MC Digital Edition 5/1/13 by Real Times Media

Volume 76 – Number 34

WHAT’S INSIDE Speaks out on environmental justice (Page A-3)

Kimberly Hill Knott, senior policy manager at Detroiters Working For Environmental Justice (DWEJ) and project director for the Detroit Climate Action Collaborative, who has been honored at the White House, said the three most pressing environmental justice issues for Detroiters are air quality, cumulative impact and climate change.

Under Fire Detroit Public Library, stung by FBI probe, fights to preserve reputation

Black buying power and spending shifts (Page C-1) According to the data found in a new report, “The Buying Power of Black America,” now may be the most opportune time ever for businesses to develop a strategy for increasing their share of the Black American market.

CNN’s star anchor (Page D-1) Don Lemon, who just may be the hardest working man in TV journalism, says, “The word ‘no’ really bothers me. The surest way to get me to do something is to tell me that I can’t do it. Tell me ‘no’ and you’ve got a fight on your hands. A challenge.” He also believes in tranparency, professionally and personally.

Sphinx founder honored (Page D-6)

Mayor Bing: SEMCOG vote will worsen transportation in Detroit

By Patrick Keating

CHRONICLE STAFF WRITER

Despite pleas from both area residents and Mayor Bing, the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments’ (SEMCOG) 50-member executive committee voted last Friday to shift $7 million from DDOT to SMART. According to SEMCOG Executive Director Paul Tait, the requested action was to establish a formula for allocating Federal Transit Administration capital funds. In total, it involves just under $42 million for the fiscal year.

DPS promotes the district’s schools (Page B-1) Detroit Public Schools’ Blue Door Mascot, named Hope, has been hitting the streets to promote the great things happening at DPS.

May 1-7, 2013

michiganchronicle.com

The allocation of those funds was based on an agreement made in the mid 1970s where 65 percent would go to DDOT and 35 percent to SMART. “As a result of the passage of the Regional Transit Authority legislation, no formula currently exists,” Tait said, adding that based on an analysis of the relative capital needs of SMART and DDOT, the funds would be split for one year Mayor Bing as follows: 51.5 percent to SMART, 47.5 percent to DDOT and 1 percent to the People Mover.

By Bankole Thompson CHRONICLE SENIOR EDITOR

The Detroit Public Library is not only a Detroit institution rooted in the educational mission of the city, but also a jewel and a massive resource for many who look to the library to attend to their educational and research needs.

Tait emphasized that the $7 million that would go from DDOT to SMART would be for capital money, for bus purchases, facilities and preventive maintenance.

Children, s t u d e n t s and adults all use the Detroit Public Library as a reservoir of knowledge for the exchange of Bankole information Thompson and ideas and a community asset that stands as a connecting pillar and a learning tool. Often it is said that you can tell the educational commitment of a city by the kind of attention paid to the effective functioning of its public libraries and the set of eyes in charge of its management. Because libraries are places where knowledge is built in grooming a community of learners and those who would contribute to society. That is why news of the Detroit Public Library embroiled in allegations of financial mismanagement shocked most in the community because given its nature, it is the last place to expect scandals that are

The Federal Transit Administration questioned the continued use of the 65/35 formula. The FTA called it “inconsistent federal law.” Tait said DDOT has newer buses and at least a sufficient number of buses to provide core service. SMART, on the other hand, has more immediate needs for bus purchases and maintenance because of the age of its fleet. Bing told the executive committee he didn’t think that changing the distribution of the funding from the federal government could happen at a worse time.

JoAnne Mondowney routine in government bureaucratic structures where “pay to play” is often the order of day. Earlier this year, the library’s Main Branch on Woodward Avenue was raided by FBI agents in a corruption sweep that led to the firing of one of the top officials at the public library, Tim Cromer, who handled technology. Cromer’s Bloomfield home was also raided by federal authorities following reports that he awarded a $3 million no-bid technology contract to an outside com-

pany. Another company, Core, was contracted by Cromer to update the library’s technology infrastructure during which the cost of the work jumped to an unexplained $1.7 million from the initial $712,000. James Henley, the owner of Core, was indicted last month on bribery charges, that he allegedly paid $600,000 in kickbacks to an anonymous public official.

“Out of all of the initiatives that are important to the city and its inhabitants, transportation looms very, very high on the agenda,” Bing said, adding that on average, more than 100,000 people use public transportation every day.

The mayor also said this loss of funding

See SEMCOG page A-4

With the cloud of alleged financial mismanagement

See LIBRARY page A-4

“The public has raised some questions about what has happened, but it has not prevented people from coming. We are important in many communities and we are usually the last institution to leave the community.” — JOANNE MONDOWNEY, Executive Director, Detroit Public Library

Sphinx founder and president Aaron P. Dworkin was recently honored by the Royal Philharmonic Society as an honorary member, joining the ranks of iconic figures of classical music such Brahms, Mendelssohn, Wagner, Tchaikovsky, Verdi and Berlioz.

Mike Flanagan

Tim Greimel

Public outcry on ‘secret panel’ continues as education authority steps in By Donald James SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE

Amid widespread news reports that the governor sanctioned a “secret panel” to discuss ways in which to reshape public education in Michigan, Gov. Rick Snyder responded by asking Mike Flanagan, state superintendent of public instruction, to lead future discussions in a more public and transparent manner. News reports began to surface approximately two weeks ago that the governor’s clandestine group of computer software companies, charter school representatives and several state employees had been meeting for several months to explore ways of integrating technological advancements into the public education system, as well as looking at options to implement a school voucher system.

The fight continues $1.00

Nancy Pelosi (center), the first female Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and Democratic leader in Congress, gave the keynote address at the 2013 NAACP 58th Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner at Cobo Center attended by thousands. With her are Rev. Wendell Anthony (left), Detroit Branch NAACP president, and Donnell White, Detroit Branch NAACP executive director. See story on page A-5. — Andre Smith photo

The secrecy of the project drew outcry from educators and other stakeholders from around the state, saying that the lack of transparency was the opposite of what Gov. Snyder had promised when he ran for the state’s highest office in 2011.

In addition, the panel did not include

See AUTHORITY page A-4

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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Economists forecast more than forty thousand new jobs for Oakland County On the heels of its strongest two-year job growth in almost 20 years, Oakland County’s economy will add nearly 42,000 jobs through 2015, say University of Michigan economists. After gaining 48,000 jobs during 2011 and 2012 — Oakland’s best back-to-back years since 1994-95 — the county will add 11,600 jobs this year, 13,300 next year and 16,700 in 2015. “Oakland’s recovery is becoming as remarkable as the retrenchment that preceded it,” said economist George Fulton. “Since the recession’s low point at the end of 2009, the recovery has been red-hot with a growth rate averaging 3.8 percent per year in 2011 and 2012. We see the continuation of a solid recovery through 2015, extending its span to six years, but with job growth moderating from its sizzling pace of the past two years.” In their annual forecast of the Oakland County economy, Fulton and colleague Don Grimes of the U-M Institute 15% for Research on Labor, Employm e n t , and the 15% Economy say that high-wage industries — with average pay of more than $62,000 —accounted for more than half of the new private-sector jobs created during the recovery, a trend that will continue throughout the forecast horizon. “That the past two years were special is reinforced by the finding that private-sector job gains well exceeded what they averaged per year over the 1980-2000 period, prior to the extended weakness of the 2000s,” Fulton said. “The more moderate job gains we are forecasting over the next three years fall a little below that benchmark in 2013 and 2014, but a little above in 2015.” According to the forecast, the private serviceproviding sector will add 35,000 jobs through 2015. More than 40 percent of these job gains (15,500) will be in professional and business services, with another 5,300 new jobs in health services, 5,300 more in wholesale and retail trade, 4,100 in leisure and hospitality, and 2,300 in finance, insurance and real estate. Job growth in professional and business services over the next three years will be concentrated in engineering services, employment services, computer systems design, corporation management and testing laboratories, the economists say. “With the exception of employment services, all of these are high-paying industries that mostly employ people with college degrees,” Grimes said. In the goods-producing sector, which includes manufacturing and construction, Fulton and Grimes predict jobs gains of nearly 7,000 over the

“The real and projected

job gains from the end of 2009 through 2015 means that the county will have replenished 62 percent, or about five in eight, of the jobs lost from summer 2000 to the end of 2009.” The real and projected job gains from the end of 2009 through 2015 means that the county will have replenished 62 percent, or about five in eight, of the jobs lost from summer 2000 to the end of 2009.

next three years. About 4,100 jobs will be added in manufacturing — including 1,400 in motor vehicle manufacturing — and 2,700 in construction. “The more modest job growth in manufacturing reflects a typical recovery from a severe recession — rapid job gains in the immediate recovery period followed by more modest gains,” Grimes said. “Within the construction industry, most of the job gains are the result of increased residential construction activity, while industrial and commercial Job Sectors 11%

“This is good progress, indeed, but it leaves some ground to make up,” Fulton said. “The county, however, is especially noteworthy for its share of residents employed in professional and managerial occupations and for its residents’ high level of education, both of which bode well for future growth opportunities in higher-paid activities.

4% 7%

Job Sectors 42%

Professional Services Health Services Wholesale Retail Leisure and Hospitality

construction improves at a more modest pace.” Unlike the private sector in Oakland County, in which every major industry division will gain jobs this year and in each of the next two years, the government sector (which includes public education) will continue to suffer job losses—but at a much slower rate compared with the previous six years — until finally adding more than 200 jobs in 2015. Overall, Fulton and Grimes say that Oakland remains among the better local economies in the nation, ranking 10th among 36 comparable U.S. counties on a series of measures that indicate future economic prosperity.

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“Whether we assess Oakland County with respect to how it is positioned in key economic fundamentals across all regions of the United States or more restrictively among many of the elite local economies, it is hard not to see the county thriving as time goes on.” The 28th annual U-M forecast of Oakland County’s economy was sponsored by nine regional organizations.

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May 1-7, 2013

Page A-3

Changing the narrative is the call of nation’s civil rights leaders A dozen of the nation’s leading civil rights leaders told participants at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation’s 2013 America Healing Conference that mobilizing civic participation, collaborating on issues and changing the established narratives are the keys to addressing racism and moving the nation toward more equitable opportunities.

Mayor Bing

Detroit Mayor Dave Bing deciding another term in office

By Bankole Thompson

competitive.

CHRONICLE SENIOR EDITOR

Bing has been mum about his reelection prospects for a while, until last Friday afternoon when his office issued a brief statement indicating press availability at the clerk’s office.

In an unprecedented move, Detroit Mayor Dave Bing pulled petitions for a mayoral campaign as the May 14 deadline approaches without filling in the petition box that stipulates a run a for reelection April 25 at the second floor of the Coleman A. Young Building in the City Clerk’s Office. If Bing decides to run for another term, his inclusion will shake up the race and make the field of candidates, including former Detroit Medical Center CEO Mike Duggan and Wayne County Sheriff Benny Napoleon, more

frey’s Office by May 14, the cutoff date to submit signatures for a mayoral run. “When I make the decision to win then I’m in it to win it. This is a huge decision for anybody who is going to run,” Bing said. “If I’m going to go another four years I’ve got to make sure I touch base with all the people.”

“I have not obtained signatures. I’ve been in contact with citizens. The window is obviously open. I’ve said for several months that I’ve not made my mind yet. That is still true. The first step of the process is picking up signatures,” Bing told a gathering of journalists.

If he jumps in the race as the incumbent, Bing said he will declare that he’s running to continue to fix Detroit noting, “We’ve made some positive things happen.”

Bing will need 500 signatures submitted to City Clerk Janice Win-

In an era of an Emergency Financial Manager (EFM) overseeing Detroit,

Detroiter honored by White House speaks out on environmental justice By Patrick Keating

important because when you have a community that has been historically overburdened with these noxious facilities, you’re going to have more environmental challenges.

CHRONICLE STAFF WRITER

Kimberly Hill Knott, senior policy manager at Detroiters Working For Environmental Justice (DWEJ) and project director for the Detroit Climate Action Collaborative, said the three most pressing environmental justice issues for Detroiters are air quality, cumulative impact and climate change. A recent report stated that five of the state’s most toxic zip codes are located in the city of Detroit. “So that’s a major issue and the reason it’s a major issue is because of its impact on health,” she said. Knott said any time five of the most polluted zip codes are in one city, it will have great bearing on air quality. That, in turn, will have an impact on public health. “So when you look at issues like asthma and other respiratory illnesses, and even cancer, you’ll see that many of those conditions have been exacerbated by the constant exposure to these polluting facilities,” she said. Asked what the average person could do to address these issues, Knott said people can reduce the risk within their own homes. People who smoke should stop, especially if they or their children have asthma or other respiratory ailments. “Really, the ultimate goal there is to stop and get the treatment, and go through the treatment that’s necessary to do that,” she said. She also said if there’s lead paint or mold or asbestos, then people would have to work with and identify agencies that can remediate those particular issues. Many non-profits can do that. If this is done properly, people could see a significant improvement in their household as it pertains to health. “Now, when you have pollution, some of the issues have to be remedied at a higher level,”

There has to be a measure in place that says a particular community has been overburdened for too long.

Kimberly Hill Knott she said. “In other words, it obviously has to be the company. Or the source of pollution must be dealt with. But also there are legislative factors or elected officials that play a key role in addressing those issues. So you have an issue of promoting responsible businesses that readily embrace sustainability practices that would focus on effective pollution control measures.” Knott noted that the DWEJ believes environmental justice must be addressed at multiple levels — the community, residential, corporate and legislative levels. “When this particular method is used to reduce pollution, inevitably, we will be able to create an effective system that works for everybody,” she said, adding that a cleaner and greener business operates more efficiently. “Which means there’s a cost benefit,” she said, also pointing out that it reduces the challenge on the community, because now people are healthier. “Many of the people who are being plagued by these conditions the people in the poorest communities,” she said. “And as a result, they do not have the necessary resources to perhaps get the necessary treatment that is required.” These people may not have health insurance and end up going to the emergency room to handle a situation that may be appropriately addressed in a long-term fashion if they had a doctor to visit on a regular basis. She noted that there’s legislation that looks at is how much pollution is one particular area, and added that it’s critically

“So we need to look at whether to place this particular facility in another community or just not allow for an expansion at this time.” She said the legislation would address this issue. On April 11, Kimbrerly Hill Knott was honored by the White House Champions of Change program as a Community Resilience Leader. She represented Detroit as one of 12 champions of change. This came about as an indirect result of a 2011 meeting between Detroiters Working for Environmental Justice and key stakeholders to determine the feasibility of launching a climate action plan for the city. After much discussion, they formed the Detroit Climate Action Collaborative. The DWEJ has partnered with the U of M school of natural resources to conduct the greenhouse gas inventory. Knott said the DWEJ has a dynamic team of people putting together seven work groups: • Homes and neighborhoods • Parks, public space, and water infrastructure. • Public health • Transportation • Solid waste • business institution, • Energy. She a big part of the climate action plan will be focusing on mitigation, which looks at the causes, and adaptation, which looks at how to reduce the risk. That’s important because projections show heat and flooding are two of the major issues that are caused by climate change.

some critics have dismissed the mayor’s race as having less significance because the EFM, Kevin Orr, potentially could be in charge of the city beyond the stipulated 18 months he’s required to stay. “I accept the fact that the emergency manager is here and has the final say. I’m going to work with that team. I’m a team player,” Bing said. “It’s about fixing the city. We’ve got a lot of people that need help. The goal has to be about fixing the city. It’s not going to be an easy decision.” Bing said continuing to fight the emergency manager is counterproductive because “I think the city is better off working with the emergency manager as opposed to working against him. We need the state involvement and support. We need outside support.” Bing will hold another media availability in the coming days during which he will declare whether or not he is officially in the race for mayor. E-mail bthompson@michronicle.com

Moderated by acclaimed broadcast journalist Soledad O’Brien, the panelists cited the critical role of narratives in shaping the most important public and social policy issues of the day. Much of the conversation addressed the modern environment for seeking change, citing the emergence of new priorities and methods. Rinku Sen, president and executive director of the Applied Research Center, noted that policy and mindset change are critical. She articulated how people of color are cast in particular roles. Sen said, “And if we want to change the role that we’re given, the way that we are cast, we have to tell a set of stories again and again and again and again, and in many different ways.” Sen reflected on the successful efforts to remove the word “illegal” for undocumented immigrants from the media lexicon. Both the Associated Press and USA Today have done so and others are moving toward it. Ultimately, she said, it helped push for a new immigration policy. Ben Jealous, president and CEO of the NAACP, reminded the audience of the need to be inclusive in approaches to changing the narratives.

“When we talked about a new majority, if our new majority doesn’t have a vision for White folks who’ve been locked in poverty generationally, then we’re never going to quite get there.” President and CEO of the National Council of La Raza Janet Murguía celebrated recent gains in this work with conference participants. “And now I tell people, I correct them, we created this moment, and we did so by overcoming incredible barriers.” Moving forward, Jacqueline Pata, executive director of the National Congress of American Indians, encouraged participants to continue working to change the narratives through personal relationships: “I believe all of you should be having dinner table conversations. and make sure that you invite different peoples of color that you promote those conversations, because I believe that’s where we’re going.” Sen, Murguía, Jealous and Pata participated on the panel with Kathleen Ko Chin, president and chief executive officer of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum; Ralph Everett, president and chief executive officer of the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies Inc.; Alvin Herring, director of training at the PICO National Network; Marc Morial, president of the National Urban League Inc.; Miles Rapoport, president of D mos: A Network for Ideas and Action; and Philip Tegeler, executive director of the Poverty & Race Research Action Council.

