Mc digital edition 6 14 17

Anthony R. McCree, CPA: Managing partner of excellence with George Johnson & Co.

Page C1

Friday, June 30, 2017 | MotorCity Hotel

POWERED BY REAL TIMES MEDIA

Volume 80 – Number 40

michiganchronicle.com

June 14-20, 2017

Saying farewell to 479 Ledyard Street

Much ‘Respect’

By Steve Holsey

Detroit’s own Queen of Soul delivers heartfelt final performance for hometown crowd

Can a “soul”?

building

(Never can say goodbye)

have

The answer is yes.

I refer to the one at 479 Led­ yard St., between Cass and Second, across the park from Masonic Temple and around the corner from Cass Technical High School. Built in 1904, this building has been the home of the Michigan Chronicle since 1963.

Prior to that, the paper was located first on St. Antoine and then Elliott.

So many local, state and national notables have walked through those front doors — governors, mayors, city council members, senators, state representatives, and all manner of candidates for those and other key offices. As well as Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton and many other activists.

And if there was ever a reunion of all the people who have ever worked in this Art Deco structure, the venue would have to be a large one, not to mention the departed employees who would be there spiritually.

Among the big names in our history are June Brown, Sam Logan, Jim Ingram, Bill Black, Rita Griffin, Al Dunmore, Nadine Brown, Danton Wilson, Al Wheeler, Ofield Dukes, Marie Teasley and, of course, Longworth Quinn, who came to the Chronicle in 1944 and served as its publisher for several decades.

The paper was founded in 1936 by John H. Sengstacke, the first editor was Louis E. Martin, and the first press run was 5,000 copies.

By Keith A. Owens Senior Editor

S

The Michigan Chronicle headquarters will soon be moving to 1452 Randolph St. in Harmonie Park, not far from the Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts. The grand old building was purchased in 2015 by the Illitches to help make way for the new sports and events center.

upposedly, there were quite a few special events happening downtown on Saturday evening, or at least that’s what somebody said.

I wouldn’t know. I went to see Aretha.

Which means that, truthfully speaking? In Detroit?

There was really only one show. Whatever the rest of whatever that was supposedly happening wherever it was supposed to be happening was, I’m sure, just fine. No, really.

The Chronicle building being demolished, as it is likely to be, is a weird thought, but not really a depressing one. New publisher Hiram Jackson, who replaced the venerable — and sometimes controversial — Sam Logan, asked a longtime Chronicle employee in a (mostly) joking way, “Are

See 479

LEDYARD page A-4

But this is Detroit. home of the Queen of Soul. The woman who Rolling Stone magazine proclaimed as the greatest singer of all time in December 2010. The woman who has won 19 Grammys. And on and on and on and…

“You know a force from heaven. You know something that God made. And Aretha is a gift from God. When it comes to expressing yourself through song, there is no one who can touch her. She is the reason why women want to sing,” said the accompanying article.

Exactly. And she’s ours.

So when the announcement came out that Saturday

– Monica Morgan photos

WHAT’S INSIDE

Dope dads in the

D Page D-1

$1.00

See ARETHA page A-4

Violence has a cure and prison isn’t it

By Keith A. Owens Senior Editor

The good news is that violence and crime overall continues to spiral downward in the city, even if that spiral isn’t plummeting downward as quickly as most would prefer. But the widely publicized shooting last week of an off-duty Detroit police officer, the result of an unsuccessful robbery attempt which left the officer in critical condition and one of the assailants dead, was a stark reminder that progress does not equal arrival.

Simply put? We’re not there yet. But what may help us get there — and hopefully stay there — is a better understanding of the culture of violence as a public health issue. This process, a coordinated effort between certain public health officials and the police department, focuses not so much on the individual data, or on the necessity for making the punishment fit the crime.

WhatUpDoeTV.com

Rather, when viewed as a public health issue, violent crime takes on a different appearance requiring a more holistic approach.

The basic idea here is not to coddle or excuse criminals, for those whose reflexive reaction to anything but harsh punishment automatically kicks in at the mere mention of an alternative.

The idea here, through fostering a better understanding of the root causes of violence, is prevention. Because the best way to address crime is to stop it before it gets started.

do and give our young people the opportunity to see that violence doesn’t have to happen,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, executive director of the City of Detroit Health Department.

“Violence is really an issue of poverty, but we have to recognize it’s not a genetic predisposition, that there are things we can

“Just living in poverty alone increases your risk. It increases

See VIOLENCE page A-4

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

June 14-20, 2017

Page A-2

Detroit based political, educational and public relations firm, Mario Morrow & Associates, LLC, this week announced that two new associates had joined the team. Mario Morrow & Associates, Where Success Rules and Results Matter, provides clients with a variety of services including, but not limited to, communication strategy, crisis management and media relations. Eager to hit the ground running, the new associates will provide outside the box thinking that will help clients enhance their reputation and further their business objectives.

Beaumont Health supports Crisis Text and Chat Beaumont Health has provided a gift of $40,000 to support expanding the Crisis Text and Chat service at Common Ground.

tal shifts in communication. The Oakland Community Health Network is the primary funder of the Resource and Crisis Helpline.

A Resource and Crisis Helpline telephone service is free and available 24-hours per day, seven days a week. However, due to limited funding, text and chat service has only been available from 4 p.m.-10 p.m., Monday through Friday. Beaumont’s gift will more than double the current coverage, expanding the text and chat service to 4 p.m.–2 a.m., seven days a week.

Common Ground has a stated goal of providing text and chat service 24/7 and hopes the Beaumont sponsorship will serve as a springboard to secure additional funding. The benefit of text and chat is to provide a lifeline to those seeking crisis support, but who prefer not speaking on the telephone, or are in situations which do not permit them to do so safely. Expanding the hours will provide greater access to crisis intervention services, particularly to those in greatest risk age group of 10-14 years old.

“Providing an avenue for troubled and confused youth to reach out for support will help prevent tragedies such as teenage suicide,” said David Wood, M.D., chief medical officer, Beaumont Health and a longtime supporter of Common Ground. “Teenagers are often more comfortable and feel ‘safer’ texting than speaking with someone on the phone. Our hope is that the expansion of the text and chat line will save lives.”

Common Ground’s 24-Hour Resource and Crisis Helpline added text and chat service approximately five years ago to reflect socie-

Beaumont Health Beaumont Health is Michigan’s largest health care system, based on inpatient admissions and net patient revenue. A not-for-profit organization, it was formed in 2014 by Beaumont Health System, Botsford Health Care and Oakwood Healthcare to provide patients with the benefit of greater access to extraordinary, compassionate care, no matter where they live in Southeast Michigan.

Beaumont Health has total net revenue of $4.4 billion and consists of eight hospitals with 3,429 beds, 174 outpatient sites, nearly 5,000 physicians and 36,000 employees and 3,500 volunteers.

In 2016, Beaumont Health had 177,508 inpatient discharges, 17,536 births and 567,658 emergency visits. For more information, visit beaumont.org.

Common Ground Common Ground is a nonprofit organization that has served as an expert on mental health issues and crisis intervention since 1971. Through its 24-hour Resource and Crisis Helpline and in person, Common Ground uses a trauma-informed approach to provide professional, compassionate services to over 80,000 people annually. Common Ground’s core purpose is to move people from crisis to hope through three impact areas: responding to crisis, providing safety and advocacy, and building communities of support.

For more information, please visit www.CommonGroundHelps. org or call 248-456-8150.

Ryan Bridges is an experienced PR professional transitioning from government to private industry. Most recently, Ryan served as the Senior Communications Manager for Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans. In that role, he served as spokesperson for the County Executive, several departments and the County Medical Examiner’s Office in addition to various other responsibilities.

Prior to that role, he served as the County’s Digital Media Coordinator and a Communications Specialist for the State of Michigan.

Ryan holds a BA in Journalism from Michigan State University and MBA - with Marketing and Management concentrations- from Wayne State University. He is a member of the National Black Public Relations Society - Detroit and is active on Detroit Church’s Marketing Committee.

Leah Hill is a 2017 graduate of University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business where she majored in marketing and entrepreneurial studies. She also has a minor in Community Action and Social Change from University of Michigan’s School of Social Work.

Born and raised in Detroit, Leah has an in-depth understanding of the complex but beautiful Detroit landscape, committing to further emphasizing community knowledge and action with her minor.

Leah takes pride in thinking outside the box and challenging the norm, which results in finding innovative solutions. In academic and professional settings, Leah highlights her attentiveness to creativity and community relations.

West Michigan Community Shows Support For Refugees With more than 43 million people worldwide forcibly displaced because of conflict and persecution, Bethany Christian Services, a global nonprofit organization committed to bringing and keeping families together, is raising awareness for the refugee crisis by hosting its 4th annual Refugee World Cup in Grand Rapids. On Saturday, June 17, hundreds of refugees who have relocated to West Michigan from war-torn countries will be participating alongside local soccer players in Bethany’s annual 12-team soccer tournament.

Congolese refugee family

“Anyone who has seen images from Syria recently knows the devastation refugee families – including many young children – are facing as they flee for their lives,” said Christian Hawkins, Refugee Advocacy Specialist. “The Refugee World Cup is an opportunity for those locally who have been through similar circumstances to promote the importance of supporting foreign families in their greatest hour of need, while continuing to build relationships in the West Michigan community.”

including Africa United (primarily Congolese), Burma, Vietnam, and Sudan, as well as unaccompanied refugee minors from Central and South America. The oneday tournament, taking place at the Gainey Athletic Complex in Grand Rapids, features a total of 19 games with play shortened into 25-minute halves.

Refugee players originate from 10 countries and a variety of cultures,

“We take pride in participating in this event

The Refugee World Cup is made possible through a variety of co-sponsors, including Michigan Turkey Producers, the largest employer of refugees in West Michigan.

every year,” said Dan Lennon, CEO, Michigan Turkey Producers. “Nobody should be without a country to call home, somewhere they can feel safe and raise a family without worry of persecution. Bethany’s event brings attention to these important issues in a welcoming and comfortable environment that is invaluable not only to those who have been relocated to our country, but to our entire community as well.”

New to this year’s event, Bethany is introducing a silent auction to raise funds for refugee resettlement services.

A public event, Refugee

Flint resident seeks to oust HOW TO mayor amid ongoing water crisis CONTACT US: Flint Mayor Dr. Karen Weaver is under fire after a resident launched a petition to remove her from office. Arthur Woodson explained that he’s leading the effort to oust the beleaguered mayor for the handling of a trash removal services contract costing millions. Two companies, Rizzo and Republic Services, were both collecting trash until September 2016, even though Rizzo officials were allegedly embroiled in a corruption scandal.

When reporters pressed Woodson, he revealed that while the petition focuses on the trash contract, it is actually a combination of issues largely related to the city’s water crisis that served as an impetus for the ouster.

“First of all, I have a city to run and we have a water crisis, but we

still have a city to run.

So when this took place, we didn’t have money yet to start the lead service line replacements. But I want to talk about this garbage contract because everything said was completely false. Everything was done according to the process. One of the things that had happened under the emergency manager, contracts were just signed and signed and signed, and so I said I was going to put it out [the garbage contract] for bid,” Weaver said.

Weaver said her primary concern was to save Flint taxpayers additional costs while still combating the water issue and hit back at Woodson’s petition by saying she thinks the effort is “sad” and “tearing the city apart” instead of focusing on the pertinent issue of contaminated water.

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE 479 LEDYARD • DETROIT MI 48201 (313) 963-5522

OFFICE HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

For general, local................. Ext. 232 Entertainment news............ Ext. 241 Community

(religion, weddings, etc)................... Ext. 247

Subscriptions....................... Ext. 243 –DEADLINE –

Classified: 3 p.m Friday

Copy, corrections and cancellations, preceding the Wed­nesday publication.

Display: 12 p.m. Friday

preceding the Wednesday pub­lication.

For all news and calendar items: Deadline is two weeks prior to event.

Weeks that contain holidays, dead­line is Thursday prior to publication date.

World Cup attendees can also enjoy a variety of ethnic foods from on-site vendors.

Bethany has helped resettle more than 6,700 refugee adults and children since 1975. Of the more than 43 million refugees around the world, less than one percent of these individuals find their way to the U.S. Bethany aids refugees with medical care, education, transportation, and employment.

For more information on the Refugee World Cup visit Bethany.org/grandrapids or to learn how you can help refugees visit Bethany.org/refugee.

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE PUBLISHING COMPANY Publication No.: USPS 344-820

479 Ledyard Street Detroit, MI 48201 Phone: (313) 963-5522 OFFICE HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Closed Sat. and Sun. The Michigan Chronicle is published every Wednesday. Periodical Postage, paid at Detroit, MI. Price $1.00 and other post office.

MEMBER OF AUDIT BUREAU OF CIRCULATION POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:

MICHIGAN CHRONICLE 479 LEDYARD DETROIT, MI 48201

STATE OF MICHIGAN BEFORE THE MICHIGAN PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION **** FOR THE CUSTOMERS OF DTE GAS COMPANY CASE NO. U-18338 • DTE Gas Company requests Michigan Public Service Commission approval of the Reconciliation of its 2016 Energy Optimization (EO) Plan expenses filed pursuant to Public Act 295 of 2008.

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

• You may call or write DTE Gas Company, One Energy Plaza, Detroit, Michigan 48226-1279, (800) 477-4747, for a free copy of its application. Any person may review the application at the offices of DTE Gas Company.

• A public hearing will be held:

DATE/TIME:

Tuesday, July 11, 2017, at 9:30 a.m.

This hearing will be a prehearing conference to set future hearing dates and decide other procedural matters.

BEFORE:

Administrative Law Judge Mark E. Cummins

LOCATION:

Michigan Public Service Commission 7109 West Saginaw Highway Lansing, Michigan

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 Michigan Public Service Commission (Commission) will hold a public hearing to consider DTE Gas Company’s (DTE Gas) May 15, 2017 application requesting approval of their reconciliation for the 2016 EO plan year, the performance incentives, and the associated proposed tariffs.

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 Commission staff 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 July 5, 2017. (Interested persons may elect to file using the traditional paper format.) The proof of service shall indicate service upon DTE Gas’s attorney, Mr. Middleton, One Energy Plaza, Detroit, Michigan 48226-1279.

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. Please do not include information you wish to remain private.

Requests for adjournment must be made pursuant to the Michigan Administrative Hearing System’s Administrative Hearing Rules R 792.10422 and R 792.10432. Requests for further information on adjournment should be directed to (517) 284-8130.

A copy of DTE Gas’s request may be reviewed on the Commission’s website at: michigan.gov/mpscedockets, and at the office of DTE Gas Company.

For more information on how to participate in a case, you may contact the Commission at the above address or by telephone at (517) 284-8090.

Jurisdiction is pursuant to 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 the Michigan Administrative Hearing System’s Administrative Hearing Rules, 2015 AC, R 792.10401 et seq.

June 9, 2017

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

June 14-20, 2017

Page A-3

Alisha Dixon photos

A look inside the new Little Caesars Arena

By Alisha Dixon

building now and being the last of a generation is that we can go to every building and say ‘What are the one or two things each does best?’ and then borrow as many of those things as we can and put them all in one place.

So, when we’re done, this building should be the best of the best ideas of building arenas in this country.”

With less than three months until the official opening of the new Little Caesars Arena, Tom Wilson, president and CEO of Olympia Entertainment, gave members of the media a tour of the soon to be completed arena complex.

The arena will serve as the epicenter of the District Detroit, Wilson said, with over 250 events from May to September each year, making it a destination, not just an arena.

In the Via concourse, a large atrium-like space with a curved glass roof inspired by the High Line in New York, visitors will be able to gather to watch games or concerts projected onto a large aluminum screen that Wilson proudly said is larger than screens in Times Square, Las Vegas and Disney.

“It’s going to change the way people attend an event,” Wilson said.

Kid Rock’s Sept. 12 concert will mark the official opening of Little Caesars Arena.

The complex, costing well over $800 million, is comprised of the Red Wings practice facility, numerous restaurants and bars, retail and commercial buildings, a parking structure connected to the arena via a bridge and an outdoor plaza that can accommodate up to 4,000 people.

The design of the arena and complex, Wilson revealed, is inspired by some of the best arenas in the world, including one from the 2014 Olympics in Sochi, Russia, the Montreal Canadiens Bell Centre and Madison Square Garden. It will

“Between periods or between quarters or between acts this is sort of a great place to circulate all the way around the building,” he said.

accommodate different seating rafters allow riggers to set up configurations for up to 20,000 and remove equipment in one people for Red Wings and Pis- day instead of three. When it tons games, concerts and othA Speakers Forum comes to amenities, Wilson er events with adjustable tele- said the arena was built in a A Speakers FORUM IVForum scopic seating. The scoreboard, way that will provide visitors measuring 44 feet on each side, FORUM IVwith a more comfortable expewill be the largest in the NHL. rience than at Joe Louis Arena Event behind the scene details and the Palace. like tension wire grids in the

CEOCEOOutlook Outlook

“The Joe was so old that it was from a completely different generation. So, what happened was once we built the Palace, that sort of changed the way arenas were built forever,” Wilson said about choosing the arena’s amenities.

“The advantage we had in

“On the perimeter of these outer buildings are 12 laser projectors and so the entire game can be put up on this entire circle. You can literally go from goal line to goal line all the way around the other side of the building.

“It’s going to be a little bit overwhelming. You can sort of change the color of the skin from red on Red Wings games to blue on Pistons games to green on St. Paddy’s Day.”

June 15, 2017 • 7:30 a.m.

June 15, 2017 • 7:30 a.m.

Pancakes & Politics hosts all-star season finale Detroit Athletic Club

Detroit Athletic Club

241 Madison Avenue, Detroit, MI 48226

241 Madison Avenue, Detroit, MI 48226 Panelists Panelists

By Roz Edward

Dr. William F. Pickard Dr. William F. Pickard

Matthew J. Simoncini

Matthew J. Simoncini

Dr. William F. Pickard Dr. William F. Pickard

Chairman & CEO, Global Automotive Alliance Chairman & CEO, Global Automotive Alliance

Matthew J. Simoncini Matthew J. Simoncini The Michigan Chronicle’s President & CEO, &Lear President CEO,Corporation Lear Corporation Pancakes & Politics forum, Cindy Pasky Cindy Pasky concludes its 12th season with President & CEO, Strategic Staffing Solutions Founder, Founder, President & CEO, Strategic Staffing Solutions an august panel of leading corGerard M. Anderson porate executives offering perGerardChairman M. Anderson & CEO, DTE Energy A Speakers Forum economChairman & CEO, DTE Energy A Speakers Forum spectives on Detroit’s Presented by ic forecast. FORUM To date,IV it’s been a Presented by FORUM IV for Detroit phenomenal year and Michigan’s southeast region and the Pancakes & Politics Forum IV business specialists are15, principal in the June 2017players • 7:30 a.m. city’s Detroit economic revival, which Athletic Club Gerard M. Anderson Pickard Matthew J. Simoncini Cindy Pasky isDetroit noted the influx of private Dr. William Athletic Club Partners: 241 for Madison Avenue, Detroit, MI 48226 Dr. William F. Pickard Media Matthew J. Simoncini 241 Madison Avenue, Detroit, MI 48226 capital, publicPanelists incentives and Dr. William F. PickardMedia Partners: Matthew J. Simoncini Cindy Pasky Gerard M. Anderson Panelists Forbes all IT disciplines. residential and mixed-use Dr. William F. Pickardde- 2015, the City of Detroit award- and is ranked #151 on Cindy Pasky Gerard M. Anderson ed VITEC LLC, one of GAA’s Fortune 500. With its corporate Chairman & CEO, Global Automotive Alliance velopments along with historiDr. William F. Pickard S3, headquartered in Detroit, Chairman & CEO, Global Automotive Alliance member companies an Join $11.53 headquarters in Southfield, the conversation #PancakesandPolitics17 cal renovations.

