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Helpful Information

Lower Your Energy Bill

You can lower your energy bill by installing solar panels in your home. Visit this website for details www.warmtraining.org/solar.Click here to see and download a flyer.

Reporting Street Lights - Out

This is a good number to call Public Lighting Department 313-267-8140

FBI Child ID App

Click the link on information on how to protect your child. Download the app for your cell phone http://www.fbi.gov/news/news_blog/how-the-fbi-child-id-app-aided-a-recovery




Low Cost Health Insurance


Click here to download the flyer
·         How to prepare to pay zero for college!
·         What to do if you are already carrying debt with more students to educate!
·         Why the cost of college is not the problem!
·         The Rules of Funding and their significance!

Certified College Planning Specialist, Jeffrey Taylor is widely recognized as a Trusted Advisor in the community.  He has helped many families reduce their cost of college and make it affordable. His planning strategies prove that the cost of college is not the problem and that student loan debt is optional! Attending his seminars has proven to be a must for any parent and student that want to learn how to beat the high cost of college and design a 100% funded college plan. As seen in the Detroit Free Press, the Federal Reserve Bank Money Smart Week, and the Michigan Money Summit with Fox2 Murray Feldman.  
College Funding Resources, LLC – www.tuitionreductionplan.com or Phone 248-230-9668




Organ Donation

Did you know that donating an organ can save someone else's life? If you are interested in learning more about organ donation, please visit http://giftoflifemichigan.org/

There was an event to raise awareness about organ donation, but the event is over. However, this video is still important to watch. http://www.wxyz.com/about-us/as-seen-on/keenan-smith-shares-story-of-his-sons-liver-transplant

THE DETROIT CITY CHARTER

Click here to read the current Detroit City Charter. Find out what laws listed to be enforced.

Click here to see the laws that are "on the books" in the City Of Detroit, to be enforced.


The Proposed 2015-2017 City of Detroit Triennial Budget

The Budget can be seen on the City of Detroit website, Budget Department
http://www.detroitmi.gov/Departments/BudgetDepartment/tabid/75/Default.
City of Detroit Former Emergency Manager Kevin Orr

Information on the City of Detroit Emergency Manager can be found of the City of Detroit website http://www.detroitmi.gov/DepartmentsandAgencies/EmergencyManager.aspx


Blue Cross Blue Shield Offers Health Insurance 

Blue Cross Blue Shield is offering health insurance to adults 19 - 30 years of age. To learn more, please click the link. https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B39dzIpa5Fj8WXB0U25GNmZFVjg/edit?usp=sharing


Do You Need Legal Advice?

Click here to download the flyer below.
Get Wayne County Birth and Death Certificates

Click here to download the flyer below.



Be Aware Of Tax Scams - Report From The IRS

Because paying taxes just isn’t fun enough, fraudsters spend extra time during tax season trying to steal your hard-earned money. This year’s top scams from all the five-star boiler rooms, according to the IRS:
•Identity theft. Con artists just love to get your Social Security number and other key bits of personal information so they can fill out a bogus tax return and collect your refund. The IRS has a special section on IRS.gov dedicated to identity theft issues, including YouTube videos and tips for taxpayers.
•Phone scams. Callers pretend to be the IRS, hoping to get information from you. After threatening victims with jail time or a driver’s license revocation, they hang up. Moments later, other scammers call back pretending to be from the local police or DMV. If you know you owe taxes (or think you do), call 1-800-829-1040 and talk to an IRS employee. If you’re pretty sure you don’t owe taxes, call and report the incident to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at 1-800-366-4484.
•False promises of inflated refunds. Honest preparers don’t make wild claims and have a tax preparer identification number. Beware: You’re legally responsible for your return, even if you don’t prepare it.
•Offshore tax shelter scams. The IRS has collected billions of dollars from people who thought they were hiding money offshore, and they’re getting better at it. It’s not worth the risk.
•Fake charities. When disaster strikes, you’re likely to get call from charities asking for help. Always investigate before you donate. Unfortunately, they might not only take your money, but get you in trouble with the IRS as well. .IRS.gov has a search feature, Exempt Organizations Select Check, which allows people to find legitimate, qualified charities to which donations may be tax-deductible.
•Frivolous arguments. You may believe that paying taxes is an unconstitutional infringement on your liberty, but good luck finding a court in the land that will agree with you. The IRS certainly won’t. You could be reliable for penalties for filing an inaccurate return, a civil fraud penalty, an erroneous refund claim penalty, or a failure to file penalty. Want to argue the law? It’s such a dumb argument that the Tax Court may also impose a penalty against taxpayers who make frivolous arguments in court.
Naturally, claiming you have no income when you do, claiming fictional dependents or using abusive tax shelters will get you in trouble, too. Go to www.irs.gov for the full list.



