Sept/Oct, 2017 SMART PAGES DBUSINESSETR - POLITICS OI- COMMUNITYT “Building Business to Business and Business to Community Relationships” Mike Morse, Giving Back 80,000 Backpacks With Supplies pg. 3

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Hats Off to 124 Years Henry The Hatter pg. 11

Meet Flint’s Newest Entrepreneurs pg. 9

Racism, Regionalism and Reconciliation Professor Peter Hammer pgs. 18-19

Women’s Informal Network Celebrates 25 Years with Black Tie Gala pg. 6

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APPLICATIONS DUE OCTOBER 1, 2017 Apply Online at www.MotorCityMatch.com 844-DET4MCM (844-338-4626) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017 | PAGE 2 COVER STORY MIKE Morse Law Firm Donates Backpacks To Detroit Students For 4th Year With “Teacher Totes” Added This Year By Ross Lerner eptember 5 begins the new own pockets to provide paper, pen- school year for many students cils and other items. We have set out in Michigan. And for the to change that.” Sfourth year in a row, Detroit Public New this year are the “Teacher Schools Community District stu- Totes” filled with basic classroom

Attorney Mike Morse with Interim Sr. Executive Director of Communications & Marketing for DPSCD Chrystal Wilson.

dents will go back to school with supplies and Pre-K “Starter Kits” backpacks full of supplies donat- with pencils, glue sticks, crayons, ed by Mike Morse Law Firm. But markers and more. that’s not all. In addition to the “This annual donation helps 25,000 backpacks that will go to all to remove financial burdens for our K-5 DPSCD students, the firm will K-5 parents who might have difficul- “School is hard enough,” said Morse. “Kids shouldn’t have to attend without

the notebooks, pencils, and everything for Morse, who’s mom was a school supplies, because their families sim- else they need.” teacher. ply can’t afford them. I’m working “So many kids have to go to to make sure kids don’t have to face school without the proper supplies. also provide 3,000 “Teacher Totes” the challenge of not having the prop- ty with basic necessities; and it adds Without a backpack, a notebook, to DPSCD teachers and 6,000 Pre-K er supplies.” said Morse. “School a small token of appreciation for our even a pencil. They don’t have the “Starter Kits” for the school district’s teachers,” said Nikolai Vitti, Super- is hard enough. Kids shouldn’t have preschool classrooms. intendent, Detroit Public Schools “This annual donation to attend without the notebooks, pen- cils, and everything else they need.” “We are proud to expand our ef- Community District. “It is our hope helps to remove finan- forts and do even more to help level that we can continue to identify ways cial burdens for our K-5 the playing field in our schools,” said to provide essential resources to sup- The backpacks and supplies parents who might have attorney Mike Morse, leader of the port teaching and learning,” will be distributed during the first largest personal injury firm in Mich- Morse started Project Backpack difficulty with basic neces- few days of school. Each student gets igan. “Over the last four years it has four years ago and has provided over sities; and it adds a small a backpack, plus folders, notebooks, been rewarding to hear from children 80,000 backpacks filled with sup- token of appreciation for pencils, scissors, and families who tell us these sup- plies to DPSCD students since 2013. our teachers,” said Nikolai glue, crayons. The supplies are grade plies add excitement, give students He wanted to do something to make Vitti, Superintendent, an extra boost of confidence and appropriate. a big impact for the people of this Detroit Public Schools even help improve grades. We know area. Helping students was a natural that many teachers pay out of their Community District.

www.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 3

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE Is Detroit Standing Behind its Longstanding Businesses? hen we heard the news that articles will be written by Newcomers a nerve with me the most was by Tony Tony commented that Henry the Hatter had to leave about Native Detroiters to uncover Detroi- Stovall, co-owner of Hot Sam’s Cloth- its downtown location after ter’s unique stories, their businesses, their ier, another iconic business in downtown he was so sorry to see a W124 years this year, it was a shock felt values and their commitment to the city. Detroit since 1921. Tony commented that longstanding business throughout the entire city and the metro close under the circum- area. I spoke with Paul Wasserman, the I spoke with Paul Wasserman, the cur- stances and stated that, current owner and it was a shock to rent owner and it was a shock to him as “there should be some him as well when well when his lease was not renewed by special plan for long- his lease was not re- the current landlord, the Sterling Group. standing businesses, newed by the current like they do for new pop landlord, the Sterling No, it wasn’t because the rent was Group. No, it wasn’t raised, nor was he behind on any pay- up stores.” because the rent BEVERLY SMITH was raised, nor was ments; the Sterling Group just decided all of the hard times and now are discard- he behind on any payments; the Sterling not to renew his lease and gave him no ed and thrown away like garbage. It made Group just decided not to renew his lease explanation for the decision. me angry all over again when Paul told and gave him no explanation for the deci- me the reason he had to close and move. sion. So Paul didn’t have a choice but to Did anybody come to Paul’s res- vacate the premises. As you read the sto- cue? Where is the city? Millions of dol- ry behind the business on page 11 of this But in this article, the ending had he was so sorry to see a longstanding lars for entrepreneurship, buildings being issue, you will appreciate what it takes to be changed to bring attention to the business close under the circumstances sold to corporations for pennies on the to remain in business for so many years. recent closing of this iconic business in and stated that, “there should be some dollar, but no pennies thrown Paul’s way Fortunately, Paul’s story was al- the heart of downtown. Henry the Hat- special plan for longstanding business- to relocate him in another location. He is ready written for Smart Pages before we ter, the oldest hat store in the country es, like they do for new pop up stores.” left on his own to find a location or close knew of the store’s closing but the ending right here in our city. To add to the arti- I totally agree with Tony’s senti- this jewel permanently. I made a call to was unforeseen. Through collaboration cle, I asked a few business owners and ments. There should be something in place Bedrock to see if they would help. I am with Detroit “Thank You” Awards, Native longtime customers for comments about just for situations like this. These business hoping that they are still working on it. Newcomers and Crain’s Business, many the closing. The comment that really hit owners have remained in the city, through Beverly Smith- [email protected] 313-268-3523 INSPIRATIONAL CORNER Lessons & Blessings Lessons: ife is full of lessons that are around you. Keep in mind that the pag- People often think mercy and grace ponder – we need to ask our Heaven- learned through our experienc- es of our lives are already written; they are the same, but they are not. Mercy ly Father to allow our prayers to be es. Lessons are instructions that are not being written day by day as we is deliverance from judgment. Grace according to His Will, and allow us Lare given to us in hopes that we will go through life. Therefore, do not take is blessings from our Heavenly Father, to learn from whatever lesson He is learn from them and your life for granted. Appreciate your extending His love and kindness to the trying to bring to our attention, and to carry them through. lessons and always acknowledge your unworthy. Our prayer to our Heavenly humble us so we can appreciate what- Lessons can be ad- blessings. Father should be asking Him for His ever blessing we receive. monishments from mercy and to withhold the judgment Simply put…we need the desire our elders, encour- Blessings: we deserve and instead, grant to us the to truly know our Heavenly Father as agement, from Life is also full of blessings, but forgiveness we in no way have earned. He really is and actually exist; not as often we forget about our blessings – our families, and Every day we live is an act of mercy we think He is and want Him to be. we take them for granted as if we should support from our from our Heavenly Father. If He gave Just as, once we learn from our les- receive blessings because we are good spouses. We re- us all what we deserve, we would all be sons, we can apply them in our lives BARBARA BRAZILE people. Blessings are favors we receive ceive lessons from condemned for eternity. and see why we had to go in the di- from our Heavenly Father, not because our parents, teachers in school and in In retrospect, so much of life rections we were taken. We will then of something we deserve or something college. Believe it or not - some ex- is wasted on worry, regret, pain, and understand and see the benefits to our we did, because our Heavenly Father tremely valuable lessons can be learned heartache. These things are inevitable happiness, peace, and well-being. from strangers. Although some les- does not owe us anything. If we ex- and necessary. We do not need to spend sons must be learned through experi- People often think mercy and grace ence, we don’t have to wait until mid- life to become aware of what’s truly are the same, but they are not. CONTACT INFO: Barbara Brazile meaningful and worthwhile. President, Brazille Enterprises Remember that everything hap- perience anything good in our lives, it all our time sweating over yesterday E-mail: [email protected] pens for a reason. Though you may not is a result of the blessings and grace of and things we cannot change. Every Phone: 248.766.2726 know why it happened at the time, but our Heavenly Father (Ephesians 2:5). step that we take each day of our lives, there is a lesson to be learned from it. Grace is simply defined as unmerited every word that we utter, every thought Just be still, listen and watch everything favor. that we think, and every intent that we