Matthew J. Simoncini provides services to Fortune million vehicle parts inventory Lear maintains 243 locations in 500 companies and FTSE100 President & Simoncini CEO, Lear Corporation Matthew J. The Pancakes & Politics Fo- management contract, Join the conversation #PancakesandPolitics17 President & CEO, Lear Corporation making 37 countries around the globe customers with around 2,700 Cindy Pasky Session rumFounder, IV –President CEO Outlook & CEO, Strategic Staffing Solutions it one of the largest awarded to and employs approximately team members at 31 branch loCindy Pasky at the Detroit Club any minority firm by the city. 150,000 employees and serves Founder, President & CEO, Strategic Staffing Solutions Gerard M. Athletic Anderson breakfast Chairman event will not only In May of this year, GAA and every major automaker in the cations in the U.S. and Europe. & CEO, DTE Energy Gerard Anderson gauge the M. climate for business the City of Detroit celebrated world. In May of this year, Lear by (Note: It was Cindy Pasky Chairman & CEO,Presented DTE Energy growth andPresented development in De- the official opening of the new also hosted a groundbreaking who suggested at a 2013 Panby troit, the all-star panel of ex- GAA national headquarters in ceremony for its future Asian cakes & Politics forum discusperts will engage P&P guests Southwest Detroit. The compa- headquarters in Shanghai, Chi- sion that Mike Duggan wage a in dynamic dialogue, bringing ny is a global provider of con- na. write-in campaign to become business interests and expecta- tract logistics, procurement, mayor of Detroit.)

Cindy Pasky, founder, presitions into focus, with particular quality containment, wareGerard M. Anderson, chairattention to Media business growth housing, freight forwarding and dent and CEO of Strategic StaffPartners: man and CEO, DTE Energy. ing Solutions.

Pasky founded and the challenges of identify- contractCindy Paskyservices. GerardStrategic M. Anderson assembly Staffing Solutions in Anderson was named CEO of Media Partners: ing strategies to chart organizaMatthew J. Simoncini, Gerard pres- M. 1990 with four benchmarks: the Detroit-based diversified Cindy Pasky Anderson tional success. ident and #PancakesandPolitics17 CEO, Lear Corpora- set the bar high for what a cor- energy company in 2010 and Join the conversation Speakers for P&P’s import- tion. Simoncini has been the poration should do; create jobs; chairman in 2011. He directs ant CEO forum in- chief executive JoinOutlook the conversation #PancakesandPolitics17 officer and pres- offer people an opportunity to the development and manageclude: ident of Lear Corp. since Sept. succeed and change their sta- ment of DTE’s energy-related Dr. William Pickard, found- 1, 2011, where he is responsi- tion in life; and make commu- businesses and services naer and chairman of Global Au- ble for the strategic direction nity and charity work a core tionwide. The company’s opertomotive Alliance.

Pickard and operational leadership of part of the company’s business. ating units include an electric heads one of the largest African the company. Lear is an inter- The company ranks among the utility serving 2.2 million cusAmerican-owned businesses in national frontrunner in the en- largest staffing firms in the U.S. tomers in Southeast Michigan the nation, with 1,600 national gineering and design of auto- with a database of more than and a natural gas utility serving and international employees. In motive seating and e-systems, try specific knowledge across 1.2 million customers in Mich-

Outlook CEOCEOOutlook

June 15, 2017 • 7:30 a.m.

igan. The DTE Energy portfolio also includes non-utility energy businesses focused on power and industrial projects, natural gas pipelines, gathering and storage and energy marketing and trading. DTE serves 450 Michigan communities in a variety of ways, including philanthropy, volunteerism and economic progress.

“We are especially proud that people from all across the region, from all walks and even across the state, will be here to enjoy and participate in what promises to be a robust dialogue with these world class business leaders. This is going to be a dynamic event,” said Michigan Chronicle publisher and Pancakes & Politics creator Hiram Jackson Event moderators are Dennis Archer Jr., president of Archer Corporate Services and CEO of Ignition Media Group, and Carol Cain, Emmy-Award winning producer and host of the “Michigan Matters” talk show.

Special guest Rochelle Riley of the Detroit Free Press will share Pancakes & Politics highlights in real time via Twitter.

Created in 2006, Pancakes & Politics will return in the spring of 2018 for its 13th discussion series with leading policymakers and influencers addressing the most important urban issues facing Detroit and Michigan businesses and residents.

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

June 14-20, 2017

Violence

Aretha

From page A-1

night was going to be Aretha’s last show, and that it was going to be free? I remember somebody asking me how crowded I thought it might get.

“It’s Aretha’s final show. On a Saturday night. Outside. At the Detroit Music Hall. For free. You figure it out.”

But I also heard the chatter that maybe this would be her last show…and then again maybe not.

Because, after all, how many times have we heard some artist do the farewell thing to all their adoring fans, and then 10 years later they’re still saying goodbye, right? So then maybe…

But here’s the thing: Aretha’s been at this for a long, long time.

And all good things must, sooner or later, actually come to an end. I mean, it’s not like it’s hard to believe that maybe, just maybe, the Queen is starting to get a bit tired of being on the road.

But even if this was just one big psyche! Who cares? Did I really want to be the one sitting at home gambling that “Oh, she’ll be back.

Yeah. She…yeah. I know she will.

She’ll be…”

No. And just as I suspected, the crowd outside the Music Hall was beyond packed. There were so many people that I actually felt sorry for anyone who may have needed to use the facilities because ’round about 5:30 pm (show time was advertised as 6 pm), there was barely enough room to change your mind, let alone make the pilgrimage to the Port-a-Potty.

Plus it was hot. Man was it hot.

The woman sitting next to me, wiping her forehead, said, “Somebody need to tell Aretha we out here gettin’ heat stroke.”

But I noticed that same woman never left her chair.

Because, as Aretha said, once she eased out onto the stage sometime around 6:45 (which was about 10-15 minutes after the first stem-winding psyche! introduction that produced neither hide nor hair of Aretha), “It’s about to get hotter.”

And that it did. Even though it was clear from the start that the Queen wasn’t feeling her best, which she admitted to later in the show. I had heard she wasn’t doing well, and even though I wasn’t right up close to the stage (I didn’t arrive anywhere near early enough for that), I was close enough to see that she appeared a bit frail, and was walking noticeably slow and

479 Ledyard you going to cry when we leave?”

That employee was this writer and the answer was “no.” Memories notwithstanding, I feel an unexpected sense of detachment regarding both leaving the building I sometimes refer to as “Ledyard Place” and its demolishment fate, like the building next door and the one across the street.

The lack of deep emotion could be because the building will always be in my head and heart. I have been a full-time Michigan Chronicle employee since 1985 and have been coming to the building as a columnist and contributing writer since 1970.

Oh, if walls could talk.

The laughs and good times in this building have been plentiful. But, yes, there have also been heated words exchanged, certain people not speaking to certain others for various lengths of time, and even, on one occasion, two employees in the sales department talking seriously about a conflict on the parking

Freda Payne

Thomas Hearns

carefully. She also had to perform sitting down several times during the show.

But once the Queen began to sing, even though not always at the peak of performance that frequent listeners have probably witnessed at other shows (her house-burning recent performance at the Kennedy Center Honors in front of President Barack Obama added yet another exclamation point behind her revered status), it was clear that Aretha not singing at her peak is still the next horizon beyond whoever’s in second place on his/her best day. When she stepped into gospel mode with two of her guest performers, the Williams brothers, it was perhaps the strongest part of the show and a welcome reminder to everyone where the Queen got her start in the House of the Lord, which also happened to be the church home of her father on Planet Earth, the Rev. C.L. Franklin. Some may remember that Rev. Franklin, pastor of New Bethel Baptist Church and a prominent civil rights activist, was also known as “the man with the million dollar voice.”

She also sang expected crowd favorites such as “Freeway of Love,” “Chain of Fools” and “Ain’t No

Way,” among others. Noticeably absent was “Respect,” but hey, you can’t have everything. Predictably, since it was her last show, Mayor Mike Duggan made an appearance, and got a good laugh from the crowd when he said he didn’t think he’d ever be sharing the mic with Aretha. Duggan presented the Queen with the Key to the City, as well as giving the crowd a brief history lesson on the true meaning of that award which stretches back centuries. Aretha also gave shout outs to her friends in the audience such as Mary Wilson of the Supremes, Freda Payne (another of Detroit’s own) and Detroit boxing legend Tommy Hearns, among others.

Toward the end of the show, the Rev. Jesse Jackson showed up to escort Aretha off the stage (he also escorted her up the steps at the beginning of the performance). But before she left, Aretha surveyed the crowd for what felt like a bit of an extended emotional moment. The last song had been sung, the last note fading into the warm evening air. Maybe it suddenly dawned on her the true meaning of it all.

“Pray for me,” she said.

Always. And thank you. For everything.

From page A-1

lot.

And who could forget the protests across the street from the building when the Michigan Chronicle endorsed a Republican gubernatorial candidate who was very unpopular in the black community.

Actually, the publisher at the time endorsed that candidate for whatever his reasons might have been. No one on the staff had anything to do with it.

And, in fact, we took a lot of flak from the public in response to the publisher’s unexpected decision.

Interestingly, after the furor subsided, some of those same protestors were back knocking on the door, trying to get things printed in the paper.

But the good has far outweighed the bad at 479 Ledyard St., and many lasting friendships were formed and developed within its walls.

Now let’s talk about the celebrities who have come to the office for interviews…most of them conducted by yours truly.

It has pretty much been a who’s who of black show business.

Think of the multifaceted Keenen Ivory Wayans, the classy Nancy Wilson, the love man, Barry White, the rapper-turned-actor LL Cool J, the sexy Vanity, the debonair Billy Dee Williams, the amazing Rachelle Ferrell, the fun Kid ’n Play, New Edition, Al Green, Roz Ryan and Evelyn “Champagne” King and the iconic Muhammad Ali. Also, the sultry Phyllis Hyman, the gifted actors Lawrence Fishburne, Danny Glover and Charles S. Dutton, the multitalented Gregory Hines, the fantastic Jody Watley, the legendary Smokey Robin-

son, the talented actresses Nia Long, Esther Rolle and Sheryl Lee Ralph, the dancing rapper M.C. Hammer, funnyman Chris Tucker and the cute Raven-Symone (new to “The Cosby Show” at the time).

And that is only part of that story.

True, some paint is peeling and some plaster is shaking loose, but the Michigan Chronicle story, at its soon-to-be-ex location, 479 Ledyard St., is an amazing one.

But we look forward to making new history in the refurbished building at 1452 Randolph St. Celine Dion recorded the classic “My Heart Will Go On” — and so will ours.

Page A-4

From page A-1

your risk of mental health trauma, it increases your risk of being both a perpetrator and a victim of violence in the future. [But] if you intervene early on, and there’s data that supports this, you can absolutely decrease the levels of violence.”

After last week’s attack, Willie E. Bell, who serves as chairman of the Detroit Board of Police Commissioners, issued the following powerful remarks in a press statement: “As a city, we need to summon the strength of character and spirit to say this level of violence is not necessary, and these crimes against one another need to stop.

“This latest unfortunate incidence of violence is highlighted because the attempted robbery victim was an off-duty Detroit police officer. We pray for his recovery, we pray for his healthy return to his family, to his job, and to all the things that he enjoys in life. It is important to remember that he was running errands, just taking care of personal business like all of us do.

And, like all of us going about the chores of daily life, he had every right to be safe and unharmed going to the store. The robber likely saw an ordinary customer, perhaps one like other customers targeted on other occasions, but this time, he sealed his fate by trying to rob someone who was armed and well trained in using a weapon.

“So, as we pray for the health of this police officer, we recognize that we are praying for yet another victim of senseless crime and violence. Detroit as a city is better than these recent months of violence indicate, and we are certainly better as people than these criminal acts indicate.

“People like to say that Detroit is a city of neighborhoods, but really we are a city of neighbors. We could not have survived these past years of upheaval and sacrifice if we did not believe in each other just as much as we believed in our city. We have gone through too much to have our city or our daily lives marred by these senseless acts of crime and violence.”

Khaldoun, who grew up on the city’s east side, said it was the seemingly unceasing level of violence she saw perpetrated against black youth, not only growing up but also in her professional life as an emergency room physician, that prompted her to enter the field of approaching violence as a public health issue that can be stopped.

“My family is from District 3, the east side of Detroit. So I get it. My family is from places where a lot of folks don’t want to go today,” she said.

“That’s what encouraged to get me involved in public health, the violence that I saw. Literally when I was in emergency when I was in medical school in Philadelphia at University of Pennsylvania at the time, and I was on my trauma surgery rotation and I remember one night when you couldn’t get the body bags zipped up quick enough before there was someone else coming in the door.”

Khaldoun said it’s important to understand that, statistically speaking, most of those bodies had likely been to the emergency room at least several times before due to violent encounters.

“So violence as a public health issue. What does it really mean? It means that there is nothing about young minority males — which tends to be what it is in America — there’s nothing inherent about a young African-American male being violent or carrying a gun. This is not a genetic predisposition to be violent, right? So why do we have this violence issue?

“What if we connected our schools with our mental health services and do some screening? There are so many children who are suffering with these adverse childhood experiences. Trauma in the home. I’m not talking about necessarily physical trauma, but neglect, abuse. They’re all mental health issues that affect a child and their trajectory in life. So if we could really focus on the youth, and focus on upstream, I think we could really move the needle on violence long-term.”

Detroit Board of Police Commissioners selects new leadership The Detroit Board of Police Commissioners elected Lisa Carter of District 6 as the new chair and mayoral appointee Eva Garza Dewaelsche as the vice chair during its weekly Thursday meeting.

Effective July 1, 2017, Carter will succeed Chair Willie E. Bell of District 4. The role of vice chair has been vacant since Ricardo Moore of District 7 resigned for professional reasons.

The board voted during its evening community meeting at Marathon Petroleum Company. Under its bylaws, the BOPC elects two officers, a chair and a vice chair. The officers serve for one year and may not serve consecutive terms.

Both Carter and Dewaelsche are lifelong Detroit residents, are graduates of the Detroit public schools and have backgrounds as sworn law enforcement officers.

Carter is a former Wayne County Sheriff who retired at the rank of lieutenant after a 27-year career. She holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Concordia University and is a graduate of the Eastern Michigan University’s School of Police Staff and Command Program and the Central Michigan Law Enforcement Executive Leadership Institute. She currently is the research assistant member coordinator for the AmeriCorps Urban Safety Project at the Wayne State University Center for Urban Studies. Detroit voters in District 6 elected Carter to a four-year term on the Board of Police Commissioners in November 2013. She previously has

served as vice chair and as chair.

Dewaelsche, who began a banking career during high school, is a former Detroit police officer. She holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a master’s degree in education from Wayne State University. She currently serves as the president and CEO of SER Metro-Detroit Jobs for Progress, Inc., a workforce development organization established over 45 years ago with operations in Detroit and in Illinois, Texas and Pennsylvania. Mayor Mike Duggan appointed Dewaelsche to the Board of Police Commissioners; she also served an earlier term as an appointee under Mayor Dennis Archer.

Created by City Charter in 1974, the Detroit Board of Police Commissioners has supervisory authority and oversight over the Police Department. Under the 2012 Charter, the board is comprised of 11 civilian members; Detroiters elect seven members by district (the seat for District 7 is vacant); the mayor appoints four atlarge members.

The current members are Willie E. Bell, Elizabeth Brooks, Willie E. Burton, Lisa Carter, Reginald Crawford, Eva Garza Dewaelsche, Conrad L. Mallet Jr., Derrick Sanders, Richard Shelby and Edgar L. Vann.

The Detroit Board of Police Commissioners meets weekly on Thursday at 3 p.m. at Detroit Public Safety Headquarters, 1301 Third Ave, except for the second Thursday of the month when it holds community meetings at 6:30 p.m.

news

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

June 14-20, 2017

Page A-5

Another contender for governor steps into the ring

By Alisha Dixon Shri Thanedar, India-born scientist, entrepreneur and author, officially announced his candidacy for the 2018 Michigan governor’s race during a speech at TechTown in Detroit. His platform, he said, will focus on creating a “Stronger, Smarter Michigan” for all Michigan residents, not a select few.

“Michiganders are fed up with political bickering, partisanship and grandstanding, and a government that serves the few and ignores the many,” Thanedar said during the announcement. “As governor, I will listen to all but favor none, except the people of Michigan when we work to arrive at common sense, pragmatic solutions that make people’s lives better.”

Both Thanedar’s professional and personal background represent a life of hard work, innovation and pushing beyond barriers. While growing up poor in India, he juggled school and worked numerous jobs to support his family.

As a result of his work ethic, the Democratic candidate went on to earn a Master of Science degree in Chemistry from the University of Bombay, an MBA from Fontbonne University, a Ph.D in Polymer Chemistry from the University of Akron and post-doctoral work at the University of Michigan.

Emigrating from India in 1979, Thanedar worked for the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, his first job in the United States. In 1990, just two years after becoming a U.S. citizen, he went on to purchase Chemir, a St. Louis-based chemical testing laboratory. While raising his two young boys as a single father after the sudden death of his first wife, Thanedar was able to grow the company from a staff of three and $150,000 in annual sales to over 450 employees and $63 million in annual sales. Chemir’s success was cut short due to the recession and Thanedar lost everything.

With the desire to start over, in 2010 he moved back to Ann Arbor where he founded Avomeen Analytical Services, a product testing and development laboratory that created almost 50 high-paying jobs. This success, Thanedar said, can be attributed to his dedication to achieving the American Dream, a dream he said he is committed to helping others reach.

“America gave me a chance to succeed and Michigan nurtured my American Dream. My success has given me the freedom and the obligation to give back to those around me, from my employees to my community to my state,” Thanedar said.

YOUR GOALS. OUR COMMITMENT. The SMART Affordable Mortgage1

Shri Thanedar “To the young people who have dreams, and goals and aspirations to reach for the stars, I know sometimes it looks as though there is no light at the end of the tunnel. I know that empty feeling, I have felt that frustration. I have been in your shoes, and promise you that your state will offer you incentives and training and you too can achieve your American Dream.”

• • • •

To fulfill this promise, Thanedar sold Avomeen in 2016 to devote his life to public service. Although he is a successful entrepreneur, he believes running the state in the same manner as a multimillion-dollar corporation, as proposed by Republicans, can have grave consequences.

“Rick Snyder campaigned as a businessman. I am a different kind of businessman than Snyder, or Donald Trump.

I built small businesses from the ground up, rather than being handed billion-dollar corporations. I created jobs in America, in Michigan, and did not outsource jobs to foreign countries. I do not believe what the Republicans always say, that you should run government like a business. Government is not a business. I don’t believe that you can govern by spreadsheet and we all know now that thinking like that leads to disasters like Flint,” Thanedar said.

Attractive rates No private mortgage insurance Low down payment options Plus, closing cost assistance to eligible homebuyers2

Visit theprivatebank.com/mortgage or call (855) 717-7882 for details.

Learn how we can solve for X for you.

WE SOLVE FOR X 1

Income eligibility requirements and geographic restrictions apply to the SMART Affordable Mortgage and are subject to change at any time without notice. Loans are subject to credit approval.

2

The Closing Cost Assistance Program is available to eligible borrowers towards closing costs and prepaid fees on the new purchase or refinance of an owner occupied single family dwelling. Income eligibility requirements and geographic restrictions apply and are subject to changes at any time without notice. Funding may be limited and subject to availability.

“Today, we set out on the long road to reclaim Michigan’s greatness.”

16F007 © 2016 THE PRIVATEBANK

11th Annual7th Annual

7th Annual

DETR D E T R O IT GM RIVER DAYS hosted by RIVERRIVER DAYS presented by the presented by Detroit RiverFront Conservancy

Detroit RiverF

June 21-23, 2013

June 23–25, 2017 June 2 summer start s here

Kick

off sum r alobeautiful ng Detroit ’s beautiful River Kick off summer alongme Detroit’s RiverWalk wit h the fam ily-frie with the family-friendly festival features ndlythat fest ival that features th a bikeAnn night, the Tuskegee Airmen Museum Airshow, ual Detroit River ArtScape competition, the MetroPCS zip line rides, river tours, a carnival, Run 5k, a bike night, recreational activities from sand sculptures and live concerts.

summer starts her e

Michigan Department of Natural Resources , str Kick off summer along form ers , ride s and gam es, a Tall Ship, sand scul A FULL MUSIC LINEUP OF MORE THAN and with the family-friendly live con cer ts.

50 ACTS IS AVAILABLE AT RIVERDAYS.COM

Annual Detroit Headlining acts include:

River Ar Ann Wilson of Heart (Friday) Run 5k, a bike night, re Freddie Jackson (Saturday) A fullRon musIsley ic line up of more thAn Isley Brothers featuring (Saturday) Michigan Department 50 Act s is AvAilAble At riverDAys.com 112 (Sunday) formers, rides and gam Joe (Sunday) and concerts.

