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NEIGHBORS

One Year in the Life: The real story of life in the neighborhood ROOTS. B1

Michigan Chronicle

Vol. 81 – No. 23 | February 14-20, 2018

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Welcome to the Neighborhood

By Hiram Jackson Detroit’s revitalization has been the subject of enthusiastic headlines around the country and even around the world for the past few years. Those of us who live in the city are happy for the optimistic press coverage surrounding multimillion dollar grants such as those seen in the northwest Detroit Fitzgerald neighborhood near Livernois and McNichols or the Inner Circle Greenway, a 26-mile recreational pathway running through a number of Detroit’s neighborhoods. But we also know there is much of the story going untold — the personal stories of the residents that Hiram Jackson give Detroit its spark and serve as the foundation for its resilience.

Today, through a grant from the Detroit Journalism Engagement Fund of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, the Michigan Chronicle and our community partner, ARISE Detroit!, are embarking on a journey to cover the lives of residents of three neighborhoods up-close and personal from the ground level using the residents of these neighborhoods as correspondents. The second Wednesday of each month for the next year, our Roots section will feature “Neighbors: One Year. Three Neighborhoods. Hundreds of Stories.”

Through this editorial series we will take a glimpse into the lives of the residents of the Linwood/Dexter, Livernois (from Fenkell to Eight Mile Road) and Southwest Detroit neighborhoods. We will focus most intensely on five specific areas, including churches, block clubs, neighborhood small businesses, schools and life transitions (births, deaths and funerals, weddings, graduations, etc.).

These are the areas of life for everyday Detroiters where, when examined closely, can best portray the true heart and nature of a community. It is the small stories of peoples’ lives that tell the biggest truths. And because our correspondents are from Detroit neighborhoods, they will be telling their own stories and, in the process, the smaller but more reflective stories surrounding the revitalization of Detroit.

I hope that you join us on this exciting journey. See our first installment inside and get to the neighborhoods.

Also, log on to michiganchronicle. com and meet the team who will bring the stories of these neighborhoods to life.

WHAT’S INSIDE

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan

Pancakes & Politics offers essential info on local issues

By Roz Edward Managing Editor

Co-sponsored by PNC Bank and DTE, the Michigan Chronicle’s Pancake & Politics series is a must-attend event for established and potential leaders in every critical sector for Detroit’s return to international prominence. The annual series, now in its 13th season at the Detroit Athletic Club, showcases principal players in Detroit’s revival and overall well-being. P&P panelists, renowned for their expertise in arenas from government and finance to arts and culture, are among the most sought out speakers in the Michigan and the Midwest.

From Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan to NAACP President Rev. Wendell Anthony, and from developer Dan Gilbert to Skillman Foundation Executive Director Tonya Allen, the monthly meeting of change makers and thought leaders is best known for its engaging commentary and guests’ candor.

“The ‘Pancakes & Politics’ series is designed to attract a diverse group of policy and decision-makers in Southeast Michigan to generate dialogue and debate around the issues that affect the economic and social well-being of the community,” said Hiram E. Jackson, publisher of the Michigan Chronicle.

“The series’ overall goal is to provoke thought and generate new ideas in various sectors that will continue to push our community forward.”

The 2018 series, already positioned to be the hardest hitting series to date with Mayor Mike Duggan opening the series on March 8 to share the state of the city and its future with breakfast guests. Having chronicled Detroit’s resurgence and examining the areas

of highest impact, this year’s series is turning up the heat and addressing the most asked question on the streets of the city, “What about the neighborhoods.”

With major shifts in the state’s political landscape and a number of economic developments on Detroit’s horizon, the 2018 P&P series guests are invited to ask hard-hitting questions and get

See PANCAKES

& POLITICS page A-2

Oakland County says ‘no’ to regional transit

By Henry Ward Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson said regional public transit is not the route to success for Oakland County. He delivered his thoughts during his annual address to residents of the county.

The Day of Love: Valentine’s Day 2018 Guide City.Life.Style. C1

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Stating costs to the county, which he believed would have little return on investment, Brooks said nine Oakland communities had already voted against joining public transit in a failed 2016 millage. The vote was close, failing by about 1,000 votes and he would “respect the wishes of the voters of the select nine Oakland County opt-out communities.”

“I will not betray them and slip something against their will into a tax machine from which they can expect little or no return on their investment.”

Recently, Detroit was one of the cities that was reviewed and evaluated for a second amazon headquarters.

If Detroit had been selected, the economic impact would have been $5 billion in local investment and 50,000 new jobs.

The lack of a robust regional transit network was one of the reasons that Detroit wasn’t a final contender for the headquarters. However, it wasn’t the only reason.

Lack of talent and attracting talent back to Michigan also were key factors.

Both Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan and Wayne County Executive Warren Evans expressed dismay and seeming surprise regarding Patterson's stance.

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“Just three weeks ago, Warren Evans and

I sat in Patterson’s office when he gave us his word he would work in good faith to try to develop a PA 387 countywide plan in time for the 2018 ballot,” said Detroit Mayor Duggan.

“That’s why it was so surprising to hear him last night declare he would ‘never betray’ his Oakland County communities by pursuing such a plan.

“While I would have preferred the courtesy of Patterson just telling us honestly he couldn’t support regional transit, at least now we no longer have any illusions about his position on the issue. Someday, southeastern Michigan will join the rest of America in recognizing the critical importance of regional transit. But it will take regional leaders to build a regional transportation

system.”

Evans also said regional systems work because they involve the region as a whole. He also mentioned Amazon’s decision to withdraw based on the lack of transit or a tangible plan.

“I believe there’s enough support for transit in this region, that it’s going to come in some form,” said Evans. “If my peers in Oakland and Macomb counties say they don’t want it, that’s their decision. That should have been expressed long ago. We’ll shift gears as needed. We need to build something. Ideally, it’s with the entire region on board, but we can’t wait forever for everyone to be on board. The stakes are too high.”

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February 14-20, 2018

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REGIONAL NEWS Senate Committee approves bill to shake up driver responsibility fees State Rep. Leslie Love (D-Detroit) proposed a bill that would forgive $637.1 million in driver responsibility fees, which affects more than 300,000 Michigan drivers. The Senate Committee on Michigan Competitiveness passed the bill (House Bill 5042).

“This was an ill-conceived plan from the beginning, and it has really hit people from my district very hard, many of whom are already suffering from the highest auto insurance rates in the country,” said Rep. Love. “Previously, the program gave drivers who could not pay fees for certain violations an option to do community service in lieu of payment, but this provision was only temporary. My bill will reinstate that option until those fees are forgiven in October of this year.”

House Bill 5042 would reinstate the community service option for individuals who would like to earn their Michigan driver’s license prior to when forgiveness takes effect on Oct. 1, 2018.

“The driver responsibility fee program was initially enacted to balance the state budget. Unfortunately, it did so on the backs of lowand middle-income drivers,” said Rep. Love. “These fees perpetuated a cycle of poverty, preventing those who needed to work from being able to drive to do so. I look forward to seeing this package move forward so this burden can be removed.”

Rep. Love governs District 10, which is in the Inkster to Joy Road and 8 Mile to Schaefer area.

Pancakes & Politics From page A-1

their messages heard. In professional circles, the third Thursday of each month from March to June is a standing calendar item for Pancakes & Politics and its much-anticipated meeting of the minds for forward thinkers tired of “the business as usual” approach to bringing about change.

Pancocks & Politics utilizes social media to get the real state of the city assessment and is reporting the State of the City narrative through an inclusive process. So,

breakfast guests and anyone with a smart device in the room are able to weigh in, in real time and join an exhilarating exchange of ideas and planning for the region’s future.

“Here is where the story of the triumphs and travails get told in a more intimate forum and on a more personal level, directly from the mouths of the experts and the people with boots on the ground,” explained Mable Jones. “I attended a Pancakes & Politics breakfast meeting in 2017 where a panelist cited some disturbing statistics, mainly that the state of Michigan

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has slipped from 28th to 41st in student achievement in 12 years.

At that time, they predicted we would be 48th in student achievement across America by the end of the next decade, and that’s happening. Michigan is now referred to as the Mississippi of the north.”

Just one of the reasons to get up-close and personal access to Detroit’s standard bearers and change makers driving the city’s comeback. “Along with this very savory breakfast comes some really sage advice from the real champions of Detroit who are advocating every day for a better quality of life for our citizens,” adds Mitzy Smith.

The series, established by the Michigan Chronicle, is noted for being a primary outlet for asking hard-hitting questions regarding the state of the city, examining the democratic process and fully exercising the right to free speech. Pancakes & Politics is that critical juncture between people and power. It’s the room where every voice is heard.

The Michigan Chronicle, Real Times Media event is a more contemporary approach to the discussion about of the state of the city from Bedrock holdings to public housing, and from brownfields to urban gardens.

Pancakes & Politics has not only joined the conversation about what it takes to make Detroit work (read: great) again, it is shaping the narrative and making history.

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February 14-20, 2018 • michiganchronicle.com • Page A-3

Major new nature center planned for Macomb County The Detroit Zoological has selected Macomb County as the site of the new Great Lakes Nature Center, which will focus on the water and wildlife of the Great Lakes.

Cornerstone closing private school to focus on charters

By Lee Claire Cornerstone Schools recently announced that it will close its Leadership and Business Private High School at the end of the 2017-18 school year. The 62 students currently enrolled in the academic program located on E. Nevada, will be transferred to Cornerstone’s Health + Technology High School and other schools in the city.

Cornerstone School are touted nationally for excellence in education and accelerated academics and have been providing first-class instruction to metro Detroit students since 1991. “In terms of our funding, in terms of the resources we were able to give to students in the private school setting, we saw that we would not be able to continue that at a high performing level, so we made the decision to do the right thing by our students and our donors and close the school,” said Ernestine Sanders, Cornerstone Head of School. “We grappled with that and it’s sad, but we did it in a very thoughtful way.”

Plans are in place now to step up operations for a One Cornerstone school initiative. The One Cornerstone concept involves private school and charter school programs focused on applying best practices gleaned from the 26-year history with the private school model.

“While we are closing one, we are still reaching out to many young people in the city with are charter school network.

We are going to focus all of our educational efforts on providing an excellent education at our charter schools.”

“The private cost model is a difficult one to sustain with so many quality free options now available,” added Sanders.

Historically, tuition for Cornerstone private school students involved a combination of funding sources, with only

one-third of the tuition of $8,500 annual tuition paid by families and the balance picked up by Cornerstone corporate and individual donors.

“Cornerstone is committed to extending excellence to as many students as they can. I am very pleased that they will focus on transferring 25 years of private school excellence into its charter schools,” said Tonya Allen, a former member of the private Cornerstone School Board and president of The Skillman Foundation. “More quality and high-performing schools is what our city needs and our children deserve.”

“Strategically, we are making tremendous progress on our previously adopted One Cornerstone plan,” said Clark Durant, co-founder of the school. “By concentrating efforts on bringing excellence to our charter schools, Cornerstone will continue the upward enrollment growth trend it has experienced the past two years.”

Enrollment at the five Cornerstone Education Group charter academies is at an all-time high.

“The Cornerstone charters provide a distinctive educational experience for our almost 3,500 students,” said Reid Gough, CEO of the Cornerstone Education Group. “The focus of Cornerstone Schools is to prepare students for a career, trade, college and a fulfilling life.”

In the 2016-17 school year, 100 percent of students at the Cornerstone Health + Technology High School (17351 Southfield Fwy. in Detroit) graduated and more than $6 million in scholarships was awarded to its students. Additionally, students have opportunities in workforce development, dual enrollment inT:7.25” local colleges and internship placement.

“As stewards of the environment, we have a great responsibility to protect the Great Lakes and the wildlife that inhabit them,” said DZS Executive Director and CEO Ron Kagan.

“Macomb County, with 32 miles of coastline along Lake St. Clair and 31 miles on the Clinton River, is the ideal location for a major waterfront nature center devoted to the natural wonders of the Great Lakes.”

A number of waterfront locations in Macomb County are being considered and site selection will be announced in the spring. Construction on the 20,000-square-foot facility is expected to begin this year and is projected to cost at least $10 million. When it opens by the end of 2019, the Great Lakes Nature Center is estimated to welcome, engage and educate 150,000 to 200,000 visitors annually.

“We are thrilled to be designated as the future home of this exciting waterfront nature attraction, which will provide a unique gathering place in Macomb County for family fun and learning, educational programming and community engagement,” said Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel.

The Great Lakes Nature Center will be home to a number of Great Lakes fish, including lake sturgeon and paddlefish – which are now extinct in the Great Lakes – and will focus on conservation efforts for these and other endangered species. It will include habitats for native amphibians, reptiles, turtles, small mammals, shorebirds and birds of prey – many of which will have been rescued and non-releasable, such as sandhill cranes

– and will also feature a native butterfly garden.

The Great Lakes Nature Center will provide the community opportunities for birding, astronomy and citizen science and will offer programs that focus on education, conservation, science and animal welfare as well as the environmental protection and economic importance of North America’s freshwater inland seas. It will be the largest nature attraction of its kind dedicated entirely to the Great Lakes, which hold 21 percent of the Earth’s accessible fresh water.

“In addition to being a beautiful and bountiful resource for tourism and recreation in Macomb County, the Great Lakes serve as a major thoroughfare for transportation and trade,” said Macomb County Public Works Commissioner Candice Miller, who serves on the DZS Board of Directors. “The Great Lakes Nature Center will play a significant role in educating the community about protecting this valuable natural resource.”

The Great Lakes Nature Center will be operated by the Detroit Zoological Society, which also operates the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center. It will connect in numerous programmatic

and technological ways with the DZS’s other campuses and will feature cutting-edge learning technology such as Science On a Sphere. Developed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the system uses computers and video projectors to display presentations onto a 6-foot hologram-like globe, including short films about animals and ecosystems as well as animated images of Earth’s activities such as atmospheric storms, climate change and ocean temperature.

The DZS’s long-led Great Lakes field conservation initiatives will be highlighted at the Nature Center, including efforts for Blanding’s turtles, mudpuppies, massasauga rattlesnakes, piping plovers, common terns, black terns, ospreys and bats.

Consistent with the DZS’s commitment to environmental sustainability, the Great Lakes Nature Center will be partially powered by hydro and solar energy, including an all-in-one ground-mounted solar panel system called a Smartflower. It will also incorporate eco-friendly policies, practices and construction, such as the use of permeable pavement parking, rain gardens, waste reduction and recycling, and sustainable materials.

The Great Lakes Nature Center will be funded through private and foundation contributions. In addition, efforts are underway to secure public funding from various environmental departments and agencies.

STATE OF MICHIGAN BEFORE THE MICHIGAN PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION **** FOR THE CUSTOMERS OF DTE ELECTRIC COMPANY AND DTE GAS COMPANY CASE NO. U-20084 • DTE Electric Company and DTE Gas Company have been directed to show cause why these utilities should not be found in violation of the Commission’s Consumer Standards and Billing Practices for Electric and Natural Gas Service, Michigan Administrative Code R 460.101 et seq (billing rules).

• The information below describes how a person may participate in this case.

• You may call or write, DTE Electric Company and DTE Gas Company, One Energy Plaza, Detroit, Michigan 48226-1279, (800) 477-4747. Any person may review the Commission’s February 5, 2018 order and press release on the Commission’s E-Dockets website at: michigan.gov/mpscedockets under Case No. U-20084.

History isn’t just something you read about, it’s something you make every day.

• The prehearing conference in this matter will be held:

DATE/TIME:

Friday, March 2, 2018, at 9:00 a.m.

This will be a prehearing conference to review and determine procedural matters.

BEFORE:

Administrative Law Judge Lauren G. Van Steel

LOCATION:

Michigan Public Service Commission 7109 West Saginaw Highway Lansing, Michigan 48917

T:10”

PARTICIPATION: Any interested person may attend and participate.

The hearing site is accessible, including handicapped parking. Persons needing any accommodation to participate should contact the Commission’s Executive Secretary at (517) 284-8090 in advance to request mobility, visual, hearing or other assistance.

The Commission will hold a hearing to allow DTE Electric Company and DTE Gas Company to show cause why these utilities should not be found in violation of the Commission’s billing rules. DTE Electric Company and DTE Gas Company shall file testimony regarding the extent and nature of improper shutoffs that occurred from January 2017 to February 5, 2018, and shall show cause by February 23, 2018, why DTE Electric Company and DTE Gas Company shall not be found in violation of the Commission’s billing rules. All documents filed in this case shall be submitted electronically through the Commission’s E-Dockets website at: michigan. gov/mpscedockets. Requirements and instructions for filing can be found in the User Manual on the E-Dockets help page. Documents may also be submitted, in Word or PDF format, as an attachment to an email sent to: mpscedockets@michigan.gov. If you require assistance prior to e-filing, contact the Commission’s Executive Secretary at (517) 284-8090 or by email at: mpscedockets@michigan.gov.

Any person wishing to intervene and become a party to the case shall electronically file a petition to intervene with this Commission by February 23, 2018. (Petitions to intervene may also be filed using the traditional paper format.) The proof of service shall indicate service upon DTE Electric & Gas Company’s Attorney, Patrick Carey, One Energy Plaza, 688 WCB, Detroit, MI 48226.

Any person wishing to appear at the hearing to make a statement of position without becoming a party to the case may participate by filing an appearance. To file an appearance, the individual must attend the hearing and advise the presiding administrative law judge of his or her wish to make a statement of position. All information submitted to the Commission in this matter becomes public information, thus available on the Michigan Public Service Commission’s website, and subject to disclosure. Information you wish to remain private should not be included.