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Library hanging over the Detroit Public Library like the Sword of Damocles, officials from the library, including Executive Director Jo Anne Mondowney and Library Commission President Russell Bellant, are on an aggressive mission to separate fact from fiction in an effort to maintain the institution’s reputation. The case they are making is that the actions of one or few individuals who are still going to have their day in court should not be used to paint the library with a wide brush considering what it has meant in this community for decades. “The memory is going to be there. We still have to deal with the fact that it happened. We can’t keep getting beat up for it because everybody wasn’t a part of it,” Mondowney said during an interview in my office last week, noting that there is still an ongoing investigation. “You would think the library would be (exempt) from that kind of behavior but we’re not.” During the entire ordeal and the federal probe that made the library garner national attention, Mondowney said, “It was something I had to deal with and take responsibility for which I did. I tried to investigate and determine how to respond. And because I’m from Baltimore, I had the courage and strength to stand up to what was happening. I did not make excuses.” Witnessing what was happening for Mon downey meant that it was time to not let the reputation of an institution of this stature go down the drain because “this is a fine institution that deserved to be exonerated and I was the person that could help with what was happening.” Given where things are and the fact that the federal probe is still continuing, she said the leadership of the library will have to be more accountable because “people trust us with their money.”

Detroit, live from New York City

From page A-1 Commissioner Bellant, who is also a union leader, said even though the library was hit with this scandal it should not be misconstrued as a failure of the entire leadership.

By Herb Boyd SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE

He cited as an example the Detroit Public Schools, where he said past allegations of mismanagement were far more rampant saying what happened at DPS is not equal to the allegations facing the library. “When it happened we as a commission issued a statement that reflected the commission’s view that we will cooperate fully. But what happened at DPS was so systematic and widespread, and the library was one person. By comparison, the library had a clean bill of health,” Bellant said. “You can’t see services being undermined while people profit for themselves. We have a lot of young people using the library.”

Mondowney agrees.

“The public has raised some questions about what has happened but it has not prevented people from coming,” Mondowney said. “We are important in many communities and we are usually the last institution to leave the community.” Even though the library is currently reviewing policies and instituting internal controls to avert what happened in its technology department that is still under investigation, Mondowney said, “Rules are as good as the folks who implement them and there are people who find a way to get around and do wrong. That’s why the law is there.” The library’s role cannot be dismissed no matter what has happened, Mondowney said. “The public has seen us as an institution that has tried to minimize the digital divide. We provide that role in a daily basis,” She said. “In our Main Library we have a literacy program and technology has made the library far more relevant. There is a

May 1-7, 2013 Page A-4

need to stay connected. We have people accessing our computers every single day.” Mondowney, who has been on the job now since 2009 as director, said her vision is weaved into the library’s mission. “We find hope for people. We create an environment of lifelong learning. We know as technology evolves libraries are still needed to help people maintain a quality of life in this society,” Mondowney said. The challenge now is about revenue and how the library continues to provide services that are beyond the wrongdoing that has been reported. “It is not going to derail us from looking hard at the central question,” Mondowney said. “We provide very creative summer reading programs that help children maintain a reading level that allows them to excel. You accomplish something when you help a child to love to read. The library tries to teach a child to love to do this and our programs are centered around keeping children excited and engaged in the love of reading.” In the coming months and years, the library’s leadership will continue to face the questions in the financial scandal, but the challenge remains on its ability to show in

concrete terms what it is doing to prevent misdeeds of some on its staff, the kind that can lead to deplorable and embarassing sitiuations such as this one. These questions and any improvement to its operating standard as it relates to guarding tax dollars takes on a more central role as the library works to renew its existing millage which will expire in 2015. Public libraries are important because they contribute not only to our democracy, but also to education and the lifelong learning that those who spend hours in the library researching information benefit from. Bankole Thompson is editor of the Michigan Chronicle and the author of the forthcoming book “Rising From the Ashes: Engaging Detroit’s Future With Courage.” His book “Obama and Black Loyalty,” published in 2010, follows his recent book, “Obama and Christian Loyalty” with an epilogue by Bob Weiner, former White House spokesman. Thompson is a political news analyst at WDET101.9FM (NPR affiliate) and a member of the weekly “Obama Watch” Sunday evening roundtable on WLIB-1190AM New York and simulcast in New Jersey and Connecticut. E-mail bthompson@michronicle.com or visit his personal page at www.bankolethompson. com.

It may be less than an hour-long train ride from the Lunt-Fontanne Theater at Times Square where “Motown: The Musical” is currently being presented to The Roulette performance space in Brooklyn where on a recent Saturday evening the gentle giant Yusef Lateef was in concert with percussionist Adam Rudolph, but the music was light years apart. What the events have in common is Detroit. Both Berry Gordy, Jr. the founder of Motown and whose autobiography “To Be Loved,” is the wellspring of the musical, and Lateef courted their muses on similar turf, beginning in the city’s legendary Black Bottom and its potent entertainment offspring, Paradise Valley. While there may be no direct connection between Gordy and Lateef, they share a number of common threads, and more than a cursory examination of their résumés will reveal that some of the musicians who labored in the studios backing some of the Motown singers also found time to jam with Lateef during his formative years in the city. Neither Gordy nor Lateef now reside in Detroit —Gordy is on the West Coast and Lateef, for the most part, dwells on the East Coast in Amherst, Massachusetts. That both men in their advanced ages are currently active — Gordy at 82, and the show’s producer, and Lateef at 92 — is remarkable, especially for Black men. There’s a good chance they bumped into each other in the night clubs, particularly the Flame Show Bar or Klein’s, respectively, where Gordy at one time was an aspiring photographer and Lateef was at the helm of his many ensembles. Both venues for these former Detroiters were packed with patrons.

SEMCOG will not only negatively impact DDOT, but also Detroit’s overall budget. “We have just sent our budget up to City Council and it’s a tough budget,” Bing said. “A lot of work to be done. But now with the risk of losing $7 million of transportation funding, I’m really not sure where I can do any more cuts in our budget without having major impact on some of the services we need to provide to our citizens.” Bing reiterated that the loss of funding would have a negative impact on so many people in need.

Authority teachers or administrators. While Snyder initially defended his administration’s endorsement of the group and its methods of meeting, he quickly changed directions. “The governor still is very interested in studying how current and future technologies can improve education delivery and outcomes for Michigan students,” Flanagan said recently to a gathering of school business officials in Grand Rapids. “At my urging, I believe the governor feels that these issues are best served by being in an open and public process, and he asked me to be directly involved.” In a press release statement issued on April 24, Flanagan expressed that the reform group would adopt an inclusive process by extending invitations to the State Board of Education, K-12 education stakeholders, early childhood education stakeholders, school business officials, teacher preparation programs, education technology experts, colleges, career and technical education leaders, post-secondary programs and the public. Flanagan also emphasized that the group will not discuss school vouchers, and that any savings that may be realized from the use of technology will be reinvested back into the schools. “Kids today are wired into technology from an early age,” Flanagan said. “We must adapt our system of education to be customized to their learning tools, and not the learning tools with which their parents and grandparents were taught.” For House Democratic Leader Tim Greimel (D-Auburn Hills), the governor’s latest decision is a step in the right direction. Greimel had earlier denounced

From page A-1 the governor’s advocacy of the secret group. “It was very disturbing that the governor had this secret group form and meet without any form of transparency,” Greimel said during a phone interview. “The group’s name, ‘skunk work’ really said it all. The governor and his administration probably realized that this looked bad and that they needed to back peddle.” On the reform group’s new direction: “It is certainly an improvement to have Superintendent Flanagan lead the group. But more importantly, it’s making sure that the process is transparent and that the public have an opportunity to participate and provide input. Most importantly, there needs to be the involvement of educators to shape this discussion group.” On technology as a short cut to quality education: “There are no shortcuts when it comes to quality education,” Greimel said. “You can’t sit kids in front of a computer screen and expect they’ll get the same amount of personal attention and help as they would from a teacher. It’s time to stop thinking of public schools as an expense, when in reality they are the best investment that we can make.” Greimel said that he plans to meet with Flanagan regarding the direction of the group. “I hope to reach out to him next week about my concerns and the need for the process to be more transparent,” said Greimel. “Certainly there may be some disagreement over policy, but if the process is transparent, at least the public can have a discussion in the open.”

“I am sensitive to the fact that in the communities that you serve, there are also people in need,” he said. “But I wonder why, as we look at almost eight months into this budget period, we’re ready to make a change. My question is why now? Why is it so important to do this now?” He also said many people have emailed him with grave concern about the impact this decision would have on them, and asked the executive committee to vote with sensitivity. “I think we are now starting, as a region, to see that working together is better than doing everything separate and apart from each other,” Bing said. During the public comment period, State Sen. Bert Johnson (D-Detroit) said shifting these funds to provide SMART with 51 percent and DDOT with 47 percent is misguided, and that pinning the blame on the FTA will not work. Johnson also said the FTA maintains that local leaders make funding decisions based on demonstrated need. “Simply put, DDOT has a greater demonstrable need for the federal fund-

Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson and Marvin Gaye, and performances by the Temptations and the Jackson 5 dominate the musical; even so, it was nice to see a few of the less heralded songwriters and producers such as Mickey Stevenson, Norman Whitfield, and Lamont Dozier and the Holland brothers at least get a mention. Though this was Gordy’s version of the legal disputes between them, one wonders how Brian Holland (who attended the first preview performance) reacted to Gordy’s interpretation. Lateef’s venture was not a rush of nostalgia but a presentation of his compositions performed by a string quartet, a trio of horns, a solo pianist, and, finally, by Lateef and Rudolph. If any in the audience came with the expectation of hearing the hard-charging, blues infected music Lateef perfected and popularized in the past, they were sorely disappointed. Fortunately, this was a younger crowd who has grown accustomed to the evolved Lateef, and this phase of his seemingly endless career has been thoughtfully nurtured and enhanced by Rudolph’s love and affection. Each one of the pieces bore a similarity as they moved from instrumentation to instrumentation, a kind of airy, atmospheric mood with a peaceful resolution, free of tension and conflict. The only blues moments came during Lateef’s duet with Rudolph, and it was most engrossing with Rudolph providing a deep drone-like beat on a large, clay vessel while Lateef on oboe took at least one listener back to Hastings Street. With Lateef showing no signs of surrendering to Father Time and Gordy as indefatigable and creative as ever, this fresh gloss on Detroit may give the city the sunny disposition that lit the way “back in the day.” Yes, Detroit lives!

From page A-1 ing than those SMART,” Johnson said. Rev. Joan Ross, who represents a transportation coalition called the North End Woodward Community Coalition, said her group has been struggling with the issue of transportation for the past three years. She said 35 to 40 percent of people in her community don’t have cars. “We’re in a community of seniors, a community of students, a community of people who are barely making it day by day,” Ross said. She asked, on behalf of that community, who she said constitute much of the 100,000 riders per day that DDOT is struggling to serve, that the funding formula be based on ridership. Ross said justice dictates that DDOT should be a priority for public transportation, also noting that regional transit decisions

Montgomery said cutting the federal dollars for the DDOT system would hurt all those people. “It’s unconscionable,” she said, adding that if the money were distributed according to the number of people who actually ride the bus, Detroit would be entitled to 81 percent. “We’re satisfied with 65, which is what we’ve received up to this point,” she said. Montgomery pleaded with SEMCOG members to consider the people of Detroit. “I want to get the people in our city employed,” she said. “If they do not have transportation to get to a job in the suburbs, if there are no jobs in the city, then they will remain unemployed.” Joel Batterman, transportation coordinator for the Michigan Suburbs Alliance which represents inner ring suburbs, said

should be left to the Regional Transit Authority. Kathy Montgomery, a candidate for City Council, District 1, said she was concerned about the possibility that SEMCOG would decide to lower the amount of money DDOT receives. She also pointed out that many Detroiters are either unemployed or on some kind of public assistance, and therefore are extremely low income. “They do not have cars,” she said. “They must get around on public transportation.”

his organization is an advocate for regional cooperation and that many people are served by both transit lines. Batterman also said diminished funding for DDOT means fewer riders can access SMART and vice versa. “To create the kind of transit system that our region deserves, we must improve service in the suburbs and the city, on both local routes and regional corridors,” he said, adding that for too long metro Detroit has been a house divided.

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

May 1-7, 2013

Page A-5

Mayor bing kicks off motor city makeover, citywide cleanup and beautification effort Join volunteers cleaning up neighborhoods, May 4, 11 and 18

area or call (313) 224-3450 or their local Recreation Community Affairs office for a location.

Mayor Dave Bing kicked off Motor City Makeover 2013 by encouraging Detroit residents and individuals from surrounding communities to join hundreds of volunteers cleaning neighborhoods throughout the city on the first three Saturdays in May. The mayor made the announcement at Crowell Recreation Center on Detroit’s northwest side.

• Beautify their area by planting flowers, plants, or trees, or by removing graffiti, etc. • Report abandoned vehicles (inoperable, without a valid license plate and on public property for at least 48 hours) by calling (313) 221-2571. In addition, volunteers may take bagged litter to any of the five drop-off locations listed below, which will be open on the three Saturday cleanup dates.

Motor City Makeover is a bagged litter campaig that encourages volunteers to participate in a citywide cleanup by sector on May 4, 11 and 18. The campaign is part of a larger city initiative called Keep Detroit Beautiful, which focuses on cleaning, beautification, recycling, adopting parks and vacant lots, and gardening.

Bulk Drop-Off Locations Limit is one cubic yard or 1,000 pounds.

“It’s great to see people who believe in Detroit working together, cleaning yards and parks and making their neighborhoods more attractive places for all to enjoy,” said Mayor Bing. Individuals and community groups must register with the City of Detroit Recreation Community Affairs office in order to receive a limited supply of bags and gloves, as well as information regarding special pickups of bagged litter and roll-off containers. There will be no curbside pickup of bagged litter. The east sector will be cleaned on Saturday, May 4. The west sector will be cleaned on Saturday, May 11, and the central and southwest sectors will be

Bulk Drop-Off Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. • Davison Yard, 8221 West Davison • Southfield Yard, 12255 Southfield Service Dr. • 5840 Anthon, between Cavalry and Campbell • State Fair Yard, 19715 John R cleaned on Saturday, May 18. Residents, business owners, houses of worship, block clubs and schools are encouraged to: • Call (313) 224-3450 to register to join the cleanup effort or register online at www.MotorCityMakeover.org.

• Clean the area around their home, business, house of worship, or school on the Saturday designated for their sector. • Organize their neighborhoods or their employees for a massive group cleanup. Volunteers can select a nearby

• J. Fons Transfer Station, 6451 E. McNichols, Monday-Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The mayor also recognized Motor City Makeover sponsors for 2013, including Keep Detroit Beautiful, Waste Management, Glad, Nestle, Home Depot and Can You Picture This.

Pelosi wins praise at NAACP Freedom Fund Dinner tainability, we have to build confidence. ... We have to do this to enable everyone in America to achieve prosperity. We must address disparities in quality and in income,” said Pelosi.

By Roz Edward Since its inception, the NAACP’s Annual Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner in Detroit has been known as the largest sit-down dinner in the world. The list of keynote speakers has included President Barack Obama, President Bill Clinton, Vice President Al Gore, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder. On Sunday, April 29, the Democratic leader of the U.S. House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, stood at the podium and delivered the historic organization’s keynote address at the 2013 Fight for Fight

She may best be known for spearheading passage of the historic health insurance reform legislation in the House of Representatives, which established a Patient’s Bill of Rights and will provide insurance for more Americans while lowering health care costs over the long term. Pelosi also encouraged all Americans to recognize the dignity and worth of every human being, emphasizing the importance of creating a society at peace with itself.

Rev. Wendell Ånthony (left) Nancy Pelosi and Donell White, executive director of the Detroit Branch NAACP. for Freedom Fund Dinner. Pelosi a 26-yaar veteran of the U.S. Congress, spoke solemnly about the challenges the nation faces.

Bankole Thompson

“We didn’t invite Nancy Pelosi because she is a Democrat,” said the Rev. Wendell Anthony, president of the Detroit Branch NAACP, the largest and most active branch in the nation. “We invited her because when we call on her (for

assistance) she will push open the gates, and if she can’t push them open, she will climb over the gate, and if that doesn’t work, she will parachute in.” Following a nod and acknowledgement to Alabama congresswoman Terri Sewell, the first Black woman to be elected to Congress from that state, for introducing a House bill to honor the four little girls killed in an Alabama church

bombing in 1963. Pelosi went on to inspire the 10,000-plus Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner audience members with one of her favorite Dr. King quotes, “Freedom must never be defaulted, it must forever be exalted!” The popular politician then outlined her plan for making change in America.

Other dinner highlights included prestigious awards to 108-year-old Emma Didlake, who received the James Weldon Johnson Lifetime Achievement Award; Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, who received the Ida B. Wells Freedom Fund & Justice Award; Councilwoman JoAnn Watson received the Mary Church Terrell Freedom and Justice Award; and Michigan Chronicle Senior Editor Bankole Thompson received the Great Expectations Award. Against the backdrop of the most successful NAACP Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner in history, a small group of BANCO protestors marched outside of Cobo Hall, calling for the resignation of all Detroit Branch board members.

“To achieve economic sus-

Building Authority receives numerous awards for management of Coleman A. Young Municipal Center The Detroit Wayne Joint Building Authority, owner, manager and operator of the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, formerly the City County Building, has been recognized by federal, state and local organizations for management best practices and operational standards.

they are the benchmark for industry excellence,” said Sharon of Carruthers, Newmark Grubb Knight Frank and TOBY Award Chair for BOMA of Metro Detroit. “Having judged the Coleman A. Young building for BOMA, I can attest the transformation, though still ongoing, has been nothing short of remarkable,” said Kirk VanMeerbeeck, BOMA member and TOBY judge.