Admission, which supports the non-profit Detroitlive RiverFront Conservancy, Headlinin g acts

inclu de:and free on Friday until 5 pm is $3 before 3 pm, $5 after 3 pm

The Guess Who (Friday) The O’Jays (Saturday) George Clinton & the P-Funk All Stars (Sunday)

Admission, which supports th Detroit Riverfront Conservanc before 5 p.m. and $5 after 5 p on Friday until 5 p.m.

riverdays.com

Sponsored by: Sponsored by: 112 aturing

Isley Brothers fe Ron Isley

Joe

OFFICIAL ADVERTISER

River Days and weekend rates at the Detroit the Renaissance Center just $179 per nigh t.

OFFICIAL ADVERTISER tions visit DetroitMarriott.com or call 800 -35 PEPSI_S1_No_Bkgd_4C

®

PEPSI_S1_No_Bkgd_4C

A full mus 50 Acts is AvA

Headlining acts include:

The Guess Who (Friday) The O’Jays (Saturday)

Page A-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • June 14-20, 2017

CONGRATULATIONS DISCOVER THE UNEXPECTED FELLOWS!

Alexa Imani Spencer HOWARD

Noni Marshall HOWARD

Darrell Williams MOREHOUSE

Ayron Lewallen MOREHOUSE

Jordan Fisher CLARK ATLANTA

Taylor Burris SPELMAN

Tiana Hunt CLARK ATLANTA

Kelsey Jones SPELMAN

Discover the Unexpected is back! This year’s DTU journalism fellowship presented by the all-new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox in partnership with the National Newspaper Publishers Association has expanded beyond Howard University to include students from Spelman College, Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University. Our 8 DTU Fellows will share stories from Atlanta, Washington D.C., Raleigh and New Orleans. Our young journalists will explore and share stories from these rich strongholds of African American history and culture. Join them as they embark on this exciting journey of inspiration, education and discovery.

#discovertheunexpected

DISCOVER MORE OF THEIR STORY AT NNPA.ORG/DTU

SECTION B ASK THE

COMMUNITY Powered by Real Times Media

michiganchronicle.com

June 14-20, 2017

DOCTOR

Dr. Carmen McIntyre

What can I do to prevent dementia?

Dementia is a general term for a number of disorders. One thing they have in common is memory loss.

They also affect other mental abilities and are caused by changes in the brain. They impair one’s ability to function and live independently.

Many people have heard of Alzheimer’s disease, often called “Old Timer’s”, which is the most common form of dementia. There are other causes such as vascular dementia, sometimes known as post-stroke dementia; Huntington’s Disease; Parkinson’s Disease dementia; and Creutzfeldt-Jakob, a variant of the disorder which causes “mad cow” disease.

Because there are many different types and causes of dementia, there is no single way to prevent them.

However, there are some general recommendations that can improve your risk: • Healthy diet • Regular physical activity • Smoking cessation • Manage diabetes, cholesterol and hypertension • Healthy weight • Manage depression • “Exercise” your mind • Social Supports Most healthy diets include fruits and vegetables, fish, whole grains, and limit unhealthy fats. The Mediterranean diet has been associated with lower risks of heart disease, cancer, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Other studies have used a Finnish diet, DASH and MIND diets.

Key components these diets have in common: Plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes (peas, beans and peanuts).

Healthy fats such as replacing butter with olive oil, sticking to lowfat dairy. Omega-3 fats are important, with sources including cold-water fish (salmon, tuna and trout), seaweed, or supplements.

Limit read meat to no more than a few times a month, eating fish and poultry at least twice a week.

Limit salt to no more than 5 g/day.

The physical exercise recommendations are for muscle strengthening 1-3 times per week; and aerobic/ cardiovascular exercise 2-5 times per week.

Brain exercises include learning something new (musical instrument or language), building up reasoning and memory (puzzles, recall games).

Many of these are done on computers and smart devices!

Finally, social activities are important. They help to promote new connections between brain cells. It helps to reduce stress, and laughter is often the best medicine.

Dr. Carmen McIntyre is the Chief Medical Officer at Detroit Wayne Mental Health Authority. If you have a question for Dr. McIntyre, please submit it to AskTheDr@dwmha.com

Knight Cities Challenge awards $5 million to make Detroit, other communities successful

By Lee Claire The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation today announced that 33 innovative projects will share $5 million as winners of the Knight Cities Challenge. Each of the ideas centers on helping cities attract and keep talented people, expand economic opportunities and create a culture of civic engagement.

The Knight Foundation has invested $1.5 million over three years in Detroit’s Strategic Neighborhood Fund, a public-private partnership between the City of Detroit and Invest Detroit. This initiative is working to show that neighborhood redevelopment can be done in financially sound, sustainable and inclusive ways in the city.

“The Knight Cities Challenge works to uncover the ideas, people and collaborations that help to advance deeper civic engagement and contribute to city success,” said Sam Gill, Knight Foundation vice president for communities and impact. “The winners join a network of civic innovators who are showing us the ways in which our cities can shape their futures to help solve pressing challenges and create new opportunities.”

The challenge attracted more than 4,500 ideas to make communites more vibrant places to live and work.

It asked innovators of all kinds to answer the question: What’s your best idea to make cities more successful? Five projects in Detroit are receiving portions of the $5 million pool.

“Building a network of thriving neighborhoods in Detroit is essential to attracting and keeping talent in the city, and creating new economic opportunities for all,” said Katy Locker, Knight Foundation program director for Detroit. “The Strategic Neighborhood Fund will help support the growth of more small businesses in Detroit, bring people of different backgrounds and income levels to-

gether, and create more of the kind of places where people want to live.”

The 33 winners in cities throughout the nation proposed a host of ideas, from further enlivening the Detroit waterfront by creating an inviting, urban beach along the city’s Atwater Street, to promoting inter-community collaboratives and citizenship in the Motor City through bicycling.

“These Knight Cities Challenge winners will help to create avenues for people to contribute to their community.

Their ideas propose to bring together diverse residents, ensure talent thrives, and connect people to place, giving them a stake in city-building,” said George Abbott, Knight Foundation director for community and national initiatives.

Knight Foundation is a national foundation with strong local roots and is committed to facilitating successful partnerships in cities where brothers John S. and James L. Knight once published newspapers, including the Detroit Free Press. The foundation’s goal is to foster informed and engaged communities, which are essential for a healthy democracy.

Open to any individual, business, government or nonprofit, the Knight Cities Challenge has just two rules: (1) A submission may come from anywhere, but the project must take place in or benefit one or more of the 26 communities where Knight invests

and (2) the idea should focus on one or more of three drivers of city success: Talent: Ideas that help cities attract and keep talented people; Opportunity: Ideas that create economic prospects by breaking down divides and making new connections; Engagement: Ideas that spur connection and civic involvement.

Detroit’s 2017 Knight Cities Challenge winners: Atwater Beach, $225,000 (by Detroit RiverFront Conservancy; submitted by Jan Shimshock): Further activating the Detroit waterfront by creating an inviting, urban beach along the city’s Atwater Street.

Better Buildings, Better Blocks, $150,000 (by Building Community Value; submitted

by Chase Cantrell): Providing a pipeline for minorities into real estate jobs, by teaching the fundamentals of smallscale property development and providing initial project financing.

Design Center in a Box: A Place for Informed Community Exchange, $205,000 (by City of Detroit Planning and Development Department; submitted by Susan Burrows): Promoting civic engagement by creating pop-up city planning offices where residents can connect with city planning staff and others to exchange ideas and become informed about the design and planning work happening in their neighborhood and the city at large.

Detroit’s

Slow

Roll,

$129,400 (by Detroit Bike City; submitted by Jeff Herron): Leveraging the 25,000 cyclists who participate in Slow Roll Detroit and demonstrating how to engage Detroit’s nonprofit sector, drive renewal and smile while doing it.

Happy 18th Birthday! Local Citizenship Kit, $101,000 (by Citizen Detroit; submitted

by Sandra Yu Stahl): Celebrating Detroiters becoming eligible to vote by sending them a local citizenship kit in the mail on their 18th birthday The challenge opened in October 2016. Knight Foundation announced finalists in January.

Launched in 2014, the Knight Cities Challenge named a total of 69 winning ideas over its first and second years. Winners have created innovative solutions aimed at connecting people of all backgrounds and incomes, inviting people into active civic engagement and helping keep and attract talented people in their communities.

They include: The Institute of Hip-Hop Entrepreneurship, which uses hip-hop to provide hands-on business training to members of low-income groups including Re:Brand Detroit, which aims to spark reinvestment in Detroit’s neighborhoods through entrepreneurship.

For more on the Knight Cities Challenge, visit knightcities.org and http://kng.ht/ kcc2017. For information and updates follow @knightfdn and #knightcities on Twitter.

City of Detroit to Recognize Juneteenth as Annual Day of Black Economic Liberation Celebration to be held at Wayne County Community College Eastern Campus The City of Detroit will officially recognize Juneteenth as an annual day of black economic liberation. Council Member Janeé Ayers has introduced legislation to make this day an annual celebration. Additionally, the City of Detroit will be hosting an event at Wayne County Community College Eastern District, highlighting individuals that work to build wealth within the neighborhoods of Detroit.

Historically, Juneteenth is the day some of the last slaves in the country were freed.

While the Emancipation Proclamation was supposed to free slaves in the rebelling south, it was ignored by southern slave owners. It took two and a half years before the order was rec-

ognized in Galveston, Texas. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in the city and enforced President Lincoln’s proclamation, freeing the slaves. That day has since become known as Juneteenth and is celebrated throughout the country.

Force, which provides services for Detroit residents who are challenged with successfully reintegrating back into the community from the corrections system.

“By declaring Juneteenth an annual day of black economic liberation, our community not only remembers our past, but it also allows us to draw inspiration for our current struggles,” said community organizer Chris LeFlore. LeFlore, 22, created the event as a way to empower citizens to combat the current forms of oppression.

“Often times, when we are dealing with large scale forces such as gentrification and mass incarceration, we can feel powerless. We are not powerless. We just need to organize.”

Chattel slavery is the worst form of oppression African Americans have faced. However, it is not the only kind. Black people in this country have also been subjected to forms of economic oppression such as sharecropping and redlining. Today, there is a great deal of conversation regarding how mass incarceration and gentrification negatively impact African Americans.

The event at Wayne County Community College District’s Eastern Campus hopes to combat these current forms of economic oppression. Community leaders working to build wealth within the black community will be speaking on the evening

of Juneteenth at 6pm. Included are representatives from the Osborn Business Association, which works to foster entrepreneurship on the city’s eastside, and Operation HOPE, which of-

fers help with taxes and financial literacy services.

In addition, Council Member Janeé Ayers is cohosting the event and will speak about her Returning Citizens Task

This event is also part of a nationwide campaign by Bank Black USA, an organization working to build black wealth in cities across the country.

community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

June 14-20, 2017

Page B-2

Norma Dotson-Sales, former 36th District Court judge and Detroit icon passes at 80 Michigan Chroniclestaff reports

Detroit mourns the loss of one if its beloved treasures, the Honorable Norma Y. Dotson-Sales; retired 36th District Court Judge, former educator, community activist, and supporter of the arts. Born Norma Yvonne Dotson in Chicago, Illinois on July 16, 1937, and was baptized on March 9, 1945 at St. Benedict the Moor. In 1961, Norma and her husband moved to Detroit and raised five children, all of whom attended and graduated from the Detroit Public School system. Later in life she married Dr. Joseph Sales, a former Wayne State University Dean and Science Education Professor. Although Norma was not born in Detroit, she nevertheless was one of its most passionate cheerleaders.

Norma earned her Bachelors, Masters, and Juris Doctorate from Wayne State University and was recently honored as a “Treasure of Detroit” by the Wayne State University Law School. She also taught at various Detroit Public Schools including Cooper Elementary, Ralph E. Bunche Elementary, and Guest Elementary before pursuing a career in law. While attending law school, she became a proud, loyal, very active and Golden Life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. After graduating law school, Norma first practiced as a sole practitioner and later became a member of the legal staff at Michigan National Bank. In 1989, she was appointed Judge of the 36th District Court by Governor James Blanchard

where she served until retiring in 2003.

From her Riverfront apartment, Norma loved her spectacular view of the Detroit River with its many passing barges, often highlighted by the glowing lights of the Ambassador Bridge. Norma reveled in telling visitors stories about Detroit’s history and taking them on tours while pointing out many fascinating, cultural, and unique facets that continue to define Detroit. Norma and Joe, were long time patrons of the Detroit Arts community. Together, they enjoyed all forms of artistic expression and were members of National Council of Arts (NCA), Detroit Institute of Arts, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, the Detroit Zoo, the Detroit Science Center, Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, Detroit Opera House and many others.

Even after she retired, Norma continued to serve the city of Detroit. With several friends, she formed the group known as “Making Detroit Better,” which was instrumental in garnering support for the Detroit Charter Commission and City Council candidates. Norma was appointed by Mayor Michael Duggan, to serve on the City of Detroit Board of Ethics. She also served as a board member of many organizations including: Delta Service Through Detroit Foundation, Inc (DSTDFI); the Wayne County Council for the Arts; the City of Detroit Library Foundation; and the Michigan Export Development Authority. Additionally, Norma was a

see her smile, feel her warmth, hear her laughter; she still lives in each of us even now!

Norma Dotson-Sales member of numerous community organizations including Lifetime Membership in the NAACP, the National Conference of Negro Women, the National Conference of Arts, the Michigan District Judges Association, and the Association of Black Judges of Michigan, just to name a few.

A few of Norma’s greatest accomplishments were seeing all of her children graduate from college – a few blessed her even more with graduate degrees.

In all walks of life Norma positively impacted people with her words of wisdom, warm smile and giving heart. She humbly delighted in the success of others and continues to encourage us even now. Close your eyes…

Her love for Detroit extended to all aspects of the city from politics to education to community service. At a time when African American girls were not welcome in the local Brownies and Girl Scouts associations, Judge Dotson and her friends established their own Girl Scout and Brownie Troops and introduced many young girls to art, poetry, culture, cooking, sewing, and music. As a public school teacher, she often “adopted” her students and welcomed them to her home where they played with her own children. Her home was known as the “Kool-Aid” house because her house was always full of her own children in addition to her students, girl scouts, and neighborhood children who were always welcome there. As she moved about the city, Judge Dotson was often recognized by many of her former students and girl scouts who expressed their gratitude to Judge Dotson-Sales for the many ways in which she inspired them to achieve their life goals.

Norma made her transition on Friday, June 9, 2017, and leaves behind to cherish her memory her devoted and loving husband Dr. Joseph Sales; sister Denise LaMonte; five children, Leslie Holland Pryor (Edward), Victoria Gray (Stoner), ReBecca Holland, Sharon Poindexter (Michael), son Steven Holland (Deirdre). Her seven grandchildren, LaMonte Holland (Luz), Nicholas, Devin,

Yemko, Gji-Mi-Ya, Michael and Ora; four great-grandchildren Kaya, Dogon, Anwar, and Norma Niani; a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins; and an abundance of extended family, including step-son Joseph Sales, Jr. and friends from all walks of life.

Visitation for Norma will be at Swanson Funeral Home North West Chapel 14751 West McNichols, Detroit, Michigan, 48235. Homegoing services will be held at Ebenezer African Methodist Episcopal Church, 5151 W. Chicago Blvd. on Saturday, June 17, 2017. Family Hour beginning at 10:00 am, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Omega Omega Ceremony at 11:00 am and Service at 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that her memory be honored with donations to the Norma Dotson-Sales HBCU Scholarship Fund. Please make checks payable to DSTDFI, P.O. Box 441921, Detroit, MI 482441921. (on memo line add Norma Dotson-Sales HBCU Scholarship).

Public Viewing - Friday, June 16 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Swanson Funeral Home.14751 W. McNichols Family Hour will be held on Sat, June 17 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Delta Omega Omega Service 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Funeral at 11:30 a.m. at Ebenezer AME Church, 5151 W. Chicago Blvd Interment will take place at Elmwood Cemetery

New Center Community Services Partners with ABC Mobile Vision to Open Community Vision Clinic New Center Community Services is partnering with ABC Mobile Vision to open its first community vision clinic for consumers and the community. Opened on June 12, 2017, NCCS will provide complete vision care to those they currently serve as well individuals and families in the neighboring community. Blue Cross Complete, Blue Cross/BlueShield, Blue Care Network, Meridian, Total Health Care, Spectra and Medicaid Insurance are accepted. Walk-Ins are accepted as well.

Appointments can be made for the second and fourth Tuesday’s by calling 313.263.0350.

“As part of our commitment to bring integrated health to New Center Community Services, we are pleased to welcome the team from ABC Mobile Vision to our Grand Dex facility,” said Joy D Calloway, New Center Community Services CEO/President.

“Our newly opened Vision Clinic is a great compliment to our Dental Clinic, and offers another resource to the community and

our consumers in providing the best, quality and comprehensive care we have been offering since 1979.”

NCCS is also still accepting appointments in their dental clinic that opened in February of this year. The dental clinic is also servicing consumers and the community. Delta Dental and Medicaid are accepted. The dental clinic is open Wednesday through Friday and appointments can be made by calling 313.961.3743 Headquartered in the City of

Detroit, New Center Community Services is a private non-profit community mental health center committed to providing and promoting quality behavioral health services in a caring and safe environment. This commitment is reaffirmed daily by more than 150 employees, including psychiatrists, professional mental health workers, certified peer support specialists, and nurses.

a full-spectrum of mental health services ranging from highly intensive and complex therapeutic and medicinal interventions to low-intensity socialization and support programs. Accredited by The Joint Commission (TJC) since the 1987, New Center Community Services is also recognized by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) as a Certified Community Mental Health Center.

Founded in 1979, NCCS has five locations and offers more than 5,400 children and adults

For more information, please contact Jennifer Dale at jldale@ newcentercmhs.org.

A Speakers Forum

FORUM IV

CEO Outlook June 15, 2017 • 7:30 a.m.

Detroit Athletic Club 241 Madison Avenue, Detroit, MI 48226 Panelists

Dr. William F. Pickard

Matthew J. Simoncini

Cindy Pasky

Gerard M. Anderson

Dr. William F. Pickard

Chairman & CEO, Global Automotive Alliance

Matthew J. Simoncini President & CEO, Lear Corporation

Cindy Pasky

Founder, President & CEO, Strategic Staffing Solutions

Gerard M. Anderson Chairman & CEO, DTE Energy Presented by

Media Partners:

Join the conversation

#PancakesandPolitics17

community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

June 14-20, 2017

Page B-3

Detroiters gear up for biggest Neighborhoods Day celebration in nation More than 200 churches, community groups, block clubs and businesses are expected to take part of the 11th annual ARISE Detroit! Neighborhoods on Saturday, Aug, 5, a massive citywide community service day.

Last year, more than 300 groups registered for Neighborhoods Day activities, involving hundreds of organizations and thousands of volunteers, making it the largest Neighborhoods Day event of its kind in the nation, according to ARISE Detroit!

For the second year in a row, The DTE Energy Foundation is the presenting sponsor for Neighborhoods Day. Through the support of its major sponsors, ARISE Detroit! is once again providing vouchers for more than 100 beautification and cleanup projects on Neighborhoods Day. Those vouchers, available only to groups that have registered their projects for Neighborhoods Day, can be redeemed for supplies and materials at three AAA True Value Hardware stores in Detroit.

Local businesses also will deploy volunteers on Neighborhoods Day at sites across the city.

Groups can register for Neighborhoods Day at www. arisedetroit.org or phone, 313921-1955. For a $50 registration fee, participating groups will receive custom made banners with the names of their organizations, t-shirts and vouchers for hardware supplies for cleanup and beautification projects. Groups can also register for Neighborhoods Day resources if they are hosting other events throughout the month of August.

Neighborhoods Day events and activities will be found throughout the city, stretching from the Detroit Riverfront to Eight Mile Road. Events will also be held in late July and throughout the month of August as interest in participating in Neighborhoods Day, if not on the actual day, has continued to grow.

“Neighborhoods Day has become a uniquely Detroit event and the scale of it is unrivaled

by any community in the nation to our knowledge,” said Luther Keith, executive director of ARISE Detroit! All Detroiters should be proud for presenting this positive side of the city that reflects, pride, work and hope.”

