POWERED BY REAL TIMES MEDIA
Volume 81 – Number 6
michiganchronicle.com
October 18-24, 2017
THEY'RE BACK! Deee-troit basketball:
Pistons return downtown
By Ken Coleman
City residents and African Americans are — for the most part —excited about the Detroit Pistons’ return to the downtown area. The team played its first regularly scheduled home game in Detroit since 1978 on Wednesday. At that time, the squad included NBA Hall of Famer Bob Lanier and was cheered on by bombastic super fans like Leon “the Barber” Bradley, a fixture at home contests. N. Charles Anderson, president and CEO of the Urban League of Detroit and Southeastern Michigan, has attended a couple of pre-season games at Little Caesars Arena (LCA). A longtime ticket package holder, Anderson likes the ease of the one-mile stroll to games from his Midtown office as opposed to the 32-mile trek to northern Oakland County. An African American, he has noticed more blacks working at LCA in contrast to the Palace of Auburn Hills. “From looking at the people, they have community folks working in there so it’s convenient for them getting from home to work,” Anderson, who attends about 20 games a season, said. “I’ve noticed a significant number of African Americans, especially women.” Detroit is approximately 80 percent black. In June, Detroit City Council approved a $34.5-million taxpayer obligation deal to support the Pistons’ move to newly constructed LCA just north of downtown. Ignoring Mayor Coleman A. Young’s passionately plea, the franchise, who played their first regular season game in Detroit at Olympia Stadium on Oct. 23, 1957, bolted from Cobo Arena, located on the city’s riverfront, to sprawling Oakland County’s spacious Pontiac Silverdome in 1978. Team officials cited sluggish ticket sales as a leading reason for the move. The team then shifted from Pontiac to neighboringAuburn Hills in 1989 where it remained until this year. The Pistons now share Little Caesars Arena with the Detroit Red Wings. For the first time in 40 years, all four major sports teams play home games within city limits. Additionally, the New Center area will serve as Pistons headquarters. The team is also building a practice facility to be managed by Henry Ford Health System,called the Henry Ford-Detroit Pistons Performance Center. Dr. Mark Rosentraub, professor of sports management and director of the University of Michigan’s Center for Sport and Policy, estimates that the Pistons move to Detroit could create $600 million in economic impact, which includes about $22 million fan spending each year. “We’re excluding any of the payments that the fans make for tickets and/or luxury seating,” Rosentraub pointed out. “We estimate not less than 636,000 additional visits to downtown.” The analysis suggests that 442 permanent jobs, which included relocating Palace Sports & Entertainment employees as well as Detroit Pistons office and team staff, will bring $290 million of salary income to the city. The move to Detroit also includes a commitment from the organization to repair about 60 inner-city basketball courts at a cost of $2.5 million over the next six years. The team has agreed to donate 20,000 tickets each season to Detroit residents, including children. But not everyone is impressed. Detroit City Council President Brenda Jones, one of two no votes on the public financing measure to facilitate the team move, doesn’t believe that Pistons brass offered enough to city residents to justify the taxpayers’ commitment to them. “There is not enough guarantee in writing to what the Pistons will do for Detroiters past the fact of building and relocating the facility in the days to come,” Jones, an African American and currently the longest-serving city legislator, declared at the time. Mary Bailey, another African American Detroit resident and retired public school educator, isn’t a huge fan of the public financing deal either. See PISTONS page A-4
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Detroit seven-day forecast ‘Honorable Judge Damon J. Keith Day’ Designated in the City of Detroit
Mayor Mike Duggan has signed a proclamation declaring October 16th ‘Honorable Judge Damon J. Keith Day.’ The commemoration comes just before the City hosts Equal Justice Under Law, a gala honoring Judge Keith’s 50 years of service on the federal bench, on October 28th, 2017. “Growing up, Judge Damon Keith was my hero. He still is today. Simply put, Judge Keith is America’s greatest living federal judge. From integrating the Detroit Police Department to preventing President Nixon from secretly wiretapping – even in matters deemed to be “national security” – unless the government first obtained a warrant, Judge Keith has authored some of the most consequential orders in U.S. jurisprudence,” said Mayor Duggan. “Judge Keith is a national treasure, and on behalf of this City, we are proud and grateful that he is a Detroiter through and through.” “As a native Detroiter, I am beyond thrilled that the mayor would acknowledge my 50 years on the bench in this way,” said Judge Keith. “It has been an absolute pleasure to spend my career in this great city of ours and I am truly humbled and honored to be bestowed the distinction of this day being declared judge Damon J Keith Day.” A staunch human rights advocate and champion for civil rights, Judge Keith grew up in Detroit. Though his education moved him to West Virginia and Washington,
macomb
Judge Damon J. Keith D.C., he returned to Michigan and has remained for the duration of his distinguished legal career. In 1964, Keith was elected co-chair of the Michigan Civil Rights Commission and played a key role in maintaining peace following the Detroit race riots. He was nominated to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan in 1967 and has served as a member of the Sixth Circuit Court since 1977. Keynoted by the Reverend Jesse Jackson, Jr., the Equal Justice Under Law gala is a fitting tribute to the Judge’s commitment to civil rights and justice. The event will be chaired by Edsel B. Ford, II, a Director at Ford Motor Company; and media personality, journalist, and author Mitch Albom. Remarks will also be delivered by Congressman John Conyers (D-MI). Gala proceeds will benefit the Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights at Wayne Law and the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. Gala dinner tickets are sold out. Other ticket and sponsorship opportunities are still available at DJKGala. com.
The Macomb Community Action Office of Senior Services is offering counseling appointments for Macomb County seniors that need assistance with their Medicare Part D enrollment.
Recreation Authority of Roseville & Eastpointe 18185 Sycamore Street, Roseville
Medicare open enrollment for 2017 begins on Monday, October 16 and extends through Thursday, December 7. Trained counselors will be available to help seniors navigate the different options being offered and help them register for a plan of their choice that best fits their needs.
Max Thompson Family Resource Center 11370 Hupp Avenue, Warren
Macomb County Family Resource Center 196 N. Rose Street, Mount Clemens
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oakland
Ford Arts, Beats & Eats 20th anniversary year raises $275,738 in donations
Medicare Part D open enrollment counseling assistance available through Macomb Community Action
Appointments will be available from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday beginning October 16. Participants should bring their Medicare card and a list of their medications, including dosage and frequency to their appointment. Appointments will be held in four locations:
SUNNY WED. OCT. 18 69°/52°
October 18-24, 2017
New Haven Schools-Administration Building 30375 Clark Street (Door 19), New Haven
“Last year, Macomb Community Action assisted 759 older adults with their Medicare open enrollment and saved them over $385,000.” Shared Kristie King, division director of Senior Services with Macomb Community Action. “These cost savings are very impactful for seniors who often have limited incomes.” Macomb County seniors who are 60 years and older are eligible for this free program. To schedule an appointment, contact Macomb Community Action Office of Senior Services at (586) 469-5228.
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Ford Arts, Beats & Eats presented by Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort today announced that $275,738 was raised from gate admission, beverage proceeds and other festival sponsored community initiatives. The money raised during the 2017 Arts, Beats & Eats — the festival’s milestone 20th anniversary – has pushed the total giving since the festival’s inception to over $5 million, marking another festival milestone. The donations were handed out this afternoon at a special media event at Flagstar Bank corporate headquarters in Troy. Flagstar served as the official bank sponsor for the 2017 festival, supporting additional cultural opportunities through its Flagstar Culture on 4th at Ford Arts, Beats & Eats. “This was a great year for the festival in terms of donations, and the new milestone in giving back shows the dedication organizers have to the community,” said L. Brooks Patterson, Oakland County Executive and festival founder. “We’re happy to have Arts, Beats & Eats in Oakland County to celebrate our quality of life while creating a positive financial boost to local businesses and supporting community groups.” All proceeds for local charities
were generated from attendance and programming for the Labor Day weekend event. Previous years’ donation totals included proceeds from the charity preview event, Arts Du Jour, which festival organizers decided to forgo this year. A stellar musical lineup sparked an exceptional turnout for the festival, including a record-setting crowd of 8,000 that attended multi-platinum reggae-rockers 311’s headlining performance Saturday night. Additionally, more than 500 yogis took part in the new Priority Health Practice for a Purpose event Sunday morning. Continuing its commitment
to quality of life in the community, Ford Arts, Beats & Eats again teamed with Autism Alliance of Michigan for the 6th annual Family Days. Presented by returning sponsor Kroger, its support made it possible to provide a record 2,350 children on the autism spectrum and their family members with a complimentary day of fun and entertainment, which included parking, lunch and unlimited carnival rides. Also, the 8th annual food drive hosted by Flagstar Bank benefitting Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeastern Michigan collected 11,541 lbs. of food, which will provide more than 9,655 meals to those in need.
NOTICE TO DETROIT ELECTORS – PUBLIC ACCURACY TEST The Detroit Department of Elections will conduct a Public Accuracy Test on Thursday, November 2, 2017, at 11:30 a.m. at 2978 W. Grand Blvd. The automatic tabulating equipment to be used for the compilation of ballots at the Municipal General Election on November 7, 2017 will be tested. The Public Accuracy Test is conducted to demonstrate that the computer program used to record and count the votes cast at the election meet the requirement of law.
JANICE M. WINFREY City Clerk
NOTICE TO ELECTORS – MUNICIPAL GENERAL ELECTION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2017 POLLS WILL BE OPEN FROM 7 A.M. TO 8 P.M. TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE CITY OF DETROIT, COUNTY OF WAYNE, STATE OF MICHIGAN: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT ON THE ABOVE DATE, A MUNICIPAL GENERAL ELECTION WILL BE HELD IN EVERY PRECINCT OF THE CITY OF DETROIT, FOR THE PURPOSE OF ELECTING CANDIDATES FOR THE FOLLOWING OFFICES:
MAYOR CITY CLERK CITY COUNCIL MEMBER (AT- LARGE) CITY COUNCIL MEMBER (DISTRICTS 1-7) POLICE COMMISSIONER (DISTRICTS 1-7) STATE REPRESENTATIVE (DISTRICT 1) (2) PROPOSALS
TO: ALL ELIGIBLE DISABLED VOTERS Federal Public Law 98-435 requires that polling places be accessible to disabled voters. If a polling location is not disabled accessible, this law allows the assignment of an alternate polling place. However, several polling places which were previously inaccessible are now accessible to disabled voters. Disabled voters are entitled to vote at the polls within the precinct where possible. Pollworkers are obligated to provide whatever assistance is needed to facilitate the voting process. Disabled voters with an inaccessible polling place are eligible to vote without notice at the:
Department of Elections 2978 W. Grand Boulevard Detroit, Michigan 48202 until the close of voting at 8:00 p.m. on Election Day. If additional information is needed, or to confirm disabled accessibility, please contact the Department of Elections office at (313) 876-0190.
Janice M. Winfrey City Clerk & Chairperson Detroit Election Commission
Best In Black Voting Closes with Nearly 500, 000 Votes Cast
Best In Black Awards Saturday, November 11th • 7pm Music Hall POWERED BY REAL TIMES MEDIA
Page A-3
michiganchronicle.com
October 18-24, 2017
City of Detroit receives its second credit rating upgrade in less than three years Detroit’s underlying credit rating took another major step forward as Moody’s Investors Service upgraded the city’s rating a full level. The rating agency also assigned a positive outlook for further upward movement in the coming years amid signs of strong management of the city’s finances. The rating upgrade indicates stronger confidence in the city’s financial outlook since it emerged from bankruptcy nearly three years ago, and it comes as Detroit prepares to place $125 million in financing as part of a $317 million project to revitalize neighborhood commercial corridors throughout the city along with extensive road and sidewalk repairs. “When we exited bankruptcy, many questioned whether Detroit would be able to manage its finances going forward,” Mayor Mike Duggan said. “Two credit rating upgrades in less than three years and a positive outlook from Moody’s show just how fast our financial turnaround is succeeding.” The B1 rating is the city’s highest by Moody’s since March 2012. Moody’s raised Detroit’s rating on its general obligation unlimited tax pledge to B1 from B2, up from Caa3 in 2013. “We have been very conservative in our projections, and we’re executing a plan to address our legacy pension obligations and produce surpluses each year to reinvest in vital city services and our neighborhoods,” Duggan said. “Job growth is well under way and the city’s economic performance is strong.” Moody’s noted as much, citing Detroit’s efforts to revitalize neighborhoods as a sign of strength in the city’s financial outlook. According to Moody’s, “the upgrade to B1 reflects improved fund balance and liquidity coupled with adoption of a pension funding strategy that will lessen the budgetary impact of a future spike in required contributions. The rating also considers the very conservative fiscal approach of Detroit's current administration as well as the city's current economic performance, which is strong considering its historic contraction.” Moody’s report stated that Detroit has the following credit strengths: • Very healthy fund balance and liquidity provide resources to invest in economic development or absorb a short-lived budgetary shock • Job growth is fueling rising income taxes, positioning the city for operating surpluses in the coming years • Very conservative fiscal management is intent on keeping general operating expenses below the current revenue intake in order to address long-term pension funding needs • Increased road funding from the State of Michigan (Aa1 stable) will support Detroit’s neighborhood revitalization initiative
See CREDIT
RATING page A4
Is this the shape of things to come for Detroit?
Why Amazon?
Members of Detroit’s Amazon HQ committee tasked with landing the business behemoth make the case for why this matters By Keith A. Owens
Wayne County Executive Warren Evans
ogy, e-commerce and logistics.
Senior Editor
“A development of this magnitude would bring jobs and investment at levels few projects could. It will also significantly impact the tax base, which will better fund the services the city provides to its residents. Now, if you’re sitting below the poverty line or struggling to find a job, that may not get you excited. I wouldn’t blame you if you felt that way. But this level of outside investment would infuse the city with energy and resources that weren’t there beforehand. That’s going to create opportunities and impact throughout the region.”
“And fourth, it could accelerate the region’s adoption of a comprehensive, effective public transit system that ensures that all city residents have ready and affordable access to the region’s employment centers, health care facilities and recreational amenities.
Amazon announced on Oct. 5 that it is planning to open a second headquarters, to be called Amazon HQ2. Facing steep competition — and some might say steeper odds — a broad list of 59 local and regional power players, led by Rock Financial’s Dan Gilbert, is betting Detroit can convince Amazon that the Motor City is home sweet home, as well as a swell place to park all those jobs and all that cash. I asked a cross-section of those committee members to share their thoughts on why they think this is such a big deal for all of Detroit. Amazon has set an Oct. 19 deadline — meaning tomorrow — for cities to submit bids. Why should your average Detroiter care about whether or not Detroit lands Amazon? Nearly more than one-third of Detroiters are living at or below the poverty line, and more than that are functionally illiterate. How will landing Amazon improve their lives? Mayor Mike Duggan “Opportunity is what lifts people out of poverty and bringing Amazon to Detroit would create a level of opportunity we’ve not seen in generations. Amazon could create up to 50,000 jobs in the metro area. While we still are learning exactly what types of jobs would be included in the 50,000, there’s no doubt they will span a wide variety of job sectors and skill levels. One of the things Detroit needs most is more jobs in the city limits. The income taxes alone that would be generated by 50,000 jobs would be a tremendous boost to the city’s tax base. That’s money we could use to fund critical city services and continued investment in our neighborhoods.”
Dennis Archer, Jr. “The average Detroiter should care about Amazon coming to Detroit for several reasons. To outline the one most obvious to me: Amazon would bring thousands of new technology-related jobs to Detroit. That will not only add significant business and payroll taxes to the city which can, in turn, be used to improve public services to all citizens, it will also create more demand for incremental jobs in various areas, such as legal, service industry, maintenance, hospitality, real estate, dry cleaning, physicians, etc. That’s good for our entire community. Additionally, having thousands of jobs in this sector coming on line over the course of several years should encourage our educational institutions to adapt their curriculums to address these opportunities.” Rip Rapson “First, it increases the tax base, injecting new financial capacity into city government’s ability to provide all residents with improved public services. “Second, it contributes to long-term economic stabilization by helping diversify our economy. “Third, it provides a wide spectrum of possible employment ladders in technol-
“But we cannot seek and embrace an investment of this type without insisting — guaranteeing — that the positive benefits are genuinely equitable. “Landing Amazon will reportedly translate into thousands of jobs and job opportunities for Detroiters, perhaps more at one time that any time in Detroit’s recent history. But will Detroiters qualify for these jobs?” Mayor Mike Duggan “Again, these 50,000 jobs will span a wide range of employment opportunities — and that’s just direct Amazon jobs. We will also continue to implement new Detroit At Work programs to train Detroiters for careers such as software engineering and logistics. If Amazon chooses Detroit, we will have several years to ramp up and train as many Detroiters as possible so they are prepared for these jobs when they become available. Detroit also is one of very few cities nationally that has a program — The Detroit Promise — that guarantees any high school graduate will have the opportunity to go to college and get the education and training they need to land these high paying Amazon jobs. Wayne County Executive Warren Evans “There has been a stronger effort in recent years to help more Detroiters pursue training and education needed in today’s workforce. There’s obviously more work to do on that front, but we’re making progress and this project can hopefully move us closer to the day when we
See WHY
AMAZON page A4
Wayne, Oakland County executives join in legal fight against opioid crisis By Keith A. Owens
for prosecutorial services. Obviously the increased cost for medical services. All of those are things that impact a community of taxpayers who would much rather see those dollars go to other areas that are needed and not be a part of a drug problem.
Senior Editor
Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans and Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson announced last week that they would be filing a joint lawsuit against multiple drug manufacturers and distributors alleging the deceptive marketing and sale of opioids — a dangerous, highly addictive and often lethal class of painkillers, including OxyContin and Fentanyl. The lawsuit, the first such suit filed in Michigan, comes as opioid-related deaths continue to climb and opioid-related addiction continues to devastate communities across the country. The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. “This is a full-blown health
“I see it as corporation profits that completely disregard human life. And I think it’s something that we as county executives have to look at and we have to take some definitive action to deal with this.”