Requests for adjournment must be made pursuant to the Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure R 792.10422 and R 792.10432. Requests for further information on adjournment should be directed to (517) 284-8130.

A copy of the Commission’s February 5, 2018 order and press release in this case can be viewed on the Commission’s E-Dockets website at: michigan. gov/mpscedockets under Case No. U-20084. For more information on how to participate in a case, you may contact the Commission’s Executive Secretary at the above address or by telephone at (517) 284-8090.

Jurisdiction is pursuant to 1909 PA 106, as amended, MCL 460.551 et seq.; 1909 PA 300, as amended, MCL 462.2 et seq.; 1919 PA 419, as amended, MCL 460.54 et seq.; 1939 PA 3, as amended, MCL 460.1 et seq.; 1969 PA 306, as amended, MCL 24.201 et seq.; and Parts 1 & 4 of the Michigan Administrative Hearing System’s Administrative Hearing Rules, Mich. Admin Code, R 792.10101 through R 792.10137, and R 792.10401 through R 792.10448.

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February 14-20, 2018 | Page A-4

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CONTACT US 1452 Randolph • Detroit, MI 48226 • (313) 963-8100 e-mail: newsdesk@michronicle.com

Why the fight for regional rapid transit must continue

By Paul Hillegonds and Carmine Palombo What is it about upgrading our mass transit system that is keeping us apart?

Especially when it is improved mass transit that will make us so much stronger as a region?

Our regional leaders joined together to create a significantly improved Cobo Hall facility that all could agree was a benefit to the region, not just Detroit. In this instance, regional cooperation was seen as a good thing. This same forward-thinking approach led to Paul Hillegonds v oter-approved millages for the Detroit Zoo and the DIA, and the formation of the Great Lakes Regional Water Authority.

But when it comes to regional transportation, we just can’t seem to cross that finish line. And the longer we take to accomplish this very necessary objective, the farther we will continue to fall behind other highly-populated regions.

The higher the price we will continue to pay as more and more of our young people leave the state for other parts of the country that ‘get it’ when it comes to connected, convenient transit. Millennials have less reason to stay, and certainly less reason to move here from other locales outside Michigan where they don’t need a car to get to and from work.

Investors have less reason to invest and companies have less incentive to locate here when our region isn’t even willing to work together on something as basic to progress as interconnected rapid transit. Although rapid transit may not have been the only reason we lost the bid for Amazon HQ2, it was certainly high on the list. And we will keep losing out again and again until we ‘get it’.

Why did regional leaders support the creation of the Regional Transit Authority in the first place? Because they felt we could do better than the current patchwork of disconnected, uncoordinated service that represents a per capita investment that is less than one third the average of what is funded for transit in other large metro regions.

The RTA was not created to add another layer of operation, but rather to plan and fund better coordinated and convenient four-county service between SMART, DDOT, AAATA, and on-demand public and private operators linking with fixed line routes—without opt-out interruptions in service. The RTA was not created to have one county subsidize operations in other counties. The law requires that any RTA plan must return in transit service at least 85% of the

We need to remember that the RTA 2016 ballot proposal was defeated by only 18,000 votes out of 1.8 million votes cast. While a loss is still a loss and we must accept that fact, it should still matter that so many regional residents expressed strong support for significantly improved transportation options and recognize what that would mean for all of us. Had the $4.6 billion 20-year tax initiative passed, we would have been on our way toward BRT (Bus Rapid Transit), commuter and rail service, enhanced local and on-demand connections, park and ride lots, and a single fare card for transfers.

Once that failed, we welcomed the initiative by regional leaders—with the support of civic executives—to make improvements to the 2016 plan that we had proposed. Needless to say we are sorely disappointed by the breakdown of that effort, especially when only weeks ago it seemed as if it was nearly a done deal and a January announcement of regional cooperation was anticipated.

Although those efforts appear stalled at the moment, we will continue to work with our local transit partners toward better coordinated service and incremental building blocks of a more comprehensive system.

We cannot, and we will not abandon our vision of more convenient, connected, comprehensive four-county service.

Our region’s growth, prosperity and opportunities for all of our citizens will require such a public investment. After all, it is the right thing to do.

Paul Hillegonds is the chairman of the Regional Transit Authority. Carmine Palombo is lead staff.

Super Bowl ad using Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to sell trucks gets negative reaction

By Lauren Victoria Burke NNPA Newswire Contributor

There were ads with Morgan Freeman rapping and ads with babies from around the world and fast cars with singer Steven Tyler. There were ads with medieval themes, magic and song.

Then there was the ad using the words and voice of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to sell Dodge Ram sell trucks.

“Everybody can be great,” Dr. King said in a speech in 1968, two months before he was mur- Lauren Victoria Burke dered. “You only need a heart full of grace; soul generated by love.”

The advertisement featured images of football players, cowboys, U.S. troops and first responders as a backdrop to King’s voiceover. The advertisement ended with an image of a soldier, a Dodge truck, and the words “Built to Serve.”

The commercial for Dodge trucks provoked protest on social media shortly after it aired from many Super Bowl LII viewers. It also induced a reaction tweet from the The King Center and Bernice King, the daughter of the late civil rights leader.

“Neither @TheKingCenter nor @BerniceKing is the entity that approves the use of #MLK’s words or imagery for use in merchandise, entertainment (movies, music, artwork, etc) or advertisement, including tonight’s @Dodge #SuperBowl commercial,” The King Center tweet stated not long after the ad was broadcast.

April 4, 2018 was the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Memphis, Tennessee, at the hands of James Earl Ray.

Quote of the Week

“For all their talk about making America great, the president is playing to a base that welcomes his racism and enjoys it.

That is a disgrace.”

tax dollars raised by a county for regional service. Federal matching funds that currently flow to other regions would result in a return on investment of well over 100% of a county’s regional tax contribution.

When our leaders supported the RTA’s creation, they envisioned economic development on a scale that simply will not happen unless we’re willing to work together as a region to provide what is needed to help us catch up with the rest of the country. This is about the role of transit in competing for the sorts of jobs and talent to help sustain and build that economic deCarmine Palombo velopment. This is about connecting an aging Southeastern Michigan population to health care and other vital services. About creating opportunities for residents who need better transit for access to schools and jobs.

“The worst commercials are those that use icons like Martin Luther King, Jr. to sell things like a Dodge Ram truck.”

“The worst commercials are those that use icons like Martin Luther King, Jr. to sell things like a Dodge Ram truck,” tweeted Boston Globe Deputy Bureau Chief Matt Viser. He wasn’t the only one who noticed.

“So, Ram Truck appropriated Martin Luther King Jr. and used an all white cast + 1 token black to sell trucks to Trump supporters as if we’re back in the 1950s. #SuperBowl,” stated Lucy Amato on Twitter.

“Using a “Martin Luther King” speech and completely taking it OUT OF CONTEXT for a truck commercial is a disgrace,” another Twitter user reacted in a typical statement.

Super Bowl advertisements have become an annual obsession as the expensive and targeted marketing to a huge audience has become a place where products are debuted for the first time.

Super Bowl ads have also become an annual time to analyze and study the many marketing strategy, as well as the “hits and misses” of the ads seen during the game.

It’s likely that the ad featuring King’s voice and words will likely be the source of analysis over the coming days. The ad might also reignite discussion on some of the decisions being made by Dexter King and Martin Luther King III regarding the use of their father’s image and words.

Lauren Victoria Burke is an independent journalist, political analyst and a frequent contributor to the NNPA Newswire and BlackPressUSA.com. She can be contacted at LBurke007@gmail.com and on Twitter at @LVBurke.

LONGWORTH M. QUINN Publisher-Emeritus 1909-1989

— Don Lemon

One year of Trump: What we’ve lost and what we’ve learned

By Rep. Karen Bass The year leading up to his inauguration in 2017, as the Republican presidential nominee, Donald Trump espoused senseless, baseless and ultimately empty assertions about the state of black Americans and our communities.

“What the hell do you have to lose?” he said in front of a predominantly White crowd in a small, predominantly White suburb of Lansing, Michigan.

After Trump was inaugurated, the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) found it prudent to answer his question.

In March, the Rep. Karen Bass CBC Executive Committee, led by our Chairman Cedric L. Richmond (D-La.), presented Trump with a 130-page policy document entitled, “We Have A Lot To Lose: Solutions to Advance Black Families in the 21st Century.”

The document, which was compiled by the entire 49-member Caucus, outlined policy solutions down to the bill text for issues facing our communities.

Voting rights, criminal justice reform, economic justice, education, health care, immigration – these were just some of the topics we presented to continue our progress.

Unfortunately, these are the issues that Trump and his administration have chosen to ignore.

The president, who has not commented on the document since we presented it to him, obviously has had other ideas, almost as if he wanted to answer his own question in his first year, to show us what we can lose.

The truth is that in this first year, we’ve lost a lot.

Almost immediately after being elected, Trump established the Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity and appointed a known vote suppressor to lead it.

The commission was designed to intimidate voters and Trump — because of political and legal pressure — recently decided to dissolve it into the Department of Homeland Security.

Throughout the past year, Trump has stacked the federal courts with judges with nothing short of scandalous records when it comes to voting rights.

Among his nominee group was Thomas Farr, who helped lawmakers draft and defend a 2013 law that the Fourth Circuit Court of North Carolina ruled targeted African American voters “with almost surgical precision.”

On the criminal justice front, Trump has used the Department of Justice to embrace mass incarceration and shy away from transparent policing. One example of this is an FBI report published last August titled, “Black Identity Extremists Likely Motivated to Target Law Enforcement Officers.”

One problem with the report is that the term “Black Identity Extremists” is an invented group that does not exist.

There are no Black people organized to kill law enforcement officers.

When I asked Attorney General Jeff Sessions, Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and FBI Director Christopher Wray about the origins of this report, none of them could tell me what the report was even based on or how the term was created.

Economically, Trump has gone after our consumer protections. Congress is working to repeal Dodd-Frank, a landmark piece of legislation designed to protect consumers from the wreck of the 2009 recession.

Trump’s favoring of big banks will ultimately leave consumers in the same spot they were during the recession, or worse. The education of our children is also under attack.

“What Trump’s first year showed is that hard-earned progress will never be safe so long as his bigotry, hatred and racism hold power. But what we showed this year in Alabama and Virginia, to not just our community, but to our country and the rest of the world...This year, Trump has answered his own question about what black Americans have to lose. But it’s an answer we don’t plan to accept.”

In 2014, for the first time ever, the majority of public school students in the United States were non-White.

Secretary DeVos has been less than helpful to these institutions, ignoring grave disparities in how students of color are disciplined compared to White students, and supporting a budget that would further attack services that public schools provide.

Trump has also gone after our healthcare by actively sabotaging the Affordable Care Act, continually issuing statements citing death spirals and other doomsday prophesies in addition to cutting funding for advertisements and allowing health insurance companies to sell short-term plans with inadequate coverage.

Trump and other Republican leaders have already openly discussed cuts to the social safety net, meaning Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security, as justification for their deficit-exploding tax plan.

Trump has spent a considerable amount of time attacking Black immigrants and their countries with both his racist words and policies.

In addition to referring to Haiti and African countries as “shitholes,” he’s attacked recipients of the Diversity Visa Program, rescinded the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and scheduled the elimination of Temporary Protective Status for many countries like Haiti and El Salvador.

The entire reason we have this program is to help protect immigrants from ills in their home country, which can range from famine to civil war.

To deport hundreds of thousands after opening our borders to them is unconscionable.

When we look at the issue holistically and see that tens of thousands of DACA enrollees are Black and that the plurality of diversity visa recipients are also Black, it contextualizes the president’s assault on these programs.

Unfortunately, these assaults on our criminal justice system, our consumer protections, our education and our health, will continue through 2018.

What Trump’s first year showed is that hard-earned progress will never be safe so long as his bigotry, hatred and racism hold power.

But what we showed this year in Alabama and Virginia, to not just our community, but to our country and the rest of the world, is that even in the face of opposition, our activism will continue and will prevail.

We must be organized and we will be organized.

This year, Trump has answered his own question about what black Americans have to lose. But it’s an answer we don’t plan to accept.

Congresswoman Karen Bass represents California’s 37th Congressional District. She is the 2nd Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) and she co-chairs the CBC’s Africa Taskforce. She is also ranking member on the House Subcommittee on Africa. Follow her on Twitter at @ RepKarenBass.

February 14-20, 2018 • michiganchronicle.com • Page A-5

Jereshia Hawk: The guru of online business coaching and income strategy

By Donald James Special to the Chronicle

Jereshia Hawk refers to herself as an income strategist, serial entrepreneur and proud corporate dropout. As founder and CEO of www.jereshiahawk. com, Hawk heads a unique metro Detroit-based company that helps service-oriented business owners build a six-figure business online.

Hawk said she’s on a mission to empower women of color, and some men, through her patented online courses, as well as her proven consulting and networking mechanisms to power oneon-one or group business coaching sessions.

According to Forbes magazine, the area of business coaching is booming.

“The business of business coaching is currently gaining tremendous traction,” said Forbes writer Russ Alan Prince. “New entrepreneurs, as well as established business owners, are steadily growing in their demand to learn how to make their companies considerably more successful. Many business owners are turning to business coaching services for help and proven methods to excel.”

With business coaching firmly in her company’s portfolio, Hawk says her specialty is interfacing online with individuals who work 9 to 5, but want to start, what she calls, “a side hustle.”

“I can help anybody who works 9 to 5 turn their business ideas into a full entrepreneurship,” said Hawk in a confident tone of voice. “I work with people to develop business strategies from

their ideas and turn their ideas into income.”

Hawk’s company offers several online platforms for those contemplating entrepreneurship, or are already in business but want to grow.

A major part of her philosophy is coaching and helping people build multiple income streams for financial flexibility and independence.

Online courses facilitated by Hawk include The Breakthrough 2018 Workshop, Jereshia Hawk designed for individuals to create a powerful strategic business plan; Fearless with Facebook, which presents a formula for growing businesses online; F*ck Fixed Income, facilitates Hawk’s process of building a five-figure business-selling service online; and Corporate Dropout, a five-part program which prepares individuals to eventually leave respective jobs for entrepreneurship.

From corporate dropout to successful entrepreneur, with a substantial gain in income, is something Hawk has personally achieved and mastered. It’s this mastery that Hawk’s global online clients, the vast majority women, follow her business advice from the Caribbean, Africa, Canada, the United Kingdom,

hawk.com.

the United States, among other global locales.

Prior to starting www.jereshiahawk.com, Hawk was a lead engineer for a Fortune 500 company, where she oversaw projects that ranged from $400 million to a billion dollars.

Armed with the business acumen acquired as lead engineer, in addition to the savvy entrepreneurship strategies she created, in Oct. 2016, Hawk started the Goal Getter Group, which morphed into www.jereshia-

While Hawk loved her engineering career, she didn’t like that African American and other minority women had limited opportunities in the field.

“I was really upset with the representation I saw as a black female engineer,” said Hawk, who holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Western Michigan University. “Black female engineers represent only one percent of the country’s engineers. I just didn’t see any women of color in executive and directorship positions in this field.”

In addition to Hawk’s current top executive role in her own company, she coaches, encourages and empowers

A STRONG INFLUENCE. TeachDETROIT believes that to revitalize our city, you need to start with great schools.

Every school. This Wayne State University College of Education 15-month teacher residency program is less than three years old and it’s already making an impact on teachers – like Wayne State student Tiffany Ward – and on Detroit kids. TeachDETROIT prepares new instructors by stressing that children living in urban communities are not only capable of doing the work, they can thrive. This is the kind of influential program that’s changing the city of Detroit, one child and one teacher at a time.

women of color to attain executive roles in engineering, as well as other industries while teaching them strategies to successfully start a business.

“I feel a strong responsibility to help women who look like me,” Hawk said. “I want to see them overcome barriers that are keeping them from top executive and director positions in engineering, as well as other industries. It’s important that I assist them in better understanding how to position themselves for C-suite positions.”

Hawk, whose business coaching advice has been featured in several magazines including Black Enterprise, is fully focused on the limitless possibilities of her company, while assisting others to start, launch and grow their businesses. Hawk’s objective is to maximize how clients craft, package, position, sell and monetize their respective business services for optimum results.

“Working with Jereshia helped me recreate my business mode and expand what could be possible,” said Natalia Crawford, a marketing strategist and designer, who runs her own company.

“I’ve hit my first five-figure month which is exciting.”

“As an income strategist, I’m excited to be in a position to coach and help people develop and improve their business strategies,” Hawk said. “I’m in awe when I see my clients’ businesses exponentially grow and make thousands of dollars more each month on their way to six-figure incomes.”

For more information on Jereshia Hawk’s online business coaching and income strategy services, log on to www. jereshiahawk.com.

Page A-6 • michiganchronicle.com •

February 14-20, 2018

Floyd Norman Award winning animator

Phil lamarr veteran voice over artist

Ruth E. Carter costume designer

Behind the Mask This month, Xfinity introduces you to some of the elite men and women making our heroes super.

From illustrators and studio execs, to costume designers and more. Just say, “Black History Month” into your X1 Voice Remote to hear their stories and see their work at Black Film & TV on Xfinity On Demand, where Black History is always on.

To go behind the mask, visit xfinity.com/discovermore

Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Xfinity TV with On Demand required. © 2018 Comcast. All rights reserved.