There will be numerous festivals, educational events, cleanup projects, garden planting, and volunteer initiatives with local businesses joining hands with city residents and suburbanites.

Numerous churches and faith-based institutions will participate, along with numerous block clubs, community organizations and small businesses.

Major sponsors include the Kresge Foundation, Detroit Future City, the Knight Foun-

dation, Meijer, Impact Detroit, Blue Cross Blue Shield and MGM Grand Detroit.

ARISE Detroit! has promoted and marketed nearly 2,000 events held in connection with Neighborhoods Day since it began in 2007.

Other Neighborhoods Day highlights this year will include: ■ Cleanup and beautification projects: More than 100 neighborhood volunteer cleanup projects will be held by block clubs and various community associations.

■ Faith-based support: More than 40 churches and faithbased institutions will do everything from community cleanups to back-to-school

fairs, youth events and gospel concerts.

■ Youth sports: A youth golf tournament hosted by the Hollywood Golf Institute at Palmer Park. They will be joined by a team from Harlem, New York.

■ Back-to-School events: Thousands of backpacks with school supplies will be collected and distributed at several sites across the city.

■ Community festivals: There will be scores of festivals and music concerts, headlined by the Gratiot Splash on the lower east side, featuring entertainment and presentations by civic leaders, the Belle Isle Art Fair, the Bringing In Change Festival in Northeast Detroit and Jazz on the Ave, on Livernois between Seven Mile and

Eight Mile roads.

■ Art exhibits: The second annual Belle Isle Art Fair will be held Aug. 5-6. A Sidewalk Performing Arts Festival will be held at the Artist Village in northwest Detroit, featuring more than 30 performers on city streets..

Volunteering For Neighborhoods Day: Groups and individuals can volunteer for Neighborhoods Day by going to the website, www.arisedetroit.org, clicking the event list and contacting groups that have listed projects.

For more information on Neighborhoods Day call 313-921-1955 or visit www.arisedetroit.org. ARISE Detroit! is located at 5555 Conner, Suite 1233, Detroit, MI 48213.

For the biggest little moments in life.

Whatever’s happening in your life, our card gives you the confidence that comes from knowing you have the right coverage from the most preferred, most trusted health insurer in Michigan.

GROUP HEALTH PLANS

MICHIGAN

|

INDIVIDUAL PLANS

|

DENTAL

|

VISION

|

BCBSM.COM

DOWNLOAD OUR MOBILE APP

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are nonprofit corporations and independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

BCB139035_MIChron_Mobile_App_F1.indd 1

6/8/17 11:28 AM

HIRAM E. JACKSON Publisher

A Real Times Media Newspaper 479 Ledyard • Detroit, MI 48201

(313) 963-5522

KEITH A. OWENS Senior Editor SAMUEL LOGAN Publisher 1933-2011

e-mail: newsdesk@michronicle.com June 14-20, 2017

CATHY NEDD Associate Publisher

Page B-4

JOHN H. SENGSTACKE Chairman-Emeritus 1912-1997 LONGWORTH M. QUINN Publisher-Emeritus 1909-1989

Speed demons increase car fatalities

By Linda Simmons The fast and furious, most reckless drivers cannot ease the pain of family and friends who suffer the loss of loved ones tragically killed, or severely injured in car related accidents. Many speed showboaters couldn’t care less about endangering the lives of others, anytime and anyplace.

Unfortunately, these adrenaline junkies get off on high-powered cars like Dodge Challengers SRT Hellcat, Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack, Ford Mustang GT, Chevrolet Camero SS, Kia K900, Ford Mustang Shelby, Hyundai Genesis, Chrysler 300, and so on. Depending on the features, these high performance muscle cars, can hit 60 mph in 3 to 5.5 seconds Lead-foot-speeders say what’s the point in driving muscle cars if you can’t burn rubber, do donuts, drag race, speed and floss. There are no-holds-barred to where they flex their muscles, including parks, schools, neighborhoods and during rush hour traffic. Bullying other drivers, tailgating, running stop signs and red lights, gives them a feeling of power. In short, their “get-the-hell-outof-my-way” attitude makes them feel like kings of the streets.

“There is no other feeling like pushing the pedal to the medal, revving up the engine and flying in the wind. It’s like rebelling gravity,” says 25-year-old J Wo, the owner of a boosted up Impala.

“The euphoric feeling is very powerful.”

Ian, 32, states, “I love the adrenaline rush and intensity of speeding in my muscle car, but I hate the stupidly of speed demons driving reckless in neighborhoods where kids play in schools, parks and residential areas. I would never speed unless it was totally safe to.”

Retired police officer Marsha S. states that during her 30 years of service, she’s

never seen such total disregard for the speed limit and safety for others.

Recently, Dr. Timothy Careathers, Wayne County Community College professor, lost the apple of his eye, Angel Careathers, his 21-year-old granddaughter, along with her 21-year-old fiancé Zachariah Garrison. While parked at a public park to walk their dog, a 36-yearold speed demon hit a curb, causing the airborne car to land on theirs, killing them instantly. Their sisters seated in the back were seriously injured; the dog was unscathed but brokenhearted.

Dr. Careathers states that he’s praying for the families, but insists that thefullest-extent-of-the-law is implemented.

Detroit’s Grand River is a hot spot for speeders. Recently, a speed maniac crashed into and killed an elderly man who was driving too slowly on this street. Also, a drag racer crashed into a hair salon; fortunately no one was injured.

Michigan accident statistics are currently being counted for 2017; 2016 was reportedly the deadliest in years. The Office of Highway Safety Planning reported in 2016, 306,779 auto accidents across the state. 78,371 people were injured in car crashes over those 12 months, and there were over 1,047 fatalities. This is the first time Michigan traffic deaths hit the 1,000 mark since 2007, and is expected to rise. Moreover, the crash reporting units state that fatalities are increasing nationwide. Experts say that the increase in car crashes and fatalities is due in part to lower unemployment rates, lower gas rates, more cars on the road, texting while driving, talking on cell phones and speed demons.

Let’s not lose our streets, neighborhoods, schools and parks to speed bullies. We never know who will be hit, injured or killed next.

Area track and field personalities to be honored

By Dr. John Telford Former old Miller High and U-M star Aaron Gordon and I founded the Detroit Track & Field Old-Timers, Inc. in 1991. Since then, the group has honored many old-time area track & field athletes at its annual dinners and donated thousands of dollars to interscholastic and age-group track programs in DPS and in and around the city.

Interna- John Telford tional and All-American speedsters the organization has lauded over the years include Kettering’s Deon Hogan, Pershing’s Darnell Hall, old Eastern’s Lou Scott, Northern’s Marshall Dill, Pershing’s Wendy Truvillion, Pontiac and the Detroit Varsity Club’s Hayes Jones, Downtown Judy Brown, the Detroit Track Club’s Jim Bibbs, Northwestern’s great “Gray Ghost” Henry Carr, Central’s Cliff Hatcher, old Chadsey’s Karen Dennis, and Denby Tars Ronnie Phillips and Yours Truly. Native Detroiters who did their interscholastic running elsewhere include Chronicle Senior Editor Keith Owens and track historian Keith McClellan. This year’s dinner will take place on Friday, June 25, at 6:00 p.m.in the Barth Hall of the Cathedral Church of St. Paul at the corner of Woodward and Warren Avenue. The ticket price is $25 ($45 for two), which includes dinner, dessert, and a complementary wine table. There will be free and ample parking, and tickets will be available at the door.

Honorees this year are Martin Crane, Eliot Tabron, Dennis Holland, Frank McBride, Jill Washburn, Allan Tellis, and Bruce Waha. In addition, there will be a special tribute to Ella Willis, the first African-American woman to ever win a marathon--a lady who should be in the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame. Local high school stars will also be special guests.

Marty Crane coached 83 All-State athletes at Flint Beecher High School, where his teams won 10 state, 13 conference, and 19 regional titles. Detroit Murray-Wright alumnus Eliot Tabron was Wayne State’s last track All-American, and he was threatening my quarter-mile mark there when he transferred to MSU and attained world ranking in the 400 meters with an MSU mark of 45 seconds flat. At the time of his transfer, WSU had de-emphasized its historic and celebrated track program, which the Old-Timers organization has been trying to get restored and get a track fieldhouse built on the campus. (I’m on that WSU committee with Darnell Hall, WSU athletic director Rob Fournier, Lisa

Howze from the Mayor’s office, old Chadsey High trackman Elliott Hall, Coleman Young, and Old-Timers president Randy Williams.) Dennis Holland was a star quarter-miler and long jumper at Redford High, and his 26’3” college jump for WMU remains the longest in state history--only five inches short of the immortal Jesse Owens’ world-record leap. A fond memory I have of Dennis was taking him and another Detroit high school star to a big all-comers meet in Dayton. I was teaching and coaching at Southeastern High School that year, and I was attempting a brief comeback. I won the open quarter-mile and then took the two kids and another local runner onto a relay team with me. Representing the Detroit Track Club, we beat all the college and club teams in the last race of the meet-the mile relay--in a huge upset, and brought home four gold medals. Frank McBride, who coached me in that brief comeback, succeeded legendary Coach David L. Holmes at WSU in 1958 and did him proud. An Olympic Trial finalist at 1,500 meters in 1952, McBride--who was a superb motivator--piloted WSU teams to seven conference titles. Jill Washburn, a state cross-country champion, has held the mile and two-mile marks at Rochester High for thirty years and is in the school’s hall of fame. She was an All-American at Michigan State. Northwestern High School alumnus Al Tellis, a past Old-Timers president, ran with me at the Penn Relays for WSU in 1954 and succeeded me coaching champions at Pershing High. He was also instrumental to bringing girls’ track to DPS. Old Detroit Cooley High School and WSU shot putter Bruce Waha--in his nineties now--coached Redford High School track and cross-country teams to championships fourteen times. Then he went to Howell High and his teams there won five more titles. His 54year track-coaching record is 404 wins and only 13 losses, and his 22-year cross-country record is 397-17.

Detroit has many old and many upand-coming new young track & field stars who are yet to be honored by the Detroit Track & Field Old-Timers. Come to the DT&FOT Dinner on June 23 to support the grand old All-American and Olympic sport of track & field here in our town--and enjoy a very good meal. .

Dr. John Telford was an NCAA and NAAU All-American quarter-miler in 1957, his senior year at WSU, when he went unbeaten representing the U.S. team in Europe. Hear him Sundays at 3:00on NewsTalk1200, and get his five Detroit-oriented books at Barnes & Noble or at amazon.com. A recent pro bono Superintendent of the Detroit Public Schools under state-imposed emergency financial management, he can be contacted at (313) 460-8272 or at DrJohnTelfordEdD@aol.com. His website is www.AlifeontheRUN.com.

Civil Rights Coalition demands affordable housing, mortgage access

By Charlene Crowell As the Senate Banking Committee turns its attention to reform the nation’s secondary mortgage market, civil rights leaders recently spoke in a strong and united voice. For these national organizations, the housing finance system must embrace -- not abandon-- its obligation to provide broad access and affordability in mortgage lending.

In a June 6 letter to Committee Chairman and Ranking Member, Senators Mike Crapo (ID) and Sherrod Brown (OH), were advised that any emerging legislation for the secondary housing finance market must set in place guidelines to protect against unlawful discrimination. Charlene Crowell A second and equally important requirement is for all credit-worthy borrowers have access to the mortgage credit they deserve.

Signing the letter was a broad coalition of activists: The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, NAACP, National Urban League, National Council of La Raza, National Coalition for Asian Pacific American Community Development, National Fair Housing Alliance, National Community Reinvestment Coalition, and the Center for Responsible Lending (CRL).

Together they wrote, “Any reform of the secondary mortgage market must ensure access and affordability to mortgage credit for all creditworthy potential homebuyers in all regions of the nation. . . Diminishing the role and importance that the secondary housing finance systems plays in achieving this goal will continue to deepen the racial wealth gap that already exists in America today.”

The current public policy debate on the secondary mortgage market has its roots in the foreclosure crisis that began in 2007. Lax federal regulation and excessive risk-taking by Wall Street firms led to a housing boom where investors chased profits on unsustainable mortgage loans. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, two government-sponsored enterprises also known as GSEs, followed that market trend, hoping to capture profits for their investors. This led to them facing losses that resulted in their being placed into conservatorship by the federal government.

Like many other private firms, the GSEs received a financial bailout from the U.S. Treasury Department to avoid a complete market meltdown. Eventually and as authorized by Congress in the Troubled Asset Relief Program, or TARP, a $187 billion taxpayer investment saved the GSEs out of the total of $698 billion in rescue funds. Even today, the GSEs remain under conservatorship.

But with the housing market stabilized, multiple calls have urged legislative reform of Fannie and Freddie, despite some reforms already enacted.

For communities of color, the next decade is projected to demographically change to majority minority. According to the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard, seven out of every 10 new households formed will be families of color. In addition, the future of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac is tied to several statutory mandates that include requirements for the GSEs to share re-

sponsibility in reaching affordable housing goals, as well as access to credit that is free from discrimination.

In a broad sense, today’s public policy housing debate is also an opportunity to learn from the mistakes of the past and craft new policies that will avoid their recurrence.

“The nation’s housing finance system has never worked for people of color,” noted Lisa Rice, Executive Vice President of the National Fair Housing Alliance. “The system was originally and purposefully designed to exclude these consumers. That construct infused barriers to equal access into the system and those barriers have never been unwound.”

“As a result people of color face grave difficulties when trying to access credit,” added Rice. “This means that the Affordable Housing Goals must be strengthened and the resources and resolve to achieve them must be set in place.”

“Because the mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have a special relationship with the federal government, they also have special responsibilities to the public as well,” said Vanita Gupta, president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights.

“Most importantly, part of their business has to be based in low-income communities that have historically been underserved,” Gupta continued. “If Congress decides to overhaul the housing finance system, any entities that take the place of Fannie and Freddie and enjoy the same protections must also meet the same responsibilities.”

As the housing market continues to grapple with historical discrimination that resulted in persistent and growing racial wealth gaps, it must also adapt to new 21st Century challenges as well.

Many millennials are shunning or delaying homeownership due to heavy student debt. Future policies must find a way to serve a diverse marketplace and protect taxpayers from more financial bailouts.

Among remedies offered for thoughtful debate and action include: 1. Enforce the GSEs obligations that guarantee sustainable access to credit and affordable housing – especially for low-to-moderate income consumers living in underserved communities. These are the same consumers who have been left out of the nation’s financial recovery.

2. Authorize the recapitalization of both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac with guidelines that allow a reasonable economic return.

3. Curb the practice of added costs to mortgage loan originations, fees that add costs to the mortgage origination costs known as loan level price adjustments or LLPAs. These fees lock out 5.2 million potential borrowers due to unnecessarily tight credit restrictions.

4. Fully fund HUD’s Housing Trust Fund.

“Access and affordability are central tenants of the nation’s housing finance system. Two others are safety and soundness,” said Nikitra Bailey, CRL Executive Vice President. “Any GSE reform must protect affordable housing goals and advance the GSEs’ duty to serve. All credit-worthy consumer in every region of the nation should have a real opportunity to pursue their homeownership dreams.

community

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

June 14-20, 2017

Page B-5

Spring Arbor University announces new online Bachelor of Social Work program

Youth Development Commission receives in-kind donation from Sherwin-Williams

Cleveland, Ohio-based Sherwin-Williams, as a part of its 2017 National Painting Week program, chose the Youth Development Commission (ydcdetroit.org) to be the recipient of an in-kind donation of paint and labor on Monday, May 15.

This act of corporate citizenship was greatly appreciated as the Commission works to enhance the lives of children and youth, provides quality programs and services, and strengthens the skills of those who serve them.

Youth Development President/ CEO Robert D. Counts stated, “It was great to fuse and engage Sherwin-Williams into our youth development fabric as we continue to impact our communities and schools.

The paint project enhanced and

By Alisha Dixon

brightened our space, making it more attractive to you and families.

We appreciate the entire SW family and their commitment to Detroit and beyond.”

This non-budgeted gift is adding to the corporate relationships that are being garnered by the commission in order to sustain operations for the 2017 program year. In addition to the donated labor that was provided by Sherwin-Williams, youth from the AmeriCorps program also participated in the success of the project.

The Sherwin- Williams team was spearheaded by Andy Samoray, manager of the Sherwin-Williams located at 3410 Washtenaw Ave. in Ann Arbor.

Samoray stated, “Special thanks to our Detroit Sherwin-Williams team for donating their day to brighten the office of such a great organization. We all had a great time and I hope we can continue working together moving forward.”

For more information on how your business or civic-minded organization can support the Youth Development Commission please contact the Development Office at 313.446.8123 or email at asmcdonald@ydcdetroit.org.

All contributions to the Youth Development Commission are tax-deductible by federal law. Contributions can also be made on the Givelify app which is available on both Google Play and Apple Store.

Spring Arbor University, a nonprofit, faithbased institution, has announced the addition of a Bachelor of Social Work to its online program portfolio. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, SAU’s online BSW emphasizes problem solving, values and ethics.

Spring Arbor University’s online programs allow students to balance their professional lives with their learning endeavors, as they can log on, attend classes and complete assignments at times that are most convenient for them.

Since 1873, Spring Arbor University has helped students pursue wisdom by offering an education grounded in the Christian faith. What began as a small elementary and secondary school in the late 1800’s has evolved into a top-tier, liberal arts, and Christian university with more than 3,000 enrolled students.

The online BSW allows students from around the globe to complete a 33-credit social work degree 100 percent online.

The program is open to anyone with a high school diploma.

The online BSW is designed to encourage close connections among students, faculty and staff.

Spring Arbor University now offers more than 70 undergraduate majors and programs, degree completion programs, associate programs and graduate programs. With programs presented on campus, online and on site at 12 locations throughout Michigan and Ohio, the university continues to meet the growing needs of its students.

In Introduction to Social Work (SWK281) students will gain faculty mentors who will shepherd them through their upper level courses and fieldwork internship.

By the end of the program, students will be prepared to provide services to individuals, groups, families and organizations.

DPSCD, Ford Motor Company Fund host STEMFest

DPSCD’s Fisher Magnet Upper Academy and the Flying Classroom in partnership with the Ford Motor Company Fund hosted STEMFest to expose students to science, technology, engineering and math via projects developed by the districts Career and Technical Education program.

“Ford recognizes, that people and students really learn by doing. Whether it was science projects or being able to touch the car that 50 DPSCD CTE students built or to see Barrington Irving fly in. It was really and opportunity for the students to get up close and personal with STEM and STEAM and understand how it impacts every

part of their world, every part of their day,” said Shawn Wilson, multicultural manager of the Ford Motor Company Fund.

Each year, the Ford Fund invests over $18 million in scholarships and education initiatives all over the world such as the Ford Blue Oval Scholars, Ford Next Generation Learning, Ford College Community Challenge, Ford Driving Dreams Tour and Ford STEAM Lab.

“The Fisher Upper school is actually the new site for the Ford Resource and Engagement Center. Last October we announced that Ford would be making a $5 million investment and commitment to that neighborhood, and that school specifically by opening up a Ford

Resource and Engagement Center which provides students and family with services from basic needs to economic growth to quality of life,” Wilson said.

At STEMFest, students participated in over 15 activities created by the Flying Classroom. The activities included Build an Igloo, Catapult, Sea Snake, Hoop Plane and more as a way to show students some of the ways they can use STEM to inspire them to participate in the CTE program. Experience Aviation provided instructional support for STEMFest through the principles outlined in Ford’s STEAM Lab digital curriculum.

DPSCD’s CTE program provides students with pathways to careers in automotive,

business administration, construction trades, culinary arts, drafting/design, technology and more through its courses.

STEMFest students were able to see a 1965 Ford Daytona Coupe, designed by Factory Five Racing Inc. and rebuilt by 50 Breithaupt Career and Technical Center students. The car, reassembled over 18 weeks, now features a Ford TK5 transmission, new rear independent suspension, a 306 Ford engine and a 350 horsepower engine through support provided by the Ford Fund.

After arriving at STEMFest via helicopter, Captain Barrington Irving, the youngest person to fly a plane around the world solo and founder of Experience Aviation, spoke about

the importance of supporting students and encouraging them to study STEM. “The whole point of it is to show the practicality between science and math. So many times we talk to kids and we beat them up rather that just show them what they can do and simulate all these different fun aspects in the realm of science, technology, math, engineering or arts. That’s what we want them so see,” said Irving.