E. Powell Miller (left), lead counsel, Miller Law Firm, Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans and Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson crisis from which the drug companies made billions,” said Evans. “People are dying and lives are being ruined by addiction as this horrible tragedy
unfolds. There has to be a price to be paid when corporations show such disregard for human life. … It is a very dark chapter in my book in terms of what it
does to lives. But it’s equally a dark chapter in terms of what it does to our collective budgets. The increased cost for law enforcement, the increased cost
The lawsuit alleges that one of the main drivers of the catastrophic nationwide opioid epidemic is drug manufacturers’ deceptive marketing and sale of opioids to treat chronic pain, including their concerted, coordinated strategy to shift the way in which doctors and pa-
See OPIOID
CRISIS page A4
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Why Amazon? From page A-3
don’t have to ask that question.” Dennis Archer, Jr. “Yes, Detroiters who have skills in coding, technology and supply chain logistics will be in high demand — today and tomorrow — by companies like Amazon. Detroiters who today lack those skills can still benefit from the spinoff jobs created by an influx of higher income technology workers. More importantly, this opportunity highlights the importance that both our present-day workforce and those soon to enter it, regardless of skill level, need to learn about these new technologies and acquire the requisite skills to be relevant in the 21st century workplace.” Rip Rapson
Work begins on Ella Fitzgerald Park, ‘HomeBase’ in Liv6 Livernois-McNichols Area Government, civic and neighborhood leaders have announced the first groundbreakings in efforts to revitalize the Livernois-McNichols area – the new 2.5-acre Ella Fitzgerald Park in the city-led Fitzgerald Revitalization Project and the nearby “HomeBase” community center. Kresge Foundation President Rip Rapson, University of Detroit Mercy President Antoine Garibaldi, Prairie Block Club President Darnetta Banks, and Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan led the ceremony, which began at the park. “Kresge’s commitments alone across the broad Livernois-McNichols area will exceed $20 million over the next several years,” says Rapson. “That ranges from support for Live6 and the new HomeBase to neighborhood arts projects to support for housing and Ella Fitzgerald Park and greenway development. And we are only one of a number of funders and groups coming together here.” The Ella Fitzgerald Park groundbreaking is the first major construction of the two-year Fitzgerald Revitalization Project, which the city is leading that will see some 115 vacant homes rehabbed for rental or sale, 16 demolished and nearly 200 vacant lots turned into greenways, gardens, flowering meadows or other community assets. The Platform and Century Partners were announced earlier this year as developers for the residential development for the quarter-square-mile within the Livernois-McNichols area that is home to 600 families. Ella Fitzgerald Park construction, funded separately through public and philanthropic investment, will be followed by home renovations and landscaping later this year. Funding for the park – located between Prairie and San Juan Streets within the Fitzgerald neighborhood – is being provided through the Reimagining the Civic Commons Initiative supported by The JPB Foundation, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, The Kresge Foundation and The Rockefeller Foundation. “The start of this project is a major milestone in our efforts to revitalize many of our neighborhoods that have experienced a loss in population,” says Duggan. “By working closely with the community and partners like Kresge, we are turning the vacant land, once seen as a liability, into an asset.” The new city park will have a multipurpose sports field and basketball court, as well as play equipment and plenty of greenspace. Most importantly, it will be an attractive gathering place for the surrounding community. Michigan Recreational Construction Inc (MRCI) will be providing the construction services for Ella Fitzgerald Park. They will be working with Joiner Landscaping, LLC, led by Mike Joiner, a longtime City of Detroit firefighter as well as Detroit Ready Mix Concrete, a Detroit Headquartered Business and Detroit Small Business. University of Detroit Mercy’s Garibaldi calls the beginning of work on HomeBase a milestone for the community and the Live6 Alliance. That nonprofit planning and development organization for the Livernois-McNichols area was
launched by University of Detroit Mercy and The Kresge Foundation roughly two years ago. “You can’t underestimate what the establishment of HomeBase will do to accelerate the collaboration between the various organizations who are working toward revitalizing this area,” says Lauren Hood, Live6 Alliance co-director. “And a well-trafficked office can only help spur more development in the immediate vicinity. This means there’ll be one less abandoned building on this street. We’ll be a good neighbor to the about-to-open coffee shop next door, the restaurant in the works across the street and the other active buildings in the vicinity. Activity attracts more activity for everyone. “The establishment of offices here will speed tangible neighborhood improvements, including bringing new life to this reviving commercial strip,” added Dr. Garibaldi. “As a representative of Prairie Street and of the community,” says Banks, “we are waiting on tip- toe with anticipation. We’re excited about the groundbreaking and completion of the Ella Fitzgerald Park and long-awaited ventures.”
“In addition to the direct jobs proposed by Amazon, a development of this size has the potential to not only create thousands of indirect jobs, but to help sustain and grow businesses of all sizes that will be essential to support Amazon, its employees and visitors. From construction and professional services to vendors and surrounding retail, restaurants, entertainment and hospitality, there will be an impressive cascading of new, resultant employment opportunities. “But the community must prioritize what that means for Detroiters. Working together, government, business, nonprofits and philanthropic sectors must make a concerted effort to challenge the barriers that leave too many of our citizens behind. “Amazon obviously has a clear idea of what it wants/needs from wherever it chooses to locate its new headquarters. But what does Detroit want/need/expect from Amazon?” Mayor Mike Duggan “We’d expect from Amazon what we expect of any company that locates in our city, which is to be a good corporate citizen and create jobs and opportuni-
October 18-24, 2017
Page A-4
ties in Detroit.” Wayne County Executive Warren Evans “Working with Amazon to locate facilities in Livonia and Romulus, we have some familiarity with them. This project would root them deeper into our community and we feel they’ll contribute in significant ways that stretch well beyond their daily business. That’s what you want all corporations to do, and this wouldn’t be any different.” Dennis Archer, Jr. “What I want from Amazon is a commitment to mentor Detroit’s kids, to showcase how working hard in school can benefit them in the long term. I want them to go out of their way to ensure that people of color and women are afforded opportunities up and down their organizational charts. I want them to go out into the communities and touch and feel Detroit and not be behind the tall walls and fences of a single campus. I want them to support our charities, our phenomenal cultural institutions and our civic initiatives. In short, I want them to be leader and to be great corporate citizen.” Rip Rapson “The Amazon bid will be a hollow exercise if we don’t use it to do more — to view it as an inflection point for insisting that we put in place the necessary ingredients for our continuing renewal to become increasingly equitable, inclusive and just. “What does that mean? An effective regional transit system, including within the city itself. Safe, healthful and affordable housing. Commercial nodes and corridors populated with small businesses that build wealth and provide neighborhoods with a full spectrum of goods and services. Just to name a few.” Responses were edited for length. To view the responses in full, plus to view additional responses from other committee members that could not be included here, please visit the full-length post at www. michronicle.com.
“The revival of a city may begin downtown, or in a central corridor, but revival just has to become concrete across neighborhoods like this one,” says Kresge’s Rapson. “We’re learning how to make that possible with new collaborative efforts that pool ideas and resources – not the least of which are the ideas of neighbors who’ve often invested years of their lives and put down roots here.” “With a visible permanent office – working alongside Detroit Collaborative Design Center and other partners – the Live6 Alliance will be able to accomplish its nonprofit economic development work more efficiently, and residents, businesses and other organizations will be able to access those services easily,” says Dr. Garibaldi. Live6 was founded two years ago with support from Kresge, University of Detroit Mercy and the Detroit Economic Growth Corp. to facilitate new efforts and complement initiatives along the McNichols and Livernois commercial corridors. Live6 seeks to build on the community’s assets and engage its higher education anchor institutions – the University of Detroit Mercy and Marygrove College. “The establishment of HomeBase also creates a single place where residents can go with questions – whether they’re trying to get an affordable mortgage or trying to open a business, the resources to help can be found, at last, in a single space,” says Hood. “And it will be open for block club meetings and a wide variety of other community events.” To conclude the ceremony, celebrated local artist Hubert Massey unveiled renderings of two forthcoming murals that will later adorn the park. “Hands of Happiness” has hands painted in vibrant colors to reflect the Fitzgerald’s culture and resilient people. In “Celebrating Resilience and Song,” houses and trees symbolize the neighborhood’s long, rich history in the city.
Credit rating
From page A-3
“Working with the mayor and the City Council, we have implemented a number of financial reforms that have helped us get to where we are today,” said John W. Hill, the city’s Chief Financial Officer. “Moody’s report illustrates that we have strengthened the city’s financial position, have strong financial planning and budgeting practices, and are making the right decisions to ensure the city’s short- and long-term fiscal sustainability. Moody’s and the city agree that we have the potential for further rating upgrades should the current economic and financial trends continue.”
The financing will not require money from the city’s general fund. It will be repaid with money the city will receive from the increase in the state’s gas tax and vehicle registration fees.
The improved rating comes as Detroit prepares to place $125 million in financing for a major revitalization project that targets improvements to commercial business corridors such as Livernois, West Vernor and East Warren avenues, including road repairs, sidewalk upgrades and redesigned streetscapes to encourage reinvestment and walkability for residents. The financing is part of $317 million infrastructure project that will include improvements to 300 miles of roads and hundreds of thousands of broken sidewalk segments across the city.
Dr. Ken Harris, president and CEO of the National Business League (NBL), supports the Pistons move to Detroit. The NBL, whose aim is to promote black business interests, has purchased a suite in LCA and will continue to hold the Pistons organization to its commitment to diversity when it comes to business procurement and hiring.
Pistons
From page A-1
“The Pistons really don’t mean anything to me,” Bailey stated this week. “I feel that the money could have been used more wisely. For what they used for this stadium, the money could have gone into the neighborhoods of Detroit.”
“We’re extremely excited about the Detroit Pistons returning home, back to heart of the city,” Harris, an African American Detroit resident who resides in the area where the practice facility will be located, stated this week.
Opioid crisis From page A-3
tients think about pain and to encourage the widespread prescribing and use of opioids. The complaint alleges that defendants intentionally misled doctors and patients about the appropriate uses, risks, safety and efficacy of prescription opioids while downplaying the risks of addiction. The defendants in the case are Purdue Pharma, L.P., Cephalon, Inc., Endo International, PLC, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, Ltd., Teva Pharmaceuticals, USA, Inc., Insys Therapeutics, Inc., AmerisourceBergen Corporation, Cardinal Health, Inc., McKesson Corporation, Mallinckrodt PLC and Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals. “The opioid industry has taken a page out of big tobacco’s playbook,” said Patterson. “They utilized misleading information, marketing campaigns and studies to convince the public that their product was safe. They put profits over people and now people are paying the price, some with their lives. “In 2016, there were 743, 969 opioid prescriptions written in Oakland County, for a total of 55,758,186 opioid pills. That’s enough for every man, woman and child in my county to have 45 pills each. That’s really the problem. We’re flooding the market, and I really don’t think the manufacturers or distributors of these kinds of drugs really care so long as it drives bottom line profits.” In all, more than 183,000 people died in the United States between 1999 and 2015 from overdoses directly related to prescription opioids. In 2016, opioid-related deaths in Wayne County alone totaled 817, up from 506 in 2015, a 61% increase. Opioid related deaths in Oakland County increased 267% from nine deaths in 2009 to 33 in 2015.
Wayne and Oakland counties have also suffered significant financial consequences that continue to grow as a result of opioid over-prescription and addiction, including increased costs for law enforcement, courts, jails, emergency and medical care services, public works and substance abuse treatment and diversion plans. “Michigan doctors are prescribing more opiate prescriptions than Michigan has people. Now if that’s not a giant red flag of the seriousness of the problem, that there are more prescriptions than there are people, then I don’t know what could be,” said lead counsel E. Powell Miller of the Miller Law Firm, which is representing both counties. “Manufacturers of opioids have misled doctors and the public about the dangers of opioids, which has led to a massive increase in the sales of opiates, and dramatic increases in addiction, overdoses, deaths and suffering for many families in Wayne County and Oakland County. “Manufacturers have engaged in a long-term deceptive disinfomation campaign to encourage the use of opioids to treat not just what they were traditionally used for, like post-surgical pain or end stage cancer, but to change the dynamics for those prescriptions to go much broader. To prescribe for common chronic pain conditions. So they went from a very small market, but motivated by huge multibillion dollar profits went for common chronic pain, which is a market close to one-third of the population of the United States.” The complaint alleges that defendants, including McKesson, AmerisourceBergen and Cardinal Health which are each among the top 15 companies in the Fortune 500, have reaped tremendous profits from these practices. In 2011, pharmaceutical companies generated revenues of $11 billion from opioid sales alone. Lawsuit official documents can be found at Millerlawpc.com/opioid.
community
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
October 18-24, 2017
Page A-5
Just Energy to expand Detroit Market Operation with up to 100 new hires
Detroit Water and Sewerage Department receives global award The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department was presented with the Oracle Cloud Platform Innovation Award at the technology company’s annual global conference, Oracle OpenWorld, last week in San Francisco, California. DWSD implemented a strategy of shifting to the Oracle Cloud to leverage capital savings into key projects, including the launch of payment kiosks and a new customer care web portal. Organizations across the globe that use the Oracle Cloud Platform were eligible to apply for the award. According to Oracle, 58 recipients were selected from around the world, representing a wide range of organizations from small and medium businesses to the largest enterprises. DWSD was the only Midwest municipal agency honored. The award was given to organizations that innovated their use of cloud resources to improve service to their customers or community. “The use of technology is essential in transforming a water utility into an organization that provides responsive and compassionate customer service at their convenience,” said Gary Brown, DWSD director. “We appreciate Oracle acknowledging our innovative mindset at DWSD, and we are honored to receive this prestigious technology award. Every day, Detroiters are benefiting from Oracle Cloud because it provided DWSD the capacity to increase payment options that are convenient and expected by today’s customer.” As a result of the use of Oracle Cloud and other tools, DWSD reinvested capital dollars, otherwise spent on traditional IT hardware and software, to improve customer service by joining the DivDat payment kiosk network with 31 loca-
tions and launch a new, mobile-friendly and Amazon Alexa-ready, customer portal. Without the switch to Oracle Cloud, DWSD would have needed to increase its budget, which would impact water and sewer rates, in order to join the kiosk network and develop the web portal. “Detroiters expect improved service delivery and responsiveness to their issues while not increasing costs,” said Dan Rainey, DWSD chief information officer, who accepted the award on behalf of the City of Detroit at the Oracle OpenWorld conference. “We have reduced our IT costs by moving to the cloud, and at the same time provided innovation and flexibility for our organization and customers.” DWSD joined the DivDat kiosk network in March. Find your nearest kiosk atwww.detroitmi.gov/dwsdkiosk. The DWSD customer care web portal, a mobile-friendly bill payment tool where you can also view your real-time water usage, developed in partnership with Detroit-based CityInsight, was launched in August. Customers can register at www.detroitmi.gov/paymywaterbill, and use Amazon Alexa to check your account balance and water usage. About The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department
Just Energy, a leading retail energy provider specializing in electricity and natural gas commodities, energy efficiency, and renewable energy options, has announced plans to expand its Detroit market operations by hiring up to 100 new staff, partnering with city workforce agency Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (DESC) to access to a broad pool of Detroit talent. With existing Corporate and Sales offices in Bingham Farms and the potential for future expansion, Just Energy is looking to immediately hire for sales and other related positions, with the potential to hire over 100 individuals within the next 18-24 months. As part of Michigan’s Careers in Energy Week, the company will host two Open Houses on October 18th and October 25th from 2pm-5pm at its Bingham Farms office, 30300 Telegraph Rd., Suite 201. The Open Houses will offer a meet and greet to
find out more about the company, as well as the opportunity to secure an on-site interview, or schedule one for a later date. Open House attendees are asked to bring a resume and be interview-ready. “If you’re energized by meeting new people and have a passion for learning, the Open Houses are great opportunities for jobseekers to get to know Just Energy,” said Julie Hextell, Senior VP and Regional General Manager of Just Energy’s US Midwest market. “As frontline representatives, Energy Advisors are ambassadors who play a key role in communicating and marketing, talking to people face-to face at their home, and serving as immediate resources to field questions directly with potential customers.” Just Energy first launched operations in Michigan in 2009 to sell natural gas supply as an alternative to the utility. Since then, the company has grown to be a market leader in commodity supply, as well as in
SAVE THE DATE
The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) serves more than 230,000 accounts that includes a residential population of 680,000. DWSD’s water network consists of more than 2,700 miles of water main and nearly 3,000 miles of sewer collection piping within the city of Detroit. To learn more about DWSD or to request water services, make payments, or report water problems, call DWSD at 313-267-8000 or visit us at detroitmi.gov/dwsd.
offering innovative, environmentally-focused energy and resource management solutions, such as smart thermostats; home energy reports; digital, self-regulating smart home irrigation controllers; furnace filters, and LED bulbs. “Just Energy is a global company with 20 years of experience, and approximately 1.5 million customers, but we still have a local mindset and commitment to investing in the communities we serve,” said Jay Lewis, Just Energy’s co-Chief Executive Officer. “We are proud to be able to grow our presence in the Detroit market as a vested member of that community, and to bring more opportunities to Detroiters.” Jobseekers interested in applying do not need to register to attend the Open Houses. They can also visit any DESC office for help developing a resume. DESC offices are located at 9301 Michigan Ave., 5555 Conner and 18100 Meyers.
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tUeSdaY, november 7, 2017 “I’m just sick and tired of being sick and tired!” – Fannie Lou Hamer (1917-1977)
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Mike Duggan* Mayor, City of Detroit
Brenda Jones*
Detroit City Council (At-Large)
An initiAtive to enAct A medicAl mArihuAnA fAcilities ordinAnce
Mike Duggan*
Brenda Jones* Janeé Ayers*
James tate* no endorsement scott Benson* Andre spivey* mary sheffield* tyrone carter no endorsement
Vote NO A PrOPOsAL TO AMEnD THE DETrOIT ZOnIng OrDInAnCE, CHAPTEr 61 OF THE DETrOIT CITY CODE, COnsIsTEnT wITH THE MICHIgAn MEDICAL MArIHuAnA FACILITIEs LICEnsIng ACT
DETROIT CITY CLERK
Garlin D. Gilchrist II STATE REPRESENTATIVE District 1
Incumbent* Remember to just fill in the ovals
?
The proposal would amend the Detroit Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 61 the 1984 Detroit City Code, Article Ill, Division 12, Sections 61-3351 through 61-3-354, to establish land use standards and procedures for the regulation of medical marihuana facilities consistent with the Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act, 2016 PA 281, to provide definitions, to designate medical marihuana facilities, including growers, processors, provisioning centers, safety compliance facilities, and secure transporters, as permitted uses subject to site plan approval and use regulations in specified zoning districts, to require compliance with zoning district standards, and to authorize fees to the City.
Flagstar Bank is dedicated to the success of the areas we serve. Our customers are our neighbors, families and friends. Our communities are the places we call home. Our mission is to make the dream of home ownership a reality for everyone. • Low to no down payment mortgage options • Specialty area grant and gift programs available • Down payment assistance available • No obligation mortgage review
Should this proposal be adopted?
Vote NO
Visit flagstar.com/welcomehome or call (866) 372-0498 to speak to one of our loan officers today.
about Fannie Lou Hamer
Fannie Lou Hamer 1917-1977
Fannie Lou Hamer worked tirelessly and yielded up her life to support social, economic and political issues that impacted African Americans from Mississippi to Michigan. This Political Action Committee maintains that same tradition of activism and dedication. We are committed to supporting candidates for federal, state and local offices who have evidenced a constructive progressive position on key issues. These issues impact our community without regard to race, religion, sex or creed.
Paid for by the Fannie Lou Hamer Political Action Committee • P.O. Box 21940 • Detroit, MI 48221-0940 • www.flhpac.org Barry Brown, Treasurer • Yvette McElroy Anderson, Field Director.
Est. 1987
Equal Housing Lender
Member FDIC
Some restrictions may apply. All borrowers are subject to credit approval. Programs subject to change without notice. Underwriting terms and conditions apply.
T:10.5”
DETROIT CITY COUNCIL (BY DISTRICT)
S:10.25”
This proposed ordinance would amend Chapter 24, Article XIII, of the 1984 Detroit City Code. Medical Marihuana Caregiver Centers, to opt into the Michigan Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act, Public Act 281 of 2016 to provide for standards and procedures to license and regulate medical marihuana facilities through the Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department and to impose conditions for operation and locational specifications for schools, public libraries, religious institutions, and other medical marihuana facilities. Should this proposal be enacted?
DETROIT CITY COUNCIL (AT-LARGE)
Tenisha Yancey
Detroit City Clerk Candidate
PROPOSAL SECTION CITY
MAYOR CITY OF DETROIT
district 1 district 2 district 3 district 4 district 5 district 6 district 7
Garlin D. Gilchrist II
Janeé Ayers* Detroit City Council (At-Large)
We can help you realize it.
Page A-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • October 18-24, 2017
Survivor Soundoff In recognition of October Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Michigan Chronicle wants to hear from you. Post stories about your heroic journey – the good times and any challenges you faced. Let us know how you are today … continuing your journey as a strong survivor. Tag us so your story will appear in our facebook newsfeed; include the hashtag #survivorsoundoff. Select stories will appear in the Michigan Chronicle newspaper and online. Don’t forget to include a photo of yourself. Selfies are welcome. Sharing is caring about others who undoubtedly be inspired and strengthened by you.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month We want to hear from you!
