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Michigan Chronicle

Vol. 82 – No. 35 | May 8-14, 2019

Students Among Giants: NAACP Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner

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Kamala

Harris,

Time to ‘Speak Truth’ at Detroit NAACP Dinner

By Jasmin Lee The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) recognizes the leaders of today while empowering the leaders of tomorrow through its annual Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner.

The Freedom Fund Dinner, which took place Sunday May 5, celebrated such leaders as Jewell Jones, Garlin Gilchrist, Gretchen Whitmer, Debbie Stabenow, Akon, April D. Ryan, Clifton Powell and keynote speaker of the evening, Kamala Harris.

Students from elementary, middle and high school were able to attend the prestigious dinner amongst many other accomplished leaders from across the state of Michigan, including lawyers, executives and media producers.

Sitting at the table where leaders are made is truly an honor but sitting at that table before you graduate high school is even more special. Attending the event was one of the best moments of my life, and I believe if any student/future leader is given the opportunity to attend or volunteer, they should definitely take advantage.

Being in a room with these people showed me the present and gave me a glimpse into the future. This was certainly a moment I will never forget.

PHOTO: Cydni Elledge

By Branden Hunter This past Sunday, the Detroit Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Color People (NAACP) held its 64th annual Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner at the Cobo Center.

Detroit Branch NAACP President Reverend Wendell Anthony gave the opening address at the event during which he said, “All roads go through Detroit.”

He was referring to the 2020 road to the White House.

This dinner boasted the attendance of three presidential hopefuls. Two of which, Senator Elizabeth Warren (Massachusetts) and Senator Cory Booker

(New Jersey), were past keynote speakers, and democratic 2020 presidential candidate Kamala Harris, U.S. Senator from California, delivered the keynote address.

She began by first paying respect to federal judge and civil rights icon Damon J. Keith, who passed away last month at his home in Detroit.

“He was a brilliant, Howard-educated lawyer with an unwavering commitment to fairness and the willingness to speak truth,” said Senator Harris who also graduated from Howard. “His rulings advanced the cause of equality and his legacy will have a lasting impact on Americans for generations.”

Harris, 54, gave a fiery campaign speech that outlined her agenda and goals for the country if she is elected.

She also continued her frontal assault on President Donald Trump’s policies and leadership. She condemned the president for attacking communities of color and denigrating African countries with “foul language no president should speak.”

“Let’s speak truth here today. This president isn’t trying to make America great; he’s trying to make America hate,” Harris said. “So, it is critical to our security, our dignity and our unity as a nation when I say: ‘We need a new

See NAACP

DINNER page A2

“It is critical to expose people to different possibilities and give them access and opportunities,” said Jewell Jones, Michigan’s youngest state representative. “This is the perfect place for young people because you have so many black and brown people — even white folk — from across the state of Michigan — and outside of the state — [who] are here and doing wonderful things. It’s just a way for people to go up and simply hear from them or meet them. I think that gives people an extra boost to get them to the next level.”

Many of the honorable guests that spoke at the Cobo Hall event addressed subjects that resonated with students. Hearing about the experiences of people in a high place of power was truly life-changing — especially being that they were people of color. That meant more than words can express.

See Students

Among Giants page A3 PHOTO: Andre Smith

WHAT’S INSIDE COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

Remembering the Life, Times and Legacy of The Honorable

By Trevor W. Coleman

Damon J.

Keith July 4, 1922–April 28, 2019

Michigan Chronicle May, 2019

$1.00

#WOE2019: The Michigan Chronicle honors ‘Women of Excellence’ class of 2019 It was an evening of celebration and thanks this past Friday at Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center. A sold-out crowd of 900 people gathered to honor the winners of the Michigan Chronicle’s 2019 Women of Excellence Awards.

For the past 13 years, the Chronicle has recognized about 600 local African-American women who continue to break the mold and affect change in their profession and community. The program on Friday highlighted the powerful impact women have on southeastern Michigan.

Hiram E. Jackson, president and chief executive officer of Real Times Media and publisher of the Michigan Chronicle said the 50 honorees in-

ducted into the women of excellence for 2019 are visionaries in their given fields who inspire those around them to be resilient and to go against the status quo.

“They are champions of equality and diversity,

the backbone of our religious and educational organizations, and driving forces in politics and community service,” he said. “You know, we celebrate African-American achievement all over the country. And what is a

better way to celebrate African-American achievement than to celebrate African-American women?”

To be nominated, an individual must have proven success within her profession or industry; she must be a local

PHOTO: Cydni Elledge African-American woman in the Metro Detroit area; she must be a positive role model whose actions encourage others; and she must be engaged in community service or organizational involvement.

See WOE2019 page A3

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From page A-1 president.’ It’s time we had leaders who bring people together rather than rip them apart and a leader who speaks out on hate and all its forms.”

“Let’s speak a truth” was the common theme for Harris’ 30minute speech. She said it repeatedly and tied it to policies she intends to implement as president.

Harris promised a tax cut for middle- and working-class Americans who cannot afford to pay for unexpected expenses. Families making less than $100,000 a year would receive $6,000 that they could access at up to $500 a month. She said she plans to pay for it by repealing Trump’s tax cut that benefited wealthy individuals and corporations.

Senator Harris also questioned the integrity of American elections, claiming the Florida and Georgia elections were unjustly decided.

She said she would introduce a new voting rights act that would automatically register people to vote, make election day a national holiday and fight back against Republican efforts to suppress the vote.

“Let’s say this loud and clear: without voter suppression, Stacey Abrams would be the governor of Georgia. Andrew Gillum [would be] the governor of Florida,” Harris proclaimed.

To combat gun violence in the country, Harris said she would give Congress 100 days to enact gun control that would expand background checks, take licenses away from gun dealers who break the law and stop domestic abusers from getting guns. Otherwise, she will sign an executive order to accomplish her goals on gun laws.

A former prosecutor, Harris said she wants to increase criminal justice investigations into the patterns and practices of those in law enforcement, and enforce current and future consent decrees with city police departments. She also wants to end the cash bail system ,which hits poor and minority communities especially hard.

All eyes will be on health care for next year’s election as Harris plans to implement Medicare for all so that everyone, especially African Americans, who are the fastest growing group of uninsured in America, have access to affordable health care. More than 30 million Americans are uninsured and Harris believes that number will grow if Trump succeeds at trying to

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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE PUBLISHING COMPANY Dr. Amanda Alexander, Executive Director – Detroit Justice Center PHOTO: Andre Smith town hall at Marcus Garvey Academy on Detroit’s east side. Harris addressed the concerns of teachers around the nation as many have to work multiple jobs to pay their bills and often pay for classroom supplies with their own money.

“As president, I will make the largest investment in teacher pay in our country’s history and close that gap,” she said. “I want to give the average teacher a $13,500 a year raise.”

With Michigan being viewed as a battle state for the 2020 election, people are wondering if the NAACP was endorsing Harris.

“We don’t do that,” said Rev. Wendell Anthony. “It doesn’t hurt to come to Detroit on the way to the campaign trail. Good things happen to people who come through here.”

PHOTO: Andre Smith “destroy” ObamaCare.

“Health care should be a right, not a privilege of just those who can afford it,” she said. “Dr. King said, ‘Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health care is the most shocking and inhumane,’ and he was right.”

Harris, who launched her campaign in January, is the first Black woman to join the Democratic race. She was one of the earliest high-profile Democrats in what has become a crowded field of more than 20 presidential hopefuls in the 2020 race for the White House.

She remained in Detroit through Monday to campaign, visiting a Dearborn public school Monday afternoon, then speaking at an American Federation of Teachers

The NAACP identifies itself as a non-partisan organization and does not publicly endorse candidates.

However, Harris’ appearance in Detroit strengthens Michigan’s role as a key state for presidential candidates in the 2020 election cycle.

“We’ve invited a whole lot of folk over the past. We have a blessing and a burden this year. We have so many good people running, and the burden is that there can only be one.”

Other Democrats who have campaigned in Michigan this year include former U.S. Representative Beto O’Rourke of Texas, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York, U.S. Representative Tim Ryan of Ohio, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Cory Booker of New Jersey, Bernie Sanders of Vermont and New York businessman Andrew Yang.

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May 8-14, 2019 • michiganchronicle.com • Page A-3

PHOTO: Cydni Elledge

Students among giants From page A-1 During the dinner, I was able to converse with Gilchrist and many others.

The conversations I had with these esteemed leaders have broadened my perspective of power as they work to help the people. I am glad to have walked among these great leaders.

“I’ve attended this event since I was 6 years old and I got a chance to meet people I otherwise wouldn’t have shared space with. I met Barack Obama at this event when he was a senator…three days after I graduated from college… because he was the keynote speaker,” said Gilchrist. “It’s important for us to get exposed to people who are doing so many important and great things whose names we may not recognize. I’m proud and thankful that my grandma chose to bring me to this event with her every year.”

WOE2019 From page A-1

Dr. Tiffany Stanford, chief medical officer for the Wellness Plan and 2019 inductee, said she felt honored to receive the recognition.

“Unfortunately, we as Black women don’t get the opportunity to celebrate our success,” she said. “So, I feel very privileged to be included amongst such an illustrious group of women.”

Rachel Adenaas, the 2019 Mrs. Michigan from Grosse Pointe, came to the event to support friends and honorees: Evette Griffie, chief of staff for customer service for DTE, and Jehan Crump-Gibson, a Detroit attorney. She said the entire program was exciting because it showed a wide array of professions and activities Black women in the community are involved in and how they are making a difference in their respective fields.

“I’m so excited about it,” she said. “What this is doing is touching the community in such an impactful way because it’s so spread out in terms of all ages and all walks of life. And what they are able to do now is promote this in their individual fields — their individual worlds. And so…[it’s] growing the community in such an impactful way.”

The Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner celebrates student accomplishments as well. There was an Art and Essay Contest for students in grades 2-12, and the top three winners had their work displayed for everyone to see along the red carpet. They were also invited to attend the dinner and sit among the leaders of Detroit.

“Being in a room of over 10,000 beautiful faces was one of the greatest experiences that I’ve had. Hearing and seeing some of my favorite senators and public figures speak is a moment that I’ll never forget. One of the most surreal moments was taking a picture with Kamala Harris.

I didn’t get to speak to her as much as I’d hoped, but it was still an unforgettable experience,” said attendee Davina from West Bloomfield High School.

Kindra Parker, event director for Real Times Media said there were nearly 1,000 nominations this year, and it is one of the most successful annual events hosted by

The NAACP Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner would not be complete without the keynote speaker. Many presidential hopefuls served as past keynote speakers for the event, such as Barack Obama who spoke at the dinner in 2005 as a senator before he made history as the first black U.S. president. Current presidential candidates Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren and New Jersey Senator Cory Booker are two of the event’s past keynote speakers and were also in attendance this past Sunday.

The Skillman Foundation is a non-profit that also supports and em-

the company. The sponsors included Fifth Third Bank, DTE, Henry Ford Health System, Consumers Energy and Ascension.

She said in addition to a beautiful plaque, the inductees were featured in a special Michigan Chronicle tabloid dedicated to

Chosen to be the keynote speaker this year was Senator Kamala Harris who is also a 2020 presidential hopeful. She was a presence to behold. Of the many insightful points she made, one thing that stuck with me was her statement that, “Trump is not making American great, he is making America hate.” Her words on prison reform, gun violence and education equality left the crowd roaring with excitement.

celebrating their achievements.

“It was great,” Parker said. “The energy in the room was great. There was a lot of sisterhood and women supporting each other. It was very uplifting, encouraging and inspiring.”

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Jan Harrington Davis of Sterling Heights agreed. She was there to show support for her sister Jacqueline Howard, an honoree who is the director of corporate citizenship for Ally Bank.

“It’s very important to uplift our African-American women in corporate America,” she said. “I commend the Michigan Chronicle for recognizing women and minorities making a difference.”

powers Detroit youth. Tonya Allen, who is well-known in Detroit for the work she does as chief executive officer of the Skillman Foundation, said, “Young people should be involved in the NAACP Dinner largely because it is one of the singular places where we get a chance to talk about the issues that are happening both in our country and in our city. We need our young people to understand what is going on in order to be involved, engaged and influence the discussion that happens at dinner.”

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PHOTO: Cydni Elledge Experiencing the energy of multiple presidential candidates sharing a space in Detroit shows young people that they matter and that they can be a part of the change.

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May 8-14, 2019 | Page A-4

Community Leaders Cherish Their Memories of

Judge Damon J. Keith

By Charlene Mitchell-Rodgers Detroit and the nation have lost yet another national treasure with the passing of the Honorable Judge Damon J. Keith. His death has saddened the community and brought grief to many local leaders who enjoyed long-time friendships with the legal and civil rights icon. They express that even at the age of 96, it is still hard to accept that this humble man of pristine integrity and unwavering courage is gone.