The Building Owners & Managers Association (BOMA) announced that the 2012 Outstanding Building of the Year (TOBY) award for government buildings went to the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center). The Building Authority has been the recipient of the TOBY Award for two consecutive years as a member of the BOMA North Central Region consisting of Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan and Ohio. The award was received for “a superior managed government building in Michigan recognizing continuous improvements and reducing annual operating expenses.” Founded in 1908, BOMA is a professional trade association whose members either own or manage commercial real estate, or provide goods and services to the industry. The TOBY Awards is recognized as the most prestigious and comprehensive program of its kind in commercial real estate for excellence in building management and operations in specific categories based on building size and/or type. All facets of a building’s operations are

‘In 2012, the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), awarded the Building Authority with its seventh consecutive ENERGY STAR; the national symbol for superior leadership in energy efficiencies and environmental protection achievements.

thoroughly evaluated, including tenant relations programs, community involvement, emergency preparedness, environmental stewardship, security standards, and continuing edu-

cation for building personnel. “TOBY winners represent the commercial real estate industry’s best of the best in the office management setting;

The Detroit Audubon Society and Michigan Audubon recognized the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center in 2012 for its support of Safe Passage Great Lakes, stating that, “By agreeing to turn off unnecessary lighting in your building during bird migration seasons, you have shown a deep understanding of helping to provide safe passage through the Great Lakes for thousands of night-migrating birds. In addition, you have recognized the reduction in electricity usageand therefore, air pollution that turning off unnecessary lights provides.” “In our continuous efforts in best-practices in management and environmental principles,

the Authority uses standards and benchmarks that measure effective and sustainable operational and cost efficiencies,” states DWJA Executive Director Gregory McDuffee. “Every initiative is focused on making CAYMC cost-effective for taxpayers and a fully accessible, safe and welcoming environment for building employees and visitors.” The Detroit Wayne Joint Building Authority was created in 1948 for the purpose developing and managing the 745,000 square foot Coleman A. Young Municipal Center (previously the City-County Building) with construction completed in 1955 at a cost of $26,000,000. The Authority is governed by a three-member Board of Commissioners with the Commissioners appointed by the legislative branches of the City of Detroit and County of Wayne. The Chairperson is Patricia A. Cole, representing the City of Detroit; the Treasurer is Steven Ogden, representing the County of Wayne; and the Recording Secretary is Lugene Nelson, whose appointment is confirmed by both legislative branches. Major tenants are the City of Detroit’s Executive and Legislative Branches, the city of Detroit and the Wayne County Clerk’s offices, and the Wayne County Probate and the 3rd Judicial Circuit Courts.

Page A-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • May 1-7, 2013

section B

Community

The importance of choice

michiganchronicle.com

May 1-7, 2013

By Tonya Allen

Parents have more school choices than ever, and that should be a good thing. But how good a thing that is depends deeply on two things: the quality of choices available and how informed the parent population is. School choice is only a choice if parents are making informed options between quality schools. I say that as someone who attended eight schools growing up in Detroit. But it wasn’t because my mom was always making well informed choices, hopping from underperforming schools to better ones. No, it was due mainly to the transient nature of Tonya Allen our lives. As my mother found new work or better rent, we moved, and whatever neighborhood school was nearby was where I ended up. Today, there are still many Detroit families who change schools because of choices that have little to do with academic options. But the fact is that parents today do have more responsibility and opportunity to do better and consider than families 30 years go. The debate must extend beyond public or private, or public or charter. The truth is there are good schools, and very poor schools, in any model you consider. We should place children and their outcomes at the center and frame the debate around quality; then we should support schools that deliver it and help parents find those schools. The Skillman Foundation, which has worked in Detroit schools for more than 25 years, works with Detroit Public Schools, the Education Achievement Authority, various public charter schools and private schools. Our interest is the same as parents: We want children to have the best education possible. So we place more value on what results the schools deliver than to who runs the schools. We encourage parents to do the same. We work to support measures that help schools of all types increase quality, from the public schools that educate just under half of the city’s children, to the newest charters. And we believe all schools should be held accountable by making available relevant and comparable data on how they’re doing. That’s becoming more common in Detroit, with the work of organizations like Excellent Schools Detroit, which released a report card on the best and worst K-8 schools, based on MEAP scores, this week. A fuller report is coming this summer. As parents, we must think about these things when making a decision about where to send your child. What is the school’s academic track record? We have found schools that do academics well typically do support services and safety well, too. Next, question the marketing promises schools make and do your own research. The Detroit marketplace is saturated with schools not at full capacity; they want your child in a seat. Make sure what they sell you about themselves stacks up to reality by visiting www.excellentschoolsdetroit.org.

DPS goes on the offense, mascot hits the streets to promote the district’s schools By Cathy Nedd

etroit Public Schools’ Blue Door Mascot, named Hope, has been hitting the streets to promote the great things happening at DPS. Going on the offense to increase enrollment at the district, the mascot passes out literature to parents outside of charter schools in highly competitive areas. DPS enrollment fell to

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about 52,503 as a result of 15 schools being transferred to the Education Achievement Authority of Michigan (EAA), a state reform district that can assume control of poor performing schools. A decade ago, DPS comprised 164,000 students. The sharp enrollment decline is a result of many factors, including competition with charter and suburban schools and the EAA. Officials project that enrollment could continue to decline over the next five years.

In a letter written to DPS employees in late January of this year, Roy Roberts, the state-appointed emergency financial manager, wrote, “We’re going on the offense! No longer are we going to create plans designed around assumptions of failure. Instead of planning to fail, we’re planning to win by attracting students to our district’s classrooms.” This month, the district unveiled a new strategic plan titled “Neighborhood-Centered, Quality Schools.” The plan was designed specifically to compete with other schools that have been attracting Detroit students. Acknowledging the competition is good, Roberts said, “From this point forward, we’re planning to win, not to lose.” Highlights of the plan, which will be rolled out over the next three years, include expanded pre-kindergarten classes to 4-year old children, some parenting, job skills and other training, extended academic school years, and art and music enrichment programming. Roberts said that DPS will evolve to address the needs of students and families. “Nobody’s going to give us any students. We have to go out and take them,” he said.

Also, apply early. Because there aren’t enough high-quality schools, spots in these schools go fast. Think about how the school is preparing students for a future that is increasingly technologically driven. And finally, don’t be discouraged. If you need help, ask for it. Try a resource like the Detroit Parent Network, an organization that helps parents cut through the clutter and understand what options are available. Tonya Allen is The Skillman Foundation chief operating officer and incoming president. Follow her on Twitter at @allen_tonya. APRIL 2013 • ACHIEVE

community

May 1-7, 2013

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Page B-2

TJ Max surprises Jackets For Jobs with generous cash gift By Cathy Nedd T.J. Maxx unexpectedly presented a $10,000 cash gift to Alison Vaughn, founder and president of Jackets for Jobs, at the organization’s 13th anniversary gala, which was recently held at the Doubletree Suites Hotel in downtown Detroit.

Chevrolet kicks off summer with soccer donation in Detroit Chevrolet will make a special delivery of 1,350 virtually indestructible One World Futbols, bringing the “power of play” to children in Detroit with the help of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Detroit. “We’re applying our very global partnership with the One World Futbol Project at a very local level,” said General Motors North America President Mark Reuss. “Thousands of children right here in Detroit will benefit from this donation.” Chevrolet teamed up with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Detroit to donate balls to the Detroit Police Athletic League and 23 Detroit Public Schools. Chevrolet and the GM Foundation are both committed to supporting the City of Detroit. Over the past three years, the GM Foundation has granted nearly $21.5 million to vital nonprofits and cultural institutions within the city, including United Way for Southeastern Michigan, Focus: HOPE, Karmanos Cancer Institute, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Michigan Science Center. One World Futbols are designed to outlast and outplay hundreds of regular soccer balls, sustaining play in any environment. The ball never needs a pump and never deflates even when punctured, making it ideal for play in all types of terrain such as concrete, blacktop, dirt, rocky fields or grass, and harsh environments. “Our mission at One World Futbol Project is to keep the spirit of play alive for youth around the world through the simple power of a durable ball,’” said Lisa Tarver co-founder and chief operating officer at One World Futbol Project. “We are excited to join Chevrolet in making a

positive difference for thousands of children around Detroit and witnessing the power of play in action.” The initiative is part of Chevrolet’s three-year partnership with One World Futbol Project that pledges to place 1.5 million One World Futbols with youth in war-stricken zones, refugee camps, disaster areas, and other underprivileged communities around the world. Chevrolet is the founding sponsor of One World Futbol Project, which was established in 2010 and has since touched millions of young lives with the power of play in nearly 160 countries. One World Futbol inventor, Tim Jahnigen, was inspired to create the ball after watching news footage of kids in Darfur playing a soccer game using a ball of trash tied up with twine. It was then that Jahnigen decided to develop a ball that would play like a real soccer ball but would not be destroyed by the harsh conditions often facing young soccer players in many parts of the world. Individuals can support One World Futbol Project through the “Buy One, Give One” program. With each purchase of a Chevrolet-branded gold ball, another ball is donated to an organization working in a disadvantaged community around the world. Fans of Chevrolet receive $5 off the $39.50 price (plus shipping) when they use the special discount code “ChevyOWFP.” For more information on Chevrolet and its One World Futbol efforts, visit www.ChevroletFC.com, like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ChevroletFC, follow us on Twitter @ChevroletFC. com (#DrivenBy) or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/ user/ChevroletFC.

Local Wheelchair Basketball Team wins national championship DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan’s (RIM) wheelchair basketball team, the Detroit Diehards, are the 2013 National Wheelchair Basketball Association’s (NWBA) Division III National Champions. The team recently defeated Tampa Bay in the finals during the NWBA tournament in Louisville, Kentucky. This was the team’s fourth appearance in the tournament and their first national championship win. The Detroit Diehards were one of 24 Division III teams competing in the tournament held April 18-21, and the only team to go undefeated during tournament play. The 8-member team is comprised of athletes with physical disabilities, aged 18 to 40 from throughout southeast Michigan. The team was 10-4 during regular season play and was ranked third going into the tournament. Several team members also received special honors. Eighteen

year-old, double amputee, Jesus Villa, who hit a game winning shot during the semi-final game, was named MVP of the tournament. Hurie Johnson was named to the 1st Team All-Tournament and Kevin Konfara and Deon Vereen were named to the 2nd Team All-Tournament. The NWBA is comprised of more than 200 wheelchair basketball teams within twenty-two conferences. Founded in 1948, the NWBA today consists of men’s, women’s, intercollegiate, and youth teams throughout the United States of America and Canada. The Rehabilitation Institute has been sponsor-

Northeast Guidance Center hosts Anti-Stigma Forum in recognition of Mental Health Month The Northeast Guidance Center and the Michigan 14th Congressional Democratic District present an Anti-Stigma Forum in celebration of Mental Health Month. The forum will be held at the Northeast Guidance Center 2900 Connor, Building A, in Detroit on Thursday, May 9, from 5 to 8 p.m. Dr. Michele Reid, medical director at Community Network Services, will speak from the medical perspective in addition to Dana Parker-Mathis, founder of the non-profit organization, Dig My Roots Foundation, who struggled for almost 20 years with psychosis and was diagnosed with schizo-affective disorder. For additional information, contact David Watkins at 313-308-1508 or visit dwatkins@neguidance.org.

ing the Detroit Diehards since 2002. The team is supported through grants, donations, and fundraising events such as an annual “Celebrity Wheelchair Basketbal Game.” DMC’s Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan is one of the nation’s largest hospitals specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation. The Institute is home to many innovative programs, including the Center for Spinal Cord Injury Recovery, a worldclass facility designed to implement and study innovative treatments in spinal cord injury recovery. RIM is one of eight hospitals operated by the Detroit Medical Center.

“We value tremendously our relationship with Jackets For Jobs and we love the work they do,” said Jerome Smalls, vice president and director of community relations for TJX Corporation. “We just wanted to give Alison and her organization a small token of appreciation for impacting so many lives in a positive way.” Alison Vaughn was shaking with excitement after receiving the check. “I’m literally shaking right now,” said Vaughn. “This is just so wonderful and I want everyone to go shop at TJ Maxx today!” Lucille O’Neal (Shaq’s mom) was the keynote speaker. A surprise appearance was made by a close friend of O’Neal’s, Christine Johnson, the mother of Magic Johnson. O’Neal spoke of standing over six feet as a 12-year old girl, having low selfesteem, overcoming alcoholism and being poor. “I know firsthand just how important an organization like Jackets For Jobs is to the community,” said O’Neal. “I remember a time when I only had one suit. It was black, but I tell you what…

Five

Christine Johnson (Magic’s mom), Alison Vaughn, president, Jackets For Jobs, and Lucille O’Neal (Shaq’s mom). I kept that one suit clean and I kept it pressed. And every time I put it on, I felt good about myself.” O’Neil, who spoke before a standing room only audience of corporate sponsors, supporters and Jackets For Jobs clientele, is the author of the book “Walk Like You Have Somewhere to Go.” “We’re just so pleased with everything. Today was a phenomenal event and we are so appreciative for all the support,” said Vaughn. “Without sponsors like TJ Maxx we wouldn’t be here. Our goal is to keep helping our clients, making a difference for another 13 years.” Since opening its doors in 2000, Jackets

For Jobs, a non-profit organization that helps low income men and women make the transition to work by providing professional business attire and career counseling, has helped more than 14,000 people with employment. A Michigan Works! affiliate, the organization has been featured on ABC’s “The View,” NBC’s “Today Show” and Oprah Winfrey’s O magazine. A highlight of her career was the ringing of the closing bell on the NASDAQ. For more information about Jackets For Jobs, visit www.jacketsforjobs. org or call (313) 5799160.

big reasons to consider

Stinson Funeral Homes:

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

We work harder to earn your business. We can’t afford to provide anything less than impeccable service, or to leave you with less than the best impression possible.

You’re not just our client, you’re our boss. We don’t lose sight of who we’re working for. After all, you’re the one we answer to.

We arrange funerals, we don’t sell them. It is our responsibility to honor your wishes and respect your budget.

We like meeting families, not goals. Like you, we are a part of this community supporting our neighbors when they need us.

We spend time with you. Arranging a fitting tribute is important to you, and you don’t deserve to be rushed.

Two Locations to Service You: Stinson Chapel 16540 Meyers (313) 863-7300 Stinson-Diggs Chapel 1939 S. Fort St. (313) 386-8200 www.stinsonfuneralhomes.com

Rev. Gleo Wade, General Manager © adfinity

Community

May (all month) The Detroit Public Library offers computer training classes. 5201 Woodward Ave. The Technology, Literacy and Career Center continuously offers basic and intermediate computer training using Microsoft Word and Excel to Detroit residents.

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

This one-day community resource fair will feature more than 30 youth and family service organizations. In addition to to learning about healthy living and eating, attendees can also take part in fitness and dance classes including yoga, zumba and salsa. Information about housing and employment assistance, utility enrollment and budgeting, and food assistance will be available for parents. For information, contact Nalani Miller at (313) 272-1649 or visit www.mtacademy.us.

For more information call (313) 481-1363

May-June (all month) Detroit Children’s Choir registration Detroit Children’s Choir is an inclusive choir program focused on providing high quality choral music to metro Detroit area children from 8-14 years of age. For more information, visit www.detroitchildrenschoir.org.

May -August The Detroit Public Library Celebrates the 70th Anniversary Lecture Series. 6 p.m. Detroit Public Library. 5201 Woodward Ave. The E. Azalia Hackley Collection is part of the Library’s Special Collections Department. This lecture, titled “Don Cornelius: Riding the Soul Train,” will celebrate the contributions this iconic figure and his famous television show had on the music industry. This lecture is free and open to the public. For more information call (313) 481- 1397

May 2 Community Resource Fair 4:30-7:30 p.m. Michigan Technical Academy (MTA) 19940 Mansfield

May 5 7th Annual Detroit Mexican Town Cinco de Mayo Fun Run & Walk 11:30 a.m. Clark Park 1130 Clark Street, Detroit

May 1 - 7, 2013

Get Up, Get Fit! Total Health and Wellness Expo

May 16

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is hosting the Fourth Annual Tribal Economic Forum

City of Southfield Parks and Recreation Department 26000 Evergreen Rd., Southfield

9 a.m. Radisson Lansing Hotel 111 N. Grand Ave., Lansing During this two-day conference speakers will address a variety of topics including tribal business development, energy, agribusiness, funding programs and contracting. This event is open to the public and there is no cost to attend but registration is required For more information, visit http://www.regonlince.com/TribalForum.

May 17

This annual event celebrating Cinco de Mayo is a family fun occasion. All are welcome to attend. For more information on how to register call (313) 570- 4803

May 11

1 to 3 p.m. Redford Branch Library 21200 Grand River, Detroit. For beginners, starting a garden can be a challenge, but with basic knowledge and skills, a beautiful garden is possible. In this class you will learn how to select a site for your garden, when to plant seeds and transplants, essential watering skills, how to prepare the garden and much more. For more information call (313) 757- 2635

The focus of this expo is to encourage the community to incorporate regular physical activities in their lives, make healthier decisions, and raise awareness of health issues that impact the lives of many families. The event is free and open to the public. For more program information, contact Micheri Moses at (313) 912-7339 or e-mail cheri_moses@yahoo.com.

May 15 The Detroit Public Library Celebrates the 70th Anniversary Lecture Series. 6 p.m.

Dossin Great Lakes Museum’s Re-opening Gala 6 p.m. Belle Isle Park 100 Strand Dr. Come and celebrate the recently renovated facility on Detroit’s historic shores of Belle Isle Park. For more information, call (313) 833-1980

Keep Growing Detroit Presents the Get Ready to Grow! Basic Gardening Workshop.

Page B-3

Detroit Public Library 5201 Woodward Ave. The E. Azalia Hackley Collection is part of the Library’s Special Collections Department. This lecture, titled “Don Cornelius: Riding the Soul Train,” will celebrate the contributions this iconic figure and his famous television show had on the music industry. This lecture is free and open to the public. For more information call (313) 481- 1397

May 18

June 4

Lambda Chi Chapter of Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc, present a scholarship and fashion show luncheon

“Teens Using Drugs: What to Know and What to Do” workshop series.