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COMMUNITY Powered by Real Times Media
michiganchronicle.com
October 18-24, 2017
Comerica colleagues assisted at the Parade Studio helping paint, wash and repair floats during the bank’s National Days of Service.
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Comerica Bank employees volunteer across metro Detroit as part of Comerica colleagues helped beautify Auburn Hills, Mich. by picking up litter along Squirrel Road.
National Day of Service
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hat seems like a typical Saturday in September to most means something different to Comerica Bank employees. Recognized by the bank as National Day of Service, on the fourth Saturday in September Comerica colleagues embark on volunteer projects across the country donating their time and talents to different organizations Comerica supports -- many in southeast Michigan. In 2008, Comerica was nationalizing and unifying its volunteer program, Comerica Cares, so if Comerica employees were volunteering in Texas or California, it looked the same no matter the market; most notably with the blue Comerica Cares t-shirts employees wear proudly while volunteering.
Comerica colleagues Catherine Nardi, commercial underwriter, and Lisa Fitzpatrick-Keeler, Business Banking relationship manager and president of the Crossroads of Michigan board of trustees, met with Crossroads of Michigan Soup Kitchen Supervisor Sister Elizabeth Walters while volunteering at the soup kitchen.
National Day of Service started that same year to help launch the united program. From 2008 on, it has grown and become engrained in Comerica’s culture -- from employees to executives, many can be found volunteering throughout September. “National Day of Service is our anchor volunteer day in September, but to maximize our impact in the community we work with nonprofits to include different volunteer projects throughout the month,” said Patricia McCann, national civic affairs manager, Comerica Bank. “It’s important for us to be flexible to help the organizations’ meet their needs and achieve their mission to best serve our community.”
See DAY OF SERVICE page B-2
Marina Vuljaj, daughter of Comerica colleague Grose Vuljaj, and Rechieal Holmes, trust coordinator for Comerica Bank, worked together to help prepare sandwiches before they were served to those in need at the Crossroads of Michigan Soup Kitchen.
Ketra Lewis, vice president, Enterprise-Wide Compliance for Comerica Bank, helped prepare more than 3,000 sandwiches that were served from The Salvation Army Bed & Bread truck to help feed Detroit’s poorest neighborhoods.
Comerica colleagues raised nearly $4,000 to support the Michigan Humane Society at the 12th annual Mega March for Animals on Belle Isle during National Days of Service.
community
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
October 18-24, 2017
Page B-2
Comerica Bank’s New Michigan Index Drops
Comerica Bank’s new Michigan Economic Activity Index decreased by 0.5 percent in July to a level of 117.9. July’s reading is 21 points, or 21 percent, above the index cyclical low of 97.9. The index averaged 117.1 points for all of 2016, one and four-fifths points above the index average for 2015. June’s index reading was 118.6.
More than 38,000 pounds of milk and 3,000 pounds of tomatoes were packed at Forgotten Harvest as part of Comerica’s National Days of Service.
Day of service From page B-1
Throughout September volunteers took part in different service projects such as the “Keep It Clean” program in Auburn Hills where employees participated in a beautification project to clean up the city. Volunteers also spent time at Forgotten Harvest, The Parade Company, The Salvation Army Bed & Bread kitchen, the American Cancer Society Cattle Baron’s Ball and more. “We look for volunteer opportunities at organizations we have relationships with and that align with our mission and the needs of the community,” McCann said. “We also like to get involved with projects and organizations that are important to our colleagues.” Comerica’s community commitment doesn’t stop or start in September. It is visible year round.
Lyssa Wilson, assistant manager of Comerica’s McNichols-Meyer banking center, helped prepare dinner for residents at the Ronald McDonald House of Detroit. People staying at the house have children or family members hospitalized nearby and canCREbe close1 to their loved CBP-6100-12 Ad-MM.pdf 8/3/16 10:07 AM ones seeking treatment.
Comerica has donated more than half a million volunteer hours to the communities it serves since 2008, valued at more than $13 million dollars. Comerica contributed more than $8 million to not-for-profit organizations in 2016 and the bank’s employees raised nearly $1.7 million for the United Way and the Black United Fund. This year, Comerica was recognized as one of the most communi-
The Comerica Bank Michigan Economic Activity Index decreased moderately by 0.5 percent in July. This year the Michigan Index has not shown consistent momentum, so far failing to put together backto-back monthly increases in 2017. The state economy could get a temporary boost from auto production this fall as households and companies along the Gulf Coast replace vehicles that were flooded out from Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. However, our long-term outlook for vehicle production still calls for gradual declines over the next year despite the temporary boost to demand this fall. Only two out of nine index components were positive in July, industrial electricity use and state sales tax revenues. The nonfarm employment sub-index was unchanged for the month. Initial claims for unemployment insurance (inverted), housing starts, house Robert A. Dye prices, vehicle production, state trade and hotel occupancy were all negatives in July. Monthly job growth in Michigan has stepped down this year. In 2016 the state averaged a net gain of 7,700 jobs per month. Through the first eight months of 2017, the average has dropped to 3,000 net new jobs per month. The rapid rebound in manufacturing employment following the Great Recession has likely played out. Going forward, we expect to see flat to declining manufacturing employment, consistent with a mature business cycle and ongoing productivity gains for the state’s industrial base.
ty-minded companies in the nation as part of The Civic 50, an initiative of Points of Light, the world’s largest organization dedicated to volunteer service. It is the third time Comerica has been named to this list. Volunteering and giving for most Comerica colleagues is a family activity. Many colleagues will bring their children, spouses and family members to volunteer opportunities offered through the Comerica Cares program. During National Day of Service colleagues, friends and family helped paint floats at The Parade Company and helped prepare meals at Crossroads of Michigan. “One of the best photos I’ve seen from our community efforts, was a colleague spreading mulch at Calcara Park on Detroit’s east side with her baby strapped to her back,” said McCann. “It just shows how much volunteering is in our DNA, our colleagues’ and how they share that with their families.” Since January, Comerica has dedicated more than 35,000 hours to improving the quality of life in the community and will continue to spearhead different volunteer projects across Detroit and the nation. “We are members of the community. We volunteer and donate our time because we should and because collectively we can make a difference.”
The Michigan Economic Activity Index consists of eight variables, as follows: nonfarm payrolls, exports, hotel occupancy rates, continuing claims for unemployment insurance, housing starts, sales tax revenues, home prices, and auto production. All data are seasonally adjusted, and indexed to a base year of 2008. Nominal values have been converted to constant dollar values. Index levels are expressed in terms of three-month moving averages. Comerica Bank, with more than 200 banking centers in Michigan, is a subsidiary of Comerica Incorporated (NYSE: CMA), a financial services company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, and strategically aligned by three business segments: The Business Bank, The Retail Bank, and Wealth Management. Comerica focuses on relationships, and helping people and businesses be successful. In addition to Michigan and Texas, Comerica Bank locations can be found in Arizona, California, and Florida, with select businesses operating in several other states, as well as in Canada and Mexico. To subscribe to our publications or for questions, contact us at ComericaEcon@comerica.com. Archives are available at http://www.comerica.com/economics. Follow us on Twitter: @Comerica_Econ.
Let’s grow, right now. When it comes to business, timing is everything.
MEMBER FDIC. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY LENDER. Comerica Bank NMLS ID: 480990 *Comerica ranks first nationally among the top 25 U.S. financial holding companies, based on commercial and industrial loans outstanding as a percentage of assets. Data provided by SNL Financial, June 2015. CBP-6100-12 08/16
And, with historically low rates, there’s never been a more opportunistic time to expand your business with a commercial real estate loan from Comerica. As the leading bank for business*, we’ve been financing business expansion for nearly 150 years. Whether you need to build or purchase, expand or refinance, it’s the right time. Are you ready? Call 800.705.2387, stop by a Comerica banking center or visit comerica.com/cre.
®
RAISE YOUR EXPECTATIONS.
community
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
October 18-24, 2017
Page B-3
Battling bullying, a crucial issue By Ken Coleman Athena Hall was about a dozen pounds overweight when she attended Burton International Academy during the 1990s. She was teased, bullied, and kept to herself during recess and visited the library for refuge during her lunch period.
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“That way, I felt, no one would see me by myself,” Athena recalled.
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S.R. Taylor, Athena’s mother, has penned a children’s book on the subject. Titled “Round,” the publication tells the story of chubby Olivia Catherine Amanda Mae Brown and her desire to be selected to perform in her school’s theatrical production, “The Backyard Ballet.” Olivia wants to be a butterfly but was made to feel like a beetle by classmates. “You’re just entirely too round, Olivia Catherine Amanda Mae Brown,” says one student. “Can you even dance or jump high off the ground?” “We were inspired to write this because of the journey that she went through, Taylor said. “Athena was made to feel different. She was ostracized.” Two of the main reasons people are bullied are because of appearance and social status. In a recent national survey of overweight sixth graders, 24 percent of the boys and 30 percent of the girls experienced daily teasing, bullying or rejection because of their size. The number doubles for overweight high school students with 58 percent of boys and 63 percent of girls experiencing daily teasing, bullying or rejection because of their size. African Americans, Latinos and Native Americans have experienced the highest rates of increase in childhood obesity. On average, 25 percent of children in
Willie Brake these ethnic groups are affected by obesity.
incidents at school level. Not district-wide.
The issue has been so impactful that even Lansing turned its attention to it. Gov. Rick Snyder signed an anti-bullying law on Dec. 6, 2011, making the state the 48th to enact bullying legislation. “This legislation sends a clear message that bullying is wrong in all its forms and will not be tolerated,” Snyder said in a statement. “No child should feel intimidated or afraid to come to school.”
Sharon DuMas, founder of Full and Fabulous, maintains that bullying can have a devastating impact on children. For the last six years, she led a mentoring program called Curvy Girls at Catherine Blackwell Academy on the Detroit’s lower east side. There, she encountered girls who have attempted suicide because of their weight.
It originated as Matt’s Safe School Law, so named for Southeast Michigan eighth grader Matt Epling, who took his life in 2002 after a school hazing bullying incident. Schools are required to create and implement anti-bullying plans if they do not have one already. The act requires schools to inform the parents or legal guardians of bullies and their victims, and create a procedure for the reporting and documentation of cases of bullying. The Detroit Public Schools Community District tracks
“We work with them to build their confidence, their self-esteem, to show them a different person than who the kids are teasing,” says DuMas who started her organization in 1982. “It’s a process.” Donna Ballard’s daughter, Allison, was recommended to DuMas’ Curvy Girl program by a therapist. Ballard points out that her child’s self-esteem has risen. “She sees things differently,” Ballard says of her University Prep Math and Science ninth grader. Cynthia Caldwell is also impressed with the
program. Her daughters, Elaina and Shantelle, have experienced debutante balls, etiquette classes and other rites of passage exercises. “She makes them feel good about themselves,” Caldwell said of DuMas. DuMas offers the following tips for parents and children: • Understand that being an overweight child is not easy. Some \ can’t control their eating habits. • Buy healthy foods intended for the whole family; limit snacking; make sure they are drinking plenty of water. • Don’t allow siblings to tease or call your overweight child names or make fat jokes about them. • Ask your child if they are being teased or bullied frequently The Obesity Action Coalition offers the following tips and resources: • Help your child learn to defend themselves from bullies by encouraging them to stay calm,
look the bully in the eye and stand up tall. • Encourage your child to ask the adults around them for help. • Make an appointment with your school principal and your child’s teacher to inform them of the bullying and to ask their help in addressing the situation. Ask about the school policies on bullying and for any available resources to help you and your child. • When bullying incidents occur, write them down with your child. • Encourage your child to join an organization or group at school. • Enrolling children in self-defense or martial arts classes can build their confidence and teach them how to protect themselves from bullies. “I just want children to be comfortable in the skin that they are in and not let what others are saying affect their greatness in whatever area that is,” Athena Hall said.
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NMSDC Conference 2017: Today’s suppliers must step up to meet tomorrow’s challenges By Sylvester Hester GAA President and CEO
This week, Detroit welcomes some 6,000 visitors to the National Minority Supplier Development Council’s 2017 Conference and Business Opportunity Exchange, the nation’s premier forum on minority supplier development. NMSDC touts the ability to attract to our city “CEOs, procurement executives and supplier diversity professionals from the top multinational companies, as well as leading Asian, Black, Hispanic Sylvester Hester and Native American business owners and international organizations.” NMSDC has a 45-year track record of assisting the development of countless minority suppliers by connecting them with business opportunities globally. Detroit – a city that is rebranding and rebuilding – is the logical choice for this year’s event, themed “Fueling Economic Growth.” Fueling growth in the automobile industry requires a shift from building businesses based on mechanical cars, to building businesses based on automobiles that are increasingly interactive, computerized, electronic, electric and self-driving. Today’s suppliers are looking to construct consumer vehicles that have the comfort of a home with all of the technology buyers now expect: vivid touch-screen displays, lifelike navigation maps, hands-free phones and automatic detection sensors to guide them as they drive and park. University of Alabama Center for Advanced Vehicle Technologies Executive Director Bharat Balasubramanian is quoted by AL.com as predicting, "By 2025, 60 percent of vehicle content will be software and electrical/electronic systems."
When the industry shifts, suppliers who seek to serve that industry must be kept abreast of those changes or risk being left behind. To fully understand the significance of this shift to focus on technological expansion, we only need to look back 20 years to when automakers and suppliers were instead focused on geographic expansion, characterized as, “Go global or go home.” Today’s innovations in technology have transformed these global markets and have therefore reshaped business opportunities. We are at the revolutionary point in the technological advancement of our industry. The research and dollars being invested to fuel this new technology clearly shows it is the next industry boom. Balasubramanian notes that it will take more engineers and infrastructure to achieve the goals for the technology needed to operate self-driving cars and to facilitate business models that are now partnering automakers with shared mobility services. In addition to connectivity and mobility technology, the “go green” movement that requires less CO2 emissions and strategies to reduce congestion on the roads opens more opportunity for supplier innovation. The future ahead of us is a frontier that will motivate inventors to innovate for the convenience of the consumer and challenge suppliers to stay steps ahead. As importantly, just as the dot-com boom of the late 90s created hundreds of new technology companies providing new employment opportunities, the lessons from the accompanying dot-com bust must inform the business models now being tried out in the automotive and supplier sectors. These are the daunting challenges that those at the NMSDC will focus on as they bring corporate executives and minority suppliers together to embark on this exciting new era of opportunity. We invite you to take a seat at the table.
Civil rights leaders, clergy support federal rules to crackdown on payday lending By Charlene Crowell After five years of field hearings, town hall meetings, multiple research reports, and over one million comments, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) announced on October 5 a new rule to rein in predatory payday and car-title loans. “These protections bring needed reform to a market where far too often lenders have succeeded in setting up borrowers to fail. . . Faced with unaffordable payments, consumers must choose between defaulting, re-borrowing, or failing to pay basic living expenses or other Charlene Crowell major financial obligations,” said Richard Cordray, CFPB Director. Central to the CFPB's rule is the establishment of an ability-to-repay principle. High-cost loans of 45 days or less, as well as longer term loans that end in a balloon payment, must first take into account whether the loan is affordable when both borrower income and expenses are considered. These loans allow lenders to seize funds from either a borrowers’ bank accounts (payday loans) or repossess vehicles that were used as collateral (car-title loans). Although marketed by predatory lenders as an easy lifeline in a financial emergency, research by CFPB, and other consumer groups found otherwise: payday lending’s business model is the tool that drowns borrowers into a sea of debt. With triple-digit interest rates of 400 percent or higher, payday and car-title loans drain $8 billion in fees on loans averaging $300-$400. Borrowers stuck in more than 10 loans a year generated 75 percent of all payday loan fees. Similarly, 85 percent of car-title loan renewals occur 30 days after a previous one could not be fully repaid. Across the country, these high-cost lenders are most-often found in communities of color where Blacks, Latinos, and low-wealth families reside. The data and consistency of business locations in these areas suggest that lenders target financially vulnerable consumers. Upon learning of CFPB’s payday rule, clergy and civil rights leaders who have steadfastly opposed payday and car-title lenders’ triple-digit interest rates were swift to speak in support. Their desire to rein-in the debt trap of these unaffordable loans was both strong and consistent.
“With little accountability for their actions, payday lenders have long preyed upon communities of color and drained them of their hard-earned savings,” said Hilary O. Shelton, the NAACP’s Washington Bureau Director and Senior Vice President for Policy and Advocacy. “This CFPB rule establishes a much-needed set of transparent responsibilities for lenders and basic rights and protection for borrowers.” “We will work to defend and strengthen this rule,” continued Shelton, “so Americans face fewer burdens in establishing financial security.” For Reverend Willie Gable, Jr., Pastor of Progressive Baptist Church in New Orleans and Member of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc., the country’s largest predominantly African-American religious denomination, the payday rule was both personal and pastoral. “In my home state of Louisiana, the average payday loan interest rate is 391 percent,” said Reverend Gable, Jr., “With rates this high – and even higher in other states, cash-strapped people who needed only a couple hundred dollars soon discover they are in financial quicksand, paying loan fees were after week, that only sink them deeper into debt.” “President Trump and Congress should get on the side of civil rights advocates, the religious community, consumer organizations, and the public atlarge by supporting and strengthening the CFPB’s new rules on payday lending,” challenged Vanita Gupta, president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, a coalition of more than 200 national organizations to promote and protect the civil and human rights of all persons in the United States. “Payday lending is bad for many consumers; but like many predatory scams, it invariably ends up as a weapon against the disadvantaged communities that are least able to bear its terrible burden.” Looking ahead, many consumer advocates remain hopeful that CFPB will go even further with its rules. At both the state and federal levels, civil rights leaders and consumer advocates must remain watchful to preserve, expand, and enforce existing interest rate caps now in effect in 15 states and the District of Columbia. Advocates must also remain watchful for any congressional actions that may be taken to preempt or undermine consumer protections. CFPB’s payday rule marks a key step in disrupting the debt trap. Yet, much remains to be done before financial fairness is a reality for all.