“If you look around right now, there is no child on their cellphone and everyone is engaged. There are no disciplinary issues. We have to elevate the levels of expectation for kids from the Detroit Public Schools. ”

ONE DAY SALE 20

OUR LOWEST PRICES OF THE SEASON— JUST IN TIME FOR FATHER’S DAY!

$

OFF TILL 2PM

SELECT PURCHASES OF $50+

Exclusions apply; see below

20

% OFF ALL DAY

SELECT SALE ITEMS

Exclusions apply; see below

25

$

FREE SHIPPING ONLINE

6/16-6/17

Exclusions apply; see macys.com/freereturns

SHOP 3PM-CLOSING THURS, JUNE 15 & 9AM-11PM FRI & SAT, JUNE 16 & 17 Hours may vary by store.

See macys.com & click on stores for local information.

JUST FOR MACY’S CARDHOLDERS! USE YOUR CARD & GET AN

20%

USE THIS SAVINGS PASS THURS 3PM-CLOSING OR ’TIL 2PM FRI OR SAT

EXTRA DOLLARS OFF SELECT SALE CLOTHING & HOME ITEMS

EXTRA OFF $ SELECT SALE CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES EXTRA 15% OFF SELECT SALE JEWELRY, WATCHES, SHOES, COATS, SUITS, DRESSES, LINGERIE, SWIM FOR HER, MEN’S SUIT SEPARATES & SPORT COATS & HOME ITEMS VALID 3PM-CLOSE 6/15-6/17/2017.

EXCLUSIONS APPLY.

2O OFF

YOUR PURCHASE OF $50 OR MORE. LIMIT ONE PER CUSTOMER.

EXCLUSIONS APPLY.

EXCLUDES ALL: Deals of the Day, Doorbusters, Everyday Values (EDV), Last Act, Macy’s Backstage, specials, Super Buys, athletic clothing/shoes/accessories, baby gear, cosmetics/ fragrances, designer jewelry/watches, designer sportswear, electrics/electronics, furniture/ mattresses, gift cards, jewelry trunk shows, maternity, select licensed depts., previous purchases, rugs, services, shoes for her, smart watches/jewelry, special orders, special purchases, select tech accessories, toys, 3Doodler, Apple Products, Avec Les Filles, Barbour, Brahmin, Breville, Brooks Brothers Red Fleece, COACH, Dyson, Eileen Fisher SYSTEM, Fitbit, Frye, Hanky Panky, Jack Spade, Kate Spade, KitchenAid Pro Line, Le Creuset, Levi’s, littleBits, Locker Room by Lids, Marc Jacobs, select Michael Kors/Michael Michael Kors, Michele watches, Movado Bold, Natori, Original Penguin, Rudsak, Sam Edelman, Shun, Stuart Weitzman, Tempur-Pedic mattresses, The North Face, Theory, Tory Burch, Tumi, UGG®, Vans, Vitamix, Wacoal, Wolford & Wüsthof. Macys.com is excluded from $20 off pass. PLUS, ONLINE ONLY: kids’ shoes, Allen Edmonds, Birkenstock, Hurley, Johnston & Murphy, Merrell, RVCA & Tommy Bahama. Cannot be combined with any savings pass/coupon, extra discount or credit offer except opening a new Macy’s account. Dollar savings are allocated as discounts off each eligible item, as shown on receipt. When you return an item, you forfeit the savings allocated to that item. This coupon has no cash value and may not be redeemed for cash or applied as payment or credit to your account. Extra savings % applied to reduced prices.

Purchase must be $50 or more, exclusive of tax and delivery fees.

ONE DAY SALE PRICES IN EFFECT 3PM-CLOSING 6/15-6/17/2017. Our lowest prices of the season refers to our summer season May 1-July 31, 2017; prices may be lowered for clearance.

Page B-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • June 14-20, 2017

DIGITAL DAILY WWW.MICHIGANCHRONICLE.COM

At Your Finger Tips!

Follow Us On

facebook.com/michiganchronicle

@michronicle

SECTION C

BUSINESS

June 14-20, 2017

Powered by Real Times Media

michiganchronicle.com

150 CEOs of major corporations make commitment to advance diversity and inclusion

By Alisha Dixon Following the announcement of the CEO Coalition initative, Diane Antishin, vice president of HR Operations at DTE Energy, revealed that Gerry Anderson, CEO of DTE Energy, has joined the CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion — one of the largest CEO-driven efforts of its kind — and pledged to advance the principles of diversity and inclusion in the workplace and establish policies to bring those ideals to fruition.

“Diversity and inclusion are already high priority for our company, and we’ve made tremendous progress independently. But the power of the CEO pledge is in the collective impact of America’s largest companies coming together and unified to make positive change in the workplace,” he said.

“By joining this coalition, DTE Energy’s CEO and 150 of his peers are committing to support open dialogue on sometimes difficult conversations about diversity and inclusion, and implement unconscious bias education to help employees recognize and minimize potential blind spots … For DTE Energy, diversity isn’t only about race or gender. It’s about recognizing what makes our employees, suppliers and customers unique and applying those perspectives and talents to how we do business.”

George Johnson (left), managing director of George Johnson & Co., and Anthony R. McCree, managing partner

Anthony R. McCree, CPA: Managing partner of excellence with George Johnson & Co.

By Donald James Special to the Chronicle

As managing partner of Detroit-based George Johnson & Co. (GJC), Anthony R. McCree, CPA, oversees the day-to-day operations of one of metropolitan Detroit’s largest certified public accounting and consulting firms. GJC specializes in such services as auditing, taxation, fraud assessment, management policy and many other aspects of public accountings.

More than 150 CEOs made the commitment and signed an agreement pledging “to cultivate a workplace where diverse perspectives and experiences are welcomed and respected, where employees feel comfortable and encouraged to discuss diversity and inclusion, and where best known — and unsuccessful — actions can be shared across organizations.”

Since joining GJC in April, 2016, McCree has consistently rendered excellence in scheduling and supervising audits of employee benefits plans, non-profit organizations and governmental organizations, all of which are in compliance with Government Auditing Standards. In his scope of responsibilities, McCree oversees more than 17 CPAs and their respective services to clients. GJC also has an office in Chicago, where McCree gives leadership to its operational and client services delivery team and system.

A steering committee of corporate leaders from over 50 industries that includes CEOs from Accenture, BCG, Deloitte U.S., The Executive Leadership Council, EY, General Atlantic, KPMG, New York Life, P&G and PwC will lead all CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion efforts.

“We are living in a world of complex divisions and tensions that can have a significant impact on our work environment. Yet, it’s often the case that when we walk into our workplace where we spend the majority of our time, we don’t openly address these topics,” said Tim Ryan, U.S. chairman and senior partner of PwC and chair of the steering committee for the CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion.

“CEOs across the country understand this isn’t a competitive issue, but a societal issue, and together we can raise the bar for the entire business community. By sharing best known actions and programs, we are helping to create a more inclusive environment that will encourage all of us to bring our greatest talents, perspectives and experiences to the workplace.”

With CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion, each corporate leader agrees to take the following steps to increase diversity and foster inclusion in each of their organizations and within the greater business community: • Continue to cultivate workplaces that support open dialogue on complex, and sometimes difficult, conversations about diversity and inclusion: Companies will create and maintain environments, platforms and forums where their employees feel comfortable reaching out to their colleagues to gain greater awareness of each other’s experiences and perspectives.

By encouraging an ongoing dialogue and not tolerating any incongruence with these values of openness, companies are building trust, encouraging compassion and open-mindedness and reinforcing their commitment to a

See Diversity Page C-2

Anthony R. McCree

“The history of George Johnson & Co. is impressive,” said McCree. “The firm was organized in 1971 through acquisition, following the merger of several regional firms, including that of the late Richard H. Austin, who was the first black CPA in Michigan, and who started the first black-owned CPA company in the state. I’m really proud to be a part of such a historic firm. I

want to be a significant part of continuing the great legacy that George Johnson began creating 46 years ago.”

Prior to accepting the managing partner position at GPA, McCree was a principal and licensed certified public accountant at UHY LLC, Certified Public Accountants for 14 years.

He began his accounting career at Coopers & Lybrand, before the firm merged with PricewaterhouseCoopers in 1998.

Raised on the city’s west side, McCree and the thought of becoming a CPA never met each other until college. A standout running back at Central High School, McCree received many of scholarship offers from colleges. He chose Hillsdale College.

“I actually entered Hillsdale College as a psychology major, but my freshman year I knew it was the wrong field for me,” McCree said. “One of my football teammates suggested that I major in business. Also, one of my professors at Hillsdale was a black CPA, which opened my eyes to accounting, and eventually becoming a CPA.” McCree was always very good at math in grade school through high school. After changing his major to accounting, in 1996, McCree graduated from Hillsdale College with a bachelor’s degree. Based on a great internship experience that he had with Coopers & Lybrand during his senior

See McCree Page C-2

Save the community, save the corporation

Future success of key Detroit businesses hinges on Detroit beyond downtown

By Keith A. Owens Senior Editor

One of the nagging questions that seems to attach itself to the Mackinac Policy Conference every year is whether all that great talk will translate into any measurable activity. I don’t know how many times I heard someone say something to the effect that, “Well, you know, Mackinac is Mackinac.”

I haven’t been attending Mackinac long enough to honestly gauge whether or not that’s true (this year was only my second visit in more than a decade, the other time being last year. My first Mackinac Conference was in 2004), but I do think there were definitely some interesting conversations to be had, not all of which took place on the designated menu.

Commentary

While on the island, I had the chance to talk with several attendees about their particular involvement in Detroit and its revitalization, and each conversation offered some valuable insights on various aspects of Detroit’s future as seen by those who are helping to shape it.

Faye Nelson, who for the last couple years has served as DTE Energy Foundation president, and Nancy Moody, who has been with DTE for more than 30 years and now serves as vice president of public affairs, both seemed excited about the massive level of community investment that the company has committed itself to in coming years as well as what has already been done. Both were willing to acknowledge that the image of DTE has improved in recent years, and has not always been so great in the community. In fact, DTE’s reputation for racial and cultural insensitivity were not exactly a secret both inside the company among its employees as well as beyond its doors. But the effort to change

course has been steady in recent years and it does appear to be sincere.

“It takes a long time to turn a great big ship around, and in that process during that time, we did have some ugly things that happened,” said Moody. “It’s been an evolution for me too. And I think, as with many organizations, it [the change in corporate culture] starts from the top”.

Nelson agreed.

“In order to change fully directionally, in order to create impact from a culture standpoint, you’ve gotta be able to be open, be honest, have a diverse group of people having that conversation that you’re getting advice and counsel from. And wanting

to make that difference. That’s what I’ve experienced since I’ve been at DTE,” she said.

Moving forward, “From a foundation standpoint, a significant amount of dollars are being directed to support the corporate citizenship responsibility through a philanthropic lens. … Our laser beam focus this year is on the education and employment space.

“I think it’s important that we look at other ways we can support the continued growth and revitalization of communities like Detroit, arts and culture being one area in particular.”

See Detroit Businesses Page C-5

business

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

McCree

year, the company offered McCree an accounting position fresh out of college. He accepted the position.

While constantly busy in his current position with GJC, McCree makes time to serve as a board member of the Detroit Police Athletic League (PAL), a nonprofit organization that organizes and facilitates youth sports leagues and programs across the city. Additionally, McCree is a member of the Detroit Economic Club and the National Association of Black Accountants.

He formerly served on the boards of Franklin-Wright Settlements, Inc. and Legal Aid and Defender Association, Inc.

Diversity culture of inclusivity.

• Implement and expand unconscious bias education: Companies commit to rolling out and/or expanding unconscious bias education within their companies in the form that best fits their specific culture and business.

By helping employees recognize and minimize any potential blind spots, companies can better facilitate

From page C-1 more open and honest conversations. Additionally, the initiative will be making non-proprietary unconscious bias education modules available to other organizations free of charge. This training will live on the unified hub, CEOAction.com.

• Share best-known, and unsuccessful actions: Companies commit to

working together to evolve existing diversity strategies by sharing successes and challenges with one another. This will include creating accountability systems within their companies to track their progress and share regular updates with each other in order to catalog effective programs and measurement practices.

Over the years, McCree has been recognized by various organizations for excelling in his accounting career, and for his commitment to empowering the community. In 2010, he was included by the Michigan Chronicle as one its of Men of Excellence. In 2011, Real Times Media recognized McCree’s achievements by including him in its “Who’s Who in Black Detroit” publication.

With great pride in Detroit, McCree is enjoying the city’s comeback, and the commitment George Johnson & Co. has maintained for the Motor City.

June 14-20, 2017

Page C-2

From page C-1 “We’ve been in Detroit since 1971,” said McCree, who in February will marry Moira Windon. “A lot of firms that were once here are moving back into Detroit, and companies that have never had a presence here are moving in. We’ve never left. We have made a strong commitment to Detroit, the community and various local organizations that we are here, and will continue to be here. It’s important for us to continue to make a measurable impact on the growth of Detroit.”

McCree also wants to help young African Americans learn more about opportunities in accounting and how to become a CPA. “We just don’t have enough young African Americans who are becoming CPAs,” he said. “So it’s important that we continue to educate our young African-American men and women about opportunities in the field. It’s also important for them to know that you don’t have to be great in math to become a CPA, but one must be able to think analytically.”

George Johnson & Co. is located in the Buhl Building, 535 Griswold St., Detroit, MI 48226. To contact the company or Anthony R. McCree, call 313.965.2655 or log on to www.gpccpa.com.

Peace. Love.

And Medicare.

You’ve got this. You’ve had a front row seat for the greatest changes in history. We think you can handle Medicare.

And HAP is here to help.

Turning 65 or retiring soon?

Get your FREE Medicare Made Simple kit – your guide to all things Medicare, from the experts at HAP. Featuring: • Important dates and deadlines • How to “speak Medicare” • Plan options • And more!

The more you know about Medicare plans and plan options, the better prepared you’ll be to make informed decisions about which plan can best meet your needs, help save you money and support your efforts to achieve a healthy lifestyle.

Request your FREE Medicare Made Simple kit!

Visit hap.org/brochure or call (888) 835-8531 (TTY: 711) Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

You can also attend a FREE Medicare workshop.

Learn more about your options, ask questions and get the latest Medicare information firsthand at one of HAP’s FREE Medicare workshops. Find one near you at hap.org/attend.

HAP Senior Plus (HMO), HAP Senior Plus (HMO-POS) and HAP Senior Plus (PPO) are plans with Medicare contracts. Enrollment in the plans depends on contract renewals. HAP Senior Plus (PPO) and Alliance Medicare Supplement are products of Alliance Health and Life Insurance Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of HAP. A licensed HAP Medicare sales person will be present with information and applications. For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings call <phone> (TTY: 711). Workshops discuss plans for Medicare-eligible individuals who purchase their own health care coverage.

ATTENTION: If English is not your primary language, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call (800) 801-1770 or TTY: 711.

ATENCIÓN: si habla español, los servicios de asistencia de idiomas se encuentran disponibles gratuitamente para usted. Llame al (800) 801-1770, los usuarios TTY deben llamar al 711. ‫( أو خدمة‬800) 801-1770 ‫ اتصل بالرقم‬.‫ فإننا نوفر لك خدمات المساعدة اللغوية مجانًا‬،‫ إذا كنت تتحدث اللغة العربية‬:‫تنبيه‬ .711 :‫الهاتف النصي‬ Y0076_ALL 2018007 Mich Chron Ad Accepted 6/6/2017

UAW-FORD’s

Section C-3

June 14-20, 2017

Detroit youth poets are ready for the world!

The powerful voices of our youth: The InsideOut Literary Project has sparked a local literary movement that has brought the talent of young artists to the world’s stage, while giving youth of virtually all ages a platform to share their thoughts and shape our city’s future.

Slam Team prepares to bring the best of “The D” at international festival

By Scott Talley Special to the Michigan Chronicle Most people would say that Ashley Rae Carson is living the life. A 2016 graduate of Cass Tech, Carson is now a student at the University of Hawaii where she is studying English.

Carson no doubt loves the beautiful scenery of Oahu and many other joys of her college experience. However, at the moment Carson is back in Detroit and would not have it any other way, as she and four team members prepare to represent our city in roughly a month at the 20th Annual Brave New Voices International Youth Poetry Slam Festival in San Francisco.

“It’s an honor to be on the team,” said Carson, who will be representing Detroit at Brave New Voices for the second consecutive year.

“It’s just a really good feeling to be a part of that family again.”

In San Francisco, Carson and the Detroit team will come together with young poets from around the world during four days of workshops, slams, showcases, community service, and civic participation from July 19 through July 22. The festival combines dynamic artistic presentation with civic participation, as the participants tell their stories and speak their hopes and dreams.

And while poetry provides a rich opportunity for individual expression, the 2017 Detroit Youth Poetry Slam Team is united by the pride each member takes in representing “The D.” “They’re not just writing for the sake of writing poems, the driving force is they want to represent the city,” said Justin Rogers, a community youth liaison for InsideOut Literary Arts Project (iO), and one of the coaches preparing the Detroit Slam Team for San Francisco. “Representing Detroit is not the same as representing New York, or

Chicago, or Austin, Texas. We always get a bad reputation in Detroit, so representing Detroit means shattering those images and stereotypes.”

Rogers spoke to the “Best of Young Detroit” recently after one of the team’s practice sessions. It is apparent that his work is a labor of love, and Rogers speaks of a process that the team is undergoing, which transcends poetry and art.

“Each Slam Team member realizes that they are a part of something larger and they want to work collectively to make this the best experience possible,” said Rogers, who was a member of iO’s award-winning 2011 Detroit / Brave New Voices Slam Team. “It starts with building community. They’re building a small community to interact with a larger community and then when they go to Brave New Voices they will become a part of that larger community.”

For this year’s edition of the Detroit Slam Team, the sense of community becomes even greater the closer the calendar gets to July 19.

“They have treated me like a family member,” said Wayne State sophomore Deon Hogan, describing not just his bond with his fellow Detroit Slam Team members, but also explaining how iO has nurtured him since the eighth grade, when he first became a part of the program.

Hogan added: “I couldn’t imagine where I would be without iO. When I first started, I was in slams getting fours and threes out

of 10. But my peers and professional poets (with the program) helped me and motivated me, and then I started to beat people that used to destroy me. And to make the team, I had to beat people who were teaching me how to do poetry.

InsideOut molded me into a poet that I didn’t think was possible, and now I’m about to sling with my best friends. This is the best moment of my life.”

In addition to Carson, Hogan also will be sharing his special moment with the other talented members of the 2017 Detroit Youth Slam Team, which includes LaShawn SmithWright, Wes Matthews and YaKuZa Moon (winner of the 2017 Detroit Youth Poetry Grand Slam). All of the gifted artists are also members of Citywide Poets, an awardwinning afterschool program created by iO. While the slam season creates a great buzz across our city, iO, and the local youth literary movement it has fueled, is about much more than just competition.

“We are helping young people find and be excited about pieces of themselves, and this takes place in competitive and noncompetitive spaces,” said Devin Samuels, iO’s Youth Speaks Future Corp fellow.

An artist activist from Providence, Rhode Island, Samuels told the “Best of Young Detroit” that he has been blown away by the intelligence and talent of our city’s youth and he believes the rapidly growing youth literary movement has a vital role to play in Detroit’s future.

“We are tooling the next generation to write their own narrative,” said Samuels of iO, which has in-school and after-school programming.

“We are helping young people to articulate their own future for themselves and for the city, and we’re letting the people speak for themselves…No future has ever happened that was not imagined first and iO helps young people utilize that strength.”

To learn more about the InsideOut Literary Arts Project, please visit insideoutdetroit.org.

On the iO site there also is a link to a fundraiser, which supports the 2017 Detroit Youth Poetry Slam Team going to San Francisco in July. iO informed the “Best of Young Detroit” that anyone making a donation of $30 could receive a Slam Team Chapbook (book of poetry) in the mail.

For more information about that opportunity, please email the “Best of Young Detroit” directly at stalleyassociates@ gmail.com.