On a personal note, I first met Federal Court Judge Keith at a V.I.P. reception during the Detroit NAACP Fight for Freedom Fund dinner in the late ‘80s. He introduced me to the guest of honor, the late globally-renowned entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. who performed his now famous “Hello Detroit” song that evening. The three of us were photographed together and that photo hangs on Judge Keith’s office wall.

Like most people who met him, I admired his spirit as well as his commitment to justice, fairness and equal treatment for all people. Those who had close relationships with Judge Keith shared with me their own thoughts about his life and legacy for The Michigan Chronicle.

Reverend Dr. Charles G. Adams – Pastor, Hartford Memorial Baptist Church, Detroit “My personal relationship with Judge Damon Keith extends over the 50 years of my pastorate at Hartford. He was a giant for social change and helped initiate the NAACP Freedom Fund Dinner in 1956 where Thurgood Marshall delivered the first keynote address. We worked together during my tenure as president of the Detroit Chapter NAACP. The successful Dearborn Boycott was victorious in court and opened doors of economic opportunity for the leading minority suppliers for Ford, GM and Chrysler. Judge Keith proclaimed truth to power, declaring that democracies die behind closed doors. In the midst of vicious attacks on the judiciary, Judge Keith continually challenged the American people to exercise active involvement and vigilance. To the very end, he lived his motto of “Equal justice under the law.” The march for social justice has lost a great champion.”

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CONTACT US 1452 Randolph • Detroit, MI 48226 • (313) 963-8100 e-mail: newsdesk@michronicle.com “The honored giant of law and jurisprudence, Judge Damon Keith was a drum major for justice and fairness who never forgot God, never wavered in his regard for the rule of law, and always exhibited a common touch with a personality that was larger than life. I will always treasure our conversations and the wisdom he shared with me.

As a former Vice Chair of the Michigan Civil Rights Commission, his rulings in the famous Hamtramck housing case and so many others were legendary in our deliberations. May he rest eternally, and may his legacy live profoundly.”

— Bishop Edgar Vann

U.S. Rep Debbie Dingell “We have lost a protector of the people and I just lost another good friend. Judge Keith was an example of the best of Michigan. John and Damon worked closely together for many years in fighting for equality for all. We are losing many giants who stood against enormous odds, lived in historical times and opened doors wider for all of us. Their spirit, courage and wisdom needs to live on.”

U.S. Rep Debbie Dingell Chief U.S. District Judge Denise Page Hood of the Eastern District of Michigan “It is a great loss to our nation and the Constitution to lose a legal giant like Judge Keith. He dedicated his legal life to protecting the rights guaranteed under our Constitution and decided some of the pressing issues of our time. He was a dedicated husband to his late wife and a loving father and grandfather. During an outstanding and demanding legal career, he found time to mentor law clerks and judges. Those of us who knew him appreciate the time he gave us.”

Judge Denise Page Hood

The Honorable Craig Strong – Judge, Wayne County Circuit Court “I had a special relationship with Judge Keith that most people don’t know about. We met on Saturdays at Eastern Market on a regular basis with a couple other friends just to discuss current events. He often discussed what it meant to have courage, citing Nelson Mandela, Thurgood Marshall and Rosa Parks. He frequently talked about how much he learned about courage from Charles Hamilton Houston, a prominent African-American lawyer who was the Dean of Howard University’s Law School and the special litigator for the NAACP. One of the things that stands out about Judge Keith is that he liked to bring people of different cultures together. He would invite groups of people to his home to share thoughts and discuss ways to solve social issues. He was a major proponent of the NAACP. Many years ago, he established a strong bond with the Jewish community, which generated active support and helped to make the Detroit Freedom Fund dinners one of the largest fundraisers in the organization’s history. Judge Keith was an icon for justice whose landmark decisions made this country fairer and greater. I will miss him tremendously.”

The Honorable Denise Langford Morris – Judge & Dean, Oakland County Circuit Court “Judge Damon Keith was OUR Supreme Court Justice. His brilliant legal mind and caring, kind heart formulated the basis of his legal decisions that benefited millions of people and will live on through infinity. He helped everyone he met, including the least of us, while constantly serving as a mentor and role model to all lawyers and judges. Judge Keith was a beacon to humanity. His documentary Walk with Me: The trials of Damon Keith should be viewed by every American. May he Rest in Peace after a life well lived.”

U.S. Congresswoman Brenda L. Lawrence –14th District of Michigan “It is with a heavy heart that I stand with the City of Detroit and individuals around the country to mourn the passing of Judge Damon Keith. The impact of his over 50 years of service as a federal judge and his life-long dedication to public service and civil rights will always be cherished and will never be forgotten. He was a trailblazer and history maker as the longest-serving Black judge in the nation.

Judge Keith paved the way and inspired us all to believe in our right to have a seat at the table and a voice in the room. I am beyond honored to have had the opportunity to work so closely to a man filled with so much knowledge and compassion for others. Judge Keith’s commitment to equality had a monumental impact on the African-American community — not only in Detroit, but across this country.”

Chuck Stokes – Host, Spotlight on the News & Editorial Director, WXYZ TV “As a Detroit journalist, I was quite fortunate to be able to interview Judge Damon J. Keith and develop a long friendship with him. He was a legal eagle who during his career soared to the very top of America’s most important judiciary courts. During his tenure on the bench, he was a courageous protector of equal rights under the law. He loved Detroit, the law and people from all walks of life.

What I also admired about the judge is how he always wore, with great pride, the values and educational foundation he received at West Virginia State University and Howard University Law School.

Judge Keith did so much for so many. He will long be remembered as a crusader and champion for all people and all seasons.”

Huel Perkins – Lead Anchor, FOX 2 News Detroit “Judge Damon Keith was a warrior for justice.

His life exemplified courage, character, intelligence and compassion. His rulings changed history and opened doors for generations to come. He was one of the greatest men I’ve ever known and I treasure the moments we shared. May God rest his soul and comfort his family.”

Congressman Dan Kildee, Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus “I am saddened to learn of the passing of Judge Keith. Damon Keith was a remarkable man and respected judge. As one of the nation’s longest serving judges, Judge Keith played a role in court decisions that helped to expand civil rights and protect civil liberties for all Americans. Because of Judge Keith’s work on the federal bench, our state and the country have been changed for the better.”

Congressman Dan Kildee Michigan Court of Appeals Judge Cynthia Stephens: “Judge Keith spoke at my graduation from Cass Tech High School in 1968. It was looking and listening to him that I realized I could be a judge. He exemplified to a 16-year-old Cynthia what she could do.

And he was an individual who not only by his own efforts and work aggressively recruited, hired and promoted black excellence through the years. His law clerk roster was a hall of fame, including Lani Guinier and Jennifer Granholm. I went to Uganda to train judges in 2013 and the chief judge there asked if I knew Damon Keith.”

Judge Cynthia Stephens Kim Trent, chairperson, Wayne State Board of Governors “Obviously, Judge Keith was a giant of the legal community, but he was also a giant in the Wayne State community as evidenced by the naming of the Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights at the law school. We plan to honor his memory and continue his legacy by training a new generation of civil rights lawyers.”

Kim Trent Former Detroit Mayor Dennis Archer: “I met Judge Keith when I was privileged to be a law clerk in his firm in 1967 while I was in law school. Through the summer he became a mentor to be and he has been one ever since. Judge Keith shared with me, as he did with all his law clerks, how important it is to be ethical, to keep your client’s trust and to be fair. Anytime, anything came and I wanted to know what to do, I would go to him and he was kind enough to give me advice. He had a way of helping people come to the right conclusion without telling them what to do. Whenever I met lawyers or judges anywhere in this nation, the first thing they wanted to know is ‘How’s Judge Keith.’ He could have run for any office, but he loved being a judge.”

Dennis Archer

Judge Keith impacted my life in such a profound way!!! His humility was unprecedented, yet he was a Civil Rights Icon and Jurist who stood on the Law of the Land and tempered his rulings shaped by his Christian Morals and Values. He truly walked with Kings and Queens, Presidents, Governors and Mayors, Senators and Members of Congress, yet he NEVER lost the common touch!!! He told me to ALWAYS BE FAITHFUL TO THE TRUTH AND NEVER NEGOTIATE MY INTEGRITY!!! He said, “In the end, your Word and your Integrity are all you have.” He was also an invaluable treasure to The City of Detroit. He loved Detroit with all his heart as well as her Institutions. He spearheaded the Campaign to save the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History as well as raised millions of dollars for other Detroit Institutions. He Coordinated The Funeral Services for Mrs. Rosa Parks to make sure she received the highest honor paid to her. I never shall forget how he elated he was to have a Black Pilot fly the plane carrying Mother Parks’ Body to Montgomery, Alabama, Washington, D.C. and then back to Detroit. He said, “Ken, we had a Black Pilot on Southwest Airlines and I was SO HAPPY!!! Mrs. Parks DESERVED TO HAVE A BLACK PILOT!!!” Detroit can be proud of you for producing a Giant among its citizens who kept his feet firmly on the ground even though God Almighty had elevated him to a much higher plain. GOOD NIGHT my spiritual father. I’ll see you in the morning.

– Pastor Kenneth Flowers

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Attorney at Law Godfrey Dillard – Civil Rights Lawyer, Detroit “I first met Judge Keith as a young lawyer through my mentor and civil rights icon, Attorney Milton R. Henry. Milton had filed Davis v. School District of the City of Pontiac, the school desegregation case that first brought Judge Keith to national prominence as a Federal District Judge. It was clear to me that he believed discrimination against Negroes needed to end now, not tomorrow.

On a more intimate note, I had the pleasure of working out with him at the old downtown Detroit YMCA and on the track at the University of Detroit Jesuit High School. He believed a healthy body was necessary for a discerning and inquisitive mind, which I am sure contributed to his long, productive and active life.

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May 8-14, 2019 • michiganchronicle.com • Page A-5

Judge Damon J. Keith: A Role Model for Us All

By Trevor W. Coleman Growing up in upstate New York, it always felt as if African-American male role models — who were empowered and commanded public respect — were, quite frankly, few and far between.

From the time I started school in the mid-60s until I graduated in the late ‘70s, I didn’t have one Black male teacher. In fact, I had only one Black teacher in general — a part-time music teacher who was a woman.

Judge Keith received his master of laws from Wayne State in 1956 and remained committed to his alma mater throughout the rest of his life. We opened the Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights on our campus in 2011 to promote the educational, economic and political power of underrepresented communities in urban settings. Judge Keith was deeply committed to civil rights for all people, and the Center upholds his values in everything it does.

Needless to say, I had to look elsewhere for Black male inspiration — someone who could instill a sense of pride in me beyond my admiration of superstars like Reggie Jackson, Julius Erving or OJ Simpson.

I will never forget the feelings of awe and pride I experienced while flipping through EBONY’s annual feature on the “100 Most Influential Black Americans” while in the sixth grade.

I was so impressed by the stories and vignettes of all the prominent men and women who either looked like me or people I knew. I asked the librarian if I could have the magazine and she obliged. I took it home, cut out the pages of featured subjects’ headshots and tacked it up on my bedroom wall, right next to my New York Yankees and New York Giants posters.

“We are all mourning the loss of Judge Damon Jerome Keith, an outstanding civil rights pioneer, federal judge and great friend of Wayne State. I had the honor of being sworn in as the 12th president of Wayne State University by Judge Keith, but it meant even more to me to have met the man. At my swearing in ceremony Judge Keith said, “For Wayne State to be great, it has to be good.” I have used those apt words as my guiding light in the leadership of Wayne State.

A quick litany of his accomplishments wouldn’t adequately tell the story of this great man, who served 10 U.S. presidents and led from the bench efforts to racially desegregate schools, at a time when there was overwhelming opposition to such a move. His bravery and compassion marked every decision he made in his position as a federal judge, and we are all grateful for the momentous change he affected in the national social conscience.

What’s more, I recall seeing only one Black male professional in my entire town. No Black doctor. No Black lawyer. No Black journalist.

No Black engineer, architect, professor, nurse, police officer, fireman or even a Black postman.

However, because I aspired to be a writer, I fortunately took interest in EBONY Magazine, which was the go-to source to learn about prominent African Americans who were impacting the world beyond sports and entertainment. It was a good source for us poor kids who took pride in seeing their successes and in seeing how the “other half” lived.

Statement from Wayne State University President M. Roy Wilson

Greatness is not randomly conferred on people. It comes from a place in the heart and the soul that defies easy explanation. Damon J. Keith was a great man. The Wayne State community mourns his passing and pledges to honor his legacy through our work in the Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights, and by striving to prepare the next generation of leaders to carry his work forward.”

Statement from Wayne State University Dean Richard A. Bierschbach Judge Damon Keith and Trevor Coleman action with him — ever. He simply seemed important in my pre-adolescent eyes. Looking back, I think his kind smile suggested a certain kind of accessibility for someone as curious and ambitious as I was back then.