B1

ROOTS.

| February 14-20, 2018

My northwest side neighborhood...the memories are sweet, the future bright

michiganchronicle.com

NEIGHBORS

Lauren Hood Neighbors Staff Writer

The northwest side has always been inspirational and aspirational for me. Inspirational in that my block on the west end of the Bagley neighborhood (about two blocks north of the Northwest Activities Center) was full of longtime homeowners who had authentic relationships with neighboring families.

There was never a need for an outside entity to run a cleanup program. We did it for ourselves. We took care of our properties and each other.

I took for granted the sense of community I grew up with.

Somebody was always watching, and I mean that in the best possible way. I always felt that if anyone meant to do me harm that someone who knew me would do something or say something.

Beyond being able to just be me, freely, the northwest side also represented aspirational opportunities for black folks.

My neighborhood was middle, middle class. Closer to Livernois were more affluent, upper middle class neighborhoods that did not seem off limits to me.

Neighborhoods like Green Acres and Palmer Woods seemed perfectly attainable.

The Cosby-esque families that lived there were role models to us in adjacent neighborhoods.

My mother once told me that her father cried when he first saw our home at the corner of Pinehurst and Margareta. He said he hadn’t expected to see a day when “black folks could live in a house like that.”

It seemed modest to me growing up, but I now I have a bet-

What I love about my northwest neighborhood I love how old it is. I love that because it’s older, the hood is full of older people who are a wealth of knowledge. This neighborhood is really self-sufficient because all the active former go-getters are contributing to the neighborhood. And I like that the neighborhood hasn’t been gentrified yet. My neighbors have been holding it down. They support all the local businesses.

“Old folks be doin’ it!”

One Year in the Life: The real story of life in the neighborhood

By Roz Edward Detroit’s return from the brink of what many speculated would surely be the complete and utter demise of a major city is the story of phenomenal perseverance and that never-say-die attitude Detroiters are known the world over for. But while domestic and foreign news outlets and their readers focused on the city’s recovery from bankruptcy and getting automotive assembly lines back on track, the real story is that of Detroit die-hards who dug in their heels and held to their convictions that their communities would recover, moreover, that they were worth saving. It’s what we do.

A grant from the Detroit Journalism Engagement Fund of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan spurred a partnership between the Michigan Chronicle and ARISE Detroit! to tell the real story of individuals and families, local heroes and neighborhood

institutions who witnessed change in the day-to-day lives of residents and are best suited to provide first-hand accounts of the impact change brought to their neighborhoods.

One Year in the Life, a new monthly supplement to the Michigan Chronicle ROOTS section, is dedicated to exclusive coverage of the Detroit experience at a grassroots level of life in three distinct neighborhoods:

One Year in the Life, a new monthly supplement to the Michigan C ­ hronicle ROOTS section, is dedicated to exclusive coverage of the Detroit experience at a grass roots level. The edition is the result of a partnership between ARISE Detroit!, a nonprofit community mobilization coalition of more than 400 organizations and the Michigan Chronicle is the state’s oldest and most respected African American newspaper. The project is made possible through a grant from the Community Foundation of Southeast Michigan.

■ Linwood - Dexter District ■ Livernois Fenkell District and ■ Southwest Detroit Special correspondents, representing designated neighborhood districts, will focus intensely on five specific areas of coverage, including churches, block clubs, neighborhood small businesses, schools and life transitions (births, deaths and funerals, weddings, graduations, etc.).

See ONE YEAR page B-2

Linwood, Dexter-Davison... much has changed but still hope remains James W. Ribbron Neighbors Staff Writer

Every Sunday morning from 1969 to 1975 my dad would awaken his family for a full day of church. We would drive west on Davison Ave. to 14th Street, to LaSalle Blvd. and finally to Linwood Ave.

Name: Alex Elliott Age: 25 Neighborhood: Sherwood Forest Work: Sporcle Live (trivia company) ter understanding of some of the policies and practices that would have shaped his understanding of where and how we could live.

The neighborhood was full of assets that were for us and by us. We owned the businesses on the commercial corridors and those businesses prioritized serving community needs and hiring people from the community.

Although there are a number of vacant spaces on the corridors today, the businesses that have stood the test of time remain locally owned and locally staffed. Institutions like Baker’s Keyboard Lounge and Eric’s I’ve Been Framed have served the community consistently for decades.

Through my work leading a development organization in the area, I became privy to a number of planned new developments. Livernois at 7 Mile will see housing and retail at the sight of what used to be the famed B. Siegel store, and in Fitzgerald, west of Livernois,

See NORTHWEST page B-2

I can still remember Davison before the freeway. I crossed Davison to get to Davison Elementary. When the hole was dug for the freeway, we played down there.

Dexter-Davison District The sights along the drive to church excited me. As a 10-year-old boy I marveled at all the locally-owned businesses along Linwood and the stately grand homes throughout the neighborhood. I was proud of my city, Detroit.

Landmarks and Sights

■ Twelfth Street Memorial, 8431 Rosa Parks ■ Shrine of the Black Madonna, 7625 Linwood ■ Sacred Heart Seminary, 2701 Chicago Blvd.

■ Motown Museum, 2648 W. Grand Blvd.

■ Focus: HOPE, 1400 Oakman Blvd.

Our Sunday ride to church ended at the Shrine of the Black Madonna located at 7625 Linwood St., where a majestic painting of the Black Madonna and child stands as a symbol of black pride and dignity. It was one of the area’s religious institutions that stood strong as a source of empowerment and inspiration.

Over the years my feelings about the area have gone from,

See DEXTER-DAVISON page B-2

Southwest Detroit...a cultural melting pot in the truest sense Santiago Esparza Neighbors Staff Writer

The city’s southwest side has earned a reputation for being a showcase for Latino culture, especially as a home to thousands of people of Mexican descent.

But the area bounded by Jefferson Avenue, Rosa Parks Boulevard, Wyoming and Michigan Avenue is made up of a tapestry of ethnicities from Irish, to African American and from Russian to Polish.

Growing up in Southwest Detroit was a treat and I greatly benefitted from the exposure to so many people I likely would not have met otherwise.

Southwest Detroit District Landmarks and Sights ■ Honey Bee Market, 2443 Bagley, ■M exicantown International Welcome Center, Bagley at 21st Street ■C lark Park, 1130 Clark St. ■P atton Recreation Center, 2301 Woodmere ■L atin Americans for Social and Economic Development (LASED), 4138 W. Vernor.

As we look at this neighborhood, which is home to about 44,000 people, according to the 2010 U.S. Census, over the coming year, we hope to share the things that make this bustling area so dear to those who live here and those being attracted here, along with the challenges faced by this community.

Sure, there are numerous Latino eateries, taco trucks and even vendors selling delicacies such as elote (corn on the cob) drenched in butter, mayonnaise, chile powder and Parmesan cheese; paleta, Mexican ice cream or various fruits placed in

See SOUTHWEST page B-2

Page B-2 • michiganchronicle.com • February 14-20, 2018

NEIGHBORS

One Year From page B-1

These intimate insights poignantly express life on the ground, in the streets and in the lives of the people who live it with integrity and pride.

The One Year in the Life: Neighbors section is intended to provide a platform for Detroiters to tell their own stories and, in the process, put in context the real stories surrounding the revitalization of Detroit.

The Michigan Chronicle and ARISE

Detroit! worked together closely to identify key stakeholders from each neighborhood who can assist in this effort. Neighborhood groups and other individuals and associations who know their communities best will serve as on-the-ground and in-the-streets correspondents to give authentic accounts and develop comprehensive overviews of day-to-day life that connects Detroit­ ers and their communities.

The quality of stories produced will shine a bright light on these first three distinctive neighborhoods and bring the picture of Detroit’s resurgence into focus.

Northwest Northwest

Northwest District Landmarks and Sights

From page B-1 south of 6 Mile, we’ll see the rehabilitation of some existing homes, construction of new homes and a new park and greenway connecting to neighborhood anchor institutions, Marygrove College and the University of Detroit Mercy.

While improvements to the physical assets in the area will undoubtedly see an abundance of media coverage and attention elsewhere, the most valuable asset on the northwest side has always been the people.

We’ll cover them here!

■ Eight Mile/Fenkell ■B aker’s Keyboard Lounge, 20510 Livernois Ave. ■E ric’s I’ve Been Framed, 16527 Livernois University of Detroit Mercy, 4001 W. McNichols ■N orthwest Activities Center, 18100 Meyers Ave. ■D etroit Sip, 7420 W. McNichols Lauren Hood (Reporter): A longtime resident of the Bagley community in northwest Detroit, Lauren Hood has been involved in a variety of programs and initiatives involving development and planning in Livernois/ McNichols area of northwest Detroit.

She is the former interim director of the Live6 Alliance in northwest Detroit. She has also been involved in community engagement and advocated for the preservation of African American spaces.

Southwest

Southwest

From page B-1 a cup and doused with chile powder and lime.

But there also are pierogi (think of them as big Polish ravioli) fundraisers at churches, classes on how to breakdance and DJ at area centers catering to youths, and three library branches offering various activities.

This neighborhood is the size of a small city but there is a connection among residents in these neighborhoods that makes it feel much smaller. Part of it is because it is one of the most densely populated areas in the city.

There also is a long tradition of neighbors helping neighbors in Southwest Detroit, even if you do not know each other. Landscapers will mow the lawns of elderly neighbors with no charge. They will shovel walks in winter and plow streets and even driveways so neighbors can easily get about.

There is always room for a few more people at dinner and birthdays turn into makeshift block parties with everyone invited.

What I love about life in Southwest: Justin Balsis, 29, southwest Detroit native “I love that they (the city and state) are fixing things up. We now have a skate park at Biter Park and we now have bike lanes. I ride with several clubs and the lanes are important. I would never have thought we would get things like that. It is great to see them.” graffiti. But community groups like Detroit Southwest Pride and businesses like Danto’s Furniture have stepped up to board up vacant structures and host community events for youths.

When it warms up, churches are busy on the weekends with weddings, baptisms and quinceaneras (coming of age ritual for girls turning 15). Music can be heard pumping from cars and even motorcycles.

There still is much work to be done. Infrastructure upgrades are sorely needed. Immigration is a huge concern and improving schools is paramount. But there is a can-do spirit to the area and we will share it with you in the coming months.

The neighborhood is not immune to crime or quality of life issues like

Santiago Esparza is a Southwest Detroit freelance writer.

Dexter-Davison

Dexter-Davison

From page B-1

“Wow, look at that!” to “Wow, what happened?” The businesses that fed us, dry-cleaned our clothes, and kept our hair well-groomed are gone.

Many of those stately homes are skeletons of themselves. Or gone. Empty, sometimes trash-filled lots fill spaces that were some people’s home.

Linwood Ave. bounded by 12th St, Dexter Ave., W. Grand Blvd. and Oakman are perhaps best known as the area hit hardest by the 1967 rebellion. Since 1967, the area has struggled with its identity as it sought to rebuild neighborhoods and hold on to lost memories. Underneath the veil of rebellion, hope remains.

Despite the devastation that wreaked havoc on numerous blocks, a vitality remains there still. The Boston-Edison historic district, once home to the likes of Henry Ford and Berry Gordy, still offers some of the city’s most beautiful homes. Focus: HOPE, an outgrowth of the rebellion, offers job training, education and other services to people from throughout the city. The Joseph Walker Williams Recreation Center welcomes seniors and youths to the community gathering spot. The Motown Museum attracts thousands annually from all over the world and has big plans for expansion. Deeply-rooted houses of worship still offer hope and inspiration for residents in and outside the community.

Santiago Esparza (Reporter): Formerly a reporter for The Detroit News, Esparza is a lifelong resident of southwest Detroit. He reported for the neighborhood section, On Detroit, while at The News. He is a graduate of the Wayne State University journalism program.

What do you love about your neighborhood?

“Culture, the people, passion that people have. The essence of the city. This is what Linwood is, a mixture of our city.”

Jarmaine Carroll is a community leader doing work on Highland and Cortland called “Soul Project (Sharing Our Universal Love).” He founded an organization We Unite Foundation to provide prevention and mentoring programs for disadvantaged youth.

Yes, the Linwood, Davison, Dexter community, like many in this city, is challenged, but the roots of this community run wide and deep.

I’m still a proud Detroiter.

In the coming months, I intend to get up-close and personal with the people and places that continue to make this community thrive, and explore the challenges and obstacles that block our way.

James Ribbron (Reporter): Ribbron is director of the community group Impact Detroit and has played an active role in the Linwood-Dexter neighborhood. He is the historian for the Shrine of Madonna Church and produces the Black Slate radio show. He is also involved in supporting the work of the Detroit Future City neighborhoods initiative.

Paul Warner (Photographer): Warner, a former Detroit News intern, has won numerous photo journalism awards and has worked for the Ann Arbor News and other publications. His work has been use by the Associated Press and Getty Images, one of the world’s premier photo image reproduction companies. He has also photographed numerous celebrities, including Beyonce and Prince.

B3

| February 14-20, 2018

Money.

michiganchronicle.com

Lyft takes community organizations for a ride

By Henry Ward Lyft is doing more than offering rides from one destination to another. In addition to transportation, the company has created a Lyft Community Grant, which is $1,000 in the form of Lyft ride credit.

Lyft developed the Community Grants program to support the work of Detroit area nonprofit organizations focused on building stronger, healthier, more equitable communities.

The winning nonprofit has to explain how the Lyft ride credit can be used to further or advance the mission of the organization. Each month, one nonprofit in each participating region will receive a $1,000 grant. The nonprofit will be notified on the 10th of each month. The first awards will be announced in March.

“We are so thrilled to be able to offer this opportunity to nonprofit organizations doing inspiring work on behalf of communities in the Detroit area,” said Detroit General Manager Elliot Darvick.

“There’s a lot of great work being done, and Lyft is grateful to provide an opportunity for organizations to get a bit of extra support building meaningful impact in our region.”

There is no fight Sheila C. Johnson hasn’t won

By Ronda Racha Penrice Recently, Lyft sponsored at event with MusicTown Detroit to support the arts in Detroit.

“We’re excited to continue strengthening partnerships with local organizations that are doing important work in the community,” said Darvick.

Participating cities include Albany, Ann Arbor, Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Columbus, Cleveland, Dallas Fort Worth, Detroit, Houston, Indianapolis, Miami, Minneapolis, Orlando, Phoenix, Portland, Nashville, New Jersey, New York City, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington, DC. Applications can be found at lyft.com.

The grant guidelines are: • Organizations must be a registered 501(c)3 and have a website.

• Work should be limited to a specific metropolitan area or region.

• Applications should include the organization’s mission and an explanation of why their services are important in the metro area or region.

• Applications should also discuss factors of transportation and mobility in the organization’s mission and operations, along with an explanation of how the Lyft ride credits would be used.

Student groups from University of Michigan, Concordia University-Ann Arbor, Eastern Michigan University and Washtenaw Community College are eligible for the ride credit program.

One recipient is selected each month based on the previous month’s application submission. Organizations are not limited in applying multiple times if they have not yet been selected to receive the ride credits.

The “biggest fight of my life,” Sheila C. Johnson once shared, wasn’t co-founding Black Entertainment Television (BET) or ending her 33-year marriage to Robert “Bob” Johnson, with whom she raised two children and started a television network.

It was getting zoning, planning and other local government permits to open a hotel and spa in the village of Middleburg, Virginia. While her proposed Salamander Resort and Spa would eventually create dozens of jobs and pay millions in property and other taxes, the village government fought her every step of the way.

Her hard-earned wealth granted her few advantages. “None of that matters,” she told CNN in 2016. “As an African American, they didn’t want me to do this. It was the fight of my life.

I’ve never been more frightened in my life.”

Yet Johnson never backed down.

“Change is always difficult, so there was inevitably going to be some opposition,” she said in an email. The battle was so epic that it spanned a decade.

Founded in 1787, Middleburg, a village of just 673 residents in the 2010 census renowned for its steeple chases and fox hunts, considers itself the “Nation’s Horse and Hunt Capital.”

Johnson, an area resident, certainly fit the theme. Proposed in 2002, the equestrian-inspired Salamander — with its riding trails and horse paddocks — kept to the town’s traditions. The nearly 350 acres Johnson purchased for Salamander was once owned by former U.S. ambassador Pamela Harriman, the celebrated horse lover who was a one-time daughter-in-

law of Winston Churchill.

Also, Johnson’s daughter, Paige, is an elite equestrian who competes all over the world.

“I was naïve about realizing that I was south of the Mason-Dixon Line and a lot of people got very nervous about this African American woman coming in and building this resort,” the 68-year-old Johnson said in an exclusive interview early in 2017.

No stranger to racial discrimination, growing up, the Pennsylvania-born Johnson moved more than a dozen times before settling in Maywood, just outside Chicago, because her neurosurgeon father’s race frequently became an issue.

Those experiences taught Johnson a resilience that served her in that fight and even now. “I learned the life of hard knocks and racism but I was also able to assimilate into the different cultures and do what I had to do to

make things work,” she said.

A woman of many firsts, Johnson was the first African American woman to achieve a reported net worth of $1 billion. She is the first African American woman to own three professional sports teams in three different leagues — the NBA’s Washington Wizards (where she serves as both president and managing partner), the NHL’s Washington Capitals and the WNBA’s Washington Mystics. In addition, she was the first African American woman to become a cheerleader at her alma mater, the University of Illinois, where she is on track to receive an honorary doctorate in May 2018.

