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Who will Duggan pick in county race?

WHAT’S INSIDE Retirement security (Page A-2) According to Thomas Kimble, AARP Michigan volunteer state president, “for too many Americans, the ‘golden years’ may not even be bronze.” He explains why.

April 2-8, 2014

michiganchronicle.com

Volume 77 – Number 30

By Bankole Thompson

of the Wayne County Democratic political machine who served as the top executive under former county boss Edward McNamara, can change the tide of the race if he were to come out and endorse a particular candidate.

CHRONICLE SENIOR EDITOR

Now that the first poll in the race for Wayne County Executive has shown that even the current declared candidates can’t make a significant break with voters, leaving half of them undecided, whoever DeBankole troit Mayor Mike Thompson Duggan supports will be a formidable contender in this race. Duggan, an offspring

Because no matter how his critics see his election, his historic ascendancy to the mayorship of Detroit, which being the anchor of Wayne County, makes Duggan the defacto Democratic leader in the county. What he says or does regarding the race for county executive will matter to voters outside of Detroit, including those who have long re-

mained skeptical about all things Detroit. They now see him as a bridge between Detroit and the rest of the county.

However, the question remains whether Duggan will in fact choose sides in the race given the number of issues he has to tackle in Detroit. With the pressing matters before a new mayor, it will only be politically prudent to focus on those issues rather than pounding the pavement for a candidate seeking to become the next county executive.

But when I asked Eric Foster,

See DUGGAN page A-4

Mike Duggan

Who is next Wayne County Executive?

The Bad Boys Unite reunion weekend took place March 27-28. The festivities started with a charity event at the Westin Book Cadillac Hotel in downtown Detroit, raising funds for a number of worthy organizations.

Full equality for women (Page B-4) State Rep. Rudy Hobbs refuses to accept his three daughters and other females being paid lower wages than men, having to purchase more health insurance, being denied leadership roles and having health decisions made by politicians.

Hot Sam’s still going strong (Page C-1) Stylish clothing, exemplary service and customer loyalty have made it possible for Hot Sam’s Quality Clothes to thrive for decade after decade.

Now owned by Tony Stovall and Cliff G. Green, the store has been located in the Compuware building since 2004.

Anita Baker: Remembrances and support (Page D-1) Since 1983 Anita Baker has been “giving us the best that she’s got” and we’ve been “caught up in the rapture.”

Although in recent weeks she has faced some difficulties, we are sure that “the songstress” to rise above it all.

$1.00

Poll shows race is wide open

Poll: Napoleon leads race for county executive

Pistons celebrated (Page B-1)

Sitting county boss Ficano can’t win

By Bankole Thompson CHRONICLE SENIOR EDITOR

Voters across gender, age, and race overwhelmingly give Bob Ficano a negative job performance rating.

By Donald James SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE

With the Detroit mayoral race now in the rearview mirror, political leaders and voters in the city, and throughout Wayne County, are gradually turning their attention to the Wayne County Executive’s race. While interest in the race has been lower than expected, some interesting findings from a recent poll may jump start conversations about the county’s top office.

In an independent poll conducted on behalf of the Michigan Chronicle, Lake Research Partners (LRP), a Washington, D.C.-based firm, surveyed 400 likely 2014 Democratic Primary voters in Wayne County about the executive’s race.

The results: Sheriff Benny Napoleon was the top Benny Napoleon choice. Napoleon, who has not decided if he will or will not run, garnered 20 percent support, followed by declared candidates Phil Cavanagh at 14 percent, Kevin McNamara at 8 percent, and Bill Wild at 5 perRobert Ficano cent. Undecided voters factored in at 49 percent. The remaining 4 percent are voters who prefer another candidate or who declined to answer.

The poll was conducted by telephone between March 12 and 14, 2014.

The data were weighted by age, gender, and region. According to LRP’s pollster, Jeff Klinger, who along with firm partner David Mermin conducted the poll, Napoleon’s top spot is surprising. “Even though Sheriff Napoleon

See NAPOLEON page A-4

In a match-up among Benny Napoleon and the three announced candidates, Napoleon leads the field with 20%, followed by Cavanagh at 14%. Nearly half of voters are undecided, leaving the race wide-open.

Napoleon has a strong lead among African American voters with 27%. Cavanagh leads Napoleon among white voters, though he lacks any intensity in his support (1% strongly support Cavanagh).

The race for Wayne County Executive is anybody’s pick despite an early showing that Wayne County Sheriff Benny Napoleon is the favorite for now if he decides to run for the top job in county.

The poll, commissioned by the Michigan Chronicle and conducted

by Lake Research Partners, a Washington, D.C. firm, shows Napoleon ahead of the three announced candidates but leaves a large number of Phil Cavanagh undecided voters.

In a matchup with candidates Phil Cavanagh, Kevin McNamara and Bill Wild, who have already declared they will be running, Napoleon leads with 20 percent of the 400 likely Democratic Primary voters sur- Kevin McNamara veyed in this poll.

Cavanagh follows with 14 percent, McNamara 8 percent and Wild at 5 percent.

But the 49 percent undecided voters in the poll shows that the field is wide open in what will be a Bill Wild highly contested race because according to the poll, 48 percent rate current Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano as doing a poor job and only 26 percent says he is doing just fair. His support is at 3 percent. The margin of error is -4.9 percent.

Cavanagh has less intensity among his supporters. He performs best among older women, women in union households, and both white and African American women.

Ficano’s administration has faced federal scrutiny with several aides cutting plea deals in a corruption investigation to avoid jail time and some already serving a sentence.

See RACE page A-4

Obama in town to raise stakes on minimum wage Editor’s note: President Obama will speak at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor on Wednesday, April 2 to underscore the importance of raising the minimum wage “Most people who would get a raise if we raise the minimum wage are not teenagers on their first job — their average age is 35. A majority of lower-wage jobs are held by women. These Americans are working full-time, often supporting families, and if the minimum wage had kept pace with our economy’s productivity, they’d already be earning well over $10 an hour today.

Instead, it’s stuck at $7.25.

Every time Congress refuses to raise it, it loses value because the cost of living goes higher, minimum wage stays the same.” — President Obama

Over the past 30 years, modest minimum wage increases have not kept pace with the rising costs of basic necessities for working families. No one who works full time should have to raise his or her family in poverty. President Obama supports raising the minimum wage to help build real, lasting economic security for the middle class and has made it a key part of his plan to create more opportunities for every hardworking American to get ahead in 2014.

The President knows this is important for workers and good for the economy. That is why the President has already signed an executive order to raise the minimum wage and tipped minimum wage for fed-

See MINIMUM

WAGE page A-4

Opening Day thrills With a capacity, wildly enthusiastic crowd cheering them on, and with surprisingly nice weather, the Detroit Tigers scored a 4-3 Opening Day victory over the Kansas City Royals. There were times when it seemed the game could go either way but the Tigers persevered, with Alex Gonzalez driving in the winning run. At bat here is Miguel Cabrera.

— Andre Smith photo

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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

April 2-8, 2014

Page A-2

Retirement security is a real issue facing many Michiganders

By Thomas Kimble

the bigger their rewards.

Social Security wasn’t meant to be a person’s sole source of retirement income.

AARP MICHIGAN VOLUNTEER STATE PRESIDENT

AARP Michigan represents 1.4 million members who are deeply affected by, and concerned with, retirement security – even though about half of them still work!

The number of Americans, and Michiganders, who are facing a tough financial situation in retirement is distressing.

Consider: In 2010, four out of 10 families headed by someone age 45 to 64 had no nest egg to supplement their Social Security benefits.

Social Security benefits are modest by any standard – averaging less than $16,000 a year for Michigan beneficiaries.

In many cases, it’s much less than that.

Meanwhile, these benefits are becoming even more important as employer-based retirement plans and retiree health benefits decline, retirement savings decline, and health care costs rise.

When we look at the families that actually have retirement savings accounts, half have less than $44,000. That’s just not enough - period.

And the Employee Benefit Research Institute estimates that almost half of Boomers and Gen

Keep and improve tax incentives for people of all income levels to save.

This is critical for people of low- and moderate incomes. But it is important for people of all income levels.

Thomas Kimble Xers will lack the income to meet basic retirement expenses and health care costs.

So, for too many Americans, the “golden years” of retirement may not even be bronze. And sadly, the possibility of running out of savings before they die is very real for millions.

But it simply doesn’t have to be that way.

Certainly, personal responsibility plays a critical role in retirement security. But we must put it within reach. And there are realistic, achievable solutions.

Nancy LeaMond, AARP Executive Vice President, offers five points. She says we need to: Do a much better job of helping people understand the importance of saving – and how much they’ll need in their later years. The earlier in life people start saving,

Strengthen Social Security for current and future generations. The future of Social Security is too important to be decided as part of a deficit-focused budget deal.

Shore up underfunded pension systems. We’re seeing the tragic consequences of pension shortfalls in Detroit, where 21,000 retirees are facing substantial pension reductions as part of the city’s bankruptcy resolution.

Greatly expand access for individuals to tax-deferred, payroll deduction, retirement savings plans in the workplace.

Research shows offering a person a way to save through their job dramatically increases their ability to save.

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AARP Michigan will host a series of Retirement Security forums in 2014, beginning this week in Detroit, to bring these retirement security issues to the forefront.

We’ll keep you updated on our progress.

The importance of education, and improving our roads

By Phil Power

people.

In his State of the State message in January, Gov. Snyder proposed increasing support for higher education by 6.1 per cent.

Many people, led by Business Leaders for Michigan, are saying it’s about time. But, politics has a way of getting in the way, especially in an election year.

Remember the oil filter ad from the 1970s, where the gruff, grease-stained car mechanic scowls at the camera and says, “You can pay me now, or you can pay me later?”

That’s exactly what we are facing in Michigan. Only it’s been that way for a decade when it comes to dealing with the stuff — the fancy word is “infrastructure” — that will define much of our future: The condition of our roads and the quality of our young people’s minds.

Roads first. It’s been a long and terrible winter, and the thaw we’re seeing these days sure is welcome. But today’s thaw means tomorrow’s potholes. The harder the winter, the more and the deeper the potholes. And the more expensive, especially when you discover that big thud you heard when you were driving home means a trip to the shop for a tire and a maybe a new wheel.

To his credit, Gov. Rick Snyder has been pushing for years for the big money needed to fix our roads. But it’s an election year, so of course the legislature has been doing everything possible to avoid facing facts and coming up with the money everybody knows we need to fix our concrete ribbons.

The first step in this year’s political pander dance was for a couple Republican senators to propose – what else? – a tax cut. But when it turned out that would pay for, maybe, a couple of lattes at the local Starbucks, support cooled.

And when we got the thaw and as people gasped at the potholes, the political class began to re-think.

I’m told by Lansing insiders that legislators, regardless of party, are being pounded big time to do something about the roads. “Something” may not mean the $1.2 billion per year that Gov. Snyder has been talking about, but it’s got to be a serious, long-term program to bring our roads into the 21st century, not just a few slaps of cold patch and a thin skin of new paving.

If it’s ever going to be done politically, it will have to be done pretty quickly, while folks are

Phil Power seeing firsthand just how much it costs everybody to shirk taking care of basic infrastructure.

Now consider our colleges and universities.

They are just as basic as the roads to our future, since they have to do with the talent and skills of our young people.

Disgracefully, over the past decade, state spending on higher ed has been cut by more than half.

The result has been rapidly rising college tuition … and mushrooming student debt, which is now an average of $29,000 per graduate, according to the higher education data web site college-insight. org.

The nonpartisan House Fiscal Agency reports state support used to cover more than half a college degree’s cost. Today, it’s only around 20 per cent. Michigan is one of the few states in the nation that spends more on warehousing felons in our prison system than on educating our young

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So far, much of the debate has been dominated by some legislators who seem to think an uneducated work force will guarantee prosperity for us all.

Democratic lawmakers, who usually favor increased support for higher education, have been largely silent on the subject, probably because they don’t want to make the governor look good.

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How come?

Democrats think it is good politics to bash Gov. Snyder for shortchanging the schools.

And because spending on both schools and colleges is bundled in an “omnibus” bill, they don’t want to join in a bipartisan vote for passage – even at the risk of hurting our universities, young people, their families and our future.

Paying now for longterm essentials makes for more sense and is far better — and far cheaper — than paying later.

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Talk with a Mortgage Loan Officer at 313-494-3275 to see if you qualify and to learn about our special loan program.

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April 2-8, 2014

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Page A-3

Prime Politics Obama’s meeting with Pope Francis spotlights global poverty crisis

By Cecil J. Thompson SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE

MICHIGAN GOVERNOR RICH SNYDER discusses Michigan-made brake discs with Brembo Business Development and Marketing Director Roberto Vavassori (left) and Brembo Chairman Alberto Bombassei. More than 12 million brake discs per year are manufactured by Brembo North America Inc. in Homer, MI.

Gov. Snyder in Italy on trade talks MILAN — Gov. Rick Snyder and his delegation completed their first day of meetings, plant tours and official receptions in Milan, which launched the team’s weeklong European investment mission to Italy and German.

While in Italy, the delegation will meet with government officials and business executives in Lissone, Bergamo and Turin to strengthen relationships and attract job-creating investments to Michigan. Total foreign trade last year between Michigan and Italy stood at $1.65 billion while import and exports with Germany amounted to $5.9 billion. The trip also marks the first time Snyder and Nigel Francis, the state’s top auto adviser, have traveled together, targeting European auto-industry business.

“The Michigan reinvention story resonates with companies throughout Europe,” said Snyder.

“Michigan’s business climate is attracting foreign businesses that want to expand or relocate to be

in the global capital of the automotive industry. These face-to-face meetings are essential to further establish vital and dynamic relationship with investors and job-creators.”

Highlights of day one of Michigan’s European investment mission began with a plant tour of Brugola OEB Industriale S.p.A. A manufacturer of sockets screws and special fasteners for heavy duty applications, Brugola maintains a warehousing and distribution operation in Canton, Mich.

The company, which serves automotive manufacturers in Europe and North America, is considering a new site for a manufacturing and assembly facility in southeastern Michigan.

From Brugola, the Snyder-led Michigan delegation – which includes Michael Finney, president of Michigan Economic Development Corp. and Nigel Francis, the state’s senior automotive adviser – went on to a plant tour at Brembo Machining.

Big money for college sports, nothing for players

By Rev Jesse Jackson Sr. “It cannot be said that 15 highest football coachthe employed scholar- es in 2011 made $53.4 ship players are ‘primar- million. The 13,877 Diviily students.’” With that sion 1 players got $0.00. statement, a regional diThey do receive scholrector of the National La- arships that, by the bor Relations Board last NCAA’s own figures, avweek accepted a petition erage about $3,000 short

by Northwestern football of the cost of attending players that they were emcollege. The NCAA is ployees under the NLRB making millions peddling and could organize and the images and jerseys form a union. of players, His reasoning even after was simple they graduand compelate, yet they ling. The playdon’t get a ers faced all dime. Many the demands come from of a job — in poor famithe hours the players Rev Jesse Jackson Sr lies and can’t even afford worked, 40-50 hours a week during the a trip home or a spring football season, the con- break. And if they accept trol the coaches exerted, help from a fan, they can and the athletic scholar- lose their eligibility or ships that are a form of their scholarship. As the pay. The players said they Nation’s Dave Zirin conwanted a union largely to cludes, “the population negotiate about health that is most desperate for care and practice hours. an escape out of poverty Many who love col- is the population that has lege sports can’t bear to gotten the rawest possithink of it as polluted by ble deal from the NCAA.” This has, as Taymoney. But here’s the reality: it already is. Big- lor Branch has written, time college athletics — more than “the whiff of particularly Division 1 the plantation.” On the football and basketball cotton plantation, every— is a profitable, profes- one got paid — the land sionalized industry. The owner, the overseer, the TV rights for the new col- wholesaler, everyone exlege football playoffs total cept the slaves who ac$7.3 billion — with a “b” tually picked the cotton.

— over 10 years. The TV They were chattel, had no rights for March Madness, rights that a white ownthe basketball playoffs, er was legally bound to total $10.8 billion over respect. They benefitted, 14 years. College football it was claimed, from the and basketball alone gen- paternal care of the planerates an estimated $6 tation owner, providing billion a year, more than them with room and susthe National Basketball tenance.

Association. The UniverSimilarly, everyone sity of Texas football team generated $71 million in gets paid in big-time colprofit in 2011. Everyone lege athletics except the is making money, except players who actually risk for the players whose play their bodies to provide generates the revenue. the show. It wasn’t a good Famed coaches in public idea for the South to base universities are often the its economy on slave lahighest paid employees bor. And it isn’t a good in the state. Urban Meyer idea for universities to of Ohio State will be paid be the producers of pro$24 million over 6 years. fessionalized, big money As Joe Nocera of the New sports entertainment.

York Times reports, the

Brembo is a large Italian Tier-1 manufacturer of automotive brake systems, especially for high-performance cars and motorcycles. The company recently expanded operations at its Homer, Mich. facility, where it has 300 employees.

Two years ago, Snyder traveled to Europe to strengthen ties with Italian and German companies with business operations in Michigan. Subsequently, a number of Italian and German companies expanded or made significant investments into their Michigan-based business. Among the notable developments was an investment in May 2012 by Germany-based company Brose, a supplier of mechatronic components. Brose invested $60 million and created 450 jobs at its sites in New Boston, Auburn Hills and Warren.

Italian and German companies play an important role in the Michigan economy, notably: There are 350 German companies in Michigan.

Total Michigan-Germany foreign trade for 2013 was nearly $5.9 billion.

There are 40 Italian companies. Total Michigan-Italy foreign trade for 2013 was $1.65 billion.

72,000 Michiganders are employed by Germanand Italian-owned companies operating in the state. These companies represent a wide range of industries, but are heavily concentrated in advanced automotive manufacturing and research and development. This is the Snyder administration’s second mission to Italy and Germany, and the 10th investment mission overall. Other missions led by Snyder or Lt. Gov. Brian Calley have been to Japan, China, Korea, the Netherlands, Brazil, Mexico, Israel, and Canada.

President Obama as a global leader met with Pope Francis in Rome to discuss the devastating impact of poverty in the United States and around the world on Thursday, March 27, 2014.

In a March 27 article, The Daily News reported that the visit was to Cecil J. Thompson call on the Pope’s “great moral authority” in discussing income inequality as a national and global issue.

The article indicated that, for President Obama, income inequality is not only an economic problem, but a moral one. The moral character of the issue places it on the agenda for serious conversation and posits that such inequality is not a mysterious particle free-floating in social and political space, but is one that has causes, effects, and critical inter-linkages with other issues which demand a broad conversation.

Unlike his predecessor, Pope Francis retrieved questions of widespread socioeconomic disparity from the sidelines.

Pope Francis signals that the forgotten will not be forgotten. That is evidence of moral authority. In this sense, the Pope takes seriously Jesus’ concern for the “least of these” (Matt 25:40) and, specifically, the preferential option for the poor.

Therefore, while the President’s main focus is on the widening gap between the very rich and the middle class, the poor should not be ignored. The moral significance of the poor and the broader requirement to critique structures of economic inequality are vital aspects of a single moral and theological system.

To talk morally about Jesus’ “least of these” is a breadth and depth project to which courage and sincerity are indispensable. Jesus’ “least of these” are also those caught in a prison industrial complex, those racially profiled, those in natural calamities, those discriminated against based on sexual orientation, those racially discriminated against, and victims of environmental/ecological catastrophes.

This is not to say that President Obama should literally fill his agenda with a massive amount of issues without regard to what is doable.

The President emphasized increasing economic disparity Of course, having a between the wealthimanageable set of isest Americans and the sues is a practical conmiddle class, and help sideration.

However, for Americans at the the question is: what is bottom of the socioecogenuinely on the agenda nomic ladder. However, for conversation? What according to the article, he was expected not to PRESIDENT OBAMA meeting issues are deemed worthy to be on the agenda? mention the morally with Pope Francis in Rome What kinds of issues controversial issues of are really considered morally and ecogay rights and women’s privacy rights.

Within this framework, the gap between nomically important? the top one percent of Americans and If the President was having a conthe middle class was an important item versation with someone other than the on the agenda. The issue of those at the Pope, one might talk about the meeting bottom of the ladder was marginal. differently. But one with immense mor The questions of gay rights and wom- al authority like Pope Frances has the en’s privacy rights were absent. It is true power to help in the creation of a new that President Obama marks this cen- world with a vision of love, justice, and tury with some of the most progressive reconciliation. policies that the nation and the world Many in the United States and around have seen in a long time. Obama’s stance the world are calling for a partnership on gay marriage is applauded for raising consisting of the President of the United the drumbeat for equal protection under States, the Pope, nations from around the law and affirming that America will the world, and organizations committed not return to the status quo ante. to working tirelessly to bring about a The President’s Affordable Health more just and humane world.