Little did I know, nearly 20 years later (when I began working for the Detroit News in 1990) our paths would cross as I moved up through the ranks of journalism.

I also circled the photos of the people I hoped to meet one day.

Among them was Federal Judge Damon J. Keith of Detroit.

We had a chance encounter three years later on an airplane heading to Cincinnati from Detroit.

By then I had familiarized myself with many of his most prominent cases and came to appreciate the larger-than-life role he played in my new hometown of Detroit.

It wasn’t that I was familiar with his body of work, had seen him on television or had any kind of inter-

At a time in our nation’s history when even influential African Americans seem to be seduced

by the lure of power, Judge Keith was a living, breathing reminder of what it means to be a true leader.

Even as his memory faded, energy slipped and physical body tired, his spirit stayed strong. Let the record show: Judge Keith’s cases demonstrated he was a fighter for justice up until the very end.

He was a leader who heeded Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s exhortation to appreciate the “fierce urgency of now.”

As a savvy lawyer, he used all the instruments in his toolbox to make a positive difference in the lives of all, but in the lives of his fellow African Americans in particular because we needed him most.

He was a role model for us all.

And for that, we should be eternally grateful.

“We’ve lost one of the greatest civil rights champions of our time. For more than 50 years, Judge Damon J. Keith has been an unwavering voice for those who have been unjustly silenced. As dean of Wayne State University Law School, proud home to the Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights, I know that his legacy will live on in the eyes and hearts of our Damon J. Keith Scholars and every student who learns the law in the center that bears his name.

Judge Keith was the first member of his family to earn a college degree and went on to earn his master of laws from Wayne Law in 1956. For some of our students, he is the reason they came to law school, and specifically to our law school. Because of Judge Keith, those students are out in the world changing it for the better.

Words feel inadequate to describe the life of a man who changed the fabric of a nation and how much he meant to the Wayne Law community — he was an extraordinary person and a compass for courage and justice, but that does not even begin to capture the full measure of his character or the impact he had and will continue to have on all of us.”

INVESTING IN DETROIT’S FUTURE Over the next five years, we’re investing $500 million to upgrade the city’s water and sewer systems. We’re working hard across the city at a faster rate than ever before, with a neighborhood approach.

This is our commitment to Detroit – now and in the future.

WE’RE WORKING HARD FOR YOU.

Valerion F.

DWSD ENGINEER

Learn more at detroitmi.gov/DWSD or call 313-267-8000.

Page A-6 • michiganchronicle.com •

May 8-14, 2019

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michiganchronicle.com

Oak Park students file into the school’s auditorium for the Vizion 4 Change Celebrity Career Day. PHOTO: Quatiece Salter/LXVE Media

Vizion 4 Change Celebrity Career Day eyes Oak Park High

By Branden Hunter At your typical high school career day, you can expect to see all five branches of the military, a few college graduates will stop by to tell their successes, and some entrepreneurs and everyday working people will share their experiences. That is great and all, but not every student wants to pursue those career paths.

Vizion 4 Change held its inaugural career day at Oak Park High School and brought along with them some of the hottest names in the entertainment industry from the city of Detroit. Vizion 4 Change is a non-profit organization that focuses on empowering youth ages 12-18 through mentorship and career building.

“I founded Vizion 4 Change earlier this year. I’ve always worked with the youth, I just wanted to put a title behind it,” said Desmond “Kid Clever” Lester, founder of Vizion 4 Change and Oak Pak class of 2004 graduate. “I like to mentor and sow into the kids, because leading by example and having people around you that have been there before is important.”

Lester said when he attended Oak Park High School, they did not have careers days that truly grabbed the students’ attention and sparked their interest. The entertainment business in Detroit is ever popular, and as someone who owns a entertainment company himself, Lester invited some of his friends in the business to share resources, take photos, and network with future professionals.

The career day featured the likes of Empire Records A&R J-Dee, budding comedy rapper Gmac Cash, music producer Antt Beatz, and authors Justin Gordon and Lee Johnson, among others.

“It’s important for the kids to see people that are from their neighbor-

Vizion 4 Change founder Desmond Lester and Detroit rapper Gmac Cash. PHOTO: Quatiece Salter/LXVE Media hoods and are just like them making it,” added Lester. “I’m not in a suit. I’m here talking to these kids in a jean shirt and Jordans. The same clothes they wear, we wear, and we just want to meet the kids where they are in life and be relatable.”

J-Dee, whose real name is Joel Simpson, has an impressive resume, managing the likes of Deelishis, K. Michelle, Dusty McFly, Dej Loaf, Tee Grizzley, and many others. He took time out of his business schedule to share his story of selling drugs at the age of 12, seeing his mother on drugs, and throwing a prom-

ising basketball and football career at Detroit Southwestern away, to overcoming all of that to get where he is now in life.

“I feel it was necessary that I be here,” Simpson said on speaking at the career day. “These kids are what they see and as I continue to grow, I have to feed into them, letting them know that you don’t have to be a rapper or basketball player. There are a lot jobs behinds the scenes that make great money and you can make a great impact. I just wanted to come back and give them some game that I didn’t get.”

As the Oak Park students filed into the school’s media center, a number of them saw Antt Beatz, and their eyes lit up. He has produced for some of the top rappers in Detroit, including Tee Grizzley, Icewear Vezzo, 42 Dugg, Peezy, Eminem, and many others. He even allowed some Oak Park students to rap for him and exchanged contact information.

“I’m a night-time person and I just left the studio at 6 a.m., but I wanted to come here and provide some inspiration,” said Antt Beatz, who started rap-

See VIZION 4 CHANGE page B-2

Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence hosts luncheon for millennial black women

By Branden Hunter Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence hosted a free community town hall called, “The State of Black America” Friday at Wayne State University, as she welcomed members of the Congressional Black Caucus to Michigan.

The event was held inside the university’s McGregor Memorial Conference Center and special guests included Congresswoman Karen Bass, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, as well as other members of the caucus, which was formed in 1971.

Prior to that, the “Young Gifted and Black: Millennial Women Take Their Seat at the Table” luncheon was held. During the panel, the issues of professional development, entrepreneurship, social media, and homelessness were covered. The goal of the luncheon was to move the conversation forward of implementing strong policies and ideas to benefit millennial women of color.

Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence. PHOTO: Jalen Morgan

The panel discussion was

Bre’Ann White, Amber Lewis, Brittni “Bee” Brown, and Kady Cox PHOTO: Jalen Morgan

moderated by Brittni “Bee” Brown, founder and CEO of the Bee Agency. The panelists included: Arielle Johnson, founder and CEO of Fierce Detroit, Courtney Smith, founder and CEO of The Phoenix Center, Digital and Social Media Manager for the City of Detroit, Amber Lewis, and Kady Cox, Political Organizer and Founder of Raising Awareness with Students.

“This gives me a rush, seeing the future of my people. Seeing the future, young black women that have assembled here today, I am so excited,” Lawrence said to a room of about 100 millennial women. “Millennial women have a special place in my heart. This generation has some unique challenges, which will require

See LUNCHEON page B-2

Page B-2 • michiganchronicle.com • May 8-14, 2019

Panelists Amber Lewis, Arielle Johnson, Brittni Brown, Courtney Smith, and Kady Cox PHOTO: Jalen Morgan

Arielle Martin and Danielle Hughes. PHOTO: Jalen Morgan

Luncheon

it, has interned at the White House during the Obama administration, and has worked on the ground with other non-profits and grassroots organizations and multiple campaigns in other states to discuss international policy.

From page B-1

some unique solutions. The challenges we face deserve attention and action and I am so proud to stand with you every day to fight.”

Black women are the only racial or ethnic group with more business ownership than their male peers. In 2018, there were 2.4 million African-American women-owned businesses. One of those businesses is FIERCE Detroit, which stands for Female Icons Encouraging Real Concepts of Empowerment.

Johnson founded the business in 2012 to assist young mothers in need. She also started FIERCE Staffing, providing career pathways for young people through exceptional training. She, too, was a young mother in college at Michigan State and watched her own mother escape a troubled relationship, moving her children from Kansas to Detroit only to become homeless.

“What got us to where we are today, were the small non-profit organizations that helped empower my family,” said Johnson. “Watching what happens when a black woman is empowered and is able to empower her children is a beautiful thing. All of my sisters have gone on to college and are serving our communities is some capacity. I am a living example of what happens when a black woman is empowered and gets the resources to succeed.”

Lewis operates the city and mayor’s social media, which is a very important

“Service has gotten me a long way from what I used to do,” said Cox. “Service is the rent you pay for your time here on earth and I think giving back has allowed me to have connections with people, jobs, and other opportunities. My mom instilled volunteering into my life and it plays a very intricate part in everything I do.”

Panelists Kady Cox, Courtney Smith, and Arielle Johnson. PHOTO: Jalen Morgan job, connecting with Detroiters, developing relationships, and making sure residents have access to resources and information, among other things. But her professional job does not limit her from utilizing and incorporating her other skills she uses in her personal life.

“I know of a lot of women who are trailblazing in their respective fields and breaking into male-dominated fields, including myself,” said Lewis. “Everybody on this panel is multifaceted in the skills that they have and being in positions where you can come to the table

and provide all of your skill sets is important. Me, personally, I do social media, but I also host and do playlists and the city of Detroit allows me to utilize of all my skill sets.”

Professional development is learning to earn or maintain professional credentials such as academic degrees to formal coursework, attending conferences, and informal learning opportunities situated in practice. Cox’s resume is impressive as they come for a 24-year-old. She is the founder of Raising Awareness with Students, a health awareness non-prof-

It is a disturbing fact, but Michigan is one of the top 10 states for human trafficking. Those most at risk are homeless youth. Smith learned firsthand the challenges homeless youth face on the streets and founded the Detroit Phoenix Center to not only create a world where every young person has a place to call home but to combat a world that preys on their dire circumstances.

“The young women that I serve are incredibly vulnerable,” said Smith. “One in five homeless youth in Detroit are victims of human trafficking. Any young person that has to compromise or feels they have to compromise their human dignity for shelter, clothing, food or water is in danger. And that is the reason why we opened the Detroit Phoenix Center because we believed no young person should have to sleep with someone for a meal or a place to stay. Food and shelter is a right and we need everyone to be educated on how we can end homelessness and human trafficking in our communities.”

Brand producer Courtney Randolph and the creator of Kill The Hate clothing. PHOTO: Quatiece Salter/LXVE Media Music producer Antt Beatz and rapper Gmac Cash listen to Oak Park students freestyle.

PHOTO:

Quatiece Salter/LXVE Media

Vizion 4 Change From page B-1

ping at age 9 and made his first beat at age 12. “I had people that were close to me who didn’t believe in my vision and what I wanted to do. I wanted to let the kids know that you have to believe in yourself and if you have something that you want to do, follow through with it.”

Gmac Cash has been all over the internet and the news for his parody videos where he has rapped about eating Popeyes Chicken, needing an EBT card at Walmart, bills, asking for gas money, the snow in Detroit, and other relatable topics. The 26-year-old has become an internet and YouTube sensation, but also wanted to share his story for the first time of being fired from Chrysler

for a music video he recorded and how that event pushed him to pursue his craft more.

“I never had the opportunity to reach out to the kids and I always wanted to,” said Gmac Cash, who is performing at a safety rally at Detroit King High School Friday. “The youth support me more than anybody and I wanted to give back to them.

I wanted to let them know that they can do anything they want and that they do not have to follow the image of anyone else. They can create their own lane and be themselves.”

Lester has been giving back to the community for over five years. In January, he teamed up with DTLR Villa, Timberland, and STAPLE where Oak Park students served as brand ambassadors for a national campaign. Lester said he wants to the Vizion 4 Change Celebrity Career Day to tour other high schools in the future.

www.michiganchronicle.com

At your fingertips Follow Us On

facebook.com/michiganchronicle @michronicle Empire Records A&R J-Dee. PHOTO: Quatiece Salter/LXVE Media

May 8-14, 2019 • michiganchronicle.com • Page B-3

Michigan Roundtable for Diversity and Inclusion announces its inaugural Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Conference The Michigan Roundtable for Diversity and Inclusion is hosting its inaugural Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Conference on Thursday, May 16, 2019. The theme for the conference is Equipping the Workplace for Transformational Change.

“Understanding our region’s history of segregation and exclusion is critically important for those tasked with shaping a culture of diversity, inclusion and equity,” said

tor of the Haas Institute for a Fair and Inclusive Society at the University of California, Berkeley.

He is a professor of Law, African American Studies, and Ethnic Studies at UC Berkeley and author of several books, including his most recent work, “Racing to Justice: Transforming our Concepts of Self and Other

to Build an Inclusive Society.”

