Council of Highland Park will hold a Public Hearing

View complete posting and apply online at www.jobs.msu.edu. Refer to the posting number. The closing date for this position is Tuesday, May 3, 2016.

Tuesday, May 10, 2016 5:00 p.m.

MSU is committed to achieving excellence through cultural diversity. The University actively encourages applications and/or nominations of women, persons of color, veterans and persons with disabilities.

12050 Woodward Ave. Highland Park, MI 48203

MSU is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer.

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Proof of above requirements Must be submitted with application Applications available at; Westland City Hall 36300 Warren Rd., Westland, MI 48185 No applications will be mailed Must be postmarked or received by May 27, 2016 at 4:00 p.m.

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The Department of Chemistry at Oakland University invites applications for a nontenure-track, full-time position at the rank of Visiting Assistant Professor of Chemistry, to begin August 15, 2016, for one academic year. The successful candidate will teach General/Physical Chemistry lecture/ laboratories or other courses needed by the department or in area of the candidate’s expertise. Ph.D. in Chemistry is required and teaching experience desirable.

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Review of applications begins June 1, 2016 and will continue until the position is filled.

Most College Students Manage Money Responsibly

PROPOSED GENERAL OPERATING BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2016-2017 Copies of the proposed budget may be viewed at the City Clerk’s Office Monday – Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Friday 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.

(StatePoint) Conventional wisdom says young people have a lot to learn when it comes to managing money, but the reality is most American college students are handling their finances carefully and conscientiously, according to “Majoring in Money: How American College Students Manage Their Finances,” a new national study from Sallie Mae and Ipsos, an independent global market research company.

Brenda Green City Clerk WWW.MICHIGANCHRONICLE.COM

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) has prepared the FY 2017 Annual Operating and Capital Budgets. The total estimated budgets include the following programs: 5307 Formula ($25,722,788), 5307 LETC Governor’s Apportionment ($1,507,534), 5339 Formula ($2,762,350), 5339 LETC Governor’s Apportionment ($110,285), CMAQ ($4,770,000), 5310 Formula ($4,619,358), 5310 Monroe ($294,000), Act 51 Operating ($33,651,920), 5311 LETC Operating ($160,000) and Other State Subsidized Services (Operating) ($811,819).

SMART ensures that the level and quality of transportation service is provided without regard to race, color, or national origin in accordance with the Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. For more information regarding our Title VI obligations or to file a complaint, please contact us at the below address.

The proposed Capital and Operating budgets are on file at SMART, Buhl Building, 6th floor Receptionist, 535 Griswold Street, Detroit, MI 48226 and may be reviewed from Monday, April 25, 2016, through Wednesday, May 25, 2016, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Written comments or written requests for a public hearing regarding the budgets must be received by Wednesday, May 25, 2016. If a hearing is requested, notice of the scheduled date, time and location will be provided at least 10 days in advance. Submittals should be mailed to the attention of Manager of Capital and Grant Programs, SMART, at the above address. Barring any changes made in response to the written comments, this document will become final.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL Contractors are invited to submit proposals for the construction of a new parking lot. Keating Contracting LLC will operate as the owner’s representative for solicitation and bid qualification. Contractors desiring to bid shall have at least 5 years experience in their field and must be licensed per state and/or local law.

Successful bidders will need to have general liability and auto liability insurance naming Southwest Housing Solutions & The City Of Detroit as additional insured. Workers comp insurance will also be required.

All bid documents are to be downloaded and all associated printing charges are the responsibility of the bidder.

• Items for bidding include (but are not limited to): Soil erosion, demolition, barricading for safe work area, storm sewer, staking/ surveying, cut/fill/ haul, site electrical, fencing/gate operator/loop detectors, trash enclosure, stone base, concrete paving, asphalt paving, striping, and lawn installation.