11 a.m.- 2 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Burton Manor Banquet & Conference Center 27777 Schoolcraft, Livonia

St Joseph Mercy Hospital Education Center, 5305 Elliott Drive Ypsilanti.

Donations from this event will go towards scholarships to nursing students currently enrolled in an accredited college or university.

This free program is targeted primarily to parents of teens and will provide helpful information on understanding and recognizing teen substance abuse problems.

For more information, e-mail Mhall802003@yahoo.com.

For more information visit www.teensusingdrugs. org or call (734) 485- 8725.

Email Your Upcoming Events to events@michronicle.com now through mother’s day, sun, may 12 now through mother’s day, sun, may 12

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e-mail:chronicle4@aol.com May 1-7, 2013

Page B-4

The case for educational opportunity for children as young as four in Detroit By Glenda Price Earlier this year the Center For Michigan published a compendium of articles and reports titled “Michigan’s Forgotten 4Year-Olds.” This publication highlighted the major benefits of early childhood education, while also noting that there are significant numbers of children in the state that do not have access to the education that would put them on the road to success.

dation. The foundation has served as the fiduciary of these funds, and has worked collaboratively with the Office of Early Childhood Education and other partners, to provide teacher professional development, arts and science instruction, and field trips to a variety of venues throughout the region. Cranbrook Institute of Science, Detroit Parent Network and Music Hall have all played an important role in ensuring that 14 pre-K classrooms in DPS are able to provide cutting edge education for more than 200 children.

The inability for young children to begin their education at the time when Glenda Price they are most inquisitive As the district works and open to learning is especially prob- to achieve its strategic goals, it will be lematic in low-income families. essential for similar partnerships to With the recent publication of the emerge in every 4-year-old classroom. Detroit Public Schools Strategic Plan, Everyone in the community has a stake it is heartening to see a goal of univer- in the education of our youngest learnsal access to educational opportunities ers. The Strategic Plan is forward lookfor every 4-year-old in the city. The full ing and ambitious. It is an opportunity implementation of this goal will make a for everyone to get involved. It offers a major impact on the youngsters, their framework for the DPS Foundation, and families, and the schools as the children other concerned agencies to target our efforts in line with the needs and dimatriculate through later grades. rection of teachers and school leaders. For the past three years DPS has had Please visit www.detroitpsfoundation. the benefit of being a recipient of Grow org to make a gift, or www.detroitkUp Great funding from PNC Bank Foun- 12.org to view the full strategic plan.

Reclaiming the narrative This is also a nation of people with positive stories Just 100 miles from to tell about our communiwhere Trayvon Martin was ties, to tell about families killed, the slaying of an unof all different races and armed Black teenager that ethnicities -- the neighbors unleashed intense racial that we love and respect reanger and antagonism, gardless of the narratives there is a new example of dividing us. Americans are the racism and racial inworking together, finding sensitivities that continue common ground in diverse to punctuate our society. neighborhoods and bridging their differences to With Martin’s death still sustain racial harmony in a bitter memory, a Port Catheir communities, in their naveral Police Department schools and in an array of firearms instructor did the public and private instituunthinkable — Sgt. Ron tions, including the crimiKing offered paper targets Gail Christopher nal justice system. But resembling Martin to fellow officers for shooting practice in the Flor- these are the stories that aren’t reported ida town. King claims the targets were in the media and aren’t reflected enough teaching tools for what not to shoot at, in narratives regarding race. but his supervisors deemed his action In Michigan, the Arab Community inappropriate and he was fired last Center for Economic and Social Serweekend. vices is healing divisions between Arab Throughout each day, newspapers, and non-Arab Americans. The center the airwaves and Internet routinely engages communities to document and crackle with stories like this one, sto- share personal narratives and collective ries demonstrating that racism and histories of the national Arab American the centuries-old racial hierarchy still community’s experience after 9/11. It inexists. This destructive belief that skin cludes an exhibit, a series of public procolor makes one group of people supe- grams, educator’s workshops and comrior to another has dominated American munity dialogues. culture, our institutions and our narra- In New Orleans, the Ashé Cultural tives consciously or unconsciously for Center is utilizing art and culture to centuries. create a safe and healing space for all When Roland Martin says race played who come through its doors, especiala role in his firing from CNN, when racial ly young people in the community. Its incidents erupt at a high school in Grand Truth Be Told project includes commisHaven, Mich. or when there are a series sioning and producing original art works of hate messages at Oberlin College, all that are made available to other groups, these events are widely reported in the gatherings, and events to stimulate media. Not much adverse news about thinking and dialogue in the commuracial biasis missed with the 24/7 news nity. The center is expanding interracial cycle, abundant talk radio, social media participation in their commemorations channels and the ever-expanding blogo- and producing a series of film screenings, panel discussions, roundtables, sphere. and lectures to upgrade knowledge, But do these stories represent the thinking on race and the impact and inreal real story about our communities? fluence of racism. Not long ago, reporting on acts of And in Chicago, the Collateral Damage racism was considered progress. After Project conducts interactive research these media reports, it becomes less on gun violence, racial discrimination likely that incidents can be covered-up. and gang participation in urban commuOnce hostilities are out in the open, nities. It has resulted in a traveling exfrank and honest discussions can occur hibition, multi-media documentary and and perhaps lead to solutions that ad- the development of a social networking dress the root causes of racism. website for youth. Their work explores

By Gail Christopher

Yet those change and racism, both nize there is out there.

committed to positive healing the wounds of past and present, recogalso a changing America

the lives of 46 youths who lost their lives to gun violence and examines the destructive role that violence, discrimination and residential segregation play in urban communities.

How To Write Us: The Michigan Chronicle encourages letters from readers. Expressed opinions must bear the writer’s signature, address and phone number (only the names will published with the letters). Write: Reader’s Speak, Michigan Chronicle, 479 Ledyard, Detroit, MI 48201 or email the editor at chronicle4@ aol.com

Bing’s dark horse candidacy Quicken Loans CEO Dan Gilbert and partners are on a downtown building-buying spree. Other business leaders are supporting Bing by chipping in millions for the purchase of 23 new ambulances and 100 new police cruisers in the fight against crime.

By Bill Johnson I don’t have inside information about whether Detroit Mayor Dave Bing’s taking out petitions is an indication that he actually plans to throw his hat into the ring. I’m not convinced that if he seeks re-election he can win. I am certain of this: his potential candidacy makes a lot more sense than that of Tom Barrow.

Some 50 city parks will open this summer in part due to millions in corporate donations. Commu Bing’s flirtation with runnity groups, businesses, Bill Johnson ning was unexpected. He churches and block clubs now says he’ll huddle with close advis- will adopt more than 100 other parks. ers and family members before making a decision by the May 14 filing deadline. I think it’s folly, but a multimillion Come to think of it, his candidacy might dollar streetcar system is about to be be a healthy sign that the 2013 mayoral built — partly by private dollars — to campaign will be more vigorous and dy- shuttle passengers from the downtown area to Midtown. namic. Elected to a full four-year term in Don’t think for a moment that the 2009, Bing inherited a city with devas- mayor’s contemplated entry into the tating bureaucratic, fiscal, economic race won’t present a challenge to conand social problems. The environment tenders Mike Duggan, Benny Napoleon, was so severe, the problems so deep- Fred Durhal, Krystal Crittendon, Lisa seated, they were beyond his ability to Howze and Tom Barrow. manage. So while he can be criticized At some point, the major media will for not finding the creative energy to fix get around to focusing on the foibles of high taxes, high crime or burgeoning Mike Duggan, considered at the moment deficits that would eventually lead to an to be the man to beat. I’m sure he’d emergency manager, the lack of solu- prefer that some things in his political/ tions wasn’t entirely his fault. business life remain buried in history. The mayor received no help from a Sheriff Benny Napoleon is generally generally weak and recalcitrant City thought to be a finalist. But questions Council, which seemed more intent of also surround Napoleon’s prior and perpetuating its high-priced, high-perks current management styles. But then, existence than providing a high level voters will find something to criticize of services to the people its members with everyone in the race. claimed to represent. With appointment of an EM, the council has been effective- It is inconceivable that perennial candidate Tom Barrow believes he will be ly, albeit temporarily, neutered. taken seriously. Twice he challenged the Going forward, any mayor might be election outcome against Detroit Mayor more effective if the EM gets runaway Coleman Young and later mayoral hopespending under control and removes re- ful Dave Bing. In both cases, Barrow structuring obstacles in the City Charter claimed hanky-panky, rather than voter that gives the council veto over needed rejection, caused his defeat. reforms. He’s tried, but Barrow also can’t deny That Mayor Bing has never stopped his conviction for bank fraud, tax evafighting for the city is reinforced by cor- sion and filing false tax returns. For porate giants who seem to be descend- that, he served 13 months of a 21-month ing from the heavens to assist Bing in sentence. rescuing the city from the brink of insolvency. New firms and retail stores are So don’t count the votes yet. The slowly but surely relocating to down- mayor, through the power of incumtown or Midtown. Young gentrifiers, bency, has time to redeem himself. And apparently believing that Detroit has a once the hyperbole surrounding the brighter future, are quietly making their race is replaced by reality, Dave Bing could be the dark horse that overcame presence known. the odds.

Terrorism: The not so new normal on the windows of homes is already here in parts of Los Angeles, Cleveland, Detroit, Chicago, New Orleans, Philadelphia and and the list goes on.

By Tom Joyner This isn’t new to us anymore. Oklahoma City, New York, Boston and maybe West Texas, and Mobile, Alabama are all places where terrorists have struck right here on our own soil. And let’s not forget the poison-laced letter sent to the White House, and even though no one has officially confirmed it, the grounding of American Airlines flights for a day. Tom Joyner That’s how terrorism is….the acts are horrible he celebration and the worry of what they might have been and the fear of what’s coming next of the capture of the is just as bad.

“T

But one thing that comes to mind is how acts like the one in Boston really proves there are two Americas. There’s the part that includes me and a lot of you, the part that lives so far away from violence and police activity that there is shock and amazement at the very idea that a city could be held captive.  Then there’s the other part in almost every predominantly Black city in America where living like this has become the new normal.

bomber and the great job done by law enforcement closed that chapter, until the next time. Meanwhile, drive-by shootings, armed robberies, and police corruption all keep happening in community after community.”

Not to downplay the marathon bombing or its victims in any way. But that one day of terror should make people think about the way so many people of color live every day. The kind of America that a lot of people fear is on the way — helicopters hovering overhead, curfews, metal detectors and armed security in schools, bars

Now that the Americans who were shocked at the possibility of being shot in their neighborhoods have gotten a taste of how many people of color live, will anything change?

Probably not.

The celebration of the capture of the bomber and the great job done by law enforcement closed that chapter, until the next time. Meanwhile, drive-by shootings, armed robberies, and police corruption all keep happening in community after community, and the other America is just relieved it’s all happening on the other side of town. Exactly one week after the marathon bombers struck in Boston, just blocks away from the president’s Chicago residence, a 15-year-old boy was shot and killed in a backyard. The mother of Cornelius German said she was waiting to pick him up on Monday night on a nearby street corner but he never arrived. Then she saw a lot of police cars race by.

“I saw a police officer. He said a little kid got shot. Somehow, I knew it was my baby. I went back there. I saw my baby on the ground in the grass. I saw his gym shoes and his jacket.” Unimaginable for most, normal for too many.

praise connect

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

May 1-7, 2013

Page B-5

Hamtramck street renamed in honor of African American pastor years of the lawsuit, as the settlement appeared to be coming to fruition, I met almost weekly with surviving plaintiffs and their families, spending hours working out the details of moving hundreds of families back to town,” he said.

CHRONICLE STAFF REPORT

Dr. Rev. Joseph R. Jordan, past President of the Council of Baptist Pastors of Detroit and Vicinity, is being honored for his leadership and community service with the honorary renaming of Caniff Street to Rev. Joseph Jordan Street, from the Grand Trunk Railroad tracks in Hamtramck to Joseph Campau. The street sign was recently unveiled at Rev. Jordan’s church, Corinthian Baptist Church in Hamtramck. This will be the first street in that

city named in honor of an African American. Rev. Jordan has served the area’s multicultural communities for nearly 40 years by being involved in matters both inside and outside of the church

Rev. Jordan has served countless Detroit and Hamtramck residents by regularly opening the doors and pantries of the church, including its biannual “Clothing and Household Goods Giveaway” which is open to the public. All items are free and every attendee is served a free lunch. His extensive community activism also includes involvement in the medical community where he serves as a member of Henry Ford Health System’s Board of Directors.

Dr. Rev. Joseph R. Jordan walls. One of his most notable community engagements is his involvement in the resolution of Hamtramck’s longstanding housing discrimination

lawsuit that stemmed from the urban renewal projects that began in the ’60s.

“During the final ten

During the unveiling ceremony, Rev. Jordan was presented proclamations from local and state dignitaries.

Church of Our Father 75th anniversary The Church of Our Father Missionary Baptist Church will be having their 75th church anniversary celebration May 1-3 at the Church of Our Father Missionary Baptist Church, located at 5333 E. Seven Mile Rd. The theme for this year’s anniversary is “The Church Celebrating and Moving Toward the High Calling of Christ Jesus,” (Philippians 3:13). 14. May 1-3, The Church of Our Father will present an anniversary revival featuring God’s Rev. Dr. Addis Moore, senior pastor of the Mt. Zion Baptist Church, located in Kalamazoo. For more information, please call (313) 891-7626.

Obituary

x pq Deacon Walter McCullum, Sr. May 29, 1926 - April 20, 2013

Services were held for Deacon Walter McCullum, Sr. at Twelfth Street Missionary Bapist Church with Rev. Floyd A. Davis officiating. On May 29, 1926, the local newspaper reported the birth of three boys born to a Negro couple, Charlie and Lucille McCollum in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Walter McCullum and his two brothers, William and Wilson had entered the world. But when the three contracted pneumonia before reaching their first birthday, Wilson did not survive. Lucille McCollum raised the twins and other siblings with their stepfather, Peter Stringfellow. Walter attended Ebenezer Baptist Church in Hattiesburg regularly with his siblings, and he accepted Christ and was baptized while he was young. Walter McCullum was educated in the Hattiesburg public school system. To help support the family while in high school and beyond, he worked as bus boy/dishwasher for local clubs, restaurants and hotels where, during this time, Black patrons were not allowed. He also worked with his stepfather in his firewood business and spent most Saturdays preparing and repairing the family truck for the next work week. He played on the basketball team with his twin brother before graduating from Eureka High School. Upon graduating in 1945, Walter and his brother William left Hattiesburg in search of a better life in Detroit. When he reached Detroit he quickly learned that racism, though not as open, was also prevalent in this northern city. By God’s grace and his persistence, he secured employment in one of the automobile production plants and later left there to work for the City of Detroit. On Aug. 17, 1979, after 31 years of service, he retired from the City of Detroit as an equipment operator/truck driver. After arriving in Detroit, Walter actively sought to unite with a Christian fellowship. In 1950 he and Edna Earl Bragg were united in marriage, and later they joined Greater Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church where they served and began their family. Edna Earl made her life transition on May 29, 1962, leaving Walter with four children to raise. On July 31, 1965, he restored his family and united in marriage to John Anna Wallace. Walter served at Greater Shiloh in various ways through the years. He was a choir member, Men’s Day chair, Sunday school teacher and trustee. On Feb. 12, 1980, he was ordained a deacon and was later appointed chairman of the Deacon Board serving in that leadership role for several years. He received various awards and recognitions from Greater Shiloh including the 2006-2007 Father of the Year Award. Laymen McCullum was a member of the Metropolitan District Laymen for nearly 40 years and a great supporter of the laymen’s movement. On June 3, 2006, he was recognized for his “Exemplary Service and Dedication” by the Metropolitan District Laymen. In the early 2000’s he moved to Family of Faith Baptist Church to assist the pastor there. In 2007, he joined Twelfth Street Missionary Baptist Church where he served under the pastorate of Rev. Dr. Floyd A. Davis until his life transition on Saturday, April 20, 2013. Walter McCullum, Sr. was preceded in death by both his wives Edna Earl McCullum and John Anna McCullum; his siblings, Charlie McCullum, Helen Murray (Woodrow), Dorothy Wells (Isaac), Bernice Ewing, William McCullum (Connie), and Wilson; his parents, brothers and sisters-in-law Alvin Bragg, Mentoria Bragg, Dorothy Johnson, Kathleen Gray (Charles), Jacqueline Pitchford, Annette Foster (Ronald), Jimmie Doughty and Mary Doughty-Simmons.

WE’RE INVESTING IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. Citizens Bank, now PART OF &IRST-ERIT "ANK IS OFFERING LOW RATE LOANS TO PURCHASE RElNANCE or improve homes in select areas of Wayne County. If you qualify, you’ll GET A LOW INTEREST LOAN TO HELP PURCHASE A HOME OR UP TO TO lX up a house you already own. We even help with funds up to $7,500 you can use for closing costs or a down payment. We believe in supporting our communities. Let us help you make home improvements or buy a home in your neighborhood. Talk to a Banker to see if you qualify, and to learn about terms and conditions.

To learn more visit MYHOME.CITIZENSBANKING.COM or call (313) 494-3275.