Johnson is also a renowned philanthropist. The Sheila C. Johnson Design School Center at the Parsons School of Design in New York City, where she serves on the Board of Governors, bears her name. At the Harvard Kennedy School, she endows the Sheila C. Johnson Leadership Fellowship to support emerging leaders primarily focused on erasing disparities in underserved African American communities.

As an African American woman entrepreneur, Johnson has blazed new trails in the corporate-dominated hospitality industry. With 168 guest rooms and suites, an on-site stable, a 23,000-square-foot spa and a cooking studio, Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg, the crown jewel in her impressive constellation of almost 10 hotels, has won coveted Forbes Five Star and AAA Five Diamond honors.

Johnson added Nopsi New Orleans to the Salamander Hotels and Resorts family in summer 2017 with Hotel Bennett in Charleston, South Caroli-

See SHEILA

C. JOHNSON page B4

Joseph B. Anderson, Jr. recognized as trailblazer and receives Lifetime Achievement Award from EYA

By Amelia Beard Problem solver, trailblazer, mentor and leader. Those are the reasons why Joseph B. Anderson, Jr., chairman and chief executive officer, TAG Holdings, LLC, was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by U.S. Black Engineer & Information Technology (USBE) magazine.

Joseph Anderson, BEYA 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award Honoree and Chairman and CEO Tag Holdings and Alicia Boler-Davis, Executive Vice President, Global Manufacturing General Motors; and 2018 Black Engineer of the Year

The award was presented in Washington, D.C., at the annual Black Engineer of the Year (BEYA) awards ceremony. Anderson has had an illustrious career that started with a military background and ended as chairman and CEO of one of the largest minority-owned companies in the metro Detroit area.

His company, Tag Holdings, manufactures precision components, offers supply chain management solutions and worldclass modular assemblies.

“I would like to thank the BEYA nominating committee and, in particular, Dr. Tyrone Taborn for his very personal recognition of me and my lifetime of achievement,” said Anderson. “We first met more than 20 years ago at this very event when I was a Black Engineer of the Year finalist.”

The 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented

by Johnnie Wilson, who retired in 1999 as a four-star general and commander, Army Materiel Command, and Lloyd Austin, who retired in April 2016 as commanding general of U.S. Central Command, overseeing United States efforts in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Middle East, from Egypt to Kazakhstan.

In addition to Anderson, NEYA named Alicia Boler-Davis 2018 Black Engineer of the Year. She is executive vice president, Global Manufacturing,

with General Motors, and only the sixth woman to win the award in its 32-year history.

Anderson is a decorated US Army officer who has had a successful career for over five decades and rose to prominence after his role as a platoon leader in Vietnam.

Anderson’s 13 years of service was documented in “The Anderson Platoo,” that won an Oscar and an Emmy for Best Documentary Film of 1967. On his second tour in Vietnam, Anderson led an infantry company and served as an aide-de-camp to two generals. He received accolades for his valorous service in both tours with military awards that include two silver stars, five bronze stars, three Army Commendation Medals and eleven Air Medals.

See ANDERSON page B4

February 14-20, 2018 • michiganchronicle.com • Page B-4

POWER MOVES

small business spotlight

Sweet Magnolia’s Southern Cooking partners with community to help local schools

By Amelia Beard Sweet Magnolia’s Southern Cooking in Southfield is introducing a new community program to help local schools raise funds for their programs.

The program is called “Fun Night With Your School Fundraiser” and is designed to help support local schools by providing them with a safe, fun, simple way to raise money for clubs, socials or any extracurricular activity or need that directly benefits students, school programs, or school-designated causes.

“We’re really dedicated to being a part of the community, not just a business within it,” said Johnny Cannon, director of operations at Sweet Magnolia’s Southern Cooking.

“Many of the area students, teachers and their families already dine here, so we thought let’s find a way to grow their dining experience into something that gives back to them and supports their school.”

Sweet Magnolia’s Fun Night With Your School Fundraiser is simple to participate in, and a fun, easy way to share a meal for a great cause. Schools simply need to pick a date and a time window, help spread the word on the event to supporters, then show up and dine at the restaurant (located at 29221 Northwestern Highway in Southfield) between those hours, and Sweet Magnolia’s will donate 15% of the night’s sales back to the school. Sweet Magnolia’s even invites teachers and faculty to get involved by helping servers take orders and serve students, friends and family.

“The idea is to have a good time with it,” said Cannon. “We’ve held similar fundraising events at Sweet Magnolia’s and everyone gets a kick out of being waited on by people they know to be something else, like teachers and principals. More importantly, this is a safe way for our kids to raise money for their school. Unfortunately, the days of being able to send kids out to sell cookies and candy to raise money for school activities are long gone.”

To register for a Fun Night With Your School Fundraiser at Sweet Magnolia’s Southern Cooking,

Live6 recently announced two new hires to its executive team. Cecily King was hired as executive director and Jeremy Lewis as the new commercial corridor manager.

or for more information, please visit Sweet-Magnolias.com.

For media inquiries, please contact Sherrie Handrinos at 734-341-6859 or SherrieHandrinos@ gmail.com.

About Sweet Magnolia’s Southern Cooking Sweet Magnolia’s opened its doors, and its arms, to Southeastern Michigan in July, 2016, on Northwestern Highway in Southfield. This unique dinein restaurant combines the very best of Southern hospitality, with an extensive array of traditional Southern dishes, creative interpretations of Southern favorites, and modern cuisine, made fresh daily from scratch, from the farm to the table. The family-friendly, yet elegant restaurant also features an express carry-out buffet bar for home-cooked meals to-go, and a banquet facility for private parties and special events.

The brainchild of Detroit native Carolyn Cannon, the restaurant is affectionately named after her Mother, Magnolia, an extraordinary cook, who set the standard for Southern cuisine and hospitality, for decades in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The menu is filled with personal recipes, handed down through generations and brought to life in beautiful fashion as a timeless tribute. Visit Sweet-Magnolias.com for more information.

By Branden Hunter

time, so I came back and brought my girl’s shoes.

She’s going to be happy about her shoes and I’m happy that I found a place that I can come to.”

Shoeshining is an occupation that dates back to the early 19th century. Some well-known shoeshiners were the Godfather of Soul, James Brown, former baseball player Sammy Sosa, and even Malcolm X.

“I have some gym shoes that I am going to bring here and we’ll see how that goes. They have great customer service here, Ms. Morrison is a great person and she knows my name when I come in. I’d definitely refer others here.”

Theodore C. Morrison got his start in the shoeshining business in Detroit in 1954. He needed a better way to feed his family, so he opened up a shoe stand on Joy Road and Grand River called House of Morrison. As the business thrived, he added a shoe repair service.

House of Morrison moved to its current location on Livernois near the Avenue of Fashion, just south of West Seven Mile Road, in the late ’70s.

Morrison retired in 1991 when his daughter Rhonda began to run the family business. She had been working at her father’s business full-time since 1983, so it became second nature to her. The business has been in op-

Anderson From page B-3

Anderson was selected as a White House fellow before moving on to further success as a corporate executive and as an entrepreneur with ownership of several companies.

Currently, he heads TAG Holdings, LLC, which serves the aerospace, automotive, defense, construction and other industries that require manufacturing and supply chain management services.

A past chairman of the U.S. Department of Commerce Manufacturing Council, Anderson is currently chairman of the Board of Directors of the Federal Reserve

Rhonda Morrison, owner, House of Morrison’s. (­ Photo credit: Kory Woods) eration for over 60 years and still provides quality leather goods service to its longtime customers.

“We’ve been maintaining, no question about it,” said Morrison. “There aren’t too many shoe repair shops in Detroit left and definitely not many good ones. So, our service is probably needed everywhere, but it was to my father’s advantage to be over here in the business district, where they have a community of people that invested money in their shoes and boots.”

At House of Morrison, service isn’t limited to cleaning and polishing shoes. They maintain leather goods, cleaning, repairing, and restoring just about anything leath-

Justin Wicker was recently promoted to talent acquisition manager at FCA Fiat Chrysler.

In this new position, Wicker will be responsible for the facility salary workforce including union-represented engineering employees. He also will handle all grievances and EEOC compliance. Prior to this position, he was a People Development Pillar Lead and a Labor Relations Lead at the Trenton Engine Complex. Wicker is a Howard University graduate.

Justin Wicker

Nonprofit

House of Morrison Shoe Repair still shining

“God told my father to open up a business to serve his family and the community, so shoeshining came to mind,” said current owner Rhonda Morrison. “My father was a trucker and had very good paying jobs. But as time went on and he had to make decisions about taking care of his family, God told him this business was the best way to assure that.”

Automotive

er. So if you needed your leather car seats cleaned, leather sofa restored, or your baby’s shoes repaired, they can do that for you as well.

Corey Boyd lives in the area and was looking for a place to clean and repair his shoes. A good friend referred him to House of Morrison, who some call the best shoe repair shop in Detroit. Boyd has only been bringing his shoes to House of Morrison for a couple of weeks but was so satisfied with the work that was done the first time, that he decided to bring his girlfriend’s shoes the second time.

“I was very excited about coming here,” Boyd said. “They did a good job on my shoes the first

Morrison has been running her father’s business for 27 years now and did have plans for her nephew, Keenon Morrison, to take over for her.

He was in the process of being next in line to be the owner when he and his little brother tragically died in a car accident in 2014. That hit the Morrison family hard, especially Rhonda, who had high hopes for her nephew as the new owner.

“I was mentoring my nephew to take over, but God had different plans,” said Morrison. “His taking over of the business was going to be a progression of what my father started.

He had been working here since high school. We will have to see what the progression of this business will be, but I was leaving that all up to Keenon.”

“But I’m going to continue to honor my store hours, continue to give professional service, and give exemplary work for fine leather goods as we have for the last 60 years.”

In this position, King will be responsible for the implementation of projects that make a visible impact on the Livernois-McNichols corridor, with the primary goal of improving the quality of life for residents and community stakeholders. She will continue to interact with residents, business owners and community stakeholders to ensure that Live6 Alliance’s development efforts are in alignment with their needs. Prior to her appointment as executive director, King served Cecily King as development director for the City of Detroit’s Housing & Revitalization Department, where she oversaw more than $200 million of multifamily and mixed-use projects across the city. One of her key contributions was developing the concept for the Fitzgerald Revitalization Project, which broke ground last fall and is currently underway. King, a native of New Jeremy Lewis Jersey, completed her undergraduate degree at Princeton University, earned a master’s degree of real estate development at Columbia University and a master’s degree of structural engineering at Lehigh University.

Lewis, a native Detroiter, will lead efforts to revitalize and enhance the commercial corridor of Livernois and 6 Mile. Prior to this position he was worked with the Osborn Business Association and the Detroit Regional Chamber as the director of National Commerce Group Business Development where he managed business solutions focused on small and medium sized businesses nationally. He is a graduate of Hampton University.

Do you have good news to share? A new promotion, opened a new business, authored a new book, landed a contract? Let us know at the Michigan Chronicle so that we can share your accomplishments.

Please send your information to

newsdesk@michronicle.com.

We look forward to hearing from you and sharing your news.

Sheila C. Johnson

From page B-3

na set to join in summer 2018.

Back in Middleburg, Johnson says, “Salamander has certainly contributed to an economic upturn in the town through taxes, paying for water and wastewater treatment plants, and attracting visitors who frequent local businesses, including galleries, boutiques and wineries.”

Beth Erickson, Visit Loudoun’s president/CEO since 2014, agrees on Johnson’s impact. “When Sheila opened Salamander, it was the only new luxury destination resort in the United States that opened in 2013 and, by opening it alone, created 400 jobs,” Erickson said.

“Occupancy taxes from Salamander have exceeded $1.3 million per year.”

“Some of those taxes,” said Erickson, “went directly to improving sidewalks and crosswalks in Middleburg. It created revenue that allowed the town’s failing pipes to be replaced.”

An added bonus is

through the Middleburg Film Festival, Johnson, who is also a film producer with “Lee Daniels’ The Butler” among her credits, “has literally brought Hollywood to Loudoun County” said Erickson.

Held annually in October, the festival has “put us on the map in the company of Cannes, Telluride, Sundance and that is wonderful company to keep.” A talk with acclaimed African American female director Dee Rees (“Mudbound”) was a highlight of the 2017 festival. In 2016, the festival screened eventual Oscar winners “Moonlight” and “La La Land.”

Throughout her life, Johnson, who epitomizes “black girl magic,” has thrived on excellence and challenging herself. “I always try to look for areas in which we, as African Americans, are in,” she said. “I just feel as though I can do it just as well, if not better.”

“I never used my race as an excuse to not be able to do something,” she said.

Bank of Chicago-Detroit Branch. He also serves on the Board of Directors of Rite Aid Corporation, the Board of Directors of Business Leaders for Michigan, and the Board of Trustees for Central Michigan University.

His community involvement includes the National Recreation Foundation, Horizons Upward Bound Advisory Board and the University of Michigan-Dearborn Executive Leaders Advocacy Group. In June 2007, he received an honorary doctor of management degree from Kettering University and in December 2013 he received an honorary doctor of commercial science degree from Central Michigan University.

Friends gather to celebrate Joseph Anderson, from left: Dr. Rochelle Hurt, wife of Joseph B. Anderson, Jr.; Anderson, BEYA 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award Honoree and Chairman and CEO Tag Holdings; Alicia Boler Davis, BEYA’s 2018 Black Engineer of the Year and Executive Vice President, Global Manufacturing General Motors; Fitzgerald Davis, Alicia’s Boler Davis’s Husband; Jean Hamilton President and CFO, Career Communications Group, Inc.; and Tyrone D. Taborn, Chairman and CEO, Career Communications Group, Inc.

February 14-20, 2018 • michiganchronicle.com • Page B-5

City of Detroit sees first gain in assessed residential property values in 17 years Housing values are on the rise in Detroit for the first time in 17 years. According to the City of Detroit, the increase in home values is an indication that Detroit property values are increasing as the city’s revitalization continues and spreads.

For years, the Office of the Assessor had reduced assessments across the city to reflect the loss in value of properties in Detroit. In 2008, for example, the cumulative assessed value of all residential properties in the city was $8.8 billion. Last year that number was $2.8 billion. This year, the assessed value of the city’s 263,000 residential properties was up slightly to $3 billion.

HAP volunteers help people in developing countries receive medical supplies Two dozen HAP employees packed and sorted medical supplies for the World Medical Relief organization last week to help the organization send medical, dental and pharmaceutical items to developing countries. HAP has been a Detroit leader for more than 50 years. In this timeframe, HAP has partnered with leading doctors, hospitals and community organizations to enhance

the health and well-being of the lives of local communities and beyond

tical, feasible ways to reduce any barriers to good health and wellness.”

“Collaboration between corporations and groups like World Medical Relief can transform lives and improve the well-being of entire communities,” said Tom Spring, director of wellness and community programs for HAP. “By working together, we can identify prac-

HAP believes in giving back to the community. In 2017, HAP employees volunteered at 17 organizations for a total 1,951 hours at organizations such as Focus: HOPE and Capuchin Soup Kitchen. HAP employees assisting the World Medical Relief organization is

just one example of volunteer efforts planned for 2018.

The World Medical Relief organization began in 1953 to collect and distribute recycled medical and dental equipment, medical supplies, laboratory instruments and medicines to developing nations. In 2017, its volunteer program utilized the services of 2,145 volunteers who contributed more than 13,318 hours of their time.

Agape Jurisdiction Ministers’ and Workers’ meeting to convene Feb. 23-25 The annual Ministers’ And Workers’ Meeting of the Southwest Michigan Agape Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction Church Of God In Christ will convene Friday, Feb. 23, 10:45, with its morning Women’s Day services. Supervisor Loretta Hogan Whitsett will lead the women in prayer, workshops and worship services.

Friday evening at 7 pm, a powerful worship and evangelistic service will start, as the jurisdictional prelate, Bishop Isaac King Jr. and all the delegates of Agape convene at its headquarters located at 30101 Parkwood Street in Inkster. The evening worship speaker will be Pastor Kenneth Jenkins, of Redemptive

the Youth of Agape will be featured in ministry. The evening speaker will be Pastor Gerald Pruitt of Inspirational COGIC. Official Day is Sunday, Feb. 25. This service will commence at 4 pm. at Greater Seth Temple COGIC, located at 28125 Grand River Ave., Farmington Hills.

Bishop Isaac King, Jr. will deliver his Christ centered message on “The Church Seasoning The World.” (Matthew 5:13-16)

Bishop Isaac King, Jr.

Sup. Loretta Hogan Whitsett

Love COGIC. Saturday, Feb. 24, 10 am, will start with a multi-class Sunday School session. The

Pastors and Elders Council starts at 12 pm with special guest Apostle Lennel Caldwell. At 7 pm on Saturday,

The pre-musical precedes the meeting on Sunday, Feb. 18, at 4 pm at Pentecostal Temple COGIC 30101 Parkwood, Inkster.

For additional information call 734 722-3060.

Meanwhile, the city’s commercial properties continued a steady increase in value to nearly $3 billion, while the value of industrial properties recovered from a drop last year, rising from $314 million to $513 million.

In late January, the Office of the Assessor mailed out notices to residential property owners, advising them of their proposed assessments for 2018. These are not tax bills. Actual bills will be mailed out in June and payments are due August 15.