Care Act (Obamacare) not only puts peo- The call of ordinary people to world ple in charge of their health but prom- leaders to rise to moral leadership is a ises Americans a quality life and hope. new prophetic orientation that underA president whose courageous policies stands the wisdom of forming alliances have flooded the 21st century with new and partnering with others for change. light should make high quality inclusive It is the voice of the community of the agendas part of the moral framework for oppressed and people of good will for conversations with the Pope. whom liberation theologies have lighted What raises Pope Francis’s profile as the darkness. As Martin Luther King, a credible moral authority on issues of Jr. stated, “Darkness cannot drive out justice and equality is not just the sym- darkness; only light can do that.” The bolism of the papacy or his own person- light of conversation leads the way. al track record as an embodiment of huCecil J. Thompson is an Ohio-based mility and compassion, but his criticism attorney and candidate for the Master of abuses of the free market economy, of Divinity Program at the Methodist the major factors that resulted in the Theological School in that state. Reach global financial crisis, and the expand- him at cthompson@mtso.edu. ing chasm between the rich and poor in the developed and developing world.

City of Detroit, Michigan

NOTICE OF ELECTION BY MAIL Tuesday, April 15, 2014 To the owners of assessable property as of February 3, 2014 within the following area of the City of Detroit: The geographic area bounded by: Interstate 75 to the north; Interstate 375 north of East Jefferson Avenue and Rivard Street south of East Jefferson Avenue to the east; the Detroit River to the south; and the western line of the property at 1003 West Jefferson Avenue roughly coterminous with Riverfront Drive south of West Jefferson Avenue and Michigan State Highway 10 north of West Jefferson Avenue to the west (“Zone Area”).

Notice is hereby given that an election regarding the establishment of a business improvement zone under Chapter 2 of 1961 PA 120, MCL 125.990 to 125.990n, will be held on Tuesday, April 15, 2014. The election will be conducted by mail, with ballots mailed in advance to property owners eligible to participate in the election.

The purpose of the election is to vote on the adoption of a zone plan and the establishment of the business improvement zone in the Zone Area, including the identity of the board of directors of the business improvement zone.

The full text of the petition for the establishment of a business improvement zone, including the zone plan and initial board of directors, may be viewed at www.downtowndetroitbiz.com or at the office of the Clerk of the City of Detroit, 2 Woodward Avenue, Room 200, telephone (313) 224-3260.

Ballots shall be mailed to the following address:

Detroit Department of Elections 2978 W Grand Blvd Detroit, MI 48202

ALL BALLOTS MUST BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN 4:00PM, TUESDAY, APRIL 15, 2014.

A person or entity (or an agent of the person or entity designated in writing) who as of February 3, 2014 owned real property in the Zone Area other than property classified as residential real property under Section 34c of The General Property Tax Act, 1893 PA 206, MCL 211.34c, or real property exempt from the collection of taxes under The General Property Tax Act, 1893 PA 206, MCL 211.1 to 211.155, is eligible to participate in the election.

This election is conducted under Chapter 2 of 1961 PA 120, MCL 125.990 to 125.990n, and is not an election subject to the Michigan Election Law, 1954 PA 116, MCL 168.1 to 168.992.

Janice M. Winfrey City Clerk

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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Duggan

From page A-1

who has inside knowledge abou the relationships of the different candidates and their ties to Duggan, he isn’t sure if the mayor will jump in.

“This stands to be anybody’s guess if Duggan will support either McNamara or Cavanagh or just do nothing,” Foster said.

Here’s the issue for Duggan who may be wondering who to support in this race.

Kevin McNamara, who has announced his candidacy, is the son of former executive Ed McNamara, the man to whom Duggan owes a lot of his political fortunes to. Duggan came to the political stage from the McNamara machine where he commanded tremendous influence, and even when he moved on to run the Detroit Medical Center, some lieutenants from that machine followed him.

vanagh, a candidate who, according to Foster, also has close family ties to the mayor.

“Cavanagh has a close relationship with Duggan and the families are close,” Foster said. “There is history and relationships that overwhelm other considerations.”

If Duggan were to support Wayne County Sheriff Benny Napoleon, it will not only make for great narrative but also show a stark example of political reconciliation, affirming that both former mayoral candidates have risen above the chasms of their campaign rhetoric.

It is not unsual in politics for opponents to endorse each other down the line but in the case of Napoleon, if he were to run and gets the endorsement of Duggan, it will make a significant statement.

Kevin McNamara sees Duggan as a man his father helped build his career, and will expect out of political loyalty that Duggan will return that favor with an endorsement. Loyalty has always been the cornerstone of politics. You hire people who will be loyal to you and have your back even in the most difficult circummstances. So Kevin will expect the bond that existed between his father and Duggan to now transfer to him as he seeks the job that his father once occupied that made him the most powerful Democrat in Michigan before he died.

“It is not politically prudent to support Napoleon because he can’t win,” Foster said.

“The mayor is like an adopted brother to Kevin McNamara,” is how Foster put it, underscoring the relationship.

In fact, Ford had a rare political breakfast fundraiser for Wild March 28 at the Ford Performing Arts Center in Dearborn where 3000 invitations were mailed out. The tickets to that fundraiser were $250 each and the VIP reception was $500. Having the support of Ford is not a negative for Wild and could redefine his campaign because if he shows he can raise more money than the rest of the candidates, the race will be his to lose.

But Duggan could decide not to do so.

It is a different time and era now. Also, the McNamara machine brought with it political patronage, pay to play and corruption, even though Duggan was never under investigaton or charged with any wrongdoing. The administration of Robert Ficano is losing because of a federal investigation into public malfeasance, and it is not in the interest of any candidate to dangle the McNamara machine as an example of political purity, transparency and acccountability. If anything, any serious candidate will run away from the ghost of the McNamara machine. It is a new day.

Kevin can make the case about why he thinks he’s competent beyond looking at the seat as his father’s former chair. But he’ll have to walk a fine line between telling voters what he can do and political guilt by association. His opponents will make him answer for some of the sins of the McNamara machine his father led.

Another issue for Duggan is Phil Ca-

Race

The poll also shows the color of the candidate will be significant in the run for county executive as 52 percent of White voters remain undecided with only 11 percent supporting Napoleon as Cavanagh gets 15 percent, McNamara at 10 percent and Wild at 8 percent.

Among African-American voters, 45 percent remain undecided with Napoleon leading by 27 percent, followed by Cavanagh with 14 percent, McNamara at 6 percent and Wild at 3 percent.

Another significant indication in the poll shows that support for Napoleon in a four way race among White women who make up the largest voting bloc in Wayne County is at 14 percent when compared to his support among African-American women voters which is at 24 percent. Only 8 percent of White men say they will support Napoleon when juxtaposed with 32 percent of African-American men who will support him.

On the other hand, Cavanagh’s support among White women is at 19 percent and he gets 17 percent from African-American women, 10 percent from White men and only 9 percent from AfricanAmerican men.

“I think Napoleon’s numbers are just identification versus real support. If you are planning on a campaign from a Napoleon side having poor numbers with White women and not having a substantial base of Black women supporting you is problematic,” said Eric Foster, a senior strategist with LB3 Management. “White women are the largest plurality bloc of voters in Wayne County when you combine race and gender. African-American women and White men are statistically tied as the next largest bloc of voters. So to not have high numbers is problematic.”

Foster said Cavanagh, who came second to Napoleon in the poll, is

April 2-8, 2014 Page A-4

Westland Mayor Bill Wild, stands to be the wild card in the race. He has been canvassing a lot of stakeholder meetings, interfacing with business and political leaders whose support will be cruical in the county race. His close relationship to Bill Ford Jr. chairman of Ford Motor Company, is no surprise and that has catapulted him to the center of the business club in metro Detroit.

Another question is whether Duggan will instead endorse Wild who is becoming an early favorite in some business circles because of his outreach, the same road that Duggan traveled when he was running for mayor.

If metro Detroit’s business community and political heavyweights get behind Wild, it will be hard for the mayor to go against that because that was also part of his financial support base when he ran against Napoleon. The mayor also has the option to stay out of the race entirely.

Bankole Thompson is the editor of the Michigan Chronicle. Email bthompson @michgaonricle.com.

From page A-1 where he should be.

“This shows that people are just frustrated.

If you can’t clearly pick a candidate out of the names polled, is a good indication that people are tuned out when it comes to elections,” Mongo said. “This is a good time for somebody who has a fresh perspective on what is going on in Wayne County to step up.”

“These guys haven’t done a good job. It is time for a woman to emerge,” Mongo said.

Asked who would be an ideal female candidate, he responded, “She is sitting right there at city council,” referring to Saunteel Jenkins of the Detroit City Council.

“Although I don’t agree with her most of the time,” Mongo said.

Another female candidate that has been mentioned prominently in the political grapevine is Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy.

Mongo said he doesn’t expect Napoleon to get into the race and that “Ficano needs to just drop out.”

At this point Mongo said, “Cavanagh has that kind of experience and will be a good county executive. I don’t know about Napoleon.”

Paul Welday, president of Renaissance Strategies and a Republican political advisor, said the poll is remarkable.

“That the incumbent sitting county executive is so low in this poll is a remarkable phenomenon,” Welday said. “There is absolutely no way that Ficano can get re-elected.

If he decides to run he will be on the verge of embarrassment. Even with a crowded filed he is this low.”

Welday said Napoleon’s strong name ID comes clear in the poll, “but it also shows some weakness among voters if he is only polling 20 percent. That is a poor support. He could barely break African-American support.”

He said the leading candidate will have to build a broad base coalition in Wayne County with different communities including the ArabAmerican community.

Mongo said that person could be a woman candidate, which could set the stage for the county’s first female leader.

Bankole Thompson is the editor of the Michigan Chronicle. E-mail bthompson@michronicle. com.

“He is at a comparable starting point of where he should be based on past electoral performance,” Foster said referring to Cavanagh’s race against Wayne County Treasurer Wojtowicz. He said Cavanagh is in the best position for the race “because he has built up voter history all over the county and has less baggage.”

Wild, who has been seen around town at stakeholder functions and Detroit events shaking hands, did not do so well because according to Foster, “he has spent time building outreach to stakeholders and hasn’t spent time building numbers with core voting groups in Wayne County.”

Wild, the mayor of Westland, has been very aggressive in his outreach efforts to business and political leaders.

“There are 1069 precincts in Wayne County and Westland only makes up of 45 precincts. He has a lot of ground to cover,” Foster said. “His time is better spent reaching voters not stakeholders.”

Adolph Mongo, political observer who has watched politics for decades in Detroit and Wayne County and advised the campaigns of many major politicians in the region, said the poll is significant because the number of undecided voters shows how fed up Wayne County residents are about their government and the political leaders leading them.

Napoleon has not entered the race, he was the first choice,” said Klinger from his D.C. office. “I was surprised that he fared so well as an undeclared candidate.

This early poll showed that he has strong appeal among voters. However, the margin of sampling error for this survey is a plus/minus 4.9 perc.ent” Klinger quickly urged caution in viewing any front runner at this juncture. “Things can change rather quickly,” said Klinger. “There are a lot of undecided voters out there. As campaign strategies heat up, undecided voters can greatly change things for any front runner. A well-funded campaign created to reach undecided voters could change the dynamics of the race.”

While Napoleon’s poll-leading status may be surprising to some, for one veteran political analyst it is not. “Sheriff Napoleon as the front runner is good and is not a surprise to me,” said Art Blackwell, former Wayne County Commission chair, political consultant, and host of “The Art of Politics” radio program. “It’s great to see what people think of him county wide. The poll shows him to be a very strong and viable candidate should he decide to run.”

Jimmy Settles, Jr., UAW vice president, whose organization endorsed Napoleon in the mayoral race, and Eddie MacDonald, Napoleon’s former mayoral campaign manager, didn’t want to comment on the poll. Settles said that he needed a chance to analyze the poll in its entirety before responding. MacDonald said he just wanted to hold off making any comments at this time.

However, Blackwell was more than willing to speak on the poll as it relates to Napoleon. When asked whether Napoleon should get into the race, Blackwell responded, “I would be supportive of him running because during the mayoral race he did such a great job of letting voters know ex-

From page A-1 actly what he stood for.

I think the same issues that affect Detroit affect Wayne County, with the city being about half of the county. I believe the other cities that make up Wayne County are in need of a strong and dynamic leader like Benny Napoleon.”

Blackwell continued, “Sheriff Napoleon is a county-wide elected official who has all the skills and background needed to be an outstanding chief executive in Wayne County. Based on the fact that he has not even announced that he will run, and is the front runner, is a strong indication to me that people feel that Benny Napoleon is the right guy for the job.”

The poll also showed that almost three-quarters of likely 2014 Democratic Primary voters believe that current Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano’s job performance is poor. (48 percent poor to 26 percent fair). At this time, Ficano has not publicly said if he will seek re-election.

“Ficano has been in the position of public service for a long time,” said Blackwell. “However, it’s no secret that there’s been a number of issues in his administration, and people hold him responsible for the people that he has put around him.

It’s not surprising that voters believe that he has not done a very good job lately.”

When told that if Freman Hendrix, a wellknown African-American local politician who ran for mayor of Detroit twice, were to enter the race, he would cut into Napoleon’s voter-support decreased by 2 percent, Blackwell stated, “Hendrix ate into Benny by two percent, but he (Hendrix) also ate into the candidates that have officially filed to run, Although Sheriff Napoleon’s percentages dipped slightly, it still means that two prominent African Americans can run for the office, with Benny coming in first. That’s a further sign of the extremely strong support that’s out there for Sheriff

Minimum wage eral contract workers and is calling on Congress to raise the national minimum wage from $7.25 to $10.10 per hour and index it to inflation thereafter, while also raising the tipped minimum wage for the first time in over 20 years.

Increasing the minimum wage and the tipped minimum wage is especially important for women, who make up more than half of the workforce in jobs that pay the minimum wage and tipped occupations. The White House has released a new report that lays out how women and the workforce would benefit if Congress passed legislation to raise the national minimum wage and tipped minimum wage for all Americans. Key findings from the report include: Raising the minimum wage is especially important for women because: • Women in the workforce are more highly concentrated in low-wage sectors such as personal care and healthcare support occupations.

• Women account for more than half (55 percent) of all workers who would benefit from increasing the minimum wage to $10.10.

• Women also make up the majority of workers in predominantly tipped occupation. Under federal law, employers are allowed to pay a “tipped minimum wage” of $2.13 to employees who regularly earn tips as long as their tips plus the tipped minimum wage meet or exceed $7.25 per hour.

• Women account for 72 percent of all workers in predominantly tipped occupations.

• Average hourly wages for workers in predominantly tipped occupations are nearly 40 percent lower than overall

Napoleon.”

Blackwell added that he believes that Napoleon has broad appeal among other ethnic groups.

“Sherriff Napoleon has support among White voters as well,” said Blackwell. “His support is strong and diverse. It does not matter who gets into the race, if Sherriff Napoleon decides to run, he will be fine.”

The poll also showed that Napoleon led all declared candidates among both older and younger voters. He also received a 2-point edge among voters in union households, slightly higher than Cavanagh. In nonunion households, Napoleon again led the pack with 20 percent, with Cavanagh coming in at 13 percent.

But 51 percent of nonunion households are undecided.

“This race will be wide open because approximately half of the voters polled are still undecided,” Klinger said. “There does not seem to be lot of interest in the race at this time, which I found rather surprising. But I expect that will change pretty quickly as the deadline for filing gets closer.”

The last day to file for candidacy in the Wayne County Executive’s race is Tuesday, April 22, 2014. The Primary election is Tuesday, Aug. 5; the general election is Tuesday, Nov. 4.

About Lake Research Partners: The research firm is one of America’s leading and most respected public opinion and political strategy research entities, which provides expert researchbased strategy for campaigns, issue advocacy groups, foundations and other organizations. The company is headquartered in Washington, D.C., with offices in New York and Berkeley, California.

Celinda Lake, one of the Democratic Party’s leading political strategies, serves as the firm’s president.

From page A-1

average hourly wages.

• Workers in predominantly tipped occupations are twice as likely as other workers to experience poverty, and servers are almost three times as likely to be in poverty.

• About half of all workers in predominantly tipped occupations would see their earnings increase.

The national tipped minimum wage has been stuck at $2.13 for over 20 years. Partly as a result, tipped workers are at greater risk of not earning the full minimum wage, even though employers are required by law to ensure that employees’ tips plus their employer-paid wage meet or exceed the full minimum wage.

• Since 1991, the tipped minimum wage has declined by 40 percent in real terms.

• When surveyed, more than 1 in 10 workers in predominantly tipped occupations report hourly wages below the full national minimum wage, including tips. This fact highlights the challenges of ensuring compliance with minimum wage laws for tipped workers, as the employer contribution has been eroded by 20 years of inflation.

• Many states have recognized the need for a greater employer contribution to the wages of tipped workers. Currently 32 states (including the District of Columbia) require employers to pay tipped workers an hourly wage that exceeds the national tipped minimum of $2.13 – and seven of these states require employers to pay both tipped and non-tipped workers the same state minimum wage before tips.

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Duggan

From page A-1

who has inside knowledge abou the relationships of the different candidates and their ties to Duggan, he isn’t sure if the mayor will jump in.

“This stands to be anybody’s guess if Duggan will support either McNamara or Cavanagh or just do nothing,” Foster said.

Here’s the issue for Duggan who may be wondering who to support in this race.

Kevin McNamara, who has announced his candidacy, is the son of former executive Ed McNamara, the man to whom Duggan owes a lot of his political fortunes to. Duggan came to the political stage from the McNamara machine where he commanded tremendous influence, and even when he moved on to run the Detroit Medical Center, some lieutenants from that machine followed him.

vanagh, a candidate who, according to Foster, also has close family ties to the mayor.

“Cavanagh has a close relationship with Duggan and the families are close,” Foster said. “There is history and relationships that overwhelm other considerations.”

If Duggan were to support Wayne County Sheriff Benny Napoleon, it will not only make for great narrative but also show a stark example of political reconciliation, affirming that both former mayoral candidates have risen above the chasms of their campaign rhetoric.

It is not unsual in politics for opponents to endorse each other down the line but in the case of Napoleon, if he were to run and gets the endorsement of Duggan, it will make a significant statement.

Kevin McNamara sees Duggan as a man his father helped build his career, and will expect out of political loyalty that Duggan will return that favor with an endorsement. Loyalty has always been the cornerstone of politics. You hire people who will be loyal to you and have your back even in the most difficult circummstances. So Kevin will expect the bond that existed between his father and Duggan to now transfer to him as he seeks the job that his father once occupied that made him the most powerful Democrat in Michigan before he died.

“It is not politically prudent to support Napoleon because he can’t win,” Foster said.

“The mayor is like an adopted brother to Kevin McNamara,” is how Foster put it, underscoring the relationship.

In fact, Ford had a rare political breakfast fundraiser for Wild March 28 at the Ford Performing Arts Center in Dearborn where 3000 invitations were mailed out. The tickets to that fundraiser were $250 each and the VIP reception was $500. Having the support of Ford is not a negative for Wild and could redefine his campaign because if he shows he can raise more money than the rest of the candidates, the race will be his to lose.

But Duggan could decide not to do so.

It is a different time and era now. Also, the McNamara machine brought with it political patronage, pay to play and corruption, even though Duggan was never under investigaton or charged with any wrongdoing. The administration of Robert Ficano is losing because of a federal investigation into public malfeasance, and it is not in the interest of any candidate to dangle the McNamara machine as an example of political purity, transparency and acccountability. If anything, any serious candidate will run away from the ghost of the McNamara machine. It is a new day.

Kevin can make the case about why he thinks he’s competent beyond looking at the seat as his father’s former chair. But he’ll have to walk a fine line between telling voters what he can do and political guilt by association. His opponents will make him answer for some of the sins of the McNamara machine his father led.

Another issue for Duggan is Phil Ca-

Race

The poll also shows the color of the candidate will be significant in the run for county executive as 52 percent of White voters remain undecided with only 11 percent supporting Napoleon as Cavanagh gets 15 percent, McNamara at 10 percent and Wild at 8 percent.

Among African-American voters, 45 percent remain undecided with Napoleon leading by 27 percent, followed by Cavanagh with 14 percent, McNamara at 6 percent and Wild at 3 percent.

Another significant indication in the poll shows that support for Napoleon in a four way race among White women who make up the largest voting bloc in Wayne County is at 14 percent when compared to his support among African-American women voters which is at 24 percent. Only 8 percent of White men say they will support Napoleon when juxtaposed with 32 percent of African-American men who will support him.

On the other hand, Cavanagh’s support among White women is at 19 percent and he gets 17 percent from African-American women, 10 percent from White men and only 9 percent from AfricanAmerican men.

“I think Napoleon’s numbers are just identification versus real support. If you are planning on a campaign from a Napoleon side having poor numbers with White women and not having a substantial base of Black women supporting you is problematic,” said Eric Foster, a senior strategist with LB3 Management. “White women are the largest plurality bloc of voters in Wayne County when you combine race and gender. African-American women and White men are statistically tied as the next largest bloc of voters. So to not have high numbers is problematic.”