Amazon HQ2 bid represents opportunity to fix Detroit’s lack of economic mobility
By Ida Byrd-Hill
I hear the statement, “Detroiters are not qualified as evidenced by their high school dropout rate.” Data suggests that statement is an urban myth economic development people utilize as an excuse not to hire Detroiters. Every Michigan graduate from 2011 until present has the same math and science curriculum as the graduation requirements changed in 2007 requiring algebra, geometry, biology, chemistry and physics. In 2016, Wayne County Ida Byrd-Hill graduated 16,161 high school students with Detroit based schools supplying 4023 graduates equal to 25 percent of Wayne County’s graduates. Please note: Detroit Public Schools had a graduation rate of 78.1 percent The real problem Detroit faces is the limited number of post-secondary apprenticeships, internships, co-ops or Learn N Earn programs. The book, “Invisible Talent Market,” states, “America is known around the world as the land of opportunity, the place where a person can move from the bottom of the social class ladder from underclass to capitalist. The social class ladder is defined by education, career and income rather than a permanent caste system. Ideally, the higher levels of educational attainment and skills a person possesses, the higher they could climb this social ladder.” It is more difficult for blacks living below middle class to acquire the skills to move up the ladder. When this group moves on to post-secondary training, the financial aid intended to assist them does not provide the room and board refund until the ninth week of a 12-week semester. How does one live without money for nine weeks? Many opt to work full-time and attend school parttime elongating the degree acquisition process from two years for an associate’s to five years and four years for a bachelor’s to seven years. Many eventually drop out as the need for basic necessities over the long-term becomes so great and overwhelming to balance a full time job, part-time school and children. The American Dream for blacks on the lower rungs of the social ladder, col-
lectively, is a nightmare. Pew Charitable Trust noted 62% of Americans raised in the top fifth income remain in the top two-fifths and conversely 65% raised in the bottom fifth remain in the bottom two-fifths. “Family background plays a more important role in the US,” states Miles Corak, an economist at University of Ottawa. Americans enjoy less economic mobility than their peers in Canada and much of Western Europe. Even epresentative Paul D. Ryan, a Wisconsin Republican who argues that overall mobility remains high, recently wrote that “mobility from the very bottom up” is “where the United States lags behind.” A Family Affair: Intergenerational Social Mobility across the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development Countries finds that social mobility between generations is dramatically lower in the U.S. than in many other developed countries. Apprenticeships, internships, co-ops or Learn N Earn programs can solve this dilemma as they are training with a wage. “Today in America, fewer than 5% of young people train as apprentices, the overwhelming majority in the construction trades. In Germany, the number is closer to 60 percent, in fields as diverse as advanced manufacturing, IT, banking, and hospitality. In Europe, apprenticeships are called ‘dual training’ as trainees split their days between classroom instruction at a vocational school and on-the-job time at a company. The theory they learn in class is reinforced by the practice at work. Apprentices also learn work habits, skills and responsibility. The bonus is that trainees are paid for their time, including in class. The apprenticeship arrangement lasts for two to four years, depending on the sector. Both employer and employee generally hope it will lead to a permanent job. Apprentices are a crucial talent pool.” The Amazon HQ2 bid provides Detroit leaders an opportunity to discuss apprenticeships in high demand job categories such computer programming and data analytics to accelerate Detroiters economic mobility. Uplift, Inc. recently approved as a Cisco Learning Academy stands ready to receive funding to expand the talent pool and Detroiters’ economic mobility. Ida Byrd-Hill is president of Uplift, Inc., a tech diversity and inclusion strategy nonprofit, former manager of 353 million dollars of investment assets garnered within the city of Detroit and author of “Invisible Talent Market.” www.invisibletalent.tech
When punishment can’t fit the crime By Roz Edward Managing Editor
I am not a political insider. I can only tell you the human side of things and how I see them. I can tell you about the tragedies I witnessed in Flint, and how lives were impacted by the government’s disdain and disregard for an entire – mostly African American –population. The people of Flint were disproportionately exposed to toxic and hazardous waste based on race and economics, and that’s called environmental racDebbie Norrell ism. Department of Environmental Quality and Department of Health and Human Services, civil servants, state and local officials, all obligated to protect the citizens of Flint, totally failed them. They stood by silently, heads buried in the sand as 12 died from Legionnaires disease and children suffered convulsions and seizures on an unprecedented scale. Never-the-less, they let it happen and there are consequences for that, severe consequences. Being held accountable and maybe even convicted on manslaughter charges doesn’t come near or even begin to equate on any level to the harm these inflicted on innocent men, women, seniors and children. The culprits of this manmade crisis, which has been referred to as Michigan’s Katrina, rationalize that they’re tacit involvement wasn’t intended to cause the damage it did and lay waste to an entire city. “Some people failed to act, others minimized harm done and arrogantly chose to ignore data, some intentionally altered figures … and covered up significant health risks,” Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette. In all 16 officials have been charged, felonies punishable by up to 15 years in prison, stem from the death of 85-year-old Rob-
ert Skidmore, whose December 2015 death is tied to the Legionnaire’s Disease outbreak in Flint So, adding the state’s chief medical officer’s name to the dozen or so already charged with crimes from lying to a peace officer conspiracy, willful neglect of duty and misconduct in office is absolutely appropriate and long over-due. Dr. Wells who had already been charged with obstruction of justice and lying to a peace officer now faces two new felony charges -- including involuntary manslaughter. The obstruction of justice charge carried a penalty of up to five years in prison, the manslaughter charge carries a penalty of 15 years. So, Wells is getting off relatively easy, since for now she’s only being charged for one death when in fact there were 12 people who died from Legionnaires disease and another 80 who became gravely ill. (So much for the Hippocratic Oath and that line “first do no harm.”) If Wells is convicted on the manslaughter and the obstruction of justice and the sentences run consecutively she’s looking at 20 years max. But if she is charged for all 12 she may never see the light of day again. The same is true for the Michigan Health and Human Services Director Nick Lyon. One can only hope that convictions on the criminal charges that this growing number of water crisis culprits face, will carry penalties commensurate to their crimes. Although doling out punishment to fit these crimes may be a physical impossibility based on the enormity of offenses and the destruction of life —particularly children and senior citizens — there is probably a special place rung of hell in Dante’s Inferno for them. Given Flint’s already compromised social and economic well-being and the fragile quality of life its residents have endured for years, wreaking additional havoc borders on the immoral. Worse yet, medical experts continue to express strong concern regarding how generations into the future will be affected. The Flint water crisis is our Katrina, and the prognosis is not good.
community
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
October 18-24, 2017
Page B-5
UPCOMING EVENTS
OCTOBER
Wednesday, 10.18 The Walker Legacy, #WLPower25 Power 25 Awards Reception honoring local multicultural women trailblazers 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm WeWork Campus Martius • 1001 Woodward Avenue, Detroit
Saturday, 10.21 Free Child Support Help Program Presented by the Salvation Army William Booth Legal Aid Clinic and the Wayne County Friend of the Court. The workshop will feature a joint Wayne County/Macomb County “Bench Warrant Amnesty Program” and Arrest Free Zone 1 to 4 pm. For questions, call 1-877-543-2660 Detroit Public Library • 5201 Woodward Ave. • Friends Auditorium
Sunday, 10.22 NMSDC Conference and Business Opportunity Exchange The nation’s premier forum on minority supplier development Cobo Center • 1 Washington Blvd., Detroit
10% SAVINGS
Thursday, 10.26 Black Family Development 2017 Annual Presidents Dinner and Dr. Gerald K. Smith Humanitarian Award Presentations 6 pm. For information, call 313-758-0150 MGM Grand Detroit • 1777 Third Street, Detroit
Saturday, 10.28
When your business is more energy efficient, it’s also more profitable—and DTE Energy wants to help make that happen. Take John Logiudice, owner of Florentine Pizzeria, for example. DTE worked with him to make some small changes that led to big savings. Simply installing a programmable thermostat, sink aerators, LED lights and a pre-rinse spray valve in the kitchen saved John around 10% a month on his energy bill.
Alzheimer’s Association – Greater Michigan Chapter
33rd Annual Chocolate Jubilee
An Evening in Paris 7:30 pm. Tickets required. Call 248-996-1050. MGM Grand Detroit • 1777 Third Street, Detroit
NOVEMBER Saturday, 11.4 Neighborhoods of Opportunity
8th Annual Arise Detroit Neighborhoods Rising Summit
The summit’s purpose is to equip residents with strategies to improve their neighborhoods. The event is free. Continental breakfast and lunch will be served. Downtown Campus of Wayne County Community College District 8 am to 4 pm. Register at www.arisedetroit.org. 1001 W. Fort Street • Detroit
If you’d like to manage energy use to save money at your business, visit dteenergy.com/savenow.
DECEMBER Saturday, 12.9 Franklin Wright Development
Spirit of Giving Gala
A Magical Moment in Motown, black tie, tickets required For information, call 313-579-1000, X258 8 pm
ONE DAY SALE
Approval Files: DTE/Approval Documents/Print > 2017-03-24-DTE0665-EEBiz-5x10.5-R0.pdf
Creative Files: DTE0665-Misc. Creative Projects/AFPD - EE Business/R0 > 2017-03-24-DTE0665-EEBiz-5x1 Bleed - NONE | Page 1 of 1 | Rev0 | 2017-03-24 REVISIONS DUE TO AGENCY 2017-03-24
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FREE SHIPPING ONLINE WITH $25 PURCHASE Valid 10/20-10/21/17. Exclusions apply; see macys.com/freereturns
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YOUR PURCHASE OF $50 OR MORE ON SELECT SALE CLOTHING & HOME ITEMS Valid 10/20 till 2pm or 10/21 till 2pm. In store only. Use your Macy’s Card or this pass. Exclusions apply; see below.
JUST FOR MACY’S CARDHOLDERS! USE YOUR CARD & GET AN
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Valid 10/20-10/21/17. In store only. Exclusions apply; see below. EXCLUDES ALL: Deals of the Day, Doorbusters, Everyday Values (EDV), Last Act, Macy’s Backstage, specials, Super Buys, athletic clothing/shoes/accessories, baby gear, reg.-price china/crystal/silver, cosmetics/fragrances, designer handbags, designer jewelry/watches, designer sportswear, electrics/electronics, furniture/mattresses, gift cards, jewelry trunk shows, select licensed depts., previous purchases, restaurants, rugs, services, smart watches/jewelry, special orders, special purchases, select tech accessories, toys, 3Doodler, American Rug Craftsmen, Apple Products, Ashley Graham, Avec Les Filles clothing, Barbour, Brahmin, Breville, Brooks Brothers Red Fleece, COACH, Demeyere, Destination Maternity, Dyson, Eileen Fisher SYSTEM, Fitbit, Frye, Hanky Panky, Jack Spade, Judith Leiber, Karastan, kate spade new york, Kenneth Cole shoes, KitchenAid Pro Line, Le Creuset, Levi’s, littleBits, Locker Room by Lids, Marc Jacobs, select Michael Kors/Michael Michael Kors, Michele watches, Miyabi, Movado Bold, Natori, Nike swim, Original Penguin, Panache, Rimowa, Rudsak, Sam Edelman, Shun, Spanx, Staub, Stuart Weitzman, Tempur-Pedic mattresses, The North Face, Theory, Tommy John, Tory Burch, Tumi, UGG®, Vans, Vitamix, Wacoal, Wolford & Wüsthof; PLUS, ONLINE ONLY: kids’ shoes, Allen Edmonds, Birkenstock, Hurley, Johnston & Murphy, Merrell, RVCA & Tommy Bahama. Cannot be combined with any savings pass/coupon, extra discount or credit offer except opening a new Macy’s account. Extra savings % applied to reduced prices. Purchase must be $50 or more, exclusive of tax & delivery fees.
ONE DAY SALE PRICES IN EFFECT 10/21-10/22/2017.
community
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
COMERICA IN THE COMMUNITY
October 18-24, 2017
Page B-6
COLLEAGUE SPOTLIGHT Nicole Wade-Bell
Nicole Wade-Bell began her career at Comerica Bank as a credit specialist in the international department where she prepared loan packages for credit approval. Nineteen years later, Wade-Bell finds herself back in the credit area, in the Business Loan Center, after nearly two decades of learning and growing with Comerica. During her time with the bank, she has effectively progressed as a credit specialist, underwriter, first level officer and now a manager who oversees the position she held at the start of her career.
Detroit Police Officers (from left) Artez Baker, Errol Franklin, Angela Hollis, Kiaronda Mitchell, Sgt. Jermareo McDaniel, James Hearn, Brittany Moss, Chenetta Pasley & Nick Whitaker received Detroit Tigers jerseys before the start of the Detroit Tigers-Minnesota Twins game on Fan Appreciation Weekend. – Photo Credit: Mark Cunningham
Detroit Pal ‘Team Up’ Volunteers Honored At Comerica Park
As a sponsor of Fan Appreciation Weekend at Comerica Park, Comerica Bank honored the top Detroit Team Up police officer volunteers for Detroit PAL on the field before the Detroit Tigers-Minnesota Twins game. Marvin Rushing, Detroit District manager for Comerica Bank, presented Detroit Tigers jerseys for the starting nine players to the Detroit Police Department officers during the pre-game festivities. The Team Up program pairs Detroit police officers with teams of Detroit youth, with the officers mentoring the kids through the season. Rushing also joined with his colleague Kelley Wood, who manages the bank’s Midtown office, in presenting a check symbolizing a $10,000 grant to Detroit PAL to help Detroit PAL provide financial education to PAL athletes.
“My time at Comerica has honestly been a blessing as I’ve learned so much and have been able to work with so many inspirational individuals,” said WadeBell. “Comerica has truly expressed confidence in me since day one, so it’s an honor to have come full circle in the credit area and to be able to instill that confidence in my team.” Wade-Bell has been motivated and excited to grow her career with the bank since she Nicole Wade-Bell started in 1998. She began her career in the international department where she excelled as a credit specialist, importing consumer information and preparing loan documents for Comerica’s internal loan committees. Her hard work earned her several promotions assuming additional responsibilities in her roles as an underwriting associate and underwriting administrator. “I enjoyed working in the international department because of the interaction with my teammates and clients,” Wade-Bell said. “Everyone has a different story. Whether you’ve worked at Comerica for two weeks or 20 years, everyone has something to bring to the table and that creates well-rounded teams.”
The Director of Youth Enrichment for Detroit PAL, Dana Cooper, and Youth Development Officer Marcus Norwood of the Detroit Police Department, accept a $10,000 donation from Comerica Bank to Detroit PAL. Kelley Wood, manager of Comerica Bank’s Midtown banking center, and Detroit District Manager Marvin Rushing presented the check on behalf of Comerica. – Photo
After 16 years in the department, Wade-Bell transferred to the data validation department, a newly established area in loan services that Comerica created in 2014. In her role as a senior data validation analyst, she analyzed and validated data for accuracy prior to inputting the information into Comerica’s loan systems.
Credit: Mark Cunningham
Nicole Wade-Bell lends a hand painting floats with Comerica Cares volunteers at The Parade Company’s float headquarters. Members of the Sistine Chapel Choir and Detroit School of Arts Male Vision Ensemble cheer when they’re featured on the scoreboard at Comerica Park during the Detroit Tigers-Minnesota Twins game. The Detroit Tigers donated tickets for the choirs to attend the game.
Male Vision Ensemble member Eddie Gardner and a member of the Sistine Chapel Choir prepare to dig into a shared cultural experience – a taste of Coney Dog pizza. Looking on is Aurora Battaglia, Comerica Bank’s senior vice president of International Finance-Europe, who was the emcee for the event and served as translator for the choirs.
Detroit School of Arts Students Meet “Pope’s Choir” at Comerica Park
Cultural barriers melted away when the Detroit School of Arts Male Vision Ensemble joined members of the Sistine Chapel Choir for a true Detroit experience – a Detroit Tigers game at Comerica Park. Comerica Bank, which was one of the sponsors of the Sistine Chapel Choir’s first-ever performance in the Motor City, invited
the two choirs to meet each other and experience a traditional baseball game together. Before the game, the two choirs shared a cultural exchange that included both choirs performing for each other, the Vision Male Ensemble teaching the Sistine Chapel Choir members “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” and a nod to the cuisine of both countries as both choirs were introduced to the ballpark’s new Coney Dog pizza.
In December 2016, she made her way back to the credit area where she currently holds the title of credit operations manager of the business loan center. Returning to her roots, Wade-Bell now oversees two teams of credit specialists and is responsible for reviewing prepared loan approval packages and managing employee workload, training and special projects. Wade-Bell holds a bachelor’s degree from the Detroit College of Business. She enjoys her role as a wife, mother to her two sons and sister to three siblings in her close-knit family. “Growing up, my family created and delivered homemade meals a few times each year for the less fortunate, and I remember it always being important to my parents,” Wade-Bell said. “By connecting with community members and understanding the impact good deeds can make, it became important to me as well, so our family continues the same tradition to support the community.” Outside of volunteering with her family, Wade-Bell is an active Comerica Cares volunteer who loves to donate time alongside her coworkers as well. She’s volunteered at drives and events supporting Gleaner’s Community Food Bank, Art N’ Scraps, the American Cancer Society Cattle Baron’s Ball and The Parade Company where she helps assemble and paint floats for the annual parade. She also frequently volunteers in the morning before work, preparing and serving meals at the Capuchin Soup Kitchen. Some of her fondest memories include when her sons joined her during volunteering opportunities. How do you spend your free time?
Supplier Diversity Manager Teresa LeFevre accepted a Best in Class award for excellence in supplier diversity on behalf of Comerica Bank at the Great Lakes Women’s Business Council Conference awards luncheon in late September.
Comerica Cares volunteers joined local students at The Children’s Center for an evening of creativity and expression. The Art Adventures workshops aim to provide art education and appreciation in a safe environment, allowing children to express themselves and build self-confidence.
Comerica Bank Volunteers Encouraging Creativity
Comerica Cares volunteers got out their paint brushes at The Children’s Center this fall as they joined local students for an Art Adventures workshop. The group holds the workshops to encourage creativity and expression among its participants. Comerica Bank supports The Children’s Center throughout the year by participating in different volunteer opportunities. Comerica will make a $100 donation to The Children’s Center for every first down the Detroit Lions make at Ford Field this year.
“Other than spending time with my family and volunteering in the community, I love to bowl with my friends. I bowl in a women’s league once a week. We finished in second place last year, so we’re going for the gold this time. I also love listening to music. It’s not often that you will catch me without my music. To stay fit I’ve taken a recent interest in yoga. I’m looking forward to learning different styles and breathing techniques that promote peace and relaxation.” What are your goals for the future? “My plan is to try to absorb pieces of wisdom and knowledge wherever I can as I continue to learn and grow in a professional and personal way. There are so many areas of Comerica that I don’t necessarily interact with and I’m starting to become more open to the idea of stepping outside of my comfort zone and testing the waters.” For more information on how Comerica colleagues are giving back to our community, visit
www.facebook.com/Comerica.
Taking a break on the picnic table they just finished building as part of the Hometown Huddle 2017 are (clockwise from upper left) Emanuel Mosley of the U.S. Border Patrol Team RWB, Logan McCann, Marvin Rushing and Patricia McCann of Comerica Bank and Jessica Larmony of the Detroit Lions community relations team. Volunteers from across Metro Detroit joined the Detroit Lions and The Mission Continues Detroit 1st Platoon at Central High School to make improvements at the school, including building picnic tables for the concession area.
Comerica colleagues Carmen Oliver, assistant manager of the Romulus banking center, and Michael Cheatham, Community Reinvestment Act market manager for Michigan, met with Alana Thomas (center), the president of Angels Wings, before the start of Super Saturday. Oliver and Cheatham provided financial education to attendees of the free event, which provides workshops on a variety of topics including health, fitness, money management, career development and more. This was the third annual Super Saturday held by Angels Wings, which provides social services to low-income individuals and families in need.
Jaunice Kellar (center right), Community Reinvestment Act market manager for Comerica Bank, was one of the co-chairs for this year’s 47th annual Black United Fund of Michigan, Inc. (BUF) gala. She joined her co-chairs (from left) Gregory Jackson and Denise Lewis in passing the gavel during the evening’s ceremony to Gwen Moore, who accepted it on behalf of 2018 BUF gala co-chair Burt Jordan.
BUSINESS
SECTION C
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October 18-24, 2017
Detroit Parent Collective launched in Detroit Staff Reports
Born out of local mom Krista McClure’s deep desire to bring much-needed resources to support women and men who are parenting children in Detroit, Detroit Parent Collective (DPC) is designed to be inclusive of Detroit’s families, with a special emphasis on parents, children and elders, by providing a co-working space with programs to support membership-based clients. Located on the northwest side of Detroit, directly across the street from Marygrove College on W. McNichols, Detroit Parent Collective provides parents who need a working space with Internet access, on-site drop-in childcare and additional programming around their needs and interests. This includes breastfeeding, wellness, nutrition, yoga, early literacy to name a few of the specialized interests and needs. The space is Detroit’s first permanent co-working space with built-in childcare.
Len Krichko, president and CEO, Amerisure; Greg Crabb, president and CEO, Amerisure; Jennifer DeMello-Johnson, assistant vice president, Amerisure; and Gerald Chiddick, vice president, marketing, Amerisure.