www.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 4 SMART BUSINESS PRACTICES So, What’s Your Business Worth usiness owners, it might actually There are three distinct factors to consider when determining your business value. surprise and shock you to learn how different lending institu- MARKET ASSET REVIEW INCOME REVIEW Btions assess your value; can you even Current position of Current equipment Balance Sheet comparison imagine? Well, from the conversations similar participants value based on market and liquidation position I’ve had with var- Publication standards sell price Open and secured Revenue performance ious lenders you’d per Industry contracts bound to and position be very surprised to Brand recognition the enterprise Business annual earnings hear that inventory in the marketplace Managerial and leadership Owner’s earnings and older than 90 days SIC Code Data effectiveness compensation may be diluted by Warranties 70%. So, if you’re a retail store selling give you a little insight to the process. need to carry, how much working cap- The team includes: Let’s face it, we should practice the pro- ital you need to support your growth, • a patent, trademark, and intellectual LAURA SIGMON fashion wear, be mindful of what cess or at least know the process that lend- and should you decide; how much property attorney you have in your store and if you have ers use regarding our marketable value. you can ask for when you sell your • an accountant merchandise older than 3 months… well The first box indicates how you business. Knowledge really is power! • a business strategist you get the picture! It was said that ser- stand next to your competitors. The For information, a small group of • a retail guru vice invoices which are older than 60 days second box is strictly an internal re- industry experts have assembled to sup- • a marketing expert only have 50% of their original value, flection of what you have, own, and port local businesses. This assembled • government/private market contract and older than that is technically a write- your leadership strength. The last box team meets once a month and works specialist off or recorded as uncollectable. This is a blended review; it reflects both as a roundtable of business consultants. • commercial realtor news made me rethink how I instruct cli- your liquid or cash position and it’s Imagine having these people on your For more information on the ents and how I manage my own affairs. really all about your performance. payroll, for only $50.00. The group Detroit Small Business Roundtable Con- Several business owners have If you know the information ref- will collectively meet with you and of- sultants, please contact me or the editor. asked me why is it so hard to get a erenced above, then you’re in good fer assistance when and where needed. loan, well if they’re-diluting what you shape to defend and represent your CONTACT INFO: and I consider major collateral, that own self-assessed business valuation. Laura Sigmon helps to explain a bit of the disconnect. You now possess everything you need Best Practices Consulting Services, LLC to determine how much insurance you 2727 2nd Avenue, Suite 266 • Detroit, MI 48201 • www.BestPractices So, the purpose of this article is to ConsultingServices.com • (O) 313.265.3062 (F) 313.355.9371 • (C) 313.757.1695 ASK THE TECH GUY How To Choose An Affordable Laptop Computer To Fit Your Needs t’s about that time where you will find for word processing and web browsing, a STORAGE: tech deals just about every place you laptop with an entry level processor like If you don’t need a huge hard $500 or so. These machines aren’t going to look and life is hard enough without an Intel Atom, Celeron or Pentium is ac- drive, definitely consider a system with make a power user fall in love. But, for ba- Iworrying about which laptop to buy. For ceptable.These processors typically lack a solid state drive. These drives run sic web browsing, office work, and movie anyone shopping for the horsepower for higher education tasks faster and cooler than their mechanical streaming, a $500 laptop nowadays is a a new system, the like computer aided design and video pro- counterparts because they have no mov- much better proposition than it was fifteen choices can seem over- duction. I recommend choosing a model ing parts. They cost a bit more, but in years ago, when I entered the marketplace. whelming. With so with at least an Intel Core i3 or i5 proces- my opinion, they’re worth every dime. In closing, when evaluating and many models, options sor. These systems tend to have more ro- choosing a laptop, pay attention to the build KEYBOARD: and specifications to bust graphics hardware, making them bet- quality, screen resolution, keyboard, and Make sure you spend some time consider, you may feel ter suited for more demanding software. trackpad which are just as important as the with the keyboard to ensure that it is a like you need to sign up SIZE: specs. More than likely, this is a device you comfortable fit. If the keys feel mushy or WILLIE BRAKE for Laptop 101. Bar- How big do you want your lap- will be using every day. Even if you only not to your liking, move on to the next gain back-to-school lap- top to be? The size of the screen tends purchase a $500 laptop, be sure you’re get- model. Definitely consider a model with tops exist for a reason: Not everybody can to dictate the overall size of the system ting a system that feels like a quality lap- a backlit keyboard, which can make typ- afford a $2,000 laptop. To be honest, most and because students are always on the top, not two sheets of veneered plywood ing in dim lighting considerably easier. people don’t even need a $2,000 laptop. move, bigger might not be better. I had to held together with a rusty door hinge. If you are more than a moderate user In this article, I will discuss find out the hard way and wouldn’t want Willie E. Brake is a Computer Expert and can afford to spend $750 for a laptop, a few key options and help you se- anyone to lug around a 17” laptop unnec- at All About Technology, a Certified Mi- by all means do so. I performed an analy- lect a tech-savvy laptop for school. essarily unless you are spending most of nority Business Enterprise and Microsoft sis of some laptops in that range, and saw OPERATING SYSTEM: your time at a desk. An 11.6 or 13.3 inch Authorized Refurbisher, located at 6450 a major difference in performance. A new For starters, this is big. Win- screen will afford maximum mobility. Michigan Avenue in Detroit, Michigan. dows? or Mac? This is largely a mat- laptop that retails for around $500 will SCREEN: have you trading off one important feature ter of personal preference unless your CONTACT INFO: A touchscreen is not essential for most school has a specific requirement. If for another. You tend to get one standout Willie E. Brake is a Computer Expert and schoolwork, but it is a nice feature for any- that’s not the case, I recommend that you feature amidst a bunch of compromises. Industry Analyst at All About Technology, one that desires to scroll through documents a Certified Minority Business Enterprise choose the platform that you know best. I’ve found that laptops in the $750 price and web pages with the flick of a finger. range are generally more well-rounded. and Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher, SPEED: Touchscreen laptops tend to cost a bit more based in Detroit, Michigan. On the other hand, you can get a 313-218-4888 If you’re using your laptop mostly than their non-touchscreen counterparts. surprisingly competent laptop for around www.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 5 Women’s Informal Network Celebrates 25 Years! Black Tie Gala Honoring 12 Distinguished Men, October 27, 2017 he Women’s Informal Net- This year, WIN will recognize work (WIN) founded in 1992 12 distinguished men at the Black Tie by Patricia A. Cole will reach Founder’s Day Gala and Celebration Ta milestone this year as the non-prof- on October 27, 2017. The honorees are: it celebrates its 25th Anniversary • William Pickard on Friday, October 27, 2017 from • Lee Thomas 6:00p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Crowne • Bill Ross Plaza Hotel in downtown Detroit. • Donnell White WIN continues to fulfill its mission • Jason Lee of promoting the growth and devel- • Jason Cole opment of African American Women • Reginald McKenzie in Metropolitan Detroit each year in • Reginald Turner March at its Annual Women’s His- • Jalen Rose tory Month Luncheon titled, ”The • Rufus Bartell Most Influential African American • Jimmy Settles Women in metropolitan Detroit. • Marvin Beatty To date, WIN has recognized the accomplishments of over 500 wom- en in various vocations including, business, community leadership, the military, education, and journalism. Don’t miss this opportuni- food, door prizes, entertainment WIN supports programs that help ty to join WIN in celebrating its and a silent auction. Tickets are families in need, Heads-Up, a girls 25th Anniversary as they recognize $100 each and tables are $1000. mentoring program and financially these dynamic and deserving gen- For tickets, sponsorships and more supports other charitable organiza- tlemen that serve our community tions like the Detroit Area on Aging’s information, please contact, Bev- and support women in their profes- Grandparents Raising Grandchildren erly Smith at 313-268-3523. Visit: sional careers and personal lives. Program, the AugMe foundation, St. www.womensinformalnetwork.com Patrick’s Senior Center and the North The evening will include: fun, End Youth Improvement Council.

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SECURITY OVER-STOCK SALE 10 Color Options! Free Home Estimate Installed 1/2 OFF both Installation Sale 1-313-410-6432 for $649 www.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 6 SMART REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS You Can Stay, if You Can Pay ig things are happening in the facturing jobs lost during the reces- a living in the new District Detroit borhood” being used to describe cer- Motor City and if you’re not sion. market. This makes it nearly impos- tain areas. Downtown (aka, District a part of it, there is still hope Downtown Detroit is booming sible for local mom and pop retailers Detroit) has miraculously evolved Band a little time left. Although all and the growth is phenomenal, yet for to benefit from the growth and pros- into five new neighborhoods; Wood- the easy money has ward Square, Capitol Park, Brush been made already, Retail rental rates in the downtown area range from the Park (Wild Cat Corner), Willis Can- opportunity still ex- high $20 per square feet to the mid $30 per square feet, field District, Columbia Park, and ists in the Detroit triple net! These rates put an immediate hardship on Cass Park Village. I say miraculous- ly because these “neighborhoods” real estate scene. local retailers to participate in the growth, because only With the opening are not particularly neighborly to the of Little Caesars national brands can support that type of occupancy cost. hundreds of thousands of neighbors Arena just a couple who reside outside the district. Apparently creating new neigh- GARY L. SMITH of months away, many of the city’s residents it’s any- perity being generated. the city is poised thing but phenomenal and the only Current tenants find it hard to borhoods is more profitable than fix- for some incredible redevelopment. growth going on in the surrounding compete with the likes of tenants like ing old ones. Yes, there are many rea- While the rest of the nation is near neighborhoods are the weeds on va- Under Armour, Nike, and Shinola. sons to be excited about what’s going peak in terms of real estate values and cant lots. Sure there’s a retailer here New and smaller tenants are finding on in the city, however for most of us activity, Detroit is still in the expan- and there opening up a café or restau- it very challenging to find suitable it’s like being a visitor in your own sion phase of the cycle. rant on the Avenue of Fashion, but spaces in the Central Business Dis- home town. Both the Detroit Pistons and the those small mom and pop businesses trict (CBD) and Midtown areas. CONTACT INFO: Detroit Red Wings are set to play at can hardly create enough jobs that The writing is clearly on the Gary L. Smith, Managing Partner the new arena soon. This means De- pay well enough to support or feed a wall that downtown Detroit is not Business Consultants International, Inc. family-oriented. Yet, if you listen [email protected] troit will be the only city in the United family. (248)991-5705 States to house all four of its profes- The redevelopment of Harmony closely you’ll hear the term “neigh- sional sportsteams downtown. This is (aka, Paradise Valley) Park is moving good news for the city, and makes for along very slowly, at a snail’s pace a great Cinderella story. compared with other redevelopment All the development and re- projects going on around the city. No development going on in and around surprise here and I’m becoming sus- the city is cause for celebration, how- picious as to what the ultimate out- ever the only people celebrating are come of that redevelopment will look those in control of the developments. like. Sadly job growth is tepid in Detroit. Retail rental rates in the down- The very people who are financing town area range from the high $20 Apparently creating new neighborhoods is more profitable than fixing old ones. Yes, there are many reasons to be excited about what’s going on in the city, however for most of us it’s like being a visitor in your own home town. the tab to build the $1.2 billion proj- per square feet to the mid $30 per ect are the very citizens who won’t be square feet, triple net! These rates able to afford a seat inside the arena. put an immediate hardship on local Job growth is necessary for real retailers to participate in the growth, estate stabilization. Without a jobs, because only national brands can people cannot afford to live, work or support that type of occupancy cost. participate in the redevelopment of Sales per square feet for na- the city. Surrounding neighborhoods tional retailers in the Detroit District are dying a slow death, while those are mind blowing. If you’re a local south of the boulevard are experienc- entrepreneur you will not eat at this ing a rebirth not seen around here for table of wealth generation, because years! the cost for a seat is prohibitive. There is a persistent job short- You don’t need a calculator to do the age in Detroit! The majority of the math. If housing costs are north of jobs created by all the redevelopment $2.25 per square feet and retail space going on is mostly temporary jobs, at an average of $25 per square feet, hardly enough to replace the manu- you’ll be hard pressed to live or make