Michigan Child Protection Registry

Are your children safe while online? Michigan families, especially minors, are becoming inundated with advertisements from alcohol, tobacco, pornography and gambling marketers through different internet and cell phone inboxes. Texting their advertisements is the newest marketing effort that many of these companies are using. Thankfully, the State of Michigan offers a free program to stop adult advertisements from reaching e-mails, mobile phones (text messaging ads) and instant messenger IDs. The Michigan Child Protection Registry, like the federal Do Not Call List, is a free do-not-contact service for Michigan’s families and can be located at www.ProtectMIChild.com.

You can sign your entire family up for the registry and inform your friends and colleagues about how they can protect children and families from unwanted adult advertising. To sign up only takes seconds. Just go to www.ProtectMIChild.com and keep your family safe.


www.protectMIchild.com
Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Michigan Child Protection Registry?
The Michigan Child Protection Registry was created by the Michigan State Legislature in 2004 as a do-not-contact service for Michigan families. The Michigan Child Protection Registry is a free, state administered program that allows Michigan’s families to protect their households from adult-oriented messages.

2. What addresses are eligible for registration?
You can register e-mail addresses, mobile phone numbers (SMS), instant messenger IDs, and fax numbers.

3. What types of adult-oriented messages are my addresses protected from?
Family’s sign up their addresses are protected from messages that advertise pornography, tobacco, illegal drugs, alcohol, and gambling. The newest effort for these types of companies is to text their ads to any cell phone numbers they can find.

4. Does the registry only protect children?
No. The Michigan Child Protection Registry can include:
- Family addresses (both adults and children)
- Addresses in a household where a child is present
- School domains (students and educators)

5. How much does it cost to sign up my addresses?
This is a free program offered to residents by the State of Michigan.

6. How do I sign up my addresses?
Registering your addresses is quick and easy. Go to www.protectmichild.com, click “Protect Your Household Addresses”, and follow the steps to register your household addresses.

7. How can I send my friends information on how to register?
To send your friends, family, co-workers and neighbor’s information on how to register, simply send them a “refer a friend” e-mail after you register, and an automatic message on the Registry will be sent to their inbox.

8. How often do I need to renew the registration of my addresses?
Registrations last for three years with the option to renew at any time. You will receive a notification e-mail reminding you that the three year time period has expired.

9. Are my addresses safe?
Senders of messages are NEVER given registered addresses. Marketers and companies are required to submit their solicitation lists to the state, where all registered addresses are then removed and returned to the sender.

 10. What if I receive an adult message after I sign up my addresses?
If you are contacted with a message to a registered address, you should submit the report to the Division of Consumer Protection. The process is easy and allows you to help the state investigate those companies who are not complying with Michigan’s Child Protection Registry Laws.

11. Which state office administrates the Michigan Child Protection Registry?
The Michigan Child Protection Registry is administered by the Michigan Secretary of State and enforced by the State Attorney General’s Office.

Marketers pay a fee of .007 cents for each address they scrub to the state registry. Funds generated by the program are set aside to fund the Secretary of State’s Office in the maintenance, promotion and upkeep for the program.

The flyer with the frequently asked questions can be downloaded HERE.


Accomplishments And Goals From Senator Vigil Smith

Senator Virgil Smith left a copy of his accomplishments for 2013 and his goals for 2014 at a recent Bagley Community meeting. Click here to read the letter about blight law passed and scrap metal theft legislation.