Brought to you by:

He leaves to cherish his memory his children, Minister Andria Mitchell (Eugene), Rosalind McCullum, Lucinda Washington (Rev. Minthone), Walter McCullum, Jr. (Delonda); 13 grandchildren, Aaron Ford II, Nicole Hosey (Jabari), Martez Washington, Erika Mitchell, Mariah Washington, Andrew Washington, Renee Washington, Charity Dillard, Melissa Washington, Rachel Mitchell, Mishal Washington, Walter Joshua McCullum and Joy McCullum; five-plus great-grandchildren, a brother-in-law, Enoch Bragg, a sister-in-law, Rosa Bragg, a special friend, DeVerne Simmons, and a host of other family, Christian family and friends.

pq x

He is with God now where he will suffer no more, and he wants us to remember that “only what we do for Christ will last.” Member FDIC

Equal Housing Lender. All loans subject to credit approval.

community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

May 1-6, 2013

Page B-6

Franklin Wright Settlements Helping the child, preserving the family, strengthening the community Franklin Wright Settlements (FWS), celebrating 132 years of service to the community in the city of Detroit, was established in 1881 and is the first settlement program established in the state of Michigan. FWS prides itself on being a beacon of hope on Detroitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s east side, that has proven measurable outcomes and outstanding reviews by accredited firms. FWS is rich with programs based on the needs of the com-

munity. They include Early Start, a program that serves and supports infants and toddlers; After School Enrichment, designed to reinforce and enhance the youth of Franklin Wright Settlements academic fitness, psychosocial development and educational achievement; Counseling and Prevention Services; College Tour, which takes place every summer with a select group of high school students who explore and tour college and university

campuses throughout the nation; Senior Outreach Services, Counseling and Prevention Services, Emergency Food Assistance, the FWS/DTE family warmth center and Michigan Benefits Initiative; In Home Services and the Teen Center which is a twice weekly program designed to increase high school graduation rates. An agency of vision, FWS is looking to expand services regionally, grow the organization to meet the needs of the commu-

nity holistically, advocate for the underserved, train, educate and counsel individuals and move them from crisis to sustainability; ensure that all people â&#x20AC;&#x201D; especially children â&#x20AC;&#x201D; have equal access to opportunities, and be a coalition builder among other agencies. For additional information regarding Franklin Wright Settlements resources or services or to donate go to www. franklinwright.org or call 313579-1000.

Business Powered by Real Times Media

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May 1-7, 2013

michiganchronicle.com

Ken Dallafior BlueCross BlueShield of Michigan

Need talent? Don’t forget to leverage your wellness program By Ken Dallafior Your employees understand you’re concerned about their health and well-being. But what about potential employees you would like to join your team? No matter what the business or the state of the economy, top-notch talent is always hard to come by. That’s why your company needs to leverage every advantage to attract the best and the brightest. If you offer a robust wellness program, make sure it’s part of your company pitch story to employee recruits. According to research by the Employee Benefits Research Institute, a company’s benefit offerings are very important to 69% of job seekers. Not surprisingly, health benefits rank No. 1 on their list, which gives companies an opportunity to promote their wellness programs to gain a competitive edge. In member surveys conducted last year by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), nearly 70% of responA company’s dents said that, within benefit the next three to offerings are five years, very important preventive health and to 69% of job wellness programs seekers. will become increasingly important in their organization’s employee recruitment efforts. Other research conducted for the National Small Business Association found that 65% of companies with 50 and 100 employees considered a health and wellness program a differentiator for employee recruitment. Does your company’s wellness program offer any special incentives or perks, such as rewards for healthy behaviors or discounts to gyms or health foods stores? Be sure to mention these to prospective employees. Jennifer Benz, a benefits communications consultant, also recommends sharing with potential hires some of your wellness program information and employee communications. This can be especially powerful when your company has a branded wellness website outside of the firewall.

‘Buying Power of

Black ’ America Study probes spending shifts caused by tight economy According to the data found in a new report, “The Buying Power of Black America,” now may be the most opportune time ever for businesses to develop a strategy for increasing their share of the Black American market. With the nation Ken Smikle slowly recovering from recession, Black consumers represent the margin of profitability in most consumer product categories. “What the recession did to Black America’s buying habits is to give them a reason to re-evaluate how they spent the billions of dollars they earned collectively,” said Ken Smikle, president of Target Market News and editor of the report. “Before tight economic times, companies felt they could afford to take their loyalty — especially to top brands — for granted. That changed during the downturn. Price was a bigger factor driving purchasing decisions. Now brands have to earn the loyalty of Black

(Figures shown in billion of dollars) Housing and Related Charges

$206.2

Food

70.7

Health Care

25.5

Cars and Trucks - New & Used

22.6

Apparel Products and Services

21.1

Insurance

20.6

Contributions

19.7

Telephone Services

18.2

consumers all over again. Black consumers are asking brands, ‘What have you done for me lately?’”

Households Furnishings & Equipment

15.2

Media

9.7

For the past 17 years, Target Market News has published the only report that breaks down in dollars the impact of the Black Consumer Market. Now approaching a trillion dollars in spending, the earned income of Black America is already the 16th largest market in the world, and is on the verge of surpassing the gross national income of Mexico.

during 2011 on clothing, entertainment, food, beverages, toys, consumer technology, cosmetics, autos, travel and dozens of other categories. Another factor causing a shift in the loyalty of Black consumers is social media and increased access to business information. The new edition of “The Buying Power of Black America” includes a section detailing the dollars spent by major companies on advertising in Black media. It also compares the ad spending of companies by catego-

This 105-page report breaks down how much of Black consumers’ $836 billion in income was spent

Source: The Buying Power of Black America 2012

ries. “African-Americans can now rely on their own research about brands,” said Smikle. “This is one of the reasons why we added a section that tracks how much leading advertisers spent in Black-oriented media. There is a correlation between building and sustaining Black consumers’ patronage and the dollars spent to reach them through advertising. That fact has not changed in this

See SPENDING page C-2

McDonald’s owner operator balances her personal and business life

An on-site or nearby fitness center also has considerable appeal. In a recent Harris Interactive survey of 3,900 fullCompanies time workers, 20% said an with 50 – 100 onsite fitness center would employees make their workplace considered more satisfya health and ing,

“Happiness is not a matter of intensity but of balance, order, rhythm and harmony,” words that are a true reflection of the everyday life of McDonald’s owner-operator Deborah Virgiles. Though the world is now full of women entrepreneurs striving to achieve business success and mothers working hard to provide their kids with the necessities of life, there are many who seek to find the happy medium between the two, a task that Virgiles prides herself in having mastered over the past 17 years. “I have never had a bad experience being a mother and owner-operator because I made time to balance my personal and business life.”

wellness But even if your wellprogram a ness program doesn’t have differentiator any bells or for employee whistles, the fact that you recruitment. consider it important enough to mention says a lot about how much you value your employees. That alone can tip the balance in your favor for prospective employees who are considering several jobs.

Ken Dallafior is executive vice president, Group Business and Corporate Marketing, at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM). He leads BCBSM’s group sales force, oversees corporate marketing and product development, and develops and implements key corporate strategies. He also provides leadership to critical sales operations such as agent relations and commissions, sales incentives and complex issue resolution for group customers and sales agents. In addition to working in the insurance industry for nearly two decades, Dallafior played professional football from 1982 to 1992. He is founder and board member of the Detroit Lions Courage House

Top 10 Expenditures in Black Households - 2011

Deborah Virgiles

In 1996 Virgiles successfully opened her first McDonald’s, while raising her daughter, Dominique, who was 9 years old at the time. “I started working with McDonald’s in 1972 under the leadership of Dr. William Pickard, right out of high school, so by that time I had plenty of experience being a working mother even before becoming a business owner.” A woman determined to succeed in both of these multifaceted aspects of her life, Virgiles

In 1996 Virgiles successfully opened her first McDonald’s, while raising her daughter, Dominique, who was 9 years old at the time. made it a point to make sure that both businesswoman and mom were equally part of her everyday lifestyle. “It is not work when it is part of your everyday living and you’re doing something you love to do.” Now what you can call a veteran in both the world of business and motherhood, Virgiles has the pleasure of sharing her lessons of triumph and perseverance with her daughter, Dominique, who currently oversees operations for both of her stores. And more importantly than being able to work side by side with her daughter, Virgiles says that “watching my daughter blossom and grow into the wonderful, responsible young lady she is today by far has been my greatest achievement in being a mom.” When she’s not in her restaurants greeting customers

and pitching in to help crew or in mom mode, Virgiles loves spending time shopping, decorating her home, gardening, traveling and last but certainly not least, volunteering and giving back to the community. Virgiles is the president of Ronald McDonald House of Detroit and actively works with organizations like the Women’s Informal Network, NAACP, National Association of Professional Women and the Deaconess Club of Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church, among many others. It’s evident that Virgiles has a strong presence within her local community and when asked what attracted her to McDonald’s the answer was simple: “The McDonald’s brand and its community involvement is unlike any other. McDonald’s has always branched out to the African American community by nourishing it with valuable programs and opportunities for children and families, 365 days a year.” Committed, dedicated, giving and honest are all adjectives that could be used to describe the businesswoman and mom that Virgiles has crafted herself to be, but the description she sees more fitting is “a mom and businesswoman with a good work ethic, a commitment to professional excellence and a dedication to the community, her crew and her family.”

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May 1-7, 2013

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Who’s Who In Black Detroit

Tony Tomczak (left), Stephanie James, Vince Floyd, John Eley Jr. and Shawn Patterson.

DTE Energy named Best of the Best for diversity by Black EOE Journal DTE Energy was recognized by Black EOE Journal as a 2013 Best of the Best company for its work in promoting and valuing diversity in the workplace. The publication polled hundreds of Fortune 1000 companies in a variety of industries including the energy sector, finance, higher education and healthcare. It evaluated companies’ outreach and accessibility to the African-American, Hispanic, Latino, female and veteran populations. It also examined how well companies pursued diverse applicants and certified disadvantaged business owners; as well as policies that support advancement, equal access and inclusion of all individuals. The magazine, which advocates for equal employment opportunities, provides information for African Americans seeking jobs and business opportunities within U.S. corporations. “DTE Energy is pleased to be considered a Best of the Best company by Black EOE Journal. We are committed to diversity in the workplace and among

our suppliers. At DTE, we always try to do the right thing. Embracing diversity offers great perspective and tremendous creativity. Diversity is a great business practice,” said Tony Tomczak, DTE Energy director of supply chain management. DTE is a diversified energy company serving 2.1 million electric customers and 1.2 million natural gas customers across Michigan. The energy company has made a concerted effort to conduct business with Michigan-based suppliers as a participant in the Pure Michigan Business Connect Initiative. It has taken its commitment one step further by also seeking out suppliers led by minorities and women. “The organizations we choose as our ‘Best of the Best’ know that diversity translates to a competitive advantage and business opportunity,” said Mona Lisa Faris, president and publisher of Black EOE Journal.

Spending diverse media environment — it has become an imperative for brands that want success.” The report compares spending by Black households on 500-plus products and services between 2010 and 2011. The top five categories with the largest dollar expenditures were Housing and Related Charges - $206.2 billion; Food - $70.7 billion; Health Care $25.5 billion; Cars and Trucks (new and used) - $22.6 billion; and Apparel Products - $21.1 billion. The top five categories showing an increase in spending between 2010 and 2011 were Appliances, $2.7billion (29%); Sports and Recreational Equipment, $850 million (28%); Personal and Professional Services, $5 billion (27%); Computers, $5 billion (21%); and NonAlcoholic Beverages, $4.3 billion (16%). “The Buying Power of Black America” is an analysis of data compiled annually by the U.S. Department of Commerce. It is based on interviews and diaries collected from more than 3,000

From page C-1 Black households, and is the most comprehensive survey conducted on Black consumers. This same data is also used as the basis for the U.S. government’s Consumer Price Index. The 17th annual edition of “The Buying Power of Black America” includes these sections covering: • Expenditure & Trends: An break down of how spending by Black consumers has changed in more than 500 individual categories between 2010 and 2011. • Income Data: A detailed look at how much African-Americans earn, explanations of the varied definitions and types of income, city-by-city data on Black income, a comparison with world economies and a look at Black buying power over the past 30 years. • Black Buying Power in the Top 35 Markets: An expanded breakdown of the billions of dollars Black consumers spent in 26 major categories of products and services in the nation’s top

markets. • Leading Black Media Advertisers: A ranking of national advertisers and industries according to their ad expenditures in Black media • The 100-Plus Index: A special section providing data on dozens of items for which AfricanAmerican consumers outspent their White counterparts. • Demographic Data on the Black Population: The latest information on the AfricanAmerican population including rankings of the largest Black metropolitan areas, the percentage of Black population in U.S. cities and a listing of the total dollars earned by Black consumers for each of the past three decades. “The Buying Power of Black America” is an analysis of data compiled annually by the U.S. Department of Commerce. For more information about The Buying Power of Black America,” call 312-408-1881.

Louis Green

Green assists minority suppliers with business opportunities By Donald James As president and chief executive officer of the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council (MMSDC), Louis Green is the guiding light for the creation of opportunities for certified minority-owned businesses to partner with the nation’s top corporate entities, specifically, the automotive industry. As one of the nation’s 37 regional councils, MMSDC, under Green’s guidance, provides a viable business atmosphere that presents minority suppliers with procurement opportunities, as well as with needed resources to develop. Serving as MMSDC’s top executive since 2006, Green’s steadfast leadership has allowed minorityowned businesses to obtain $128 billion in corporate contracts in such sectors as manufacturing, professional services, construction, and information technology. While Green is responsible for the aforementioned “stratospheric corporate contracts,” he refused to take full credit. “I’m blessed to have a talented team of professionals and an excellent board that share my commitment and passion for making things happen,” says Green. I don’t think it’s anything that I’ve done, per se; it’s really “we” when it comes to the success of this organization.” While Green’s modesty is commendable, the fact remains that his executive acumen equates to more than 1,374 minority businesses participating fully, meaningfully, and strategically in numerous purchasing/procurement opportunities. Under his guidance, the MMSDC has received Council of the Year honors in 2007, 2010 and 2012. Prior to MMSDC, Green served as national director for supplier diversity at General Electric/NBC Television in New York. Under his directorship, major initiatives were accomplished that positively impacted NBC Broadcast, NBC Universal Cable Networks,

Universal Motion Pictures and Universal Studio Theme Parks, as well as 13 NBC owned and operated television stations. In addition, his professional portfolio includes positions as a supplier diversity and social responsibility leader (University of Michigan), chief deputy director (State of Michigan Department of Civil Rights), and deputy director and governor’s policy advisor (Michigan’s Office of the Governor). There is no doubt that Green has enjoyed a stellar career, a far cry from his beginnings on the tough streets of South Central Los Angeles. Growing up, he was exposed to an environment permeated with gang violence. Yet, thanks to a mother’s love, Green stayed out of harm’s way and trouble. Many of Green’s young South Central peers were not as fortunate as they were either imprisoned or killed. Green realized that a good education would serve as his passport to the world of opportunity. After graduating from high school, Green attended Oberlin College on a physics scholarship, but ultimately obtained a bachelor’s degree in communication and government. He went on to earn a master’s degree in public policy from the University of Michigan. While Green currently maintains a hectic work schedule, he donates time and talent to help iner-city youth excel in life. He is actively involved with Real Life 101, a national scholarship and mentoring organization for at-risk African American males in high school. He is also a member of 100 Black Men of New York. “People ask me why am I still involved with 100 Black Men of New York even though I now live in Michigan?” says the married father of three. “I made a commitment to the organization and to the young men that they could always count on me to be there for them. It’s important for me to honor my commitment.”

People On The Move

Marc Bland

Jason D. Lee

Joy D. Calloway

Mikael Thorton

Denise Brooks-Williams

Alexis Dishman

Polk, the premier provider of automotive information and marketing solutions, has announced that it has promoted Marc Bland to vice president of Diversity Marketing Practice. He will continue his focus on developing strategies for multicultural markets. Bland, a member of the Polk team since 1999, has held several roles within the organization, including senior systems developer, solutions consultant, manager of the analytic solutions production team and head of diversity and inclusion. During his career at Polk, Bland has been instrumental in helping the company reach multicultural agencies, as well as managing Polk’s relationships with diversity affiliations.

Jason D. Lee has been awarded Oakland County’s Elite 40 Under 40 Award. He is committed to the advancement of communities through educational achievement and creative problem solving. During his tenure as DAPCEP executive director, Lee has applied engineering process and efficiencies to the organization’s infrastructure and educational programming. As a result, the program has increased its fiscal foundation, expanded its portfolio of educational opportunities for young people, and improved its organizational structure. His volunteer work with 100 Black Men of Greater Detroit and New Detroit -The Coalition, serves the community and opens the doors of opportunity for deserving youth.

In her new role as CEO and president of New Center Community Services, Joy D. Calloway reports directly to the Board of Directors and leads the New Center CS Executive Management Team. She is responsible for achieving the organization’s mission, financial objectives and for enhancing New Center CS’s impact in the mental health arena and Detroit Wayne County as a whole. She is excited to be the newest member of the New Center CS family and will use her strong history of fostering and managing relationships to build a firm network of alliances both around and within New Center CS.

R&L Color Graphic Printing recently announced that Mikael Thorton has joined the staff as a web developer. With the addition of Mikael, R&L is now able to design and manage websites for their expanding customer base. Prior, he worked for O’Neil and Associates as the head of Tech Graphics Integrator One. For more than 19 years, R&L has served the greater Detroit business community by provided the design and printing of all types of collateral materials, including brochures, business cards, stationary, restaurant menus, posters and signage in a wide range of sizes.

Gov. Rick Snyder announced the appointment of Denise Brooks-Williams to the Certificate of Need Commission. The 11-member commission regulates and balances the cost and quality of and access to Michigan’s health care system. It also develops, revises and determines approval or disapproval for Certificate of Need standards. Brooks-Williams is president and chief executive officer of the Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital. She previously served as president and chief executive officer of Bronson Battle Creek and the Battle Creek Health System. She will represent hospitals, serve as a Democrat and replace Edward Goldman.