• Project: Porter Street Parking (Northeast corner of Porter Street & Hubbard Ave Street) Detroit, MI 48210 • Link to download drawings & documents (type this into any internet browser download will begin automatically): https://www.mediafire.com/?qflydypkk2j6kn4

HELP WANTED

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• Pre Bid Meeting: A pre-bid meeting will be held on 5/6/16 @ 11:00am at the job site location. Interested bidders should attend. The owner has the right to reject or disqualify any bid with irregularities or any bid that is not in their best interest. Bids will be due 5/20/16 @ 11:00pm for a public opening at: Southwest Housing Solutions Corporation, 1920 25th Street, Suite A, Detroit, MI 48216.If you would like a direct download link emailed or have any bid inquiries or questions please send them to: keating.net@gmail.com The City Of Detroit Neighborhood Opportunity Fund administered by The City Of Detroit planning and development department funds this project. The successful bidders will be required to comply with federal laws governing equal employment opportunity, with the prevailing wage requirements of the Federal Labor Standards Act which is incorporates Davis-Bacon Act requirements. Successful bidders will have to be cleared and approved by The City Of Detroit and comply with the following: 1) Executive Order 11246 (non discrimination), 2) Executive Order 2014-4 which directs City departments and authorities to impose a requirement on construction contracts that 51% of the workforce must be Detroit residents, and that 51% of the actual work hours are performed by Detroit residents.

3) And the “Section 3” clause (24CFR Part 135), all contracts shall include the Section 3 clause.

Taking the Right Steps Students are taking the right steps when it comes to managing money, the study revealed. More than three-fourths of college students pay bills on time, and six in 10 never spend more money than they have available. In addition, college students are putting money aside each month. More than half save at least some money every month, and 24 percent report having an emergency fund.

Responsible Credit While most college students make purchases with debit cards and cash, more than half have at least one credit card. Roughly six in 10 students report their primary reason for getting a credit card was to build a credit history.

The report also finds that the majority of students with credit cards are using them responsibly and paying the bill themselves.

Specifically, 63 percent pay the balance in full each month, and 73 percent pay the bill without assistance from a parent or other adult. Roughly seven in 10 report an average monthly balance of $500 or less.

“Having a credit card doesn’t necessarily mean students are overspending,” said Julia Clark, senior vice president, Ipsos Public Affairs. “The reality is they are demonstrating sound reasoning and thoughtful decision-making, and they are managing their payments effectively.”

Understanding Good Credit The majority of college students know having a good credit record can help them qualify for different types of credit and improve their access to favorable interest rates; and the majority of students understand what positive and negative credit behaviors are.

“Many of these young people grew up in the wake of a financial crisis and, in turn, have adopted behaviors that promote sound credit management,” said Raymond J. Quinlan, chairman and CEO, Sallie Mae. “At the same time, they’re eager to learn more.”

The report also revealed that college students would benefit from additional education about specific credit topics, including how interest accumulates and how repayment behavior and credit terms affect the cost of credit over time. In fact, when asked to answer multiple choice questions on those topics, only 31 percent of students answered all three questions correctly.

Free educational tools and resources, as well as a free guide to credit handbook and free quarterly access to FICO scores, can help students improve their financial literacy. To access these resources, visit SallieMae.com.

For the complete report, MajoringinMoney.

Join the #MajoringinMoney.

visit SallieMae.com/ conversation using

Despite popular perceptions about college students, many young scholars are acting responsibly with their finances, paving the way for successful financial futures.

More Home Buyers are Taking Advantage of Today’s Low Mortgage Rates (StatePoint) If you’re in the market to buy a home, today’s historically low average mortgage rates are something to celebrate. Mortgage rates play a significant role in how much home you can afford -- and when rates are low, a home that was once unaffordable may now be within reach.

Mortgage rates change frequently, and over the last 45 years they have ranged from a high of 18.63 percent in 1981, to a low of 3.31 percent in 2012. Experts say today’s figures are not anything to take for granted.