The conference is the ideal forum for human resource professionals, diversity leaders, CEOs and other executive leaders, community leaders, law enforcement, educators, employee resource groups (ERG), supplier diversity professionals and anyone interested in

developing their understanding of the need for a greater focus on inclusion and equity in the workplace.

College. The Roundtable is grateful for support from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and Flagstar Foundation.

This full-day event is supported by a growing list of sponsors including: LEAR Corporation, Comerica, MASCO, Mercantile Bank, Chemical Bank, Aerotek, Edward Jones and Schoolcraft

Contact Steve Spreitzer for more information on how to become a sponsor – (313) 870-1500 or email sspreitzer@miroundtable.org. Visit the conference website at www.mrdidiversityconfer-

ence.com The Michigan Roundtable for Diversity and Inclusion has been a not-for-profit human relations and racial justice organization located in Detroit working to overcome discrimination and racism by crossing racial, religious, ethnic and cultural boundaries for the past 78 years.

John A. Powell Steve Spreitzer, President and CEO, Michigan Roundtable. “This conference will equip participants with knowledge and tools to use in their workplaces and communities to start or continue the important work that will bring about the changes needed to ensure all people are treated fairly and equitably.”

The conference will be held at Marygrove College, 8425 W. McNichols, Detroit MI, in the Madame Cadillac Building.

It offers a full day of workshops, panel discussions, featured speakers, and networking opportunities.

Professor John A. Powell will deliver the lunchtime keynote address. Dr. powell is an internationally recognized expert in the areas of civil rights, civil liberties, structural racism, housing, poverty, and democracy. Powell is the Direc-

State-of-the-art spine procedures that begin with the art of listening.

At DMC, we treat our patients as partners in improving their quality of life. Our teams of spine specialists and physical therapists will be there to coach you through every step of the way to getting you back to you. Visit dmc.org/SpineCenter to find a physician.

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Page B-4 • michiganchronicle.com • May 8-14, 2019

A.M.E. Pastor To Launch Official City Council Campaign In Farmington Hills

By Cherie Curry

ber, which will raise around $8-9 million each year. Before this, individual home owners were having to pay to get their roads repaved,” said Burns.

The Rev. John Burns is no stranger to community involvement. He has dedicated a lifetime to strengthening communities and empowering citizens within.

Additionally, Burns would like to see the auto insurance rates decrease.

“I believe our insurance rates should be based on how well our residents drive in the area… as opposed to the incidents that occur on the highways, for example I-696 and I-275. Those incidents and accidents impact our costs as residents,” said Burns.

That same dedication has come front and center as he prepares to officially launch his campaign on Saturday, May 4th, at 10 a.m. in Nardin Park, to run for Farmington Hills City Council.

“Because I am devoted to this community, I understand the good. I can see the better,” said Burns.

The City Council Candidate has spent recent months actively engaged with the public since filing his nominating petitions and securing his name on the ballot.

“I spend a lot of time in a listening campaign…talking to people at various venues,” said Burns.

Talking to people in the community about issues that matter.

Rev. John Burns “We need a moral revival in our politics. And I do believe that I can bring a sense of sensitivity. I can project a certain sense of caring and demeanor that can set a tone. And I believe I have already begun,” said Burns.

“In Farmington Hills, they are pretty well-informed and they are well-engaged folks. I have found that inspiring and challenging…to make sure that I am thinking about the things that they are thinking about,” said Burns.

Burns says strengthening Public Safety for the city, including increasing neighborhood watches and decreasing the disproportionate amount of people of color in the courts, would be a top priority. Addressing city services would be another goal.

Burns cited certain issues with the libraries, schools and school boards as some of the prominent concerns of residents. He has vowed to tackle those areas of concerns…as well as topics central to his campaign platform.

“Overall we are pretty good with our Public Safety and our services. But the quality of the roads continue to be a concern. I did work on a Road Millage Committee and we were able to get a millage passed for the roads last Novem-

Although this is Burns first foray into running for city government, it is by no means his first venture into politics. He has worked on previous campaigns for community and political organizations and has acquired more than 40 years of volunteer service as a community-based lay health educator, organizer and public speaker.

He served as Chairperson of the Membership Committee for the Multi-Cultural/Multi-Racial Community Council of Farmington and remains an active member in such organizations as the Farmington Area Interfaith Association, Michigan Faith in Action, People Power and the Farmington Hills Democratic Club.

Burns, who moved to Farmington Hills 5 years ago, has brought to the community a pioneering spirit. As an ordained Pastor, both he and his wife, Dr. Patricia Coleman-Burns, established the First African Methodist Episcopal Church (F.A.M.E) on W. 11 Mile Road in

Farmington Hills in 2015. Both preside over Sunday services that are open to the public.

Dr. Coleman-Burns says she is excited that Burns is throwing his hat into the local political ring. She believes he brings a lot of qualities to the table that distinguishes him from other candidates.

“Having been married for 41 years, I have been the beneficiary of so many of his creative ideas…his ability to identify issues that emerge out of the community. He has the ability to not just listen, but take those issues… turn them into action and respond to a vision,” said Coleman-Burns Burns’ vision these days is to continue to build roots in the area and provide top-notch service to residents in the Farmington Hills community…a community he characterizes as having a tremendous amount to offer.

“There is a richness in the community, not only in terms of money, but in the values of the people.

“Farmington Hills is a beautiful and diverse community. People move here because they like the public services ….the beautiful parks, the libraries. We need to be able to continue that and expand that,” said Burns.

The Rev. John Burns will be hosting a Campaign Breakfast on May 4, 2019, from 10 a.m. to noon, at Nardin Park United Methodist Church (UMC), located at 29887 W. 11 Mile Road in Farmington Hills.

Black Superhero Dangerman Visits Detroit, Toledo and Chicago With “Books Not Bullets” School Tour!

America’s Black Superhero, the Real Life Urban Superhero, DangerMan, is known for his many heroic feats, and inspiring and motivating kids is one of them. DangerMan embarked on his “Books Not Bullets” national school tour, visiting schools in Detroit, Toledo and Chicago! Stops in Detroit included the Southfield Library, Greenfield Union Elementary & Middle School, Focus Hope - Center for Children, Jefferson Elementary School and Detroit Innovation Academy.

tor, producer, recording artist, mentor and philanthropist Roger I. Tinsley, the founder of the DangerMan Urban Superhero brand and CEO/President of the DangerMan Education Foundation, Inc., a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. The action hero recently celebrated a 20-year anniversary and has steadily evolved into the fastest growing superhero brand in the world, giving back with many philanthropic activities, all centered around helping to make the world a better place.

Delivering a message of hope and aspirations for success, the “Books Not Bullets” tour serves to empower children to choose books, reading and life, over guns, bullets and violence! The tour is generously sponsored by U.S. Bank.

“While most Superheroes are fighting monsters from other planets, DangerMan is fighting the villains right here in our community, who victimize and prey on the children and seniors in our cities daily,” cites Tinsley. “DangerMan encourages children to live their best life through education and by liv-

DangerMan was created by ac-

ing a healthy lifestyle, staying in school, working hard, dreaming bigger and never giving up! DangerMan is excited to spread his message nationally and is particularly looking forward to visiting Detroit, his hometown.”

Tinsley first introduced DangerMan to America in 1998 after being emotionally impacted by the death of a four-year-old. The young toddler was riding in the car with her parents to a birthday party in her new blue dress, when a stray bullet from a gang member gun crashed through back window. Tinsley felt compelled to create a real-life super hero who could serve as a role model for school age children in underserved communities while addressing issues that specifically affected them. Using his own money and resources he created DangerMan, the Urban Superhero.

Michigan Chronicle

Congratulations

to the finalists of the

2019 S.W.A.G. Awards!

Zariah Bridges

Renaissance High School

Cameron Collins Detroit Country Day

Mackenzie Cook Cousino High School

Destiny Harris

Southfield High School for the Arts & Technology

Terrell McDowell

River Rouge High School

A Celebration of our

Future Stars Please join us for an uplifting evening as we honor Metro Detroit’s brightest young stars and announce the winners of the 4th Annual Michigan Chronicle S.W.A.G. Awards (Students Wired For Achievement & Greatness.)

Gregory Miller ll

Cass Technical High School

Zaria Pope

Cass Technical High School

Austin Raymond

University of Detroit Jesuit High School

Dustin Sims

University High School Academy

Dorian Smalley

Renaissance High School

Maya Solomon

Cass Technical High School

Monet Stewart

A celebration of student success beyond academic achievement, S.W.A.G. Awards recipients have demonstrated a commitment to community, service & integrity and will be recognized at a ceremony and receive scholarship grants from $2K - $10K.

RSVP by May 8th, 2019 to events@michronicle.com

Chippewa Valley High School

Taylor Vasser

Detroit Edison Public School Academy Early College Excellence

Wednesday, May 15 2019 6 pm Reception | 7 pm Program

Detroit Athletic Club

241 Madison Street Detroit, MI 48226

B5

| May 8-14, 2019

Money.

Focus: HOPE to Hold Open House for Job Training Programs Scholarship-based courses are free for most students Since 1981, Focus: HOPE has opened the door to job opportunities for metro Detroiters through its free career training programs. The non-profit civil and human rights organization is recruiting new students at a Workforce Development and Education Open House on Wednesday, May 8, from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.

The event is on Focus: HOPE’s Detroit campus at 1400 Oakman Boulevard. Attendees will learn about training programs for a variety of jobs, such as Hi-Lo/Forklift Operator, CNC Operator, CDL Truck Driver, Logistics, Robotics and Welding Technician, and Production Operator. Successful completion of the workforce training programs can lead to jobs with starting wages of $12 to $20 per hour.

“These are positions that are in high demand today, due to an increase in construction, manufacturing and technology-related projects,” said Focus: HOPE CEO Portia Roberson. “We work with our industry partners to get the students placed in jobs, and our education and training programs give them an advantage over the competition. The training also can help jumpstart an even more lucrative career. The opportunities are endless.”

To qualify for the job training program, participants must be 18 years or older with a valid government-issued driver’s license or ID, and they must be committed to completing the training and actively participating in the job placement process.

michiganchronicle.com

Small businesses and entrepreneurs: How to navigate the headwinds of change

By Mark S. Lee and David Girodat Small businesses are a massive source of employment. The Small Business Administration (SBA) reports that smaller companies employ 47.5 percent of the private U.S. workforce. According to 2012 U.S. Census figures, there are nearly 62,000 small businesses in Detroit and about 152,000 across Michigan.

Entrepreneurship helps build the middle class by giving lower-income populations a chance to prosper more quickly and exponentially than they might as someone else’s employee.

Small business ownership also gives women, minorities and other underrepresented groups the opportunity to create the job they want.

Fortunately, Detroit and surrounding communities have efforts underway to support the underrepresented entrepreneurs, including the Detroit Development Fund’s Entrepreneurs of Color Fund and even Walsh College’s Entrepreneur You forum for women.

While Detroit’s entrepreneurial ecosystem continues to emerge and become more robust, there are still challenges and potential headwinds on the horizon which need to be navigated. According to various reports, the economy is poised to slow down later this year or in 2020.

■ In fact, Fifth Third has identified four emerging themes which could see a shift from the current tailwinds to a headwind later this year or in to 2020:

For more information on the Work■E xpect the U.S. Economy to grow force Development and Education Open more slowly than last year, but still House on May 8th, contact Focus: HOPE’s Admissions Office at: admissions@fo2019 Reading Chron half page_Layout 1 5/6/2019 12:04 PM Page 1deliver above-trend growth. cushope.edu or 313-494-4300. To register ■M anufacturing jobs are back and for the event, go to: http://bit.ly/fhoh2019. growing in the United States.

Mark S. Lee

David Girodat

■T he Federal Reserve’s full employment mandate has not been met.

What can businesses prepare for to potentially navigate shifting headwinds?

■W e are still in the 8th inning of our expansion, but closely watching for the start of the 9th.

■S o, what does this mean for businesses?

■A re businesses ready to quickly adjust to potential challenges?

With the continued shift in overall skill sets in manufacturing, for example, are businesses fully prepared to address the talent gaps required to meet changing talent demands?

Surviving more challenging times takes skills, perseverance and passion for long-term goals. Implementing the following practices can help ensure your business’ survival and even allow it to thrive during a potential economic downturn.

Improve your cash flow: Cash flow is the lifeblood of your business; to keep your small business healthy, cash needs to continue flowing through. No matter how tough times get, having cash flow through your business will help you ride the storm.

Cut off unnecessary costs: There are costs your business can cut to stay afloat. They range from electricity consumption to office tea. Efficiently handling your appliances and office equipment also plays a role in cost-cutting.

Inventory management: You can do something to reduce inventory costs without sacrificing the quality of goods or inconveniencing customers. Just

See SMALL

BUSINESSES page B6

WCCCD Promotes Literacy with the Chancellor’s Twelfth Annual Reading Carnival!