www.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 7 FINANCIAL PLANNING Don’t Follow the Herd…. here is a theory on Wall Street that the popular thinking is to steer clear of took that advice, you would have missed • Stay diversified. Keep your assets goes something like this: If you them, opportunities are often overlooked. out on one of the stock market’s best spread among investments likely to per- follow the crowd and buy the hot We saw this in 1982, when interest rates years. form differently under the same market Tinvestment of the day, chances are you’ll were high and companies had a difficult In response to market downturns, conditions. Profits from appreciated be scooping up shares when most others time impressing analysts with their earn- some investors shift a greater percentage investments will help offset losses from are about to sell. This ing potential. That period proved to be of their assets to money market funds. any losing investments. natural tendency to the beginning of a bull market that lasted Time and time again, this strategy has • Stay focused on your long-term goal. buy when everyone is more than 15 yrs. proven to be a mistake. Don’t try to avoid the downturn by euphoric can have you jumping out of the market. No one can buying at the wrong Investors often jump into an investment at accurately predict when it will rebound. time and not buying the wrong time because they are worried When considering investing, seek when you should. about what others are doing instead of fo- professional advice. Investors often ELLIS LIDDELL jump into an invest- cusing on good old-fashioned fundamentals ment at the wrong time such as the company’s earning potential or Ellis Liddell is the President of because they are worried about what oth- its management. ELE Wealth Management, LLC in ers are doing instead of focusing on good Southfield, MI. He is also the author old-fashioned fundamentals such as the On October 19, 1987 the Dow Jones Keep in mind that the stock market of “Wealth Management: Merging company’s earning potential or its man- Industrial Average fell 22% in one trading has experienced nearly twice as many Faith with Finance” and a member of the Million Dollar Roundtable. agement. session, the worst trading day since Oc- bullish periods as bearish periods over Mr. Liddell can be reached at (248) History has continually shown us tober 1929. However, that day brought time. that when individuals make investments 356-6555 or through his website: tremendous buying opportunity. Despite When times get tough for stocks, www.elewealth.com without the prudent basis for doing so, that decline to 1738 points, the Dow maintain your confidence in their long- Securities offered through they often wind up losing money that can closed at 10,159 on March 31, 2001- for term growth potential and use these sim- ELE Wealth Advisors, Inc., member take many years to recover. We saw this an annualized growth rate of 13.97%. ple strategies: FINRA. Advisory services offered in 1998-2000, when investors drove the At the end of 1994, a year in which • Reduce your cost by averaging down. through ELE Advisory Services, NASDAQ composite over 5000 – only to stock and bond markets both struggled If one of your stocks declines in value, Inc. ELE Wealth Advisors and ELE see it fall to less than 2000 the following because of the higher interest rates, the but the underlying business is still sound, Advisory Services, LLC are affiliat- year. common thinking was that 1995 was a consider buying more shares. You will ed through common ownership and History has also shown that when bad year for the financial markets. If you reduce your overall cost basis. control. individuals avoid investments because

www.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 8 FOURTHFEATURE OF A SIX ARTICLE PART SERIES: THE COMPLEXITIES OF THE N WORD Meet Flint’s Newest Entrepreneurs The Neighborhood Flint Small Business Initiative!

he Flint Small Business Ini- tiative is a small business The following are Flint’s Newest Entrepreneurs who completed boot camp program designed the training program and are ready to serve the community. Tto both test and document business practices for retail and non-retail entrepreneurs. The program is best Christopher Young, Antoine’s tailored for those beyond ideation. Burgers The average entrepreneur will either Antoine’s Burgers is a locally have multiple years of experience in owned food truck established in 2014 the market of interest or have active that services Flint and the Genesee momentum around their business County area. With more than 10 years venture. of experience working the local market To ensure activity flow, the in Flint by way of a mobile convey- participants are strongly encouraged ance. Christopher Young thoroughly to create a relationship with a com- understands market demand, customer munity partner. Community orga- orientation and profit maximization af- nizations with strong outreach can ter running a hot dog cart in Flint. The truly impact traffic for the entre- hot dog cart experience has led to the Ebonie Gipson, I’m Building preneur. The program is configured desire to expand the previous operation Something Consulting to run between 5 to 8 weeks with a to now a different more appealing food President and CEO Ebonie Gipson minimum of 3 platform demonstra- offering. has over 15 years of collective experience tions. The demonstrations are op- in Customer Relations, Retail Manage- portunities to explore and document ment, Leadership Training & Develop- true market placements and needed Therman Sisco, Sisco’s Catering ment, Marketing, Innovative Business adjustments. Sisco’s Catering has been a staple Strategies, Community Engagement and The Flint Small Business Ini- in the community by being the go to Entrepreneurial Development. Embarking tiative was designed and implement- for everything from everyday meals to on the road to entrepreneurship herself, she ed by Laura Sigmon, who has nearly exquisite functions. Having a business has chosen to focus her current endeavors two decades of corporate manage- that has served families for generations on developing aspiring and existing small ment experience with demonstrated is something that Therman is proud of. business owners. Based in the heart of abilities to anticipate and capitalize “We are passionate about people and Flint, MI Ebonie believes her efforts will on market trends. Her career ac- the community. We believe that food assist in establishing a durable, withstand- complishments are steeped in her makes everything better.” Built upon ing ecosystem causing small businesses ability to identify profit potential, the idea of Food, Family and Friends to grow successfully. Identifying oppor- and position business units or seg- Forever, this family business will be tunities for collaborative efforts through ments to maximize market share. sure to carry that for generations to community partnerships, she believes is a Laura acquired her management ex- come. Food offerings include: Salmon key component to the longevity of small perience by N’ Waffles, Sisco’s Famous Chicken businesses. “We have to figure out a way controlling Taco Salad, Big Mama’s Stuffed Corn- to successfully build others while ensuring regional bread, Savory Ham & Collard Greens, we build and invest in ourselves.” business Mac & Cheese units for FedEx Na- tional, USF Chef Talica Campbell, T.aste of Holland and C.ulture United Par- T.aste of C.ulture’s name alone is If you or your organization cel Services very meaningful, The “T.” and “C.” of (UPS). would like more information the name represents the initials of her Laura has strong manage- on this program, please contact first and last name. T.aste of C.ulture ment oversight as a change agent Laura Sigmon, President of Best was created to take your taste buds on including strategic planning, hu- a journey of cultural exploration. Her man resources management, cap- Practices Consulting Services, unique menu ranges from her signature ital improvement, budget/finance LLC. at 313-265-3062 or www. New Orleans inspired “T.aste of C.ul- and sourcing. She has devoted her bestpracticesconsultingservices. ture Gumbo”, delectable Jumbo Om- entrepreneurial pursuits to develop- elet’s, Specialty Soups and her famous ing and growing small businesses com. Photos by urgraphicsguy@ Wing Wednesday with original flavors throughout the State of Michigan. gmail.com such as Sweet Sriracha Lime and much more. www.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 9 Detroit Needs a city clerk we can trust to represent our voice. Credentials What Garlin will do: • Two engineering degrees from U of M • Make voting easy by • Microsoft software engineer using new tools and fixing the system • National Campaign Director, MoveOn.org • Give residents easy • Trained & Mobilized 36,000 volunteers access to information about City to re-elect President Obama in 2012 operations • Director of Innovation & Emerging Technology, City of Detroit • Fight for Detroit • Family: Beautiful wife and voters against voter suppression three-year-old twin son & daughter efforts • Grew up in Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church • Transparently count absentee ballots • Proud Democrat as soon as they’re returned

Garlin Gilchrist II will empower our voices and make our votes count.