Detroit’s Deputy CFO- Assessor, Alvin Horhn said the change in taxes will be minimal. An owner of a home with an assessed value at $100,000, on average, might expect to see an increase in their taxes this year of about $67.

Mayor Mike Duggan pointed to the increase as a tangible example of the city’s ongoing recovery, which includes a significant rise in residential property values in most areas of the city, based on actual sales data.

“This is another sign of progress, but we still have a long way to go in rebuilding our property values,” said Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan. “The fact that we have halted such a long, steep decline is a significant milestone. This also corresponds with the significant increase in home sale prices we have seen in neighborhoods across the city.”

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B6

| February 14-20, 2018

Game.

michiganchronicle.com

Pistons honor Real Times Media CEO Hiram Jackson

By Curtrise Gardener The Detroit Pistons brought more to the city of Detroit than their team. They also brought several attributes, including hard work, dedication and the push to win.

Reak Times Media CEO and Michigan Chronicle publisher Hiram E. Jackson recives honors from Pistons for his service to citizens of Detroit and communites. – PHOTO: Montez Miller

Those same attributes are the reason the Detroit Pistons honored Hiram E. Jackson, CEO of Real Times Media and publisher of the Michigan Chronicle. Jackson was honored on Friday, Feb. 9, for his commitment to journalism and the Detroit community, the telling of the African American story and his vision for moving Real Times Media forward. The Detroit Pistons are recognizing several prestigious African Americans at a Detroit Pistons games during the month of February in celebration of Black History Month.

Chargers CB Desmond King has jersey retired at East English Village Prep

By Branden Hunter Growing up, current Los Angeles Chargers safety Desmond King lived on Detroit’s far west side. In fact, he could see Cody High School from his mother Yvette Powell’s front porch. He could have played football for the Comets but chose to make the long trek each day across town to Crockett High School to play for head coach Rod Oden.

Crockett closed in 2012 just before his senior year and was converted to East English Village Prep, even further from King’s home. And each day, he made it to school for class and football practice.

That sacrifice and devotion paid off, with EEVP retiring his No. 20 football jersey.

The first in the school’s short history.

“It’s an honor and a blessing to be in this position,” said King. “I gave blood, sweat, and tears for this football program, Crockett and East English.

We’re all one big family. It’s an honor to be the first one with my jersey hanging in the hallways.

“This just shows all the hard work that I put in while I was here, being one of the first to graduate from here as well. It shows all the little things that I do on a daily to try and make my life perfect.”

King only played one year at EEVP, but it was a historic one. He had over 2,000 yards from scrimmage, which is a Bulldogs record, is the state’s single-season leader in interceptions with 10, and set the state record with 29 career interceptions. For that, he earned all-city and allstate honors in 2013.

Despite all of his outstanding high school accolades, King was not highly recruited. Michigan, nor Michigan State wanted him. He had a few Mid-American Conference scholarship offers, but nothing from the high major programs. Most coaches said he was too small and too slow.

But Iowa came in two weeks before he was set to sign his letter of intent to offer him.

King chose to play for the Hawkeyes where he had a great career. He made the All-Big-Ten team twice, was an All-American twice and won the Jim Thorpe award for the nation’s top defensive back in 2015. He went from others doubting him, to make himself a legitimate NFL prospect.

“I have to thank coach Oden for giving me the opportunity to come to the high school and play football here,” said King. “I’ve been doubted all my life but I remember him my other coaches at Crockett believing me and wanting me to play for them. I turned that opportunity into bigger opportunities and I never listened to what people said I couldn’t do.”

King was drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers in the 5th round of the 2017 NFL Draft, recording 76 tackles and one interception as a rookie. He is one of three players who played for Oden in high school that are currently in the NFL. The others are Miami Dolphins cornerback Tony Lippett and Super Bowl champion Brandon Graham of the Philadelphia Eagles.

Oden saw King’s growth from a small little leaguer wanted to play for him, to have more doubt placed on him in high school and college, to now being one of the best rookie defensive backs in the pro ranks. Not only that, he also saw King grow as a student and a man.

“It wasn’t always easy with Desmond when I had him,” said Oden. “Sometimes we had to bring him out of the dark. He used to wander sometimes. But there was never any doubt in my mind that he could be successful. We were a family over at Crockett and in 2012, he helped bring that same mentality to East English Village when we combined with two other schools. No one else deserves to wear No. 20 again here.”

Kay Felder playing for the Detroit Pistons against the Portland Trailblazers on Monday Feb. 5.

Kay Felder

suits up for hometown Detroit Pistons

By Branden Hunter

W

hen you walk into the Detroit Pistons’ locker room, the locker to the far right belongs to Kay Felder, with the No. 22 next to his name. A number once worn by NBA champion Tayshuan Prince.

Felder first suited up for the Pistons in a home blowout against the Portland Trailblazers. He was born and raised in Detroit, playing high school ball at Pershing High School, just a few miles away from Little Caesars Arena.

To be able to play in the NBA is one accomplishment. To be able to play for your hometown team is a feat only a few can say they had the opportunity to do. If your name is LeBron James or Derrick Rose.

“It was a surreal moment for me,” said Felder. “I grew up watching the Pistons play and I always wanted to play for them. I remember when they won the NBA title in 2004, which was huge for the city. So to be able to put on the jersey of my hometown team felt like a dream.”

Felder only played a few minutes versus Portland, grabbing one rebound, with one turnover, and missing his only two shot attempts.

But the moment was far more important. He has played in front of family and friends at sold-out gyms at Pershing and Oakland University. But playing for the Pistons and having your family and friends there to share the opportunity with you is something he would never have imagined growing up.

“I’ll never forget this moment of my profes-

sional career,” said Felder. “Playing in Cleveland and Chicago was great but to play for Detroit is a dream. I had a Pistons jersey when I was younger and now I have one with my own name on it. Not everyone can say that where I come from.”

Pistons head coach and President of Basketball Operations Stan Van Gundy shared the same sentiments. He understood how important the moment was for Felder, playing in front of the home crowd in Detroit. The game against Portland was out of reach, so it was the perfect time to allow Felder to hit the floor for the Pistons for the first time. Detroit signed Felder to a two-way contract in early January.

“Obviously, he was a crowd favorite that night,” said Van Gundy. “We like Kay and the entire team thought that was a cool moment to see him put on a Pistons jersey. He probably wished he would have made that three-pointer he missed but I could tell he was just happy to even be out there for us.”

Felder was sent back to Grand Rapids to play for the team’s G-League team but relished the opportunity he had to put on a Pistons jersey and hopes there will be more chances. But if not, at least he can say he once played for the Detroit Pistons.

“I’m going to frame all the pictures of myself in a Pistons uniform and my jersey,” said Felder. “Everyone was happy for me when I was signed and even happier when I actually touched the floor. If I can get a bigger role with the team in the near future, my dream would really be fulfilled. If not, I’m already living it.”

February 14-20, 2018 • michiganchronicle.com • Page B-7

Upcoming Events FEBRUARY

16

23

Marion Hayden and the Middle Passage Exiles: ‘Protest Jazz and the Roots of Hip Hop’

Black History Month Family Night at St. Philip’s Ev. Lutheran Church of Detroit In celebration of Black History Month and bringing families together this year, Ken Coleman, author of “On This Day: ­African-American Life in Detroit” and “Million Dollars Worth Of Nerve” will speak at St. Philip’s Ev. Lutheran Church of Detroit, 2884 East Grand Blvd., Detroit, 5:30–7:30 pm.He will tell us about the history of Detroit including Black Bottom and Paradise Valley. No charge.

Protest music has been used as a critical response in the African American community, but especially during the tumultuous years preceding and following the 1967 rebellion in Detroit. Bassist Marion Hayden and

her Middle Passage Exiles Band present “Protest: Jazz and the Roots of Hip Hop” in commemoration of Detroit 1967. The performance features a 12-piece musical ensemble, dancers, poetry by Melba Joyce Boyd and spoken word artist Mahogany Jones.

Performances at 7 and 8:30 p.m. Detroit Institute of Arts, Rivera Court, 5200 Woodward Ave, Detroit. No charge.

17

21

Join Dr. Clayborne Carson, Ph.D., professor of history at Stanford University, director of the Martin Luther King Jr., Research and Education Institute and editor of “The Autobiography of Martin Luther King, Jr.” as he explores inner life and global vision of this human rights icon. Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, 315 E Warren Ave., Detroit, 6-8 pm.

The Pontiac Creative Art Center celebrates Black History Month The Pontiac Creative Arts Center (PCAC) invites the public to celebrate Black History Month on Saturday, Feb. 17, 5-8 pm with spoken word, poetry, drumming, singing, dancing and more. This free event is in conjunction with Tina Randle, a Michigan poet, singer, and songwriter.

Tina Randle Starting at 5 pm, guests may meet visual artist Steven Paul Jones and view his artwork.

Stage performances will take place from 6 to 8 pm. African American performers include Tina Randle, Rae Love, Ashley Moss, John Valiant, Mikhaella Norwood and Sean Preston.

30-75% OFF STOREWIDE

American Prophet: The Inner Life & Global Vision of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

22

‘Jazz on the Streets of Old Detroit’ Jazz guitarist Dennis Coffey performs “Jazz on the Streets of Old Detroit” at the Detroit Historical Museum. This event continues a quarterly music series hosted by the Black Historic Sites Committee. Light refreshments are included in the ticket price of $15 in advance or $20 at the door.

Tickets can also be purchased by phone at 313.833.0277. 5401 Woodward Ave., ­Detroit, 6-9 pm.

24

Black History Jazz with A. Spencer Barefield Sextet

All Month

Warrior Medicine Turning Points: The Extraordinary Journey of African-American Men and Women in Detroit.

This tribute to jazz giants features an ensemble of extraordinary musicians of multiple generations who will perform innovative and legendary works of jazz from bebop to avant-garde and beyond, from the 20th Century to the present: A. Spencer Barefield on guitar, Ian Finkelstein on piano, Marcus Elliot and Rafael Statin on saxophones, Jeff Pedraz on bass and Sean Dobbins on drums. Palmer Woods Music in Homes, 19550 Argyle Cres, Detroit, 8 pm.

Celebrate the important role of A ­ fricanAmericans in the school’s 150-year history.

The exhibit, open to the public, will be displayed in the library’s common areas throughout the month of February.

Wayne State University’s Shiffman Medical Library - 320 E. Canfield St.

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Page B-8 • michiganchronicle.com • February 14-20, 2018

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Reflections

By Steve Holsey

Too much honesty?

Music master and icon Quincy Jones says all he has ever done is tell the truth. But lately he has been shockingly forthright (not to mention profane). Most likely you’ve heard about this. Check it out for yourself: Go to “Quincy Jones Vulture Interview” and “Quincy Jones GQ Interview.”

Among hundreds of other things, Jones says Michael Jackson never Quincy Jones had vitiligo and Michael’s chimpanzee once bit Jones’ daughter; Marlon Brando would “f--- anything” and was even intimate with Richard Pryor (whose wife confirmed it) and Marvin Gaye... ...that most of today’s “lazy and greedy” music producers are severely lacking in knowledge and “don’t even care they done have it”; Cyndi Lauper caused a lot of problems during the recording of “We are the World”; Prince, in a limousine, once tried to run over Michael Jackson; and “the Catholics have a religion based on fear, smoke and murder.”

And that is just the tip of the iceberg!

RAVEN-SYMONE seems to generate controversy and spark backlashes with the frequency of Omarosa and Kanye West.

Such as, most recently, as you’ve heard, identifying rap stars such as Jay-Z and T.I. as being “so-called black men who became rich and famous through Raven-Symone perpetuating the worst black stereotypes to the ears and eyes of the entire planet.”

By AJ Williams Valentine’s Day is here and it’s one of my favorite times of the year. It’s the day of LOVE. No matter whether or not you believe it’s a Hallmark holiday, who can turn their nose at celebrating LOVE. Yes, LOVE in every form and for every relationship status.

Despite what the masses say, V-Day is not just for the married squad.

Single? Renew: Flirting, first dates, and dating apps can leave you exhausted and maybe even disheartened when it comes to love. So instead of downing the pints of ice cream (or pints of Hennessy if you’re anything like me) shake off the negative vibe, cleanse out your heart chakra and show yourself some love with an evening of self-care at “Reasons to Love.”

Presented by Tealing and Co., “Reasons to Love” is a sensory experience designed to open the heart to self-love through tea + yoga. For information, visit http://bit.ly/tealingco

She has a right to her opinions — and often they have elements of validity — but there are times when it is advantageous to keep opinions to self, even more so for those in the public eye.

Dating? Refine: Have you ever heard the theory that you should live with someone before you decide to leap into marrying them? The same theory can be applied to dating. If you are dating someone but haven’t taken the next step to be exclusive, Valentine’s Day may be just the day to test if your relationship is ready for the next level.

But how can you measure this deeply in a short period of time?

I can’t get over there being a criminal investigation going on regarding Brenda Edwards, widow of the late Dennis Edwards. As has been well publicized, she is accused of badly abusing him when he was bedridden with meningitis.

#OutOfTownTrip. Yes, out of town trips are a great way to see your possible #CommitmentBae in a mini live-in situation.

The trip doesn’t have to be a week vacation, but a weekend trip can be a good insight into compatibility, decision making and lifestyle.

EVEN THOUGH in life he had some “issues” with Prince, all baseless, Justin Timberlake nevertheless did a tribute to Prince during his Super Bowl halftime performance.

Timberlake, no doubt, felt it was appropriate since Justin Timberlake he was in Prince’s hometown, Minneapolis. (I like Timberlake, but it was in poor taste to sing “I Would Die 4 U.”)

Married? Reignite: Sometimes the bump and grind of life can suck the soul out of a marriage. Kids, bills and errands without taking time to reignite can lead to the

See LOVE Page C-2

Despite the controversy, Prince’s sister, Tyka Nelson, said she was “pleasantly surprised” and continued, “Everyone has their own idea of what Prince would have wanted, (making it) an impossible position for Justin.”

A LADY named Patricia Lynn, who might be described as a music connoisseur, had words of praise and a great assessment of the incredible and still unequaled Luther Vandross.

She wrote, “Luther Vandross was another one of those unique Luther Vandross and spectacular voices, the likes of which did not exist before and has not come along since.

Some singers have such a distinctive sound that absolutely no one has any similarity to it.”

See Reflections Page C-2

Welcome to the new bar scene

By AJ Williams

We’ve all been there, five vodkas and the next morning, you wake up with a hangover, bloating and in a guilt fest all from a night out at the bar.

Yes, it was all great at the moment, but now shame has kicked in, and you realized if you are going to be a barhopper, you have got to find a new place to hang.

Insert praise dance because the following bars are guaranteed to make you feel great, less the calories and drunken texts.

The TEN Nail Bar: Get your mani and pedi fix and indulge yourself in the ambiance that is the TEN Nail See NEW BAR SCENE Page C-2

Page D-2 • michiganchronicle.com • February 14-20, 2018

New Bar Scene

ty shop? Then look no further than Socialite Beauty Bar. Get your mane tamed and face beat at the same time.

Bar. With a full list of services to meet the most impeccable taste, sit back and relax while you are served your choice of coffee, tea and for those who need the “hair of the dog,” champagne, wine or bellini.

191 N. Old Woodward Ave. #100, Birmingham, MI 48009

From page C-1

1215 Griswold Street, Capitol Park, Detroit, MI, 48226 | www.thetendetroit.com

#BeScene Featured Event:

Detroit Restaurant Week

Detroit Restaurant Week is a 10-day celebration of the City’s bustling dining culture. The 2018 edition takes place on Friday, February 16th through Sunday, February 25th.

Check out the best of the city’s bustling dining culture, featuring three-course dinners at $29 per person or $39 per person.

Grey Ghost, La Dolce Vita, Central Kitchen, 24 Grille and more! For a complete listing of restaurants and menus visit www.detroitrestaurantweek.com

Love

Grab a suite, then head to dinner at the top of the city to enjoy the panoramic view at Iridescence restaurant.

From page C-1 road of a spouse becoming your roommate. You can’t ditch responsibility, but you can take a break from it to reconnect with the love of your life on Valentine’s Day. Typically, being married means time is of the essence, so get carried away with a staycation at Motor City Casino.

After a decadent meal, allow Babyface to swoon you away and set the mood right at Motor City Sound Board on Feb. 15. Trust me, you will thank me in the morning.

For information on room prices or to purchase tickets to Babyface, visit www. motorcitycasino.com.

The Lip Bar: Ready, set, LIP. Touting being made from vegan cruelty-free ingredients, indulge your lips in the Lip Bar’s outrageous colors. From sweet and dainty to raw and daring, there’s a color to fit every personality. Try City.Life.Style’s favorite Lip Bar color in Rebel.

8019 Agnes St. Detroit, MI 48214 | www. thelipbar.com Socialite Beauty Bar: Long hair don’t care, short hair any day on a dare. Need that all-inclusive look from a one-stop beau

Reflections From page C-1

Even though the charges were made in 2016, Afrika Bambaata (real name: Kevin Donovan), from the world of hip-hop, is still dealing with the ramifications of having four men charge him with sexual misconduct when they were teens. One of them was now 52-year-old Ronald Savage, a former New York State Democratic Committee member.

There were no sex criminal charges or civil penalties because of New York’s Statute of Limitations. Savage said it took him so long to come forward because he was “embarrassed and ashamed.” He didn’t want to have Donovan jailed or anything; he just wants that Statute of Limitations changed.