“While it’s not likely that the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate will return to its all-time record low, today’s average rates are still very low compared to almost any year since 1971 -all to a buyer’s advantage,” says Sean Becketti, chief economist, Freddie Mac. At an average of 3.58 percent as of April 2016, today’s rates are “not to be missed for those ready to make the major investment of a home purchase,” says Becketti.

“Small changes in mortgage rates can have a significant impact on monthly payments.”

For example, a $200,000 loan financed at 8.86 percent in the 1970s translated to an approximate monthly payment of $1,589. In the 2000s, the average rate of 6.29 percent meant an approximate payment of $1,237. Today, that same monthly payment would only be $908. Experts say for this reason, now is a great time

to buy.

Beyond mortgage rates, there are other important aspects to understand before buying a home, such as getting a firm handle on your finances, knowing your credit score, and understanding your down payment options. For more information and tools on buying a home and homeownership, visit myhome.freddiemac.com.

To make your dream of homeownership a reality, consider getting serious about your search. Locking in a great fixed mortgage rate can save you money for years to come.

praise connect

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

April 27 - May 3, 2016

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James Abraham Dawkins Services for James Abraham Dawkins were held on April 2 at Dexter Avenue Baptist Church with Pastor Richard R. White III officiating. Mr. Dawkins passed away on March 23, 2016.

James Abraham Dawkins was born on Dec. 4, 1921 in Pennsylvania to Martha Rebecca Brown.

He later moved to New York. He was inducted into the U.S. Army in 1943 and was honorably discharged in 1946.

In 1957, he married Garvinia A. Mason-Allen and they were blessed with three children, Betty J. Mason-Harris, Jeanette Dawkins-Hayden and Gregory Dawkins. After the passing of his first wife, Mr. Dawkins married Emma Colding and their families were united.

Left behind to cherish the memory of James Abraham Dawkins are his wife, Emma Colding Dawkins; children, Betty J. Harris, Jeanette Dawkins-Hawkins Hayden, Gregory J. Dawkins, Sephan Gentry, Curtis Gentry and Janice Moore; and many other relatives and friends.

Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Interment took place at Detroit Memorial Park West.

Bethel Baptist Church East recently honored Pastor Michael Andrew Owens for 17 years of service with a banquet at the Detroit Yacht Club. The theme for the occasion was “A Pastor After God’s Own Heart,” from Jeremiah 3:15. Present at the event along with other prominent members of the community was Linda E. Swanson (standing third from right), vice president/executive executive director of Swanson Funeral Homes Inc. representing her father, O’ Neil D. Swanson Sr.

Russell Street Baptist extends invitation

Grand opening service

Russell Street Missionary Baptist Church, Usher Board No. 2 cordially invites you to our Annual Spring Fashion Show and Tea. Fashions by Days of Hamtramck will take place on Sunday May 15 at 3:30 p.m. at Russell Street Missionary Baptist Church located at 8700 Chrysler Service Dr. in Detroit. Monetary donations will be accepted.

Bishop Fletcher Bland and Right Hands Fellowship Family Life Center invites all to the church opening on Sunday, May 1, and every Sunday thereafter at 3 p.m. Services are being held at United Baptist Temple, 15003 Fairfield, Detroit, south of Fenkell, east of Dexter.

RHF-FLC is a Bible teaching, believing and living church.

Ministries, choir members/director, ushers, nurses, greeters and members are needed.

Not a morning person? Come worship in the afternoon. Bible class every Wednesday at 6:30 pm.

Russell Street Missionary Baptist Church will also celebrate its100th Church Anniversary Dinner on May 20 at the St. John Armenian Church located in Southfield.

Rev. Dr. Dee Dee M. Coleman is the church’s pastor.

Please call 313 875-11615 for more information.

Cynthia Deloris Brown Services for Cynthia Deloris Brown were held on April 2 at Calvary Baptist Church of Detroit with Rev. Lawrence T. Foster officiating. Mrs. Brown passed away on March 24, 2016.

Cynthia Deloris Stubbs was born on Jan. 14, 1958 in Detroit to Willie Frank Stubbs and Carrie Lee Edwards, the youngest of four children. The family moved Muskegon, Michigan in 1959, but she later returned to Detroit.