Call: 313.855.5698 VOTE November 7th FOLLOW US ON @GilchristForCityClerk Paid for by Friends of Garlin Gilchrist - GilchristForCityClerk.com PO Box 32972, Detroit, MI 48232 www.detroitsmartpages.com COVER STORY “Hat’s off to 124 Years” by Carmine Di Maro (The following is part Henry the Hatter and shops like of a collaborative series of stories written it offer us all an insight into busi- by Detroit’s Newcomers about Native ness, and community, that shouldn’t Detroiters and their businesses, an initiative by Native <> Newcomer and Thank You be ignored. With their dedication to Detroit to uncover Detroiter’s unique sto- excellence and service to the Detroit ries, their businesses, their values and their community, I expect they’ll be serv- commitment to the city.) ing up the best in hats for a long time to come. enry the Hatter has unlocked Since I originally wrote this arti- the secret to long-term busi- cle, Henry the Hatter had to unexpect- ness success. By focusing on edly close the doors to its downtown Hthe customer and continuing to exper- location. The legendary Henry the iment they have stayed one step ahead Hatter was located at 1307 Broadway of the competition for 124 years. It’s in the heart of downtown Detroit. no secret that starting a business is hard, There is second location in the New and staying in business is even harder. Orleans Mall at 15616 W. 10 Mile Rd, Close to 543,000 new businesses start Southfield. 248-557-7770. every month in the US and the vast Detroit Smart Pages asked a majority of these will fail within just few downtown business owners and a few years. It takes a lot of planning, a loyal customer to comment on the hard work, and luck to even make it to closing of Henry the Hatter’s down- the decade-old club. But what about the somebody who loves what they do and today. They think about what the cus- town location. century-old club? led me to his office to talk “hattery”. tomer might want tomorrow as well. “A longstanding Detroit down- Out of the 28 million small firms Paul started running the business According to Paul, they are constantly town business; sorry to see them in the US today, only about 700 compa- with his father Seymour back in 1973. ordering small batches of experimen- leave. There should be some special nies can claim to be a part of this league His father had been running the store tal fashions to test the market. “If a plan for longstanding businesses in since buying it from its original own- hat doesn’t sell, we’re quick to mark it the city of Detroit like they do for pop- er, Detroit native Henry Komrofsky, in down and move on.” up stores. Hot Sam’s since 1921- never 1948. He told me stories of coming into I also had the chance to talk to Paul left and never will- Detroit Forever! the store as a 6-year old and “breaking about the massive changes happening Opportunity Detroit for All Detroit.” everything in sight.” downtown. As someone who has been Tony Stovall “ I have more hats from Henry But he also expressed concerns for small the Hatter than I can count and I’m businesses that will have to manage in- sure more than I can remember. I creasing costs of leases and competition have a collection of quality hats based on style, season and color. I believe from national chains. I asked him what what makes a well dressed man is to piece of advice he might give to Mr. Gilbert be dressed from head to toe. Henry the if the chance arose: “Keep in the back of Hatter helps complete the look. When I your mind that the character of a city is its go to the Kentucky Derby, I always stop PAUL WASSERMAN by Henry the Hatter and the staff makes individual small businesses.” sure that I have the right style, color, of extraordinary businesses. One of bands and feathers to give me that them is located in the heart of Down- I asked the younger Wasserman here for less than a year, it was incredi- spectacular and dynamic look that De- town Detroit. Henry the Hatter has been what kept them going for so long, es- ble to hear Paul’s take on things. On the troit is known for.” I am extremely sad- outfitting Detroit (and beyond) with the pecially in a business that has changed whole, Paul had a positive attitude and dened to see the Detroit location close latest in hat fashion since 1893. I had quite a bit since the days of top-hats is confident that Henry the Hatter will after so many memorable moments that the opportunity to sit down with current and bowlers. He told me that it came be a part of the Detroit story for a long I spent shopping for that perfect hat.” owner Paul Wasserman and learned down to listening to their customers. time to come. “Visionaries have spec- Judge Craig Strong about how they accomplished this in- When the dress-code at the Big Three ulated in the past about all the things “Henry the Hatter leaving this lo- credible feat. automakers included the standard grey Detroit could be, but Dan (Gilbert) is cation is a major loss for Detroit. They When I first pushed my way in off dress hat, Henry’s had it in every size. the first to come in and force the is- have been an anchor store in one of the of Broadway it was like being trans- When the Kangol hat became big in the sue.” But he also expressed concerns few viable shopping areas still around ported to a different world. One where 80’s thanks to hip-hop artists like Run- for small businesses that will have from the Detroit’s golden years of re- people have a lot more style than my- DMC, you could find every variation to manage increasing costs of leases tail. We, along with the other retail- self and hats are the name of the game. at Henry’s. Today the trend is towards and competition from national chains. ers in our area, are doing everything I found Mr. Wasserman crafting their edgier styles, smaller brims, and vari- I asked him what piece of advice he we can to find a location within the Spring window display, carefully posi- ous fashion-forward caps and as always might give to Mr. Gilbert if the chance Broadway/ Gratiot area for Henry the tioning the hats that he expects to sell you can find it at 1307 Broadway Street. arose: “Keep in the back of your mind Hatter to call home.” Pepper Martin, with the warm weather. He immediate- But Henry the Hatter doesn’t just that the character of a city is its indi- owner of The Broadway since 1975. ly greeted me with the enthusiasm of listen to what the customer is saying vidual small businesses.” ([email protected])

www.detroitsmartpages.comwww.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 11 SMART BUSINESS PROFILE Detroit Vegan Soul Opens Second Location

Mission Accomplished! The gredients are fresh, mostly organ- first Detroit Vegan Soul (EAST) ic, and completely plant-based. The restaurant opened in September of restaurant has several soy free and 2013 at 8029 Agnes St. on Detroit’s gluten-free options and the menu is east side. “Soul Food made from prepared without GMOs, additives, Whole Food” was the message then preservatives, refined flours, sugars, and that message has been widely dairy, eggs or animal by products and received by hundreds of customers with LOTS OF LOVE. transforming to meatless diets for a The main advantages of a plant- healthier lifestyle. Co-owners Erika based diet seem to be more related to Boyd and Kirsten Ussery are sharing the foods you’re eating lots of (veg- that message every day and now they etables, fruits, whole grains, beans, have 2 locations to prove that their nuts) rather than those you’re eating customer base has grown and is still less of (meat). “When you base your growing. meals on plant foods, you’re pack- Erika and Kirsten both learned ing your diet with the fiber, vitamins, after years of a meat based diet that minerals, and healthy fats that most they wanted to break the cycle of diet Americans don’t get enough of,” says related diseases in our families and Sharon Palmer, R.D.N., editor of En- vironmental Nutrition. community. Detroit Vegan Soul was Their mission is to help peo- Earthworks, Keep Growing Detroit Detroit Vegan Soul (WEST) is born out of their desire to make good, ple live healthier lives by providing and D Town farms that provide sea- located at 19614 Grand River Ave in healthy food accessible to everyone. great-tasting, high-quality, nutritious sonal organic produce and they give the Grandmont/Rosedale neighbor- They started on their journey in Feb- vegan food that appeals to everyone, them their food waste for compost- hood. (313) 766-5728. Contact Detroit ruary of 2012 with a meal delivery while at the same time doing their ing to help them fertilize their farm. Vegan Soul (EAST) 313.649.2759 or and catering company which served part to support a sustainable earth. At Detroit Vegan Soul, you visit: DetroitVeganSoul.com, Face- the greater Downtown Detroit area. Erika and Kirsten partner with local can enjoy your favorite comfort book.com/detroitvegansoul, Twitter. The response was overwhelming! food providers such as The Brinery, foods with confidence that the in- com/detvegansoul.

Historic Detroit Golf Club Hosts 2017 MICSA’s Showdown in Motown The 2017 Michigan Inter- tors. The exuberant crowd of par- (4) relays. Detroit Golf Club won club Swimming Association (MIC- ents, friends, club members, coach- the Championship scoring a total SA) swim finals were hosted by the es and swimmers of all ages were of ninety-nine (99) points. To date, Historic Detroit Golf Club on July on the edge of their seats as they ap- Detroit Golf Club has won a total 28-30. MICSA was formed in 1940 plauded, cheered, and coaxed their of fourteen (14) MICSA Champion- as a result of interest in competi- loved ones on to victory. ships, tied only with Lochmoor Club. tive summer swimming by several Participating Clubs includ- Grosse Pointe Yacht Club to date Detroit area clubs. In its 78th year, ed: Lochmoor Club, Country Club has won fifteen (15). The trophy MICSA is the oldest swim associa- of Detroit, Great Oaks Golf Club, given out to the winning coach at tion in the country. Each summer, Oakland Hills Country Club, De- the League Championship Meet is the MICSA swim season concludes troit Yacht Club, Birmingham Ath- still called the Pinkston Trophy, in with a Championship Meet com- letic Club, Gross Ile Golf and Coun- honor of the First DGC Swim Team monly known as “Finals.” The Fi- try Club, Western Golf and Country Coach, Clarence Pinkston. nals meet determines which teams Club, Red Run Golf Club, Dearborn Congratulations to DGC will compete in the upper and lower Country Club, Plum Hollow Coun- Chairs, Leigh Coleman, Sue Lud- divisions the following summer. try Club, Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, wig and Anne Snyder for a success- Over the 3-day weekend, the Edgewood Country Club and the ful Finals. Detroit Golf Club was transformed host team, Detroit Golf Club. 1st- Jack Howe,10, Lochmoor Club, into a world-class professional swim 2nd- Jasir Rahaman,10, Detroit Golf Club, Detroit Golf Club hosted and 3rd- Oliver Lynch, 9 Birmingham Athletic finals extravaganza that accommo- Club, *4th- Stanton Kapla, 9 Lochmoor won the first MICSA Champion- dated over 1,400 swimmers and an Club, *4th-Jaxson M. Douglas,10 Detroit ship in 1940. The meet consisted Golf Club, and 6th - Adyn Stoddard,10 estimated 3,000 to 5,000 specta- Edgewood Country Club. of seventeen (17) events and four