Foster said Cavanagh, who came second to Napoleon in the poll, is

April 2-8, 2014 Page A-4

Westland Mayor Bill Wild, stands to be the wild card in the race. He has been canvassing a lot of stakeholder meetings, interfacing with business and political leaders whose support will be cruical in the county race. His close relationship to Bill Ford Jr. chairman of Ford Motor Company, is no surprise and that has catapulted him to the center of the business club in metro Detroit.

Another question is whether Duggan will instead endorse Wild who is becoming an early favorite in some business circles because of his outreach, the same road that Duggan traveled when he was running for mayor.

If metro Detroit’s business community and political heavyweights get behind Wild, it will be hard for the mayor to go against that because that was also part of his financial support base when he ran against Napoleon. The mayor also has the option to stay out of the race entirely.

Bankole Thompson is the editor of the Michigan Chronicle. Email bthompson @michronicle.com.

From page A-1 where he should be.

“This shows that people are just frustrated.

If you can’t clearly pick a candidate out of the names polled, is a good indication that people are tuned out when it comes to elections,” Mongo said. “This is a good time for somebody who has a fresh perspective on what is going on in Wayne County to step up.”

“These guys haven’t done a good job. It is time for a woman to emerge,” Mongo said.

Asked who would be an ideal female candidate, he responded, “She is sitting right there at city council,” referring to Saunteel Jenkins of the Detroit City Council.

“Although I don’t agree with her most of the time,” Mongo said.

Another female candidate that has been mentioned prominently in the political grapevine is Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy.

Mongo said he doesn’t expect Napoleon to get into the race and that “Ficano needs to just drop out.”

At this point Mongo said, “Cavanagh has that kind of experience and will be a good county executive. I don’t know about Napoleon.”

Paul Welday, president of Renaissance Strategies and a Republican political advisor, said the poll is remarkable.

“That the incumbent sitting county executive is so low in this poll is a remarkable phenomenon,” Welday said. “There is absolutely no way that Ficano can get re-elected.

If he decides to run he will be on the verge of embarrassment. Even with a crowded filed he is this low.”

Welday said Napoleon’s strong name ID comes clear in the poll, “but it also shows some weakness among voters if he is only polling 20 percent. That is a poor support. He could barely break African-American support.”

He said the leading candidate will have to build a broad base coalition in Wayne County with different communities including the ArabAmerican community.

Mongo said that person could be a woman candidate, which could set the stage for the county’s first female leader.

Bankole Thompson is the editor of the Michigan Chronicle. E-mail bthompson@michronicle. com.

“He is at a comparable starting point of where he should be based on past electoral performance,” Foster said referring to Cavanagh’s race against Wayne County Treasurer Wojtowicz. He said Cavanagh is in the best position for the race “because he has built up voter history all over the county and has less baggage.”

Wild, who has been seen around town at stakeholder functions and Detroit events shaking hands, did not do so well because according to Foster, “he has spent time building outreach to stakeholders and hasn’t spent time building numbers with core voting groups in Wayne County.”

Wild, the mayor of Westland, has been very aggressive in his outreach efforts to business and political leaders.

“There are 1069 precincts in Wayne County and Westland only makes up of 45 precincts. He has a lot of ground to cover,” Foster said. “His time is better spent reaching voters not stakeholders.”

Adolph Mongo, political observer who has watched politics for decades in Detroit and Wayne County and advised the campaigns of many major politicians in the region, said the poll is significant because the number of undecided voters shows how fed up Wayne County residents are about their government and the political leaders leading them.

Napoleon has not entered the race, he was the first choice,” said Klinger from his D.C. office. “I was surprised that he fared so well as an undeclared candidate.

This early poll showed that he has strong appeal among voters. However, the margin of sampling error for this survey is a plus/minus 4.9 perc.ent” Klinger quickly urged caution in viewing any front runner at this juncture. “Things can change rather quickly,” said Klinger. “There are a lot of undecided voters out there. As campaign strategies heat up, undecided voters can greatly change things for any front runner. A well-funded campaign created to reach undecided voters could change the dynamics of the race.”

While Napoleon’s poll-leading status may be surprising to some, for one veteran political analyst it is not. “Sheriff Napoleon as the front runner is good and is not a surprise to me,” said Art Blackwell, former Wayne County Commission chair, political consultant, and host of “The Art of Politics” radio program. “It’s great to see what people think of him county wide. The poll shows him to be a very strong and viable candidate should he decide to run.”

Jimmy Settles, Jr., UAW vice president, whose organization endorsed Napoleon in the mayoral race, and Eddie MacDonald, Napoleon’s former mayoral campaign manager, didn’t want to comment on the poll. Settles said that he needed a chance to analyze the poll in its entirety before responding. MacDonald said he just wanted to hold off making any comments at this time.

However, Blackwell was more than willing to speak on the poll as it relates to Napoleon. When asked whether Napoleon should get into the race, Blackwell responded, “I would be supportive of him running because during the mayoral race he did such a great job of letting voters know ex-

From page A-1 actly what he stood for.

I think the same issues that affect Detroit affect Wayne County, with the city being about half of the county. I believe the other cities that make up Wayne County are in need of a strong and dynamic leader like Benny Napoleon.”

Blackwell continued, “Sheriff Napoleon is a county-wide elected official who has all the skills and background needed to be an outstanding chief executive in Wayne County. Based on the fact that he has not even announced that he will run, and is the front runner, is a strong indication to me that people feel that Benny Napoleon is the right guy for the job.”

The poll also showed that almost three-quarters of likely 2014 Democratic Primary voters believe that current Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano’s job performance is poor. (48 percent poor to 26 percent fair). At this time, Ficano has not publicly said if he will seek re-election.

“Ficano has been in the position of public service for a long time,” said Blackwell. “However, it’s no secret that there’s been a number of issues in his administration, and people hold him responsible for the people that he has put around him.

It’s not surprising that voters believe that he has not done a very good job lately.”

When told that if Freman Hendrix, a wellknown African-American local politician who ran for mayor of Detroit twice, were to enter the race, he would cut into Napoleon’s voter-support decreased by 2 percent, Blackwell stated, “Hendrix ate into Benny by two percent, but he (Hendrix) also ate into the candidates that have officially filed to run, Although Sheriff Napoleon’s percentages dipped slightly, it still means that two prominent African Americans can run for the office, with Benny coming in first. That’s a further sign of the extremely strong support that’s out there for Sheriff

Minimum wage eral contract workers and is calling on Congress to raise the national minimum wage from $7.25 to $10.10 per hour and index it to inflation thereafter, while also raising the tipped minimum wage for the first time in over 20 years.

Increasing the minimum wage and the tipped minimum wage is especially important for women, who make up more than half of the workforce in jobs that pay the minimum wage and tipped occupations. The White House has released a new report that lays out how women and the workforce would benefit if Congress passed legislation to raise the national minimum wage and tipped minimum wage for all Americans. Key findings from the report include: Raising the minimum wage is especially important for women because: • Women in the workforce are more highly concentrated in low-wage sectors such as personal care and healthcare support occupations.

• Women account for more than half (55 percent) of all workers who would benefit from increasing the minimum wage to $10.10.

• Women also make up the majority of workers in predominantly tipped occupation. Under federal law, employers are allowed to pay a “tipped minimum wage” of $2.13 to employees who regularly earn tips as long as their tips plus the tipped minimum wage meet or exceed $7.25 per hour.

• Women account for 72 percent of all workers in predominantly tipped occupations.

• Average hourly wages for workers in predominantly tipped occupations are nearly 40 percent lower than overall

Napoleon.”

Blackwell added that he believes that Napoleon has broad appeal among other ethnic groups.

“Sherriff Napoleon has support among White voters as well,” said Blackwell. “His support is strong and diverse. It does not matter who gets into the race, if Sherriff Napoleon decides to run, he will be fine.”

The poll also showed that Napoleon led all declared candidates among both older and younger voters. He also received a 2-point edge among voters in union households, slightly higher than Cavanagh. In nonunion households, Napoleon again led the pack with 20 percent, with Cavanagh coming in at 13 percent.

But 51 percent of nonunion households are undecided.

“This race will be wide open because approximately half of the voters polled are still undecided,” Klinger said. “There does not seem to be lot of interest in the race at this time, which I found rather surprising. But I expect that will change pretty quickly as the deadline for filing gets closer.”

The last day to file for candidacy in the Wayne County Executive’s race is Tuesday, April 22, 2014. The Primary election is Tuesday, Aug. 5; the general election is Tuesday, Nov. 4.

About Lake Research Partners: The research firm is one of America’s leading and most respected public opinion and political strategy research entities, which provides expert researchbased strategy for campaigns, issue advocacy groups, foundations and other organizations. The company is headquartered in Washington, D.C., with offices in New York and Berkeley, California.

Celinda Lake, one of the Democratic Party’s leading political strategies, serves as the firm’s president.

From page A-1

average hourly wages.

• Workers in predominantly tipped occupations are twice as likely as other workers to experience poverty, and servers are almost three times as likely to be in poverty.

• About half of all workers in predominantly tipped occupations would see their earnings increase.

The national tipped minimum wage has been stuck at $2.13 for over 20 years. Partly as a result, tipped workers are at greater risk of not earning the full minimum wage, even though employers are required by law to ensure that employees’ tips plus their employer-paid wage meet or exceed the full minimum wage.

• Since 1991, the tipped minimum wage has declined by 40 percent in real terms.

• When surveyed, more than 1 in 10 workers in predominantly tipped occupations report hourly wages below the full national minimum wage, including tips. This fact highlights the challenges of ensuring compliance with minimum wage laws for tipped workers, as the employer contribution has been eroded by 20 years of inflation.

• Many states have recognized the need for a greater employer contribution to the wages of tipped workers. Currently 32 states (including the District of Columbia) require employers to pay tipped workers an hourly wage that exceeds the national tipped minimum of $2.13 – and seven of these states require employers to pay both tipped and non-tipped workers the same state minimum wage before tips.

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

April 2-8, 2014

Page A-5

Connecticut becomes first state to raise minimum wage to $10.10 News comes as minimum wage ballot initiative gears up in Michigan Recently, Connecticut lawmakers became the first in the country to pass legislation increasing the state’s minimum wage to $10.10 an hour by 2017. A ballot initiative is under way in Michigan that also seeks to raise the minimum wage to $10.10 in the same timeframe.

“By raising the minimum wage and improving the income and quality of life of workers and their families, Connecticut is setting a great example

Kain Colter of Northwestern university.

for Michigan to follow,” said former U.S. Congressman Hansen Clarke.

“Even though our legislators in Lansing have not acted to help hard-working Michiganders who deserve a raise, the people can act by putting this measure on the November ballot. I salute Raise Michigan for their leadership on this issue.”

Working full time at a minimum wage job in Michigan means a yearly salary of $15,392, not enough to keep a family above the poverty line.

Raising the minimum wage would improve the incomes and lives of over 1 million Michigan workers.

Diversity, labor and paying college athletes

By Bill Spriggs The Chicago regional office of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has ruled in favor of the College Athletes Players Association (CAPA) in determining that the scholarship football players at private Northwestern university had the right to form a union. Courageous leadership by Kain Colter of Northwestern and CAPA founder Ramogi Huma led to this victory. Now everyone is crying in their beer because the discussion has focused on athletes being paid. But, CAPA is about all that unions do: giving voice to the workers.

Too little attention is focused on issues of player safety and health in the media storm following the ruling. For instance, almost no mention has been made of the new $1 billion TV contract for the NCAA and the lack of longterm health assistance to former players who have been injured. And, few reporters have read the decision to understand the facts presented: including “voluntary” meetings extending beyond the four hours a day of required practice allowed

by NCAA rules, organized practices between 7:50 a.m. and 11:50 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday that clearly conflict with scheduled coursework and travel time to and from games, not included in the NCAA count of time players spend. In all, players spend 40 to 50 hours a week on football during the fall semester of classes.

Some are taking this as a teaching moment to reflect on access to higher

education more of baccalaubroadly. During reate holders March Madfrom HBCUs ness, some of like Prairie the ironies are View A&M Uniin full display. versity, TuskeUCLA, with a gee Universistoried history ty and North in college basCarolina A&T ketball, made State Univerit to the round sity are higher of 16 this week than for many in the NCAA Diof the schools vision I men’s in the Sweet basketball 16 like the Bill Spriggs t o u r n a­m e n t .

Universities Less noticed is that this of Arizona, Wisconsin, past fall, UCLA admitted Kentucky and Tennessee only about 48 male Afri- and Iowa State University, can American freshmen. Michigan State University Many of the universities and Baylor University. we see on television in Howard University, March show basketball Spelman College, Xavier teams with great diver- University of Louisiana, sity. Yet, their broader Hampton University, Florstudy body does not look ida A&M University and so diverse.

Morgan State University To young African-American men, in particular, is there little wonder then that sports appear to be the real ticket? Currently, the U.S. Department of Education is touting rules that ironically will benefit these same schools, as if they were models in developing the talent America needs for its future given that the majority of Americans born this year are of color and 20 percent of American children are poor. The scorecard the department envisions does not reward the schools doing the heavy lifting outside this limelight.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are responsible for about one in five African-Americans who earn baccalaureate degrees in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) fields. That is why, Payscale.com shows that the starting salaries

are the top six in the nation in producing black workers who will go on to earn doctorates in the STEM fields. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a distant member of the leaders, in 12th place.

Yet, the Education Department is pursuing a scorecard slanted to be a model for universities with huge endowments and already high tuition like MIT. That model doles out discounts to some students who need help paying tuition and saddles many with debts.

The model does not scale up to handle large numbers of slots for students who qualify for Pell grants-which max out at $5,645 a year. Among top schools, Harvard and MIT look good for having 20 percent of their students eligible for Pell Grants.

At Tuskegee, 64 percent of students get Pell Grants, as it is high for

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most HBCUs. But without the $32 billion in endowment of Harvard or the $11 billion endowment of MIT, and without being able to charge tuition rates of around $43,000 like Harvard and MIT, it is a huge challenge to provide assistance to such a large number of students without the means to pay; and leads to rising debt for others.

The other solution is for America to commit to dramatically increase investment in our colleges-publicly endow them-to make access to college an American right-not leave access to the vagaries of past inequalities and the elites who aren’t measuring up in delivering access or diversity on the necessary scale.

William Spriggs serves as chief economist to the AFL-CIO, and is a professor in, and former Chair of, the Department of Economics at Howard University. He is a former assistant secretary for the Office of Policy at the U.S. Department of Labor.

ATTENTION: WAYNE COUNTY RESIDENTS Would you benefit from affordable, high quality rental housing?

The Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV) administered by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) may be able to help. The HCV program is a federally funded rental subsidy program that assists persons with paying their rent.

MSHDA’s Project-Based Voucher Program is partnering with American Community Developers and Independent Management Services to make one and two bedroom rental subsidies available at Joy West Manor Apartments located at 16301 Joy Road, Detroit, MI. The Project-Based Voucher (PBV) waiting list will be established by MSHDA beginning Monday, April 7, 2014 for all applicants who qualify. The waiting list for the PBV program will remain open until further notice. You may qualify for residency at Joy West Manor if your income falls within the allowable limits (30% of the area median income) based on family size for Wayne County.

Beginning Monday, April 7, 2014, the property management staff at Joy West Manor will be available from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday to determine your eligibility and assist with the application process. You can contact the staff at 313-584-4957 or visit their office at the address listed above to discuss your eligibility.

NOTE: Proof of legal identity (birth) and proof of a valid social security number will be required for all members of the household.

Page A-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • April 2-8, 2014

T:10” S:10”

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SECTION B

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April 2-8, 2014

Back row from left: John Salley, Joe Dumars, James Edwards, Mark Aguirre, John Long, Bill Lambeer, Rick Mahorn, Fennis Dembo and Mike Abdenour. Front row from left: Isaiah Thomas, Jack McCloskey, Vinnie Johnson, Michael Williams, Brendan Malone, Brendan Suhr and Cydney Daly. — Andre Smith photo

It’s Bad Boys for life

By Chiara C. Clayton

I

Isaiah Thomas, Tom Gores and Dave Bing.

Joe Dumars and Isaiah Thomas.

Isaiah Thomas, David Stern and Earl Cureton.

t’s hard to believe it’s been 25 years since the Detroit Pistons won their first championship and changed how professional basketball was played. 1989 was the year, Isaiah Thomas, Joe Dumars, Mark Aguirre, Rick Mahorn, Bill Laimbeer, James Edwards, John Salley, Dennis Rodman and Vinnie Johnson were the squad, and “Bad Boys” was the name. Many considered this team the best Detroit basketball has ever seen, and according to the voice of the Detroit Pistons, George Blaha, “the toughest team ever in the NBA.” So that made the Bad Boys Unite reunion weekend that took place March 27-28 that much more special. It truly was a touching reunion to reminisce on the heyday of Detroit basketball, and celebrate the magnificent team that brought the whole state together and made the city of Detroit a city of champions.

The celebration started off with a charity event on Thursday, March 27, at the Westin Book Cadillac Hotel in downtown Detroit. This private event raised funds for local Detroit charities including Forgotten Harvest, Capuchin Soup Kitchen, Cornerstone Schools, Jalen Rose Leadership Academy, the Rhonda Walker Foundation, and CATCH (Sparky Anderson’s charity for children). The event was sponsored by Piston owner Tom Gores, the Detroit Pistons, the William Davidson Foundation, Lear Corporation and Penske Corporation.

1980s and was created due to the physical defense-oriented style the Detroit Pistons utilized. It was a perfect match for the city the Pistons represented and the type of basketball playing the 1988-1989 team would display was unlike anything the NBA had seen before.

Also, it forced new rules to be introduced to the association.

John Salley remarked how the man who instituted those new rules, David Stern, was at the charity event with “a lot of security.” In his trademark witty delivery, he went on to say, “David coming here to Detroit for this means a lot. When I got in the league it was a different mentality. David changed that mentality.”

The Pistons’ 1989 championship win saw them battle the Los Angeles Lakers and sweep them in a four-game series. This would be almost the same story when talking about their last championship run, the 2004 championship win also against the Lakers (but taking five games to win instead of four). But nothing can compare to the first time that would demonstrate the power of a true team effort that the Detroit Pistons would become known for.

At the Pistons vs. the Heat game at the Palace of Auburn Hills the next evening, fans from all over the Detroit area came, many in their vintage 1989 Bad Boy vintage t-shirts (some even sporting “Hammertime” tees that represented the Pistons’ 1990 Championship) and excited to see the half-time commemoration.

Before the halftime show, there was a touching video monIt was truly a baskettage dedicated to the ball royalty event with beloved Pistons coach, attendees including all the late Chuck Daly, the Bad Boys (except who passed away in for Dennis Rodman) 2009. There to repand former NBA comresent him was his missioner David Stern Chiara C. Clayton and Isaiah Thomas. daughter Cydney Daly. who made a special trip She was visibly emoto the D to celebrate with the championship team. tional watching the tribute to her dad and when Other attendees included current Pistons asked what this evening would have meant to her Chauncey Billips and Andre Drummond and a host dad she said, “I think that this would have been of Detroit’s finest. The event was festive and filled like a family reunion to be honest with you. As evwith well-wishes and reverie for the honorees of eryone knows we weren’t just a team, we were a the night. Each Bad Boy could be seen accepting family. I think that with the coming together of the hearty handshakes, hugs, shared memories and team, he would see that the love was still there. He admiration for what they had accomplished. The would feel blessed to be here.” heartbeat of the team, hall of famer Isaiah Thomas, Daly (who has her father’s smile) went on to shared his sentiments on how it felt to be back in say that she remembers attending every game as the city of Detroit and celebrating the 25th annia child. versary of the first Detroit Pistons championship.

“I was able to experience the absolute exuber“It feels awesome to be back celebrating, and ance that this team was able to get from the fans just passing on the stories and beliefs of the tradiand the city of Detroit and the love they gave me tion we tried to establish in terms of winning. Also and my dad. It was the greatest feeling in the the style of play, and the culture of how we as Pisworld,” she said. tons live, act and believe,” he said.

And that was the theme of the 15-minute comIt is amazing how Thomas still looks like the memoration that was given to the 1989 Detroit same baby-faced young man from the Detroit Pistons championship team during halftime. With Edison commercial (remembers those ?) and how “The Final Countdown” by the band Europe playexcited he was to talk about his old team. But his ing in the background, each player was introduced focus that night was giving back to the city that to thunderous applause and Isaiah Thomas spoke lists him as one of its legendary sports figures. for his team when it was time for remarks, and he “Tonight is about giving back to the city. The made it all about the fans. money that we will raise tonight will touch some “Thank you, Detroit. With your support and lives,” he said. being behind us we all persevered to become chamThe “Bad Boys” nickname started in the late pions,” he said.

community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

April 2-8, 2014 Page B-2

Congratulations to the BCBSM and Michigan Chronicle “Hit a Homerun for Health” Essay Contest Winners!