Interactive programs, storytelling and exciting giveaways will be included in a day of family fun at the Wayne County Community College District’s (WCCCD) 12th Annual Chancellor’s Reading Carnival for Children. The program will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 18, 2019 at WCCCD’s Downtown Campus located at 1001 W. Fort Street in Detroit. The annual program is the biggest event every year of the Bookworm Club, the group that WCCCD’s First Lady, Ola Ivery, and her husband, WCCCD Chancellor, Dr. Curtis L. Ivery, founded approximately 16 years ago.

The event is open to the public at no cost and aimed at providing a safe, educational and fun environment for children in pre-K to sixth grade. Highlights will include storytelling and interactive programs that allow children to engage with stories and books in multiple ways. Face painting, games, and a range of fairytale activities surround children in a storybook environment, allowing them to be immersed in a world of imagination. Children and families will also receive book bags filled with books and other school supplies to help them continue the experience at home. For more information about the reading carnival, contact Priscilla Rodgers at 313-496-2510 or visit www.wcccd.edu.

Page B-6 • michiganchronicle.com • May 8-14, 2019

Small businesses

rected the city to allow up to 20 medical marijuana provisioning centers and an unlimited number of growers, processors, secured transporters and safety compliance facilities, subject to limitations of state and local law. The proposal was determined in a recount to have passed by one vote.

From page B-5

because you’ve always ordered goods from a particular supplier or done things in a particular way doesn’t mean you have to keep doing them that way—especially when the other ways may save you money.

Diversify your products: Economic downturns can be a good time to take the risk that makes one an entrepreneur. This may be a time to expand your business portfolio and invest in areas that present an opportunity. Why? Recessions don’t last forever.

And once things improve you will be glad you were buying when most people were selling. Also, look for ways to broaden the appeal of your products. This way, you may not just be maintaining and growing your business, you could equally be adapting it for a different market.

Offer valuable customer service: The last thing you want during tough times is the loss of customers. Your clients are your lifeblood during an economic downturn—you should fight to keep them.

Additionally, there are programs and resources available to support small businesses. And, the Michigan Small Business Development Center and Small Business Association of Michigan both offer a variety of tools and information to new and growing small businesses.

The good news is that while ups and downs in the economy are a given, businesses – small and large alike – can equip themselves with the knowledge, strategies and resources needed to navigate any headwinds.

The views expressed by the authors are not necessarily those of Fifth Third Bank and are solely the opinions of the authors. This article is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute the rendering of legal, accounting, or other professional services

by Fifth Third Bank or any of their subsidiaries or affiliates and are provided without any warranty whatsoever.

Pontiac’s Community Benefits Wish List ■ Naming rights for capital improvements at the Phoenix Center.

■ Economic development projects in the neighborhoods surrounding medical Marijuana businesses.

■ The design and refurbishment of Crystal Lake Park.

■ Refurbish and renovate Ewalt Center and Galloway Park.

■ Underwriting a citywide sports league such as basketball with uniforms designed for business promotion.

■ Funding additional public safety patrols to handle the influx of medical marijuana businesses.

IT’S APPROVED!

Pontiac’s Medical Marijuana Business Application Process Begins New businesses present opportunity for community benefits Mayor names city’s community benefits ‘wish list’.

The City of Pontiac will begin taking applications for certain medical marijuana facilities April 15 after the City Council’s approval last week of a zoning ordinance amendment for the new businesses.

Consistent with the ordinance adopted by Pontiac residents in August 2018, the City Clerk will be accepting applications for medical marijuana growers, processors, safety compliance facilities, and secured transporters. The City Clerk will announce a 21-day period during which medical marijuana applications will be accepted.

Mayor Deirdre Waterman said the new businesses have the potential to help contribute to Pontiac’s economic and cultural revival with community benefit agreements targeting areas such as the education and enrichment of the city’s youth; the quality of life of residents; and improvements in Pontiac’s neighborhoods.

The Mayor is urging the City Clerk to give greater weight to community benefit proposals that dovetail with Pontiac’s most urgent priorities as a community. A “wish list” of Pontiac’s top priority projects can be found below.

The zoning amendments approved by council allow for no more than five provisioning centers in downtown; no more than five in the Walton Boulevard zoning map overlay district; no more than five in the Cesar Chavez Avenue district; and no more than five in the remainder of the city, subject to limitations of state law and the zoning amendment.

Council’s 7-0 vote to approve the medical marijuana ordinance comes after eight months of intense debate, two town hall meetings for citizen input, multiple amendments and delays.

Mayor Waterman vetoed an earlier council ordinance in March that did not include provisions needed for the protection of the community.

The changes reflected in the final ordinance include the prohibition of drive-thru windows at provisioning centers; the barring of medical marijuana businesses within the same facilities as non-medical marijuana businesses; a requirement for odor management using carbon filters; and restrictions on signage and lighting at medical marijuana businesses.

“This is a great moment for the City of Pontiac, “Mayor Waterman said after the April 9 vote. “We’ve come together as a city with respect for the will of the voters.”

Pontiac residents approved Proposal 1 in the August 2018 election. The proposal di-

■ Naming rights for a prototype Pontiac gateway sign.

■ Matching funds for road and sidewalk repair grants.

■ Sponsorship of a street fair or festival such as the Dream Cruise or Pontiac Music Festival.

■ A Pontiac Youth Recreation Center Bookmobile in order to reach children in their neighborhoods.

■ Donate to the Promise Zone to fund the first two years of post-high school studies for Pontiac High School graduates who meet the program criteria.

■ Funding of the Oakland University / Pontiac Initiative community grant program.

■ Funding a business incubator in Pontiac.

Sponsoring rooms at the Pontiac Youth and Enrichment Center such as an exercise and weightlifting room; an arcade with video equipment; a “Read To Me” children’s room with kiddie computers.

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Faith.

| May 8-14, 2019

michiganchronicle.com

Remembering Judge Keith

By Freda G. Sampson How do I reflect on the great legacy of Federal Judge Damon J. Keith, whom I affectionally called “Uncle Damon”?

I am truly honored and humbled to have been in the proximity of his light, and I join the hundreds, no thousands who stand upon his broad shoulders and shadows of justice and judicial integrity.

There are very few extraordinary individuals that have the kind of impact that continues to permeate through generations. Someone whom my father would have described as one who - sees past “what is” and locks his gaze on “what ought” to be. That is not only vision, that is victorious living. Uncle Damon was that person who believed in “what ought” and stayed the course of justice despite the difficulty of the journey.

This image is the groundbreaking of Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church. In the photo from left to right: Rev. Johnnie Green, Judge Terrence Keith, In wheelchair, Rev. Dr. Frederick Sampson, II, Pastor and Rev. Dr. Frederick Sampson, III with Gilda.

That is a moment I have never forgotten.

During these moments I am reminded that the journey so many of us have experienced has been paved by the courageousness, fortitude and commitment of men like Judge Keith and my father. They had a spiritual anchor that allowed them to cultivate and cut activist teeth on the harshness of Jim Crow, segregation and blatant racism of the 20th century American narrative. They stepped onto unpaved roads and cleared a path for others to walk.

Judge Keith was one of those extraordinary men, and yes, he was a great friend with another one of those men, my father the Rev. Dr. Frederick Sampson, II. It was my witness of their friendship through the years that I grew to know the impact of a complex meaningful bond of brotherhood which was connected by church, fraternity, and community.

In 1971, my father became pastor of Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church. Upon our arrival here in Detroit, we met Judge Keith who was a deacon at “Tab”. Their friendship along with their wives, Dr. Rachel Keith & my mother, Earlene lasted for the rest of their lives. Dr. Keith was our family physician and for more than 30 years,

Judge Keith, Rev. Dr. Frederick Sampson, & Rev. Dr. Joseph Lowery they all served the church and the people of God, with purpose, promise and prayer.

One of my earliest memories as a little girl in a new and big city was the Keith family welcom-

ing us with open arms. I was young, and yet I recall the ease of dad and Uncle Damon’s friendship in moments during a barbeque in the Keith’s back yard where I roasted my very first marshmallow

Mother's Day

Thank you, Judge Keith, for being a crusader for justice.

Freda G. Sampson, daughter of Frederick G. Sampson, II and President of the Frederick G. Sampson Foundation

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Mother Mozelle Williams (center) celebrated her 105th birthday with her son, Eugene Williams and his wife.

Russell Street Missionary Baptist Church member turns 105

By Branden Hunter Russell Street Missionary Baptist Church was founded in 1916 to serve the African American in Detroit. The congregation celebrated the 105th birthday of its oldest member, Mother Mozelle Williams (Saxon), who was born May 2, 1914.

Mother Williams was joined by dozens of family members, friends, and her church family in the basement of the church to celebrate her historic milestone. The church began in a deacon’s home in the predominately African American North End neighborhood in Detroit and moved to a storefront on Alger before it landed in 1954 at its location on Russell Street south of Holbrook.

Mother Williams has been a member for 78 years.

“Mother Mozelle Williams has been a faithful member of Russell Street and to celebrate her 105th birthday with her is an honor,” said Rev. Dee Dee Coleman, Pastor of Russell Street and President of The Council of Baptist Pastors of Detroit and Vicinity. “Moses was a 120-yearsold when he died, yet his eyes were not weak, nor his strength gone. God has smiled on Mother Williams, as he did Moses.”

Seated next to her son and daughterin-law, pearls wrapped around her neck, Mother Williams reminisced on her time spent over the last 105 years. She is not able to move like she used to, but she is still witty and kept the room laughing. She credits God as the key to her longevity.

“The God in heaven created me and

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made it to where I was able to live this long,” said Mother Williams, who is strong in her faith. “I don’t know why he picked me, but I thank him for blessing me all these years.”

Mother Williams was born and raised in Rome, Georgia, where she attended Rome High School. She married Homer Williams and together they moved to Detroit in 1941. Shortly after moving to Detroit, she joined Russell Street Missionary Baptist Church, where she has been a member ever since. One of the church members said she charged them $6 to do their hair.

The church is the oldest in the neighborhood and Mother Williams has lived in the North End ever since her arrival to Detroit. It was one of the few Detroit neighborhoods blacks were allowed to live in during those times.

“The times were different in Detroit when I came here in 1941,” said Mother Williams, who lived with her uncle in Detroit. “We have a little more privilege now.”

From 1957-1990, Mother Williams was the owner of Mozelle’s Beauty Salon, and was the stylist for many of the Russell Street Missionary Baptist Church members. She loves her church and is known for sitting on the second row at the church and enjoys Rev. Coleman’s preaching.

“My mother is my everything and at 62, I am glad to still have her on this earth,” said Eugene Williams, Mother Williams’ son. “She’s still in her right mind and God willing, we will be back here in church next year to celebrate her 106th birthday.”

30713071 WEST GRAND DETROIT, 48202 WEST GRANDBLVD. BLVD. DETROIT, MI MI 48202 3071 WEST GRAND BLVD. DETROIT, MI 48202

Page B-8

• michiganchronicle.com •

May 8-14, 2019

Scenes From The Barrister’s Ball 2019

City. Life. Style.

C1 | May 8-14, 2019

Where City Meets Life and Life Meets Style

michiganchronicle.com

illennial

MOMS Gwen Jimmere CEO & Founder of Naturalicious

“Grinding hard everyday to eliminate the time, frustration and expense women have with their hair via our award-winning hair and skin care products”

M

By AJ William – City.Life.Style. Editor

illennials are making money moves in business, social activism and pop culture, but something that we may over look are how this generations women are ROCKING IT at Beauty, Brains, Business and MOTHERHOOD!! Here are few of the Maven Moms in the D!

Best Mom Advice: My mom taught (and still teaches me) so much, but one of my favorites is “Everything starts at home”. The things you allow your kids to do at home, they will do outside the home -- that goes for good and not-sogood actions. Nip problems in the bud at home and you have to worry less about them acting out in public.

Favorite Mom Moment: My son, Caiden, thinks I’m famous. LOL He went to school and during technology time, he told all his friends to “Google my mom” and then instructed them to make a digital collage out of the photos they found of me. It was a proud and hilarious moment for me. I started my company when he was 2, as a single mom with $32 in the bank. Now we’re in thousands of stores and sold all over the world. My drive has always stemmed from wanting to make him proud; and to know that no matter what circumstances life gives us, if we work hard and stay prayed up and all we will do is win. It made me really happy to know that I’m making my son super proud, but also to see the manifestation of me teaching him resilience and tenacity through a great example Pick your Mom Type (Clair Huxtable, Beyonce or Cardi B): Clair Huxtable, Beyonce or Cardi B - Definitely Bey with a splash of Claire.

Danielle Reeves of Madison Avenue Photography

Erin Perry

Maxwell won when he hit the splits on my husband and me. What happened to “honor thy father and thy mother?” He didn’t have to do us like that.