Boys and Girls Club and Amerisure Insurance Companies fulfill a mission By Roz Edward Managing Editor
“It has been said, there never was a time when it was harder to be a child.” – author unknown
Krista McClure Detroit Parent Collective’s Co-Op Preschool offers a Montessori-like curriculum led by a PhD master teacher with support of a talented and skilled parent. In each session, the master teacher leads for two hours while a rotating roster of parent-members support for 30 minutes, offering affordable childcare in a comfortable environment for like-minded Detroit families. Thanks to the generous support of Frank Family, Metro Solutions Inc. and The Skillman Foundation, Detroit Parent Collective completed build-out of its space opening on Monday, Oct. 16. The cost for Detroit Parent Collective membership is $160 per month. DPC is currently raising dollars in an effort to supplement costs for families who express a need of support. People who are interested can donate directly to Detroit Parent Collective’s IndieGoGo Campaign or plan to attend one of their upcoming fundraising events. Detroit Parent Collective is located at 8418 W.McNichols Rd. Parents interested in joining can register online at www.detroitparentcollective.com.
Corporate sponsors are often the lifeline of a non-profit organization, allowing them to continue their invaluable work, expand their range of services and enhance their sphere of impact. Corporate partners have the ability to bring a cadre of resources to the community table including expertise, capacity building and that all-important funding. Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan, which is widely respected in the non-profit space for its continuity of services throughout its 91-year history, is also remarkably adept at attracting forward-thinking philanthropist and enlightened corporate citizens to support the important work of providing a productive environment for the region’s youth, and facilitating development and cultural opportunities for its youthful participants. (Think Denzel Washington, Courtney B. Vance, Magic Johnson, Usher). The celebrated organization announced its partnership with Amerisure Insurance Companies, one of the nation’s leading providers of commercial insurance. The much-heralded alliance of commnity conscious enterprises was the source of big buzz in the world of business and community leaders dedicated to impacting the quality of life for youth in the metro-Detroit area. “This [relationship] evolved with one of Amerisure’s executive management team members, Tom Hoeg, who joined our board in 1998. He was so excited to be involved with the Boys & Girls Clubs, he got the rest of the company involved and they have been sponsors of our programs and our events thanks in part to Tom’s enthusiasm,” explains Len Krichko, Boys
Members of the Boys and Girls Club choir & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan president and CEO. “The support that Amerisure gives us as a company, as a foundation and through individual employees really helps support our programs, and that support directly impacts us financially which pays for programming, staffing, occupancy costs and pretty much everything we do to bring the children into academic success and good citizenry.” Krichko noted that Amerisure was founded in Detroit in 1912 as Michigan Mutual. Since 1926, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan has provided high quality programs for youth, ages 6-18 in grades 1 through 12. Since its founding, it has served over 300,000 youth, 90 percent who graduate high school with 95 percent of those graduates pursuing higher education. Key programs include mentoring, academic success, healthy lifestyles and character and leadership development.
But while philanthropy is a noble undertaking for building goodwill and demonstrating solid corporate citizenship, a company’s brand is paramount to its success. Consequently, it was imperative that Amerisure identify and align itself with a partner whose objectives and goals were a good fit with their own. Similarly, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan — with 10 locations in four counties, and serving 15,000 youth annually — is committed to maintaining its reputation for adhering to the organization’s stated mission: “To inspire and enable all youth to reach their full potential as educated, productive, responsible and caring citizens by providing enriching and challenging programs presented by caring and dedicated professionals.” Widely respected in the non-profit sector for its staying power, B&GCSM is noted for its reputation of steering clear of funding or financing which could dilute its message and programming objectives. In
See PARTNERSHIP Page C-6
NMSDC hosts nation’s largest minority supplier conference at Cobo Michigan Chronicle Reports
The 2017 National Minority Supplier Development Council Conference and Business Opportunity Exchange will be held at the Cobo Center in Detroit, Michigan, Oct. 22-25. This annual event (www.nmsdcconference.com) is the nation’s premier forum on minority supplier development. For four days, more than 6,000 corporate CEOs, procurement executives and supplier diversity professionals from top multinational companies — as well as leading Asian, Black, Hispanic and Native American business owners and international organizations — will convene to re-energize their collective efforts to develop and advocate for more vigorous participation by minority-owned firms in global corporate supply chains. The theme of this year’s NMSDC Conference and Business Opportunity Exchange is “Minority Supplier Development: Fueling Economic Growth.” During the event, more than 20 learning sessions and interactive workshops will engage attendees with details of the latest commercial advances, as well as strategies and techniques to prepare for economic developments in the coming years. Opportunities on Saturday, Oct. 21, include certification preparations, an International Day, committee meetings for Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs), which offer strategic advice on custom-
Earvin “Magic” Johnson, founder and CEO of Magic Johnson Enterprises, is one of the celebrated guest speakers during the keynote luncheon on Monday, Oct. 23. er relations, business management, and establishing collaborative relationships with other companies. On Monday, Oct. 23, there is a one-day Business Opportunity Exchange with more than 700 exhibit booths and opportunities for establishing business-to-business ties.
Networking scenarios abound with 30 workshops and plenary sessions, as well as NMSDC Matchmakers on Tuesday and Wednesday for corporate members and certified MBEs. The conference concludes on Oct.
25 with a black-tie awards banquet and reception honoring NMSDC Corporation of the Year, Corporate Innovation, Corporate Excellence in Access to Capital, and Supplier of the Year, and Regional
See CONFERENCE page C-6
Page C-2 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • October 18-24, 2017
BEST IN BLACK AWARDS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11TH • 7pm
Music Hall
PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS TODAY!! Music Hall Box office or Ticketmaster.com Tickets $35
Best Elected Official
Best High School Principal
Best Fraternity
James Tate Andre Spivey Jewell Jones Brenda Lawrence Kim Worthy Mary Sheffield Coleman A. Young, Jr. Janee Ayers Warren Evans
Lisa Phillips, Cass Tech Zerrick Lake, MacArthur University Academy Cora Christmas, Henry Ford Academy Letoskey Carey, Legacy Charter Academy Jared Davis, Cornerstone Health & Technology High School Candice Brockman, Cornerstone Wyatt Jones , III Loyola Anita Williams, Renaissance Damien Perry, Southeastern High School Deborah Jenkins, Martin Luther King, Jr. High School
Kappa Alpha Psi Omega Psi Phi Alpha Phi Alpha Prince Hall Mason Phi Beta Sigma
Best Attorney Carl Collins Nikkiya Branch Tiffany Mc Evans Kymberly Kinchen Angela Williams Janecki Nance Delicia Coleman Lois Bingham
Best Bar/ Club/ Lounge DUO’s Baker’s Keyboard Lounge PV Lounge TV Lounge Theresa’s Bar Cutters Demi’s Mix Bricktown Westwood Lounge Chops Bar & Grille
Best Restaurant Beans & Cornbread Kuzzo’s City Wings Floods Bar & Grille The Block SavannahBlue Detroit Vegan Soul Central Kitchen Bar Steve’s Soul Food Demi’s Restaurant
Best Marching Band Cass Technical High School Martin Luther King, Jr., High School Levey Middle School Mumford High School Ecorse High School Detroit High School of Performing Arts Oak Park High School Pershing High School River Rouge High School Henry Ford High School
Best High School Cass Technical High School Renaissance High School Mumford High School Henry Ford Academy (Dearborn) Henry Ford High School Communications & Media Arts High School Detroit School of Arts High School Central High School Martin Luther King, Jr. High School
Best High School Coach Thomas Wilcher Corey parker Donshell English Ken Flowers Ty Spence Darnell Hall Robert Lynch Steve Hall Greg Carter
Best Food Franchise Tim Hortons (Jefferson Ave) McDonald’s Jim Thrower McDoanld’s John Cambell
Best School Teacher Erkia Taylor Angela Davis Kenya Harvey Joseph Carter Sharon Allen Vicki Hooks Green Stephanie Griffin Richard James Chandrika Williams Latoya Daniels
Best High School Athlete Brianne Hill Aaron Jackson Aaliyah Jackson Cheyenne McEvans DeAngelo Stanley Marquan Windom Donae Adams Jalen Graham
Best Sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha Delta Sigma Theta Zeta Phi Beta Eastern Star Sigma Gamma Rho
Best Make Up Artist Rashida The Glam Doctor Jeanette Jae Renna Townsend Melinda Johnson Tresa Callahan Ashley Tolliver C. Michelle Chevon Sherman Shaneice Coleman Talya Ashford Sydney Jones
Best Personal Trainer Glen Lott Armond Rashad Brandom Sims Coach Kiwi Troy Waldron D’ Lorian Jordan John Smith Sydney Jones Nisette Gray JC Jones
Best Tattoo Artist Lori Lady T Thomas Jason Phillips Krissy the Butcher Deon Woodward Sebastian Murphy Dewayne Robinson Jonathan Harris Young RU
Best Publicist Malesa Owens McGhee Shawn Blanchard Brittni Brown Latoya Cunnigham Carlton Peeples Pam Perry Maria Stanfield David Rudolph Jocelyn Allen Mario Morrow
Best Wedding Planner/ Event Planner Crystal Marie Events B Posh Events Maria Stanfield Will U Part Event Plannning Chisome Events Double Diamond Events Coralee Luxe Events 12NV Events Jasmine Stallworth Glorious Galas
October 18-24, 2017 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • Page C-3
Best Photographer/ Videographer
Best Retail Business
Best Comedian
Montez Miller Productions Starpointe Photography Full Films Wedding ATEUP Videos Nicole Ashley Allen Studios AJ Photo 313 DSH Photography Monica Morgan Photography My Touch Productions Smug Mug
The Restaurant Fashion Bistro God’s World Nia Simone Boutique Stef-N-Tye Detroit Vs. Everybody Curv Bella Boutique Angel’s Bakes N Cakes Marshell’s Boutique Detroit is the New Black The Shoe Lady
Faygo Red CoCo Melanie Hearn Eastside IVO Coolaide Mike Bonner Joshua Adams Horace B. Sanders Bobo Lamb Chris Powell
Best Caterer
Best Service Business
Durden Catering Soulful Servings Breaking Bread Catering Fantastic Fruit Indulgence Personal Chef Services Touch of Class Catering Tasty Fixins Culinary Associates Full Course Catering
John Tomus Talent Luxurious Essentials Day Spa Universal Special Events Woodhouse Day Spa Skin Bar VII Blackwood Credit Services Dancy Flash Photo Booth Austin Brothers Company Walker Miller Energy Services Patti Dukes Detroit Fitness
Best Community Gospel Choir
Best Car Wash Splash Brothers Auto Spa Scotty B’s Car Wash Jenkins Car Massage House of Wax KJ Hand Car Wash Bo Jacks Mr. C’s Lavish Detail Experts of Detroit Pop’s Detail
Best Hair Salon Salon J Marie Envy Me Salon Artistry Studios The Living Room Hair Lounge Influence Hair Salon Pretty Girls Studio
Best Instagram Eastside IVO Kendall Kyndall Haha Davis Jackpot the Juice Jessica Lundy Deelishis Tatoomanpaige Detroit Rod Ebony Cochran
Best News Anchor
Little Willie’s Hair Salon
Maurielle Lue Huel Perkins Carolyn Clifford Jessica Lundy Andrea Isom Glenda Lewis Evrod Cassimy Tati Amare Kimberly Gill Rhonda Walker
Best Hair Stylist
Best Club Promoter
Joyia Williams Christina Benjamin Jessica Bolden Catina Roberts Gates Big Roy Kia J Yody John Gooden
Maria Stanfield Tiba Robinson Chuck West/ WSC Promotions Mona Lizza’s Lyrics Live It Up Entertainment Randy Ran TWoods Bravo Fame Cipriano Joe Blankenship
Whipped Beauty Bar Flair Hair Studio Slayz Hair Salon
Best Barbershop Final Cutz Faded U Barber Studio Hair Cave In the Cut Marc Roberts Experience Mike T’s Studio Barber Shop Celebrity Cutz West 7 Cut it Out Executive Cuts
Best Barber Kay the Barber Marc Roberts Jarrett Deering Huggy Mike Thomas Kory Barksdale Dale Johnson Dave McKey Aide Hollister Anthony Courtney Gavin
Best Car Dealership Avis Ford Prestige Automotive Merollis Chevrolet Jorgenson Ford
Best Clothing Line Designer Detroit Vs. Everybody Bruce Davis Beau Dillion AYV Stef-N-Ty Detroit Girls Rock Fly Tye Beautiful Stoner District 81 Kick Game Collection Statement by Jlloyd
www.BestInBlackDetroit.com
Best Event DJ DJ Light Show DJ Fingers DJ Mix DJ Main Event DJ Charles hicks DJ Steady Rock DJ Equad DJBJ DJ Invisible The Todd Everett Experience
Larry Callahan & Selected of God Wyoming Mass Concert Choir Detroit Mass Choir Detroit Youth Concert Choir BM&E State Choir J. Bethel & Spoken For Michael Fletcher Chorale The Whitfield Company Dr. E. Laquint Weaver & Hallelujah Singers Highland Park Community Choir
Best Choir Director Albert Strickland, Triumph Church Larry Callahan, Selected of God Michael Fletcher, Second Ebenezer Joyia West, Third New Hope Alvin Waddles, Hartford Memorial David Whitfield, Wings of Love Marcus Holmes, Greater Christ Church Sharon Harden, Del Humphrey, Craig Memorial Church Dr. E. LaQuint Weaver
Best Pastor Solomon Kinloch, Triumph Church Lucell Trammer, Dove Church35 Bishop Charles Ellis, Greater Grace Temple Bishop Edgar Vann, Second Ebenezer Church Dallas Walker, Jr. Wyoming Avenue Church of Christ Robert Bolden, Central Baptist Church Spencer Ellis, Citadel of Praise Bishop James A. Williams, Spirit & Truth Ministries Charles Adams, Hartford Memorial Church Welton Smith, IV, New Life Family Church Wendell Anthony, Fellowship Chapel
Best Organist Alex Goss Craig Mizell Bill Moss, Jr. Derrick Starks Carol Cole Rudolph Stanfield, Greater Emmanuel Christopher Jones Andre Woods, Mt. Zion Baptist Church David Berry, Greater Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance Curtis Pearson, Second Ebenezer
Best Church Triumph Church Greater Grace Temple Central Baptist Church Citadel of Praise Word of Faith New Life Family Church Wyoming Avenue Church of Christ Burning Bush International
Best Local Singer Alise King
Best First Lady
Angela Davis Beth Griffith DMK Brielle Lesley Thornetta Davis Chrissii Key Al Bettis Chiara Clayton
Robin Kinloch, Triumph Church Marcella Trammer, Dove Church Sheila Van, Second Ebenezer Crisette Ellis, Greater Grace Temple Karen Clark Sheard, Greater Emmanuel Bonita Shelby, Burning Bush International Ministries Tracy Ellis, Citadel of Praise Beverly Walker, Wyoming Avenue Church of Christ Lanell Branch, Third New Hope Eunice Chapman, Galilee Baptist Church
LaBrittany Franklin
Best Live Band Alise King & Pure Nastiness Denise Davis & Motor City Sensations 313 The Live Experience Root Vibrations Collective Peace Jukeboxx Hot Sauce The Brandon Williams Experiment Larry Lee Back in the Day band Lady Champagne
#MCBIB17
UAW-FORD’s
Section C-4
October 18-24, 2017
Action packed PSL volleyball is now being served!
Soaring to new heights: Fast growing programs like Cass Tech’s and top level players, including Clemson-bound Solei Thomas of Renaissance High School are just some of the signs that youth volleyball in Detroit is on the rise.
Playoffs promise fast-paced excitement and much more
“Lessons from Legends”
Renaissance while playing for Mitchell relishes the spirited Cass Tech-Renaissance rivalry, but she finds the greatest joy when young ladies across Detroit experience the great things that first brought her to the game. “It’s not just about my girls (at Cass),” said Cox, who promotes youth volleyball and other positive activities for youth year-round as an associate athletic director for Detroit PAL. “When we have competitive games across our entire league it helps everyone.” And competition should be expected during the entire playoffs building to the drama of the semifinal and final matches that will be played at Martin Luther King High School. “It always an electric atmosphere,” Mitchell said. “The gym is wide open and conducive to fans cheering their teams on. Fans will have a ball just watching these matches. Once they come they will see!” And the “Best of Young Detroit” shares Coach Mitchell’s wish that a record number of fans will come out for all of the PSL playoff contests. With this story we have included the final regular season standings along with the playoff schedule. By Scott Talley Special to the Michigan Chronicle Detroit Renaissance volleyball coach Louis Mitchell is a friend to the “Best of Young Detroit.” Therefore, when he invited us to come out to the upcoming PSL volleyball playoffs, we wanted to extend that invitation to our entire community in a special way. “The fans that come out can expect to see quality volleyball,” said Mitchell, a longtime champion for youth volleyball in our community. “They’re going to see power volleyball as it should be played. It’s going to be fast-paced and the matches will be excitement to the viewers.” An example of the high level of volleyball that can be found in Detroit is Renaissance senior Solei Thomas, an outstanding student-athlete who is already committed to attending and playing volleyball at Clemson University. But more than just producing student-athletes that can compete at the college level, the dedicated people in our community that promote the sport do it because volleyball can help shape good people for the bigger game of life. Tips “for making the team” shared by the Detroit Summer Girls Volleyball League right before tryouts were about to begin at schools across the city provided points that will make aspiring and current players winners in ways beyond sports. The tips included: 1. Be Coachable - Coaches like players that listen, do what they are asked/told, try something new and different, and show effort. 2. Be Early - Arrive 15 minutes before the start time to get dressed and offer to help. 3. Be a Good Teammate - Cheer for others; Find something positive to say to someone else; Be positive about your own play; Show respect and good manners. 4. Persist Through Challenges - It’s okay if you don’t know how to do something; keep working on it. 5. Smile and Have Fun - Remember, it’s a game. It’s supposed to be fun, and coaches like girls that figure how to make it fun. The ongoing work to promote volleyball is no doubt being heard in Detroit, especially at a school like Cass Tech, which had about 70 girls come out for the freshman and junior varsity teams alone this year. “Each year the competition gets better because more and more of our middle school girls are playing,” said Cass Tech coach Ramona Cox. “We added a freshman team this season to help our program build for the future.” Cox watched her team fall to Renaissance last year in a thrilling PSL championship match at Western High School, after Renaissance ended a long run of PSL titles won by Cass with a victory in 2015. Cox, who was a former star player at
Enjoy the matches! 2017 Final Regular Season Standings for PSL Volleyball East Cass Tech D.E.P.S.A. M. L. King Pershing East English Denby A.O.A D.I.A Southeastern
West 8-0 7-1 6-2 4-3 3-4 2-5 2-6 1-6 0-8
Renaissance C.M.A. Western Mumford Henry Ford Central Cody Leadership Delta Prep DCP-Northwestern
9-0 8-1 7-2 5-4 5-4 5-4 2-7 2-7 2-7 0-9
PLAYOFF SCHEDULE Thursday, October 19 Quarterfinals At Cass Tech CMA vs. King, 4 p.m. Cass vs. Mumford, 5:30 p.m. At Renaissance D.E.P.S.A. vs. Western, 4 p.m. Renaissance vs. East English Village, 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, October 24 Semifinals At Martin Luther King High School (Matches begin at 5 p.m.) Thursday, October 26 Finals At Martin Luther King High School (Matches begin at 5 p.m., with the third-place game, followed by the championship match.)