B

lue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and the Detroit Tigers have again partnered to host Kids Opening Day at Comerica Park. As part of the festivities taking place on Sunday, April 6, Blue Cross and the Michigan Chronicle teamed up to launch an essay contest for five lucky kids to win tickets to watch the Tigers take on the Baltimore Orioles.

Focused on ‘How will you hit a homerun for your health?’, students from around the area submitted essays detailing how they strive to stay healthy.

A panel of judges from the Michigan Chronicle and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan narrowed the field and selected five lucky winners. Each of them will receive four tickets and will be able to participate in exercises on the field prior to the game, led by Detroit Tigers’ training staff and run the bases after the game.

The BCBSM and Michigan Chronicle contest winners will join nearly 200 youth participants from the Boys and Girls Club, HYPE Athletics, Detroit PAL and the YMCA. All of the participating youth will receive shirts featuring the Detroit Tigers Kids’ Opening Day logo, a cheer card, and have the opportunity to enjoy a healthy lunch at the park.

Congratulations to Maxwell Hosmer, Trinity Martin, Summyr and Wynter McClain, and Brooke Solomon.

The winning entries:

Maxwell Hosmer Age: 10 To me, I have tons of ideas on how to hit a homerun for my health and this is just a few. One way that is fun is to just on nice days play some baseball for fun with a friend. This is a nice way to have fun instead of playing video games. Another is to eat fruits and vegetables instead of maybe junk food like chips and crackers. Something else could be to do more than an hour of exercise per day.

Some may think that is that a lot but to me, that is not a lot at ALL. Any sport is good for health so playing baseball, basketball, football, soccer, hockey, kickball or even just running around is good for your health. Another good way for me is to attend walking club at school to exercise in the morning.

Another way I hit a homerun for my health is to teach little kids how important it is to eat healthy to get better at sports and more. I tell my neighbor

that playing sports is a good way to stay healthy. Sometimes I like to tell little kids at school about eating healthy and how important it is to exercise instead of watching TV. Even just going outside and going to a park can help me get better at baseball. This was just a few out of the tons of ways to stay healthy!

Trinity Martin Age: 12 Hello, my name is Trinity Martin and I am in the 6th grade at Spain School.

Health is not an easy topic for me to talk about with anyone these days. You see I am an overweight girl and my self-esteem, motivation, and health are not the best.

I have both of my parents, two sisters, 8 & 9 years old and a brother, 3 years old. They are thin and healthy. We all have bad dental issues (brushing regularly) and I eat things that I shouldn’t.

My thinking is to hit this homerun as strong and hard as I can, like Cabrera.

To put my heart, soul and body into making me be the best I can in 2014.

It’s hard seeing other kids fit into nice clothes. I’ve started doing some exercises and I walk a lot more. My motivation now is seeing my cousin weighing 85lbs less. She’s very pretty in a size 16 now from a 22 last summer.

My Auntie Joy enrolled me into a girl’s mentoring program (Urban Rose Foundation), for two years and I enjoy it. I want to lose weight, get healthier, and stay ahead in my studies. The only way to do this is by believing in me, loving me, and running around those bases at Comerica Park with The Detroit Tigers!

Summyr & Wynter McClain Age: 13 To stay healthy you need to exercise, eat nutritional foods, take vitamins, practice cleanliness/safety awareness, get plenty of rest and be obedient. This is how my brother, Wynter and I, Summyr McClain practice hitting a homerun for our health. We start our day making it to first base with prayer, cleanliness (tidying our room) and hygiene (brushing teeth and showering).

Moving to second base, we eat a good healthy breakfast so we’ll have energy to help us to stay focused to make it to third base where we have our daily educational and physical activities. After a

Summyr McClain

Maxwell Hosmer

Trinity Martin

health!

Next, you can hit a home run with you health by participating in a sport you enjoy, so that it can be fun and you it will be a great way to stay healthy. When I play tennis I don’t just hit on the court but I also I work out in a gym and I prepare myself mentally. But I don’t only play one sport I also play basketball, and run track to help me stay healthy.

I stay healthy because first of all when you are healthy you are less likely to become sick. Secondly, staying healthy gives you options of doing something fun like playing a sport or and activity.

Also, it will help me to keep these skills even when I’m older because I started at a young age. Finally, I will be stronger and have a better functioning body.

Everyone should try to become healthy and stay that way.

Brooke Solomon Age: 11 Many people think you can only hit a home run in baseball, but you can hit a home run in everything, especially your health. I am a very athletic kid and my main sport is tennis, so saying healthy is important. To stay healthy you can do something as simple of 20-30 minutes of exercise a day even if it’s just running, also to remain healthy you have to eat right. Eating sugary foods may taste good but you shouldn’t always eat them.

Fruit and veggies are tasty and are good for you, they are a home run for your

C SPR OMI ING NG 201 4

AC H I Fall S chool C

EVE!

hoice

Despite many changes over the past few years, too few tools exist to help parents easily navigate through today’s educational landscape.

Our educational guide gives parents the tools not only to identify the “best” schools, but also to choose the best school for their child.

Brooke Solomon

balanced lunch, we’re motivated to make a “Home Run” to be with our family. After discussing how our day went, we eat a delicious dinner and get ready for the next day by getting plenty of sleep.

The Michigan Chronicle is proud to present our 2014 spring school choice guide, ACHIEVE!

ACHIEVE! aims to identify the options, issues and performance of Metro Detroit schools, while exposing existing disparities between school types and districts. ACHIEVE! offers an unbiased view of public, magnet, private or charter school options worthy of exploration, in addition to high-quality after school, tutoring and other programs that support urban households.

Wynter McClain

Guide

A+

Pg. 3

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Is you r ch Makin ild’s scho o g the Grad l e?

FIND OUT!

The E xcell ent S ch Scor ecarools Detr d oit

*Back

Over 50,000 copies of ACHIEVE! have been distributed throughout metro Detroit via insertion in the Michigan Chronicle, direct drops at targeted schools, libraries, resource centers, local churches and retail chains.

We hope you find the information within the pages to be informative and helpful.

For advertising and sponsorship opportunities call 313.963.5522. Make sure that parents are aware of your school!



Motiv a Unmo ting the tiv Stude ated nt

to Sch

ool!

EXPE RT AD • Fin VICE ding aQ •

•

Wha uality t Early Seed is Blende Le d s to S choo Learnin arning C ente g? l Succ r ess P lante d at H ome

Community community community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE THE MICHIGAN THE MICHIGANCHRONICLE CHRONICLE

Now through April 20 December July 24 26 - March 16

Now through May 3 December 26 May - August

July 24 - 30, 2013 Page B-3 December 252-8, - 31, 2013 Page Page April 2014 B-3 B-3

April 26

aDecember five-mile walk29 down the RiverWalk, up the January84 Dequindre Cut, and back. The Pearls of PromiseAugust Foundation of Detroit Inc. Spirit of Sankofa Awards, Recognition & Discover the Wonders tour atpresents the Detroit the 2014 Green & White Presentation Ball Kwanzaa Ball Public Library For more information, call (313) 288Golfing For Scholarships Laurel Manor 8076 or visit MRCWalk@MIMarriage.org.

6:00 pm until 1:00Livonia pm 39000 Schoolcraft Road, Links Nov Golf ClubMain Branch Detroit Yacht Club DetroitofPublic Library 6 p.m.

2 Riverbank Drive, Belle Isle Park, Detroit 5201 Woodward Ave., Detroit, Family Fun and Fitness DayThe 2014 Green & White Presentation will celebrate Proceeds from theBall 87th annual golf Deouting troit’s next generation of female leadership.

The main thrust will go towards college scholarships benefitThe evening will be full of celebration, disTour the history and art of the Main Branch Belle Isle of the Ivylettes isthe academic excellence, community ing Michigan Youth Appreciation Founcovery, empowerment and mastery.

Dinner,program of the Detroit Public Library on the Discover service and leadership development.

Tickets are $55.

Attire is dation.

More than 200 golfers are expected entertainment and dancing are included in the Wonders tour. Reservations are required.

Presented Detroit Parent Network, this wear.to participate formal evening the special by night.

Formal attire is required.

Admission is free. annual teaches parents how$500 to stay fita $75 per event person, $100 for couples, foran To purchase ad, sponsor for ticket information, call For moreorinformation call 313-481-1300 and have with their kids. There will be For more information and tickets, call table of 10.fun Advance registration required.

248.871.7489. activities allatages.

(586) 393-8800.

January 6 No ticket for sales eventNo charge.

Kundalini yoga and intro to mantra class Music Together Demonstration Class ‘The Balance of Power: A Throne for Inspiration Yoga Studio The Detroit Public Library Celebrates the an Nelson Mandela African Prince’ Day 624 Livernois, Ferndale 70th Anniversary Lecture Series.

10:00 am 9 -10:15 a.m.

6:30 p.m.museum hours Jefferson Avenue Presbyterian Church Standard 6 p.m.

This event occursAve., weekly on Saturday.

Fellowship Chapel 8625 E. Jefferson Detroit Detroit Institute of Arts Donation: $5, class pass.­Experience the relaxation, peace Detroit Public Library.

7707 W.and Outer Drive 5200 Woodward Ave. Detroit clarityfor that comes from practicing ancient Come a free demonstration classthe and ex- technology of kundalini meditation and gong relaxation.

Stay a while religion representatives, labor, 5201 Woodward The E. Azalia Hackley ColInterfaith perience theyoga, fun Ave. with your child as they sing, ‘The Balance of Power: A Throne for an for free tea and conversation. lection is part of the Library’s Special Collections students and the multicultural community dance and explore in an informal, non-perfor- African Prince’ exhibit at the DIA showcases Department.

This lecture, call titledKimberly “Don Cornelius: will gather to celebrate Nelson Mandela’s For more information at 248.635.3555. mance, relaxed environment. royal African antiquity. Free with museum Riding the Soul Train,” will celebrate the contribu95th birthday. admission tions this iconic figure and his famous television April 2-3 For more information call 313-687-4298. show had on the music industry. This lecture is free Formore moreinformation informationcall call313-833-7900.

(313) 347-2820 For Robert Randall Centennial celebrates and openHayden/Dudley to the public.

December 26Month National Poetry For more more information information,or call 832-0617 Better You at Whole Foods in Detroit December 28 For to (313) purchase tickJuly 24 - 27 For more information call (313) 481- 1397 April 27 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

August 16 - 18 ets call 313-366-5250.

‘Just Speak the Avenue’ 6:00 pm Wayne Stateon University Hustle for History weekly dance lessons July 28 Karmanos Cancer Institute Celebrates Run on the River Whole Foods Market 5:00 pm December 31 Robert (1913-80) and Dudley Randall (1914-2000) June - September The Mack 31st African World Festival CancerH. Survivor Week 3:00 pm Hayden 115 Ave. Detroit Charles Wright Museum of African Registration: 8 a.m., Rivard Plaza.

Pick up free t-shirt and run Second Baptist Church of Detroit celebrates are two ofCommunity Wayne University¹s most famous alumni. Through Livernois Storefront American History R. Kelly New Year’s Eve countdown number at 1340 E. Atwater Street, Detroit their poetry, theyDetroit brought attention to the 11 a.m.

- 11 p.m.

TheEast Karmanos Institute kicks off Can- pastor’s 25th year 19410 Livernois, Detroit Rolling on the River Festival andcity of Detroit The introduction to this four-week series 315 WarrenCancer Ave., Detroit and the accomplishments of AfricanAmerican culture and Opening ceremony: 9:15 a.m., hosted byexamines Ronnie Dahl, cer Survivor Week with a lecture from author Summer Concert Series, Erma Henderson 10:00 pm on holistic health beauty, diet and 2 p.m. Temple history.

InInc. recognition of National Month, WSU will Charleshealth Wrightfor Museum WXYZ-TV Teresa Kilpatrick, “So Youtheir Survived Cancer.”

Just Speak presents “Just Speak on the Park, adjacent to Whittier Park. Poetry The festival Masonic mental a better you.

Get your groove on with weekly hustle Hotel St. Regis honor the Robert Hayden/Dudley Randall withspeak about cancer survivorship and 315 E. Warren Free Kiddie Runs: 9:30 a.m., kids 12, Detroit under She will Avenue, ” youth-centered activities for youngCentennial will highlight local entertainment, some of lessons, 500 Temple St. Detroit taught ‘Point by instructor Thomasenia of View: African American Masters’ several on-campus 2safe andenvi3. A symposium will 5K Run/Walk: 10am (also 1 Mile Walk along the what to expect after treatment ends. people ages 5-18restaurant in aevents secureApril andcommunity the city’s best and For more information callDetroit 734-224-3875 Johnson of Two Left Feet. Free for members, Pastor Kevin M. Turman’s 25th pastoral be held from 10 a.m. to for 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, 2, at the This three day festival will be celebrated once River) ronment.

Middle school andadults. high school stu- April resource information exhibitfive atlessons the Wright Museum Spend New Year’s Eve with R. Kelly at the $7 for non-members. Purchase year will bewith celebrated at an anniversaWSUare Law School’s encouraged Damon J. Keith Center for CivilFor Rights. on the grounds January 9 - 19of the Wright Museum with a list ofa events, visit www.karmanos.

Award a.m. dents especially to participate countdown the King party andceremony: concert 11 again and receive complimentary museum Standard museum hours ry banquet.

Tickets are $50.

The guest performances, poetry, arts and crafts, African org or call (313) 5769288.

All events are inThis this event free program. is free and open to the community. membership, with special guest Doug E. Fresh.

The from the run making your next 12 months Proceeds will help fund the Literacy Program, ‘Girls Night: Musical’ Charles H.and Wright Museum ofat the 10:30 a.m. service will be preacher drumming andThe dance, hundreds of vendors, ethnic andlessons open tofree. all cancer survivors For more concert kicks off at 10 pm onwhich Tuesday, Dec. an opportunity April 5 information email detroioffree hustle provides for adults residing in Wayne African American Bishop History John M. Borders III, senior pastor at foods, and events for all ages, including an expandFor more information call 313-355-3035. their families. trollingontheriver@gmail.com 31, at Masonic Temple, 500 Temple St. near County to increase their 8:00skills, pm competencies and confidence, 315 E. Warren Boston’s Ave. Alfredine Jordan Wiley Scholarship Inc. hosts 11th annual Morningstar Baptist Church. ed Watoto Village for the youngest among us! downtown Detroit. After theleading concert, the independence.

For more information call (313) 494-5800.

City Theatre toward Last year this run raised fundraiser official after party begins inside the Fountain July 27 Free with museum admission: $8, ages 13-61; $5, July 13, 27, 30 2301 Woodward Ave., Detroit $27,000, allowing DCC to hire much needed certified peer For ticketsTickets or more call For more information visit www.thewright.org Ballroom. areinformation $100 totutors. $150.

December 26 - January The Detroit Repertory Theatre 12 ages 3-12; free, under age 3.

Additionally, a grant was secured through The Helen (313) 961-0920 13103 Woodrow Wilson St., Detroit December 28InMarriage “Girls Night: The Musical”and sings the hilarL. Kay Charitable Trust for supplies, computers digital Walkathon For AndofFamily Anti-Dog Fighting Rally a collection African-American and African diaspora For more information call 704-510-0539.

‘Made

by Hand: Detroit’s Ceramic Legacy’ 11 a.m.

August 21 lows of a night out on the ious highs and readers. art on display, see the work of artists such as Henry Ossawa Kwanzaa For more call 248-354-6143 town with the girls. $43.85 per ticket.

August 3 9 a.m. celebration Tanner and Eldzier Cortor.

Noon – 5information pm January 3 Standard Museum Hours Wayne County Youth and Senior Safety Detroit Riverfront Brightmoor Community For more information call 313.494.5800.

10:00 am Detroit Historical Museum Center May 3 For ARISE Detroit!

7th Annual NeighborFairmore information call 800-745-3000.

14451 Burt Road, Detroit Harlem Globetrotters April 12 Redford BranchResource Library Center (MRC), a 5401 Woodward Ave., Detroit hoods Day All Day Event ARISE DeThe Marriage ‘Derby in the D’ 10 - 12 21200 Grand River, Detroit troit!pm invites community organizations 10January a.m.-2 p.m. non-profit Detroit is hosting a series ofChase anti-dog Stomping Out High Step Show and Resource Fair community-based organization, in 7:00 Under the Corps direction of School founder Mary Big hats, bow ties and seersucker suits will jockey attention throughout City of Detroit to particBelle Isle Casino association with other organizations and inDetroit Film Theatre’s 40th for anniversary fighting rallies in Detroit communities The Palace ofthe Auburn Hills Come Celebrate Kwanzaa with Redford Don Bosco Community Hall, 19321 West Chicago, Detroit Perry Stratton, Pewabic Pottery produces at “Derby in the D, ” the inaugural Kentucky Derby-themed ipate by helping to clean up.

Volunteers dividuals, is presenting its 4th Annual Walkaffectedp.m. by this illegal andtiles brutal 6 Championship Drive Branch Library and MAAT Ancient African nationally renowned vessels, andactivity. archiNoon-4 party on May 3 held8:00 in honor Henry Fordmusic Neuroscience are needed.

Enjoy of food, and imathon For Marriage and Family.

Participants pma funofday Auburn Hills History Group.

Arts and crafts beginning tectural for public and private of community S.A.V.Eornamentation T.H.E.M is a collaborative coalition Institute. portant information to keep children and will start on the Rivard Plaza, then take Detroit Institute of Arts For more information, call (734) 253-2053 at 10 am and candle ceremonies later in the installations. is to noaddress cost. Exhibit open stakeholdersThere united healthisdisparities affecting For world more information visitGlobetrotters seniors safe, healthy happy.

5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit The famous Harlem The celebration will take place from 5:30 toand 11 p.m. at the Moduring museum hours.event include Wayneday. youth.normal Partners for the 2014 StateThere Uni- is no cost to attend this event. All www.arisedetroit.org or calltorCity take fan interaction to a new level on their Casino Hotel.

Celebrate the 40th anniversary of the DeagesMoveare welcome. versity College of Nursing, The Better Detroit Youth (313)Fans 592-Rule 1955.

For more information call (313) 224-0614 2014 tour. Cost: $18 to $90starting at $99, troit Film dinner, Theatredancing, with a weekend of classic Visit DetroitHistorical.org more inforTickets, include live and silent ment, AIDS Partnership offor Michigan, Don Bosco Communiat aentertainment special price ($2).

For Sigma more information call Dr. Conja auction, an open barfilms and live by the American mation. ty Center, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Phi Beta For more information call and 313-887-8500.

British pop/rockFor band Fiftyinformation Amp Fuse. call 313-833-7900. at 313-481-1821.

Fraternity, Inc., the UPLIFT Program, communityWright sponsors more and volunteers.

A special hotel room rate at MotorCity Casino Hotel is available.

To request vendor registration forms or for more information, please contact Cynthera McNeill at aq6139@wayne.

For more information, visit henryford.com/derby. edu.

Scan and Enjoy The Michigan Chronicle

Email Your Your Upcoming Upcoming Events Eventsto to events@michronicle.com events@michronicle.com Email Email Your Upcoming Events events@michronicle.com DPS recognizes top suppliers at thirdtoannual 100 Top Supplier Conference

a true partnership and benefit to DPS. Michigan Chronicle presents: • Top Supplier Award: Student Excel-

Detroit Public Schools held its third annual Top 100 Supplier Conference, focusing on a theme of “Bold Innovation for Children.”

OneSight is an organization that provides sustainable access to quality vision care and eyewear. OneSight provides a vision wellness benefit to DPS students through the See to Achieve program. For the past 15 years, students have been provided with eye care and eyewear through temporary Optical Clinics. This service is at no cost to the student. Of the 1,289 students that participated in the spring clinic, 85% needed glasses. They have offered great service, cost savings to DPS parents and overall wellness that benefits the students of DPS.

Scholastic provides the District with a guided reading program which supports a comprehensive reading program by integrating guided instruction, assessment and independent practice into the classroom. Scholastic has shown outstanding growth by working beyond the call of duty to support schools and the roll out of the guided reading program.

The program has provided an innovative approach to learning, which makes the educational experience interesting and enriching for students. Scholastic has been able to identify the District’s needs and implement creative ways to provide immeasurable support.

ACHIEVE!

The event, which highlighted supplier excellence and fiscal responsibility, was the third annual presentation to top suppliers by DPS’ Office of Procurement & Logistics, as well as members of the district’s executive leadership team including Emergency Manager Jack Martin, Chief Financial and Administrative Officer William Aldridge, Superintendent of Academics Karen Ridgeway and Chief Procurement and Logistics Officer Dr. Tracy Joshua.

lence

Company:

DAPCEP

Reason for Nomination:

Detroit Area Pre-College EngineerNEW SEaSON!ingNEW lOOKS! SpEcTacUlaR SaVINGS! Program applies best practices, as

“We value the support of our Top Suppliers during the redesign of our district and its educational programs,” said Dr. Joshua. “We remain committed to our suppliers. Many have partnered with us and brought new ideas and innovation to us while also helping us reduce our costs. It is a journey and many suppliers are traveling with us to deliver exceptional goods and services to support the district providing the highest level of education for all the students that we serve.”

well as teaching and learning strategies to ensure that students participate in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics activities and experiences.