Afrika Bambaata & the Soul Sonic Force had the exciting hit “Planet Rock” in 1982, followed by “Looking for the Perfect Beat.”

There is a lot of talk going around about Gladys Knight’s “new look.”

Detroit Blows Dry Blow Bar: Sometimes a girl just needs to “Blow” off some steam, and you can do that and more at Detroit Blows Dry Blow Bar. Not only can you get a blow to go, you can also indulge in several other services, including a full conditioning treatment with a scalp massage.

1232 Library Street, Detroit, MI 48226 | www.detroitblows.com The Brow Bottega Brow Bar: The brows have it. Any makeupnista (yes, it’s a real word, we just made it up) knows that the foundation of a good slayed face starts with your eyebrows and at Brow Bottega, they take that responsibility seriously.

8325 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit, MI 48214 | www.the browbottega.com

Hey, nothing wrong with a little nip and tuck for those who are so inclined, and can afford it.

Suddenly, Gladys looks younger than her 73 years.

(Whitney Houston), “(Just Like) Romeo & Juliet” (the Reflections), “Lookin’ for a Love” (Bobby Womack), “Pop Life” (Prince and the Revolution.”

BETCHA DIDN’T KNOW...that Patti Austin’s godmother was the legendary Dinah Washington and her godfather is the great Quincy Jones.

BLESSINGS to Andre Smith, Derek Thornton, Rosalind Ashford, Joe Billingslea, Michael J. Powell, Annette Helton, Kelvyn Ventour and Marcus Amick.

MEMORIES: “When She Was My Girl” (the Four Tops), “Jam Tonight” (Freddie Jackson), “Tell it Like It Is” (Aaron Neville), “I Don’t Love You Anymore” (Teddy Pendergrass), “Spend My Life With You” (Eric Benét), “I Wish It Would Rain” (the Temptations), “How Will I Know”

WORDS OF THE WEEK, from Alan Cohen: “If something brings you pleasure, that is good enough.”

Let the music play!

Steve Holsey can be reached at svh517@aol. com, navets517@gmail. com and PO Box 02843, Detroit, MI 48202.

at the SENATE THEATER

sat 4pm sat 8pm fri 8pm

purchase tickets at senatetheater.com

6424 Michigan Ave, Detroit

fri & Sat Feb 15 & 16

Enjoy Breakfast with nearly 400 Policy and Decision-makers

March 8, April 12, May 24, June 7 Detroit Athletic Club

241 Madison Avenue, Detroit, MI 48226 Presented by:

Individual Tickets: $100

For Sponsorship Call 313-963-8100

Join the conversation #PancakesandPolitics18

UAW-FORD’s

Section C-3

February 14-20, 2018

Shining light on positivity: Boys Theater of Detroit Ready for a world stage: Boys Theater of Detroit members have done extraordinary things including performing on Broadway and being a part of a TV sitcom cast.

Even more important, all of the young men are prepared for future success through a program rooted in literacy, leadership, art and culture.

Education, self-belief are championship principles says Earl ‘The Twirl’

Guided by Oliver Pookrum, young men live up to the hopes of their community

By Scott Talley Special to the Michigan Chronicle “I am an invisible man. No I am not a spook like those who haunted Edgar Allen Poe: Nor am I one of your Hollywood movie ectoplasms. I am a man of substance, of flesh and bone, fiber and liquids - and I might even be said to possess a mind. I am invisible, simply because people refuse to see me.” …Ralph Ellison Just as the great Ralph Ellison demonstrated through his enduring classic novel “Invisible Man,” the African American artist has been entrusted with the important task of shining light on the humanity of undervalued people so that African Americans and our entire society can see the full beauty of our world in living color.

Continuing our community’s celebration of Black History Month, the “Best of Young Detroit” proudly calls attention to the Boys Theater of Detroit founded by our friend, Mr. Oliver Pookrum. A talented actor, writer, director and producer, Mr. Pookrum is a longtime advocate for African American theater and he has a great admiration for the legacy of Detroit’s African American artists and what they have meant to our city.

“Detroit’s African American arts community is the richness of our city,” said Mr. Pookrum, who uses the Boys Theater of Detroit to nurture and develop young men in our community.

“From Motown to Aretha Franklin, Anita Baker, the Brazeal Dennard Chorale and the Boys Theater of Detroit, there’s very little in Detroit that truly matters that is not heavily connected to our African-American arts community.”

As Mr. Pookrum has shared with the “Best of Young Detroit” in the past, “the mission of the Boys Theater of Detroit is to use

theater and performing arts to inspire, educate and support developing young men with a variety of experiences and skills to lead a life of confidence, character, compassion and courage.” When the “Best of Young Detroit” last reported on the Boys Theater of Detroit, the young men had just returned from an amazing summer trip to New York made possible by UAW-Ford. Since then, the enrichment opportunities for the boys have continued through a series of workshops that are a part of “Saturday Schoolhouse in the D” programs that also are supported by UAW-Ford.

“We teach the boys public speaking, leadership and life skills, like tie tying and speech articulation,” said Pookrum of the workshops that take place at Detroit Collegiate Prep at Northwestern High School. “We also use theater games and other fun physical exercises to keep them engaged and interested.”

The artistic talents of the young men in the Boys Theater of Detroit were on display just a few days before the start of Black History Month during a community birthday celebration for UAW Vice President Jimmy Settles. During the event the young men delivered a stirring tribute to Mr. Settles and UAWFord acknowledging their ongoing support and belief in Detroit youth.

The boys’ superb oration touched everyone in attendance including a proud Mr. Pookrum, who had to fight back tears afterwards.

“It was Mr. Settles’ decision to allocate money to begin the Boys Theater that made the Boys Theater of Detroit possible and BTD has worked diligently to do the best we can to justify his investment,” said Mr. Pookrum, who has focused his organization around the principles of literacy, leadership, art and culture. “I think it’s very emotional for him and us to witness a group of young people working hard to live up to the hopes and expectations of their family members and community.”

Standing at six feet, nine inches tall, Earl Cureton is literally a sizeable part of Detroit’s basketball lore. Fans that go quite a ways back, can remember Cureton during his days at Finney High School during the 1970s.

Even more longtime fans will remember Earl “The Twirl” playing for the University of Detroit.

Afterwards, Cureton would play 12 seasons in the National Basketball Earl Cureton (left) with videograAssociation, which pher extraordinaire Tony Austin. included being a part of two championship teams (1982-83 Philadelphia 76ers and 1993-94 Houston Rockets).

The “Best of Young Detroit” was honored to meet Mr. Cureton this past summer at Bert’s Marketplace in Eastern Market. It was an opportunity to thank the current Detroit Pistons community ambassador for representing our city in exemplary fashion, both during and after his playing days.

The moment with Mr. Cureton occurred just before he was interviewed by our friend, Mike “Tiger” Price, on behalf of the Detroit Sport’s Zone’s Detroit High School Hall of Fame.

Following are a few golden nuggets of wisdom shared during the interview: What advice can you give to young people on how to prepare for their future?

Earl Cureton: “First of all it’s hard work; it’s dedication…

Making the right decisions is another key factor. Nowadays there are a lot of opportunities to do some positive things.

In my time growing up they didn’t have a STEM program.

I always encourage young kids not to put all your eggs in one basket. There is more to life than just basketball and entertainment. In fact, sports only last a short period of time.

My (basketball) career ended at 36-37 years old and you still have a whole life in front of you…If you get a college degree within that STEM program, which is Science, Engineering, Technology—any of those areas within STEM—you can go right from those fields out of college making $75,000$100,000 a year. And once you have that college degree that is something you will have for the rest of your life.”

What are some of your insights on goal setting?

Earl Cureton: “I base everything on hard work…Believing in yourself is another thing I always tell kids; regardless of nobody believing in you, you have to believe in yourself first and foremost. Anything in this world is possible if you apply yourself and put the hard work into it…”

UAW-Ford’s Best of Young Detroit

February 14-20, 2018 Page C-4

Student Voices This week’s contributors make a passionate case for equality everywhere!

For this installment of “Student Voices,” we once again call upon our impressive youth members at Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church. This week, we are proud to introduce two more fifth graders—Caila and Derin Tavolette. They may be young, but Caila and Derin sound quite wise while making a strong case for equality in schools and society.

Caila Tavolette, 5th grader, Beech Elementary School: “I think that every school should have after-school activities because everyone should be able to have fun and exercise so they can be strong.

I also think that in Caila Tavolette school everyone should eat healthy so that students are not eating junk food. Another thing is that all school suspensions

should be fair because someone could get suspended for something that someone else could have done, and the person suspended for someone else’s acts can get in trouble.”

Derin Tavolette, 5th grader, Beech Elementar y School: “I think that all children should be treated equally and that includes in education, because it is very important that all children learn. I also think that police officers should not Derin Tavolette target black men, because some people still don’t treat all people the same. And one more thing, everyone should be allowed everywhere. When people don’t let people in homes, that leaves people homeless and with no food or water.

My conclusion is that everybody should be treated equally.”

This

Week in PSL

2017

BIG “D” VARSITY GIRLS TOURNAMENT Championship Game Friday, February 16, 5 p.m.

At Calihan Hall on the campus of the University of Detroit Mercy Mumford vs. Renaissance

BIG “D” VARSITY BOYS TOURNAMENT Championship Game Friday, February 16, 7:30 p.m.

At Calihan Hall on the campus of the University of Detroit Mercy Edison Public School Academy or Renaissance vs. Pershing or King (Please note that semifinal games in the Big “D” Varsity Boys Tournament were being played as this section was going to press.)

“Best of Young Detroit” Coach Elbert Richmond created many championship life moments The date was Feb. 24, Public Schools System upon 1984 and before the night was graduating from Wayne in over, Detroit Mackenzie high 1954, and would later earn school was the Detroit Public a master’s degree in special School League Boys Basketball education from the University champion for the first time. of Michigan. Coach Richmond The Stags earned the title after taught and guided athletic defeating Denby, 66-56, in front teams at multiple Detroit high of more than 5,000 passionate schools, including Cass Tech, PSL basketball fans at Cobo Northwestern, Kettering and Arena. And the architect of the Mackenzie. As a head football victory was a truly great coach coach at Mackenzie from 1969 and gentleman—Mr. Elbert to 1971, he won either a PSL Richmond.

Stags still stand tall: or state district titles all three On that evening, Coach During a Hall of Fame seasons. Coach Richmond Richmond guided a determined career, Mr. Elbert Rich- took over Mackenzie’s boys group of young men that had mond performed much basketball team in 1972 and upset Southwestern High School of his good work at by the time he retired in 1993, in the semifinals to advance to Mackenzie High School. his teams posted a stellar the championship game. Some 339-123 record en route to of Coach Richmond’s standouts on that Feb. winning eight division championships, three 24 evening included the high scorer Duane West Side titles, eight district titles, four Marcelis (22 points), the only senior in the regional titles and a Michigan Class A State lineup that night; five-foot-eight point guard Championship in 1979, to go along with the Derrick Richmond, who skillfully navigated before mentioned PSL crown in 1984. past Denby’s pressure defense; and, Mario Coach Richmond is an extremely Pearson, a tenacious rebounder. deserving member of the Wayne State The victory was one of many athletic- University Athletic Hall of Fame, the related accomplishments for Coach Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan Richmond, a graduate of Eastern High Hall of Fame and the Detroit Sports Zone’s School, who earned three letters (1950-52) Detroit High School Hall of Fame. Many of in football at Wayne University. A halfback the young men he coached went on to play on the football field, Richmond set or tied 17 sports at a higher level, and all of the young career, season, and individual-game records men and women he came into contact with at Wayne. He also played guard and forward in Detroit schools were all the better for the on Wayne’s basketball team (1949-50). experience, and that is why Coach Elbert An outstanding athlete, Richmond Richmond should always be celebrated in would turn out to be an even better leader our community. of young people. He entered the Detroit

Team registration continues for spring Legends League season Snow may be on the ground now but it will not be here forever, and waiting just around the corner is the start of the 2018 Legends League Baseball spring season. Supported by UAW-Ford, Legends League Baseball provides affordable baseball to Detroit-area youth and families of Detroit-area youth, while focusing on baseball skill and character development.

Legends League Baseball director Garrett Street has informed the “Best of Young Detroit” that team spots are still available for the Legends League spring season, which will begin in April and run through mid June. March 15 is the cut-off for team registration. The

team registration fee is $125, outside of the registration fees paid by teams, there are no additional fees accessed to families that have youth participating in Legends League Baseball. Coaches with formed teams, as well as interested parents, can contact Street about this spring’s Legends Leagues Baseball season at 313-363-7271.

Legends League Baseball games are played on well maintained fields in our community, including two state-of-the-art venues: the UAW-Ford Balduck Main Field and William Clay Ford Field. Following is a listing of the Legend League teams that are already slated to participate this spring:

8 and Under 1. Defenders Falcons 2. Detroit Braves 3. Detroit Playmakers 4. Southfield A’s

12 and Under 1. Defenders Heavy Hitters 2. Detroit Stars 3. Detroit Yankees 4. Indians Baseball Club 5. Motor City Royals 6. Southfield Cardinals 7. Southwest Aztecs 8. Windsor Stars 9. YMCA Tigers

10 and Under 1. Defenders Patriots 2. Detroit Braves 3. Detroit Yankees 4. Full Count Kings 5. Indians Baseball Club 6. Michigan Seminoles 7. Southwest Aztecs 8. Windsor Stars

Following are some of the top performers in recent high school basketball games involving teams in the Detroit Public School League.

BOYS Jalyn Benning, Pershing, registered 13 rebounds, 10 points and three blocked shots in a 50-44 PSL quarterfinal victory against Henry Ford on Feb. 11.

Charles Brown, Pershing, registered 17 points and seven rebounds against Henry Ford on Feb. 11.

David DeJulius, East English Village, contributed 15 points and eight assists in a 66-65 PSL playoff quarterfinal defeat against Renaissance on Feb. 11.

Marcus Gibbs, King, scored 21 points in a 55-43 PSL quarterfinal victory against Western on Feb. 11.

Gerard Gibbs is proud to be a part of Detroit’s rich musical legacy Can a student sitting in a Detroit Public Schools Community District classroom today go on to become an internationally touring musician? Absolutely, and one of the special people our students can look to for inspiration is Gerard Gibbs, a 1985 graduate of Cass Tech. In his own words, Mr. Gibbs is a “jazz organist, keyboardist, and pianist born and raised in the beautiful city of Detroit, Michigan.” He has performed with a host of renowned musicians including saxophonists Marion Meadows, Ronnie Laws and James Carter during a 35-year musical journey. The “Best of Young Detroit” asked Mr. Gibbs how his education in Detroit Public Schools prepared him for success.

Following is what he had to say: “I’m very proud to be a product of the Detroit Public Schools System,” said Mr. Gibbs, who also leads his own keyboard jazz quartet and Hammond organ jazz trio. “From my beginnings at Vandenberg Elementary, to Beaubien Junior High and concluding with Cass Technical High School, they all

have played vital roles in my development not only as a former architectural engineer and an internationally touring musician, but also as a man.

“I had wonderfully patient and caring teachers who saw something unique and special in all their students. They all expected us to strive to achieve our goals and not let anything or anyone hold us back. I’m grateful that I came up at a time where music education was a requirement for graduation from elementary and middle schools. That requirement helped me to become a very well-rounded individual who later used that pianistic talent to earn a living.

I’m proud to join a long list of Detroiters who have made music their careers from Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross and Smokey Robinson to Ricky Lawson, Greg Phillinganes and Ray Parker Jr. Detroit has and will continue to produce a high volume of talented musicians for generations to come. I’m just proud and honored to be in the number.”

13-14 Intermediate 1. Detroit Stars 2. Mighty Warriors 3. Southwest Aztecs

Gary Solomon, Edison Public School Academy, registered 14 points and 10 rebounds against Cass on Feb. 11.

Chandler Turner, Renaissance, registered 18 points and 12 rebounds against East English Village on Feb. 11.

Deantae Ulmer, Henry Ford, scored 20 points against Pershing on Feb. 11.

GIRLS Diamond Cannon, King, contributed 13 points and six rebounds in a 63-44 PSL quarterfinal victory against Cody on Feb. 7.

Nikiya Cordell and Sapphire Dawson, Detroit Collegiate Prep at Northwestern, each contributed 10 points in a 49-28 PSL quarterfinal victory against Osborn on Feb. 7.

Z’Avon Godwin, East English Village, registered 16 points and 15 rebounds against Renaissance on Feb. 11.

Kailee Davis, Renaissance, scored 20 points in a 67-21 PSL quarterfinal victory against Communication & Media Arts on Feb. 7.

Ron Hill, Pershing, contributed 10 points and five assists against Henry Ford on Feb. 11.

Ajanee Horton, Detroit Collegiate Prep at Northwestern, scored 12 points against Osborn on Feb. 7.

LeTravian “Tray” Jackson, Western, scored 18 points against King on Feb. 11.

Jordan Lewis, King, registered 21 points, 10 rebounds and five assists against Cody on Feb. 7.

Deante Johnson, Edison Public School Academy, registered 16 points and 10 rebounds in a 59-51 PSL playoff quarterfinal victory against Cass on Feb. 11.

Ericka Smith, Detroit Collegiate Prep at Northwestern, contributed 11 points against Osborn on Feb. 7.

Carrington McCaskill, Renaissance, registered 16 points and eight rebounds against East English Village on Feb. 11.