www.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 12 “Unique Women’s Fashion Boutique Opens In Midtown Detroit” Elite Couture Boutique “I am thrilled “I am thrilled to be a part of the resurgence of unofficially opened its doors to be a part of the our great city of Detroit, said Solomon. “There June 1, 2016. The boutique resurgence of our are so many new things happening here and is located at 66 E. Forest in great city of De- being located in Midtown will give Elite Couture the front corner suite, next to troit, said Solomon. the N’Namdi Center for Con- “There are so many that springboard to success we know is temporary Art. Elite Couture new things happen- at hand,” said Solomon. is a women’s fashion bou- ing here and being Leaders, judges, lawyers & doctors alike, as well as tique specializing in quality, located in Midtown hardworking moms, students & senior Citizens. trendy, yet affordable couture will give Elite Cou- Solomon is also President of “The Daughters of clothing ranging from sizes ture that spring- Ruth”, a non-profit organization whose mission is to small–3X. It offers a vast col- board to success we deliver an exceptional experience in the empower- lection of high quality unique know is at hand,” ment of young girls; to provide guidance, motivation, jewelry, clothing, handbags said Solomon. and emotional support while educating, cultivating and accessories. Lakeisha and enhancing the growth of young women and ulti- Owner LaKeisha Solo- opened her “brick mately prepare teens and young adults to make sound mon is a native Detroiter who and mortar” busi- choices by educating and mentoring them. started the boutique years ago. ness in Midtown be- Though securing a building proved challenging, Sol- cause she believes omon pressed on and after several years of an online in Detroit and is a part of the “Detroit Comeback.” presence, she decided it was finally time for a brick Elite Couture Boutique services patrons from all lev- and mortar business. els of the economic spectrum; Detroit city council

www.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 13 FEATURE STORY The Dakota Inn By Juliana Gensheimer ions). Choose the Reuben Soup for (The following is part of a collaborative series of stories written by Detroit’s New- an original start to what will surely comers about Native Detroiters and their be a familiar German meal. businesses, an initiative by Native <> New- Remember when Karl said that comer and Thank You Detroit to uncover De- anyone who comes twice a year is a troiter’s unique stories, their businesses, their regular? Well, that’s not quite true. values and their commitment to the city.) Real regulars are part of The Just The Dakota Inn Rathskeller Right Club, now a group of twenty opened in 1933 and is Detroit’s only men who meet on the first Thursday remaining authentic German bar. of every month in the basement for Don’t think that the customers who biers and bratwurst. The club was visit this family-run beer hall are started by Grandfather Kurz in 1935 all German, though. “Grandma can as a thank you to autoworkers who’d make beef rouladen better than the spend their whole pay check at the Dakota Inn,” restaurant owner Karl hall. Now, when club members walk Kurz said. What The Dakota Inn through the door and ask Karl how does best is put a stein of imported he’s doing, he responds, “Just right.” German beer in your hand, a chick- Karl welcomes everyone with en hat on your head, and a German open arms. Gather a group of friends melody on the piano. Grandma can’t this Friday night for beer and schnit- get you to sing as loudly as Karl can. zel. Just choose wisely, as the sing- Stepping inside the Dakota Inn, miles away.” The friendly waitress- and offer steaks or seafood.”Pop- ing of tone-deaf colleagues could be one is met with dark wood furni- es, dressed in traditional costume, ular menu items include the veal- ringing in your ears for the weekend ture, German hand-painted scenes make everyone feel at home. Choose pork sausage (simmered in beer and to come. The Dakota Inn Rathskeller on the walls, and a healthy dose of a day in the month of October, and lightly browned) and the Switzerland is located at 17324 John R. St, De- taxidermy. The place was built by with a $3 cover charge you can listen Schnitzel (pork cutlet topped with troit Mi. 48203. Call 313-867-9722 Karl’s grandfather, who converted a to one of the three remaining Ger- mushrooms, swiss cheese, and on- for more information. rundown Chinese laundry into a beer man bands of Detroit. hall. He modeled it after the raths- In fact, choose any Thursday, kellers in German, basements in city Friday, or Saturday of the year to belt Accessories by Stephanie halls where dignitaries would go to out German songs as an 80-year-old have a drink after work. Substituting Grinnel piano gets a heavy workout. Elegant and timeless clothing collection, sizes small to 3XL. Chrysler autoworkers for the digni- Make friends with the other tipsy One of a kind jewelry designed by Stephanie. taries, The Dakota Inn got its start customers as everyone sings along to serving up steins of beer and plates nonsense German drinking songs. At of pickled eggs and pigs feet to its least once a night, a leader teaches patrons. everyone German words like Schnik- Today this fairytale beer hall, kelfrisch (silly boy) in a sing-a-long located on John R. between Six called Schnitzelbank. Look out and and Seven Mile Roads, requires you’ll see 50 or so customers wear- 24-hour surveillance for its parking ing chicken hats. They’re sold be- lot. The eighties brought with them- hind the bar and stand out as the one white flight, including Germans who non-authentic German item that Karl moved out to Roseville and then permits, as his sister is the one to sew Sterling Heights. “People from the them. suburbs wouldn’t even cross Eight Speaking of chicken, let’s talk Mile back then,” said Karl. That beer. The hall imports its beer from wasn’t easy for The Dakota Inn, es- Germany, and has spring beers such pecially when it had to say goodbye as Hofbrauhaus Mai-Bock and Hack- to its lunch customers as Chrysler er-Pshorr Mai-Bock ready for the moved out to Auburn Hills. taking. There are always multiple Hand made statement What has kept the beer hall German beers on tap, and come Oc- crystal necklace. alive is Karl’s ability to pivot. When tober a traditional keg tapping kicks regulars moved to the suburbs, Karl off Oktoberfest. responded by making the beer hall a The food is good too, just not as destination for Oktoberfest and other good as the beer. Prepared Bavarian festivals such as Mayfest. “You’re a style, the recipes have been largely Accessories by Stephanie regular customer at The Dakota Inn untouched since The Dakota Inn’s Inside Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital. if you come here twice a year,” Karl start. In respect to authenticity, Karl 6777 W. Maple Rd. | W.Bloomfield, MI 48322 | 248-325-0404 said, “because people come from 30 said, “We don’t change the menu

www.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 14 WE’RE GIVING BACK! 80,000 Backpacks with Supplies donated to Detroit Public Schools SMART BUSINESS PROFILE Internet Station Pumps Up Volume of Women – Only Mao Zedong said it: “Women This year celebrates the one Hold Up Half the Sky!” And that’s year anniversary of the internet en- the sentiment, at least, at motor- trepreneurial debut of Ms. Kinnie’s citywoman.com, show that originally began on a tra- an internet radio ditional AM station in 2015. So far station devoted to some 1,000 listeners have tuned in women. Here, the each week to her new online format. goal is “to be a one Google analytics and web software stop shop for all tallies ratings that gauge how well subject areas with the station’s efforts are received. regards to women; Inspiration for the show stems AUNDREA BRADFORD from health to en- from her childhood memories of trepreneurship to women in her family gathering parenthood to sexuality,” says Robin around her aunt’s kitchen table Kinnie, who owns the station based where all problems were solved. “If Robin Kinnie,motorcitywoman.com in Southfield, Michigan alongside there was an issue, you sat down, you voted to the same cause. This sum- in an authentic, undiluted way,” she her husband Mike Kinnie. talked, you cried, you laughed. There mer she launched the Detroit chap- states. Tune into motorcitywoman. The station blends their profes- was no judgment,” she recalls. Those ter of Sound Girls, which offers com and see if you can find your sional backgrounds: hers as a radio talks, she believes, helped shape her camps and networking opportunities own voice. personality and communications into womanhood. for girls and women pursuing the professional, his as an audio engi- With that in mind, Kinnie field. “I really want to cultivate the Share your comments, employment neer, into a perfect platform for “am- sought to duplicate that same inti- news and job leads with Detroit next generation of audio engineers Smart Pages. Send an email to info@ plifying the voices of women” – and mate, “kitchen table” atmosphere at from the women’s perspective, but detroitsmartpages.com. Miss Bradford just women. the station’s location. She made sure also create a networking group for writes, edits and proofreads reports for the office suite, which had to be cus- women who are audio engineers,” individuals and businesses. Her work has tomized for radio including sound appeared in EBONY, Black Enterprise, she says. The Atlanta Tribune and The Atlanta boards, microphones and soundproof The end goal of motorcity- Journal Constitution. Contact her at info@ studios, promoted that theme. The woman.com is to “own this space detroitsmartpages.com or 248-635-3101. décor features a comfortable sofa of amplifying the voices of women rather than office chairs, a televi- sion to relax by, a mini-kitchenette for anyone needing a quick snack for themselves or their children and publications for leisure reading. “I didn’t want it to be merely a trans- actional space where people come to pitch a book or an interview and then leave,” she says. Whatever a wom- But that isn’t to the exclusion of an – those with or without children- anyone by any means. Everyone is might need, the space was created free to listen to the streaming broad- for their comfort and ease. casts of sounds from singers like Ali- Aside from the women-cen- cia Keys, India. Aire, CeCe Winans tered internet broadcasts, Motor City or Sara Bareilles between segments Woman offers a host of audio ser- like Marketing Mondays and Ulti- vices including podcast recording, mate Adulting on business and fi- post-production editing, live remote Doing business without advertising is like “winking” nances and other shows that feature broadcasting from events, studio at someone in the dark; You know what you are doing, a host of topics. rental for voiceovers, audiobook However, motorcitywoman. recordings, media sponsorship for but no one else does”. com, says Ms. Kinnie, is a “safe events, initiatives and organizations, - Walter Seward space to have those kind of conver- commercial and social media adver- sations you’d only have with another tising and just about all things audio woman.” Paid time slots and show- to the general public. times are what drives the profits for Keeping with the vision of this business, but that does not mean motorcitywoman.com, Ms. Kinnie Call Smart Marketing Consulting that every idea pitched is aired. All is working to increase the number of the content must either inspire, of female audio engineers working 313-268-3523 motivate, inform or entertain wom- behind the scenes as well. To make en. And, she admits, that she is very their voices heard, she has partnered particular about the messages that with a national nonprofit group de- are broadcasts. www.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 16