DAPCEP has been active in DPS since 1976 and shown a strong commitment to our students and Detroit’s educational community. They are steadfast in their efforts to support student learning through their In-school and Saturday STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) programs. Their program has made learning interesting and relevant for students.

Wed, april 2 to SUN, april 6

6O% 85% Off 2013 Fall School Choice Guide STOREWIDE

• Top Supplier Award: Innovation & Technology

• Top Supplier Award: Operational Excellence Company: Hercules & Hercules Reason for Nomination:

• Executive Choice Awards

Company: United Auto Workers of America and Ford Motor Company

Reason for Nomination: don’t miss The UAW leads multiple initiatives spectacular throughout the District to support aca-

Hercules & Hercules is a diverse supplier that has been one of the District’s facilities providers for more than 15 years. They are steadfast in ensuring they provide quality goods and services at all times. When DPS has faced financial challenges, Hercules & Hercules continued to provide quality services.

The company has used DPS schools for demonstrations, donated equipment, Wed, april 2 kept fair and consistent market prices, SUN, april and participated at the school and Dis-6 trict level in Academic enrichment programs.

5-Day 400+ SpEcIalS! Schools

demic achievement, safety and a holistic education experience for DPS students.

Company: Sentinel Technologies Inc. This year alone, the UAW is partnering with the American Football Coaches Reason for Nomination: Association’s National Child IdentificaSentinel Technologies Inc. was rection Program and Ford Motor across the ognized for outstanding performance in country to provide fingerprint ID kits to “The relationship that DPS maintains planning and leading the Network Hardto tens of thousands of families. Dewith its supply base is critical to the ware Refresh project for the DPS data troit Public Schools is receiving 50,000 district’s ongoing efforts to re-imagine center and central offices. This projkits for DPS students. This program is how we do business,” said Martin. “We ect involved the supplier working many designed to assist parents and law enare counting on each and every suppli- nights and weekends to ensure that forcement for quick reference in the er to give us not only their best prices, there were no disruptions to the Dis- • Supplier Excellence of the Year event that an emergency occurs. In but more importantly their best quality trict’s critical daily network operations. Award (Performance Driven) addition, the UAW, in partnership with $1o off $2o off work and their best, most innovative The $2.4 million project was completed Ford Motor Company Fund and the DPS all sale & clearance apparel and select all sale & clearance apparel and select Company: Biddergy.com thinking.” on time andbuys) within budget. This E-rate Home items (except specials & super buys) Foundation, donated over $500,000 to Home items (except specials & super ensure that every student in grades K-8 The following are the third annual funded contract has prepared the Dis- Reason for Nomination: trict’s core network and data center for Top Supplier Recognition Awards: In June of 2013, Biddergy.com was would have the opportunity to play in an another decade of technology challeng- awarded business as DPS’s online auc- organized sport and that every DPS ele• Top Supplier Award: Partnership & es. tion service provider.OF Biddergy.com had mentary and middle school could offer YOUR PURCHASE OF $25 OR MORE. YOUR PURCHASE $50 OR MORE. Building Relationships valid 4/2 or 4/3/14. limit one per customer. valid 4/2 or 4/3/14. limit one per abundant experience atcustomer. doing online arts/music programs.

• Top Supplier Award: Unsung Hero Company: Success for Alleveryday Values (edV), doorbusters, deals of the day, furniture, mattresses, floor coverings, Also excludes: Also excludes: at everyday Values (edV), doorbusters, as dealswell of the day, auctions closed schools, as furniture, mattresses, floor Choice Awards rugs, electrics/electronics, cosmetics/fragrances, Company: athletic shoes for him, her & kids, dallas cowboys of Jewish coverings, rugs, electrics/electronics, cosmetics/fragrances, athletic shoes for him, her•& Executive kids, dallas cowboys National Council experience surplus warehouses. merchandise, gift cards, jewelry trunk shows, New era, Nike on Field, previous purchases, special orders, merchandise, gift cards, with jewelry trunk shows, New era, Nike on Field, previous purchases, special orders, Reason for Nomination: Women Company: General Motors Corporation selected licensed depts., special purchases, services, macys.com. cannot be combined with any savings selected depts., special purchases, services, macys.com. be combined with any savings The licensed company was nominated andcannot givpass/coupon, discount or credit offer, to except opening a new Macy’s account. dollar savings are allocated as pass/coupon, extra discount or credit offer, except opening a new Macy’s account. dollar savings are allocated as Success for All hasextra helped DPS Nomination: en the Excellence of onthe Year Award notyou forfeit discounts off each eligible item, as shown on receipt. Reason When you returnfor an item, you forfeit the savings allocated discounts off each eligible item, as shown receipt.

When you return an item, the savings allocated Reason for Nomination: achieve openness, creativity, and to that item. This coupon agility has no cash value and may not be redeemed for cash, used to purchase gift cards or toonly that item.

This coupon has cash valueexperience, and may not be redeemed cash, used to purchase gift cards or because ofnotheir butfor beThe National Council of Jewish Womapplied as payment credit to term your account. applied as payment or credit to your account. Purchase must be $50 or more, exclusive of tax and delivery fees.Motors Corporation has been General resiliency by developing a orlong vi-Purchase must be $25 or more, exclusive of tax and delivery fees. cause of a commitment to a “turn-key” sion with trust among partners. Success en has been steadfast in their support approach and documented processes to a great supporter and partner of Detroit Coleman for All is a whole-school reform strategy of the Children at Detroit’s †exclusions apply; see savings supportpasses. their solutions. They are work- Public Schools for many years. Through rolled out in select DPS schools, that Young Elementary School. The organi- ing tirelessly to ensure that the DPS their donations to the DPS Foundation, free ShippiNg at has macyS.com With $99 oNliNe pUrchaSe. No promo code Needed; exclUSioNS apply. zation been volunteering for eight features research proven tools, coopersurplus auctions are a success. Always they have raised over a quarter of a milative learning, and collaborative leader- years. They are faithfully in the build- looking to improve their process, they lion dollars for Detroit Public Schools ing the third Thursday of every month. through various fundraising efforts, inship for continuous improvement.

They read to students each classroom, have begun assisting DPS with recomIn the district’s most recent bench- have donated countless books for use mending reserves to consider based on cluding an auction for the 2011 Chevmarks, there has been a high increase in schools, and donated books for stu- their knowledge and research. None of rolet VOLT. In addition, the district in reading performance in elementary dents to take home. Principal Melissa this research work, which is consider- received the necessary funds from the students. The program has provided a Scott said, “We asked them to help orga- able, is specifically stated in the con- corporation to enable the Cass Tech positive impact on climate and culture nize the library and they built us a new tract, but they are demonstrating that Band to perform in Washington D.C. in the buildings, as well as an increase one in conjunction with Detroit Pistons they are committed to continuous im- Dan Akerson personally made donain student engagement. SFA provided and Farm Bureau!” They have donated provement and bringing real value to tions through the Dan Akerson’s Blue Earth Foundation and the GM Employee alllowest curriculum no cost to over prices ofmaterials the seasonat in effect 4/2-4/6/2014, except noted. lowestand price(s)” refers to Macy’stheir springcustomers. season february 1 through april 30, 2014. prices may be lowered as part of a clearance.

200aspairs of“our shoes numerous Foundation to help support several DPS the District during the implementation items clothing year.

OPEN A MACY’S ACCOUNT FOR EXTRA 20% SAVINGS THE of FIRST 2 DAYS, UPthis TO $100, WITH MORE REWARDS TO •COME. credit card Award: is available subject to credit approval; account savings valid the day your account opened TopMacy’s Supplier Academic Ex- newinitiatives, including the ispartnership of the program, and each school proand the next day; at excludes services, selected licensed departments, gift cards, restaurants, gourmet food & wine. The new account savings are limited to a total of $100; application must qualify for immediate approval to receive extra savings; cellence with the Morning Side Community and not eligible. vided freeemployees training and support during • Top Supplier Award: Professional other suppliers and the Lear CorporaServices Excellence Award Company: Scholastic the N4020178A.indd first year1 of program implementa1:02PreparaPM tion’s support of the J. E.3/26/14 Clark tion. SFA has also provided funding sup- Company: OneSight Reason for Nomination: tory Academy School. port for district staff. SFA has exhibited Reason for Nomination:

Complete District plus, extra savings wednesday & thursday! Listing

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Look out for the fall edition of ACHIEVE! August 7, 2013 For advertising and sponsorship opportunities call 313.963.5522

HIRAM E. JACKSON Publisher JACKIE BERG Chief Marketing Officer

A Real Times Newspaper 479 Ledyard – Detroit, MI 48201

(313) 963-5522 Fax 963-8788 e-mail:chronicle4@aol.com April 2-8, 2014

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BANKOLE THOMPSON Senior Editor RIAN BARNHILL Managing Editor SAMUEL LOGAN Publisher 1933-2011 JOHN H. SENGSTACKE Chairman-Emeritus 1912-1997 LONGWORTH M. QUINN Publisher-Emeritus 1909-1989

How conservative politicians are targeting the courts

By Billy Corriher Conservative governors and legislators across America are angry at the third branch of government. Some of these lawmakers are pushing legislation that could throw judges off the bench, while others are pushing to limit judicial authority.

In one state, a governor unilaterally removed a justice of the state supreme court. Another Republican governor has publicly vowed to defy a ruling in a pending case if he does not like the outcome.

Many of these proposals violate the separation of powers principles in their respective state constitutions. But some of these politicians want to amend their state constitutions to give the executive and legislative branches exclusive control over judicial appointments.

This conservative backlash is a response to court rulings that require the legislatures to spend more money on education or to distribute those funds more equally. These proposals send a message—a warning to judges that legislators have the means to punish courts that rule against the state.

These threats to judicial independence emerged in Kansas, for example, just before the state supreme court ruled in favor of poor school districts seeking to restore hundreds of millions of dollars in funding that legislators had recently eliminated. On March 7, 2014, the court ruled the education-funding system unconstitutional and gave the legislature until July to fix the deficiencies.

Republicans had warned the justices not to order a specific increase in funding. Gov. Sam Brownback (R) and Senate President Susan Wagle (R) recently said that such a ruling “could push lawmakers toward trying a constitutional amendment to change the way justices are selected,” according to The Wichita Eagle. These politicians brazenly issued explicit threats to the independence of the Kansas Supreme Court.

This backlash comes as more courts are taking a stand to enforce constitutional provisions requiring states to provide an adequate education for all students, not just those in districts with more valuable property and more property tax revenue. The increasing focus on measurable results—in the form of student testing—in education has changed the nature of the judiciary’s role in education funding.

“The states have promulgated content standards, assessment systems— they’ve promulgated lots of accountability,” said David Sciarra of the Education Law Center.

“But what the states haven’t done is determine the cost of delivering standards-based education to all kids.”

With measurable goals and testing data, courts can more easily determine whether a school system is achieving its goal of educating students.

William Koski of the Youth and Education Law Project said the courts “are playing a proper role in not establishing

what kids should know and be able to do, but holding the legislature accountable to what it says kids should do.”

These cases often stem from litigation that began decades ago. In some states the respective high courts had recently deemed the education-funding systems constitutional. But when the 2007–2009 recession led to falling tax revenues, many legislators responded by cutting money for education. These cuts led the New Jersey and Kansas high courts to restore judicial oversight of school financing.

These state supreme courts are the only institutions standing in the way of conservative legislators’ austerity agenda for education. But if these legislators get their way, state supreme courts will not serve this role. Education would be left to the whims of legislators who might not care about students in districts with fewer resources.

If advocates for better education want courts to order legislators to fix broken schools, they must act to protect judicial independence and ensure that courts can enforce constitutional mandates without fear of retaliation.

These lawsuits to enforce constitutional education mandates have helped to equalize the funding for schools with students who are often from groups that historically faced discrimination in education.

For example, a group of Alaskan school districts and students sued the state in 2004, alleging that the legislature had failed to satisfy its constitutional obligation to provide an adequate education. The plaintiffs were rural districts, most of whose students were Native Alaskan.

The plaintiffs emphasized the achievement gaps that suggested Native Alaskan students and poorer children were not meeting the state’s educational goals. In the 2004-05 school year, only 43 percent of Native Alaskan 10th graders were proficient in reading, compared to 82 percent of white students. Given the importance of early childhood education to future success, an unfair educational system is a barrier to social mobility.

While the state of Alaska had formally abolished its separate school system for Native Alaskan students, the achievement gap suggested that not much had changed. One of the plaintiff districts, Bering Strait School District, had a student body composed entirely of Native Alaskan children, 80 percent of whom were “limited English proficient.”

Fewer than half of the district’s students were proficient in language arts, and only 37 percent were proficient in math. One superintendent told the court, “It would take about 69 years … for all children in the district to be proficient at its current rate of improvement.”

The plaintiffs warned that “even if districts are able to maintain the current rate of improvement, generations of children will be lost.”

Beyoncé is not Bill O’Reilly’s issue

By Michael Cottman Bill O’Reilly is obsessed with criticizing Beyonce — for all the wrong reasons.

And it’s getting old.

O’Reilly, the conservative Fox News commentator, has unleashed a continuing campaign against Beyoncé for her “raunchy” videos that O’Reilly says young girls – many of whom are Beyoncé’s fans — should not watch.

uses one controversial topic to denigrate African Americans and turns most discussions about American culture into a monologue about race, and Black folks in particular.

“Right now in the African-American community 72 percent of babies are born out wedlock,” O’Reilly told Letterman. “Back when Motown was hot, it was 10 or 12 percent. So what we’re seeing then is a deleterious effect on American society. And all I’m saying to somebody like Beyoncé is, ‘Look, these girls love you. They idolize you. You have all the money you need. You are very talented. Do some uplifting stuff.”

He has criticized Beyoncé on his Fox News program; he has blasted her to Russell Simmons, and most recently, O’Reilly appeared on “The Late Show with David Letterman” to beat up on Beyoncé some more.

Michael Cottman What’s the problem? O’Reilly says Beyoncé’s “Drunk in Love” song and video are over-the-top vulgar and too crude for American culture.

“She puts out a new album with a video that glorifies having sex in the back of a limousine. Teenage girls look up to Beyoncé, particularly girls of color,” O’Reilly told Simmons. “Why on earth would this woman do that? Why would she do it when she knows the devastation that unwanted pregnancies…and fractured families. Why would Beyoncé do that?”

But let’s be clear: O’Reilly doesn’t care about the future of young Black girls in America. He doesn’t care about uplifting a generation of Black youth.

O’Reilly does what O’Reilly does — he

O’Reilly argued that Beyoncé influences girls “who don’t have responsible parents.”

How does O’Reilly know these parents are not responsible? And is he saying that Beyoncé’s videos are responsible for children born out of wedlock?

These are wild, racially-charged comments with no basis in fact and another attempt by O’Reilly to disparage African Americans.

But I’ve seen the video and heard “Drunk in Love” and it is raunchy, no question about it. There’s no doubt that too many young Black girls who idolize Beyoncé don’t need to watch that video. It sends a bad message. I know Black parents who were cringing watching Beyoncé gyrate on stage during last month’s Grammy Awards performance.

What do political campaigns mean in 2014?

By Matt Towery

that you don’t have cancer while a huge tumor is plainly in sight.

For those who follow politicians, political pundits and the media, it seems as we head into the more intense portion of this election year, that a few aspects of the “game” we call politics and the coverage of it be exposed. So here is the truth about politics in 2014 and how it is reported, analyzed, twisted, contorted and created.

Either the doctor is incompetent or just wants the patient to keep following his advice until it’s too late and the situation is terminal. And as for the “medical tools” of partisan pollsters, consider the fact that most of these D.C. bandits continue to provide candidates and cause poll results with 50 or 60 questions attached. In this day and time only the loneliest of lumberjacks or forest rangers stuck in some sky-high observation post would take the time to answer a 60-question survey.

Most people don’t know who various politicians are and don’t care until just weeks before an election. It must be hard for all of the big shots in D.C. who strut about like bantam roosters to face the reality that the average person in America has better things to do than sit at home and focus on what their leaders in Washington, or even at the local state capital, do or say.

It used to be a big deal to be a congressman or U.S. Senator, but in today’s world, only older voters consider a position in elected office to be one of honor.

Unless someone is a political junkie or part of a chamber of commerce, people just don’t focus on politicians.

Most campaigns are run either by young political operatives who luck into a victory or by consultants who handle a multitude of races and try to pretend that they understand the political flavor and opinions of every area of the nation.

They don’t, and consequentially most candidates run silly TV ads and give more of the money they raise to consultants and pollsters than they ever should.

While on the subject of polls, most pollsters who work for candidates or parties are just plain lousy. They give their clients numbers that they want to hear, which really does no favor to their candidate or cause. It’s sort of like hiring a doctor to x-ray you and tell you

And these pollsters now claim that a good percentage of their surveys are answered by folks with cellphones. That’s a farce. When have you noticed a cellphone user intently listening to their phone and carefully answering 60 or so questions? It just doesn’t happen, or if it does, the respondent is likely a kook.

Most politicians, Republican or Democrat, are full of it and so obsessed with themselves and their little world of fellow powerbrokers that they could care less what you think. Cynical? Oh, yes.

True? Absolutely. It’s really the nature of the beast. Most have aides who serve as gatekeepers who carefully make sure their leader only meets with the people he or she wants them to meet with.

Hence they slowly lose touch with the real world.

Even pundits and writers are, to some degree “full of it.” And finally, yes, most of the media is still liberal. But as liberal as they might be, they don’t like being made a fool of.

Hence, the increasingly tense relationship between the press and the Obama White House, an administration that has put a whole new meaning to the concept of “managed news.”

My three daughters deserve to be treated equally as women

By Rudy Hobbs As the father of three young daughters, when it comes to women’s rights, talk is cheap – for me, it’s personal.

tions. In fact, of the nearly $100,000 I raised for Democratic candidates across the state between 2010 and 2012, more than 60 percent of that went to help female candidates.

In Detroit, I helped the campaign of a I refuse to explain to my three daughters that when they grow up they will legislator who had made a career fighthave to purchase more health insurance ing substance abuse in the community than men, just to get basic care. That and empowering others. She was facing they will be paid 77 cents for every dol- a tough race after re-districting, in areas lar earned by men for the same work. she had never represented before. With That their health decisions will be made her record and service, she deserved to by politicians, instead of by them and be re-elected. And she now serves in the Michigan Legislature. their doctors. Or, that they will be denied leadership In the Muskegon area, I roles they deserve, simply helped a former math teachbecause they are women. er who was running for office It is long past time we and fighting against cuts to stop paying lip service to public education. She dethese issues and time to truserved to be elected. I am ly make history in the fight proud to say she is now servfor equality. ing her first term in the Michigan Legislature.

As a man, I have looked into my daughters’ impres In the Flint area, I camsionable eyes and implored paigned hard for a former them to never allow themmember of Michigan’s Womselves to be unjustly treated en’s Commission who was because of their gender. But Rudy Hobbs also a champion of early I’ve also explained that they childhood education.

We shouldn’t expect to be promoted or oth- needed her focus and expertise in the erwise rewarded simply because of it. I Legislature. She deserved to be elected. believe women have the right to expect She won, and is now a freshman memand elect candidates that are willing to ber of the Michigan House of Represenfight for their rights as well as their in- tatives. And in Grand Rapids, a local terests. Like their male counterparts, advocate for senior citizens and school women should vote for candidates who funding was running in a very tough have a track record of advocating for and district. I worked hard to defeat her Readvancing issues, regardless of whether publican opponent. She deserved to be that candidate is a man or a woman. elected. She won and I am now proud to I have always put my money where serve with her. my mouth is. As a young professionIn all, I have raised money and acal on a teacher’s salary, I donated $10 tively campaigned for more than women and $20 and campaigned door-to-door candidates who are currently serving for women candidates who were best in elected office throughout this region qualified to serve in elected positions. and state.

In 2006, I directed the Oakland County But I didn’t support these women Democratic Coordinated Campaign that was integral to electing Michigan’s first simply because they are women. I supfemale governor, Jennifer Granholm ported them because they were dynamic and Michigan’s first female U.S. senator, and energetic leaders who were passionDebbie Stabenow. That year, our cam- ate and qualified to serve. I have never paign helped elected more than a doz- supported a candidate simply because en women to public office. Together, we they looked like me. I need to know began the momentum that shifted the they will be effective. I need to know once Republican stronghold of Oakland they will lead on issues I care about. I County into what is now a Democrat- need to know they will serve with integrity and passion. ic-leaning Oakland County.