Jordan Lewis, King, registered 21 points, 10 rebounds and five assists against Cody on Feb. 7.

Pierre Mitchell, Edison Public School Academy, scored 20 points against Cass on Feb. 11.

Del’Janae Williams, King, contributed 14 points and eight assists against Cody on Feb. 7.

Jalen Nix, East English Village, contributed 14 points against Renaissance on Feb. 11.

Mathew Richmond, Cass, scored 13 points against Edison Public School Academy on Feb. 11.

Anthony Roberts, Henry Ford, registered 18 points and three blocked shots against Pershing on Feb. 11.

Classified

February 14-20, 2018

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Page C-5

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

DETROIT EMPLOYMENT SOLUTIONS CORPORATION A Michigan Works! Agency, in cooperation with the MAYOR’S WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARD (MWDB)

REQUEST FOR QUOTE

MACDOWELL PREPARATORY ACADEMY

WASHINGTON-PARKS ACADEMY 11685 Appleton Redford, MI 48239 Phone: (313) 592-6061 http://cornerstoneeducationgroup.org/ Washington-Parks Academy, a Tuition Free Public School Academy, with an academic program for K-8 grade, announces the 2018-2019 enrollment period.

Open Enrollment: 02/15/18 through 05/18/18. A random selection lottery will be held on May 21st, 2018.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR Human Resources Information System (HRIS) Services On behalf of the Mayor’s Workforce Development Board (MWDB), Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (DESC) is seeking a qualified vendor to provide an integrated Payroll and Human Resources Information System (HRIS) for DESC. These services will be designed to meet the needs of DESC corporate human resources and management team.

DESC expects to award one (1) contract under this solicitation. The intended contract period is anticipated to be from March 5, 2018 through February 28, 2019. Based on performance, contingent upon the availability of funds, and at DESC’s sole discretion, contracts may be extended for up to two (2), one (1)-year Fiscal Years (FY 2019 and FY 2020).

All bid packages for this RFP will be sent via email. Bid packages will not be available for hardcopy pickup and will not be mailed by U.S. mail. Requests for the RFP package may be emailed to DESC at descprocurement@detempsol.org. In order to receive a RFP package, qualified vendors must submit the following information via email: company name, address, office phone number, fax number, contact person’s name, title, and valid email address.

Sealed bids must be received at DESC, 440 East Congress – Suite 400, Detroit, Michigan 48226, no later than February 26, 2018 at 3:00 P.M. A Public Recording is scheduled for February 26, 2018, 3:30 P.M., at the above-mentioned address. The bids will not be available for viewing. Each vendor is responsible for ensuring that its bid is received by DESC on a timely basis. Late bids will not be accepted.

Mayor’s Workforce Development Board Cynthia J. Pasky, Co-Chairperson David E. Meador, Co-Chairperson Jeffrey M. Donofrio, Executive Director Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation Board Laura A. Hughes, Chairperson Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation Nicole Sherard-Freeman, President and Chief Executive Officer

ATTENTION QUALIFIED CONTRACTORS

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is soliciting RFQ’s for Bus Washer Maintenance & Repair, Control No. 182470B. RFQ packages will be available February 12, 2018, at www.mitn.info.

RFQ’s are due Monday, February 19, 2018 by 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

4201 W. Outer Drive, Detroit, MI 48221

Applications for the 2018-19 school year for grades K-8 are being accepted from March 1 thru March 31, 2018. Should applications exceed available space a lottery will be held on April 13, 2018 at 5:00PM MPA. Applications are available in school or online at www.macdowellprep.com.

LINCOLN-KING ACADEMY 13436 Grove Street Detroit, MI 48235 Phone: (313) 862-2352 http://cornerstoneeducationgroup.org/ Lincoln-King Academy, a Tuition Free Public School Academy, with an academic program for K-8 grade, announces the 2018-2019 enrollment period.

Open Enrollment: 02/15/18 through 05/18/18. A random selection lottery will be held on May 21st, 2018.

Detroit Transportation Corporation NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING All Citizens are advised that the Detroit Transportation Corporation (DTC) has prepared an application for State of Michigan financial as¬sistance for fiscal year 2019 as required under Act 51 of the Public Acts of 1951, as amended, and for federal assistance as required under the federal transit laws, as amended. The DTC is requesting estimated total capital funding through the following sources: Section 5310 for DTC Accessibility and Equipment Upgrades and facility improvements totaling $500,000 (FTA amount of $400,000 and MDOT amount of $100,000). Section 5307totaling $500,000 (FTA amount of $400,000 and MDOT amount of $100,000).Section 5337 totaling $1,500,000 (FTA amount of $1,200,000 and MDOT amount of $300,000).

CORNERSTONE CHARTER HEALTH AND TECHNOLOGY SCHOOL 17351 Southfield Road Detroit, Michigan 48235 Phone: (313) 486-4260 http://cornerstoneeducationgroup.org/ Cornerstone Charter Health and Technology School, a Tuition Free Public School Academy, with an academic program for 9-12 grade, announces the 2018-2019 enrollment period.

Open Enrollment: 02/15/18 through 05/18/18. A random selection lottery will be held on May 21st, 2018.

Notice of these federal funds has been published previously in the Transportation Im-provement Plan (TIP) prepared by SEMCOG. The DTC ensures that the level and quality of transportation ser¬vice is provided without regard to race, color, or national origin in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. For more information regarding our Title VI obligations or to file a complaint, please contact the DTC at the address listed below.

The proposed application is on file at the DTC and may be re¬viewed from Thursday February 15, 2018 – Wednesday February 28, 2018 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

MADISON-CARVER ACADEMY 19900 McIntyre Street Detroit, MI 48219 Phone: (313) 486-4626 http://cornerstoneeducationgroup.org/ Madison-Carver Academy, a Tuition Free Public School Academy, with an academic program for K-8 grade, announces the 2018-2019 enrollment period.

Open Enrollment: 02/15/18 through 05/18/18. A random selection lottery will be held on May 21st, 2018.

Written comments or requests regarding the application and/or written requests for a public hearing to review the application must be received by Thursday March1, 2018. If a hearing is requested, no¬tice of the scheduled date, time and location will be provided at least ten (10) days in advance. Submittals should be sent to Mr. Oliver Lindsay, Grant Manager, Detroit Transportation Corporation, 535 Griswold Street, Suite 400, Detroit, MI 48226 or 313-5228445. Barring any changes made in response to the written comments, this document will become final.

CORNERSTONE JEFFERSONDOUGLASS ACADEMY 6861 E. Nevada , Detroit, MI 48234 Phone: (313) 892-1860 http://cornerstoneeducationgroup.org/ Cornerstone Jefferson-Douglass Academy, a Tuition Free Public School Academy, with an academic program for K-8 grade, announces the 2018-2019 enrollment period.

Open Enrollment: 02/15/18 through 05/18/18. A random selection lottery will be held on May 21st, 2018.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Jefferson East, Inc. is seeking qualified contractors to perform various renovations in its office located at 14300 E. Jefferson Ave, Detroit, MI 48215. Redevelopment includes exterior façade work; restoration of storefront, exterior windows, and brickwork as well as interior work which includes the build-out of office space and prep of future restaurant space. The contracts for the building exterior & building interior will be separate, but awarded to a single contractor due to funding requirements.

Contractors desiring to bid shall demonstrate the following qualifications: At least 5 years experience in their relative trade, licensed as required by state and/or local law.

Insurance: General Liability and Auto Liability with Jefferson East, Inc., and The City of Detroit named as Additional Insured. Workman’s compensation insurance is also required.

Digital bid packets will be available at: Jefferson East, Inc., 300 E. River Place, Suite 5250, Michigan 48207. Contact Derric Scott, Economic Development Director at (313) 314 -2674, or dscott@ jeffersoneast.org (e-mail preferred) with questions regarding project specifics as found in the bid packet.

A mandatory pre-bid meeting and examination of the premises will take place at the project site (14300 E. Jefferson Ave, Detroit, MI 48215) on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 @ 10:00 A.M. Sealed bids will be accepted until 3:00 p.m. on Friday, March 9th, 2018, at Jefferson East, Inc., 300 E. River Place, Suite 5250, Michigan 48207. No bids will be accepted after this time. All bids must be submitted by trade and line item.

All bids will be publicly opened on Monday, March 12th 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at Jefferson East, Inc., 300 E. River Place, Suite 5250, Michigan 48207. All interested parties are invited to attend. Jefferson East, Inc., will award a contract to the lowest, most responsive and responsible bidder – however, Jefferson East, Inc. reserves the right to waive any irregularity in any bid or to reject any or all bids should it be deemed for its best interest.

The contracts will be executed under the Neighborhood Opportunity Fund administered by the City of Detroit Housing and Revitalization Department, CDBG Initiatives Division. The successful contractor(s) will be required to comply with federal laws governing equal employment opportunity, with the prevailing wage requirements of the Federal Labor Standards Act, which also incorporates Davis-Bacon Act requirements; will have to be cleared and approved by the City of Detroit; and comply with:

PROJECT:

River Rouge Housing Commission 2016/2017 Capital Fund Program ROOFING (PITCHED)

OWNER:

River Rouge Housing Commission 180 Visger Road, River Rouge, MI. 48218

ARCHITECT:

ASC ARCHITECTS LLC P.O. Box 250059 Franklin, MI. 48025

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

RRHC Project: 001-004-(PITCHED) (ROOFING) The project consists of Siding replacement, fascia, soffit & gutters. Removal of all debris, damaged roof sheathing, downspouts & shingles Located at all sites Lenoir Ct., Kleinow, Beechwood, Polk, Goodell & Superior Court.

Walk- Through Date:

Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2018 at 10:30am

Location:

Bid Due Date:

February 28, 2018 @ 2:00 pm

INVITATION:

Sealed bids will be received by the River Rouge Housing Comm., & will be opened and read at the Owner Discretion.

Bid Proposals will Received at: River Rouge Housing Commission, 180 Visger Road, River Rouge, MI. 48218.

(313) 382-1414 office (313) 382-0228 fax.

BIDDING:

In order to receive consideration, make bids in strict accordance with the Project manual and include, what the Bid form, the following: a.Representations, Certifications, and Other statements of Bidders HUD-5369 A. b. Non-Collusive Affidavit c. Bid Bond d. Section 3 Implementation Plan

BIDDING DOCUMENTS:

Proposals shall be made according to the contract documents as Prepared by ASC ARCHITECTS LLC. ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Bidders are required to furnish a bid guarantee equal to (5%) of their bid. The Bid guarantee shall be in the form of either a bid bond or a certified check, made out to Jefferson East, Inc.

OWNER:

River Rouge Housing Commission 180 Visger Road, River Rouge, MI. 48218

ARCHITECT:

ASC ARCHITECTS LLC P.O. Box 250059 Franklin, MI. 48025

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

RRHC Project: 001-004-Exterior Siding The project consists of Siding replacement, fascia, soffit & guttersLocated at all sites Lenoir Ct., Kleinow, Beechwood, Polk, Goodell & Superior Court.

Walk- Through Date:

Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2018 at 10:30am

FEBRUARY IS BLACK HISTORY MONTH “My mission in life is not merely to survive and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.”

- Maya Angelau

(Detroit, MI) Based on input from Program Planning, Product Distribution and Supplier Management, establish assembly production plan, sequence and release production orders for assembly lines, including engines, axles and transmissions. Work in supporting systems for each product line – DIBS for engines, PTSI (SAP) for transmissions and SAP-­Axles for axles.

Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain, Industrial Eng or related + 1 year exp as Production Planning Engineer or related engineering position. Must have exp in determining root cause for downtime in production line, scheduling analysis during part shortage, Oracle, Access, Basic SAP, Excel, Macros, pivot table and VLOOKUP. Resumes to Tony Long, Daimler Trucks North America, 4555 N. Channel Ave., Portland, OR 97217. Include position reference #DDCS1 in response.

Submit To:

Lori D. Long, Executive Director

180 Visger Road, River Rouge, MI. 48218 $75.00 non-refundable fee for bids Payable to: RRHC

PROJECT:

The contractor will be required to comply with the federal government Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Section 3 Act (24 CFR Part 135). All contracts (subcontracts) shall include the “Section 3 Clause” found in the City of Detroit Section 3 Plan template.

The Section 3 program is administered by the Department of Civil Rights, Inclusion & Opportunity (CRIO). For information and questions, please contact CRIO directly via department web page on the City of Detroit website, email CRIOsection3@DetroitMi.gov, or phone 313-224-9515, program manager, Patricia Ford.

Market Planning Analyst -­ Assembly Scheduling

460 ½ Hyacinth Court River Rouge, MI. 48218

Executive Order No. 2016-1, which states, in part, that all City of Detroit project construction contracts shall provide that at least fifty-one percent (51%) of the workforce must be bona-fide Detroit residents.

The successful bidder is required to furnish payment (Labor and Materials) and performance bonds in the amount covering the faithful performance of the contract and the payment of all obligations arising thereunder, in the amount of 100% of their contracts, executed by a surety, which is licensed to do business in the State of Michigan.

PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED

River Rouge Housing Commission 2016/2017 Capital Fund Program EXTERIOR SIDING PROJECT

Location:

Bid Due Date:

460 ½ Hyacinth Court River Rouge, MI. 48218 February 28, 2018 @ 2:00 pm

Submit To:

Lori D. Long, Executive Director

180 Visger Road, River Rouge, MI. 48218 $75.00 non-refundable fee for bids Payable to: RRHC INVITATION:

Sealed bids will be received by the River Rouge Housing Comm., & will be opened and read at the Owner Discretion.

Bid Proposals will Received at: River Rouge Housing Commission, 180 Visger Road, River Rouge, MI. 48218.

(313) 382-1414 office (313) 382-0228 fax.

BIDDING:

In order to receive consideration, make bids in strict accordance with the Project manual and include, what the Bid form, the following: a. Representations, Certifications, and Other statements of Bidders HUD-5369 A. b. Non-Collusive Affidavit c. Bid Bond d. Section 3 Implementation Plan

BIDDING DOCUMENTS:

Proposals shall be made according to the contract documents as Prepared by ASC ARCHITECTS LLC

WWW.MICHIGANCHRONICLE.COM

Validation Engineer – OTA Remote Reflash Warren, MI, General Motors. Dvlp &execute test procedures to validate Over the Air (OTA) telematics &infotainment reqmts &functionalities &execute validation plans for subsystem at bench &vehicle levels. Engage Vehicle Validation Engineer, System Bench Leads to reserve &schedule appropriate vehicle &bench test properties, respectively to track &plan future OTA validation based on present &future ECU availability. Dvlp simulation models using Vector CANoe for testing &validation of ECUs for telematics &infotainment (incldg radio, instrument cluster (IC), &amplifier) features manual testing, &automated &semi-automated test script dvlpmt incldg component testing &system level testing on vehicle. Analyze the vehicle portfolio &associated interfacing subsystem electronic control unit rollout for IC, body control module (BCM), radio, electronic climate control &engine control module to dvlp a high-level test matrix that ensures that all vehicle &component combinations are tested.

Track hardware &software changes to telematics’ interfacing ECUs related to OTA. Use internal tools &Vector/Intrepid software such as CANoe &VehicleSpy to dvlp automation framework &automated test scripts to execute test procedures. Master, Electrical, Electronics, Mechanical, or Automotive Engrg. 6 mos exp as Engineer, dvlpg simulation models using Vector CANoe for testing &validation of ECUs for telematics &infotainment (incldg radio, IC, &amplifier) features manual testing, &test script dvlpmt incldg component testing &system level testing on vehicle. Mail resume to Ref#2823Q109, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

WWW.MICHIGANCHRONICLE.COM

FEBRUARY IS HEART DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH

Classified

February 14-20, 2018

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

ANNOUNCEMENTS ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS CITY OF HIGHLAND PARK, WAYNE COUNTY, MICHIGAN 2018 HYDRANT & SYSTEM VALVE REPLACEMENT PROGRAM

ANNOUNCEMENTS

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Application Period for Open Enrollment

GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

The Mannik & Smith Group, Inc. has available positions of Geotechnical Engineer in Canton, MI. Although the Geotechnical Engineer will work in Canton, MI, the Geotechnical Engineer will be required to travel 15% of working time to client project sites in Michigan & Ohio. Position requires a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering & 6 months experience as a Geotechnical Engineer &/or University Research Assistant.

Position also requires: 1) Exp. must include 6 mos. exp. developing criteria for chemical stabilization based on soil testing; & 2) One university course in pavement design. Job duties: Perform all aspects of geotechnical projects including investigations, construction instrumentation monitoring & installation, & construction inspection & materials testing. Prepare geotechnical engineering scopes & fees. Direct activities of field personnel. Work with technicians on inspection of soil samples. Assign laboratory tests to technicians. Perform pavement subgrade remediation design & pavement section design. The Mannik & Smith Group, Inc. participates in the Bureau of Workers Compensation Drug Free Safety Program. The program requires drug testing for new hires.

Any offer of employment is contingent upon passing the new hire drug test. Qualified applicants should send resume & verification of reqs. to: Rachel Gregg, Vice President - Human Resources, The Mannik & Smith Group, Inc., 2365 Haggerty Road South, Canton, MI 48188.