UAW-Ford’s Best of Young Detroit

June 14-20, 2017

Page C-4

Mother Nature rewards Legends League teams and fans Proudly supported by UAW-Ford, Legends League Baseball provides affordable baseball to Detroit youth, while focusing on baseball skill and character development. “The Best of Young Detroit” invites our community to take advantage of the great weather and experience Legends League action first-hand before the spring season concludes. Following is a listing of upcoming games: 12 And Under Spring Competitive Division Wednesday, June 14 Indians Baseball Club vs. Detroit Yankees at William Clay Ford Field (6:30 p.m.)

Indians Baseball Club vs. Detroit Stars at William Clay Ford Field (8:45 p.m.)

Thursday, June 15 Ecorse Knights vs. Detroit Yankees at William Clay Ford Field (6:30 p.m.)

Detroit Yankees vs. YMCA Tigers at William Clay Ford Field (8:45 p.m.)

Saturday, June 17 Indians Baseball Club vs. YMCA Tigers at William Clay Ford Field (noon) Indians Baseball Club vs. Blue Jays at William Clay Ford Field (2:15 p.m.)

For the love of the game: Even before the temperatures warmed up, Legends League baseball teams gave their fans a great show. With the spring season winding down, good games and nicer weather await fans at fields across our community.

After a longer-than-usual wait, recent temperatures signal that baseball season is truly here in Detroit. However, the hundreds of youth that have

been participating in Legends League Baseball have been having fun, while learning life lessons for several weeks during an exciting spring season.

Sunday, June 18 Motor City Royals vs. Southfield Cardinals at William Clay Ford Field (11:15 a.m.)

Monday, June 19 Blue Jays vs. Ecorse Knights at William Clay Ford Field (6:30 p.m.)

Ecorse Knights vs. Southfield Tigers at William Clay Ford Field (8:45 p.m.)

Tuesday, June 20 Detroit Playmakers vs. Indians Baseball Club at William Clay Ford Field (6:30 p.m.)

10 and under Competitive Division Thursday, June 15 Detroit Stars vs. Indians Baseball Club at Tindal (6:30 p.m.)

Midwest Cubs vs. Downriver Demons at Palmer Park (7 p.m.)

10 and under New Teams Division Thursday, June 15 Southfield Orioles vs. Harms Elementary at Tindal (6:30 p.m.)

Legends League games are free, but light refreshments can be purchased at weekend games. For more information about Legends League Baseball, including exact baseball diamond locations, please contact director Garrett Street at 313-363-7271.

Remembering Bobby ‘Showboat’ Hall: Brewster-honed skills thrilled the world As this edition of the “Best of Young Detroit” was going to press, the NBA Finals were winding down. Today’s basketball fans may take for granted the showmanship of current stars like LeBron James, Kyrie Irving and Steph Curry. However, one of the earlier players to bring high skill level and flare to the world’s stage hailed from Detroit and he became known in the basketball universe as Bobby “Showboat” Hall (September 30, 1927 – December 24, 2014).

Much of Hall’s basketball education would take place at the fabled Brewster Recreation Center, and with that pedigree he was literally ready to take on the world.

Hall joined the Harlem Globetrotters in 1949 during an era when basketball on the professional and college levels were largely segregated. Hall would eventually succeed the legendary Reece “Goose” Tatum as the Globetrotters top showman, demonstrating that basketball

skill and style could go hand-in-hand, many decades before the NBA welcomed that approach to the game.

Not only did Hall combine style and substance, he also was durable, appearing in more than 5,000 games that were enjoyed by fans in nearly 90 countries. And his 26 seasons with the Globetrotters was five longer than the NBA record of 21 seasons by Robert Parrish.

Hall, who played with a host of great players during his career including Tatum, Wilt Chamberlain, Connie Hawkins and Marques Haynes, became a player-coach for the Globetrotters in 1968. And in 1998 he was presented with the Globetrotters’ “Legends Ring” during a ceremony at the Palace of Auburn Hills. For his dedication to his craft, and for the joy he brought to people and families across the world, Bobby “Showboat” Hall should always be remembered in the city of Detroit and serves as a model for today’s youth.

Student Voices

Davis Aerospace students offer constructive critique of Project Green Light Detroit Project Green Light Detroit is billed as the first public-private-community partnership of its kind. The effort combines real-time crime fighting and community policing, while promoting neighborhood safety and revitalization across our city.

Our student contributors at Davis Aerospace Technical High School have paid close attention to this initiative and have offered a constructive critique.

Aaron Foster, junior: “Last year, Detroit Police introduced a new program, Project Green Light Detroit.

It was designed to cut down on crime by adding cameras in our local businesses. Special police officers were supposed to be monitoring these businesses closely, to make sure the businesses were not robbed. Yet, a business owner that uses the program said: “It is not helping anyone at all.” This business owner was Mohammad Rustam, the owner of a Valero gas station, who was robbed twice during December 2016, while having the cameras in his store. Each storeowner pays about $160 monthly for digital storage and $1,000 for installation. For a store owner to pay for this equipment and not get the protection he paid for is unacceptable.

“Recently, the Detroit Police proposed making Project Green Light Detroit mandatory for stores that stay open after 10 p.m. If they are going to have their Project Green Light mandatory for storeowners to have, the police need to beef up the security. For example, police should be patrolling certain areas with a higher crime rate because just having a police car parked outside these businesses will deter robbers. Project Green Light Detroit is not a failure, but the Detroit Police needs to try harder to keep these businesses safe.

“Project Green Light Detroit is a good first step in lowering the crime rate in Detroit. With a little bit more effort put in by the Detroit Police, Detroit’s crime rate will go down.”

Christopher Freeman, junior: “Project Green Light Detroit is more like Project Red Light because it may stop some, but it doesn’t stop all.

Project Green Light Detroit simply enables the Police Department to make money off of struggling business owners. Even though this project was supposed to lower the incredibly high crime rate, this project simply deters some criminals. In addition, the project would seem to push criminals to go to different stores that are not participating in the program. As a result, crime is not lowered it is just transferred to different places. Many gas station owners are devastated after spending $1,000 for their installation fee and paying $160 monthly without getting the results that they had anticipated. One business owner, Mohammed Rustam, reported that his gas station was robbed twice despite being a part of Project Green Light Detroit.

“This project is simply not a good idea in a time where we have such an insufficient amount of police officers, though

I believe this idea will be good when we are able to sustain economic growth. However, at a time in which we average an incredibly high burglary rate and a low amount of police, this is just not feasible. While the Police Department should be preventing murders and stopping drugs from being distributed throughout the city, we just don’t have the manpower needed to police the Green Light project and violent crimes in our community.”

Ananda Thomas, junior: “Project Green Light Detroit is a surveillance program that is used to crack down on crime at gas stations and other businesses. Project Green Light Detroit is an amazing idea and an effective way to stop crimes from happening. Detroit has a very high crime rates at gas stations, especially late at night. It makes people feel safe when they are out late at night, knowing that someone is watching them in case anything goes wrong.

“Project Green Light Detroit first started at 24-hour gas stations, and now has expanded to restaurants, liquor stores, grocery markets, and more. Comcast decided to partner with Project Green Light Detroit, to expand the program while making it more affordable for the city businesses that need it. Thus far, more than 150 businesses have joined Project Green Light Detroit and some participating businesses have reported excellent service and less crime.

“Detroit really needs Project Green Light. It’s good for all the communities and I’m glad the city came up with it. I used to be scared going into a gas station by myself, especially in crime-riddled neighborhoods. I was afraid of what might happen because there were always people lingering for no reason at all. Now with Project Green Light Detroit I don’t feel that way anymore.”

Johnnie Davis, junior: “The Detroit Police Department partnered with some Detroit businesses in an effort called Project Green Light Detroit.

Through Project Green Light Detroit, a camera is directly linked to a police station where an officer or dispatcher is constantly watching the footage for criminal activity. If a crime occurs, an officer is dispatched to the location.

The purpose of Project Green Light Detroit is to hopefully lower the crime rate in the city.

“Surprisingly, Project Green Light Detroit has actually done what it is supposed to do, as participating businesses have reported a decline in crime. In terms of results, I can definitely say Project Green Light Detroit is an efficient way to reduce crime. One recommendation to prevent even more crime would be to install cameras on some of the streetlights in areas notorious for criminal activity, and in largely congested shopping areas. Although this may be more costly to implement, I’m sure that the effect on the crime rate would show a drastic decline.”

Up for an important task: Carrimia Owens (left) and Alana Burke are well on their way as journalists and truth tellers.

Throughout American history, African American journalists have served an important role, which has often included giving a voice to the voiceless. That is why the “Best of Young Detroit” was extremely excited to learn about Carrimia Owens and Alana Burke, two outstanding students and products of King High School, that are sure to be a part of the next great wave of African American journalists.

A recent King graduate, Owens has received a scholarship to attend Wayne State University’s Journalism Institute for Media Diversity this fall. And Burke, who will be a high school senior this fall, has been accepted to the Princeton University Summer Journalism Program.

This past school year, Owens and Burke were the editors for their school’s newspaper, Crusaders’ Chronicle.

In congratulating both young ladies, the “Best of Young Detroit” also would like to commend their families, teachers and other supporters that have prepared these students well for the important work that awaits them.

Your Feedback Matters The “Best of Young Detroit” welcomes feedback from our community. Please submit story suggestions and other comments to Scott Talley at stalleyassociates@gmail.com or 313-590-3686.

business

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

June 14-20, 2017 Page C-5

Detroit businesses From page C-1

Added Moody, “The backbone has to be educating folks so they can get the jobs because what’s really clear is with all the baby boomers who are leaving the workforce over the next 10 years, DTE Energy is not escaping that. We’re going through that same thing.

Transformation. And here we have a city where we’re headquartered where we want to make a difference that has 50 percent unemployment. The people that we really want to make a difference with, with those multiple barriers to employment, they’re not going to get there without some special treatment and consideration.”

Nelson brought the challenge into even tighter focus.

“But when we think about it, so how do we truly bring this community back, you know? Because people don’t have jobs. Is this a true renaissance if a significant percentage of our community isn’t employed? Many of them are structurally unemployed when you’ve got returning citizens that are coming back. You have people who have huge literacy problems, to the point where I can dress you up and I can wrap you up in wraparound services, and I can get you to the church on time, but I don’t even know you can’t read.”

Matt Elliott from Bank of America echoed some of the concerns expressed by Nelson and Moody, and said that B of A is focusing on what he called economic mobility as a means of addressing the problem.

Designing a more promising Detroit

By Keith A. Owens Senior Editor

Understandably, there is a major focus on education and economic/neighborhood development as being the primary areas of focus for Detroit’s revitalization, but the designing a more promising future for Detroit also requires input from the design community.

Makes sense, right?

Among the many positive indicators of the belief many have in Detroit’s resurgence is an honor that hasn’t received quite the attention of other notable investments, even though it probably should.

In December 2015, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) designated Detroit as a City of Design in December 2015. Oh, and Detroit is also the first and only city in the United States to be designated a UNESCO City of Design.

Iowa City is the City of Literature, Austin is the City of Media Arts, but Detroit is the only design city.

There are 22 design cities worldwide, and 116 cities of creativity.

All of this happened right when Olga Stella, DC3’s executive direc-

tor, arrived to assume her new position.

shaping a more sustainable and equitable Detroit.

“That’s the one thing that connects all these cities of creativity together; we’ve all committed to equity and sustainability as a core goal,” she said. “What this means is that we have access to a global network of experts for learning and exchange. So we’re part of this international network.”

This was a major investment in the creative economic development potential of Detroit that could provide some great aesthetic benefits to the city’s neighborhoods, not just the downtown corridor.

As part of this designation, Detroit Creative Corridor Center (DC3), which does the Detroit Design Festival every September, launched a planning process to build a 10-year vision for Detroit City of Design, strategies to achieve it, and benchmarks to measure progress, according to material provided by DC3.

Most recently, DC3 has partnered with four organizations — in the launch of a groundbreaking Visioning Process — to assist with developing an economic development strategy, communications strategy, and an interactive process to develop a declaration of design principles for Detroit. The objective of this process is to develop a vision, set of principles and an economic development strategy for how design can play a role in

“People need to value design, not to think of it as a luxury or as something that is not for them. Or just for those people downtown,” said Stella.

“I think the biggest impact of this can be in our neighborhoods and in our culture. I think that there’s a model that Detroit will be able to put out that will be unique amongst all the other places, because it won’t just be about beautiful objects and high design, but about the process, who gets to make it, and the impact that it has.

“We have a real opportunity, I think, to broaden people’s access and to broaden the benefits so it’s not a handful of elite designers who are benefiting. A lot of what we’ve done over the years is promote creative and design as being important to Detroit. Putting on events, B:10” but all in the service of small businesses.”

T:10” S:10”

“The thing we’ve done that we’ve had the most success with that I’m proud about is our zero percent home rehabilitation fund. We’ve partnered with LISK to create a fund that has $8 million in it,” said Elliott.

The fund is specifically for city of Detroit residents who are owner occupants of their homes. Qualified homeowners can borrow up to $25,000 from the fund to rehab their homes, and then pay the money back over 10 years.

Elliott, said the fund has been operational for about 18 months and “We’ve managed to deliver that to every district in the city. The early returns are quite promising.”

As with DTE and others I spoke with, Elliott said education is a key target for investment.

“Workforce development for us is very important,” he said. “We’re focused on that bridge from high school into jobs, and so financial education is a big part of it, summer jobs programs are a big part of it, getting our commercial and corporate and small business banking clients connected to that work is one of the most effective ways we can do it as well. And then supporting programming like Focus: HOPE which helps get people into the workforce.

“What business owners report to us is that, especially for entry level talent, they can’t find people with, number one, the ability to pass the drug test. Over half of applicants fail. Number two, the willingness to come to work and demonstrate a work ethic that brings you to work every day. And that’s even before you talk about academic skills. What your ability to do algebra? Can you read and write well? Those sorts of things. Getting past those first two hurdles eliminates a big chunk of potential employees.”

Correcting this problem isn’t an option, it’s a necessity.

“You can only be as successful as the community you serve,” he said.

WE MAKE THE WORLD SMALLER SO YOUR BUSINESS CAN GROW. Worked with more than 300 global purchasers

Facilitated nearly $5 billion in contracts

make Michigan the Great Make State. See how we can help your business grow by streamlining the process of connecting you with potential partners.

Learn more at MichiganBusiness.org/PMBC

T:10.5”

Pure Michigan Business Connect is opening more doors to local businesses that

B:10.5”

S:10.5”

Set up 8,500 unique supplier-purchaser meetings

Page C-6

• THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • June 14-20, 2017

Friday, June 30, 2017 • MotorCity Casino Hotel 5pm Hors d’oeuvre Reception 6pm Induction Ceremony Dr. William F. Pickard, Ph.D.

YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

Keynote Speaker Successful Businessman and Author of “Millionare Moves”

Sponsored by

Dope dads in the

June 14-20, 2017 |

Reflections

By Steve Holsey

Still missing Prince It has been over a year, but it still seems almost unbelievable and very “wrong” that Prince is not here. Most of us expected this amazingly talented artist to be going strong as a performer — and looking young — well into his sixties and even seventies, and perhaps beyond.

The man from Minneapolis brought something refreshingly new to the industry, and the world, particularly from 1979 to about 1987 when he was at his creative peak, with albums like “1999,” “Dirty Mind,” “Purple Rain,” Prince (1982) “Controversy,” “Sign ‘O’ the Times” and “Around the World in a Day.” In addition to being a fascinating mystery, Prince was also a man who took great pleasure in stretching limits and pushing buttons. Only Prince would dare to write and sing, “Let pretend we’re married and go all night. There ain’t nothin’ wrong if it feels all right.”

Prince was a once-in-a-lifetime artist, and thanks to recorded music, videos, pictures and our memories, in a way he will always be here. As a song written by the prolific Leon Ware put it, “the spirit never dies.”

Still, we’d rather have the real thing.

SEPT. 8-9 will be a special time for Mos Def, who now calls himself Yasiin Bey. That’s when the ONE Musicfest takes place in Atlanta. The rapper-actor says this will be his final performance, his next album will be his last, and he Yasiin Bey/Mos Def is also retiring from the film industry. Thus far, he has not made clear what he will be doing instead. Many people expect it will be social activism.

Rofeal Miller, 32 “Being a dope gad means that you are not just a father but a best friend. You must be someone that they can always communicate effectively with because they know you have their best interest at heart. Never too hard and never too soft.

“If I wasn’t a father I wouldn’t be the man I am today. My children are my fire, motivation and strength. They give me a greater purpose in life. “ Jay B. Marks, Ph.D “I would characterize a dope dad as a father who displays unconditional love and acceptance for his children; one who possesses wisdom, knowledge, intelligence and the ability to listen patiently; a problem solver, mentor, role model, comforter, supporter and guide.”

“Fatherhood has made me a better man and person. Knowing that you have the responsibility for raising another human being is humbling.

“As a result of being a father, I am more patient, thoughtful, loving, understanding and a better listener. I am the proud father of two beautiful daughters. My daughters are the loves of my life, and I am honored that of all the people in the world that God could have chosen to be their father, he chose me.”

Tamone Martin, 39 “A dope dad to me is being all you can be. Being that superhero in your kids’ life. Too often, men look for credit for being a father to their child. I’m believer that you shouldn’t be patted on the back for doing what you’re supposed to do. Growing up without my biological father in the household, I credit a lot to my stepfather, Jerome Wiggins, for being that example of what a dad is supposed to be. A dope dad goes above and beyond the basics and he ensures that his children have the proper upbringing, respect and the fight to want to be even doper.

“Fatherhood changed my life tremendously. I was 22 when my son was born and at the moment, I instantly knew I had to change my ways and my maturity. I looked at my life and knew I wanted to be the best dad I could be and I must admit, it took time.

D1

D

By AJ Williams

F

ather’s Day is always a reminder for me that my dad is no longer here and how much I miss his presence in my life. I often wish he was here for me to laugh with and, more importantly, had the chance to let him know how much he still means to me.

This contemplation led me to realize, sadly, how much we don’t publicly appreciate our fathers. On Mother’s Day, the world almost comes to a halt and while mothers are very deserving of all the shine they receive, so are our fathers, especially our black men who are fathers.

Black men often make the front page of the news for so many negative things, and I am using this opportunity and space to change that narrative and celebrate some excellent fathers in Detroit.

These men are entrepreneurs, mentors, artists and educators, but most importantly they are down to earth, dope dads. I also wanted to hear their thoughts on what it means to be a dad and how fatherhood changed their lives.

Clement “Fame” Brown, 37: “Being a dope dad means encouraging and allowing my children to be their true, authentic selves. It means affording them every opportunity possible to grow into the person they dream to become.

“Fatherhood has changed my life completely. It has taught me to be more patient and compassionate.

Most importantly, raising my children has shown me how extremely valuable black fathers are to our communities.”

“There were bumps and bruises along the way that I endured, but it was the constant reminder of my son that I could not let him down and that what I become will play a big role in my ability to provide and to be an example to him.”

Born Dante Smith, Bey/Def proved himself to be a far better than average actor in movies such as “Monster’s Ball” and “Lackawanna Blues.”

FROM TIME to time, totally unexpected music collaborations take place, like Run-D.M.C. and Aerosmith, Millie Jackson and Elton John, and Kanye West and Katy Perry.

Johnny Mathis

Babyface

Well, master songwriter, producer and singer Babyface (Kenneth Edmonds) is currently in the studio producing none other than the iconic Johnny Mathis. The legendary crooner is now, believe it or not, 81 years old, but still “sounds great,” Babyface pointed out. Mathis will be doing covers of popular songs, both new and fairly recent.

Johnny Mathis’ most famous songs include “Chances Are,” “Misty” and many years later, “Too Much, Too Little, Too Late” with Deniece Williams.

See Reflections Page D-2

Ken Kareem, 44 Terrence Lowe, 42 “To me, being a dope dad is being a leader for your family. I put a lot of emphasis on being a leader to my kids. Also, being honest, supportive and positive with my kids. I always tell my children to follow your dreams and don’t ever let anyone get in the way of achieving your dreams.

“The biggest change has been thinking about others’ needs before you think of your own. Simply knowing you are responsible for the well-being and the livelihood of another human being puts a pressure on you that simply cannot be explained.

Pressure can either burst pipes or it can make diamonds. I plan on making diamonds.”