As a dad, there is nothing more funIn 2010, after winning my own tough Primary Election for the Michigan House damental to me than my daughters’ fuof Representatives, I began raising mon- tures. Seeing their faces in my mind’s ey and knocking doors for Democratic eye are the only reminders I need to female candidates across this state that keep fighting for their equal treatment were each facing tough General Elec- under the law.

community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

April 2-8, 2014 Page B-5

Recent Wayne Law graduate already making an impact in community DETROIT – Robert Thomas, a December graduate of Wayne State University Law School, says his business law studies prepared him to lead in the community – something he got a head start on while still a law student.

on which he serves as vice chairman.

“I consider it my civic duty to give back to the city I live in,” Thomas said.

“I involved myself in municipal government as a volunteer when I worked as an engineer in Virginia, too. I bring that experience to the Board of Zoning Appeals, and I also bring in some legal teachings of (Wayne Law) Professor John Mogk, having taken extra interest in courses such as property and land use. It’s great to be a part of the rebuilding process of the city I love and that I was born and raised in.”

Thomas grew up in multiple foster homes in Detroit as a ward of the state.

Today, he serves as leader of Foster Care Alumni of America, Michigan chapter, an advocacy group he founded during his second year at Wayne Law. He serves on the Foster Care Review Board administered by the State Court Administrative Office of the Michigan Supreme Court. He also became a member of the Detroit Board of Zoning Appeals while a law student.

Before he decided to go to law school, Thomas earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a master’s degree in industrial technology for manufacturing systems from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. He went to work as a mechanical engineer, as a patent examiner with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and then as a senior mechanical engineer and project manager with Alion Science and Technology.

He’s pursuing a 10-month weekend fellowship in Michigan Political Leadership Program’s Institute for Public Policy and Social Research at Michigan State University and studying to take the patent bar exam in May and the state bar exam in July.

“Wayne Law opened doors and gave me opportunities to lead,” said Thomas, who lives in Detroit. “I honed a lot of leadership skills while at Wayne Law, especially public speaking.”

He particularly enjoyed his experience with the Patent Procurement Law Clinic through Wayne Law’s Program for Entrepreneurship and Business Law. “The patent clinic was a great opportunity to address patent law from the patent prosecution side,” Thomas said.

“The services are all pro bono. The pat-

Thomas entered the foster care system at age 6.

Robert Thomas ent clients are only responsible for paying the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office fees associated with filing and prosecuting the patent applications, as well as formal patent drawings, if needed. Already having experience at the patent office gave me a little insight on what to expect while drafting a patent application, but the clinic experience was invaluable for me as I pursue a career in the intellectual property field. Wayne Law has a plethora of law courses surrounding intellectual property, including several courses strictly regarding patent laws.”

When he came back to Detroit to go to law school, he decided to get involved in the community. One of the first things he did was to become a member of the Detroit Board of Zoning Appeals,

year of law studies, I assembled a great number of the foster care alumni in Michigan who were known as advocates of wards in care,” he said. “This was not an easy task, but I narrowed down a set of like-minded individuals into a group.

We started the Foster Care Alumni of America, Michigan chapter, focusing our issues on what we noticed should change. Starting and leading this organization, coupled with already serving as president of the Black Law Students Association and chair of the Young and Powerful Group for Obama proved to be even more challenging.”

Today, Foster Care Alumni of America in Michigan has more than 50 members.

“I experienced a multitude of placements in foster care homes and group homes,” he said. “At the age of 15, I was involved in a mentoring program under the Detroit Urban League. It was there I became part of a pilot independent living program where I was paired with a roommate in an apartment near my high school (Detroit Northwestern).”

“This past summer, during my third year of law school, we held our first legislative hearing on foster care at Wayne Law,” Thomas said. “Over 60 directors and heads of agencies, including the director of the Department of Human Services, and state legislators lent an ear to hear the voices of young adults and alumni of the foster care system.”

He worked three different jobs to cover his rent and expenses while going to high school and playing football. When his roommate defaulted on the rent, Thomas ended up homeless.

Another such hearing took place recently under Thomas’ guidance. The ParkWest Foundation and Wayne State University School of Social Work were partners in the venture.

“A local community activist stood up and took me in to finish my last year of high school,” Thomas said. “During my high school years, if I was not working, I kept myself busy by staying actively involved in sports and after-school programs. These programs exposed me to self-empowerment, responsibility, different cultures and ideas, and etiquette – things I needed to know to survive and move past my circumstances. They taught me I could do anything I wanted to. I embraced the idea and now I’m empowering others to do the same.”

“Currently, we are drafting legislation to introduce a Foster Care Bill of Rights to the state legislators,” Thomas said.

One thing Thomas noticed about the foster care system was how few of its “alumni” like him were involved in creating its policies.

“To remedy this, during my second

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He hopes he’ll soon be working as an intellectual property practitioner helping entrepreneurs and inventors get a good start. And he’s in the process of starting a mentor program for foster youth, particularly boys.

“I put an emphasis on mentorship, which I have recognized is one of the reasons I made it out of my situation,” Thomas said. “Others reached out to me, so, in turn, I’ve done the same. I currently mentor high school, college-age and middle school boys, including my 15-year-old nephew, who I care for full time. Mentorship and advocacy is a part of my life.”

community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Detroit Public Schools Foundation continues to award grants to support programs The Detroit Public Schools Foundation is pleased to have concluded its 2014 spring award cycle benefiting Detroit Public Schools.

More than $97,100.00 has been awarded in this cycle for the following programs and projects: Renaissance High School, one laptop cart with 30 computers; Durfee Elementary, 30 Nook Readers for the library; Schulze Elementary, one tech cart with 30 tablets Office of Guidance and Counseling, purchase of Career Cruising software Motor City Lyric Opera Co., contribution toward anti-bullying opera; DIA, annual student art exhibition at museum; Detroit School of the Arts, one week dance intensive.

Michigan Opera Theater, one week dance intensive at Cass Tech Office of Social Studies; professional development program for teachers Paul Robeson/ Malcolm X Academy, Girl Power mentoring program See to Achieve, vision screening event Formed in 2002, and becoming operational in 2009, the Detroit Public Schools Foundation established the systems that are essential for effective stewardship of the dollars

received and continues to refine its processes to strengthen its ability to connect to people and organizations. From its inception the Foundation has awarded $4,320,477 in support of Detroit Public Schools’ programs, projects and special events that directly impact students.

Price, President, Detroit Public Schools Foundation.

The Foundation influences more than 49,000 students in the District and supports numerous professional development activities for classroom teachers.

The Detroit Public Schools Foundation’s mission is to raise, manage and steward funds and other resources to support value-added programs.

“We are excited about the recent awards and the programs we know will continue to benefit the education and future of Detroit Public Schools students,” said Dr. Glenda

The foundation has three award cycles, the summer and fall cycle in May, the winter cycle in October and the spring cycle in January. Schools are encouraged to apply by visiting detroitpsfoundation.org.

Also, activities for the benefit of the Detroit Public Schools, DPS-authorized charter schools, DPS schools placed in the Education Achievement Authority and their respective students.

April 2-8, 2014 Page B-6

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April 2-8, 2014

michiganchronicle.com

Hot Sstillam’s sizzles with

style after 93 years

By Donald James For more than nine decades, Hot Sam’s in downtown Detroit has maintained a reputation for offering the best and latest in men’s fashions.

The store first opened on Brush St. near Gratiot Ave., before moving in 2004 to its present downtown site at 127 Monroe St. in the Compuware building.

The legendary Hot Sam’s remains downtown Detroit’s oldest men’s fashion store, and is believed to be the oldest store of its kind in Michigan.

The store is said to have gotten its name after original owner, Sam Freedman, sold quality clothes Tony Stovall at such a low, hot price, many customers jokingly said the fashionable clothing must be stolen. From this the name Hot Sam’s Quality Clothes was born.

Through the years, Hot Sam’s has stood the test of time as men from near and far have experienced the trendsetting styles carried by the store, including ties, dress shirts, hats, caps, pants, overcoats, and European-designed suits. Hot Sam’s long list of customers has included church goers, pastors, doctors, judges, attorneys, politicians, auto plant workers, pro athletes, musicians and everyday men, all of whom were seeking the best in fashionable clothing and accessories.

According to Tony Stovall, co-owner, there’s no secret as to why the store has been successful for so long.

He points to a loyal customer base, word-of-mouth, excellent service and stylish clothes.

“We go back to the old-school where the customer is king,” said Stovall. “Therefore, we pride ourselves in giving top-notch customer service. We are also proud of our in-house tailoring shop operated by Cena, who has been with us for about 20 years. She’s the best tailor in the business.”

Few people know the history and dynamics of Hot Sam’s, or the down-

town business climate better than Stovall. He has been a main fixture at the store for 40 years. Put another way, Stovall started at Hot Sam’s the same year (1974) Coleman A. Young was sworn in as Detroit’s first Black mayor.

“When I started here, I was young and brash, but I had courage and learned how to sell,” recalled Stovall.

“I learned so much and was so successful at selling that every time I told the owners that I was leaving, they would offer me a raise to stay.”

In 1994, Stovall teamed with Cliff G. Green to create a formable business partnerCliff G. Green ship to buy Hot Sam’s.

Thus, their purchase of Hot Sam’s made the men owners of the largest African-American men’s fashion store in the region.

Stovall, a native Detroiter, always wanted to be an entrepreneur. In his senior year at Southeastern High School, he was voted Best Dressed Senior. His flair for fashions prompted him to apply for a job at Hot Sam’s, after attending Detroit Institute of Technology where he studied electrical engineering. After he was hired, Stovall quickly elevated to become the store’s No. 1 salesman, producer and buyer.

Green, who is also a native Detroiter, graduated from Northeastern High School, where he learned the sewing, tailoring and fashion designing. Like Stovall, Green was an impeccable dresser in high school. He ultimately went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in business with a minor in human resources from the University of De-

Tony Stovall “suits up” Robert Jones, AT&T executive. troit. He soon began working at J.L. Hudson’s, which at the time, was one of the nation’s largest and most prestigious department stores. During his six-year stint at Hudson’s, Green excelled in such positions as department manager, buyer and assistant personnel director.

While Stovall and Green admit there have been ups and downs since buying the legendary store, they agree that there have been far more ups. Both men are thankful for the store’s clientele.

“We want to continue to succeed in this business because we are the next level in men’s fashions. Hot Sam’s is here for the long run.”

“We appreciate all of the customers that have patronized Hot Sam’s over the years,” said Green.

“We strive every day to be the place of choice for customers to shop when in search of the best in men’s clothing and accessories.”

As the landscape of downtown continues to evolve with new businesses opening and more companies bringing employees downtown, Stovall is excited by what he sees.

“I remember how exciting it was for people to come down-

town and shop many years ago,” said Stovall, who also is president of the Detroit Black Chamber of Commerce, whose mission is to empower the growth and sustainability of Blackowned businesses in the region.

“There were Black people, White people, all shopping together at the many stores on every street downtown. However, thanks to people like Dan Gilbert, Peter Karmanos, Mike Illitch and others who have invested in downtown, I believe downtown is on its way back to those days of excitement. I know Hot Sam’s will be here, because our motto is, ‘We never left… we never will.’”

Green agrees: “As an African-American owned store, we are proud to be a part of the growing downtown business community. We want to continue to succeed in this because we are the next level in men’s fashions. Hot Sam’s is here for the long run.”

The success of Hot Sam’s goes far beyond just selling fashionable clothes. Both men said that it’s important to reach out to help empower the community in any way possible.

“I love to talk with young people in the community” said Stovall. “I love telling them to continue to dream because they can be anything they want to be if they really put their minds to it. I always encourage African-American males, in particular, to keep on growing, keep trying and never give up.”

Alpha Phi Alpha Gamma Lambda Chapter partners with Jackets For Jobs to support President Obama’s initiative Detroit area men seeking employment to benefit from suits donated

Barack Obama and is one of the most prolific initiatives of his administration. The MBK initiative is striving for a collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach to build ladders of opportunity and unlock the full potential of boys and young men of color.

BlackNews.com — Alison Vaughn, founder/CEO of Jackets for Jobs, proudly partnered with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Gamma Lambda Chapter, at a clothing drive held in honor of her work helping men and women in their quest to gain employment. The event was held on March 8 at the Alpha House on Detroit’s west side during Women’s Day Month.

In the U.S., Women’s History Month is an annual declared month worldwide that highlights the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society. Primarily, the donations received were men’s suits to support JFJ men’s division. The APA, a 107 year-old organization, continues to carry out its mission to develop leaders, promote brotherhood and academic excellence, while providing ser-

From left: Kamau C. Marable, Alison Vaughn, founder of Jackets for Jobs, Judge Craig Strong and Burke Gaddis, president of Alpha Phi Alpha, Gamma Lambda Chapter. vice and advocacy for the community.

JFJ, now in its 14th year, a nationally recognized non-profit organization based in Detroit, maintains its mission providing career skills training, employment etiquette and profession-

al clothes it receives from a number of supporters throughout the nation to provide men and women with the assistance they may need to enter or re-enter the work force.

“My Brother’s Keeper” was recently launched by President

He notes by the time young men of color hit fourth grade, 86 percent of African-American boys and 82 percent Hispanic boys are reading below proficiency levels compared to 54 percent of White fourth graders reading below proficiency levels. Both are more than six times more likely to be victims of murder than their White peers and account for nearly half of the country’s murder victims each year.

JFJ and APA have long been doing the work in the Detroit area that benefit men, women and kids facing tough circumstances and fully embrace the MBK concept. JFJ was brought into being from a desire to help families transition from welfare

to employment.

“President Obama’s approach in targeting support for young men of color is what we have wanted for quite some time. It takes a village and a nation with the adequate tools to affect the masses, cut off the pipeline to prison and build strong, productive families,” Vaughn said. “It begins and ends with our men, and I am honored to work with the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity.”

The APA, with more than 700 active chapters sprinkled over the globe, embraces President Obama’s idea of creating opportunities for boys and young men of color. The more society as a whole participates in solving issues that plague our youth, the more sustainable the nation. We have been observing the work of Ms. Vaughn for several years and wanted to support her efforts to be of service to others,” said APA Detroit president Burke Gaddis.

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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

April 2-8, 2014

Page C-2

People On The MOVE Rev. V. Lonnie Peek, Jr,has been elected to serve as vice chair of the Belle Isle Advisory Committee. This committee serves as advisors to the Department of Natural Resources, which is the department that runs all of the state parks. Belle Isle is now a state park. Rev. Peek was a appointed by Governor Snyder to serve on this seven member committee. If there are any questions or concerns regarding Belle Isle, he can be reached at 313-874-0043.

Specs Howard is offering $125,000 in scholarships to Michigan workers Procurement Director Ron Evans with Airport Authority CEO Thomas Naughton

Detroit Metropolitan Airport honored Four awards captured by the management team at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) and Willow Run Airport (YIP) were presented to the Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA) Board at its meeting Thursday.

The Airport Authority’s Procurement Department was honored as 2013 Entity of the Year by Michigan Public Purchasing Officers Association (MPPOA). The award recognizes an entity for work or innovations in public purchasing, involvement with the community and contributions to MPPOA and the purchasing profession.

Michigan Concrete Association’s Director of Engineering for SE Michigan, Kerry Sutton, P.E., presented two Awards of Excellence to the Airport Authority. One was for the reconstruction and relocation of two DTW service roads and the second for the reconstruction of the northern portion of Runway 4R-22L also at DTW. Finally, a Merit Award for Engineering from the American Council of Engineering Companies acknowledged the complex engineering work that went into DTW’s Force Main project. The project allows WCAA to discharge waste water to two separate sewerage treatment plants.

This project had previously won an Environmental Achievement Award from Airports Council International-North America.

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“Our goal has never been to capture awards for their own sake,” said WCAA CEO Thomas Naughton. “Our mission is to operate safe and efficient airports.

Awards aside, this team of Airport Authority employees makes me proud every day.”

Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) welcomed more than 32 million passengers in 2012 and is one of the world’s leading air transportation hubs. With service from 13 scheduled passenger airlines, Michigan’s largest airport offers more than 1,200 flights per day to and from nearly 150 non-stop destinations on four continents. In 2010, DTW ranked highest in overall customer satisfaction among large airports in the J.D. Power and Associates North America Airport Satisfaction Study.

With two award-winning passenger terminals, six jet runways, and an onsite AAA Four-Diamond Westin Hotel, DTW is among the world’s most efficient, customer friendly and operationally capable airports in North America.

DTW is operated by Wayne County Airport Authority, which also operates nearby Willow Run Airport, an important corporate, cargo and general aviation facility. The Airport Authority is entirely self-sustaining and does not receive tax dollars to support airport operations.

Visit www.metroairport.com for more information.

Specs Howard School of Media Arts, a Michigan owned and operated school is making $125, 000 dollars in scholarships available to individuals seeking training in technology driven courses including Broadcast Media Arts, Graphic Design and Digital Media Arts. The overwhelming success of last year’s scholarship program has caused Specs Howard to decide to make their scholarship program a permanent part of the school.

With most metro Detroit businesses looking to enhance and develop the technical skillset of their current employees, Specs Howard School of Media Arts wants to assist these Michigan owned and operated businesses by offering scholarships in the amount of $5,000 per award towards tuition for any Specs Howard program. This scholarship program was created to assist individual employers and their employees and at the same time continue to develop the strength of the Michigan workforce.

“Educating our students is of paramount importance and Specs

Howard is thrilled to help our student’s transition into the ever changing digital world,” President Lisa Zahodne said. “Training will be in all areas including web creation and design, digital cinematography, and post production.” Today, many companies find it necessary to farm out certain areas of their business to third party vendors because their employees simply don’t have the necessary knowledge. Now, employers will have an opportunity to train their own staff so that the business can be kept “in house.” By employees upping their skill sets, employers will then be able to move with expediency on day-to-day business, thus creating a winning formula for all.

Employees must complete and submit an application as well as a letter of request stating why they feel they are qualified for the scholarship and how it will impact their future.

They must also submit a letter of recommendation from their Employer stating how the training will benefit the organization.

Applications are available online at www.specshoward.edu/mibusiness.

Candidates will be select-

ed based on the letters of recommendation and all candidates will need to meet the standard entrance requirements.

Scholarships will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis and the opportunity will end when all are awarded.

“Specs Howard interacts with Michigan employers everyday. We see many companies struggling with budget reductions, and unfortunately employee training is one of the first cuts.

We wanted to find a way to help the community we have been part of for over 44 years. Technology is changing at such a rapid pace, employees need training to stay relevant and employers need trained employees to stay competitive. Virtually any Michigan company with a web presence could benefit from a Specs Howard trained employee. With the Specs Howard Michigan Business Scholarship, we are making video and web design training more accessible to companies located in Michigan. Anything we can do to help Michigan succeed helps all of us,” said Specs Howard President, Lisa Zahodne.

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With a total of up to 330 units, the Griswold (above) and Statler City projects represent the first new residential construction downtown in more than 20 years.

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Detroit Downtown Development Authority gives preliminary approval to two residential projects The Detroit Downtown Development Authority (DDA) has authorized Detroit Economic Growth Corp. (DEGC) to negotiate development agreements with two firms for two separate projects to build apartment housing downtown. The Roxbury Group earned preliminary approval for the Griswold, an 80-apartment development that would be built directly on top of the parking garage at 150 Michigan Ave., next to the Westin Book Cadillac Hotel. Village Green Holding, LLC earned preliminary approval for Statler City, a 200-250 apartment unit that would be built at Washington Blvd. and Park Ave., directly across from Grand Circus Park.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, who also serves as the chair of the DDA, said, “It’s great news that there is strong enough demand to build another 300 or more residential units in our downtown core. This is more evidence that a growing number of people are excited about living in Detroit because they are seeing good things happening.” The idea for

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the Griswold was first Trolley Plaza as Detroit facebook.com/michiganchronicle proposed as a condomini- City Apartments and the um development in 2007. former Millender Center When the housing market Apartments as Renaiscollapsed, the project was sance City Apartments. cancelled.

It is planning to invest Under the new development agreement, a five-story structure would be built on top of the deck at an estimated cost of $22 million. The 80 housing units will be rental apartments. The agreement anticipates construction could begin this year and be completed in 2015. Village Green, the developer of the Statler City project is a nationally recognized firm with Detroit roots and projects in 13 states. It recently renovated and renamed

between $30 million and $35 million in the project, build it to meet the National Association of Home Builders’ National Green Building Standards and develop first-floor retail space along Washington Blvd. Parking for tenants will be underground.

The developers hope to complete the project in 2016.

“We have known for some time that people who want to live Downtown have found it very

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difficult to find apartments,” said George W. @michronicle Jackson, president and CEO of Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC), which will manage final development terms on behalf of the DDA. “These projects will go a long way toward meeting that demand.

The 20-story municipal landmark is home to the city of Detroit’s executive and legislative branches of government, the clerk offices for the City of Detroit and Wayne County as well as the Third Judicial Circuit Court and Wayne County Probate

Court. An average of four thousand people each day and one million annually visit the municipal center landmark anchoring the hub of the city’s Civic Center.