Alexis Dishman, Alternate Group manager and vice president of Comerica Bank will serve a three year term as a board director of Northeast Guidance Center (NEGC). In 2002, she was promoted to business banking lender. She developed skills through managing multimillion dollar portfolios and developing client relationships. Dishman mentors leaders, helps to develop complex loan structures and is a voting member of loan committees. As chairperson of Comerica’s African-American Business Development Initiative, she leads a team that fosters and develops relationships with key prospects, customers and centers of influence in the business community.

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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Carl J. Bentley, Yvette Anderson, Dan Gilbert, Sue Mosey, George W. Jackson, La Shawn Thomas and Robert Belloni.

Michigan Chronicle’s Pancakes & Politics series features discussion with Detroit leaders

By Roz Edward Three heavy hitters took the stage at the Detroit Athletic Club on Thursday, April 25, to address an audience of state and local officials and business men and women at the Michigan Chronicle’s Pancakes & Politics. The event, which has in the past included mayors, governors and Fortune 500 CEOs, focuses on the commitment of state and local leaders to the revitalization of Detroit.

very critical issues that have not been addressed. We have to do something about the defenders of a dysfunctional status quo,” he said. Gilbert added that excitement

Developer and Quicken Loans chairman Dan Gilbert, Detroit Economic Growth Corporation president and CEO George Jackson, and Midtown Detroit Inc., president Sue Mosey George N’namdi and James B. Jenkins, Jr. discussed a variety of topics ranging from Detroit’s was building around several key Emergency Manager Kevin Orr to developments, particularly emMidtown and downtown develop- ployment and business opporment. tunities in Detroit’s inner city. When Pancakes & Politics “We have walkable communities moderator Carol Cain asked downtown now, and that has Jackson how the city’s financial positively affected 9500 people, manager might impact DEGC and what is even more important projects, Jackson responded to note is that 4500 of those jobs that he was hopeful about the were created in the city, they are EM’s progress. “We have to make not jobs moved from somewhere change. We can’t keep doing the else. Innovation and creativity is same things and expect different at an all-time high,” he said. During the open question and results, but our expectation is that he will help us address some answer segment, one Pancakes

& Politics patron said that Midtown Detroit was becoming a city in and of itself. Mosey, who has been a critical player in the area’s development, said there were several key indicators at work: “People are coming in and seeing businesses at work as well as significant activity. We have to leverage that to benefit neighborhoods as the downtown core gets better.” Gilbert, Jackson and Mosey all affirmed rumors of Detroit’s demise were greatly exaggerated: “I never thought Detroit was dead. The city needed to see hope and there is nothing like hope to get people going. You can’t get discouraged. I always tell these entrepreneurs if you care about yourself and you’re a capitalist, this is the place to be,” said Jackson. “I think we are on the cusp of something great.” The Michigan Chronicle’s Pancakes & Politics series will feature the region’s “Big Four,” Detroit Mayor Dave Bing, Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano, Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel and Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson. The event will be held on May 16 at the Townsend Hotel in Birmingham, Michigan.

May 1-7, 2013 Page C-3

Bankole Thompson, Charlie Langton and Debbie Dingell.

Matt Elliott, Tiffany Douglas and Kevin Breil.

Pancakes & Politics panelists George W. Jackson, Dan Gilbert and Sue Mosey.

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May 1-7, 2013

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Boy Scouts and Fifth Third Bank partnership announced Michigan Crossroads Council and Fifth Third Bank will partner throughout 2013 Fifth Third Bank and the Boy Scouts of America Michigan Crossroads Council have entered into a statewide partnership. In keeping with its long history of community involvement, Fifth Third Bank will work on a number of initiatives alongside the Michigan Crossroads Council throughout 2013.

New national poll says small businesses favor minimum wage increase According to a new national poll, small business owners overwhelmingly favor increasing the federal minimum wage, currently $7.25 an hour. The minimum wage was last increased in 2009. Two out of three small business owners (67 per cent) support increasing the federal minimum wage and adjusting it yearly to keep up with the cost of living. The strong support for a minimum wage raise is particularly striking since the small business owners are all employers and predominately Republican. The poll was conducted by Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research on behalf of Small Business Majority, an advocacy group founded and run by small business owners to focus on solving the biggest problems facing small business today. The poll shows 65 per cent of small business owners agree that “increasing the minimum

wage will help the economy because the people with the lowest incomes are the most likely to spend any pay increases buying necessities they could not afford before, which will boost sales at businesses. This will increase the customer demand that businesses need to retain or hire more employees.” Other key poll findings include: • 85 per cent of small business owners pay all of their employees more than the minimum wage. • 65 per cent of small business owners agree “It is not right that people working full time earn just $15,080 a year at the minimum wage, which is significantly lower than it was in the 1960s, adjusting for inflation. Increasing the minimum wage would allow people to afford basic necessities and

decrease the pressure on taxpayer-financed government assistance to make up for the low wages paid by some employers.” • 46 per cent of small business owners surveyed identified themselves as Republican, 35 per cent identified as Democrat and 11 per cent identified as independent. Holly Sklar, Director of Business for a Fair Minimum Wage, said, “Today’s minimum wage undermines our economy. As this poll makes crystal clear, the oft-heard claims that most small business owners oppose a minimum wage increase are wrong. Most small business owners, like the general public, want to raise the minimum wage. The minimum wage would be more than $10 if it had kept up with the rising cost of living since the 1960s instead of falling behind.”

The announcement was made at the Fifth Third Bank Eastern Michigan Affiliate Headquarters’ Town Center in Southfield. Local Boy Scouts, officially launching the partnership, formally presented representatives from Fifth Third Bank with an American flag. This relationship will work to both strengthen Boy Scout recruitment and retention as well as connect the business community with the scouting community to create long-term partnerships and programs. In order to thrive and stay competitive, Michigan needs a solid base of young people who are enthusiastic about shaping their communities and making a difference across the state. Fifth Third Bank and Michigan Crossroads Council share this vision and support those who seek out opportunities for positive change. Fifth Third Bank is proud to support organizations in the community like the Boy Scouts that foster personal

development, leadership and skillbuilding for youth in Michigan. “As a former Eagle Scout, my roots run deep with the Boy Scouts,” said John Worthington, chief financial officer of Fifth Third Bank, Eastern Michigan Affiliate. “The lessons and values I learned through scouting have served me well throughout my life. I’m proud to partner with the Michigan Crossroads Council and am encouraged by the leadership and dedication displayed by scouts across Michigan.” Fifth Third Bank will develop financial literacy programs that will allow the scouts to earn a merit badge upon completion and tailor financial products and services for local scouts and their families. Richard Fisher, field service executive of the Great Lakes Field Service Council of the Michigan Crossroads Council, is just as enthused about the partnership. “The Boy Scouts of America is proud to partner with Fifth Third Bank and have the ability to have more Scouts join Scouting across the state of Michigan. We sincerely appreciate Fifth Third Bank’s commitment to the youth of Michigan. This partnership will guarantee more kids experience such a great program like Scouting.” Fifth Third Bank and the Michigan Crossroads Council both seek to make a lasting difference in the communities that they serve and look forward to working together throughout the year.

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THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

May 1-7, 2013

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A VISION FOR DETROIT

African Americans must be a part of Detroit new development growth One-of-a-kind hospitality and entertainment venue offers Detroit jobs, inspiration The most successful and aspiring entreprebusiness ventures are neurs visiting a constructhe right blend of careful tion site seeing people market research, smart that look like them work timing, solid resources on such a big development and clear vision. Entrepre- project in a way no other neur Francois Wulu-De- new facility has before. monique, We are crepresident ating this and CEO special emof Urban ployment Café Coralso as an poration documenin Detroit, tary that hopes to will inspire bring these so many elements others. together Through to create a Urban Café 21st cenDetroit, tury hotel, Detroit is conference poised to and enterbecome an tainment even greatc e n t e r er force as — the first an enterof its kind Francois Wulu-Demonique t a i n m e n t — designed city. So for and built exclusively those who may say we through the talents of De- have enough hotels rooms troit’s African American that are empty now, why population. another? I say le’ts build “Detroit is unique. It for Detroit’s future and is home to the brightest anticipate more for city. minds, strongest skills and most dedicated efforts,” said Demonique, a 25-year Detroit resident and award-winning urban development professional who was born in Monrovia, Liberia. “A development 10 stories High and over 100 thousand square feet from groundbreaking to completion will be a “yes we can” because never in city of Detroit history with such a large African American population have we seen a development project being built by a majority of African American construction workers.

Scalable to the land site on which it will be built, the Urban Café Detroit will incorporate a 100 suites hotel, a 1,500-seat multipurpose theater, a 2,000-guest banquet facility, and a themed upscale restaurant and lounge. Perfectly positioned to accommodate large and small conventions, out of town tourists and local diners and entertainment seekers, the Urban Café Detroit will serve as a destination venue that will boost tourism in Detroit, stimulating revenue, prosperity and excitement for the city.

“This project will serve as an inspiration, especially for Detroit’s youths

Designed to educate and amaze visitors, the Urban Café Detroit themed restaurant will

delight diners with the finest in world-class cuisine. With an all-glass design, the peak of the nine-story structure will feature a sky bar that will show off Detroit’s distinctive skyline, offering panoramic views of Detroit’s beautiful downtown, the Detroit River and Windsor, Canada. “Each hotel suite will represent a distinct world nation, showcasing that country’s culture, art and history. Guests can explore all aspects of a country they may know nothing about,” says Demonique, who expects the venue to welcome a half million guests each year. “Each suite will be like a tiny documentary about that nation, showing guests what life is like in that country. In this way, we are building valuable partnerships and enhancing an understanding of dozens of nations across the world. Five ambassadors from five countries who have committed their

country commitment to invest a million dollar each per suite in our development and we are looking to form this partnership 100 countries.” Using undisclosed third party negotiations working in our behalf, several sites are being considered for the development, including the former Tiger Stadium area at Michigan and Trumbull, the historic Eastern Market district, Detroit’s riverfront and Detroit Economic Growth Corporation to launch the project. “We anticipate the project to cost between $75 and $100 million and take two years to complete. We’re currently in the land acquisition stage and are actively looking for investors,” says Demonique, adding that the ideal investor would be an athlete, entertainer or venture capitalist interested in profiting from a high-profile project. “The potential for success here

is enormous, well worth an investor’s interest and commitment.” The Urban Café Detroit development, by design, will attract jobs, attention and financial prosperity back into the business district, reversing the downturn caused by an abrupt switch from development to acquisition in African American communities across the country, says Demonique. “This was when we put our talent as a people aside,” he says. “It’s been 50 or 60 years since then and we need to refocus our attention and tremendous talents, rather than waiting for someone else to build and develop our neighborhoods.” Once established in Detroit, Demonique plans to spread the Urban Café concept to other cities across the country. “By proving the success of this concept in Detroit, we’ll then develop similar projects in Atlan-

ta, Washington D.C., Chicago and Cleveland, other cities that have a high African American population,” he says. A project that began as vision and was boosted by a rally cry from President Obama is on track to become a successful, inspiring centerpiece of Detroit life, “When Barack Obama became president, he advocated for people like me to take my vision to the next level,” he says. “I felt personally inspired about all the growth that is possible, and I put my passion for development into the concept that has become Urban Café Detroit.” Now is the perfect time to move Urban Café Detroit forward.” Contact Urban Café Detroit at 313.340.0330, urbancafedetroit.com or e-mail ucd@urbancafedetroit.com.

THE WORST DAY AT WORK BEATS THE BEST DAY IN FORECLOSURE. SEEKING A SOLUTION FOR THOSE SEEKING JOBS

With job loss responsible for up to half of all mortgage delinquencies, getting people back on their feet became our focus. But the economy and the job market have changed. People desperately looking for work need help. Which is where Fifth Third Bank and NextJob, a nationwide reemployment solutions company, came in. Last year we initiated a pilot program that provides mortgage customers up to 39 weeks of job training – including live coaching, job search training and software – fully paid for by Fifth Third Bank. Participating Fifth Third

customers at risk of defaulting on their mortgages had experienced, on average, 22 months of unemployment. After six months of reemployment assistance, nearly 40% of participants had secured meaningful employment. BUSINESS AS UNUSUAL

Our commitment to reemployment continues to grow with the signing of a multiyear contract with NextJob, which allows us to move the program out of the pilot phase and incorporate it into the way we do business. Curious behavior for a bank? Maybe. But we’re proud to be the first financial institution to offer such assistance and hope we won’t be the last.

Fifth Third Bank. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender .

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michiganchronicle.com

May 1-7, 2013

Don Lemon

Reflections By Steve Holsey

Mama said Although I have had it for months, I am just now reading Cissy Houston’s muchtalked-about book, “Remembering Whitney” with its touching subtitle, “My Story of Love, Loss, and the Night the Music Stopped.” Her story is fascinating and she made a point of being truthful about her own life and that of her beloved daughter, the late Whitney Houston (nicknamed “Nippy”). The integrity of the book was verified to me personally by a longtime friend of the Houstons.

CNN’s star anchor

I fail to see what Bobbi Kristina, Cissy Houston and Whitney and Bobby Whitney Houston. Brown’s daughter, is so upset about. And as for suggesting that she is going to “do something about it,” what could she possibly do? Better her grandmother tell the real story than someone else with bad intentions. “Nippy became a superstar, and the pressures that brought eventually overwhelmed her,” writes Houston. “She endured so much and was criticized mercilessly by people who didn’t understand her, people who didn’t know who she was. She always used to say to me, ‘I just want to sing,’ yet that would never be enough.” She continued, “A lot of wonderful people end up falling prey to the lure of drugs, and Nippy did too. I never thought she would and I never understood it, but who really knows why people do anything?” And there is this haunting quote: “The day Nippy was born, as I was holding her in my arms in my hospital bed, something told me she wouldn’t be with me long.” As a bonus, the book offers a huge amount of insight regarding the recording industry. ONE OF the side benefits of the smash Broadway show “Motown: The Musical” is that it has helped further melt the ice between Diana Ross and Mary Wilson. They even posed for pictures together, and that hasn’t happened Diana Ross and Mary in decades! Wilson. Maybe they realize that at their age — and they both look fantastic — that it’s time to put aside their “issues” that date all the way back to the final days of Diana Ross & the Supremes. They had been best friends prior to that, plus they made history together as the most famous female vocal group of all time. It would be great if Diana Ross did a concert and Mary Wilson was her opening act, and at the end they could have fun with some of the Supremes’ many hits. KELLY ROWLAND, formerly of Destiny’s Child, got off a good one at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ceremony on April 18 in Los Angeles. She had been selected to induct the late Donna Summer. With regard to Kelly Rowland Summer’s first hit, the ultra sexy, downright orgasmic “Love to Love You Baby,” Rowland quipped, “I’m pretty sure me and a lot of people here were made to that record!” Jennifer Hudson sang two of Summer’s other hits, “Last Dance” and “Bad Girls.” But why did the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame not vote Donna Summer in when she was alive? My guess is that it was a subtle bias against disco. Tracy Morgan, who first came to the general public’s attention on “Saturday Night Live” and more recently co-starred on “30 Rock,” will be hosting the Billboard Music Awards, to air on May 19. Good for him, but there is just something about Morgan that makes me uncomfortable. Often he comes across as kind of buffoonish.

Tracy Morgan

AT THE TIME of this writing, Detroit’s own jazz and R&B songstress Kimmie Horne was winding up a concert tour of Japan. The people of Japan love Black music passionately and are very supportive of the artists. That’s the main reason Harvey Thompson, another jazz vocalist from Detroit, actually moved there. I was watching the “Dancing With The Stars” episode that was built around the

See Reflections Page D-3

By Steve Holsey “The word ‘no’ really bothers me. The surest way to get me to do something is to tell me that I can’t do it. Tell me ‘no’ and you’ve got a fight on your hands. A rebellion. A challenge.” Those words were written by Don Lemon who, as host of the prime time weekend edition of CNN, is one of television’s most familiar, most respected and most popular news anchors. The words are also in keeping with Lemon’s outspoken nature and determination to keep it real in every situation. “As a journalist, I’m a huge believer in transparency,” he continued. “I don’t like communication with a hidden agenda, and I don’t like people who conceal things to make themselves look better. “Transparency in the process of obtaining information is crucial. Without it, ‘the news’ might as well be called ‘the spin’ or ‘the opinion.’ If a fact is concealed or missing, you get a very different picture of a person or an event than you might have with full disclosure. “If you don’t present the viewers with as complete a picture as you can draw, you skew the results. You fail to give the people what they need in order to be able to draw their own conclusions.” LEMON HAS also not been shy about leveling criticism at CNN whenever he has felt it was justified. Some would say that is biting the hand the feeds you, but Lemon views it as clear communication. Born Donald Carlton Lemon in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Lemon joined CNN in September of 2006. He had majored in broadcast journalism at

Brooklyn College, in Brooklyn, New York. He attended Louisiana State University as well. He secured a news assistant position at WNYW (TV 5 in New York) while he was still in college. Later, he was a weekend anchor at WCAU (TV 10 in Philadelphia), investigative reporter and anchor for KTVI (TV 2 in St. Louis) and anchor at WBRC (TV 6 in Birmingham, Alabama). Lemon has much to say about a limiting force that he has labeled “the black box.” “Again and again in my life, I’ve run up against those who have limited ideas about what and who Black Americans are, and sometimes expressions of those limitations have come from Black people themselves,” he said.

See Don Lemon Page D-3

lifestyle

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

May 1-8, 2013

Page D-2

Editor’s Style Files Note Trend alert: Top colors for spring fashion By Yvelette Stines

S RJ Barnhill, Lifestyle Editor Chirping birds, blooming flowers and misty mornings are signs that spring has arrived. But for all of the fashionistas in Metro Detroit, spring means chiffon garments and strappy sandals! This week my section is devoted to the dawning of the new season and all the trends it brings along.

pring has finally arrived and we couldn’t be happier. With warm weather comes lightweight fabrics and stylish ensembles bursting with color. And speaking of color, if you didn’t know, emerald is the shade that is all the rage this year. But don’t just take our word for it, this trend alert comes straight from Pantone, the color authority for fashion and home design. They’ve held this title for over two decades and they recently released the top ten colors for spring 2013. Check out the hues and our guide to get the look right.