In Detroit, she married Derek Brown, a union that lasted 43 years.

They were blessed with two children, Derecia and Nicholas.

For over 20 years, she worked at Duffield and Chrysler elementary schools.

Mrs. Brown loved preparing large holiday meals, dancing, cooking, singing and having fun with her family and friends.

Cherishing the memory of Cynthia Deloris Brown are her husband, Derek; daughter, Derecia; son, Nicholas; and many other relatives and friends.

Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Interment took place at Elmwood Cemetery.

First Ladies of Wayne County join Bringing Justice Initiative Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans and the First Ladies of Wayne County held a brunch at Greater Grace Temple to kick off the Bringing Justice Initiative, a campaign to raise $50,000 for Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy’s Sexual Assault Kit Task Force to test, investigate and prosecute the untested rape kits found in 2009.

pledge their support to the Bringing Justice Initiative that would target 100 faith institutions from across Southeast Michigan by encouraging each institution to donate at least $500 and asking others to join them.

Women representing metro Detroit faith institutions attended to

You can donate online by visiting http:www.aa490challenge.

If you would like to support the Bringing Justice Initiative, there are two ways for you or your church to make a donation.

org, click “Donate,” then go to the Bringing Justice Initiative link Submit a check or money order made out to the Michigan Women’s Foundation with Bringing Justice Initiative in the memo section.

Checks can be mailed or delivered to the Wayne County Executive Office, Guardian Building, 31st Floor, 500 Griswold St., Detroit, MI 48226, c/o Rev. Greg Roberts.

Robert A. Leonard Jr. Charitable Trust provides scholarship and sponsorship opportunities The Robert A. Leonard Jr. Charitable Trust provides scholarship and sponsorship opportunities to individuals and organizations for educational and charitable purposes.

Services for Charles Hands, Jr. were held on Friday, April 8, at Joshua Temple Church of God in Christ with Pastor David L. Fielder, Sr. officiating. Mr. Hands passed away on April 1, 2016.

Charles Hands, Jr. was born on May 7, 1964 and was educated in the Detroit Public Schools, graduating from Benedictine High School in May 1982. He married Pia in September 1990 and they were blessed with two sons, Charles III and William James.

Mr. Hands learned several skills at Randolph Technical Trade Center and was later employed at Hermes Automotive factory for over two decades. He also took on additional work in plumbing, bricklaying, glass block windows, home repair and snow removal.

Cherishing the memory of Charles Hand, Jr. are his wife, Pia; sons, Charles III and William James; mother, Rosie Lee Hands; sister, Thelma Dobson; brother, Michael Hands; and many other relatives and friends.

The organization will receive applications in the May of 2016 to be awarded in July 2016.

“Robert wants people to succeed in life,” said Gena Harrington, chairperson of the Board of Trustees. “His passion was to help people become better and to develop a personal vision for their lives. This trust has been established for that sole intention. He encouraged people to be their best and generously gave resources to assist people in need. We will ensure that his vision continually shapes the lives of people through the Robert A. Leonard Jr. Charitable Trust.”

Charles Hands, Jr.

The award application will be available through the website, www. robertleonardtrust.org., or mail to the trust offices at PO Box 898, Southfield, Michigan 48037.

The application deadline is May 31. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered, but may be considered for next year’s award cycle.

Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Interment took place at Woodlawn Cemetery.

In support of people and communities, the Robert A. Leonard Jr. Charitable Trust supports charitable 501(c )(3) organization that align with areas of giving focus.

PRAISE PRAISE CONNECT CONNECT Are you hosting a concert faith-friendly Are or you hostingevent? a concert or faith-friendly event?

Are you celebratingAre an anniversary or special occasion? you celebrating an anniversary or special occasion?

PROMOTE IT HERE! PROMOTE IT HERE!

Contact us at: nblack@realtimesmedia.com

Contact us at: nblack@realtimesmedia.com

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