In 2013, the DWJBA received national awards for historic preservation and energy and operational efficiencies of the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center (CAYMC). The recognitions are The Outstanding Building of the Year (TOBY) Award presented by the Building Owners & Managers Association (BOMA) for the third year and the eighth consecutive U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) prestigious ENERGY STAR designation.

The Building Owners

Michigan consumer confidence on the upswing Michigan consumers are growing increasingly confident about their personal finances.

The latest State of the State Survey from Michigan State University verifies this.

In a sign of an overall improving economy, 40 percent called their financial situation better this winter than a year ago.

Another 31 percent said they were worse off financially than a year ago.

Their views marked a continuing improvement since the spring of 2009, when only 13 percent said they were better off and 65 percent said they were worse off.

“Michigan’s economy bottomed out in late 2009 and early 2010, and has been slowly improving ever since,” said Charles Ballard, MSU economics

Michigan residents are also upbeat about their future.

Some 59 percent said they expect to be better off a year from now. Only 20 percent said they expected to be worse off.

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& Managers Association (BOMA) announced that The Outstanding Building of the Year (TOBY) Award in the category of a Historic Building was presented for recognition in the Historical Building category. This is BOMA’s third award to CAYMC with the prior two years being in the Government Building category. The historical rating was based on the building’s location in the city’s civic center, building design, architectural preservation and being the hub for political and social activities accessible to the public.

For the eighth consecutive year, the DWJBA has earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) prestigious ENERGY STAR, consistently ranking in the 90 percentile of buildings within its category.

The ENERGY STAR is the national symbol for high

standards of achievement in energy performance of buildings throughout the United States.

“The Authority has improved energy performance by managing and optimizing energy use across the entire facility and making cost-effective improvements to the municipal center. The DWJBA strives for excellence, providing a user-friendly, welcoming and efficient environment for those who work in and visit the building,” said Patricia Cole, CAYMC Commission Chair.

Since participating in the ENERGY STAR initiative, the DWJBA has achieved a cost avoidance of approximately $12 million dollars and reduced annual energy costs from $3.3 million to $1 million, a 70 percent reduction while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

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“That improvement is reflected in our survey data, which show that Michigan residents view the economic situation more favorably than they did a few years ago.”

Those results are similar to the results of the last several surveys, stretching back to 2012, but well above the reading of 40 percent from five years ago, Ballard said.

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A majority, 54 percent, also called their current finances “excellent” or “good” in the survey.

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“The revival of The Griswold project clearly shows that Detroit has turned a corner since the housing crash of 2008, and the investment by Village Green in Statler City sends a strong message to developers around the world that this is a great time to invest in Detroit.”

National awards recognize Young Municipal Center, City of Detroit and County of Wayne municipal headquarters The Detroit-Wayne Joint Building Authority (DWJBA), managing agent for the circa 1955, 747,000 square foot Coleman A. Young Municipal Center in Detroit, continues to receive national recognition for its facilities and operational management and building of the year designation.

The Detroit-Wayne Joint Building Authority is the State of Michigan’s oldest public authority.

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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

April 2-8, 2014 Page C-4

Women of Excellence Class of 2014.

Michigan Chronicle honors local Women of Excellence

By Donald James

James Brown, the Godfather of Soul, once recorded a song titled “It’s a Man’s World.” The hook of the lyrics was, “This is a man’s world, but it wouldn’t be nothing without a woman or a girl.”

Hiram E. Jackson, publisher of the Michigan Chronicle, and Donna Brazile.

On Friday, March 28, the Michigan Chronicle further validated Brown’s lyrics by recognizing the worth and contributions of women at its Women of Excellence 2014 Awards ceremony. Held at MGM Grand Casino and Hotel in downtown Detroit, the gala saluted 51 African-American women who have exemplified brilliance and excellence in a multiplicity of fields in metro Detroit.

The event was made possible by lead sponsor St. John Providence Health System.

Other sponsors were MGM Grand Detroit, State Farm, Comcast, UAWFord, and the Michigan Chronicle.

Marilyn French Hubbard and Cathy Nedd, chief operating officer of the Michigan Chronicle.

Woman of Excellence Jackie Davis of State Farm.

Women of Excellence keynote speaker Donna Brazile.

National journalist, radio show host and native Detroiter Ed Gordon served as the event’s master of ceremonies as almost 1,000 people showed appreciation of the honorees’ leadership and empowerment acumen in such sectors as religion, education, communications, banking, business, politics, finances, community and civic engagement, health services, and cultural enrichment.

“We started Women of Excellence eight years ago,” said Hiram E. Jackson, CEO of Real Times Media, publisher of the Michigan Chronicle and other African-African publications in more than 30 national markets.

“The Michigan Chronicle started it because we wanted to celebrate local African-American women who inspire others through their vision and leadership. These are special women. They are nominated by prior winners, so they deserve to be honored. This afternoon, we celebrate these women for their personal code of ethics, exceptional courage, unwavering conviction and extraordinary grace.”

To help drive home the essence of women and excellence, national Democratic political strategist Donna Brazile was the event’s keynote speaker. In her eloquent, straightforward, southern style of speaking, filled with timely humor, Brazile talked about her background and experiences, but she mainly praised the honorees.

“As I was flying here for this event, I was reading the bios of all of you exceptional women who we are honoring today,” said Brazile. “I was amazed, I was in awe, with the backgrounds and characters and how you have succeeded in your respective fields.

You are amazing, you are talent-

ed, and you are tenacious. Some of you need to be on television so that I can take a Sunday off and go to church.”

Brazile spoke about how one can be successful, even when life’s early circumstances said otherwise.

“I was one of nine children born in poverty to two working poor parents,” said Brazile, who is also an author, university professor and frequent television guest on national news programs.

“My father worked every day as a janitor, my mother worked every day as a maid. Yet, they put eight of their nine children through college.”

Brazile issued a challenge to the honorees: “Stand tall without standing on someone and be a victor without having victims.

Continue to use your power to open doors so that no young girl or young boy will ever be left behind. It is your time to stand up. to encourage, to show up, march on, believe and to endure.”

Master of ceremonies Ed Gordon and keynote speaker Donna Brazile.

As the Women of Excellence honorees walked across the stage to receive beautiful plaques, the ladies were all smiles. Several of the honorees reflected on being a chosen one of excellence.

“I thank my mother and father for helping to propel me to believe and understand that I had a purpose in life,” said Sheilah P. Clay, president and CEO of Neighborhood Service Organization. “I’ve been blessed to be able to do great things to help others.”

Gail Perry Mason, Linda Forte and Joyce Hayes Giles.

Lisa L. Howze, chief of staff, Mayor’s Office, City of Detroit, was humbled by the award.

“Receiving this award is a great honor,” said Howze. “It is a culmination of being recognized for all of the achievements that I’ve made. However, I keep in mind that it’s not about me because my focus has always been about delivering, uplifting and empowering others, just as these other incredible women today have done.”

Honorees enjoy the evening’s festivities.

Alice G. Thompson, CEO of Black Family Development, Inc., added, “I ask myself, ‘Why was I selected?’ It was not about my name, my title, or my position.

It was about the work that I am doing. I realize that this work is making a difference. So I’m excited to have received this honor, along with so many other women who are also working to make a positive difference.”

As the event concluded, the words of Brazile still resonated in describing the honorees: “You are phenomenal women.

I’m proud of you and I’m proud to be in your company. You are the leaders that we have been waiting for.”

Dr. Gail Parker, Janice Cosby, Tiffany Douglas and Rochelle Riley.

Audience view.

Fashion show models introduce new designs from Kenneth W. Daniels Designs.

April 2-8, 2014 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • Page C-5

2014 Call for Nominations

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE IS SEEKING NOMINATIONS FOR THE 2014 MEN OF EXCELLENCE AWARDS. Me n o f E x c e l l e n c e c e l e b r a t e s l o c a l A f r i c a n - A m e r i c a n m e n w h o m o t i v a t e a n d i n s p i r e o t h e r s t h r o u g h t h e i r v i s i o n a n d l e a d e r s h i p, exceptional achievements and participation in community ser vice.

NOMINATION FORM Name of Nominee

Age

Title/Position

Submissions will be accepted until April 9, 2014 at 5 pm.

Company/Affiliation

Submit by mail, visit www.

Years in Industry

michiganchronicle.com NOMINEE CONTACT INFORMATION Address

at events@michronicle.com.

City/State/Zip Day Phone

Evening Phone

Fax

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

QUESTIONS TO BE COMPLETED Describe the specific accomplishments that demonstrate the nominee’s professional excellence.

Describe the nominee’s community service activity or organizational involvement.

How has the nominee mentored others?

NOMINATOR’S CONTACT INFORMATION Name Title Firm/Organization Address City/State/Zip Day Phone Email

Michigan Chronicle, 479 Ledyard, Detroit, MI

Email

Fax

or email c/o Amber Tucker

Evening Phone

48201, (313) 963-5522.

Page C-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • April 2-8, 2014

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April 2-8, 2014

Reflections

By Steve Holsey

Can they do it?

Back in 1980, the Jacksons had a Top 30 single titled “Can You Feel It?” from their “Triumph” album. Well, an appropriate question right now is “Can they do it?” — that is, remain a headliner act without the charisma and stature of megastar Michael Jackson, or even a guest appearance by superstar Janet Jackson.

The Jacksons are scheduled to perform at the Sound Board at the Motor City Casino on June 12. The theatre has a seating capacity of 1,500. Can Jermaine, Marlon, Jackie and Tito fill that number of seats? Of course, some people will be there out of curiosity, but that’s not enough.

The Jacksons: Jackie, Marlon, Tito and Jermaine.

The Jacksons’ 1989 album “2300 Jackson Street,” recorded with very little participation

by Michael, was only a mild seller.

IT IS interesting how an actor, singer or musician can be a major star in one part of the world, yet be completely unknown elsewhere. Such is the case with Majid Michel, a hugely popular actor from Ghana, West Africa.

Michel has made a lot of successful movies and in 2012 Majid Michel took home the prestigious Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role.

Still, he longs to make it in the United States, work with directors like Steven Spielberg, James Cameron and George Lucas, and win an Oscar.

In case you were wondering why Majid Michel has such a light complexion, his mother is from Ghana and his father from Lebanon.

ERICA CAMPBELL, formerly of the contemporary gospel duo Mary Mary, made a lot of people chuckle or at least smile when she joked that some concert presenters “want to pay you with a chicken dinner” because they think gospel concerts should be free of charge. Which is why it is difficult for gospel artists to sell out larger venues.

Anita Baker Thoughts, remembrances…and support

By Steve Holsey It was early 1980. That is when I first met Anita Baker. At the time she was the featured female vocalist in the Detroit band Chapter 8.

They made the national charts three times in 1979-1980, “Ready for Your Love,” “Don’t You Like It?” and the one Baker did the lead on that made people really sit up and take notice, “I Just Wanna Be Your Girl.”

Now this was a voice! And ironically, one of the guys in the band, Michael J. Powell, ended up producing most of Baker’s biggest hits after she went solo a few years later, as well as hits for many other artists.

Before going any further, we should clear up a misconception. Although Anita Baker spent most of her life in Detroit, she was born in Toledo, Ohio.

When Baker’s first album, “The Songstress,” was released in 1983, it became obvious to just about everyone that a new star had arrived, one who would be a permanent fixture.

Erica Campbell

That album featured the Top 10 hit “Angel.” But it also included “No More Tears” which remains my all time favorite Anita Baker song. It can never leave my iPod.

Much of the public fails to understand that gospel artists are in show business, and they sing to make money, not just to “spread the word.”

ALL KINDS of Anita Baker thoughts ran through my mind while that ridiculous “arrest warrant” madness was at its peak. Fortunately, it was dismissed.

While acknowledging that some people just don’t know better, Campbell said, “I’m very willing to educate them on what is required.”

Rena Scott, a songstress from Detroit, e-mailed that she has a new single titled “One More Chance,” available on iTunes that, as she put it, “will make you want to dance.”

She also has two albums, “Take Me Away” and “Let Me Love You,” all on her own Amor label.

PHARRELL WILLIAMS is annoyed with people who have criticized him for purportedly having no Black women on his “G I R L” album cover.

Williams fired back, “It’s insecurity. You can do anything you want to do, and what I chose to do was put my friends on the cover…and the girl next to me is Black.” Pharrell Williams In last week’s edition there was a feature story on four great ladies of song who, believe it or not, turn 70 this year — Gladys Knight, Diana Ross, Patti LaBelle and Mary Wilson.

Well, several male stars reach that milestone year this year as well, including singers Cuba Gooding (lead singer of the Main Ingredient), musician Booker T. Jones (of Booker T. & the MG’s), R&B legend Bobby Womack and actor Tim Reid.

Alicia Keys must be exceptionally open-minded, based on the fact that she went with her husband, hip-artist and producer Swizz

Bobby Womack

See Reflections Page D-3

All over plastering, carpentry and painting work done on her home, apparently not very well. But the situation certainly didn’t call for such deplorable actions, even in the event that there was some blame on Baker’s part.

And this was another example of the media sensationalizing the news to titillate viewers, no matter how much it embarrasses someone. But Anita Denise Baker will bounce back, on the strength of her resolve and the positive thoughts and prayers that continue to go out on her behalf.

Baker once said, “Historically, all my heroes and heroines have had issues and problems. We all do.”

THAT GOES a long way in explaining the long and mysterious hiatuses, the ending of the marriage that seemed destined for permanency, etc. But things happen. We all thought Smokey and Claudette Robinson were together forever, but their mar-

No one could ever get tired

of hearing gems like “Caught Up in the Rapture,” “Sweet Love,” “Giving You the Best That I Got,” “Angel,” “Just

Because,” “Talk to Me,” “I Apologize” and “No More Tears.”

riage, which started in1959, ended in 1987, much to Claudette’s surprise.

(This story might sound somewhat unstructured, but that’s because it is being written as the thoughts come, and straight from the heart.)

Anita Baker and I have been friends for a long time, although our paths only cross occasionally.

The last interview was in 2004 when she was promoting her long-awaited “My Everything” album, which followed the first hiatus.

Anita was grateful for the fact that radio, particularly adult contemporary, quiet storm and jazz stations, kept her on the airwaves in the intervening years. But no wonder. No one could ever get tired of hearing gems like “Caught Up in the Rapture,” “Sweet Love,” “Giving You the Best That I Got,” “Angel,” “Just Because,” “Talk to Me,” “I Apologize” and “No More Tears.”

THE INTERVIEW took place during in one of the box seats at the Fox Theatre, even though the theatre was not open at that time of day. She wanted to do the interview there because of what the Fox represented to Detroit entertainment and to her personally.

We had a ball, and laughed so much that the public relations people down on the main floor were wondering what was going on.

Also on the main floor waiting was

See Anita Baker Page D-3

sports

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

The Tigers deliver – Andre Smith photos –

April 2-8, 2014 Page D-2

entertainment

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

MOTOR CITY ENTERTAINMENT

CALENDAR

ALL-STAR Comedy Festival, Detroit Opera House, May 3, featuring Corey Holcomb, Deon Cole, Capone, Red Grant, J.J. Williamson and Cocoa Brown. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations.

BLACKSTREET, K’Jon, Elijah Connor, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, May 11. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino.com. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

“BRING IT ON: The Musical,” Fox Theatre, April 5-6.

Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations.

To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

CHER, Joe Louis New Edition Arena, April 12.

Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

“THE CROSS and the Light,” featuring Tasha Page Lockhart, Tim Bowman and Kenny Watson, Music Hall, April 10-13. Tickets sold at the box office and Ticketmaster locations.

MILEY CYRUS, The Palace of Auburn Hills, April 12. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

BILL MAHER, Caesars Windsor, April 27. Tickets sold via Ticketmaster. To charge by phone call 1.888-345.5885.

BRUNO MARS, The Palace of Auburn Hills, June 18. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations.

To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

BRIAN McKNIGHT, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, May 22. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino.com. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

NEW EDITION, Chene Park, July 25. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and the Chene Park box office. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

“OLDIES AND MORE” BYOB parties for older adults. St. George Cathedral Cultural Center, 18405 W. Nine Mile Road. Fridays, Apr. 11, Apr. 25, May 23, June 27, July 11, Aug. 22, Sept. 26, Oct. 24, Nov. 14. Christmas Musiq Soulchild party, Dec. 19. Call Bobby Green at 313.530.2933 for more information.

MUSIQ SOULCHILD, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, April 10, Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino.com. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

EXPERIENCE Hendrix Tour, Fox Theatre, April 3. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

HARLEM Globetrotters, the Palace of Lionel Richie Auburn Hills, April 19. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

JACKSONS, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, June 12. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino.com. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

O’JAYS, Stephanie Mills, Enchantment, the Floaters, Fox Theatre, May 10. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

“PERILOUS TIMES,” Music Hall, April 17-20. Tickets on sale at the Music Hall box office, God’s World and Ticketmaster locations.

LIONEL RICHIE, Cee Lo Green, DTE Energy Music Theatre, June 20.

Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

Cee Lo Green

BONEY JAMES, Chante Moore, Najee, Gary Taylor, Pieces of a Dream. Detroit Opera House, April 19. Tickets available at the Detroit Opera House box office and Ticketmaster locations. For more information, call 313.753.1375.

LADY GAGA, Joe Louis Arena, May 17. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone call 1.800.745.3000. They may also be purchased at OlympiaEntertainment.com JAY LENO, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, June 7, two shows. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino.com. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

WANDA SYKES, Andiamo Celebrity Showroom, April 11. Tickets sold Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

“THE JOY of Gospel Music” concerts featuring Dr. Michael Walker doing tributes to gospel legends, Puritan Avenue Baptist Church, April 13, St. Peter AME Zion Church, May 18. For additional information, call 313.921.9577.

McCOY TYNER, Terence Blanchard, Orchestra Hall, Friday, April 4. For tickets or more information, visit dso.org or call 313.576.5111.

Anita Baker

From page D-1

Anita’s husband, Walter Bridgforth, another person I like very much, president of the W.B.B.J. Investment Co., and their two sons, Walter and Edward. I was so impressed with how polite and well mannered the boys were. (Last summer, Edward worked as an intern at the Chronicle.)

One of the many interesting things about Anita Baker is her commitment to doing things right, to seek perfection in all endeavors, and, like Barbra Streisand, she is sometimes criticized for it, because she is a woman. While a man with those kinds of traits is called strong and assertive, women are sometimes labeled something else. Anita described it as being “looked upon as being difficult.”

BAKER ALSO does not believe in getting in anyone else’s spotlight.

Once I ran into her backstage at Masonic Auditorium. She was there visiting the group Levert (Gerald Levert, Sean Levert and Marc Gordon) who were performing there that night. When press people attempted to talk to her or photograph her, she said, “No, this is their night.”

In addition, Anita Baker believes in showing gratitude.

It so happens that yours truly was the first person to ever write about Anita Baker as a solo artist. Then in 1986, when her career-defining album, “Rapture,” was soaring into the stratosphere, she was in town, staying at a downtown hotel, but was not doing interviews.

However, without me even asking, she had an interview set up, and we had a lot of fun. At one point we were talking about people feeling sorry for them-

Reflections

Beatz, and his ex-wife, Mashonda Tifrere — especially since Tifrere once publicly accused Keys of being a major factor in the ending of her marriage.

A lot of people wish Sean Combs would make up his mind. He has been known first as Puff Daddy, then P. Diddy and Diddy. Now, at least for his next album, he’s going back to Puff Daddy.

BETCHA DIDN’T KNOW…that musician-singer Michael Henderson was in his mid-teens when he began working professionally. (I remember him playing bass in the Detroit Emeralds’ band in 1968.)

MEMORIES: “Give Me the Night” (George Benson), “Hey You! Get Off My Mountain” (the Dramatics), “Somebody’s

selves. I said, “Yeah, they should get off the pity pot.” She laughed hard and said she had never heard that term before.

ANOTHER funny is that on the day after one of her concerts, a lady told me that Anita Baker had acknowledged me from the stage, but I didn’t stand up. But I wasn’t there! From a distance (the socalled me was not near the front) I guess someone looked like me.

Well, in conclusion I would like to say to Anita Baker that one day — sooner than later, hopefully — you will look back on all this current drama and recognize it as another exercise in survival and growth.

To quote one of your song titles, “You’re the best thing yet.”

Oh, and one more thing: We’re still waiting for that album!

From page D-1 Watching Me” (Rockwell), “Kissing You” (Keith Washington), “Dreamin’” (Vanessa Williams), “Give Me Your Love” (Barbara Mason), “Slow Hand” (the Pointer Sisters), “Trouble Man” (Marvin Gaye), “Sweet Sensation” (Stephanie Mills), “Wishing Well” (Terence Trent D’Arby).

BLESSINGS to Sandra Steinberg, Tim Dinkins, Lydia Nance Adams, Wade Briggs, Leonia Lloyd, Dennis Archer, LaVerne Smith, Adrian Stevenson, Thelma Myles and Sylvia Moy. WORDS OF THE WEEK, from Bono: “Religion can be the enemy of God.” Let the music play!