Freelance editor and full-time Ph.D. student “In addition to editing fiction and non-fiction works, I am studying the effects of new media on the journalism profession. “ Best Mom Advice: Practice self-regard so that you can practice selflessness. You have to take care of yourself before you can take care of anyone else.

Favorite Mom Moment: Before my son went to bed one night, we had a dance-off to the clean version of “Best Life” by Cardi B and Chance the Rapper.

Kimberly Dobine

Owner of Posh and Popular LLC, and the Founder of the Fashion and Beauty Summit and the P.O.S.H and Popular Foundation “Blogger turned Event Producer who is passionate about empowering women within the fashion and beauty industry with stylishly curated events and content. “ Best Mom Advice: Be unapologetic about how you choose to care for your child and do what you want for your child. Don’t let anyone make you feel insecure about the choices you’re making for the betterment of your family. Be over the top with your love for your child. I believe showing your child how important they are to you is just as important as showing your spouse how much they mean to you. Be intentional about the time you spend with them, because you can never get it back. Make the most of each moment and do what your heart tells you to do!

Favorite Mom Moment: There are so many favorites for me. I love the hundreds of hugs and kisses I get from my baby girl, but if I had to choose an absolute favorite moment, it would be planning and designing her first birthday party! Seeing the joy on her face was priceless. She is only one, but she knew that day was all about her. It just melts my heart any time I am able to do something special for her.

Pick your Mom Type (Clair Huxtable, Beyonce or Cardi B): Clair Huxtable, Beyonce or ­Cardi B : Clair Huxtable with a hint of Cardi B

Pick your Mom Type (Clair Huxtable, Beyonce or Cardi B): Mix ‘em together, and you get me. I love rants that teach memorable lessons depicting the consequences of not treating people right. Think: “You ain’t never gonna have anybody bringing you anything anywhere anyplace anytime eva!” I will continue to teach my son to stay gracious and remember that the best revenge is his paper. And finally, being his mother is a major part of why I am truly living my best life.

LaShandra Harris

Founder/Owner of Light Heart Designs and co-owner of CJ Heart Studios, LLC “I am a creator of beautiful paper flowers and paper crafts, and I also assist with the paper art backdrops and other craft decor used with photography services at our studio.”

Best Mom Advice: Take the time to be present with your children and active in their lives. Create memories with your children, expose them to the world with travel.

Read books and enjoy conversations with your children.

Never turn down those kisses and hugs, and always remain a positive and encouraging role model in your children’s lives.

Favorite Mom Moment: It is too many to list! But I will say that when my daughter says “You’re the best Mommy ever” or “I’m thankful for everything you do for me - I’m glad that you’re my Mom”... my heart smiles every time she says it.

Pick Your Mom Type (Clair Huxtable, Beyonce or Cardi B): In my eyes, being a “Millennial Mom” is definitely a mix of Beyoncé with Cardi B - and this is the perfect blend for me! Beyoncé brings the fierce, entrepreneur business woman - working hard building an empire with her husband; while Cardi B is the fun, outspoken and straight to the point kind of woman. Both show relentless love for their children while working hard within their careers.

Page C-2 • michiganchronicle.com • May 8-14, 2019

Kelley L. Suggs

Marketing Director -Christian Tabernacle Church Owner-Suggsinct Communications Chief Communications Officer-The Social MVP “I handle all things Communications, Media, Public Relations, and Marketing related.”

Best Mom Advice: Maintaining the balance between faith, family, friends, and fun is key. Though I work fulltime and have 2 business, mom guilt is real, but I realize “me time” in never overrated. I need time with my husband and son, time with my friends, time traveling, and time with books (where I often find my escape from reality). As moms, we’re not always told we’re doing a good job, nor do we always know. But, the reward is seeing your child happy, smiling, in good spirits, excelling, and giving you hugs and kisses! There’s no scale to rank how well you’re “mom-ing.” Just follow the small, still voice God put inside you to guide your actions as a mom.

Favorite mom moment: I enjoy story time before bed when it’s just me and my mini. Story time is quite hilarious, as my son has remixes to many of his favorite books.

We say prayers together, he hugs me tight, and we give goodnight kisses. The kid says the sweetest, “I love you” that melts my heart. He and my husband even have a special/secret handshake they do before “lights out,” too. I wholeheartedly enjoy the bond my husband and son have. It’s amazingly joyful to watch.

Pick your Mom Type (Clair Huxtable, Beyonce or Cardi B): I had to ask my husband this question. I’m Clair Huxtable because (in the words of my husband) I’m conservative, lovable, witty, understanding, reasonable, nurturing, elegant, and beautiful. See why I married him? :-)

Kieara Johnson

Co-Founder of Charge Bot, LLC

Smart vending machine company that dispense unique cell phone chargers.

Best Mom Advice: Trying to balance work/business and parenthood can be difficult. As you move along, remember when the days blur together and your routine is off schedule, make the choice to see those days and moments as small pieces to a beautiful bigger picture.

Favorite Mom Moment: As a mother of two beautiful daughters, 14 and 1 years old, my favorite mom moments are the same. Waking up in the middle of the night while everyone is sleeping, looking them in the eyes, singing, praying, while telling them how much I loved them.

Pick your Mom Type (Clair Huxtable, Beyonce or Cardi B): Clair Huxtable, Beyonce or Cardi B - I am definitely as Clair Huxtable mom, mixed with a little Cardi B.

Tatiana Grant

DIGITAL DAILY

Co-Founder, 2050 Partners, Inc.; President, Flash Delivery and Renaissance Mom Co.

www.michiganchronicle.com

“Serial entrepreneur who owns and manages an integrated marketing agency that is focused on PR, community engagement, and events; Flash Delivery, Detroit’s first food delivery service; and Renaissance Mom, a lifestyle brand that celebrates Motherhood.”

At your fingertips

Best Mom Advice: You can do it! “It” can be anything. I am learning and living this currently, and feel that Motherhood levels you up to be able to do “anything”.

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Follow Us On @michronicle

Favorite Mom Moment: Holding, cuddling, and singing “Good Morning” and “This is the day, the Lord has made” songs to my daughter EVERY morning. That’s our very special time.

Pick your Mom Type (Clair Huxtable, Beyonce or Cardi B): Cardi B

City. Life. Style.

Brandi Taylor Makeup Artist

Best Mom Advice: Trust your gut. Do what works for you and don’t compare yourself to other moms.

Favorite Mom Moment: My daughter did her first solo when she was 6 years old. Her performance brought me to tears. She told me she wanted to sing and I never questioned it. I worked with her on the song and she exceeded my expectations. She wants to sing and perform on broadway. I am proud to be her mom and I love to see her using her gifts and talents.

Pick your Mom Type (Clair Huxtable, Beyonce or Cardi B):Clair Huxtable, Beyonce or Cardi B - I would have to say Beyonce. I go hard on my craft but family first.

Where City Meets

LIFE STYLE and Life Meets

In Print and Online

michiganchronicle.com

C3

Game.

| May 8-14, 2019

michiganchronicle.com

Tony Harrison vs. Jermell Charlo

Rematch Is On!

By Branden Hunter

T

he rematch between Detroiter Tony Harrison and Jermell Charlo has been officially announced.

The two rivals are set to fight for the WBC junior middleweight title once more. This time, it will headline a PBC on Fox broadcast from the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas on June 23.

The fight is a rematch of their first bout from December 2018 in Brooklyn, New York, which also was televised on Fox.

In that first bout, Harrison scored an upset victory over Charlo by a very narrow margin on the scorecards, winning with scores of 115-113, 115-113 and 116-112. The two fighters immediately called for a rematch, especially Charlo, who had aspirations of unifying the WBC title with Jarrett Hurd’s WBA

and IBF titles. With the loss to Harrison, both Charlo and Hurd chose other paths before they can think about making the three-belt unification a reality.

Harrison is in the midst of his first world title reign in the pro ranks. After losing to Hurd in 2017 for the then-vacant IBF title, Harrison worked his way back up to title contention with three straight wins leading up to his win over Charlo. Entering their matchup last De-

cember, Charlo was making his fourth world title defense.

Harrison, 28, became the first fighter from Detroit to win a world title in the weight division since fellow Kronk Gym fighter Thomas “Hitman” Hearns held the belt in the 1980s. He hails from the city’s west side and Mumford High School and has his SuperBad Boxing Gym at 8701 Puritan Avenue.

Pistons team up with Wayne State University, announce $25M basketball arena

By Branden Hunter The Detroit Pistons announced plans to bring the NBA G-League to Detroit.

A specific timeline for the G-League to arrive in Detroit has not been determined. Discussions with NBA G-League officials regarding an expansion franchise and the Pistons current G-League affiliate, the Grand Rapids Drive, are ongoing. The Pistons and Drive recently extended their hybrid operating agreement through the 2020-21 G-League season.

“We continue to invest in the success of our franchise and the success of our community,” said Pistons Owner Tom Gores.

“Bringing a G-League team to Detroit delivers on both fronts.

It will give our players and coaches the best tools available to maximize performance, and it will add more fuel to the revitalization underway in Midtown and throughout Detroit.”

The G-League serves as the NBA’s developmental league preparing players, coaches, officials, trainers and front- office staff for NBA positions while acting as the league’s research and development laboratory.

The league is growing in popularity, attracting a wide range of basketball fans by offering professional basketball in a fun, family-friendly environment.

Detroit Pistons Vice Chairman Arn Tellem said a longterm lease agreement with Wayne State will bring approximately 20-plus G League games to the school’s new arena each season. The Pistons will also work with Wayne State officials to host Pistons summer camps and clinics, possible MHSAA state high school games, AAU

“

games and other basketball tournaments in the new facility.

in and around the business of sports.”

“We are proud to support Wayne State’s vision for its new arena and help the school maximize the facility’s impact,” said Tellem. “This partnership will not only help generate revenue for the school, it will provide unique educational opportunities for students. Our goal is to create an incubator for young people to explore a diverse range of career possibilities

The Pistons will work with Wayne State administrators to create academic programs and internship opportunities in fields like sports marketing, community relations, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and sports and entertainment business operations.

As part of a multi-faceted partnership with Wayne State University, the Pistons’

G-League affiliate will play in a new arena the school is planning to build for its men’s and women’s basketball programs less than two miles from both Little Caesars Arena and the new Henry Ford Detroit Pistons Performance Center. Wayne State’s Board of Governors approved the new facility today.

Ed Stefanski, Senior Advisor to Tom Gores, said the samecity location will be great for players and promote increased continuity and collaboration

between each organization’s front office, coaching and training staffs.

“The G-League can be a very powerful tool for player development and having your affiliate nearby and accessible is the best way to maximize the impact,” said Stefanski. “Young roster players, rookies and players on two-way contracts can shift back and forth efficiently, and rehab assignments for veteran players are easier to manage.”

This partnership will not only help generate revenue for the school, it will provide unique educational opportunities for students. Our goal is to create an incubator for young people to explore a diverse range of career possibilities in and around the business of sports.”

Page C-4 • michiganchronicle.com • May 8-14, 2019

The Michigan Chronicle Men of Excellence Awards celebrate local African American men who inspire others through their vision and leadership, exceptional achievement and participation in community service.

They are men who exemplify extraordinary strength and commitment to their profession and to the community. These men do it all while filling the roles of leader, father, teacher and professional.

The selected honorees will join an exclusive society of 550 professional men who have previously received this distinction.

1. The nominee must be a man (at least 21 years of age) who resides in Southeast Michigan (the city of Detroit and contiguous communities within fifty (50) miles radius of the city center).

2. The nominee must be active in his career or profession. Career or profession is defined as paid employment in his field. Nominees must agree to have their photograph and biographical information published in The Michigan Chronicle.

All nominees selected as a Michigan Chronicle Men of Excellence will be featured in a 2019 edition of the Michigan Chronicle.

3. Evaluations will be based on the quality of a nominee’s achievements, rather than the quantity of information submitted.

4. Selections will be made by the Michigan Chronicle Men of Excellence Selection Committee based on following criteria: • Local African American Male Business executive or entrepreneur.

• Proven success in career/profession • Positive role model • Demonstrative community service

2019 NOMINATION FORM Nominee Information Name of Nominee

Age

Title/Positions Company/Affiliation Years in Industry Address City/State/Zip Day Phone Evening Phone E-mail

Criteria Proven success within his profession/industry Positive role model whose contributions encourage others Active in community service or organizational involvement Local African American male executive or business owner

Questioned to be Completed Describe specific accomplishments that demonstrate nominee’s excellence

Describe nominee’s community service activity/organizational involvement

How has the nominee mentored others?

Nominator’s Contact Information Name Title Firm/Organization Address City/State/Zip Day Phone Evening Phone E-mail

Visit michiganchronicle.com to submit nominations Nomination Deadline • Friday, May 10, 2019 • 5:00 PM

Classified

May 8-14, 2019

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

EDUCATION

Learn to Tutor at Dominican Literacy Center Saturday May 11, 2019 8:00 am – 4:00 pm 5555 Conner, Detroit, MI

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

This workshop will teach you to work with an adult who needs help with Reading, Math or ESL.