“Being a dope dad means that you have to toe the line between father, friend and hero. Being a father literally saved my life. Before I had children, I was chasing the wrong things in life. But when I became a father I had someone looking up to me but also counting on me, so I had to change and focus on them.”

Page D-2 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • June 14-20, 2017

37

PICKS 582 862 460 521 120 WEEK’S BEST LOTTERY

610 936 223 607 835 354 034 2163 5249 294 11 32 33 47 53 18 YOUR AD

LOOKS

Shimmer on the River returns with the Temptations Review The Detroit RiverFront Conservancy announces the return of Shimmer on the River, the Conservancy’s largest annual fundraiser, on Thursday, June 22, from 6 to10 p.m. During the gala event, the Detroit Riverfront will transform into a family fun fair and carnival featuring a concert by the Temptations Review.

Place your classified or display ad in the

Presented by Strategic Staffing Solutions, hundreds of guests, including business and community leaders, families and young professionals, will be treated to an unforgettable evening of music, performance art, gourmet bites, traditional festival food and free carnival games and rides with GM River Days serving as a backdrop.

“Shimmer on the River is a celebration of the Detroit Riverfront,” said Mark Wallace, president and CEO of the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy. “The proceeds from the event help to ensure that the Detroit Riverfront remains a clean, safe and beautiful gathering place for everyone.”

This year’s event will be hosted by co-chairs Matt Simoncini, president, chief executive officer and director, Lear Corporation and Jason Tinsley, executive director, J.P. Morgan Private Bank along with the Shimmer Host Committee.

“I am proud to support a wonderful organization that is making our riverfront more accessible for our community,” said Matt Simoncini, president, chief executive officer and director, Lear Corporation. “This event celebrates not only how far the Detroit Riverfront has evolved over the last 10 years, but also what’s to come.”

“I’m excited to be a part of Shimmer benefiting the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy,” said Tinsley. “It’s great to see millions of Detroiters and visitors come together to enjoy the riverfront each year.”

A VIP cocktail reception will take place earlier in the evening with a champagne toast. During this year’s celebration, the Conservancy will honor Thomas McNulty with the 2017 Shimmer Award for his many contributions to the riverfront revitalization efforts. During the

early years of the Conservancy, McNulty was instrumental in providing financial structuring and business planning counsel for the organization. Prior to his work with the Conservancy, McNulty worked for 18 years at Henry Ford Health System where he retired as senior vice president and chief financial officer. McNulty has served on the boards of numerous non-profit and for-profit organizations throughout his career, including Leader Dog School for the Blind, Walsh College, Henry Ford Retirement Village and Sparky Anderson’s CATCH Foundation. He was also instrumental in the financial development of Wayne State University’s TechTown and the M1 Rail project.

Tickets are now available for this magical evening and include VIP at $250, which allows admission to the cocktail reception at 5 p.m.; General Admission at $150 each, which allows admission at 6 p.m. Each ticket includes admission for up to two children age 12 and under. All guests will receive access to the private concert, food and family fun.

Tickets for Shimmer on the River may be purchased by calling 313.566.8248 or online at DetroitRiverfront. org/ShimmerontheRiver.

Sunday, June 18 | 6:00 pm | The Baltimore Gallery BLACK INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION AT AMC: amfm, Party Noire and Black Eutopia return to Detroit for the Second Annual Black Independence Celebration for the 19th Annual Allied Media Conference. Explore community, history and black joy through an evening of food, art, music, film, art, discourse and dance featuring Detroit and Chicago artists and businesses. INFO: eventbrite.com Sunday, June 18 | 10 am | Ile Ibeji Farm Sunday Brunch: African Buffet at Ile Ibeji Farm, Detroit $10pp SUNDAY BRUNCH: African Buffet at Ile Ibeji Farm. Old African recipes, slow food, communal eating, and lots of love, and culture, and music. INFO:eventbrite.com Sunday, June 18 | 4 pm | The Majestic SUNSET SUNDAYS: Majestic’s Rooftop Sunday Day Party. Come kick back at the only Rooftop Bar in Midtown!!

Sunday, June 18 | 8 pm | The Loving Touch TO KNOW ME RELEASE PARTY: Pierre Anthony’s offical album release party for “To Know Me” is Sunday, June 18 at The Loving Touch from 8pm-midnight. INFO: evrymusic.com Monday, June 19 | 7:00 pm | Eastern Market NORISH: Welcome to nourish, a pop-up dinner series by Eastern Market. Each dinner features a themed menu prepared by some of Detroit’s best chefs, hosted in the easygoing atmosphere of Shed 5 at Eastern Market. Info: Eventbrite.com

Reflections AT THE TIME of the ending of his two-year marriage to Tameka Foster, Usher made one of the alltime strangest and contradictory statements. He said, “I was faithful at heart, but not faithful all the way.”

GOOD IN PRINT

From page D-1 Los Angeles, along with Chance the Rapper.

Nia Long was powerful as Giuliana Green on several recent episodes of “Empire,” her nemesis being Cookie Lyon (Taraji P. Henson). Many viewers hope Also on the funny side, on a TV special, Usher sang her character will return. And speaking of Long, she has family in Detroit and as a child often spent time McFadden & Whitehead’s “Ain’t No Stopping Us Now.” here during summer.

He did a great job, but one lines goes, “We’re gonna polish up our act.” Usher, however, sang, “We’re gonBETCHA DIDN’T KNOW…that the Jackson 5 na polish up our back.” (As if that makes any sense.) made two singles before signing with Motown.

And to make it worse, he “polMEMORIES: “If This World ished” his back with an imaginary Were Mine” (Marvin Gaye and towel.

Tammi Terrell), “Stay in My Cor THERE IS an unfortunate sitner” (the Dells), “Get Off” (Foxy), uation going on right now regard“I Feel For You” (Chaka Khan), ing the group Shalamar, famous “Save the Best For Last” (Vanessa for hits like “The Second Time Williams), “The Great Pretender” Around” and “A Night to Remem(the Platters), “Love Hangover” ber.”

(Diana Ross).

BLESSINGS to Vera Howell One the one hand, original (thanks for the card and beautiful member Jody Watley has a group message!), Tyrone Mills, Eddie called “Jody Watley and Shalamar Allen, Deborah Smith Pollard, Reloaded.” On the other, Howard Jody Watley and Shalamar Reloaded Patreice Massey, Robert Brown Hewett, not an original member and Carol Smith Dixon. but the one who sang lead on all the biggest hits, has “Shalamar featuring Howard Hewett…” He had been WORDS OF THE WEEK, from Peter McWilliams: working as a solo act.

“Don’t worship the god of other people’s opinions.”

Let the music play!

New Edition — Michael Bivins, Ralph Tresvant, Ronnie DeVoe, Ricky Bell, Bobby Brown, Johnny Gill Steve Holsey can be reached at svh517@aol.com — will be honored at the BET Awards on June 25 in and PO Box 02843, Detroit, MI 48202.

Call (313) 963-5522

DAD! June 14-20, 2017 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • Page D-3

Detroit Digs For

By AJ Williams

DSE Detroit: FO(U)R HIM: Protect Him. Love Him. Please Him. Respect Him. Hand printed on 100% ringspun cotton shirts. Side seam fit. Each piece is printed in Detroit, $25 Detroit Pistons Season Tickets: The Pistons are returning to the D! The 2017 Season will open at the Pistons’ new home, Little Caesars Arena. Be your dad’s favorite plus one with season seats starting at $616.

The Rose Gold Runwell Turntable, designed inside and out for the discriminating audiophile and easy to use by any music enthusiast. Featuring a built-in phono preamplifier and a belt-driven pulley with speeds of 33 1/3 rpm and 45 rpm. $2500

The Detroit Shoppe: Curate a custom gift for the dad whose heart beats with Detroit pride.

Prices vary.

American Coney Island Coney Dog Kit: You can take the dad out of the D, but you can’t take Detroit out of the dad. Give Dad a taste of home with this iconic hot dog. $40

Chene Park Wednesday Night Jazz Series: ­Najee, Meshell ­Ndegeocello and more will put a smile on any jazz dad face. Tickets start at $15

Classified PERSONAL SERVICES

Seeking

BORN GIFTED READER

No Mail Answered 2742 Monroe St., Toledo, Ohio 1-419-248-2145 1-419-973-9058

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THE BOGGS SCHOOL’S

ANNUAL BUDGET HEARING

PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

MRS. LINN

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

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

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

ACCOUNTING CLERK III AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY

Senior Application Engineer

Development Information Services

Perform clerical accounting duties in a large and/or complex administrative unit. Minimum Qualifications: High school graduation or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Three years clerical accounting/ bookkeeping experience. Type minimum 30 wpm. Ability to effectively interact with the public, students, faculty, and staff. Salary is $39,693.00 annually.

See online posting for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by June 27, 2017.

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

is Wed. 6/14/17 -- 6:30 p.m.

4141 Mitchell St. Detroit, MI

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Student Affairs

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

BUDGET HEARING NOTICE Pathways Academy Charter School will be holding its annual budget hearing on Monday, June 26, 2017 at 11:45 AM to review and comment on the Academy’s 2017/2018 school budget. The location will be 11340 East Jefferson Avenue, Detroit, MI 48214.

Assist the Vice President and Assistant Vice President in the administration of the responsibilities of the Student Affairs. Coordinate division general fund and auxiliary budgets and staff assignments. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.

Five years of administrative/management experience. Three years budgeting and accounting experience. Extensive experience with spreadsheets, databases and PowerPoint.

This is a full time position with salary commensurate with education and experience.

Refer to online posting for additional qualifications and requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by June 20, 2017.

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

The budget is available for public inspection at 11340 East Jefferson Avenue, Detroit, MI 48214. The meeting will be conducted in accordance with the Open Meetings Act.

PUBLIC HEARING The Board of Directors of the W-A-Y Academy, a public school academy, will conduct a public hearing for the proposed budget for the 2017-2018 school year on Monday, June 19, 2017, at 4:30 P.M. The meeting will be held at 8701 West Vernor Highway, Detroit, MI 48209.

This meeting is open to the public.

Copies of the proposed budget will be available at the Academy for the public to review during regular business hours beginning June 12, 2017.

DETROIT DELTA PREPARATORY ACADEMY PUBLIC NOTICE of BUDGET HEARING In Compliance with the OPEN MEETINGS ACT (MCLA 15.261 et seq Public Act No. 267 of 1976)

Seeking

CUSTODIAN I/ FACILITIES AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Campus Cleaning Department

Reports to the Director, Clinical Skills Training & Simulation and will provide administrative support for the Clinical Skills Center. Initial point of contact for the CSC. Responsible for scheduling, purchasing, payroll, logistics, and record maintenance. Provide general oversight to the Standardized Patients. This position is located at the Troy campus of Beaumont Hospital. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Minimum three years administrative experience, preferably in an educational setting. This is a part-time position working 30 hours per week. Salary commensurate with education and exprience.

Refer to online posting for additional requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by June 13, 2017.

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

the ANNUAL BUDGET HEARING of the BOARD of DIRECTORS of Detroit Delta Preparatory Academy, a Charter School formed pursuant to the Revised School Code of 1976, will be held on Wednesday, June 28, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. The budget will be available for public inspection at the offices of EQUITY Education, 13600 Virgil Street, Detroit, MI 48223.

The public meeting will be held at the Academy: 3550 John C. Lodge Fwy. Detroit, MI 48201

DETROIT INNOVATION ACADEMY PUBLIC NOTICE of BUDGET HEARING In Compliance with the OPEN MEETINGS ACT (MCLA 15.261 et seq Public Act No. 267 of 1976) the ANNUAL BUDGET HEARING of the BOARD of DIRECTORS of Detroit Innovation Academy, a Charter School formed pursuant to the Revised School Code of 1976, will be held on Tuesday, June 27, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. The budget will be available for public inspection at the offices of EQUITY Education, 13600 Virgil Street, Detroit, MI 48223.

The public meeting will be held at the Academy: 18211 Plymouth Road, Detroit, MI 48228

SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY

School of Education & Human Services Continuing Education

Marketing: Market programs to the public, teachers, counselors and school district administrators with the goal of increasing enrollment and program retention. Lead program recruitment and promotional support for designated programs. Project Management: Work with faculty in promoting programs and resolving student issues.

Meet with applicants and review program administrative requirements.

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree or an equivalent combination of education and/ or experience. Minimum five years of professional experience of which three years’ experience are in project management.

Experience with the teacher education population and social media marketing. High level of MS Office Skills including data base management (ACCESS).

Refer to online posting for additional position requirements.

Salary commensurate with education and experience. First consideration will be given to those who apply by June 23, 2017.

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

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Below is a small scope of work and trades CDM Constructors Inc. is currently looking for bids to complete construction. We are currently soliciting bids until June 16, 2017.

Please review at your convenience: CDM Constructors Inc. (CCI) is currently under contract with Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) for construction of a new chemical feed building known as the PC797 Rouge River Outfall Disinfection Project located at 9300 W. Jefferson Ave in Detroit, MI 48209. CCI is currently soliciting quotes for the following trades: • Masonry • Asphalt • Roofing • Hollow Core Concrete • Painting/Special Coatings If interested in bidding the project, please contact Ed Lyons at 617-452-6408 or email LyonsEJ@CDMSmith.com

Page C1

Page B1

POWERED BY REAL

TIMES MEDIA

.com

Volume 80 – Number

May 31 - June 6, 2017

michiganchronicle

38

Obamacare repeal threatens Healthy Michigan

Governor struggles to preserve signature health care program

By Keith A. Owens Senior Editor

RepubliNo matter how try to spin cans in Congress majority of it, it seems the know the ts their constituen when their difference between trying to are elected officials when they screw them and to do the r and Gary Torgow trying Jr., David Rainmake are actually Damon Creighton recently reright thing. A Hiram E. Jackson, that most leased poll shows little to no Americans have Amerifaith in the proposed (AHCA) Act can Health Care known legislation, otherwise that Repeal, and as Replace in the House the Republicans So much are putting forward.

Republicans so, in fact, that essentially in the Senate are proposal declaring the House don’t even

By Keith A. Owens dead on arrival and with it.

Senior Editor want to be associated this whole of getting an educaBut even before The whole purpose when school back Nobody goes to thing got started, tion is to succeed. the most spectacular Trump and be Trump was just to learn how to president of be. we had an actual failure they can doing presithe United States having Trust me on this. dential things withoutbrought Bank thank Chemical to worry about being Oh, and you can the “killa and back Gary Torgow for up on charges, during Board Chairman were term s the coined when the Republican desire one S.W.A.G.’ Torgow their what quickly became totally united in his remarks in Obamacare, of the 2017 S.W.A.G. to dismantle of the favorite terms differMichigan had a slightly unlike Awards.

Museum, Wright ent approach which,overseen Charles Last week at the recognized some most other states aclights the Michigan Chronicle

by Republican governors, brightest young the value for of metro Detroit’s tually understood (Students Wired residents die at the 2017 S.W.A.G. Awards. A of not letting its and nt and Greatness) were affordable Achieveme of from lack high school students care.

Chrontotal of 13 local accessible health last year's (courtesy of the awarded checks Creighton Jr. with as somepartner, Chemical award winner Damon Recognized now prize icle and our S.W.A.G. alterAWARDS 2017 $10,000 $1,000 to the top thing of a Republican Bank) ranging from winner, S.W.A.G. Jay'la Logan – Carla Jones photos (waivers of the book “Millionyear’s top prize native to Obamacare how the of EnAlliance and author this top winner, of $10,000. Last for Proven Principles present to offer he said. were required aire Moves: Seven Jay’la Logan, was benefit of her experi- be a productive citizen,” instructed them Medicaid exthe state implanted awardees citizen, maybe trepreneurship,” similarly to as year’s they were rewell Michigan freshman, as “And as a productive you’ll come out that this was not free money pansion), Healthy and ence as a college of helping it be treated as such. to the Chronicle buy a house. Maybe supported the idea get the attend you’ll a journalist, or a talented videogra- ceiving, nor should express her gratitude to her the for enabling return. Those are Michigan residents to and be for the Michigan Chemical Bank he “Learn, earn and needed, but she was determined no pher. Maybe come work we expect of you,”this health care they we’re going to college. Although -style another, and So don’t believe three things that and or Republican way time belief, al Chronicle. one some last with go to college and it’s the “I have a fundament in such as remade it, the assistance give you this check investing in said. critical for some of us who are born us ideas thrown in doubt would have summer to see you. We’re personal re$10,000, plus a for some of ople. We is so quiring more a we’re going of an unexpected zip codes. So critical We’re businesspe the process.

Bank, made quite a certain our community. that the certain sponsibility in a certain gender, internship at Chemical away. We believe who are born of much more Anybody don’t give money Obviously, it’s stronger our busi- ethnicity. And that belief is this: difference. the overis, that Detroit anything. our own Michigan Chronicle stronger complicated than anywhere can accomplish We’ll be able to hire seemed to Hiram E. Jackson, good financial deciemployed, from Media CEO, also nesses will be. all, but the idea and Real Times proposal once you become and take I beg of you to make make $1 million a a the And to was publisher this people. counsel be that and if you of your families as a Resions, because year, you offered sound advice you will take care that could be sold ods, and it will year, and you spend $1 million a would not awardees. of your neighborho all of us.” care publican effort that for investing y t. We are opportunit are what? Broke.” totally reject “This is an investmen completely and we’re create more because through you. So A-4 Dr. William Pickard,e Obamacare simply was in in our community give you this money, See S.W.A.G. page Keynote speaker we Global Automotiv the name “Obama” hoping that once get your chairman and CEO of . it wisely, you will there somewhere that you will use out and two, you’ll come degree, or maybe CARE page A-4

17 features S.W.A.G. Awards 20 some of Detroit’s best

See HEALTH

to DPSCD partnerships are vital School board leader says

success

MICHIGAN CHRONICLE WHAT’S INSIDE

proed school reform needs and implement lity was evchildren with special grams and sustainabilooking for maintenance. was providing building ident. He did. I would are starting an individual ideally who and And so, while we an opportunationally recognized and driven anew and we have challenges. be president of bring a set of data Dr. Iris Taylor is tic nity, we have those Detroit Board around researched based programma the seven-member recently dishave challenges repHe also We District.

So, inherent strategies to the of Education. She that impact teacher vacancies. those key elements. about the cussed the issues in the enthusiasm enthusiasm resents Schools Compressure to the Detroit Public Do you feel any future, and I do have and its keys to clear that the to Detroit’s remunity District for the future, I’m help contribute e? and being able face, we renaissanc success. challenge birth or goal want to do, is amount to fund what we What is the District’s There is an enormous ? or provide statement we enormous. that vision and con- of expectation that that enables Have you completedDr. Ni- facilitate a structure Providing an experience and strive. ns with to be able to District to grow tract negotiatio allows our studentsin the world. was attrac- the as a person responsible for kolai Vitti? What to you?

And compete anywhere navigate life so that we to tive about Dr. Vitti facilitating the board To be equipped and they choose a contracon policy decisions in any vehicle that We have completed been ac- focus do indeed grow the talent continue in the Dr. Iris Taylor that has that we to be in as they agreement produce fourto tual a in our resourcand the board. within the District education trajectorya vocational Galvanizing all of cepted by Dr. Vitti we are looking in that we can provide He officially started on Tuesday, the product that year project or We for. So yes, the city of Detroit an entrepre- es to ensure tic goals of the as superintendent. program, or being our revitalizachal- May 23, equipped them the programma will not complete is neur. That we’ve stage of their District. It’s going to be Dis- were looking for an individual the school district the record in to move to the next Financially, while had a proven track schools tion unless defined the es- lenge. money allot- who performing. nt in lives and we’ve trict is in debt, the process improveme that are fail- also . children is not sence of excellence ted for educating that have programs particularly page A-4 challeng- enough to provide the extensive looking See PARTNERSHIP What are major as ing. I was had not only Education is wraparound services, such for someone who for es the Board of services to resolve? programs to provide faced with working

By Ken Coleman

Cinetopia Film Festival’s

Published Every Wendnesday Top 10 must-see ‘uprising’ films Page B-1

$1.00

IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

offers small business owners

It’s the place to be

Infotainment In-­Vehicle App Ecosystem Validation Engineering Lead

General Motors, Detroit, MI. Dvlp &support application integration testing &validate, using testing tools such as ALM &Jira, internet apps such as App Store, TCPS (Legal App), Weather Channel, &Audio Books, for U.S., Europe, &China global regions. Validate, &supervise 4 Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), each university-­ degreed in engrg occupations, responsible for validation of Application Framework Android using HTML5, JavaScript, Java Enterprise Edition (JEE) &IOS, including Infotainment &Mobile Apps. Author &update test-­cases. Coordinate with vehicle, service framework &application teams to determine their individual testing reqmts. Improve application qlty using the plan-­do-­check-­act cycle. Actively triage defects for permanent resolution. Support application certification efforts encompassing reqmts for user experience, driver distraction, legal, &security. Liaise between back office &Salesforce teams in defect review meetings to analyze &find root cause, identifying internal &external system &infrastructure dependencies &configuration settings. Master, Software Engrg or Computer Science. 12 months’ experience as Consultant or Engineer, dvlpg application integration testing, validating, using ALM &Jira, internet apps such as App Store &TCPS, for global regions, &validating Application Framework using Android &IOS, or related. Mail resume to Ref#58137, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-­C32-­ D44, Detroit, MI 48265.