• • • • • • • • • •

Grayed Jade (think mint green) Dusk Blue (think sky blue) Tender Shoots (think lime) Lemon Zest think (mustard yellow) African Violet (think lilac) Linen (think off white or bone) Monaco Blue (think midnight blue) Poppy Red (think bright red) Nectarine (think orange blush) Emerald Green (think jade)

Lemon Zest compliments every complexion.

Poppy Red, a classic trend that creates style and substance.

Grayed Jade is a hue that celebrates the cool side of spring.

Tender Shoot adds an eye-catching popo of color to an ensemble. Pair with light grey or white for an ultra chic look.

Linen is a classic and casual trend this summer.

Nectarine is great for adding a splash of color to any outfit.

Dusk Blue freshens up a standard summer suit.

African Violet brings a calm and cool element to this office look. Emerald sets the tone and turns heads with casual and stylish look.

Monaco Blue brings a cool confidence to any look.

entertainment

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

MOTOR CITY ENTERTAINMENT

Calendar

CHARLES BRADLEY & the Extraordinaires, Magic Bag, May 10. For more information, call 248.544.3030.

dso.org or call 313.576.5111.

EARTH, WIND & FIRE, the Colosseum at Caesars Windsor, May 12. For ticket information, visit www.caesarswindsor.com or call 800.991.8888.

WAYNE BRADY, the Colosseum at Caesars Windsor, May 25. For ticket information, visit www.caesarswindsor.com or call 800.991.8888.

HERBIE HANCOCK, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, Oct. 10. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino. com. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

CHENE PARK: Kendrick Lamar, Schoolboy, Ab-Soul, Jay Rock, June 18; Patti Austin, Bill Cosby Althea Rene, June 12; Tamia, GLADYS KNIGHT, Fox Theatre, Eric Robeson, Bilal, June 19; June 7. Tickets sold at TicketSummer Jamz, June 22; Bmaster locations and the Fox 52â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Go-Gos, June 25; David Theatre box office. To charge by Sanborn, Bob James, June 26; phone, call 1.800.745.3000. Anthony Hamilton, Fantasia, June 28; Spyro Gyra, Swing WYNTON MARSALIS, Sound Out Sister, July 3; Jeffrey OsBoard at Motor City Casino, borne, Peabo Bryson, Freddie Thursday, June 19. Tickets sold Jackson, Howard Hewett, July at Ticketmaster locations and 6; Ultimate White Party, July MotorCityCasino.com. 7; Jonathan Butler, Sheila E., Alan Trotman, July 10; Kenneth Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;JAYS, Whispers, Stylistics, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Babyfaceâ&#x20AC;? Edmonds, Rachelle Herbie Hancock Enchantment, Fox Theatre, SatFerrell, July 13; SOS Band, Rose Royce, July 17; Brian Culbertson, Kimmie urday, May 4. Tickets sold at all TicketmasHorne, July 24; Tyrese, Ginuwine, Tank, ter locations and the Fox Theatre box office. July 28; Rahsaan Patterson, Kindred & To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000. the Family Soul, July 31; Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Angelo, Erykah Badu, Aug. 4; Will Downing, Maurissa Rose, â&#x20AC;&#x153;OLDIES AND MOREâ&#x20AC;? BYOB parties for Aug. 7; Ramsey Lewis, Dee Dee Bridge- older adults, St. George Cathedral Cultural water, Aug. 14; Sergio Mendes, Aug. 21; Center, 18405 W. Nine Mile Road, May Michael McDonald, Toto, Aug. 25. Tickets 10, May 24, June 14, June 28, July 26, sold at Ticketmaster locations. To charge Aug. 9, Aug. 23, Sept. 13, Sept. 27. Call by phone, call 1.800.745.3000. Visit www. 313.530.2933 for more information. cheneparkdetroit.com. DIANA ROSS, Sound Board at Motor City CLASSIC COMEDY Tour, Masonic Temple, Casino, Aug. 25. Tickets sold at TicketmasMay 11, featuring Mike Bonner, Teddy Car- ter locations and MotorCityCasino.com. To penter, Jvonne Pearson, Tyler Craig and charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.. Martini Harris, hosted by Karen Addison. Tickets sold at the Masonic box office and Ticketmaster locations. BILL COSBY, Orchestra Hall, June 29, two shows, 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. For tickets, visit

WAYANS BROTHERS, Sound Board at Motor City Casino, Sept. 26. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster locations and MotorCityCasino.com. To charge by phone, call 1.800.745.3000.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The impact of my professorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comments had a searing effect on me,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I had a moment of clarity. I realized that if I stayed in Louisiana, my professorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s words would probably come true. I realized that if I were going to make it, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d have to create a new opportunity for myself somewhere else. â&#x20AC;&#x153;PERHAPS MOST importantly, I realized how much I wanted to make it, for myself and for all of the other Black students who, day in and day out, were told in ways both subtle and overt, that they werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t good enough.â&#x20AC;? James Brown was often tagged â&#x20AC;&#x153;the hardest working man in show business,â&#x20AC;? and today, BeyoncĂŠ has been described as â&#x20AC;&#x153;the hardest working woman in show business.â&#x20AC;? If Don Lemon is not â&#x20AC;&#x153;the hardest working man in TV journalism,â&#x20AC;? he is certainly one of the top contenders. His work

Don Lemon ethic is strong, he loves a good challenge and no wall is too high for him to scale. In several instances he has been put in harmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way, but he used any fear and anxiety as fuel. Lemon is an expert on how TV stations and networks target their audiences. Little, if anything, is left to chance. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Time and money are allocated toward certain information and certain audiences,â&#x20AC;? he said. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about who advertisers want to reach. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The next time you watch the evening news, pay close attention to the commercials,â&#x20AC;? he advises. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The commercials tell you exactly who the program is aimed at. The stories in the broadcast, other than the breaking news of the day, will be aimed at exactly the same people as the commercials.â&#x20AC;? IN 2011, Don Lemon sparked a substantial amount of controversy by revealing to the public that he is gay, something he never hid from friends, family and co-workers,

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have absolutely no shame in being gay. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a fact, much like the fact that my skin is brown, that I was born in Louisiana or that my favorite color is blue. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s part of who I am.â&#x20AC;?

The hits are woven into the fabric of America (and most of the world), including â&#x20AC;&#x153;Signed Sealed Delivered Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m Yours,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;My Cherie Amour,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Just Called to Say I Love You,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sir Duke,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Uptight (Everythingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Alright),â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Part-Time Lover,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Wishâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Superstition.â&#x20AC;? Tyler Perryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s movies are not everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cup of tea, but he sure has no trouble getting major stars to appear in his blockbusters, among

them Cicely Tyson, Angela Bassett, Blair Underwood, Janet Jackson, Rick Fox and Taraji P. Henson. The latest to join this group is the legendary Diahann Carroll who will be featured in â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tyler Perry Presents Peeples.â&#x20AC;? Her last movie was â&#x20AC;&#x153;Eveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bayouâ&#x20AC;? 1997. BETCHA DIDNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T KNOW...that the Whispers made an appearance on â&#x20AC;&#x153;Soul Trainâ&#x20AC;? every season between 1971 and 1983. MEMORIES: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Looking For A New Loveâ&#x20AC;? (Jody Watley), â&#x20AC;&#x153;Keep On Movinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? (Soul II Soul), â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fameâ&#x20AC;? (David Bowie), â&#x20AC;&#x153;How Long? (Betcha Got a Chick on the Side)â&#x20AC;? (the Pointer Sisters), â&#x20AC;&#x153;Shining Starâ&#x20AC;? (Earth,

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And it has nothing to do with his work. Back ethic:

that

work

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I know itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s weird, but I often work on my vacations,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I work so much because I love it, and I love opportunities to try new things. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m always looking for a new experience because with every experience comes a new perspective and a new story. This is what I thrive on.â&#x20AC;? The Emmy Award-winning Lemon offers some good advice, no matter what oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s profession might be. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Working hard pays off,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People notice whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s putting in the extra mile, whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s being innovative and whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thinking beyond any kind of box.â&#x20AC;? Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s note: Quotes used in this story are from Don Lemonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s autobiography, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Transparentâ&#x20AC;? (Farrah Gray Publishing, 2011).

Reflections music of special guest Stevie Wonder. (I seldom miss the show anyway.) It dawned on me again how many classic hits he has had, so many that if he never made another record, that would be okay. (But, of course, he will...eventually.)

SAM LOGAN MICHIGAN CHRONICLE GOLF TOURNAMENT

10.5 in.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always had a sense of the limits of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the boxâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and I have resisted going within its limits.â&#x20AC;? Lemon recalls one of his college professors telling him bluntly â&#x20AC;&#x201D;and meaning every word of it â&#x20AC;&#x201D; that he would never make it in the field of journalism.

From page D-1 He made this move in response to Tyler Clementi, a college student who took his own life, unable to deal with what he had to endure because of his sexual orientation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I believe that now is the time for all of us to acknowledge, once and for all, that God made some of us straight and some of us gay,â&#x20AC;? said Lemon with typical candor.

He recalled, â&#x20AC;&#x153;As a high school student, I was on the receiving end of assumptions from Blacks and Whites about what it meant to be Black. Now, 30 years later, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m still having those experiences.

29TH ANNUAL

PHONE____________________________AVG. SCORE FOR 18 HOLES_ _________

Don Lemon â&#x20AC;&#x153;I call these beliefs â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the black box.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;?

May 1-7, 2013 Page D-3

From page D-1 Wind & Fire), â&#x20AC;&#x153;Talk to Me, Talk to Meâ&#x20AC;? (Little Willie John), â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterdayâ&#x20AC;? (Boyz II Men), â&#x20AC;&#x153;Found a Cureâ&#x20AC;? (Ashford & Simpson), â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rhythm of the Nightâ&#x20AC;? (DeBarge). BLESSINGS to Joe Billingslea, Keena Clinkscales, Sherrie L. Farrell, Eric Hunter, Galen T. Pauling, Daphne Andrews Williams, Fannie Tyler, Caroline Crawford and Hugh Burrell. WORDS OF THE WEEK, from Stevie Wonder: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ability may get you to the top, but it takes character to keep you there.â&#x20AC;?

Let the music play!

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

JAZZ at LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA with

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Homegoing Celebration

Homegoing celebration services for Johnallison L. Westbrook will be held on Thursday, May 2, 11 a.m., at Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Nathan Johnson officiating. Mr. Westbrook was born in 1929 in Kansas City, Missouri, and was preceded in death by his only sibling, Maryrose Shelton. He was educated from grade school through junior college in Kansas City, Kansas. At the age of five he received professional musical training in piano and organ at the Kansas City Conservatory of Music. He received voice, choir and directorship training from his very gifted mother, father and sister. As a Marine, Johnallison was stationed at Montfort Point, Jacksonville, North Carolina, providing music for the USO radio show. Upon being honorably discharged, he traveled to Detroit, studied business administration and received certification in purchase agent training from the University of Michigan. Johnallison Westbrook worked with the City of Detroit as a purchasing clerk, State of Michigan as an accounting clerk, managed the Detroit Consumers Federal Credit Union, was accounting supervisor at the Parkway Federal Credit Union, vice president and accountant of the International Auto Leasing Corporation, field auditor of Michigan Credit Union League, timekeeper and payroll analyst of Wayne County CETA Program and purchasing agent for AFL-CIO Home Weatherization Program. He demanded no less than his best in every position he held.

Highland Park Housing Commission Waiting List Closed NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Highland Park Housing Commission, in accordance with regulations outlined by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), has closed its Public Housing waiting list for senior housing (age 57 and over). The waiting lists for both senior and scattered site housing are closed until further notice. This closure will have no effect on applicants currently on the waiting list.

Highland Park Housing Commission 13725 John R, Highland Park, MI 48203

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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.

RFP WR-485032713 Janitorial Supplies Posted Date: 4/25/13 Due Date: 5/24/13 Time: 5:00 PM (EST) RFP WR-475032513 First Aid & Medical Supplies Bid Posted Date: 4/22/13 Due Date: 5/20/13 Time: 5:00 PM (EST) All documents are located on the Wayne RESA web site: http://www.resa.net/services/purchasing/rfp/

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Starr Detroit Academy Board of Directors will be holding its 2013-2014 annual budget hearing on the following date and time: May 8, 2013 at 6:00 p.m. The location will be: 19360 Harper Ave., Harper Woods, MI 48225. The 2013-2014 budget is available for public inspection at 19360 Harper Ave., Harper Woods, MI 48225. ANNOUNCEMENTS

Detroit Transportation Corporation NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Detroit Transportation Corporation (DTC) is a recipient of Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Section 5304, 5307 and 5337 funding. The DTC has allocated 5304 total Planning funds for a System Integration Study in FY 2013, $150,000 and a Transit Oriented Design Impact Study in FY 2013, $100,000. The DTC has allocated 5307 estimated total Capital funds for DTC Infrastructure and Equipment Upgrade in FY 2014, $495,000, FY 2015, $504,900 and FY 2016, $514,985. Also allocated are 5337 total Capital funds for Infrastructure and Equipment Upgrades in FY 2014, $1,012,351, FY 2015, $1,032,598 and FY 2016, $1,030,699, and (MI) Act 51 Operating Assistance, $3,500,000. Notice of these federal funds has been previously published in the Transportation Improvement Plan prepared by SEMCOG. DTC ensures that the level and quality of transportation service is provided without regard to race, color, or national origin in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. For more information regarding our Title VI obligations or to file a complaint, please contact the DTC at the address listed below. Written comments or request for details of these projects will be accepted from the public on the program of projects commencing Monday, April 29, 2013, through Friday, May 31, 2013. Comments should be addressed to Ms. Cindy Koch, Grant Manager, Detroit Transportation Corporation, 1420 Washington Blvd., 3rd Floor, Detroit, MI 48226 or 313-224-2160 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Barring any changes made in response to the written comments, this document will become final.

Johnallison was baptized at an early age at Second Baptist Church of Kansas City, Missouri. When he arrived in Detroit he joined Mount Olive Baptist Church and eventually Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church where he remained active until his transition. He served in Sunday church school, as youth choir director, pianist, organist, church financial secretary and many other church activities. He was vice president of the Churchill Block Blub, president of t he MESC Local Union, president of the State of Michigan NAACP Youth Council (they developed and sponsored the first and only contest for “Miss NAACP” for the state of Michigan), was a Llfetime member of the NAACP, mayor’s appointee to the Virginia Park Development Council, plus Detroit Urban League, Detroit Chamber of Commerce president, DART (Deprived Area Recreation Team) UAW-City of Detroit, Detroit Council of Churches. On April 24, 2013, Johnallison L. Westbrook made his transition. He is survived by his wife, E. Jacqueline Westbrook; two sons, Christopher Allison of Aurora, Illinois, and Johnallison II; one daughter, Valerie Jeanne; two grandsons, one granddaughter, one great-granddaughter, Shayla; and many other relatives.

pq x

Burial will be at Grandlawn Cemetery in Detroit.

Arrangements are being handled by James H. Cole Home For Funerals.

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Minimum Qualifications: High school graduation or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Three years clerical accounting/bookkeeping experience. Type minimum 30 wpm. Ability to effectively interact with the public, students, faculty, and staff. This is a part-time position, working 30 hours per week – must be willing to work a flexible schedule, some evening and weekend hours may be required. Salary is $27,707.00 annually. See online posting for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by May 6, 2013. Must apply on line to: https://jobs.oakland.edu Seeking

DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION TRAINING at OAKLAND UNIVERSITY School of Medicine

Director will lead the design, development, implementation and assessment of the education training program for undergraduate medical students in the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine. Implemented program will educate medical students in effective instructional methods in both formal and informal settings. Minimum Qualifications: Master’s Degree in a health care discipline, education, or a related field. Minimum of five years’ experience in planning, developing, implementing, evaluating programs for training health care students to teach. Salary is up to the low $80’s annually. See on line positing for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by May 8, 2013. Must apply on line for this position to: https://jobs.oakland.edu Seeking

ACHIEVE EDUCATION COORDINATOR at OAKLAND UNIVERSITY

Student Business Services Department

This position will manage, implement and assess the ACHIEVE program. Will be responsible for executing the ACHIEVE educational events, preparing correspondence, tracking events and program participants. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree. Minimum two years’ experience in career & professional development in a corporate setting. Demonstrated ability to set goals, facilitate, manage and assess programs. Salary is up to the mid $40s annually. Refer to online posting for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by May 7, 2013. Must apply on line for this position to: https://jobs.oakland.edu Seeking

ASSISTANT DEAN FOR ARTS & SCIENCES at OAKLAND UNIVERSITY This position will monitor, recommend and direct fiscal activities and personnel actions of the College of Arts and Sciences and administrative budgetary activities of the Office of the Dean. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree and two years’ experience in fund accounting including monitoring, budgeting and forecasting. Experience in supervising the processing of payroll, payables, receivables and purchasing within unit environment. Proficiency in use of spreadsheets and database software to support the budget function. Salary is up to $70,000, commensurate with experience. Refer to online posting for additional qualifications and requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by May 9, 2013. Must apply on line for this position to: https://jobs.oakland.edu

GORDON TRUCKING

DETROIT WATER AND SEWERAGE DEPARTMENT CITY OF DETROIT DAVE BING, MAYOR REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR DWSD CONTRACT NO. CS-1564 HEARING OFFICER FOR CUSTOMER BILLING DISPUTES The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) requests written proposals from individuals or firms to provide professional services under DWSD Contract No. CS-1564 for one (1) Hearing Officer to arbitrate billing disputes between DWSD and its retail customers. The Hearing Officer will provide services for a period of one year with two 1-year renewals. Proposals will only be accepted by DWSD from individuals having demonstrated a minimum of five (5) years experience as a certified arbitrator or attorney, and a minimum of five (5) years experience in contract, administrative and/or real estate law. In addition , the Hearing Officer must be familiar with the City of Detroit ordinances and the State of Michigan laws that are directly related to DWSD, and must have a general understanding of municipal law. Beginning Monday, May 6, 2013, a Request for Proposals (RFP) may be obtained from the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department, 151 Floor Water Board Building, 735 Randolph, Detroit, Michigan 48226 on business days between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A non-refundable $50.00 charge in the form of a certified or cashier ‘s check made payable to the Detroit Board of Water Commissioners is required to secure the RFP. Please call Yolanda Pippen at (313) 964-9458 or Miriam Dixon at (313) 964-9465 for further information on the distribution of RFP’s. Proposals must be received no later than 12:00 noon, Eastern Standard Time, Wednesday , June 5, 2013. The sealed proposals should be submitted to the attention of Ms. Miriam L. Dixon, DWSD’s Contracts and Grants Manager, at the following address: Detroit Water and Sewerage Department, 735 RandolphStreet, 151 Floor, Detroit Michigan 48226.