SMART HEALTH CHOICES The Key for Healthy Back to School Meals ummer is winding down, and it’s Involving kids in healthy meal more water. A few of my favorite in- fry), wheat pasta and sauce, or spin- time for the kids to head back to planning and preparation is essential. fused waters are watermelon mint, cu- ach pita bread (for veggie pita pizza) school. Including child-friendly What they learn as a child will stay cumber lime, and pineapple mango. are all great options. S herbs in their meals with them for the rest of their lives. Easy meals for busy days Cut up some greens (spin- and incorporating Make after-school snacks count ach, mizuna, escarole, or ro- a few simple prac- Kids will reach for what’s ac- Don’t be afraid to exper- maine) add nuts, vegetables and/or tices into a child’s cessible and available. If soft drinks, iment with ingredients. fruit; voila, a ready to eat dinner is daily routine will chips, and cookies are within easy Plus, offer a variety of served. With a little bit of planning, help to maximize reach, that’s what they’ll eat. Surround tastes and healthy dinner can be on the table faster than their ability to learn them with healthier options. Stock the options for varying taste going through the drive-thru. LATRICIA WRIGHT and empower them pantry and refrigerator with a variety Remember, even with hectic to reach their po- of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and preferences and don’t schedules; make eating dinner togeth- tential. Getting everyone out the door vegetables contain essential nutrients forget to add herbs. er a priority. Consistency is critical, on time, and keeping them on track that are necessary for a child’s health, start small with two meals together a as the fall steam rolls along is an art. growth and development. Having simple meals on busy week, then increase from there. Don’t nights is the best way to avoid the be afraid to experiment with ingredi- Two of my favorite tea beverages for drive-thru. There are several good ents. Plus, offer a variety of tastes and ways to make sure everyone gets healthy options for varying taste pref- kids are Rooibos Mint and Hibiscus something ­healthy and fast to eat. One erences and don’t forget to add herbs. Lemonade. They are full of antioxidants way is to make use of a slow cooker, CONTACT INFO: so dinner is ready when hunger pains Latricia Wright and caffeine-free. call. Additional ways include having 313-757-0993 or email [email protected] There are a few ways to ease back into Health Boosting Beverages easy to prepare ingredients for meals Visit her website at the pressures of the school year, which While watching what your kids on hand: chopped vegetables (for stir www.olive-seed.com/blogs/news might make the whole family happier eat is essential to their academic per- and healthier. formance, watching what they drink Keep breakfast stress-free plays an even bigger role in their over- Have the kids gather their home- all performance. Most of the beverag- work and lay out their clothes the night es available are loaded with additives, before. Freeing up ten minutes in the preservatives, artificial sweeteners and morning means that breakfast can be a variety of questionable ingredients. eaten sitting down rather than in the car Most herbal teas are safe for kids or on the run. Easy, portable breakfast and a healthy alternative for hydration. foods that kids can manage on their Kid-friendly herbal tea beverages of- own include bananas and a low sug- fer complex flavors without the added ar granola like Nature’s Path Pumpkin sugars and colorings found in soda, Flax Plus, fruit bowls with shredded sports drinks and juice boxes. Herbal coconut and cinnamon breakfast bars. teas are decaf and available in organic Breakfast popsicles made with varieties. Just be sure to check with So Delicious Dairy Free Vanilla Coco- your doctor about which types are ap- nut milk, fruit, and herbs are perfect propriate for your kids and their health for mornings that don’t go as planned. needs before introducing any teas. My kid friendly favorites are Lemon Keep in mind, when serving kids tea, Berry-Thyme, Strawberry-Chia, and a more diluted version is appropriate. Banana Kale Breakfast Popsicles. Kid-safe teas are created by steeping Simplify lunch tea for a shorter time or adding more Have the kids prepare their water. lunches. They’ll be more likely to Two of my favorite tea beverages eat what they pack, and it will light- for kids are Rooibos Mint and Hibis- en your load for the morning routine. cus Lemonade. They are full of anti- Designate a shelf or refrigerator area oxidants and caffeine-free. for lunch items. Teach them to make a Don’t forget to include water. It simple sandwich or spinach wrap, and is the most neglected nutrient in our have ready-to-pack foods available: diet but one of the most vital. Adding baby carrots, fruit, treats in smaller fruit to your kid’s water bottle is an packages, and a refillable water bottle. excellent way to get the kids to drink

www.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 17

2017 | PAGE 17 FEATURE ARTICLE Race, Regionalism and Reconciliation: Detroit Planning Fails the Three R’s Peter J. Hammer is a manner, their contents provide hoods at the expense of relatively less Professor of Law and a window into the often invis- Director of the Damon viable and less well-off neighborhoods. J. Keith Center for Civil ible psychology defining the By implication, the already “separate Rights at Wayne State planner’s and the community’s and unequal” geopolitical space of De- University Law School in Detroit, Michigan broader worldview. What does troit is now “planned” to be more sep- this Report teach us? arate and more unequal than the rest of Maps, like a picture, are the region in the future. There are pre- f one were looking from outer worth a thousand words. Al- dictable winners and losers in this sce- space at Southeast Michigan and most every map in the entire nario. The most vulnerable residents of could observe only the presence or 360-page Detroit Future City the City will be subject to triage-driven Iabsence of opportunity, the geopolitical report depicts Detroit as isolat- depravations of resources and services boundaries of Pontiac could be seen ed from the rest of Southeast that would be viewed as entirely unac- from space as an opportunity desert, as Michigan, violating the “R” of ceptable anywhere else in the region. would the geopolitical boundaries of regionalism. These maps un- There are additional reflections Detroit. These opportunity deserts exist questionably accept Detroit’s of the dominant belief system in De- within a rich sea of opportunity that de- separate and unequal status in troit Future City. The words “race” or fines the majority of the region (figure an era of spatial racism as the “racial” appear in only eight scattered one). These are the lessons of the op- “norm” for future political de- places in the lengthy document. The portunity mapping of Jason Reece and cision making. A lesson we Report contains no meaningful discus- Christy Roger from the Kirwan Insti- emphasize when training future sion of race or the historical forces that tute in Opportunity for All: Inequality, lawyers is that “if you can control the produced the extreme segregation of Linked Fate and Social Justice in De- planning efforts fail the test of the Three frame, you can control the outcome.” race and wealth that defines Southeast troit and Michigan (July 2008). If one Rs. The failure is evident in the three The psychology embodied in the domi- Michigan. Rather, Detroit Future City maps the demographics of race over op- documents most critical for defining nant belief system defines the frame for is planning for the future with very little portunity, one finds the near complete Detroit’s future: Detroit Future City: analysis, which then dictates future pol- respect for or understanding of the past. segregation of race, wealth and oppor- 2012 Detroit Strategic Framework Plan icy outcomes. This is not innocent. Eliminating con- tunity in Southeast Michigan, defining (2013), Detroit Blight Removal Task What does it mean to frame the fu- siderations of race not only eliminates the terrains of contemporary spatial rac- Force Report, Every Neighborhood ture of Detroit in isolation of the future history and social context, it eliminates ism in the region (figure 2). has a Future . . . and it Doesn’t Include of the region? Figures One and Two the insights that a more thoughtful con- Race, Regionalism and Blight (2014) and the Detroit Bank- document the extreme segregation of sideration of structural racism would Reconciliation ruptcy Plan of Adjustment that we will race and wealth in Southeast Michigan. provide. The underlying reality of the What does this mean for planning? examine in light Martha E. M. Kopacz’ By focusing on the geopolitical bound- Any effort to effective plan in Detroit expert report “Regarding the Feasibil- aries of Detroit, an area of relatively low The Report contains no mean- must be grounded in the reality of the ity of the City of Detroit Plan of Ad- wealth and opportunity, rather than the ingful discussion of race or the “Three Rs” of race, regionalism and rec- justment” (July 18, 2014). Each one of relatively high wealth and opportunity historical forces that produced onciliation. Expressly considering race these documents can be graded in terms of the entire region, the frame dictates a the extreme segregation of not only ensures that the planning ques- of the Three Rs. policy logic of social triage. Standing race and wealth that defines tion is situated in the proper social and historical context of spatial racism, but The only possible logic is therefore one of triage. In a world where Southeast Michigan. that the significance of structural racism everyone cannot be saved, the weak must be sacrificed for the is not neglected in the analysis. A con- strong. As such, limited resources must be directed to relatively causes of the problems facing the City sideration of regionalism acknowledges well-off neighborhoods at the expense of relatively less viable and and the region are obscured. that the appropriate unit of economic less well-off neighborhoods. The analysis of Blight Removal and policy analysis is not the city of De- Task Force Report is even more dis- troit, or any of the other fractured geo- Detroit future City separate and alone, Detroit has limited appointing on this front. Like Detroit political units that comprise Southeast The Detroit Future City outlines resources and a declining tax base. In Future City, the Blight Removal Task Michigan, but the region itself. Finally, a framework to guide the City’s transi- the frame reinforced by Detroit Future Force Report violates the “R” of re- a consideration of reconciliation estab- tion over the next 50 years, based on the City, there will be no external infusion gionalism, by examining Detroit in iso- lishes the aspirational goal of building a assumption that the City’s population of resources. The only possible logic lation of the region. The Report’s treat- more cohesive community that can heal will continue to decline. Reports like is therefore one of triage. In a world ment of race is even more revealing of historic wounds and lay the foundation Detroit Future City can be approached where everyone cannot be saved, the the blinders guiding dominant belief for a healthier and more prosperous so- as artifacts. These artifacts embody the weak must be sacrificed for the strong. systems and policymaking in Southeast cial and economic future. dominant belief systems of the plan- As such, limited resources must be di- Michigan. Unfortunately, contemporary ners and society that produce it. In this rected to relatively well-off neighbor- Continued on page 19 www.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 18