HELP WANTED

United States District Court, Eastern District of Michigan – Human Resources Vacancy Announcement at http://www.mied.uscourts.gov. EOE This position is located in Detroit, MI. HR Specialists are responsible for providing the full range HR services to the Clerk’s Office, Judges, Chambers staff, the Probation Department and the Pretrial Services Agency, with varying needs, priorities and cultures.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Board of Education of Detroit Public Schools Community District will hold a public hearing on its proposed budget for Detroit Public Schools Community District for the 2019-2020 school year at Renaissance High School, 6565 W. Outer Drive, Detroit, MI 48235 beginning at 5:00 pm on Tuesday, May 14, 2019. Copies of the proposed budget will be available for public inspection at the Office of Management and Budget located in the Fisher building, 11th Floor, 3011 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit, MI 48202 from 8:00 am until 5:00 pm and the District’s website on Monday, May 6, 2019 through Tuesday, May 14 2019. www.detroitk12.org/finance

City of Highland Park NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The City of Highland Park will hold a public hearing on proposed sewer distribution improvement projects for the purpose of receiving comments from interested persons.

A public hearing will be held at the regularly scheduled Highland Park City Council meeting at 7:00 pm on May 20, 2019, at Highland Park City Hall, 12050 Woodward Avenue, Highland Park, MI 48203. A second public hearing will be held at the regularly scheduled Highland Park City Council meeting at 7:00pm on June 3, 2019, at Highland Park City Hall, 12050 Woodward Avenue, Highland Park, MI 48203.

Department: POLICE DEPARTMENT Location: Ferndale Police Department Salary Range: Officers at Academy, $45,000 Officers in Field Training, $49,000 Patrol, $51,127.15 - $68-869.00 FLSA: Non-exempt/Union Employment Type: Full-time The City of Ferndale is currently looking for the best of the best. We are not looking for just anyone, we are looking for the right one. If you believe that is you, we are now accepting applications for the position of POLICE OFFICER. Interested parties will first need to complete the EMPCO test and profile. For testing dates, please visit the following website www.empco.net/testing.

Candidates must have two years of college credit (60 credits), or four years of active military duty with an honorable discharge, or an acceptable combination; must be in excellent health and free from criminal background. Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, FSA, and Retirement Plans are available. For a full list of qualifications and to apply, go to https://www.ferndalemi.gov/jobs.

The purpose of the proposed project is to upgrade aging sewer main, manhole structures, and catch basins, in addition to improving reliability and redundancy of the system.

Project construction will involve replacement of sewer, manhole structures, and catch basins in areas of the city based on the condition of the components and the number of residents within that area.

The estimated cost for the proposed project is estimated to be $5,000,000. The financing of the project is funded from a loan from the State Revolving Fund (SRF), which is to be paid for by sewer user fees.

Copies of the documents detailing the proposed project are available for inspection starting Thursday, April 18, 2019 at the following locations: Robert B. Blackwell Municipal Building 12050 Woodward Avenue Highland Park, MI 48203 Highland Park Water Department and City Engineering Department Customer Service Center 14110 Woodward Avenue Highland Park, MI 48203 Written comments received before the public comment period is closed on June 3, 2019, will be included in the final project plan.

Written comments should be sent to: City of Highland Park Water Department and City Engineering Department Customer Service Center Mr. Damon L. Garrett, PE Water Department Director 14110 Woodward Avenue Highland Park, MI 48203

PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Human Resources Vacancy

Call 313.267.1000 to RSVP or go to dlcliteracy.org to register on-line.

DETROIT PUBLIC SCHOOLS COMMUNITY DISTRICT BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED BUDGET FOR THE 2019-2020 FISCAL YEAR (MANDATED BY MCL 141.434)

Sr. Treasury Analyst

Seeking

ASSISTANT WOMEN’S BASKETBALL COACH AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Athletics Administration

Assist in administering an educationally sound competitive women’s basketball program, within the rules and policies of our conference and NCAA legislated guidelines.

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree required. Minimum of three years NCAA collegiate coaching experience, preferably at the Division I level. Experience with NCAA Division I rules and regulations. This is a full time, individual contract position, which includes evenings and weekends.

Salary commensurate with experience.

See online posting for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by May 15, 2019.

Must apply online to: https://jobs.oakland.edu

Seeking

ACCOUNTING CLERK III AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Accounts Payable

Perform clerical accounting duties in a large and/or complex administrative unit.

Minimum Qualifications: High school graduation or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Three years clerical accounting/bookkeeping experience. Ability to operate standard office equipment. Type minimum 30 wpm.

Ability to effectively interact with the public, students, faculty, and staff. Salary is $40,487.00 annually. First consideration will be given to those who apply by May 16, 2019. See online posting for additional position requirements.

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

Meritor, Inc. seeks a Sr. Treasury Analyst in Troy, MI, responsible for assisting in the additional modules system implementation of the Treasury Workstation – Kyriba: Bank Account Management, Bank Fees Analysis including the transmission of EDI 822 files in Kyriba, transmission of BAI bank reports from various banks for the liquidity reporting; among other duties. Master’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, or Accounting and two years of experience in the job offered or related.

Please send resumes to: Ms. Sarah Trautmann, Meritor, Resume Processing/JO#9713110, 2135 West Maple Road, Troy, MI 48084.

NVH Development Engineer BorgWarner PDS (USA) Inc. seeks a NVH Development Engineer in Auburn Hills, MI, to support noise and vibration product development activities; coordinate project planning and communication with program team, among other duties. Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and three years of experience in job offered or related. Please send resumes to: Catherine Wood, Resume Processing/JO#9731776, BorgWarner, 3800 Automation Ave, Auburn Hills, MI 48326.

Over The Air (OTA) Reflash Subsystem Test Engineer Warren, MI, General Motors. Dvlp, create, &monitor test plans &validate Center Stack Module &OnStar telematics modules, to identify, track &assign fixes for malfunctions, crashes, &poor performance, for 2020 &beyond MY psgr vehicle infotainment &telematics syss features incldg OTA software, Bluetooth connectivity, phone projection, &OnStar telematics connectivity, &improve HMI, in Android OS, using VehicleSpy, ATT, &RAD-moon tools, &neoVI FIRE &Vector tools H/W, in vehicle &on test bench. Collect data &create, anlayze &validate test reports/results &identify critical issues in vehicle &in subsystems environments. Perform sys level verification tests incldg smoke/sanity/functional/interaction tests, &must tests lists. Create &execute test cases to adhere to internal GM &external industry &regulatory specs. Capture issues in defect tracking system, incldg logs, recreation steps, video, &supporting documentation. Bachelor, Electrical or Computer Engrg. 12 mos exp as Engineer, creating &executing test plans or software, analyze test results, &validating &improving psgr vehicle modules or automotive specific integrated circuits used in psgr vehicle ECUs, or related. Mail resume to Ref#49, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

Seeking

Department: FIRE DEPARTMENT Location: Ferndale Fire House Salary Range: Patrol, $47,550 - $64,568 +6.5% FLSA: Non-exempt/Union Employment Type: Full-time The City of Ferndale is seeking FIREFIGHTERS—aka superheroes, lifesavers, educators, and general doers of awesome things! Firefighters serve and protect the community. Our firefighters are first responders, combating and extinguishing fires; performing rescues, hazmat responses, and life support functions; and engaging in other specialized duties under emergency conditions, frequently involving personal hazard and/or severe weather conditions.

Must have completed the written firefighter test with EMPCO and have a valid CPAT. Preference will be given to those applicants with a paramedic license, valid in the state of Michigan.

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, FSA, and Retirement Plans are available. For a full list of qualifications and to apply, go to https://www.ferndalemi.gov/jobs.

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Request for Proposal

The Detroit-Wayne Joint Building Authority owner/operator of the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center (CAYMC) is seeking proposals from qualified firms to provide Elevator Maintenance & Modernization at the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center.

The CAYMC is a 745,000 square foot office building located in the heart of downtown Detroit.

A mandatory pre-bid meeting and site walkthrough will be held on Wednesday, May 15, 2019 at 2:30 PM. The meeting will be held the Erma Henderson Auditorium located on the 13th Floor of the CAYMC. Interested firms may request a copy of the RFP by e-mailing Mike.kennedy@hines.com Four (4) sealed bid proposals will be due no later than 12:00 p.m. Friday, June 14, 2019 Public Bid opening to follow Bid should be addressed: Elevator Maintenance & Modernization Bid Detroit -Wayne Joint Building Authority Coleman A. Young Municipal Center 2 Woodward Avenue, Suite 1316 Detroit, MI. 48226 Attention: Michael Kennedy

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OFFICE ASSISTANT III AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Office of the Registrar

Provide specialized office assistance, coordinating procedural business or service activities for a complex program.

Minimum Qualifications: High school graduation or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Four years progressively responsible office experience, including direct experience in office coordination, prioritizing work assignments and maintaining work flow to meet deadlines. This is a full time, clericaltechnical position. Salary is $42,861.00 annually. First consideration will be given to those who apply by May 16, 2019. See online posting for additional position requirements.

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

PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED

Telematics Validation Engineer Warren, MI, General Motors. Engr &execute in vehicle &on test bench testing, &conduct module &feature level validation of Electronic Control Unit embedded S/W in infotainment &telematics sys, using VehicleSpy, Automatic Test Tool (ATT), OnStar Call Center Simulator (GlobalSim), Vehicle Control Scanner, DPS, Qualcomm eXtensible Diagnostic Monitor (QxDM), Global OnStar Automation Test System (GlobalOATS), Vector CANalyzer, CANoe, vTest Studios tools, &neoVI FIRE hardware, working closely with developers to generate improved customer experience. Dvlp &execute test procedures using CAN bus, LIN bus &Ethernet logs to validate telematics &infotainment features &syss level reqmts &functionalities &execute validation plans for subsystem at test bench &vehicle levels.

Validate high &mid level Center Stack Module &low radios against GM approved specification documents. Bachelor, Electrical or Mechanical Engrg. 12 mos exp as Engineer, engrg or executing in vehicle &on test bench testing &conducting module &feature level validation of ECU embedded S/W in infotainment &telematics sys, using VehicleSpy, ATT, QXDM, Vector CANalyzer &CANoe tools, &neoVI FIRE H/W. Mail resume to Ref#33221-112, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

Senior Software Engineer Warren, MI, General Motors. Design, dvlp &debug real-time embedded system incldg psgr vehicle Center Stack Module, IP Cluster, Headup Display, Multi-Function Controller, seating systems, &related in-vehicle infotainment systems to install new H/W devices to control vehicle infotainment syss, using Java, C/C++ languages &multi-thread programming in Linux &Android OS, in Android framework, &using Android Studio, Git, Gerrit, Jira, Jenkins, &IBM RTC tools. Analyze &dvlp innovative HMI framework features based on new infotainment sys reqmts. Use Agile S/W dvlpmt methods to control project schedule &qlty of the deliverables. Responsible for lifecycle of assigned domain, incldg reqmts definition, system design, dvlpmt, review, testing, deployment, &maintenance of infotainment S/W embedded in vehicle components. Analyze, root cause &provide “bug fixes”/suggestions for HMI framework subsystem, applying knowledge of Android framework sys debugging &analyzing, using Linux, C/C++, &Java programming. Bachelor, Computer Science, Computer Engrg, Computer Science &Engrg, or related. 60 mos exp as Engineer, designing &debugging embedded system incldg psgr vehicle or mobile phone or tablet, using Java, C/C++ languages, in Android framework, &using Git, Gerrit, Jira, &Jenkins tools, or related. Mail resume to Ref#5335, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