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Department of Management and Marketing (VISITING SPECIAL INSTRUCTOR IN MANAGEMENT) School of Business Administration - Full time This Visiting Special Instructor’s position may be renewed for subsequent academic years. Special instructors’ primary job responsibilities include teaching and service: primarily teaching seven classes of the Contemporary World Business course (MGT110); assume course coordinator duties for this general education course as well as the faculty director responsibilities for the school of business scholars program. Qualifications:Candidate must possess an advanced degree in a business-related discipline; Evidence of experience teaching undergraduate business course(s). We desire: Evidence of experience teaching undergraduate business course(s);Evidence of creative and innovative teaching methods (e.g. online/blended); At least five years of business related work experience; Evidence of successful interactions with the business community (e.g. consulting work, leadership position(s) held); Understanding of and experience with assessment. Deadline: May 18, 2013 To apply: Visit https://academicjobs.oakland.edu/ postings/731. A letter of interest; a complete vita; three reference letters and teaching evaluations for at least one undergraduate management course are required. Visit our website at: www.sba.oakland.edu for additional information on the School of Business Administration

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May 1-7, 2013

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

STAR CHART ARIES

Week’s Best

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LEO

SAGITTARIUS

You want a comrade who doesn’t place inordinate expectations or demands on you, and who is creative, intelligent, a good conversationalist, and highly spiritual. Perhaps you should be out looking this week with eyes wide open.

Everybody’s in a good mood this week, and you’ll want to join friends or family in sharing good food and feelings. You may be asked to grow, or move. Think seriously about it, because it could enhance your spiritual growth.

Why not take each perfect moment as it comes? You are struggling to find a solution that time can and will provide. Perform your tasks cheerfully this week and let the future take care of itself.

Soul Affirmation: Cooperation with others is the key to success for me this week.

Soul Affirmation: In order for money to come I must think about money as my friend.

Lucky Numbers: 13, 24, 41

Lucky Numbers: 45, 47, 51

TAURUS

VIRGO

Work calls and you are not completely happy with current divisions of labor. Do your part as a member of the team and you’ll be glad that you did. Others will notice that you are a committed team player.

At work, some matters have been on hold but now you will get the green light. Continue to work as diligently as you have been in the past to ensure success. Have faith that your plans are on target.

Soul Affirmation: I master life by mastering myself.

Soul Affirmation: Anticipation of a beautiful immediate future lights up my week.

Lucky Numbers: 23, 45, 48

Soul Affirmation: Worry will only create more worry. I stop all worry.

Business looks good this week as you discover a new way of increasing exposure to your product. Let hope and optimism lead you into new beginnings and fresh starts. All vibes are good. Go! Soul Affirmation: I enjoy flirting with new ideas.

CANCER

Your anxiety about an important issue can now be seen as needless. You don’t have to worry. Have faith that things are working out perfectly and they will.

You can be discreet and cut down on some of the envious comments you are attracting, or you can continue to flaunt it since you’ve got it. Your choice this week! Watch for a pleasant change in a romantic partner’s attitude. Soul Affirmation: The winner is me. I smile for the cameras. Lucky Numbers: 23, 39, 43

Lucky Numbers: 22. 34. 55

Lucky Numbers: 1, 8, 14

Center yourself at every opportunity during this busy week and keep your quest for emotional and spiritual balance in the forefront. Make an effort to take your time. That way you’ll recognize opportunity from impulse-control problems immediately. Soul Affirmation: My spirit gives me limitless possibilities. Lucky Numbers: 10, 20, 31

The Sphinx organization gives opportunities and assistance to aspiring Black and Latino musicians and has changed the face of orchestras in the USA. Its mission is for classical music to em-

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Key programs range from an annual series at Carnegie Hall featuring top young musicians of color, to the national Sphinx Competition for young Black and Latino string players, an international convening on diversity in the arts (SphinxCon), two summer programs, along with a year-round grassroots educational program, the Sphinx Overture.

To date, Sphinx has reached more than 100,000 students in 200

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Only awarded 130 times in the Royal Philharmonic’s 200-year history, honorary membership in the Society is a significant honor bestowed upon musicians of distinction who have contributed outstanding services to music. Dworkin was one of only five honorees selected this year and the only honoree from the United States.

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Sphinx Founder honored by the Royal Philharmonic Sphinx founder and president, Aaron P. Dworkin, was recently honored by the prestigious Royal Philharmonic Society as an honorary member, joining the ranks of iconic figures of classical music, Brahms, Mendelssohn, Wagner, Tchaikovsky, Verdi, Berlioz and others.

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PISCES

SCORPIO

Soul Affirmation: This week I find joy in the gifts that life has already given me.

At Your Service

AT YOUR SERVICE

AQUARIUS

Lucky Numbers: 3, 20, 44

Soul Affirmation: I release internal pressure by enjoying the beauties of the world around me.

929 475 104 274

Lucky Numbers: 2, 17, 22

LIBRA

No mixing work with fun or business with pleasure this week. Save your affection for the home front and stay focused on the work in front of you on the job. Things are working out perfectly.

462 362 576 163

Soul Affirmation: I am uplifted by the presence of friends.

Quit rushing around. You frequently help others, so why are you troubling over asking for the help you need this week? Ask and when you receive, say thank you. You are blessed with many supportive friends.

You seem preoccupied this week and it’s because your mind is filled with a vision of love for the entire planet. Use your gifts to assist others in seeing the world as you do, in glorious color. Check the details on paperwork that you have to do, dreamer.

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CAPRICORN

Soul Affirmation: I smile and trust in the powers beyond myself.

Lucky Numbers: 16, 19, 27

P i ck s

Lucky Numbers: 32, 50, 51

Lucky Numbers: 14, 53, 54

GEMINI

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schools across America and more than two million individuals annually through live and national broadcasts. It has provided $300,000 in quality instruments to young minority musicians, with $2,000,000 in prizes and scholarships administered to Sphinx Competition Semi-Finalists and 260 orchestral performances reaching more than 250,000 people. Sphinx has a broad reach. The number of Black members of USA orchestras has doubled in major orchestras. In all instances, the member was a Sphinx alumni, a

Sphinx Symphony Orchestra member, or the orchestra is Sphinx partner. In addition to the Royal Philharmonic honor, Dworkin, an accomplished acoustic and electric violinist, was named a 2005 MacArthur fellow, a member of the Obama National Arts Policy Committee and was President Obama’s first appointment to the National Council on the Arts. For more information about the Sphinx Organization visit sphinxmusic. org.

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GRACE CENTERS OF HOPE PRESENTS ‘WOMEN HELPING WOMEN’ LUNCHEON AND FASHION SHOW, MAY 4

By RJ Barnhill On Saturday, May 4, Grace Centers of Hope presents the 15th annual Women Helping Women Luncheon and Fashion Show at the Royal Park Hotel. The event includes world-renowned style and beauty expert Mary Alice Stephenson, who returns to rev up the glamour factor with her favorite red carpet looks from the world’s most glamorous designers. “In just the past three years, Grace Centers of Hope has increased the number of women and children it has served by 20 percent,” said Pastor Kent W. Clark, CEO of Grace Centers of Hope. “As one of the fastest growing segments of our homeless population, women and children continue to remain top-of-mind at Grace Centers of Hope and that is why our Women Helping Women luncheon and fashion show is so important.” Recognized as “Best Managed Nonprofit” in 2012 by Crain’s Detroit Business, Grace Centers of Hope is one of the largest homeless shelters in Southeast Michigan. It provides a comprehensive range of programs and services to help individuals and

families overcome issues of homelessness, addiction, neglect, poverty and spiritual emptiness. To achieve these outcomes, it incorporates personal accountability, life skills education and work-related programs. Proceeds from Women Helping Women support the women’s and children’s programs at Grace Centers of Hope. Birmingham, Michigan native Mary Alice Stephenson is a world-renowned style and beauty expert, philanthropist, mother, and the founder of GLAM4GOOD. Launched in 2012, GLAM4GOOD is a social movement and brand that gives life-changing makeovers, dramatic giveaways and inspiring, transformative fashion adventures to everyday heroes. Stephenson currently serves as the national fashion ambassador for the Make-A-Wish Foundation where she has granted countless fashion-related wishes for young girls struggling with life-threatening illnesses over the last 10 years. She is an ambassador for Freearts NYC, and in 2011 created STYLE4HEROES with the The Bob Woodruff Foundation to pamper our wounded warriors and their caretakers. She has served as fashion director and editor for the top fashion magazines in the industry including Vogue, Allure, Marie Claire and Harper’s Bazaar. She also has worked with Hollywood’s biggest stars such as Beyoncé, Sarah Jessica Parker, Gwyneth Paltrow and Halle Berry, among others. Stephenson is a consultant to the world’s most influential brands and has been featured as a fashion commentator for shows such as “Doctor Oz,” “Rachel Ray,” “Good Morning America,” “The Today Show,” “Wendy Williams” and “Oprah.” It is her work using fashion to empower and inspire that Stephenson is most proud of, however. Women Helping Women is hosted by WDIV TV 4 news personality, Ruth Spencer. Julie Kozlowski of Troy is chairperson and Amanda Luther of Rochester is co-chair. Honorary committee members include Renee Godin-Ferguson of Farmington Hills, The Hon. Lisa Gorcyca of Troy, Denise Ilitch of Bingham Farms, Danialle Karmanos of Orchard Lake, The Hon. Julie Nicholson of Rochester, Mona Richard of Dearborn, Kathy Shelton of Rochester Hills, and Karen Williams of Bloomfield Hills. Executive sponsor for the event is Car Proof and Karen and Rick Williams. Platinum sponsors are Volkswagen Group of America and Toyota. Gold sponsors are Bull Run Press, Inc., and English Gardens. Silver sponsors are Flagstar Bank, Delta Airlines, Luxe Event Linen, Northwestern Mutual – Wilshire Financial Group, and Strategic Employee Benefit Services. Bronze Sponsors are Doeren Mayhew, Passageways Travel and Celebrity Cruises, and Stout, Risius, Ross. Valet sponsor is Rochester Hills Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Inc. Birmingham businesses Luigi Bruni Salon and Carson’s will provide hair and make-up for the models and children’s clothing, respectively. Women Helping Women tickets are $100 per person. Make checks payable to Grace Centers of Hope, or visit www.gracecentersofhope.org to purchase tickets online. About Grace Centers of Hope: Giving hope to the helpless since 1942, Grace Centers of Hope is considered one of the leading faith-based organizations in southeastern Michigan, daily confronting issues of homelessness, addiction, poverty, abuse and spiritual emptiness. On any given night, Grace Centers of Hope provides transitional and emergency shelter to 150-200 men, women and children, in addition to serving more than 100,000 meals each year. Grace’s $5.7 million yearly budget is maintained solely through corporate and private donors, exclusive of any government assistance. To learn more about Grace Centers of Hope or to make a donation, please visit www.gracecentersofhope.org.

Taste!

May 1-7, 2013

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Out & About Events This Week: 5/1 - 5/7 By Cieara Wilson SPANK! THE FIFTY SHADES PARODY May 1-5, City. Spank! is the laugh out loud parody stage performance based on the mega-hot and mega-risqué bestselling book, Fifty Shades of Grey. Mature audiences only. For more information visit ticketmaster.com DETROIT CITY BOOK READING May 1, Harper Woods Library. Detroit City is the Place To Be: The Afterlife of an American Metropolis is a book about the once thriving city’s tragic decline and the plans of urban developers and spectators plans of its epic return. This is a book reading and signing by the author Mark Binelli. For more information call 313-343-2575 or visit harperwoodslibrary.org

THE MOTH May 2, Cliff Bell’s. Storytellers names are pulled from a hat and they each have five minutes to tell a story related to the night’s theme. This Thursday night’s theme is “envy.” For more information call the venue at 313-961-2534 or visit the themoth. com. POETRY, PAGES & SCRIBES May 2, Southfield Public Library. The first Thursday of every month is a chance for speakers, musicians, poets and storytellers to share their work with others in a friendly setting. For more information call the library at 248-796-4200 or visit their website at sfldlib.org. CREATIVE MORNINGS AND COFFEE May 2, Great Lakes Coffee. The first Friday of every month is Creative Mornings with Jen Gray. This is a great chance for creative types to enjoy a lecture and learn more from the speaker and others. Free pastries and coffee will be offered. Great Lakes Coffee is located on Woodward between Alexandrine St and Selden St. For more information visit greatlakescoffee.com. AN EVENING WITH JOE BONAMASSA May 3, Fox Theatre. Award winning blues guitarist is in Detroit one night only at the Fox to perform songs from his latest album, “Driving Towards the Daylight” which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Blues chart. To be a part of this evening of blues guitar greatness visit olympiaentertainement.com or ticketmaster.com. SOUL 70s SUPER JAM May 4, Fox Theatre. Returning to the Motor City is a Super Jam session featuring soul music greats the O’Jays, the Whispers, Enchantment and the Stylistics. All four groups have had a long list of career heights and hit records. Thursday evening at the Fox is the place to be for a blast from the past and soulful sounds. For more information visit olympiaentertainment.com or to charge tickets by phone call 800-745-3000.. ‘CATCH ME IF YOU CAN’ May 7-19, Fisher Theatre. Electrifying and fascinating, “Catch Me If You Can” is the Broadway musical based on the DreamWorks film of the same title. Frank W. Abagnale, Jr. is a boy in his late teens who runs away from home and successfully frauds his identity as a doctor, pilot and lawyer. He comes into a lot of money in the process and enjoys the “high life’ based on this fraud. For more information visit broadwayindetroit.com or call 313-8721000. MITTEN MOVIE FESTIVAL May 7, Main Art Theatre. Join the likes of this Michigan based film festival where each month a list of short films are put together for audiences to view and network with each other. Call 248-2632111 or visit landmarktheatres.com

New baking trend ‘pushes’ pops of color onto the scene By RJ Barnhill Welcome the arrival of warm weather with sunny colors, vibrant flavors and the newest baking trend – cake push pops. These treats add a dash of family-friendly fun for gatherings, graduations and birthday parties. “These cake push pops are easy to create and make any celebration an unforgettable one,” said Mary Beth Harrington of the McCormick Kitchens. “A variety of colors and flavors can be mixed together to form a flavorful, one-of-a-kind treat that’s sure to make a lasting impression.” Using an angel food cake base and white frosting, the color and flavor combinations are endless with these cake push pops. For a fruity sweet treat, think orange cream or blue raspberry, and for a refreshing twist on a favorite summer sip, pink lemonade will please anyone’s palette. For even more variations and baking inspiration, visit www.McCormick.com or www.Facebook.com/ MccormickSpice. Also, visit the “Cakes to Crave” board at www.Pinterest.com/McCormickSpices to find other cakes and flavors to turn into push pops. Angel Food Cake Push Pops with Pink Lemonade Frosting Prep Time: 30 minutes Makes: 8 cake push pops 1 1 1 1

package (10 ounces) round angel food cake cup (2 sticks) butter, softened teaspoon McCormick® Pure Lemon Extract box (16 ounces) confectioners’ sugar, sifted

2 6 8

tablespoons milk drops McCormick® Red Food Color cake push pop molds

Cut angel food cake into 1/2-inch thick layers. Cut out 32 rounds with the same diameter as the push pop molds. For easier cutting, press out cake rounds with a round cookie cutter. Set aside. Beat butter in large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. Add lemon extract, mix well. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, beating until well blended after each addition and scraping sides and bottom of bowl frequently. Add milk and red food color; beat until light and fluffy. Fill piping bag fitted with a small plain tip with frosting. For each push pop, pipe a small amount of frosting into push pop mold. Place 1 cake round into tube, pressing, into the frosting. Top with a small amount of frosting and a second cake round. Repeat layering for a total of four cake layers. Top with frosting. Test Kitchen Tips: • Cake push pop molds are available in the cake decorating aisle of craft and party stores and online specialty stores. • In place of angel food cake, use your favorite baked cake if you prefer. If you don’t have push pop containers, use small, clear cups or Mason jars instead to create mini trifles, perfect for any gathering.

‘DERANGED’ May 7-12, Music Hall. Just in time for Mother’s Day weekend is the thrilling and suspense filled stage play about a woman who seems like the perfect babysitter but turns out the complete opposite. Written by Angela Barrow-Dunlap, “Deranged” is the urban take on the 1992 movie “The Hand That Rocks the Cradle” and promises to be just as thrilling. For more information visit musichall.org or call the box office at 313-887-8501.

Affirmation Your attitude is like a box of crayons that color your world. Constantly color your picture gray, and your picture will always be bleak. Try adding some bright colors to the picture by including humor and your picture begins to lighten up. – Allen Klein