The story of racism in Southeast More troubling unequal societies warned of in 1968 have Michigan can be most vividly told in the still is the legal sig- become a reality in Southeast Michigan, story of housing. The structural causes nificance of Judge first through the social, economic and po- of blight in Detroit are derivative of a Rhodes’ approval of litical forces producing the reality of spa- history of racism, discrimination, white the “feasibility” of the tial racism and second through the Bank- flight and subsidized suburbanization. City’s Plan of Adjust- ruptcy Plan of Adjustment that ratified its This reality is completely obscured in ment. Michelle An- implications. What does this mean for the the Report. Nowhere, not once, does dersen documents the the Report mention the words “race,” Consciously or growing phenomena “racism,” “discrimination,” “segre- of “The New Minimal unconsciously, gation,” “black,” “white,” or “white Cities,” 123 YALE flight.” There is no mention of “redlin- we are planning for an L. REV. 1118 (2014). ing” or “reverse redlining” in a Report Through the bank- even more segregated examining the collapse of the housing ruptcy process, De- market. Equally shocking, in the entire and unequal future troit has joined their discussion of sweeping tax foreclosures ranks. Minimal cities, in Detroit. The story of racism in all poor by definition, are the new normal foundations of American Democracy and Southeast Michigan can for cities undergo- the promise of the American Dream? be most vividly told in ing bankruptcy and Sadly, no one even asks these receivership. In this questions any more. The truth is that the story of housing. post-bankruptcy pol- “separate” makes it much easier to be “un- The structural causes icy framework, these equal.” We are now defined by a domi- nant social reality in Southeast Michigan to fruition, this money was recommend- cities provide stripped of blight in Detroit are where we no longer even “perceive” racial ed to come, in part, from “exit financing” down, second-class services, consisting and economic inequality and therefore derivative of a history of in bankruptcy through the City’s Plan of almost exclusively of garbage, police and cannot “know” enough to care and act. racism, discrimination, Adjustment. fire protection. Social services and in- As such, policies fundamentally grounded Detroit Future City, the Blight Re- vestments in people in the form of human white flight and subsi- in notions of regional isolation and racial moval Task Force Report and the Bank- development are not part of the minimal neglect are now shaping the future of De- dized suburbanization. ruptcy Plan of Adjustment often function package. troit for what will likely be generations to as a self-referential echo chamber, ob- The substantive contrasts between come. scuring the fundamentals of race, region- Detroit’s Plan of Adjustment and the there is no mention of the word “pover- The aspirational “R” of reconcilia- alism and reconciliation. These docu- prescriptive components of the 1968 ty,” nor any analysis of the implications tion is just as important as the other two. ments define a policy template that will Kerner Commission Report in the wake for the future of the housing market (and Martin Luther King’s vision of a “beloved likely accentuate the city’s separate and of national unrest in the 1960s are tell- blight) or the fact that more than 40% of community” is still a dream deferred. At unequal status. ing. After warning that America was city residents survives on incomes below least in 1968, it was a more commonly Judge Steven Rhode’s commis- “moving toward two societies, one black, the federal poverty level. shared vision. Obtaining the dream will sioned Martha Kopacz as his court-ap- one white – separate and unequal,” the Nevertheless, without understand- take a transformation of hearts as well as pointed expert to assess the feasibility of 1968 Report outlined a program of mas- ing the social context of the people living minds. The Kerner Commission noted: the City’s Plan of Adjustment. The Ko- sive investments in cities to reverse the in the City and without appreciation of “From every American it will require pacz Expert Report’s economic analysis trend. Instead, Judge Rhodes approved the separate and unequal status of the re- new attitudes, new understanding, and, of the property and labor market looks at as “feasible” the City’s Plan of Adjust- gion, the Report confidently asserts what above all, new will.” The Commission Detroit in isolation from the rest of the ment, which essentially ratifies the “sep- the City needs. The Report recommends called for the country to “undertake region, violating the “R” of regionalism. arate and unequal” status of Detroit as spending nearly a billion dollars, not to new initiatives and experiments that can Similarly, missing from the Report is any the country’s latest “minimal city” and invest in people through education, head change the system of failure and frustra- discussion of the “R” of race: the words makes it clear that no new resources will start, job training, transportation or fore- tion that now dominates the ghetto and “race,” “racism,” “discrimination” and be brought to bear to address the needs of closure relief to keep families in their weakens our society.” “segregation” do not appear in the report. its citizens. Poor, mostly minority, chil- homes, but for bulldozers to clear near- No such innovative programs are While the phrase “white paper” appears dren unlucky enough to be born in these ly every abandoned residential property. contained in present planning efforts in twice, the phrase “white flight” does not minimal cities must simply get used to These recommendations are derivative of Detroit. Nevertheless, we know what is appear at all. These are the root causes their second-class status. . a belief system centered on investments necessary to plan a more equitable fu- of Detroit’s current financial crisis and The Kerner Commission lament- in property and not people. The Report ture in Southeast Michigan. The lessons yet they are completely absent from the ed how “discrimination and segrega- shows no meaningful appreciation of are embodied in the Three R’s of race, expert report. Rather than examining the tion” “now threaten the future of every the teaching of structural racism or an regionalism and reconciliation. Sadly, social, historical and economic context of American” and how the “continuing understanding of the causes or remedies these elements are largely absent in the the City’s municipal distress, the Expert polarization of the American communi- of racial inequity. Where will the billion contemporary planning discourse. Con- Report states in an Orwellian manner that ty” will lead to “the destruction of basic dollars come from? While it never came sciously or unconsciously, we are plan- it is simply taking the City “as is.” democratic values.” These separate and www.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 19 EYE ON MEDIA Local Media Shake Ups & Tyler Perry Signs Deal with BET for his hometown of Philly where he which has lost viewership in re- move by station owner Kevin Adell. is now part of the NBC 10 affiliate. cent years. No word yet on whether No other journalist since Fox 2’s Char- CHARLENE MITCHELL-RODGERS OWN will retain current programs lie LeDuff has been so thorough and produced by Tyler Perry. They are factual in uncovering public corrup- TV NEWS REPORTERS GOING WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR smart, successful, resourceful and tion and misuse of taxpayer’s money. RICH. I’m sure everyone will be OK. NATURAL - HOORAY TO THE OPRAH’S NETWORK? HAIR! It has been an interesting end of The 6-9am- “Wake Up with Steve Hood” show is being moved to Fox 2’s Ingrid summer for TV watchers and radio lis- Kelly, WDIV’s MOST INTERESTING TALENT an earlier & shorter time slot, 5-7am. teners. There is never a dull moment Tati Amare and SHUFFLES ON DETROIT RADIO This move takes away one hour from when it comes to the revolving doors WXYZ Action 910AM SUPERSTATION - BOLD Steve Hood’s show. It makes room at Detroit’s TV and Radio stations. On- News reporter Nia MOVES BY ADELL MEDIA for a new host to the 910am roster; the air talent comes and goes. It’s a gypsy Harden look ab- Loyal afternoon drive time lis- controversial Detroit News editorial business and journalistic ethics are of- solutely stunning teners have expressed concern over director Nolen Finley. Now this should ten overlooked in favor of name recog- with their “nat- the sudden “self-imposed hiatus” be interesting, as Finley attracts com- nition and over-the-top drama on talk ural” hairstyles. taken by Karen Dumas, the popular ments from a large and diverse fol- It is usually not host of The Pulse which airs week- lowing in Metro Detroit communities. the styles we’ve days from 4-7pm. She announced Like it or not, this bold move could

that she needed personal time off and affect listenership at traditional sta- seen on women of will return by October or sooner. The tion WJR, and bring more mainstream color who are on station’s designated pitch hitter in listeners to 910am Superstation. air as TV report- Dumas’ absence started out as Den- ers and anchors. ny McClain, former Tigers baseball It is good to great, as well as other 910 show hosts. POPULAR TV REPORTER shows and newscasts alike. see that in 2017 RETURNS TO DETROIT & Change is inevitable. One thing is cer- station man- ANOTHER LEAVES -WXYZ TV tain; it stirs up conversation and that of- agement does ten results in higher (or lower) ratings Welcome back Andrea Isom! She left Detroit’s Fox 2 News a while back no longer insist for broadcast stations. One yet to be that women with determined outcome is the surprising to host a nationally syndicated crime show which folded. When you are as curly or coarse break-up of Tyler Perry Studios and The hair use chem- Oprah Winfrey Network. Stay tuned. talented as Andrea Isom, it doesn’t take long to land another gig. Known ical straighten- ers, wigs and As of this writing, more revisions for her every changing hairstyles and weaves. It’s have been made to fill Dumas’ spot. distinctive voice, WXYZ-TV Ch. 7 TYLER PERRY / OPRAH WINFREY their choice and Former Detroit City Councilwoman, has positioned her as one of its lead SPLITS VILLE OR GOOD I applaud them! BUSINESS DECISION? JoAnn Watson will host weekdays 4-6pm, followed by Detroit Free Press Since its inception, OWN has For sug- Columnist, Rochelle Riley, 6-7pm. The filled several of its prime time slots gestions and listener phone lines are still lighting with shows produced by Tyler Per- comments up. It is too soon to tell how the change ry. These include: The Haves and the please email: [email protected] Have Nots, If Loving You is Wrong, will affect ratings, but it is expected For Better or Worse, and many oth- that the addition of more “Star Pow- er” hosts and award winning journal- ers including Perry’s popular comedy SPECIAL programming. Perry has now signed a ists will position 910am Superstation to be very competitive in the market. reporters on its night newscasts. I t ’ s ADVERTISING Detroit’s loss and Philadelphia’s gain. Other changes at the station that The young, talented and very hand- RATES brands itself as “The Voice of Detroit” some Aaron Baskerville left WXYZ CALL includes the addition of investigative DETROIT journalist Steve Neavling to the team of on-air hosts. His new show, Motor City SMART PAGES Muckraker will air from 11am-12noon NEWSPAPER weekdays. It takes over the last hour of 313-268-3523 $400 Million deal with Via- the 9-12 noon show hosted by Rev. D. com, a major player in the broadcast Alexander Bullock. Another surpris- www.detroitsmartpages.com industry. He will produce 90nhours ing change is in morning drive. Bring- of original programming to BET, ing on Mr. Neavling was a brilliant