Global Climate Control Strategist

General Motors, Detroit, MI. Supervise &provide engrg direction to 3 Vehicle Performance Engrs, HVAC &Climate Control Systems for implementation of research. Research HVAC systems &Climate Control Systems in conventional, hybrid, electric, fuel-­cell, &autonomous vehicles for the thermal comfort of occupants, qlty of air, energy consumption, tail-­pipe & GHG emissions, &clear visibility of outside through windows. Research GM Worldwide (GMW) reqmts in compliance with U.S. EPA, CARB OBD-­II, EU, China, &U.S. FMVSS regs, &SAE &ASHRAE standards. Use Dynamic Object Oriented Reqmts System (DOORS), Gears &Global Document Management (GDM) tools to create global reqmts. Dvlp prototype software for vehicle testing using MATLAB, Simulink, Stateflow, Rhapsody, MSYS MinGW, Real-­Time Workshop, Embedded Real-­Time Coder &Stateflow Coder. Write calibration guides &procedures. Present executive summaries of research work &results. Act as single point of contact for implementation of research work. Judge inventions submitted to thermal Invention Review Board (IRB). Interact with suppliers of components &systems for performance, cost &size trade-­offs. Provide training on HVAC &climate control systems to new engrs, technicians, strategists &performance engrs. Master, Control Systems, Systems &Control, Electrical, or Thermal Engineering. 12 mos exp as Engineer, researching HVAC systems, &Climate Control Systems in conventional, hybrid, electric, fuel-­cell, &autonomous vehicles for thermal comfort of occupants, qlty of air, energy consumption, tail-­pipe &GHG emissions, &clear visibility of outside through windows, &using DOORS &GDM or related tools to create global reqmts. Mail resume to Ref#2410, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-­C32-­D44, Detroit, MI 48265.

HELP WANTED Seeking

HEAD SOFTBALL COACH AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY Athletics Department

Trion ns Solutio a solution for

Jazz at Bert’s Market Place

Vibracoustic North America, LP seeks Senior Application Engineer in Farmington Hills MI, responsible for customer contact with automobile original equipment manufacturers in North America, Europe and Asia; utilize engineering background, technical experience, and relationship building skills to gain new business opportunities through professional contact with customer engineering, among other duties. Min. bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related and five years of experience in the job offered or related. Please send resume to: Marcy Klavins, Vibracoustic North America, LP, 400 Aylworth Avenue, South Haven, MI 49090, Ref #7825176.

Seeking

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is soliciting RFPs for Transit Asset Management Professional Services, Control No. 17-2353. RFP forms may be obtained beginning on June 14, 2017 from www.mitn.info.

RFPs are due by 3:00 PM ET, July 19, 2017.

June 14-21, 2017

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

This position will administer an educationally sound competitive softball program for female student-athletes, within the rules and policies of any conference Oakland University may enter and NCAA legislated guidelines, and within the assigned fiscal budget as allocated.

Includes student-athlete recruitment & retention, scheduling, conducting practice sessions, conditioning programs, fundraising and public relations activities and scouting/ game preparation.

Minimum qualifications require a Bachelor’s degree in related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Three years college experience as an Assistant Coach at a Division I school or as a Head Coach in Divisions II or III. History of successful recruiting. Knowledge of Michigan recruiting. This is a full time position.

Compensation commensurate with education and experience. Refer to online posting for additional qualifications and requirements.

First consideration will be given to those who apply by June 22, 2017.

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

Page D-4

PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED

CAE Engineer

Warren, MI, General Motors. Dvlp &apply new optimization methods &tools for vehicle performance improvement &mass reduction in vehicle dynamics using Multi-­ Disciplinary Optimization (MDO). Perform structural optimization incldg shape, sizing, Topology &Topometry &try out different methods to improve the optimization process. Perform shape, weld &adhesive optimization using Meshworks to minimize the mass &cost of the vehicle. Prepare &run simulation models on multiple vehicle concepts for future vehicle architecture.

Setup linear models for use in automated loop of vehicle dynamics using Multi-­ Disciplinary Optimization (MDO). Master, Mechanical Engrg or Computer Aided Engrg, or related. 6 mos exp as Engineer, dvlpg &applying new optimization methods &tools for vehicle performance improvement &mass reduction in vehicle dynamics using MDO, performing structural optimization incldg shape, sizing, Topology &Topometry. Mail resume to Ref#573, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-­C32-­D44, Detroit, MI 48265.

Assistant Program Manager

Warren, MI, General Motors. Partner with Design Directors, Sculpting Managers, Studio Engrg Managers running the Design Studio. Support Design Program Manager &lead Design Dept teams such as Creative Designers, Digital Sculptors, Clay Sculptors, &Color &Trim (C&T) in dvlpmt of competitive passenger vehicles &small SUVs for U.S., global, &emerging market automotive program, to meet all Global Vehicle dvlpmt Process (GVDP) reqmts achieving cost &qlty targets. Coordinate the Program Operating Plans. Define schedule &conduct major program gate reviews with senior company leadership.

Ensure the proper qlty execution &correct cadence of the GVDP deliverables by leading the internal Design dvlpmt teams to complete Single Team Data release (STD), Design Sign Off (DSO), Styling Freeze (SF), Color &Trim Design Appearance Release (CTDAR) &Verified Data Release (VDR) with on-time performance &first time qlty, &internal deliverables incldg clay &prototype models to be developed by internal shops &new materials to be develop with external suppliers. Make program status visible in the studio. Lead program change management process. Report late change metrics. Bachelor, Transportation Design, Product Design or Design. 12 mos exp as Design Execution Lead, Design Execution Quality Lead or related, ensuring proper qlty execution &dvlpg passenger vehicle for global &emerging market programs, to meet GVDP (or related) reqmts achieving cost &qlty targets. Mail resume to Ref#7640, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-D44, Detroit, MI 48265.

Senior Creative Designer

Warren, MI, General Motors. Design &dvlp concept &production passenger cars from early napkin sketch to full size working prototype and/or production cars. Assess proposed architecture solutions &focus on the best interest of the company’s future products.

Design future passenger car, truck, &SUV full concepts incldg vehicle exterior body in white systems, incldg doors, roof systems, hoods, rocker panels, fenders, front fascia, A/B/C/D pillars, headlamps, tail lamps, turn signals, wheels, radiator grilles, outside rear view mirrors &antennas, door handles, roof racks &LED technologies, using Adobe Photoshop, Autodesk Alias Automotive, VRED, &PowerPoint. Sketch &propose concepts &mockups of vehicle architectures &functions such as lighting, full vehicle front end, &radar systems. Translate 2D sketches into 3D by giving directions to the 3D sculptors to create 3D models as close as possible to the sketch.

Mentor junior &student designers. Bachelor, Transportation Design or Industrial Design. 12 mos exp as Creative Designer or Automotive Designer, designing future passenger vehicle full concepts incldg vehicle exterior body in white systems, incldg doors, roof systems, hoods, rocker panels, fenders, front fascia, A/B/C/D pillars, headlamps, tail lamps, wheels, radiator grilles, outside rear view mirrors, door handles, roof racks &LED technologies, using Adobe Photoshop, Autodesk Alias Automotive, VRED, &PowerPoint. Mail resume to Ref#1315, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-D44, Detroit, MI 48265.

Fathers Day Sunday June 18

Senior Body Structure Release Engineer

Warren, MI, General Motors. Dvlp global complex body-in-white body integrated (BOF) &body integrated frame (BIF) architectures for passenger cars, CUVs/SUVs, &mid/full-size trucks from Architecture Framing Initiation (AFI) dvlpmt to start of regular production (SORP).

Define BOF &BIF body structure performance according to Component Technical Specification (CTS), Sub-System Technical Specification (SSTS), Vehicle Technical Specifications (VTS) &certification compliance with frontal crash, side impact, roof crush, occupant safety &pedestrian protection regulations (U.S., Europe, Asia, Middle East &Latin America) defined by FMVSS, UN ECE, &USNCAP standards, &IIHS recommendations. Solve highly complex technical issues &conduct advance research to improve BIW load path topology of structural parts such as rockers, center pillars, A-pillars, &roof rails with application of light-weight materials such as Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS), Ultra High Strength Steel (UHSS) &Press Hardened Steel (PHS). Bachelor, Mechanical, Automotive, Naval/Marine, or Aerospace Engineering. 12 mos exp as Engineer, defining BOF &BIF body structure performance according to component specifications &certification compliance with frontal crash, side impact, roof crush, occupant safety &pedestrian protection regulations (U.S., Europe, Asia, Middle East &Latin America) defined by FMVSS, UN ECE, &NCAP standards, &IIHS recommendations. Mail resume to Ref#1122, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-D44, Detroit, MI 48265.

June 1 thru July 4 Fireworks Safety Month

MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

National Home Safety Month MICHIGAN CHRONICLE Published Every Wendnesday

June 14-20:

National Men’s Health Week

praise connection

The Word Network files FCC complaint against Comcast The Word Network, the leading and most popular African-American religious network in the world, told the FCC that Comcast violated its obligations codified in the FCC’s Order approving the merger between Comcast-NBC Universal when it unilaterally removed The Word Network from nearly 7 million homes in January.

The FCC’s Order prohibits Comcast from discriminating against networks such as The Word Network based on affiliation or non-affiliation with Comcast.

At the same time as Comcast decreased distribution for The Word Network – the

leading network in its category – it has given networks Comcast owns better distribution and financial terms even for Comcast’s poorly performing networks.

This is not the first time Comcast has flaunted its commitments in the Comcast-NBC Universal merger.

In addition, denying millions of African Americans access to religious programming on which they rely belies Comcast’s public commitments to diversity, which it very publicly promoted at the time it was seeking approval of the merger with NBC Universal.

The Word Network is con-

fident that the Commission will see through Comcast’s transparent actions to promote the NBC Universal networks they now own, while making harmful and discriminatory actions against minority networks such as The Word Network.

In the complaint to the FCC, The Word Network tells the Commission: “Comcast’s treatment of [the independent, unaffiliated Word Network] is precisely the behavior about which the Commission was concerned during its review of the Comcast’s acquisition of NBC Universal.”

CLASSIFIEDS HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

PROJECT MANAGER Dürr Systems, Inc. has available positions of Project Manager in Southfield, MI. Though the position of Project Manager is based in Southfield, MI, the Project Manager will be required to travel 50% of working time to customer sites in North America, Europe, & Asia. Position requires 60 months experience as a Manufacturing Manager.

Position also requires: Exp. must include: 1) 60 mos. exp. developing & controlling schedules for procurement, engineering, installation, fabrication, & commissioning or run-off; & 2) 24 mos. exp. making technical presentations to customers & prospective customers. Exp. reqs. may be met concurrently during the same 60-mo. period. Job duties: Manage, direct, & motivate teams located in multiple countries to engineer, procure, manufacture, install, & commission state-of-the-art paint finishing facilities.

Organize & run project meetings. Set up & assign job site responsibilities. Review estimates & control project costs. Make technical presentations to customers & prospective customers. Interact with customer on a regular basis. Resolve team & customer conflicts. Develop & control schedules for procurement, engineering, installation, fabrication, & commissioning or run-off. Process customer changes. Develop executive summaries & meet project financial goals & customer satisfaction & quality reqs. We are an equal opportunity employer & all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, marital or veteran status, the presence of a medical condition or disability, height, weight, or any other protected status.

We maintain a drug-free work place & perform pre-employment drug & alcohol testing.

Qualified applicants should send resume & verification of reqs. to Kristy Summers, Human Resources Assistant, Dürr Systems, Inc., 26801 Northwestern Highway, Southfield, MI 48033.

Ken Bell, former Detroit radio personality Services for Ken Bell will take place on Saturday, June 17, 11 am, at Little Rock Baptist Church, 9000 Woodward Ave., with the family hour starting at 10 am. Public viewing is at Swanson Funeral Home, 14751 W. McNichols, on Friday, June 16, 3 to 8 pm, Elks service at 6 pm.

Ken Bell, born Alfred Smith on July 27, 1937 to Catherine Smith in Valdosta, Georgia, began his long radio career on WJLB in Detroit, calling himself “the Master Blaster.” There was even a Ken Bell fan club. He attended the New York School of Broadcast Arts and the University of Paris. He was also an army and air force veteran.

In addition to his radio work, Mr. Bell managed several night clubs in Detroit and at one point owned a night club, Celebrity East. He also worked for Polygram Records as a promoter and owned a limousine service.

CAMPUS POLICE OFFICER External - Full-time position (E004-17) Reports To: District Director, Public Safety Grade / Level: Non Union ($20.00 per hour) Applications will be accepted until positions are filled.

Summary of Duties: Under the direction of the Director of Public Safety, law enforcement work involving the protection of life and property, and the enforcement of laws and ordinances on all property owned and operated by Wayne County Community College District. Employees may be designated to represent the police department in various uniform and non-uniform capacities. MCOLES sworn police officer will perform all related duties including, but not limited to, patrolling on foot or by vehicle, college property and on the public way adjacent to all college owned or controlled property to prevent and discover the commission of crimes; enforce State and Federal laws; enforce traffic regulations; conduct investigations on criminal offenses and traffic accidents to gather evidence, obtain witnesses and make arrests; provide documentation and testimony to Judicial Board and courts; and provide general security for college properties and citizens on campus to insure a safe environment for all.

General Requirements • Must be MCOLES certified. Previous experience as an MCOLES police officer preferred.

• Must be a U.S. Citizen, at least 21 years of age.

• Possession of a valid driver’s license.

• Ability to work as a team player in a multi-cultural diverse working environment.

• Experience with multi-cultural students and staff preferred.

• Each applicant must meet the minimum employment standards for Police Officers as established by the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES). http://www.michigan.gov/mcoles/0,4607,7-229-150169--,00.html Additional Requirements: Successful candidate must demonstrate ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Applicants are subject to a background check for criminal convictions; a drug/alcohol dependency test (medical) will be conducted as a condition of employment.

Please reference this staffing number on all documents: E001-16 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER M/F/H/V Mail Resume to: Wayne County Community College District, Attention: Human Resources, 801 W. Fort Street, Detroit, MI 48226 Or e-mail your resumes to: jobs@wcccd.edu

Mr. Bell, who was instrumental in the career development of Donnie “the Luv Bug” Simpson, was a staunch believer in giving back.

He was a member of the Optimist Club and the Benevolent and Protected Order of the Elks-Metro #962, Highland Park.

Jan. 31, 1970 was declared Ken Bell Day in Detroit by then-mayor Roman Gribbs.

In 2013, Mr. Bell and his wife, Dorothy, moved to Florida. His first wife, Bettye, preceded him death.

Cherishing the memory of Ken Bell are his wife, Dorothy; his children, Alfred Smith, Bernice Eppes, Denyce Mosley, Kenneth Smith, Rochelle Kelly, Daran Rice, Wallace Rice, Derwin Eppes, Vincent Mosley and Rachelle Smith; and many other relatives and friends.

Interment will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery.

Swanson Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Norene Lawson On June 3, services for Norene Lawson were held at Clinton Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church with Rev. Ronald L. Bailey officiating. Mrs. Lawson passed away on May 27, 2017.

Norene Lawson was born in Kekalb, Mississippi on Sept. 26, 1919 to Johnnie and Ethel Holton. After moving to Detroit, she married Walter Lawson, in 1942, and they were blessed with three children, Joyce Anne, Leroy David and Pamela Nell. Her husband embraced Mrs. Lawson’s daughter, Barbara Jean. They were married for 62 wonderful years.

Norene Lawson’s memory is being cherished by her children, Joyce Anne, Pamela Nell and Leroy David, and many other relatives and friends.

Swanson’s Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Interment took place at Elmwood Cemetery.

Education: • Must be a high school graduate, or equivalent, Associates Degree preferred

WWW.MICHIGANCHRONICLE.COM

June 14-20, 2017 Page D-5

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Hattie Kate Williams-Fields Services for Hattie Kate Williams-Fields were held on May 30 at Samaritan Missionary Baptist Church. Rev. Gary Gay officiated. Mrs. Williams-Fields passed away on May 24, 2017.

Hattie Kate Williams-Fields was born on 3, 1948 to Thomas and Annie Williams in Macon, Georgia.

The family relocated to Detroit when she was very young. She was educated in the Detroit Public Schools and earned an associate of arts degree from Henry Ford Community Choir.

An active churchwoman, Mrs. Williams-Fields married Melvin T. Fields in 1981.

She was employed as a kitchen supervisor at Joe Muer Seafood Restaurant and the St. Regis Hotel.

Cherishing the memory of Hattie Kate Williams-Fields are her sons, Horatio and Jermaine; daughter, Tonya; three sisters, Jacqueline, Dorothy and Nettie; and many other relatives and friends.

Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Interment took place at Elmwood Cemetery.

Rovenia Dwyer-Perry On June 5, services for Rovenia Perry were held at Tennessee Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor Milbrun L. Pearson II officiating. Mrs. Perry passed away on May 30, 2017.

Rovenia Dwyer-Perry was born on Aug. 29, 1932 to George and Estell McCoy in Sumter, South Carolina. At an early age she moved to New York with her father, but returned to Sumter where she married Samuel Dwyer, and they were blessed with a daughter, Sandra.

Are you hosting a concert or faith-friendly event?

Are you celebrating an anniversary or special occasion?

PROMOTE IT HERE!

PRAISE PRAISE CONNECT CONNECT Contact us at: 313.963.5522

Are you hosting a concert or faith-

In 1950, the family moved to Detroit. She held several jobs over the years, including waitressing, and later worked for Parke-Davis, from which she retired in 1999.

In April 1985, she married Thomas Perry and was blessed with two more daughters, Johnnie and Cathy.

Rovenia Dwyer-Perry’s memory is being cherished by her husband, Thomas; daughters, Sandra, Cathy and Johnnie; and many other relatives and friends.

Swanson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Rev. Dock Norflette Mersier Services for Rev. Dock Norflette Mersier took place ­ on Saturday, May 27, at Christian Temple Baptist Church.

Mr. Mersier, born Dec. 1, 1923, passed away on May 18, 2017.

The family hour also took place at Christian Temple Baptist Church. Public viewing was at Swanson Funeral Home, east side location. Interment took place at Woodlawn Cemetery.

Swanson Funeral Home handled all arrangements.

BUDGET HEARING NOTICE: Rescheduled Date THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE Cornerstone Health and Technology School District is conducting its annual budget hearing on June 27, 2016 at 7:30 am at the Cornerstone Health and Technology School.

The location is 17351 Southfield Freeway, Detroit, MI 48235.

The budget is available for public inspectionat the same address.

The meeting will be conducted in accordance with the Open Meetings Act.

Page D-6 • THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE • June 14-20, 2017

TOTALLY THERE FOR YOU

It only takes

2

to Total.

Whether you’ve got 200, 2,000 or just 2 employees, your business is big to us.

At Total Health Care USA, we think that every group we enroll is equally important, regardless of how many people are in it.

That’s why we’ve made the flexibility of our POS plan available to groups of any size, so you can offer your employees more provider possibilities while maintaining manageable premiums.

Find out how far we’ll go for you.

Make The Smart Choice.

313.871.7888 | THCmi.com marketing@THCmi.com /TotalHealthCareUSA

Total Health Care is a state-licensed, nonprofit corporation

THC_08320_MI_Chronicle_2017_June.indd 1

4/14/17 12:13 PM