Derrick Coleman had the attention of basketball executives and the world when he was the No. 1 overall pick in the 1990 NBA Draft. The “Best of Young Detroit” is excited to launch a new weekly installment that we will call “Lessons From Legends.” Through “Lessons From Legends,” our objective is to share valuable, concise life lessons from legends that have come out of our own community. It is our hope that these lessons will be inspiring for today’s Detroit youth, as well as uplifting for people of all ages. The “Best of Young Detroit” defines a legend not only as someone who has achieved on a high level, but also someone who has used their achievements and accomplishments to help others. From our perspective, those qualities define a true Detroit legend. And this series would not be possible if not for the help of our legendary good friends Mike “Tiger” Price and Tony Austin, who originally interviewed and filmed many of the subjects we will feature through their work with the Detroit Sports Zone and the Detroit High School Hall of Fame. We kick off our series by providing a few words of wisdom from one of the “Best of Young Detroit’s” all-time favorites—Derrick Coleman. Though born in Mobile, Alabama, “DC” began to make his fame in Detroit as one of the nation’s top schoolboy basketball players at Northern High School. Mentored by fine gentlemen like Coach Harry Hairston and Dave Bing, Coleman headed to Syracuse University where he became a household name en route to becoming the first overall selection in the 1990 NBA Draft. As a pro, we remember Coleman for his all-around dynamic play on the court and for being extra generous and committed to Detroit youth. Following are some golden nuggets that Coleman originally shared with “Tiger” Price on two important topics: Derrick Coleman on the advice he gives to youth DC: “For me the game of life is ups and downs, it’s a roller coaster. And how you attack or adjust to adversity is what makes you the person that you are. I tell kids to this day that basketball is just a tool to get you where you want to be in life and you use that tool to the best of your ability. But you have to understand that sports and books go together; you can’t have one without the other…” Derrick Coleman on goals, mission and vision DC: “I still write my goals down, even to this day I keep a pen and a pad next to my bed. I wake up sometimes at 3, 4 in the morning and I have to write something down in case I forget about it. So I think that people should always set goals and right them down, so you won’t forget. And you have to stay focused. Discipline teaches you so much, especially while growing up in the city of Detroit.”
UAW-Ford’s Best of Young Detroit
October 18-24, 2017
Page C-5
Youth Chess
Bright minds on display: Second ‘Thinkers Challenge’ is Oct. 28
2017
Championship games at Ford Field Friday, October 20 Division B Championship Denby (6-1) vs. Central (6-2), 4 p.m.
The “Best of Young Detroit” has learned that our city’s youth chess community never sleeps. On Saturday, Oct. 14, the Detroit Metro Scholastic Chess League observed National Chess Day during an event at Detroit Collegiate Prep at Northwestern High School, and the chess beat will continue
Vying for hardware: Kevin Cobb, a ninth grader at University Prep Science & Math High School, was one of the top players in the Under 1400 Section at the first Thinkers Challenge tournament of the 2017-18. This season’s second Thinkers Challenge will be Saturday, Oct. 28 at University Prep Science & Math High School.
Division A Championship East English Village (8-0) vs. King (7-1), 7 p.m. Source: Detroit Public Schools Community District Athletic Department Office
on Saturday, Oct. 28, when Young Detroit Thinkers host the second “Thinkers Chess Challenge” tournament of the 2017-18 season. The Oct. 28 “Thinkers Chess Challenge” will be held at University Prep Science & Math High School, 2664 Franklin Street in Detroit, next door to Chene Park. The tournament will include competition in the following divisions: K-1, Grades 2-3, Grades 4-7, Grades 8-12, Under 600 Section, Under 900 Section, Under 1100 Section, Under 1400 Section and Open Section. Young Detroit Thinkers, a local nonprofit organization whose goal is to create future societal leaders through year-round programming centering on the classic game of chess, is the presenter of the 2017-18 “Thinkers Chess Challenge.” Registration for the Oct. 28 tournament should be done online by clicking the tournament link at www.weplaychess.net/DetroitThinkers. Tournament registration is $20 prior to 9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 26 and $25 until 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27. Please note that registration is not available at the tournament. Good luck to all players!
Following are some of the top local high school football performances during Week 8 games: Taivyon Buck, Denby, threw two TD passes in a 38-0 PSL Semifinal B victory against Delta Prep. Denby Defense, the Tars’ defense stepped up in a big way pitching a shutout against Delta Prep. Dequan Finn, King, in a game dominated by the defenses, the junior QB was still able to successfully guide the Crusaders’ offense, including scoring on a 5-yard run, to stake King to a two-touchdown lead in a 17-7 PSL Semifinal A victory against Cass Tech.
‘Best of Young Detroit’ Flashback
Kalon Gervin, Cass, the All-American DB turned defense to offense by scoring on a 39-yard interception return against King.
Once upon a time, Money and Simpson represented the PSL and Pistons
Brandon Green, Central, scored on a six-yard run in a 40-25 PSL Semifinal B victory against Mumford.
In mere hours after this edition of the Michigan Chronicle hits newsstands, an historic moment will occur downtown. On Wednesday, October 18, regular season NBA basketball returns to the city of Detroit when the Pistons host the Charlotte Hornets at the new Little Caesars Arena. The last time the Pistons truly called Detroit home for a full regular season was the 1977-78 campaign. The squad representing the Pistons that year was a long way from being a champion, but it was still a very special team because the players wore “Detroit” on their chest, and the season’s roster included, not one, but two players from the fabled Detroit PSL basketball league—Eric Money and Ralph Simpson. A big favorite among the Cobo Arena fans, Money was a cat-quick penetrating guard with outstanding ball-handling skills and the ability to score consistently. Money developed his skills on Detroit’s east side at Kettering High School before heading off to the University of Arizona, where he played for the Detroit Northwestern High School alum and coaching legend Fred Snowden. Under Snowden’s watchful eye, and playing with his former Kettering teammate Coniel Norman, Money averaged nearly 19 points in his two seasons as a Wildcat before being drafted by the Pistons in 1974 as the 33rd overall pick. In five of his six NBA seasons, Money averaged double digits in scoring, including a career-high 18.6 points, to go with 4.7 assists a game during the Cobo finale 1977-78 season. Ralph Simpson Ralph Simpson’s basketball pedigree was equally impressive. As a prep standout at Pershing, Simpson teamed with Hall of Famer Spencer Haywood and a host of other talented all-around athletes to produce what may have been the greatest high school basketball team in Michigan’s history. Simpson capped his
junior season at Pershing by scoring a record 43 points in a 90-66 state championship victory over Flint Central in 1967. After Pershing, Simpson took his considerable athletic talents to the campus of Michigan State University. In Simpson’s day, college freshman were not eligible to play on the varsity team, but as a sophomore, he left no doubt that he was one of the very best players in the Big Ten and the nation, as he averaged a dazzling 29 points a game. During that sophomore campaign, Simpson was literally a one man wrecking crew on a mediocre MSU squad (9-15, 5-9 Big Ten). Seven times he scored 35 points or more—with a season high 42—and he also averaged 10 rebounds, including one 20-rebound game. The stellar season earned Simpson All American and first team All Big Ten honors. The next stop for Simpson was professional basketball and he signed with the ABA’s Denver Rockets (later the Denver Nuggets). The ABA played in the shadow of the more established NBA, but Simpson was a bright light in Denver where he made five consecutive ABA AllStar teams as one of the bigger guards (6-feet5, 200 pounds) in the league. When the ABA and NBA merged, Simpson was traded to the Pistons in 1976. Simpson, the father of Grammy Award-winning singer India.Arie, averaged 11 points in his first season with the Pistons and then after playing 32 games for Detroit to begin the 197778 campaign, he finished the season as a member of the Denver Nuggets. Will we see a day when former PSL standouts once again play for the Pistons? Stay tuned for the next chapter of “Deeetroit Basketball!” now playing downtown at Little Caesars Arena.
Your Feedback Matters The “Best of Young Detroit” welcomes feedback from our community. Please submit story suggestions and other comments to Scott Talley at stalleyassociates@gmail.com or 313-590-3686.
King Defense, the Crusaders intercepted one pass, recovered three fumbles, and held Cass Tech without an offensive score in the PSL semifinal played at Detroit Collegiate Prep at Northwestern. Cerell Lewis, Mumford, scored on a 60yard run against Central. Jaeveyon Morton, King, set the tone for the Crusaders’ PSL semifinal victory against Cass Tech by returning the opening kickoff 93 yards for a TD. Brandon Stevenson, Denby, registered an interception, fumble recovery and scored on a 23-yard reception in the PSL semifinal against Delta Prep played at Detroit Collegiate Prep at Northwestern. Desmond Walker, Central, intercepted a pass against Mumford. Armani White, Denby, rushed for two TDs against Delta Prep.
Marquise Haynes, Mumford, scored on a 38-yard reception against Central. El Julian Jordan, the prolific passing senior QB showed his versatility by scoring on three short TD runs against Mumford in the PSL semifinal at Detroit Collegiate Prep at Northwestern.
Football players with Detroit roots continue to impress Following are recent standouts on the college and professional levels: Joseph Barksdale, Los Angeles Chargers/Louisiana State University/ Cass Tech, one of the anchors on the Chargers’ offensive line, Barksdale played a big part in helping Melvin Gordon gain 83 yards on the Joseph Barksdale ground, while also contributing to Phillip Rivers’ 268-yard passing performance, in a 17-16 victory over the Oakland Raiders on Oct. 15. Parris Bennett, Syracuse University/ University of Detroit Jesuit, the senior LB registered nine tackles and one sack, as the Orangemen upset the Clemson Tigers (the defending national champions), 27-24 on Oct. 13. Through seven games, Bennett Parris Bennett leads Syracuse with 65 tackles, including 6.5 for loss. He was one of three Syracuse players to receive Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Week honors for stellar play against Clemson.
William Gholston
William Gholston, Tampa Bay Buccaneers/Michigan State University/ Southeastern High School, through games of Oct. 15, the starting defensive end had registered 17 tackles, including an eight-tackle performance on Sept. 24 against Minnesota.
Lavert Hill, University of Michigan/Martin Luther King High School, the sophomore CB continues to raise his level of play, including intercepting a fourth-quarter pass in a 27-20 overtime victory over Indiana on Oct. 14. Hill also registered two tackles, Lavert Hill including a tackle resulting in lost yardage, and was named the team’s Defensive Player of the Game for his outstanding performance.
business
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
October 18-24, 2017
Conference
People On The MOVE Terri Weems was recently promoted to CFO at Detroit Employment Solutions Corp (DESC). As CFO, which is a newly created position at DESC, Weems will be responsible for overseeing project management and all fiscal operations. In her new role, Weems, who is a certified public accountant, will focus on DESC finance and internal operations. According to the DESC, Weems also will help lead DESC’s metric-driven accountability and data-driven decision-making approach, including providing the financial and operational information necessary to develop actionable recommendations. Weems also will lead DESCs process optimization and continuous improvement efforts.
John Rhea, a native Detroiter, was recently named President of the Corporate Finance and Capital Markets division at Siebert Cisneros Shank & Co., LLC (SCSCO). The company is one of the nation’s most prominent minorityand woman-owned investment banks. Rhea will lead the corporate banking, sales and trading teams and continue the expansion of SCSCO’s corporate finance presence. Rhea, 51, will be based out of Siebert Shank’s New York headquarters, and will spend some time in Detroit, where Siebert Shank’s CEO, Suzanne Shank, is based. Rhea also will continue with his investments in the Detroit area through RHEAL Capital Management LLC, the multifamily and mixed-use real estate investment management company he founded.
Lysa Davis, CEO of Compliance and Community Consultants has been elected Chair of the Michigan Community Resources (MCR) Board of Directors. MCR is dedicated to supporting and empowering nonprofit community organizations in Michigan that serve low-income individuals and communities. In her new role, Davis will be responsible for leading the vision and mission of the organization, alongside the organization’s executive officers and board of directors. According to Shamyle Dobbs, Michigan Community Resources CEO, the Board unanimously supported Davis thanks to her strong leadership, passion and dedication to the organization’s mission.
Page C6
From page C-1
Council of the Year. Joe Hinrichs, NMSDC chair, who also is president, Global Operations, at Ford Motor Company, explained, “The 2017 Conference and Business Opportunity Exchange will focus on propelling economic growth for corporate executives and minority business owners to take advantage of opportunities for commerce presented in the future. As the U.S. nears the point where minorities comprise greater than 50 percent of the population, the need for strong minority-owned businesses in national and global supply chains will be vital to the health of our growing economy.”
Partnership From page C-1
short, they won’t change course to chase dollars. Although Greg Crabb, president and chief executive officer of Amerisure, is relatively new to the B&GCSM board, he enthusiastically embraces the principles of the organization and has committed time and money to bringing B&GCSM’s objectives to fruition. “At the highest level, we have a charitable foundation here in Michigan and our focus is on impacting the lives of the folks in the communities where we do business,” said Crabb. “There is no better example in our opinion than Boys & Girls Clubs and what they do to impact the lives of youth. The positive outcomes that Boys & Girls Clubs is able to demonstrate is very appealing and aligns perfectly with our charitable foundation’s mission.” Crabb explained that Amerisure’s community commitment and organizational support initiatives are based on a core set of values, one of which is being an integral part of the community. Amerisure’s charitable foundation support includes a key caveat, for a non-profit organization to receive support they are required to engage and personally involve Amerisure employees. Amerisure’s other charitable activities include Junior Achievement, Special Olympics, COTS, Crossroads and Life Remodeled. Jennifer DeMello-Johnson, Amerisure assistant vice president, is a B&GCSM board member as well as an active member of the B&GCSM Women’s Association. DeMello-Johnson, who along with her other organizational responsibilities, volunteers her time to conduct the Boys & Girls Clubs choir which she established for select events. A classically trained musician with a degree in choral conducting, she passionately encourages commercial clients to participate in charitable events through networking, face-to-face exposure and lending
The economic impact generated by the conference itself is considerable: $7.5 million total, including an estimate of more than $1 million in state and local taxes and 1,400+ jobs supported. A survey of last year’s conference attendees show that 73 percent of the more than 6,000 attendees spent more than $1,000 each in the conference city.
their talents to support B&GCSM activities and programs. “We host events in which all of our employees can get more involved in supporting Boys & Girls Clubs. One of those events is the Friendship Club Breakfast — held at the DAC — that we host every year. It not only gives all Amerisure employees an opportunity to get involved, it allows us to invite our local partner agencies to be a part of the experience as well,” she explained. Gerald Chiddick, Amerisure’s vice president of marketing, has a dual role in the partnership between B&GCSM and Amerisure. In addition to helping drive charitable foundation programs and facilitating engagement for agency customer’s partners and employees, he and members of his team engage in the delivery of marketing support for recipient organizations. “We lend our talents as well as our resources to the activities of the organization,” said Chiddick. “We can provide marketing support to enable some of the things that they’re doing. We roll up our sleeves and get really involved in those activities with them. That’s part of our belief in the relationship and support for the overall organization and the value we hold them in. It’s an immersion experience,” he said.
Conference co-chairs are Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Ford, General Motors, Toyota, ACRO Service Corporation, Ampcus and Kyyba. There are more than 60 corporate and MBE sponsors. DiversityComm is the NMSDC’s media partner for the event. For a complete list of companies supporting the conference, visit www.nmsdcconference.com and scroll to the bottom. The NMSDC advances business opportunities for certified minority business enterprises (MBEs) and connects them to corporate members. One of the country’s leading corporate membership organizations, NMSDC was chartered in 1972 to provide increased procurement and business opportunities for minority businesses of all sizes. The NMSDC Network includes a National Office in New York and 23 affiliate regional councils across the country. The network also includes five international partner organizations located in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, China and South Africa. To meet the growing need for supplier diversity, NMSDC matches its nearly 12,000 certified minority-owned businesses to our network of more than 1,400 corporate members who wish to purchase their products, services and solutions. NMSDC, a unique and specialized player in the field of minority business enterprise, is proud of its unwavering commitment to advance Asian, Black, Hispanic and Native American suppliers in a globalized corporate supply chain. For more information, visit www. NMSDC.org.
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October 18-24, 2017
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ank of America partnered with Khan Academy to create a program to help people strengthen their financial future. Called Better Money Habits, the program addresses 10 of the major financial destinations in everyday life, including credit, debt, buying a home, retiring and financial privacy. The information is on the BetterMoneyHabits.com website, and the information is plentiful, interactive and very easy to understand. “There is a financial knowledge deficit in our community,” said Cathy Nedd, associate publisher and COO of the Michigan Chronicle. “Despite this deficit, we believe most people have a strong desire to improve their level of financial capability. We think through our partnership with bank of America, many people can benefit from the advice and answers to everyday financial questions.”
Enter the 90-Day Financial Fitness challenge. The Michigan Chronicle has partnered with Bank of America to help increase
financial knowledge in our community. We are inviting everyone who has a financial question to join us for a 90-Day Financial Fitness challenge.
Enter the 90-Day Financial Fitness challenge. The Michigan Chronicle has partnered with Bank of America to help increase financial knowledge in our community. We are inviting everyone who has a financial question to join us for a 90-Day Financial Fitness challenge. We want you to sign up for the challenge and let us know what financial areas are of most concern to you. Each week, we will provide information on one of the habits, so please keep reading during the 90-Day Challenge. “I think that of our readers have some sense of where they are financially and where they want to be and then of course, there are some who have no idea where to start,” said Hiram Jackson, publisher of the Michigan Chronicle. “Better Money Habits provides information at both ends of the spectrum. Regardless of where you are on your financial path, there is still room for more information. Better Money Habits shares a wealth of information in an easy to access and navigate format.” As with any challenge, it’s easy to get discouraged, but the habits that are now in place in our lives have to be replaced. So, we also are offering incentives to keep you inspired. Sign up now for more information and for prizes at MichiganChroncle.com and join us for the 90-Day Financial Fitness challenge. The 90-day Financial Fitness challenge will address several areas of your life. It’s 90 days of habits, 90 days of information and 90 days to a better, stronger, smarter you. Join us for the 90day Better Money Habits challenge today and lose that financial baggage.
Presents the
Michigan Chronicle
90 Day Financial Fitness Challenge, Featuring Better Money Habits™
Start Building Your Financial Know How
Join the Michigan Chronicle and Bank of America in taking this 90 Day Financial Fitness Challenge featuring Better Money Habits ™. From debt to credit, buying a house to retirement, each week, we will challenge you to take a close look at your finances. The end game … better money habits and a healthy financial future for you and your family.
Get a head start. Visit…
bettermoneyhabits.com
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• THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE •
Sande Rose, Dr. Iris Taylor and Min. Michael Fletcher
October 18-24, 2017
The GMWA Detroit Chapter Choir
GMWA Detroit Chapter celebrates 5O-year anniversary
The Gospel Music Workshop of America Detroit Chapter was created and organized in 1967 by the legendary Rev. James Cleveland. Musicians gathered from across the United States to explore, develop and present gospel music at its finest. The famed, prolific workshop changed the world of gospel music in a dynamic way and is now celebrating 50 years of existence.
Thomas Whitfield and the Craig Brothers. In time, he became the assistant to Min. Jimmy Dowell of St. James Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Charles Nicks. Min. Fletcher believes that joining the GMWA Detroit Chapter has made a great impact on his musical career, affording him the chance to work with the best in gospel music. The GMWA Detroit Chapter was organized to help bridge the gap between pastors, musicians and singers at all churches, coming together to strengthen the music they produced.