City of Eastpointe Director of Public Works and Service

New Paradigm College Prep is accepting Open Enrollment applications March 12, 2018 through March 23, 2018 for the 2018-19 school year. Applications can be picked up at the school office. If applications exceed enrollment spaces, a lottery will be held at the school. Applications must be received by close of business March 23, 2018. Questions about enrollment and for applications call:

The City of Highland Park is accepting proposals for Contractors to perform repair and replacement of fire hydrant assemblies and water system valves throughout the City. The project is located in the boundaries of the City, broken down into seven sectors and two phases. Phase 1 spans spring and summer 2018, and Phase 2 spans spring and summer 2019. Each section and phase grouping consists of between 10 and 24 structures to be replaced.

Bidders may submit bids for any single sector or a combination thereof. The combined general scope includes:

New Paradigm College Prep 2450 S. Beatrice St Detroit, MI 48217 (313) 406-7060

• Replacement of 82 fire hydrant assemblies • Replacement of 43 system valves ranging in size (6”–16”) • Allowance for repair of additional hydrants and valves as

authorized by the City • Restoration of asphalt, concrete, and lawn as required per MDOT standards • Hydrostatic test and disinfection (only necessary in situations of uncontrolled pipe breaks with likelihood of water contamination or loss of sanitary conditions during repair) • Installation of temporary water systems (only where repairs will require multiple day shutoffs)

Application Period for Open Enrollment University YES Academy is accepting Open Enrollment applications March 12, 2018 through March 23, 2018 for the 2018-19 school year. Applications can be picked up at the school office. If applications exceed enrollment spaces, a lottery will be held at the school. Applications must be received by close of business March 23, 2018. Questions about enrollment and for applications call:

*All quantities above are approximate and estimated.

Bids must be received by 12:00 p.m. Local Time on Monday, March 12, 2018 Ms. Brenda Green Office of the Clerk, City of Highland Park 12050 Woodward Ave Highland Park, MI 48203

University YES Academy 14469 Curtis St Detroit, MI 48235 (313) 270-2556 Application Period for Open Enrollment

Bids shall be publicly opened and read at: Monday, March 19, 2018, at the City Council Meeting, 7:00 p.m. (Local Time) City of Highland Park City Hall Building 12050 Woodward Ave Highland Park, MI 48203

New Paradigm Glazer Academy and New Paradigm Loving Academy are accepting Open Enrollment applications March 12, 2018 through March 23, 2018 for the 2018-19 school year. Applications can be picked up at the school office. If applications exceed enrollment spaces, a lottery will be held at the school. Applications must be received by close of business March 23, 2018. Questions about enrollment and for applications call: Glazer Academy Loving Academy 2001 LaBelle St 1000 Lynn St Detroit, MI 48238 Detroit, MI 48211 (313) 852-1500 (313) 252-3028

The Contract Documents may be obtained by emailing procurements@metroca.net. All qualified vendors are encouraged to bid on all City of Highland Park construction projects.

A refundable bid deposit in the form of certified check, cash, or surety bond payable to the City of Highland Park for a sum not less than five percent of the amount of the Proposal shall be required with each Proposal.

The successful bidder will be required to furnish satisfactory performance, labor, and materials and maintenance and guarantee bonds in the amount of one hundred percent of the Contract price.

HELP WANTED

The City of Highland Park reserves the right to waive any irregularity, to accept or reject any or all bids, and to accept the proposals that, in the City’s opinion, are in the best interest of and to the advantage of the City of Highland Park. No bidder may withdraw his bid within ninety calendar days after the date of bid opening.

Seeking

CUSTODIAN II/HOUSING – OAKLAND CENTER AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY

Bids (Proposals) will not be received unless made on forms furnished by the City of Highland Park and delivered to the City Clerk’s office on or before 12:00 p.m. Local Time on March 12, 2018.

Oakland Center

Two available positions – work days & shift times listed below. Minimum Qualifications: Perform cleaning activities and maintain assigned areas in the residential housing buildings and the Oakland Center. Two years prior custodial experience, preferably in a university environment/residential setting. High school graduation or an equivalent combination of education and experience, ability to use and/ or mix various cleaning chemicals, perform physically active work, requires frequent lifting, may work in various weather conditions with extremes heat & cold, also may require a MI driver’s license acceptable to the University’s insurance carrier. Salary is $12.11 per hour probationary, $12.36 per hour after 90 days.

Both positions are full time: Position 989544 works: Monday through Friday: 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Position 991879 works Monday & Tuesday: 2:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m., Friday: 1:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. & Saturday & Sunday: 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. See online posting for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by February 23, 2018.

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

City of Highland Park Brenda Green, City Clerk MICHAEL E. DUGGAN MAYOR, CITY OF DETROIT ADVERTISEMENT REQUEST FOR QUOTATIONS & QUALIFICATIONS ENVIRONMENTAL DUE DILIGENCE SERVICES AT THE JOE LOUIS ARENA 19 STEVE YZERMAN DRIVE DETROIT, MI 48226 FOR THE DETROIT BUILDING AUTHORITY The Detroit Building Authority (“DBA”) requests quotations and qualifications from experienced and qualified vendors for environmental due diligence services, as more fully described in the associated Request for Quotations and Qualifications (RFQQ), at the old Joe Louis Arena located at 19 Steve Yzerman Dr., Detroit, MI 48226.

Interested vendors may obtain a copy of the Request and all associated documents through BidSync (www.bidsync.com). The unique bid is titled “Joe Louis Arena Environmental Due Diligence”.

A pre-submittal meeting and site tour will take place at the Joe Louis Arena, 19 Steve Yzerman Dr., Detroit, MI 48226, beginning at 10:00 A.M., Detroit time, on Thursday, February 22, 2018.

The DBA will receive the responses, as herein set forth, via the online procurement platform Bidsync. Bid Proposals shall be submitted not later than 3:00 P.M., Detroit time, on Thursday, March 1, 2018, and will subsequently be evaluated to select a contractor for the contract.

Respondents may only submit one response to this RFQQ. Participation in more than one submittal team will result in rejection of all responses by that Respondent.

Seeking

COORDINATOR FOR RESIDENTIAL STUDENT SUCCESS AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY University Housing

This position provides inclusive and interactive communities that foster student success for Oakland University’s residential community.

The Coordinator assists the Assistant Director for Residential Student Success in the creation, implementation and support of all Living and Learning Communities (LLCs). This position helps advance a model for academic support efforts and initiates collaboration with several departments to promote academic success.

Minimum qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in HRD, Education or related field and two years’ experience in developing Living and Learning Community (LLC) curriculums or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.

Must be able to work collaboratively and independently. Working knowledge of Banner and Banner Relationship Management. Ability to work irregular hours and participate in limited travel. Valid Michigan vehicle operator’s license and a driving record acceptable for coverage by the university’s insurance carrier. Salary commensurate with education, experience, and living arrangements (campus/ off campus). Refer to online posting for additional qualifications and requirements.

First consideration will be given to those who apply by February 20, 2018.

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

Proposals are strictly voluntary on the part of the Respondent and the Respondent assumes all responsibility for the preparation and submittal of the proposal in accordance with the terms and conditions of this RfQQ. The DBA accepts no responsibility for and shall not reimburse the Respondent for any costs incurred in the preparation and submittal of any proposal.

Respondents agree to comply with the requirements of the City of Detroit’s Ordinances and Human Rights Department.

No response to this RFQQ may be withdrawn for at least 120 days after the actual opening of the bids. The DBA reserves the right to waive any irregularity in any bids and to reject any or all bids, should it be deemed in its best interest. If additional information is needed regarding this RFQQ, please contact the DBA at (313) 224-0174.

Detroit Building Authority 1301 Third Street, Suite 328 Detroit, MI 48226

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nchronicle.com

michiga Volume 81

– Number

2

Farmington Hills eated student mistr for by teachers s right knowing his

By Keith A.

Owens

Senior Editor

d. g I understan your is somethin country of Patriotism loyal to the it if necesI get being willing to defend it a better birth, being help make wanting to s. sary, and American place for all d. I include I understan That much definition. that myself in

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disease. Andlunacy Arts and former of Institute of that kind school, Director Detroit infects a grown Salort-Pons, where fully are Museum, Salvador night H. Wright adult teachers the with ing 2017 opening Director, Charles entrusted of ility Juanita Moore, Wilson at Detroit Homecom responsib young Supreme Mary educating then I children, not only Stone Chaney consider it but a poa disease threat. tentially dangerous news reports, stuto several According national, a sixth grade n and both local Middle School in Farmingto his of Owens out A. yanked dent at East

By Keith reportedly crazy teacher who city, but it Hills was Senior Editor by some young ingly black l city idea that seat last week be an overwhelm ingly successfuloomtolerate the standing up and Detroit may could not an overwhelmof the primary was not like the any means n. Two to make Allegiance yet anStone Chaney is not by populatio Pledge of with in order day, reciting the following the same to be dealt its residents are the for that majority kids. The that need for for all or capital and rest of the ing hurdles lost her mind access to success story other teacher the Detroit Free Press: this city a schools and its public me eurs. reason. From quality of , and entrepren me, telling he for black education the yelling at a decent resources “She starts kept doing my work,” access to yells local economy, I just over to me, Because without t stake in the is a non-starter. to get up. speed walks wanted to know significan in Detroit said. “She without a Homecom get up. SheI don’t pledge to a black progress at me to ion of the Detroit notion of her that participat a family.” the final day s active why. I told to God and to my week, on rebirth, Last encourage and placed which growth flag. I pledge and has been ing, an event expats in the city’s business leaders the teachers at The One of the ative leave pendingFarmfrom the city’s expats and local event held critiblack ion by on administr issues roomful of during a breakfast to the n of an investigat some of the and to hear eurs met according conclusio entrepren to discuss ty, Schools, ndent of Corktown superinte eurial communi the leap from ington Public factory in a statestory. The to make local entrepren Free Press Schools also releasedsupports cal to the who have managed growth business with n to high Farmingto district fully from those e or business “The small ment saying,each student to participat struggling expansion. and tor is money. for which is fine denomina the right of potential access doesn’t daily pledge,” ly, the common don’t have the But it still not in the Not surprisingblack businesses to expand, especialof a relief. here. problem somewhat local size. need they heart of the Too many s of similar is the obget to the to the capital they need to white companie of the problem be obviof black entreprethan The first partat least it should its fair share ly when compared to ally more the or more than has the right s, proportion But vious part, Detroit has anywhere any time. small businesse city in the country. any inous. No teacherlike that, ever. At major neurs and any other businesses can’t attract ly stuck in treat any child no excuse. just about of these that they are perpetualto hire more There is simply vast majority problem is which means will never be able part of the ly adults vestment, The second where they are supposed g about survival mode person – maybe. could these teachersly know somethin volunother landscape and than one the city’s who supposedprofession and who as a about how Detroit’s Innovation But just think CEO and the teaching the teaching profession the City of ING page A-4 adults Kesha Cash, ing 2017. who heads so-called See HOMECOM tarily chose Jill Ford (right), Initiatives, interviews how do these with a straight career. So at Detroit Homecom s teachers know that Entrepreneurship America Fund call themselve don’t even Impact of stand they to founder not face when Owens photo had a right ? Whether average – Keith A. Stone Chaney Allegiance the national Pledge of lower than ing expenses 7 perduring the ED page A-4 and non-hous See MISTREAT for cent lower.” major findings Some of the generally, Michigan Reports Detroit, andfollowing: Chronicle the Michigan include ies, Inc. has No. 5 among Trove Technologannual Trove Detroit ranks e for disnationwid the first Study all ocreleased major cities ary Income of Michiincome across Discretion cretionary the state . showing that 1 among all states cupations 3.5 perNo. while Detroit are gan ranks avary income, No. 5 Salaries in than the national for discretion are 27.9 Detroit ranks cent higher e. expenses the city of cities nationwid erage, housing and non-housing among major places five small percent lower,percent lower. also nationMichigan 6.7 the Top 10 expenses among cities amongTrove Discretionary highly of its profesDetroit ranks ally. The for these is the first ce remajor cities Income Study n, maintenan n te data that s in salasions: installatio 2), productio kind to incorpora difference to Tech- and repair (No. entertainflect regional and taxes r of Trove 4), arts, design, take Beauty ries, cost of living, media (No. Pao, co-founde “Our research (No. 3), reveal the the ment, sports and Rihanna’s Fenty shade! materis by occu- nologies, Inc. workers most accurately tion and blows away girl of Americanns. While significant difference that Detroit gives black in terms and transporta home pay finds country occupatio ing cal- pation. ech- the rest of the page A-4 See Page D1 across 778 housing exin the top See INCOME many cost-of-liv general to of affordability, withat 28 percent there are “Detroit ranks when it comes that highlight cities, coming in culators s across elon of cities to keep more penses take into enabling workers said Michael income difference others that there are no effect of taxes on of what they earn,” You To Know account theliving or identify the Who Want Programs the cost of te Universities

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MICHIGAN CHRONICLE Published Every Wendnesday

Salary Range: $74,207 - $101,294 with excellent fringe benefit package, starting salary depending upon qualifications and experience. A copy of the job description for this position is posted on the City’s website at cityofeastpointe.net. Those candidates who meet all minimum qualifications will be required to pass an oral board interview.

Prior to employment, applicant must pass city-designated physical examination, which includes drug screening.

Minimum qualifications include Bachelor’s Degree in business administration, engineering, construction management or related field and five (5) years of progressively more responsible experience in public works administration or construction management, or an equivalent level of education and experience. A State of Michigan S-1 Water Distribution Certification must be obtained within one year of date of hire.

Send application, resume, copy of degree or transcript and certificate(s) to the Personnel Director, 23200 Gratiot Avenue, Eastpointe, MI 48021 by February 26, 2018.

EOE

Joseph Merucci Acting City Manager/Director of Personnel

Unveiling oil painting of oil painting celebrates Black History Month

By Leslie Love

Every day as I enter our state Capitol to begin the House session day, I am reminded of the history this historic and beautiful building has seen in its 139-year history. I love seeing the school kids who come from all over the state to visit their Capitol, and often I overhear the tour guides talk about the beautiful oil paintings that line the rotunda in Leslie Love the Capitol.

Did you know that the Capitol contains 50 portraits? The portraits include all of Michigan’s territorial and state governors, United States senators, Michigan’s only president and other important historical figures. What you will not find among those portraits is a single black face. The Michigan Legislative Black Caucus (MLBC), where I serve as the 2nd Vice-Chair, is going to remedy that oversight.

firsts, and he is the first AfricanAmerican to enroll in the Detroit Public School system where he graduated with honors in 1876.

Rep. Ferguson began his work life as a printer before he earned his law degree, and with his family, he founded and printed the “Plain Dealer,” the first Detroit newspaper published by and for the black community.

He became an outspoken activist when he was denied service in a Detroit restaurant because of the color of his skin and forced to sit in the “colored section.” He sued, and his case made it to the Michigan Supreme Court that ruled racial segregation in public places was not allowed under Michigan law.

Following his service in the Michigan House, Mr. Ferguson continued to be active in political circles in Detroit and Wayne County. He held a number of positions in city government and continued to serve as an advocate and spokesperson for the black community.

To celebrate Black History Month, the MLBC is going to unveil the oil portrait of William Webb Ferguson, the first AfricanAmerican to be elected to – and take a seat in – the Michigan Legislature. The public unveiling will take place from 5-7:30 pm, Wednesday, February 28 in the First Floor Rotunda area of the Capitol.

It is fitting that we honor the ground breaking public service of William Webb Ferguson during Black History Month.

The Honorable Leslie Love is a Democrat representing Michigan’s 10th State House District, which covers a portion of northwest Detroit and Redford Township.

Former Representative Ferguson was elected to the first of his two terms in the House as part of the Detroit Delegation in 1893. His life was one of

Voting Reform in Michigan marches forward

The Promote the Vote coalition’s effort to make voting in Michigan more secure and accessible has moved one step closer to getting on the November ballot as the State Board of Canvassers today approved the proposed ballot language. The board’s approval means the coalition will soon begin collecting approximately 316,000 signatures to get the measure on the November ballot.

“We need a voting system that works for everyone and today we are that much closer to making it happen,” said Kary Moss, ACLU of Michigan Executive Director and Promote the Vote coalition member. “From working parents who struggle with long voting lines, far-away polling places and no time off work to vote, to people who frequently move for jobs or military service, we need a system that allows every eligible Michigander to vote and to have their vote count.”

• Provide voters with the option to vote straight party • Automatically register citizens to vote at the Secretary of State’s office unless the citizen declines • Allow a citizen to register to vote

until 15 days before an election by mail or in person. After that, citizens may register to vote in person with proof of residency up to and on Election Day. • Provide all registered voters access to an absentee ballot for any reason • Ensure the accuracy and integrity of elections by auditing election results

Angela Willson, a Grosse Pointe Park nurse anesthetist, is among the busy moms who struggle to get to the polls on Election Day. The single mother of four wants noreason absentee voting to make casting a ballot more accessible to her and all The Promote the Vote campaign is working parents. led by a broad coalition that includes Of the extra time for military to get in the League of Women Voters, the ACLU their ballots, Vietnam Veterans of America, of Michigan and the state and Detroit Chapter 9 President Paul Palazzolo, noted: branches of the NAACP. “The people who put their lives on the line On Jan. 22, the group filed language to protect our democracy should have as with the Secretary of State’s Office for the much chance as anyone else to participate initiative to amend the state Constitution to: in our democracy.”

The proposed reforms mirror election laws in 40 other states that allow for more time to either register or cast a ballot.

• Ensure military service members and For more information, go to https:// overseas voters get their ballots in promotethevotemi.com/ time for their votes to count • Protect the right to vote a secret ballot