Infotainment Validation Engineer Warren, MI, General Motors. Engr, test &validate psgr vehicle embedded ECU Center Stack Modules infotainment sys incldg Bluetooth connectivity, Speech Recognition features, &Apple CarPlay, Android Auto apps, using CAN, LIN &Ethernet protocols, using Vector CANoe &CANalyzer tools. Use Bluetooth sniffer along w/ ComProbe Protocol Analysis System to analyze lower layer Bluetooth stack communication between master &salve device. Identify root cause &solutions to problems encountered in preproduction S/W releases. Document issues in Problem Resolution &Tracking System &ensure fixes are implemented before vehicle milestones. Dvlp automation test scripts based on Android system using Android Debug Bridge. Improve speech recognition &Bluetooth tests procedures, evaluate uttered sentences confidence levels based on live Speech Nuance logging. Investigate faulty ECU, analyze communication between several ECUs over Ethernet through Remote Module HMI &CANoe panels. Master, Electrical or Computer Engrg. 12 mos exp as Engineer, engrg &validating psgr vehicle embedded ECU in Center Stack Module, Body Control Module, or related module, using CAN &LIN, using Vector CANoe &CANalyzer tools. Mail resume to Ref#2955, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

www.MichiganChronicle.com

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Continuous Improvement Manager Warren, MI, General Motors. Evaluate &identify critical psgr vehicle propulsions systems, paint, body &infotainment components warranty issues as reported in Global Warranty Mgmt sys &internal/external qlty surveys &establish warranty targets. Supervise &lead a team of 3 Customer Qlty Engrs, &ensure that correct parties are engaged to improve psgr vehicle component qlty of GM in NA &for export markets. Lead &support field action activities within Qlty Org incldg cross-functional liaison with Aftersales, Engrg, Assy Plants, Logistics &Program Teams, to establish scope of potential field actions, &ensuring correct level of info is available incldg anlys of NHTSA &CARB reqmts. Compile field action submissions for decision review. Attend field action review meetings. Act as voting member on Safety &Compliance Categorization reviews. Provide leadership support for forums incldg Deep Dive meeting, Pre-CPIT, Current Product Improvement Team Meeting (CPIT) &Super CPIT meeting. 60 mos exp as Product Qlty Mgr, Regional Qlty Mgr, Regional Qlty Director, or related, leading or supporting field action activities within the Qlty Organization incldg cross-functional liaison with Aftersales, Engrg, Assy Plants, Logistics &Program Teams, to establish scope of potential field actions, &ensuring correct level of information is available incldg anlys of NHTSA reqmts. Mail resume to Ref#1285, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

Design Program Manager Warren, MI, General Motors. Lead a team of 2 Asst Program Mgrs enabling execution of Color &Trim (C&T), non-vehicle product design, exhibit design, corporate ID, visualizations &animations, &vehicle deliverables w/ qlty interacting w/ global cross-functional teams (Product &Mfg Engrg, Marketing, Planning, Finance, Program Mgmt, Purchasing, Qlty, Design &Mfg) in support of Global Vehicle Development Process. Dvlp &lead execution plans to deliver original innovative &fresh designs conforming to vehicle program reqmts &psgr vehicle brand vision incldg automotive interior &exteriors. Plan, manage, guide, &execute product architecture, C&T product design, &vehicle design dvlpmt targeting local &global markets, assuring global &emerging market inputs taking into account product validation under regulatory entities such as U.S. FMVSS &China Guobiao standards. Assess status, monitor &report on Design Center deliverables to Executive Leadership, Chief Engr, &Program Execution Team. Manage Design Studio Workload, resources &space. Bachelor, Mechanical Engrg, Industrial Engrg, Transportation Design, or Industrial Design. 24 mos exp as Automotive Program Manager, Design Program Manager, Product Portfolio Manager, or related, planning &guiding product architecture &vehicle design dvlpmt targeting local &global markets, assuring global &emerging market inputs taking into account product validation under U.S. FMVSS, or related. Mail resume to Ref#1230, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

Classified PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED Design Analysis Supervisor

Material Development Expert Vibracoustic USA, Inc. seeks a Material Development Expert in South Haven, MI to manage actions and projects in line with the Innovation Plan / Road Map, among other duties. Min. bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, polymer science and engineering, or related field of study and two years of experience in job offered or related. Please send resumes to: Ms. Laura Underwood, Vibracoustic USA, Inc., Resume Processing/JO#9735013, 400 Aylworth Avenue, South Haven, MI 49090.

Senior Software Test Engineer - Infotainment

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Senior Design Release Engineer – Bumper, Fascia &Grille (BFG) Warren, MI, General Motors. Engr, dvlp &release global psgr car, truck &SUV bumpers (incldg steel beams &crush cans), fascias, grilles, brackets &liners, using UGNX &Teamcenter tools. Design, analyze, dvlp &control component appearance, &performance criteria such as N&V, durability, fatigue &corrosion resistance. Initiate Architecture Framing Initiation to SORP. Define systems performance according to Component/SubSystem/Vehicle Technical Specifications &certification compliance w/ U.S., Europe, Asia, Middle East &Latin America regs. Create &maintain Advance Master Part List, BOMs &Complexity Trees for fascia, grille, bumper, &liner components, based on Product Program Content, Color &Trim Design Appearance Requirement. Assure component mfg according to cold &hot sheetmetal stamping, sheetmetal roll forming, injection molding, plating chrome sheetmetal &plastic, painting &welding, &optimize product manufacturability to design execution.

Bachelor, Mechanical, Automotive, Industrial, orChemical Engrg, or related. 24 mos exp as Engineer, engrg, dvlpg &releasing global psgr car &truck bumpers (incldg steel beams &crush cans), fascias, grilles, brackets &liners, using UGNX &Teamcenter tools. Mail resume to Ref#18537, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

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PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED

BorgWarner PDS (USA) Inc. seeks a Design Analysis Supervisor in Auburn Hills, MI, responsible for CAE-based design analysis through oversight of a team of CAE Engineers, to review and assign work requests to a team of engineers while providing technical guidance, among other duties. Master’s degree in mechanical engineering and five years of experience in job offered or related. Please send resumes to: Catherine Wood, Resume Processing/JO#9731924, BorgWarner, 3800 Automation Ave, Auburn Hills, MI 48326.

Warren, MI, General Motors. Dvlp &execute test plans for qlty control &improve UX on Central Stack Module. Identify, track &assign fixes for malfunction, crash &poor performance, focusing on psgr vehicle infotainment &telematics syss features from Android application, service &sys levels, incldg media playback, Bluetooth connectivity &navigation, sing Gerrit, RTC, VehicleSpy tools, Python program language, CIeNET Automated Testing System (C-ATS) language, Android debug bridge commands, PCAN &USB Relay H/W. Collect data &create &check test reports &identify critical issues.

Perform vehicle infotainment system level verification tests incldg KPI/sanity/functional/monkey (stability) tests &in vehicle tests. Compose automation test scripts by using Python program language, C-ATS language &Android debug bridge commands. Master, Electrical, Electronics or Computer Engrg, or related. 12 mos exp as Engineer, performing vehicle infotainment or mobile phone software system level verification tests including KPI/stability/sanity &functional tests. Mail resume to Ref#2378-202, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

May 8-14, 2019

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Warren, MI, General Motors. Design &dvlp realtime embedded C/C++ software incldg psgr vehicle Multi-Function Controller (MFC) feature to install new H/W devices in order to control vehicle infotainment systems, using Java, C/C++ languages in Linux &Android OS, in Android framework, &using Clear Case, Git, Gerrit, Jira, IBM RTC tools. Analyze &dvlp innovative HMI framework features based on new infotainment sys reqmts. Use Agile S/W dvlpmt methods to control project schedule &qlty of deliverables.

Responsible for lifecycle of assigned domain, incldg reqmts definition, system design, dvlpmt, review, testing, deployment, &maintenance of infotainment S/W embedded in vehicle components. Analyze, root cause &provide fixes/suggestions for HMI framework subsystem, applying knowledge of Android framework sys debugging &analyzing, Linux C/C++, &Java programming. Master, Computer Science, Computer Engrg, Software Engrg, or related. 12 mos exp as Engineer, dvlpg real-time embedded C/C++ software incldg psgr vehicle MFC feature or related, in Android framework, using Android, Linux, Java, C/C++ languages, or related. Mail resume to Ref#2346, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

Program Engineering Manager Warren, MI, General Motors. Represent engrg org in Program Execution Team (PET) in design program meetings, Program Quality Readiness Reviews &program gates approvals for mid-size trucks &SUV assembled in Brazil &Thailand.

Manage &lead design, dvlpmt &launch execution of current &future mid-size truck &SUV programs for vehicle assy plants in Brazil/Thailand &distributed in global &emerging markets. Engr, design, evaluate &improve vehicle chassis, powertrain, infotainment, exterior &interior systems for future trucks/SUVs for South America, Australia, Asia/Africa markets.

Supervise Assistant Program Engrg Mgr to support global mid-size truck &SUV programs (current production &lifecycle programs). Dvlp road maps for emerging markets. Assistant to Chief Engr incldg Chief Engr proxy for program activities. Maintain straight connection w/ regional execution teams in Thailand/Brazil by holding conference calls w/ regional Program Engrg Mgrs. Bachelor, Mechanical, Electrical, Production, or Automotive Engrg. 24 mos exp as Assistant Program Engineering Manager, Program Engineering Manager, or related, managing or leading design, dvlpmt &launch execution of current &future truck/SUV programs for vehicle assy plants &distributed in global &emerging markets. Mail resume to Ref#49476, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

What to Do if Your Car is Damaged by a Pothole (StatePoint) Spring is in the air. Birds are chirping, trees are budding and flowers are blooming.

But unfortunately, the warmer temperatures also mean potholes.

There are nearly 56 million potholes in the U.S., according to estimates from the Harpers Index Road Information Program -- that’s eight potholes per mile of paved road. We’ve all seen drivers dodging potholes, but often there’s no way to avoid them and cars pay the price. So, what should you do if a big pothole damages your car? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but below is some information to help you navigate the situation.

Does car insurance cover pothole damage? The good news -- yes, your auto insurance does cover pothole damage -- as long as you have collision coverage. Potholes typically damage not only tires and wheels, but also suspension systems, exhaust systems and even the body of the car, so repair costs can vary from a couple hundred dollars to more than a thousand.

“Pothole damage can put a big hole in your wallet,” says Jon Bloom, vice president, personal auto, Erie Insurance. “It’s not always clear whether you should file a claim and that’s where your agent comes in. They’ll help you decide the next steps.

For example, is the cost lower than the deductible?

Will filing a claim affect your premium? Your agent is your trusted source to weigh the pros and cons.”

Will the city or municipality pay to fix pothole damage? Many, but not all, cities and towns let you file a pothole claim if your car sustains damage from a pothole on a city roadway. The process varies, so check with your city’s road department to see if it accepts claims. Keep in mind there’s no guarantee you’ll receive payment for damages, and they can have a cap. Plus, getting reimbursed can be a lengthy process.

Regardless of how you recoup damages, always make sure to document everything. Take a photo of the pothole, note the date and time of the incident, and get estimates from at least two mechanics. And, there’s always the option of paying out of pocket if the costs are minimal.

Additionally, there are simple steps you can take to prevent major damage. The best advice is to stay alert to avoid hitting potholes in the first place. You should also keep your tires inflated to the proper air pressure. And, if you have to drive over a pothole, slow down, release the brakes and straighten the steering wheel.

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8 Tips to Make the Most of Your Next Doctor’s Visit (StatePoint) Visits to the doctor can be very productive with a little preparatory work in advance of the appointment, say experts.

“For some people, visits to the doctor can be daunting or even scary, but there are steps you can take beforehand that will improve the experience, foster communication, and, in turn, improve health outcomes,” says Barbara L. McAneny, M.D., president of the American Medical Association (AMA). “By being open and honest with your physician and by asking questions, you can play a key role in preventing the progression of chronic disease and in charting a healthier course.”

Here are eight ways to get more from your next doctor’s visit: 1. Know your history. A family health history can help your physician and other health care practitioners identify whether you’re at a higher risk for particular conditions and diseases. With this information, they can make informed care decisions, from recommending particular treatments or diagnostics to helping you plan lifestyle changes that will help keep you well. Before your next visit, gather as much information as you can to share with your doctor.

2. Be honest. Your doctor will likely ask you about such health habits as alcohol, tobacco, and drug use as well as the amount of exercise you get. It is important to be honest and accurate when answering these questions. Ask your doctor if you use tobacco, drugs or alcohol, and need help quitting.

3. Make a list. Even if you are just going in for a regular check-up, make a list of the things you want to discuss during your visit and bring it to your appointment. Topics may include symptoms you’ve experienced, ailments you’ve suffered and more.

4. Get screened. Ask your physician about needed health screenings based on your age, sex and other risk factors including family history. Healthfinder.gov is a good resource for finding recommended preventive services.

5. Learn your risk and take action. Talk with your doctor about your risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Before your appointment, you can take a free online self-screening test at DoIHavePrediabetes. org to learn whether you have prediabetes. During your visit, your doctor will need to confirm a prediabetes diagnosis and can help you develop an individualized plan to prevent it from progressing to type 2 diabetes.

6. Get immunized. Please discuss with your physician the importance of vaccination. Many immunizations require boosters after time has passed. Make sure you are up-to-date on your immunizations.

7. Get help. Tell your doctor if you haven’t been feeling like yourself and you think you might be suffering from depression.

8. Know your numbers. Track health data such as your height, weight, body mass index and blood pressure in order to share trends with your doctor and take action if needed. Visit LowerYourHBP. org to learn about your blood pressure numbers and the life-altering risks of uncontrolled high blood pressure -- also known as hypertension – and find a list of questions to ask your doctor to help get your blood pressure under control.

By being prepared with the right questions and information, you can make the most of your next doctor’s visit.