Detroit, noted for its many contributions to the world of gospel music, was selected for the first board meeting, held in March of 1968, convening at the historic King Solomon Church. Local affiliate chapters soon followed. Officials of this newly formed chapter established a solid foundation for others to follow that is consistent with the national organization’s motto, “GMWA: Where Everybody Is Somebody.” Soon, musicians, directors, singers and lovers of gospel music joined and participated with the GMWA Detroit Chapter from all corners of the country. For over five decades, the GMWA Detroit Chapter has continued to thrive in the spirit of excellence. maintaining a reputation as one of the strongest chapters. The Detroit Chapter has had nine local leaders and from its membership has held 12 national leadership positions. An expanded and recommitted GMWA Detroit Mass Choir released three recordings, “Detroit Remembers, Volume 1” (2001), “Detroit Remembers, Volume 2 (2006) and “Tribute to the King.” These releases were produced to serve as lasting tributes to the music legacies of several gospel music pioneers with roots in the Detroit Chapter Minister Michael Fletcher, a longtime member of the GMWA Detroit Chapter and co-chairman and minister of music,
With his own choir, the Michael Fletcher Chorale, Min. Fletcher has remained faithful over the years and today continues to serve in the capacity of minister of music. He and Pastor Rudolph Stanfield, Jr., also highly respected and accomplished in gospel music, have worked side-by-side for more than 40 years.
Min. A. Jeffrey LaValley and Pastor Rudolph Stanfield, Jr.
At the tender age of 15, Pastor Stanfield was asked to play for Min. James Marks and the Voices of Heaven, not knowing that this would be the beginning of something extraordinary. Being a part of the GMWA Detroit Chapter would be the start of an outstanding musical career. The legendary Rev. James Cleveland heard this outstanding talent and brought him on for special GMWA Detroit Chapter projects as well as for the national chapter.
had his first experience with the GMWA in 1974. At an early age, he took a group of young kids to the convention, the Second Canaan Angelic Voices, of Second Canaan Baptist Church where Forty years later, Pastor Stanfield his directing and musical skills were was asked to become a board member displayed. From that experience, he was under the leadership of Bishop Andre recognized by Rev. James Cleveland on Woods. He also was asked to write for a national level. Throughout the years,B:10”GMWA live recording sessions. Pastor Min. Fletcher worked with Rev. Cleve-T:10”Stanfield reached out to two amazing land and other gospel legends such as producers and songwriters, Min. A. JefS:10”frey LaValley and Min. Herman Harris.
These two gospel greats joined the production team along with Sande Rose, co-chairwoman and administrator, Michael Fletcher, Stanley Waldon, Dr. Iris Taylor and Pastor Stanfield, Jr. in the process of selecting the songs for the 50th anniversary live recording celebration. Min. A. Jeffery LaValley, minister of music of New Jerusalem Baptist Church, is recognized in the gospel music industry as a producer, songwriter and composer. He hails from Flint, Michigan and was chosen by Pastor Stanfield to collaborate in this project. He has also worked with such notables as Keith Pringle and the New Jerusalem Baptist Church in Flint, MIchigan, among others. Everyone worked hard to make those recording sessions special and memorable. Under the general leadership of Iris A. Taylor, PH. D in partnership with its Board of Directors, the GMWA Detroit Chapter will celebrate 50 years with a live recording session on Oct. 21 at Second Ebenezer Church, 14601 Dequindre St. in Detroit. The session begins at 5:30 pm. Bishop Edgar L. Vann II will serves as host pastor. The GMWA Workshop Choir will honor some of Detroit’s legends and pioneers with a musical tribute, including Rev. James Cleveland, Dr. Mattie Moss Clark, Thomas A. Whitfield, Lucille Lemon, the Craig Brothers, Rev. Donald Vails, Rev. Charles Nicks and Brother Jimmy Dowell. All Detroiters are invited to be a part of this history-making, once-in-a-lifetime event. For more information, visit gmwadetroit.org.
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Reflections By Steve Holsey
Harsh but on target One would have to have been living under a rock to have not at least heard about Eminem’s scathing rap attack against Donald Trump, who repeatedly brings disgrace and embarrassment to the office of the presidency and to the country. How anyone of sound mind could support him is the mystery to end all mysteries.
Eminem Well, Eminem was on fed up mode and cut loose, with no restrictions, at the 2017 BET Awards. Now, of course, there is the issue of Trump retaliating, and he is famous for seeking revenge. Look what happened to Kathy Griffin. But because Eminem comes from a much rougher place and is surrounded by rough friends, Trump might make the wise decision to tread lightly. Eminem went so far as to label Trump a “kamikaze” who “will probably cause a nuclear holocaust,” and concluded, “We love our country, but we hate Trump.” (Actually, there was a word before “hate” that starts with an “f”.) TONI BRAXTON, who recently turned 50, was showcased in Billboard magazine in a feature titled “Toni Braxton’s 25 Best Songs” by Da’Shan Smith. Lists such as this are subjective, a matter of Toni Braxton opinion.
as seen through the eyes of many beholders Powerful DIA exhibit offers artist views of the Civil Rights Movement
But no one could take issue with the inclusion of fantastic songs like “Un-Break My Heart,” “Love Shoulda Brought You Home” and “Breathe Again.” I would have included “How Could an Angel Break My Heart” from the “Secrets” album. But how in the world could the writer have left off “You’re Makin’ Me High,” also from that album?
By Keith A. Owens Senior Editor
The timing could not possibly have been better. Nor could the location. “Art of Rebellion: Black Art of the Civil Rights Movement” is a must-see exhibit currently showing at the Detroit Institute of Arts scheduled to come to an end on Sunday, Oct. 22. Valerie Mercer, curator for the General Motors Center for African American Art, said there have been more than a few instances where visitors to the relatively small exhibit actually broke down and cried after the experience. That would explain the small box of tissue available near the end of the exhibit next to the wall full of comment cards.
Speaking of Toni Braxton, she delivered one of “coldest” lines of all time in “I Wish,” a cut from the album she made with Babyface, “Love, Marriage & Divorce.” In dealing with an unfaithful, hurt-causing man, Braxton says, “I hope she gives you a disease. But not enough to make you die, but only make you cry like you did me.” THE EMMY-winning Tracee Ellis Ross was on Stephen Colbert’s late-night TV show last week and got a laugh when the host asked if she had ever raided Tracee Ellis Ross her mother Diana Ross’ closet. After noting Mom’s good taste, Tracee said, “I don’t call it raiding. I call it shopping.”
Diana Ross and the Supremes Which brings to mind the interesting history of “Someday We’ll Be Together” by Diana Ross and the Supremes, one of the finest songs Motown ever released. The original version (1961), a very mild success, was by the duo Johnny & Jackey, written by Johnny Bristol. Jackey Beavers and Harvey Fuqua.
See Reflections Page D-2
“The exhibition definitely touches people,” she said. “One of the things I can share with you is that, probably a few weeks ago, our security officers, a couple of them were telling me that there are people who cried by the end of the show. So they started off asking me, ‘Have you seen the
box of tissues?’ And I said, ‘Oh yeah, I saw the tissues and I was wondering if somebody forgot their tissues. But it really it is because the officers stationed in the exhibition said they really needed tissues. And so the person who puts them out, one of my
See REBELLION Page D-5
Drive: Detroit’s only table tennis social club
By Alisha Dixon
Diallo Smith and Roderick Hardamon, both Detroit natives and owners of Drive, Detroit’s only table tennis social club, hosted a Grand Opening 2.0 celebration last week to celebrate the club’s reopening after extensive renovation. The Drive 2.0 experience includes full size Olympic quality ping pong tables, 50-inch flat screen TVs, lounge seating and private suites, a full service bar featuring craft beer and handcrafted cocktails, and a kitchen offering a wide variety of food options. “There’s nothing like it in the city. We love to have fun and we like to see people having fun. Ping pong is one of the things that everybody can do and when you’re doing it, you’re having fun and you’re talking a little trash while having an enjoyable experience,” said Smith. Hardamon added, “Why ta-
ble tennis? It’s cool! Think about when you were a kid. You were in someone’s basement, playing table tennis and your heart goes back to that fun and youthful time you had. Fast-forward to today, it’s great
for social interaction. It’s a place where you can interact with colleagues, friends, at birthdays and corporate events and play table tennis in a very social and warm environment and you can grab a drink while
you’re doing it.” Located at 645 Griswold in the Penobscot Building, Drive takes the table tennis experience of your childhood and
See THE DRIVE 2.0 Page D-5
Page D-2 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • October 18-24, 2017
Reflections
37
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From page D-1
After Bristol and Fuqua were brought to Motown, along with Jr. Walker and his group, there was to be a remake of “Someday We’ll Be Together” by, as unlikely as it sounds, Jr. Walker & the All Stars. But Berry Gordy said the song would be perfect for Diana Ross as her first single as a solo artist, but then decided to release it as the last “Diana Ross and the Supremes” record even though the background vocals are by sisters Julia and Maxine Waters, not Mary Wilson and Cindy Birdsong.
#BeScene Featured Event:
Seasons of Love Detroit benefit concert brightens hearts ahead of holiday season Rashida Johnson Music presents the third annual Seasons of Love Detroit Sweetest Day benefit concert on Sunday, Oct. 22, at the Charles H. Wright Museum. The show will serve to raise funds and awareness for the philanthropy work of the Austin Brothers Company led by young entrepreneurs and Michigan Chronicle’s Best in Black 2017 finalists, Nathaniel and Andrew Austin. The Austin Brothers Company assists in providing holiday gift baskets for the families of the Henry Ford Hospital neonatal unit. This year’s show features national neo-soul recording artist Leon Timbo, singer/trumpeter Sam Trump, local singer/songwriter sensation Al Bettis; Kresge Arts Detroit Fellow and the face of United Way’s “Community Anthem” campaign poet and teacher Mahogany Jones, along with some of the best music and spoken word talent in Metro Detroit. Singer/songwriter and event founder Rashida Johnson believes that it is essential for the arts community to give back to Detroit by sharing the gift of love. “Instead of paying $50 to attend a concert, we offer free and nominal fee tickets to the community so that concert-goers can donate the equivalent of a standard concert ticket to the highlighted Metro Detroit charity. Music should heal and help people just as much as it entertains and prospers the industry," she said. Doors open at 4:00 pm. For tickets and the full line-up, please visit www.seasonsoflovedetroit.com.
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HERE IS a partial listing of upcoming concerts: Doug E. Fresh, the Sugarhill Gang, Grandmaster’s Furious Five’s Melle Mel and Scorpio, Sound Board at MotorCity Casino, Oct. 26; Janet Jackson, Little Caesars Arena, Oct. 29; Irma Thomas, Five Blind Boys of Alabama, Preservation Hall Jazz Band Legacy Quintet, Music Hall, Oct. 29; the Weeknd, Gucci Mane, Little Caesars Arena, Nov. 1. Keith Sweat, Sound Board at Doug E. Fresh MotorCity Casino, Nov. 5; Lady Gaga, Little Caesars Arena, Nov. 7; Kirk Franklin, Ledisi, Fox Theatre, Nov. 10; Jerry Seinfeld, Fox Theatre, Nov. 11; 90’s Freestyle Concert, Sound Board at MotorCity Casino, Nov. 12; JAY-Z, Little Caesars Arena, Nov. 18; War, Zapp, S.O.S. Band, Masonic Temple, Nov. 25; Musiq Soulchild, Sound Board at MotorCity Casino, Nov. 30; Will Downing, Avery Sunshine, Sound Board at MotorCity Casino, Dec. 10. P. DIDDY has said something about buying the NFL. I guess when you have his kind of money you can entertain such thoughts. Lionel Richie has acquired the rights to make a biopic on the legendary Curtis Mayfield by way of his company, RichLion Productions. Mayfield’s family is supportive. Duke Fakir has a son who is a (clean) rapper. He calls himself Logic. Andre Cymone’s father, Andre Anderson, at one time played in a jazz band with Prince’s father, John Lewis Nelson. Cymone (whose last name is Anderson) had been best friends with Prince since 7th grade. Cymone was so street rough that Prince’s mother didn’t want her son around him, but Prince nevertheless ended up living with the Andersons for five or six years. BETCHA DIDN’T KNOW...that there is a gay rap artist who calls himself, believe it or not, “Cakes Da Killa.” The name doesn’t fit the orientation (and no judgment call here on the orientation). MEMORIES: “Selfish One” (Jackie Ross), “Heaven Must Have Sent You” (the Elgins), “Out of Sight” (James Brown), “I Wanna Be Where You Are” (Michael Jackson), “With Open Arms” (Rachelle Ferrell), “Overjoyed” (Stevie Wonder), “Feel Like Making Love” (Roberta Flack). BLESSINGS to Lydia Nance Adams, Princess Hayes, Jasmen Holt, Clifford Russell, Andrew Humphrey, Leonia Lloyd and Kelvyn Ventour. WORDS OF THE WEEK, from Stedman Graham: “Freedom is not staying in the box, not doing what other people want you to do.” Let the music play! Steve Holsey can be reached at svh517@aol.com, navets517@gmail.com and PO Box 02843, Detroit, MI 48202.
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October 18-24, 2017 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • Page D-3
Bombay Sapphire Artisan Series @N’Namdi Gallery — Photos: Montez Miller —
Classified ANNOUNCEMENTS
ANNOUNCEMENTS
REQUEST FOR BIDS
REQUEST FOR QUOTE
City of Highland Park is soliciting bids for Emergency Sidewalk Removal and Replacement. Specifications can be accessed at www.bidnetdirect.com or by contacting the Department of Community & Economic Development at Yrobinson@HighlandParkMI.gov.
The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is soliciting RFQ’s for Remanufactured Air Compressors, Control No. 18-2553. RFQ packages will be available October 18, 2017, at www.mitn.info.
October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month
RFQ’s are due Wednesday, November 29, 2017 by 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
Sealed bids due to the Office of the Clerk by Friday, October 27th @ 11 am.
PROPOSAL
REQUEST FOR BIDS
The River Rouge Housing Commission is accepting Proposal’s for its legal services.
The City of Highland Park is requesting proposals from qualified consultants to develop and implement a Community Visioning plan for the redevelopment of the former Highland Park High School Site, located at 15000 Woodward Ave. Specifications can be accessed at www.bidnetdirect.com or by contacting the Department of Community & Economic Development at Yrobinson@HighlandParkMI.gov.
RFP information packages can be obtained at the office of the Commission located at 180 Visger Rd., River Rouge, MI 48218 or at our website – www.riverrougehousingcommission.com.
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Proposals are due no later than Wednesday, November 1, 2017 by 3:00pm.
Sealed bids due to the Office of the Clerk by Friday, November 3rd @11 am.
WWW.MICHIGANCHRONICLE.COM
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL The Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan (RTA) has issued Request for Proposal #2017-003: Legislative Services. E
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PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED
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Electronic copies of proposals must be submitted via the RTA’s procurement website at www.bidnetdirect.com/mitn by 4:00 PM EST on Friday, November 10, 2017.
October 18-24, 2017
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
Best In Black G TIN20th VO FINAL day, September
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Baobab Fare Detroit Comerica Hatch Contest
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Starts Wednes , October 16th Ends Sunday
kdetroit.com www.bestinblac
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michiganchronic Volume 81
– Number 2
Farmington Hills eated student mistr by teachers for knowing his rights By Keith A.
Senior Design Release Engineer
Owens
Senior Editor
The RFP with specific instructions is available on the RTA’s procurement website at www.bidnetdirect.com/mitn. Prospective vendors will be required to register on the website at no cost. The RTA adheres to all DBE guidelines.
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See MISTREAT
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL The Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan (RTA) has issued Request for Proposal #2017-004: External Communications Consulting Services.
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Electronic copies of proposals must be submitted via the RTA’s procurement website at www.bidnetdirect.com/mitn by 4:00 PM EST on Friday, November 10, 2017.
MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
The RFP with specific instructions is available on the RTA’s procurement website at www.bidnetdirect.com/mitn. Prospective vendors will be required to register on the website at no cost. The RTA adheres to all DBE guidelines.
Published Every Wendnesday
ANNOUNCEMENTS
MIKE DUGGAN MAYOR, CITY OF DETROIT ADVERTISEMENT REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS/PROPOSALS TO SELECT A DESIGN/BUILD CONTRACTOR FOR THE RENOVATION AND IMPROVEMENTS TO CITIZEN TAX HELP CENTER FOR THE CITY OF DETROIT OFFICE OF THE TREASURY (DBA #27-000) Written responses are requested from interested respondents (“Respondents”) to this request for qualifications and proposals. The purpose of this request is to procure a design/build contractor for the design, renovations, and improvements to 2 Woodward Avenue, Suite 136, Detroit, MI 48226, as more fully described in the Request for Qualification/Proposals (RFP/Q). The DBA will receive the responses, as herein set forth, in the offices of the Detroit Building Authority, Attention Donna Rice, 1301 Third Street, Suite 328, Detroit, Michigan 48226. Qualifications shall be endorsed “OT: Citizen Tax Help Center Design/Build Services” and submitted not later than 1:00 P.M., Detroit time, on Wednesday November 1, 2017, and will subsequently be evaluated to select a candidate for a design/build construction services agreement. A processing fee of twenty-five dollars ($25.00), cashier’s check or money order, payable to the Detroit Building Authority must be paid prior to the submission of qualifications. A mandatory pre-submittal meeting and site tour will take place at the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, 2 Woodward Avenue, Suite 136 Detroit, MI 48226, beginning at 10:30 A.M., Detroit time, on Monday, October 23, 2017. The Respondent may only submit one response to this Request for Qualifications/Proposals. Participation in more than one submittal team will result in rejection of all responses by that Respondent. Respondents submitting qualifications may be required to make an oral presentation(s) to designated City representatives. The issuing office, if required, will schedule such oral presentation(s). The Respondent must pay any travel costs incurred for such presentations. The Respondent must agree to comply with the requirements of the City of Detroit’s Ordinances and Human Rights Department. Copies of this Request for Qualifications/Proposals may be obtained in person from Hernandez Blueprinting Services, 1798 Wabash Road, Detroit, MI, 48216, phone (313) 962-2900. No response to this Request for Qualifications/Proposals may be withdrawn for at least 120 days after the actual opening of the qualifications/proposals. The DBA reserves the right to waive any irregularity in any qualifications/proposals, and to reject any or all qualifications/proposals, should it be deemed in its best interest. If additional information is needed regarding this RFQ, please contact Donna Rice of the DBA at (313) 224-4599. Tyrone Clifton, Director Detroit Building Authority 1301 Third Street, Suite 328 Detroit, MI 48226
Warren, MI, General Motors. Design &dvlp underbody structure systems incldg floors pans, cross members, reinforcements, rails, &brackets, for future full-size trucks &SUVs using UG &Teamcenter. Optimize design to meet cost &mass targets while achieving performance reqmts. Dvlp innovative solutions to resolve packaging &space constraints. Investigate &formulate design solutions to resolve performance issues identified during virtual or physical testing. Perform DFMEA to discover &reduce risk of product defects &failures. Ensure designs meets mfg reqmts &perform design for assembly assessments. Create a Statement of Requirements to enable purchasing to procure parts on a competitive basis. Use DFSS principles in optimizing design &reducing sensitivity to variation. Bachelor, Mechanical, Civil, or Automotive Engrg. 24 mos exp as Engineer, designing &dvlpg underbody structure systems incldg floors pans, cross members, reinforcements, rails, &brackets, for trucks or SUVs using UG &Teamcenter. Mail resume to Ref#18878, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.