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

April 2-8, 2014

Page D-3

Classified

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

PERSONAL SERVICES

April 2-8, 2014

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS NOTICE OF HEARINGS REGARDING MATTERS TO COME

MRS. LINN

BORN GIFTED READER The 7th Daughter without asking you a single word. I will tell you what you want to know. Tell your present, past and future. Tell you who your friends and enemies are.

Why you’re so unlucky. If your loved one is true or false.I will advise you all problems of life, such as love, marriage, business and health, etc. Why suffer, you can be free from all troubles. I guarantee Sucess where others failed. I am superior to any other reader you have seen.

Don’t let distance keep you away from Health and Happiness. Hrs. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Daily and Sunday.

No Mail Answered 2742 Monroe St., Toledo, Ohio 1-419-248-2145

ANNOUNCEMENTS

INVITATION TO BID The Wayne County Regional Education Service Agency (RESA) on behalf of the Macomb, Oakland and Wayne RESA School Foodservice Consortium (the MOR Consortium) requests firm pricing on cold cereal bowl pack products, all varieties, for the school meal programs for the 2014-2015 school year.

Cereal Bid RFP-14-001-256 Bid Proposals are due by 12:00 pm Eastern Standard Time, Monday, May 5, 2014 All documentation for this bid is located on the Wayne RESA web site at: http://www/resa.net/services/purchasing/rfp

THIS CLASSIFIED SPOT FOR SALE! Advertise your product or recruit an applicant in more than 100 Michigan newspapers! Only $299/week.

before the City Council of Detroit. Advertisements for bids and contracts for purchases by the City of Detroit appear daily in the Detroit Legal News. Copies are available at the City County Bldg. and at 2001 W. Lafayette, Detroit.

MICHAEL E. DUGGAN, MAYOR CITY OF DETROIT PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

INVITATION TO BID

The City of Detroit invites community organizations to submit proposals for projects to be funded by the 2014-2015 Community Development Block Grant/Neighborhood Opportunity Fund (CDBG/NOF) program.

All community organizations including neighborhood residents, business organizations, citizen district councils, block clubs, human service organizations, etc. who wish to participate in the development and implementation of either CDBG or NOF projects as advisors and/or as operating agencies may submit proposals.

All Proposals for the 2014-2015 CDBG/NOF Program must be submitted on a 2014-2015 CDBG/NOF Proposal Form. It must be complete, and must be received at the Detroit Planning and Development Department (P&DD) 12th Floor (65 Cadillac Square in Detroit, MI), by before 5:00 PM, Thursday, April 17, 2014.

Fax Copies of Proposals will not be accepted.

WORKSHOP #3

WORKSHOP #4

INVITATION TO BID

Wednesday, April 2, 2014 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Registration begins at 12:30 PM)

Saturday, April 5, 2014 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Registration begins at 8:30 AM)

Monday, April 7, 2014 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Registration begins at 12:30 PM)

Tuesday, April 8, 2014 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Registration begins at 12:30 PM)

Northwest Activities Center 18100 Meyers, Detroit, MI 48235

Focus Hope 1400 Oakman Blvd Detroit, MI 48238

Erma L. Henderson Auditorium Coleman A. Young Municipal Center (CAYMC) 2 Woodward Ave, 13th Floor Detroit, MI 48226

Focus Hope 1400 Oakman Blvd Detroit, MI 48238

There are MANDATORY walk through meetings at both sites, at the Redford site, Wednesday, April 3, 2014, promptly at 10:00 AM, and at the Douglass site Wednesday April 3, promptly at 12:00 Noon.

LAN Engineer General Motors Co. seeks a LAN Engineer for its Warren, MI facility responsible for troubleshooting, installing, implementing, administering, and maintaining network systems and providing Tier II support; design, monitoring, integration, and support/ maintenance; provide support for network connectivity or related network issues for the user community; troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve network problems; coordinate the installation, configuration, and maintenance of network components, among other duties.

Min. BS and 6 yrs. exp. Please send resumes to: GM Co., Resume Processing, Ref. # 4742307, 300 Renaissance Center, M/C 482-C32-D46, Detroit, MI 48265-3000.

Park & Recreation Manager 12 - Belle Isle/Milliken/OAC

According to proposal criteria, a community group representative must attend a workshop to be eligible for funding.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation Division is hiring a Park & Recreation Manager. This position is to provide high quality urban outreach and recreation opportunities to the public, while preserving and balancing the protection of natural and cultural resources at Milliken State Park and Harbor and Belle Isle Park. This position also functions as the Department’s liaison to the Michigan State Police, DNR Law Enforcement Division and City of Detroit in regards to law enforcement.

This notice will be posted on the following City of Detroit website: http://www.detroitmi.gov/Departments/PlanningDevelopmentDepartment . For further information, please contact: Ms. Sheryl Gray Detroit Planning and Development Department Grants Management Section 1200 Cadillac Tower 65 Cadillac Square Detroit, MI 48226 Telephone: 224-6380 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Persons with disabilities, who require special accommodations, auxiliary aids, or services to participate in these hearings, should contact the Planning and Development Department. Reasonable advance notice of such needs is required.

Please visit the State of Michigan Civil Service website at www.michigan.gov/ mdcs and click on “MI Jobs”. Select the Park & Recreation Manager 12 position within Natural Resources.

Notice of Non-Discrimination: The City of Detroit does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, age,handicap, sex or sexual orientation. Complaints may be filed with the Detroit Human Rights Department, Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, Detroit, Michigan.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

NOTICE of AIR POLLUTION COMMENT PERIOD and PUBLIC HEARING

ATTENTION QUALIFIED GENERAL CONTRACTORS MARCH 27, 2014

The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) is holding a public comment period from April 2, 2014, until May 2, 2014, and a public hearing, if requested, on May 8, 2014, on Nortru, LLC’s proposed reactivation of fourteen waste storage and processing tanks. The facility is located at 421 Lycaste Street, Detroit, Michigan. The public comment period and hearing, if requested, are to allow all interested parties the opportunity to comment on the Department’s proposed conditional approval of a Permit to Install (PTI).

It has been preliminarily determined that the reactivation of fourteen waste storage and processing tanks will not violate any of the Department’s rules nor the National Ambient Air Quality Standards.

Additionally, the reactivation of the fourteen tanks will require revisions to Renewable Operating Permit (ROP) No. MI-ROP-N0731-2009 (SRN N0731). This public comment period meets the public participation requirements for a future administrative amendment to the ROP. Copies of the MDEQ staff’s analysis and proposed permit conditions are available for inspection at the following locations, or you may request a copy be mailed to you by calling 517-284-6793.

Please reference PTI Application Number 184-13.

Air Quality Division (AQD) Internet Home Page http://www.michigan.gov/air DETROIT: MDEQ, AQD, Cadillac Place, 3058 West Grand Boulevard, Suite 2-300 (Phone: 313-456-4683) LANSING: MDEQ, AQD, Constitution Hall, 525 West Allegan Street, (Phone: 517-284-6793) CITY OF DETROIT: Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, 2 Woodward Avenue, Suite 1126 (Phone: 313-224-3400) WAYNE COUNTY: Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, 2 Woodward Avenue, 2nd Floor, Room 201, Detroit (Phone: 313-224-6262) The public is encouraged to present written views on the proposed permit action. Written comments or a hearing request should be sent to Ms. Mary Ann Dolehanty, Permit Section Supervisor, MDEQ, AQD, P.O. Box 30260, Lansing, Michigan, 48909-7760.

Comments may also be submitted from the webpage http://www. deq.state.mi.us/aps/cwerp.shtml (click on “Submit Comment” under the Nortru, LLC, PTI No. 184-13 listing). All statements received

by May 2, 2014, will be considered by the decision maker prior to final permit action. If a hearing is requested, the comment period will be extended until the close of the hearing.

If requested in writing by May 2, 2014, an informational session and the public hearing will be held on May 8, 2014, at the EAA Southeast High School Auditorium, 3030 Fairview Street, Detroit, Michigan. The informational session will begin at 6:00 p.m. The AQD staff will be available to answer questions. The public hearing will begin at 7:00 p.m. The sole purpose of the public hearing will be to take formal testimony on the record. Those interested may contact the AQD at 517-284-6792 on May 5, 2014, to determine if a hearing was requested and will be held.

Individuals needing accommodations for effective participation at the hearing should contact Ms. Amie Hartman at 517-284-6793 one week in advance to request mobility, visual, hearing, or other assistance.

MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ___________________________________________________ Mary Ann Dolehanty, Permit Section Supervisor

In order to be considered for this position you must follow the directions on the Civil Service website and submit required information and college transcripts as noted.

Seeking

MANAGER, OPERATIONS – DEVELOPMENT INFORMATION SERVICES at OAKLAND UNIVERSITY

The City of Detroit is inviting qualified General Contractors for the following Project: PROJECT - Abayomi Community Development Corporation – New St. Mark Family Life Center Facility Renovations LOCATION - New St. Mark Baptist Church, 24331 W. Eight Mile Rd., Detroit, MI 48219 Phone: 313-541-3846 OWNER - New St. Mark Baptist Church

DACE

GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION - Abayomi Community Development Corporation, 24331 W. Eight Mile Rd, Detroit, phone number (313) 541-9828, is inviting qualified Contractors to submit separate bids for each of the following projects:

Assist the Director in managing the administrative operations of the Division of Development, Alumni, and Community Engagement. Prepare and monitor budgets, assist with the execution of contracts and purchase orders, costing development and marketing activities, assisting with IT support, and provide support to other administrative needs as identified. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A minimum of 3 years supervisory experience in higher education. Ability to motivate staff to perform at maximum levels and develop a teamwork environment.

Salary is up to the mid $50s, commensurate with education and experience.

See on line positing for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by April 22, 2014. Must apply on line for this position to: https://jobs.oakland.edu

1 Completion of partially installed elevator.

2.Renovation of existing spaces, corridors, class room, elevator pit waterproofing, exit and emergency lights, floor covering, light fixtures, completion of duct work, completion of warm up kitchen and electrical work.

ARCHITECT - BIDC, Inc. (313) 899-2099 GENERAL QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS - Contractors desiring to bid shall demonstrate the following minimum qualifications: At least three years experience in their relative trade(s), licensed as required by the state or local law. A completed Contractor’s Qualification Statement and Cost Breakdown must accompany the Bid, the form of which is attached to this Bid Announcement.

INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS - Public Liability with the City of Detroit named as an Additional Insured, Auto Liability, Worker’s Compensation to limits specified in the General Conditions of the Contract and Payment and Performance Bond.

BID PACKAGES - Bid packages will be available Thursday, April 3, 2014 at 24331 W. Eight Mile Rd. Detroit, MI. 48219, from 10:00AM- to 5:00PM, Monday through Friday. The phone number is (313) 541-9828. Bidders will be responsible for the associated charges with obtaining documents.

PRE-BID CONFERENCE - A pre-bid site review will be held at 24331 W. Eight Mile Rd., Detroit at 11:00AM on Tuesday, April 10, 2014.

Subscribe and receive one full year of the Michigan Chronicle to your home or office

BIDDING - Bid proposal forms are due by 2:00PM on Thursday, April 17, 2014 at 24331 W Eight Mile Rd. Detroit, 48219. Sealed bid proposal must be submitted in accordance with the instructions to Bidders contained in the bid package.

Name:

BID OPENING - All bids will be opened publicly at 2:00PM on Thursday, April 24, 2014. The Owner reserves the right to waive any irregularity in any bid or to reject any or all bids should it be deemed for its best interest.

Address:

PROJECT FUNDING - The contract will be executed under the Neighborhood Opportunity Fund program as administered by the City of Detroit Planning and Development Department.

City:

BONDING REQUIREMENTS - The successful Bidder is required to furnish Payment (Labor and Materials) and Performance Bonds in the amount covering the faithful performance of the Contract and the payment of all obligations arising there under, in the amount of 100% of their contracts, executed by a surety acceptable to the Owner and which is licensed to business in the State of Michigan.

The contractor shall be required to comply with the “Section 3 Clause” (24 CFR Part 135). All contracts (subcontracts) shall include the Section 3 Clause.

IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

313 963-5522

Zip: YES! I want to receive the Michigan Chronicle for 52 weeks for only $50.00 Check if Renewal Renewal Acct. #

WAGE AND EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS - The successful contractor will be required to comply with federal laws governing equal employment opportunity, with prevailing wage requirements of the Federal Labor Standards Act which also incorporates Davis-Bacon requirements, will have to be cleared and approved by the City of Detroit, and comply with Mayor’s Executive Order No. 2007-1 Utilization of Detroit Residents on Publicly-Funded Construction Projects, as follows: Per Executive Order No. 2007-1: at least fifty-one percent (51%) of the workforce must be bonda-fide Detroit residents. In addition, Detroit residents shall perform fifty-one percent (51%) of the hours worked on the project. Workforce and project hours shall include work performed

by Detroit residents in the various job categories: officials and managers, supervisors and forepersons, professions, technicians, sales workers, office and clerical, skilled trades, craft workers, operators, laborers, service workers, apprentices, and on-the-job training positions.

313 720-5668

HELP WANTED

Workshop registration information can be obtained by calling, (313) 224-6380.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Lawn Maintenance Landscaping Hauling Junk Removal

Its Pays to Advertise in MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

The 2014-2015 CDBG/NOF proposal packages with the proposal forms will be available at P&DD/City Planning Commission workshops beginning April 2, 2014. Proposals will be available at the Planning & Development Department (P&DD) 12th Floor Offices after April 5, 2014. Proposals will also be available on the City Planning Commission and P&DD websites after April 5, 2014. Proposals should be mailed or delivered to the address below from April 2, 2014 to April 16, 2014 between 9:00 am and 4:30 pm: 65 Cadillac Square, Suite 2300 Attn: CDBG/NOF Detroit, MI 48226 On April 17th by 5:00pm, proposals should be delivered to: 65 Cadillac Square, Suite 1200 Detroit, MI 48226 PROPOSAL WRITING WORKSHOPS The Planning and Development Department in conjunction with the City Planning Commission (CPC) will conduct four (4) CDBG/NOF “Proposal Writing Workshops”.

The workshops are designed to help community groups prepare their CDBG/NOF proposals.

WORKSHOP #2

Sealed documents are to be returned to the Purchasing office no later than Tuesday, April 8, 2014 at 2:30 PM (Detroit Michigan Time). No late, fax, e-mail or any other utilization of an electronic method to respond to this request will be accepted.

SERVICE DIRECTORY

Proposals submitted by the April 17, 2014 deadline will be evaluated by city agencies. Funding approval, for proposals, will be determined by the Mayor and City Council.

WORKSHOP #1

Bid documents may be obtained from the Purchasing office located at 5201 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, Michigan, 48202, 313-481-1325. They may also be obtained from the Detroit Public Library website at detroitpubliclibrary.org.

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is soliciting IFBs for the Removal and Installation of Roofs at the Wayne Terminal in Inkster, MI and the Royal Oak Transit Center in Royal Oak, MI Control No. 14-1560. IFB forms are estimated to be obtained near the date of April 7, 2014 from www.mitn.info.

IFBs are due May 5th by 2:00 PM ET.

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR 2014-2015 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) NEIGHBORHOOD OPPORTUNITY FUND (NOF) PROPOSALS, CDBG/NOF WORKSHOPS

Call this paper of 800-227-7636 www.cnaads.com

The Detroit Public Library Commission is seeking sealed competitive Requests for Proposal for installation of rubber floor tiles at the Redford Branch of the Detroit Public Library located at 21200 Grand River Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48219 and at the Douglass branch located at 3666 Grand River Avenue Detroit, Michigan 48208.

Page D-4

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praiseconnect.com

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

April 2-8, 2014 Page D-5

David Whitfield and the Wings of Love Voices of Praise Family & Friends Choir.

The music department of Wings of Love Ministries, where Pastor Alvin E. Jackson Sr. serves the senior pastor, presented a dynamic Family & Friends concert on Sunday, March 31, at Wings of Love Ministries under the direction of Brother David Whitfield. The concert was a reflection of how good God has been to the church through the years.

In honor of Missionary Humphrey There was a exciting birthday community celebration for Missionary Hattie Humphrey recently at the Crown Plaza Hotel. Two of her special guests were Wayne County Sheriff Benny Napoleon (left) and O’Neil D. Swanson, president and CEO, Swanson Funeral Homes, Inc. Michael Fletcher, Kandie Ross and Gerald Brooks

Pastor Kenneth Flowers celebrates 19th pastoral anniversary Greater New Mt. Moriah Baptist Church invites the public to join a weekend celebration of the Rev. Kenneth James Flowers’ 19th pastoral anniversary. Celebration service kicks off Friday, April 11, and will culminate with two services Sunday, April 14, featuring dynamic local ministers as guest speakers.

Friday, April 11, Dr. E. L. Branch of Third New Hope Baptist Church will be the guest speaker.

Sunday, April 13, Bishop Victor Sharpe of St. John the Great Baptist Church

Evelyn Dolores Harp, Dec. 14, 1932 - March 23, 2014.

Mother of Roy S. Harp and Katherine S. Harp; grandmother of Raquel S.L. Harp and R’Mand B. Harp.

Preceded in death by husband Roy G. Harp.

Memorial service Monday, April 7, 1 p.m., visitation, noon-1 p.m., Mayflower Congregational UCC, 7301 Curtis, Detroit.

Private interment.

B M & E STATE CONVENTION USHERS ANNUAL PRAYER BREAKFAST Dr. E. L. Branch

Bishop Victor Sharpe

Pastor Solomon Kinloch

will serve as the 10 a.m. speaker. At 4 pm, Pastor Solomon Kinloch, pastor and Triumph Church will

close out the anniversary.

All worship services will be held at Greater New Mt. Moriah Mission-

ary Baptist Church located at 586 Owen, Detroit.

For more information, call (313) 871-8025.

REV. DR. TELLIS J. CHAPMAN, SPEAKER Saturday, April 12, 2014 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM ST. JOHN ARMENIAN CHURCH 22001 Northwestern Highway Southfield, MI 48075 Sister Kay Speight, Usher’s President Sister Evelyn Smith, Breakfast Chairperson Rev. Dr. Tellis J. Chapman, Convention President Tickets: $20 (Adult) $13 (Children) For additional information, call (248) 399-0244 evieev@comcast.net

Gospel Music Worship of America Detroit Chapter Reunion Concert The Gospel Music Workshop of America saluted three of Detroit’s icons at the GMWA Reunion on Saturday, March 30, at Liberty Temple Baptist Church where Pastor Steven Bland serves as senior pastor. Rev. Norma Jean Pender of WMUZ, Dr. Dorgan Needom Jr., the representative of the Detroit Chapter of GMWA, and Pastor Lawrence J. London, pastor of New Jerusalem Temple Missionary Baptist Church were all honored for their hard work and dedication to the GMWA Detroit Chapter and for keeping the legacy of gospel music live in the city of Detroit. The GMWA Reunion was organized by Jean Hodges.

Comcast Business to Award more than $600,000 in Cash and Services to Tech Savvy Entrepreneurs through Innovations 4 Entrepreneurs Program Comcast Business and Inc. Magazine today launched “Innovations 4 Entrepreneurs,” a national competition that will award more than $600,000 in cash and services to aspiring entrepreneurs who are leveraging technology to enhance customer and employee experiences.

Individual winners will have the opportunity to win $25,000 in cash, Comcast Business Internet and TV services for two years, a $2,500 allocation for additional Comcast Business services and complimentary use of premium cloud applications from Comcast’s Upware partners Cisco, Microsoft, Symantec, DocuSign, Soonr and Swiftpage Engage for one year.

“Technology can transform a small business, and we want to elevate and recognize those entrepreneurs that are us-

ing it to make a difference for their customers and employees with the Innovations 4 Entrepreneurs program,” said Terry Connell, senior vice president, Comcast Business. “Across our growing customer base, Comcast Business sees so many incredible stories about how innovative uses of technology help create exciting, profitable businesses. This program will show what can happen when these promising companies receive the funding and tools they need to take on the challenges of owning and running their own business.”

Based on an essay submission, entries will be judged and two winners will be selected in each of the 16 Comcast Business Regions: one winner for best use of technology to enhance the customer experience and one for best use of technology to

enhance the employee experience. Entries will be judged by John Jantsch, Marketing Consultant, Speaker and best-selling author of Duct Tape Marketing, The Commitment Engine and The Referral Engine and Anita Campbell, Founder, CEO and Publisher of Small Business Trends.

From the 32 regional winners, six will be named grand prize winners and, in addition to cash and services, will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to New York City, where they and a guest will have the opportunity to receive one-on-one consulting with nationally recognized business experts: Marcus Lemonis, businessman, investor, TV personality and Philanthropist; Robert Irvine, Celebrity Chef and Entrepreneur; and Comcast senior executives.

Page D-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • April 2-8, 2014