www.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 20 URBAN JOURNEYS Detroit as we see it. Detroit as they see it. We want a luxury car. They want a car-line. The For My People Magazine is seeking writers, proof-readers, We want to do a play. printers, photographers, sales people and graphic designers. They want to do a theater season. Our projects on writing and publishing are designed to help you We protest. understand the print media industry from bookstores to publishers, They plan. to writers, to readers and beyond, with you growing step by step. DAVID RAMBEAU We comment and complain. Not a job, an opportunity. Teams still win. They consult and command. We go to rallies with bibles, For information, contact: 1davidrambeau@gmail. com prayers and spirituals. We do rhetoric. They come with guns, clubs They do research. and torches. We underwrite weekend parties. The Saturday Irregulars – We think it’s a picnic. They underwrite elections. Contact info: David Rambeau is a free-lance writer, the an Urban Think-Tank – a choice, They know it’s a war. Am I right about it? long-time producer/host of the television not an option. We meet weekly We come from a church. program, For My People, which airs Sat- from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. They come from a combat We prepare for Saturday night. urday mornings at 6:30 a.m. on WKBD-TV, At E. Jefferson & E. Grand Blvd. They plan for twenty years. Ch. 50. He is also the publisher of the Ur- across from Belle Isle. Free parking. training program. ban Theater Magazine and the facebook. Talk with us. Students, writers, Our ideology is democracy. We want 40 acres and a mule. com site: Concept East Institute on FB For more information access him thinkers, activists and producers are Their ideology is fascism. They want plantations. through youtube.com/projectbaitdet, his welcome. Free parking is available. We want an education. We believe in equality. websites: www.timbooktu.com No dues, no leaders, no galas, They believe in domination. They want a school district. Comments may be sent to: David Rambeau – facebook.com via Messenger no officers, no elections, We want our streets swept. We want to integrate. or [email protected] no celebrities. They want our jobs, property They want to separate. and water. We want one Detroit. Our leaders steal dollar bills. They have two Detroits. Their leaders steal billions. We have two Detroits. Our entrepreneurs want a They say one Detroit. corner store. We want credit. Their entrepreneurs want They have capital. international capitalism. We forgive and forget. We want a millage. They kill and continue. They want a tax subsidy. We want Justice. We want a grocery store. They want prosecution. They want a food chain. We want rehabilitation. We want a role in a show. They want incarceration. They want Hollywood and We get a dime. Broadway. They want the dollar. We buy a house. We want freedom. They build a subdivision. They want control. We have candidates. We steal. They have political parties. They appropriate. Am I right about it? We’re confused. They’re consolidated. We want a seat at the table. We hold conventions. They want to run the entire They own the hotels. process. We accumulate. We have ad hoc meetings. They confiscate. They have cartels. We are us. We want to play on a team. They are them. They have a league. Am I right about it? We want a paycheck. They want a bank. We want a loan. Prove otherwise….. They want a currency.

www.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 21 FEATURE ARTICLES At-Risk Detroit Teens are Turning Their Lives Around Learning How to Run a Business “Turn Around Café” Serves Coffee, Snacks, and a Taste of Gratitude

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee Cynthia Smith, CEO of Assured male and Exec. V.P. Thomas Hardiman, greets employees who work for the var- Family Services selects individuals for Sr., to encourage local businesses to help ious businesses located inside Detroit’s various jobs based on referrals from fund and expand this program. “We’re all Lakeshore Global headquarters in New Child Welfare, Juvenile Justice and the in this together”, said Hardiman. “These Center. The approximately 500 square Wayne County Jail. The young people young people are our future and it is our foot corner space is a one-stop shop for participate in 10 days of intense train- privilege to do all we can to help them busy workers and visitors who want to ing which includes instruction on work move forward in life by removing some grab a beverage and a muffin for break- relationships, team building, communi- of the obstacles that they have encoun- fast or a light snack at lunchtime. It’s cation, hygiene, and timeliness. There tered.” Previous trainees who worked at the Turn-Around Café have been placed quick, easy and has an added bonus; it is KEVIN O’DONNELL AND DRAKE EDWARDS are also sessions about money manage- giving much needed job training oppor- ment, budgeting, and opening a savings in higher paying jobs with benefits based tunities for disadvantaged youth. Kevin graduated from Ferndale account so that they can have their own on their successful completion of this This small operation is a very big High School and Drake is working on bank debit cards. “Many of the young program. Some of the lucrative jobs in- deal for the two young men who current- his G.E.D. It’s a new beginning, and they people we encounter in our program clude labor positions at Detroit’s water ly operate it. 20 year old Kevin O’Don- look forward to having a real job to list on have missed a lot of school because they treatment plant. It is a win-win program nell and 17 year old Drake Edwards have their resumes. “Almost everyone stops in have been pulled back by families that that is working to help employ young both experienced a variety of difficulties here when they are on their way to their want them at home to care for siblings. people and give businesses a chance to in their young lives, but with the support offices in the morning” says Kevin. The job at the café allows each person to give back. of Assured Family Services and Lake- Drake agrees that it gets busy in the contribute ideas and see the outcome of For more information, contact shore Global Corporation, they are now mornings and at lunchtime. “A lot of peo- their ideas” says Smith. Charlene Mitchell-Rodgers, Media Con- entrepreneurs in training. They have jobs ple who work here don’t want to leave Ms. Smith is working closely with sultant at [email protected]. or call and are excited and optimistic about their the building for lunch, so they come to us LGC Founder and CEO Avinash Rach- 248-789-0675. futures. to grab a snack or a bowl of soup”.

PBA Royal Performing Arts and Training School Pageant the Karmanos Cancer Center, Burt’s B. Atterberry in Eastern Market and the Ford Motor is the found- Company. The troupe has also trav- er and own- eled to perform for Chicago, Califor- er of PBA nia, and New York talent agencies and Royal Per- local and national beauty pageants. forming Arts PBA Royal also hosts a 10 week sum- and Training mer camp program that began June School with 17 – August 26, 2017 and expects to two locations expand its locations. in Detroit and Pageant started modeling at the Oak Park. In January of 2015, Pageant age of 12 and started her career as a opened her first PBA Royal Performing model through a local agency that Arts and Training School in Southfield. connected her with agents in Chica- She eventually opened a second loca- go, New York and the city of Detroit. tion in Detroit and then later a third in She has modeled in fashion shows for Royal Oak. The Southfield location has Sears, Macy’s, Kohl’s, JC Penney, since closed and PBA Royal Perform- Fashion Bug and countless others. ing Arts and Training Schools in Detroit She was also a dancer and a dance and Oak Park provide classes in dance, coach for the Southfield Lathrup In 2010, Pageant began her 2014, she continued to learn the mod- acting, modeling, pageantry, music and Falcons, a team she too danced with own beauty pageant system called eling, acting and performing arts busi- television studio training for ages 3 and during her childhood. Pageant soon “Crown Me Royal.” She would go on ness, attain several degrees and held the up. found herself on another path, partic- to host beauty pageants in cities from title of Miss Southfield USA in 2014. PBA Royal partners with local ipating in beauty pageants and work- Flint, Genesee County, Bay City, and community youth programs and per- ing for television and radio stations in Grand Rapids to Oakland, Macomb, The Detroit location is 18121 W. form live throughout the city including Detroit and Washington D.C. Pageant and Wayne counties. After a few at- Chicago and the Oak Park location is the Lomas Brown Foundation and Met- also worked as a political journalist tempts at working to build recognition, 123 S. Main St. For more informa- ro Parks Summer Program, where the during the Obama Administration at Pageant began working as an instruc- tion, please visit www.pbaroyal .com children are taken to the various metro the White House, the Pentagon, and tor for the same agency that taught her or call 248-909-7167. parks. The students have performed for the Capital. everything she knows. From 2011 to www.detroitsmartpages.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 | PAGE 22 Rickman Enterprise Group (REG) is an industry specialist providing customer-specific services to diverse industries in efficient facilities management, decommissioning projects, environmental cleanup and recovery, commercial and industrial painting and finish-out services, warehouse/logistics, and environmental services. The REG team of project managers, field supervisors, field technicians, certified hazardous waste managers, energy assessors and quality and environmental auditors are available 24/7 to assist in recovering, recycling and reshaping your environment. Our best-in-class, safety and quality driven practices make the difference.

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