Senior Product Engineer Global Telematics
Warren, MI, General Motors. Chair, monitor &control passenger vehicle next generation complete telematics module dvlpmt plans, &coordinate global, cross functional next generation telematics module Product Development Team with members located in U.S., Europe, China, Korea, &S.America. Coordinate budget for module changes incldg software &hardware comprising module piece price &total dvlpmt cost. Train &mentor new employees in product dvlpmt organization. Define part number structure for modules (hardware &software for production &service) to meet vehicle electrical architectures reqmts for vehicle programs &market regions. Coordinate bills of material (content &budget) for each vehicle program. Ensure that module assembly &software &hardware parts are released for each vehicle program using ESquare. Coordinate &communicate next generation product dvlpmt program deliverables &timing schedule for vehicle programs &to dvlpmt stakeholders. Use, &mentor Design Release Engineers in application of, cross functional systems &tools incldg prototype vehicle definition &planning (EMBASSY), Active Parts Management database, calibration file release for production (CASH) &Soft Parts Release. Bachelor, Electrical Engrg, Electronics Engrg, or Computer Engrg. 12 mos exp as Engineer, chairing, monitoring &controlling passenger vehicle next generation complete telematics module dvlpmt plans, &coordinating the global, cross functional telematics module product dvlpmt team. Mail resume to Ref#1666, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.
Systems Engineer
Warren, MI, General Motors. Implement integrated feature technologies incldg processes from across vehicle systems to engr, dvlp &write systems reqmts of global passenger car &sport utility vehicle vision &visibility systems incldg glass clearing systems (windshield wiper, rain sensing, defrost &defog systems, ducts, &side external mirrors systems). Apply theories of CFD &fluid dynamics to improve air flow in dvlpmt of new vehicle defrost &defog systems, &mirrors. Assess vehicle operator feedback such as wiper interruption &defrost delay, &communicate to program team, ensuring safety &system performance are met within timing defined for each specific vehicle program. Understand &explain to engrs the intricacies of vehicle systems within vision &visibility systems domain in order to support feature implementation. Define Interface Control Documents &assure ICD compliance. Provide technical guidance &application lessons learned to Feature Owners and System Engineers. Provide support for program issue identification, resolution, &tracking such as Problem Resolution Tracking System, related to domain features &systems. Provide support to development &validation teams. Act as primary contact between Systems Engineering &the program team to support robust execution &performance of features. Master, Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering. 6 mos exp as Engineer, applying theories of CFD &fluid dynamics to improve the air flow in a vehicle defrost/defog system, industrial ducts, &/or in mass transportation systems, or related. Mail resume to Ref#1435, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.
PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED
PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED
Lead Creative Designer
Warren, MI, General Motors. Lead &perform industrial design &dvlpmt of full vehicle exterior BIW systems, incldg doors, roof systems, hoods, rocker panels, fenders, front/rear fascia, A/B/C/D pillars, head lamps, tail lamps, turn signals, wheels, grilles, outside rear view mirrors &antennas, door handles, roof racks &LED systems, using Photoshop, Autodesk Alias, Autodesk Showcase, VRED, &PowerPoint. Analyze &benchmark competitors, market research for passenger cars, SUVs &CUVs incldg hybrid concepts. Ensure &perform vehicle packaging, material research, exterior styling, aerodynamics, lighting, cooling systems, wheels &suspension system, CAD modeling, fabrication process, final full-size mockup build to production incldg 2 initial exterior sketch directions, 1/3 scale clay proposal, CAD model proposal, &full size volume studies. Perform broad range of automotive exterior design tasks such as manual/digital sketching, clay &scale modeling, &Class A surfacing. Bachelor, Industrial Design or Transportation Design. 12 mos exp as Automotive Designer, Creative Designer, or related, designing &dvlpg full vehicle exterior BIW systems, incldg doors, roof systems, hoods, rocker panels, fenders, front/rear fascia, A/B/C/D pillars, lamps, wheels, grilles, mirrors, door handles, &LED systems, using Photoshop, Alias, Showcase, &VRED (or CATIA). Mail resume to Ref#18880, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.
Embedded Controllers Security Engineer-Telematics Warren, MI, General Motors. Write &maintain secure coding specifications for in-vehicle functions, vehicle firewall &packet filters, removable media security, &USB security in- vehicle, in concise technically correct English. Set standards for secure coding practices incldg coding techniques to avoid, how to correctly allocate &de-allocate memory, &use tools to statically scan code for known vulnerabilities. Create, design &build an automated tool chain in Python to analyze firmware images of production intent controllers scanning known vulnerabilities through malware &network threats (such as loaders to launch attacks). Provide written &oral guidance for strict secure implementation &proper encryption of new features such as Vehicle to GM Infrastructure communication, &secure communication between telematics controllers &other in- vehicle controllers such as radio &engine, in current &future OnStar telematics controllers used in N.A., &migrated to GM regions (Europe, China, Korea, &S.A.). Ensure changes are carried over from current generation to respective OnStar telematics programs in Europe &China in compliance with U.S., E.U. &China laws. Perform anlys on the Penetration Tests results of ChevyStar telematics controller used in South &Central America. 24 mos exp as Senior Malware Researcher, Reverse Engineering Team Leader, Senior Software Engineer, or related, creating, designing &building automated tools in Python to reverse engineer malware &network threats (such as loaders to launch attacks) &automatically detect known strains of malware &network threats. Mail resume to Ref#5838, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.
Page D-4
Senior Performance Engineer
Warren, MI, General Motors. Research, model &dvlp vehicle dynamics systems &simulation tools to accurately predict vehicle energy consumption &drive qlty performance for meeting the global regulations governing GHG &NOx emissions, &fuel economy/fuel consumption standards for passenger &hybrid vehicles. Conduct research to improve energy efficiency of autonomous connected vehicles. Dvlp new physics-based MATLAB &Simulink models to meet the functional reqmts of the vehicle control systems for accurately estimating energy consumption &vehicle performance. Endeavor to simplify complex vehicle control algorithms for integration with energy tools to accurately &efficiently predict energy consumption of current &future vehicles. Validate &verify developed Simulink models by conducting vehicle performance tests &by analyzing laboratory data. Dvlp an analytical physics-based road-load calculation tool to meet regional road-load coast-down standards. Dvlp tools &processes to calculate &track fuel economy labels, energy consumption, &fuel consumption for meeting the tail-pipe emission &fuel economy standards of all General Motor sales regions incldg but not limited to North America, Brazil, China, India, South Korea &Europe. PhD, Mechanical, Electrical, Aeronautical &Astronautical, or Aerospace Engineering, or related. 6 mos exp as Engineer, dvlpg an analytical physics-based road-load calculation tool according to global vehicle performance engineers’ reqmts to meet regional coastdown &fuel economy standards. Mail resume to Ref#4197-1B, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265. Dealer Policy Analyst General Motors, Detroit, MI. Analyze &use data anlys &corrective action tools in Excel &Word to dvlp simple solutions to complex dealer planning &communication problems. Analyze &study demographics of economic potential in new marketing areas ®ions using 8 step process. Use &create documents based on statistical anlys of green site geographical locations, existing to relocate locations, &redistribution of dealer site locations based on site re-assigned geography, using Market Smarts mapping system. Ensure documentary compliance with assigned geography based on compliance with dealer contractual &State statutory reqmts such as notice dealers within specified geographical area (4.2 notification) &Add point notification (4.3 notification). Monitor contractual documentation in Documentum &xPressions applications incldg contracts &dealer dvlpmt &ensure uncorrupted metadata &templates. Incorporate city &state urban planning studies into bulletin anlys &dvlpmt to ensure an improved understanding of the history of Dealer Sales &Service Agreements &related bulletins. Lead Dealer Policy Projects in the context of site anlys &state planning, studying geographical features &traits of inhabitants of target regions in collaboration with Dealer Network Planning &Investment. Review &propose new language for dealer bulletins as well as enhancing retrieval &interdepartmental bulletin communications across diverse regions, accounting for relationships &trends in geographic data. 24 mos exp as Geographer, Urban Planner, or related, creating documents based on statistical anlys of green site geographical locations, existing to relocate locations, &redistribution of dealer site locations based on site re-assigned geography, using Market Smarts mapping system. Mail resume to Ref#1513, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.
IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
WWW.MICHIGANCHRONICLE.COM
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Senior Software Engineer
Warren, MI, General Motors. Design, dvlp, review, integrate &test embedded automotive infotainment software for American Car manufacturer vehicles to play tuner audio sources such as AM/FM, SiriusXM, Media, Navigation, OnStar audio, Android auto &car play using Android, RTOS, C, &CAN. Gather reqmts, design, analyze &extrapolate data from vendor interface control documents to aid in creation of software interface design. Dvlp embedded software middleware for automotive infotainment control unit subsystem such as AM/FM Radio, SiriusXM &Diagnostics using C, C++ programming languages &QNX RTOS. Test, review &integrate the software with the main line branch using IBM Rational configuration mgmt tools, GIT &Gerrit. Design &implement software for Sirius-XM 360degree user exp having both satellite &IP streaming audio &data using C, C++ language. Design &implement software to switch the audio sources for SXM satellite &IP streaming protocol. Master, Electrical Engrg, Electronics Engrg, Electronics &Communication Engrg, Computer Engrg, or related. 36 mos exp as Software Engineer, Project Lead, Technical Lead, Technical Specialist, Team Lead, or related. The required exp must include 36 mos exp dvlpg &enhancing Sirius-XM satellite audio &data services radio features &/or audio &video Multimedia features, interfaces &enhancement, using C/C++ in Android, QNX &/or Linux operating systems. Will accept a bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent degree, in Electrical Engrg, Electronics &Communication Engrg, Computer Engrg, or related, followed by at least 5 yrs of progressive exp in the specialty, in lieu of the required education &exp. Will also accept any equally suitable combination of education, training, &/or exp which would qualify an applicant to perform the job offered. Mail resume to Ref#1717-205, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.
Senior Software Engineer
Warren, MI, General Motors. Dvlp smart mode feature to optimize battery power consumption &cabin comfort by the automatic change of drive modes in hybrid vehicles. Design, dvlp, debug, execute &validate core software components to optimize battery power consumption, using C, C++, &Java programming languages, Portable Operating System Interface (POSIX) system calls, Application Program Interfaces (APIs) and multi-threading Inter Process Communication (IPC) models, for infotainment or mobile embedded platforms in Linux-based Android operating systems. Attend reqmt capture meetings with sys engrs, navigation provider, Powertrain and Engine Control Module (ECM) specialists. Write &maintain subsys, sys level design documents using Enterprise Architect (EA) design tool. Dvlp smart mode feature Java Negative Interface (JNI) layer in C programming language using Android Native Development Kit (NDK) to integrate algorithm dvlp by Powertrain team using MATLAB Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) software. Master, Electrical, Electronics, Electrical &Electronics or Computer Engrg, or related. 36 mos’ exp as Software Engineer, Senior Software Engineer, Software Lead, or related. The required exp must include 36 mos designing, dvlpg, debugging, &validating core software components to optimize battery power consumption, using C, C++, &Java programming languages, POSIX system calls, APIs &multi-threading IPC models, for infotainment or mobile embedded platforms in Linux-based Android, Tizen &/or QNX operating systems. Will accept a bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent degree, in Electrical, Electronics, Electrical &Electronics, or Computer Engrg, or related, followed by at least 5 yrs of progressive exp in the specialty, in lieu of the required education &exp. Will also accept any equally suitable combination of education, training, &/or exp which would qualify applicant to perform job offered. Mail resume to Ref#1910- 208 GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.
Software Delivery Lead
General Motors, Detroit, MI. Plan &deliver GM infotainment &telematics software features delivery commitments. Define project scope, goals &deliverables that support business goals in collaboration with stakeholders. Design &dvlp application framework for internal combustion (IC) &hybrid passenger vehicle in vehicle infotainment systems using C/C++ &Enterprise Architect (EA), &integrate application framework with Controller Area Network (CAN). Model IC &hybrid passenger vehicle HMI for embedded infotainment systems incldg Advance Park Assist &Smart Mode features, integrated with CAN, using EA &C++. Work with program mgmt &feature owners to define Sprint timelines &milestones using tools IBM RTC &Jira. Plan the software dvlpmt activities using the Agile Scrum model. Coordinate &participate in architecture, reqmts, design, code, &test case reviews. Technical anlys of new reqmts from product dvlpmt &engineer solutions to implement the reqmts in infotainment systems. Dvlp Infotainment Apps, Human Machine Interface involving communication with automotive protocols including CAN, &Local Interconnect Network. Bachelor, Computer Engrg, Computer Science &Engrg, Electronics Engrg, or related. 60 mos exp as Projects Manager, Technical Lead, Software Engineer, or related, designing &dvlpg application framework for IC &hybrid passenger vehicle in vehicle infotainment systems using C/C++ &EA, &integrating application framework with CAN. Mail resume to Ref#18163, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482- C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.
city.life.style
October 18-24, 2017 Page D-5
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
CLASSIFIED HELP WANTED Seeking
SECRETARY II AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY
Mathematical & Statistics
Minimum Qualifications: High school graduation or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Two years secretarial experience. Ability to operate standard office equipment and do technical keyboarding. Knowledge of proper grammar, spelling & punctuation, intermediate word processing, intermediate spreadsheet and beginning database applications. Ability to effectively interact with the public, students, faculty, and staff. This is a full time, clerical-technical position, with a salary of $35,808 annually. See online posting for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by October 30, 2017. Must apply on line to: https://jobs.oakland.edu Seeking
ESL PROGRAM COORDINATOR AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY
CAS Continuing Ed/Outreach
Provide administrative support for the ESL Institute. Maintain close communication with all international applicants and current ESL students, monitoring student academic standing, providing academic advising and processing paperwork for new/returning ESL students. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Two years of professional work experience working with international students/employees. Salary is commensurate with education and experience. Refer to online posting for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by October 27, 2017. Must apply on line to: https://jobs.oakland.edu
Seeking
OFFICE ASSISTANT II AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Office of the Registrar
Minimum Qualifications: High school graduation or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Four years general office work, including experience in prioritizing work and meeting deadlines. Ability to operate standard office equipment. Knowledge of proper grammar, spelling & punctuation, intermediate word processing, spreadsheet and database applications. Ability to effectively interact with the public, students, faculty, and staff. This is a full time, clerical-technical position, with a salary of $39,693 annually. See online posting for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by October 25, 2017. Must apply on line to: https://jobs.oakland.edu
PUBLIC WORKS EMPLOYEE CITY OF SOUTHGATE NOTICE
Rebellion
From page D-1
colleagues, when I talked to her about it she said she was on her third box. So it just goes to show you it really touches people. I think especially Detroiters. And some of the young people have never seen this before. I think it’s such a wonderful learning vehicle.” To display such powerful, socially conscious and politically relevant works of art – there are 34 pieces in total – during the anniversary year of the 1967 Rebellion is somewhat of a masterstroke. Because art is such a powerful aspect of social protest, as well as an essential part of telling our story – and our history. Mercer emphasized how important she believes it is for Detroiters to experience the exhibit. Although the range of artists come from around the country, which is a good thing, there are some notable Detroit artists on display. The portrait of local activist Helen Moore, titled “Queen Mother,” captures not just Moore’s fearless countenance but her battle-hardened spirit as well. It’s the sort of portrait that grabs your attention by the throat whether you want it to or not. Kind of like Helen Moore. “We want people to realize that these rebellions took place all over the place during the ’60s and the ’70s,” said Mercer. “The show is really significant for the DIA because we haven’t done an exhibition like this on African American artists who focused on racial injustice and the period of the Civil Rights Movement. And so we’re very happy with the response we’ve received from critics as well as our viewers, regular audience and new audiences. “The exhibit is really significant as well because we wanted to participate in the Detroit ’67 Project led by the Detroit Historical Museum. So we partnered with the Charles
Valerie Mercer, curator for the General Motors Center for African American Art – Keith Owens photo Wright Museum to work together on focus groups and an advisory committee that we shared and that was all very helpful. But the Charles Wright Museum, the DIA and particularly the GM Center have been wanting to work together for some time and it finally happened.” The popular exhibition, which was featured on “PBS News Hour” and in major international and national publications, is free with museum admission. Admission is free to the DIA for residents of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. And this is a free show you do not want to miss, Detroit. The exhibition features paintings, sculptures and photographs, mostly by African American artists working both collectively and independently in the 1960s and ’70s. Artists in the collectives created art for African American audiences that asserted black identity and racial justice and, situated within the
story of these collectives, is the Detroit Rebellion of 1967. Also included are works by artists who were not part of a collective and artists working in later decades who were inspired by art from the Civil Rights Movement. Artists like Philip Guston, a white Jewish American whose portrait of three Klansmen cooped up in a car is something that, like most works of art, must be seen to be experienced. “At some point during the mid-60s, he was a very successful abstract expressionist and the critics loved him. Then he started doing this kind of stuff, and he did a whole series on the Klansmen. This one kind of looks like three clowns in a car. But there’s a whole series of them that he did, and the art world was so mad at him for having abandoned [his earlier style], said Mercer. “But the interesting thing about him is his family background. He grew up hearing stories of family members
who were from the Ukraine. And they were Jewish. So they suffered under the pogroms that were initiated toward Jews. And so earlier family members had fled Ukraine, went to Montreal, and some years later he was born. So it just makes sense to me. He grew up hearing these stories, and then reading in the paper about the Ku Klux Klan. There were artists who were not African American who wanted to express solidarity.” The exhibition is organized by the DIA and is in collaboration with the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, which organized the complementary exhibition, “Say It Loud: Art, History, Rebellion.” “Often [these artists] are more known in their communities, and also generations of artists do know of their work but many of them did not receive attention from the mainstream art museums. But now they are, which is wonderful,” she said.
Applications are now being accepted to establish an eligibility list for the following Municipal Employee Civil Service classification: Starting rate $12.24 per hour This classification performs unskilled operations in the repair and maintenance of streets, public works, recreation areas and utilities. Qualifications as established by the Michigan Municipal League for this position include • A valid Driver’s License • High School Diploma or Equivalent • Must be 18 years of age. A complete Job Qualification/Summary is available upon request at Southgate City Clerk’s Office, City Hall, 14400 Dix-Toledo, Southgate, MI when you pick-up your application Monday through Friday between 8:30AM and 4:30PM. No resumes please. Civil Service examination is required and test will be given at a later date. You will be notified of date, time and place of examination. Eligibility lists, once established by the Commission, will be effective for two years from date of establishment. E.O.E. DEADLINE FOR RETURNING APPLICATIONS: Wednesday, November 8, 2017 by 4:00 pm Ronald Jewell, Chairperson, Municipal Employees Civil Service Commission
The Drive 2.0 From page D-1 transforms it into an upscale, mature social experience with a Detroit edge. The club, the owners believe, is a welcome addition to the myriad of new establishments now in the heart of downtown, but it is even more significant because many feel left out. Moreover, these two Detroiters are playing a vital role in the city’s revitalization. “It means a lot. Starting from when Rod and I were really young, we thought about being businessmen. We went in different directions, I went to Texas and he went to New York, but we came back with this understanding that this is an opportunity to not only be a part of the city, but do something for the city and in the city. We’re not only a business in the city and a business for the city, we also do a lot of charitable events, working with DPS and other schools,” said Smith. “Detroit is growing and there are a lot of opportunities for a lot of people. We try to find ways to determine what
this venue can do to play a significant part of that. I think, in our small little way, we’re accomplishing that.” The true embodiment of its slogan, “Enjoy life. Play Ping Pong. Be Happy,” Drive’s mission is “to create a community who enjoy laughing, socializing and making the world a better place, all through ping pong.”
“One of the coolest things about table tennis is that on any given night here, in a city that seems to be a little fragmented in terms of diversity, it’s like the United Nations in here. We have white, black, Asian, Latino and they’re all just enjoying themselves,” said Hardamon. In addition to private func-
tions, including birthday parties, bar mitzvahs and corporate events, every Friday, Drive hosts Vintage Social, a nostalgic music event infused with ‘80s, ‘90s, 2000s hiphop, pop and R&B hosted by HOT 107.5’s Kamal Smith with Sounds by DJ LBoog. For more information about Drive, visit www.drive-detroit. com.
Page D-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • October 18-24, 2017
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