HandyMan

A Bagley Community resident says Tony Sewell (313) 918-4423 is reasonably priced and thorough. He did work for others on Stoepel & Santa Rosa.


Research Study Of The Bagley Community

Mr. Jackson Christopher Barlett spoke to Bagley residents at the Bagley Community meeting on May 17th. He is a student at Northwestern University in Illinois working on his doctorate in African American Studies at Northwestern University. A former resident of Detroit (2006-2011)  he is in Detroit on a fellowship to conduct preliminary dissertation research - Future City, Future Citizen. Please click here to download the flyer and learn more.

Do You Or Your Group Need A Place To Meet?

The Sherwood Forest Library has meeting space for free, just call and reserve

The Hubert Branch Library has meeting space for free, just call and reserve (313) 481-1750  
12929 W. McNichols Detroit, MI 48235 http://www.detroitpubliclibrary.org/branch/hubbard

Health and Wellness Services


Click here to download the flyer



Dangerous, Vicious and Nuisance Dogs

To report a dangerous dog. Call 313-224-6356  8 am -3:30 pm Monday - Friday. Call 911 to report dangerous dogs at any other time. If neighbors can find a safe way to confine a dangerous dog until it can be picked up, good results are accomplished more rapidly.  To report stray, vicious or nuisance dogs call Animal Control with the animal’s location. To adopt an animal or to obtain more information call Animal Control.

Adopt-A-Park

If you are interested in adopting a park in Detroit  please contact  (313) 224-1258 Adopting a park will allow for it to be cleaned, grass cut, adults and children will be able to gather and play.

See the City of Detroit website, City Council page to download the Adopt -A-Park application
http://www.detroitmi.gov/DepartmentsandAgencies/GeneralServices/Adopt-A-Park.aspx

Doing Something in Detroit?

Get Your Lawn Mowed
Yard Men Landscape Company . Complete Yard Work and snowplowing service. Ronnie Broadnax  Address - P.O. Box 32361 Detroit, MI 48232 (313) 220 -6644

Learn About The FBI

The FBI is involved with relations. the Citizen's Academy is a 6 -8 week program so people can see what the FBI does. The Junior Special Agent Program is a 6-8 week program where FBI agents go into schools to show students crime prevention, anti-bullying, and gun safety. Students "graduate" and become youth ambassadors. Community Relations Training (CREST - for adults only) is an 8 hour training program. The training is centered around whatever topic the citizens are interested in asking/learning about. Bagley Community Residents who are interested may call the Bagley Community Hotline at (313) 927-2674.

The FBI headquarters is 477 Michigan Avenue, The McNamara Building, downtown Detroit.
The FBI website explains the community outrech programs

Motorists can file claims for vehicle damage resulting from potholes, 
but restrictions apply

Fast Facts:
- MDOT has a claims process for motorists whose vehicles are damaged by hitting a pothole on a state trunkline.
- Few claims are eligible for payment because potholes develop quickly.
- A claim form and instructions are available on the MDOT website at:
 The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has a claims process for motorists whose vehicles have been damaged by hitting a pothole on a state trunkline, but certain conditions apply.
            First, the pothole must be located on a state trunkline. A state trunkline is a highway with an M, I or US prefix, like M-1, I-75 and US-131. MDOT only has jurisdiction over state trunklines. Other roads are under the jurisdiction of counties, cities or villages.
            Additionally, to prove a highway defect claim, state law requires a motorist to show that the road agency failed to maintain the highway in reasonable repair. The motorist must show that MDOT knew of the condition and had an opportunity to repair it, or that the condition existed for more than 30 days. Few claims are eligible for payment because potholes develop quickly.
            A claim form and instructions are available on the MDOT website at: http://www.michigan.gov/mdot/0,4616,7-151-9615_30883-93194--,00.html.
            Claims for less than $1,000 must be submitted to the MDOT regional office or transportation service center (TSC) that covers the county where the incident occurred. MDOT regional offices and TSCs can be located on the MDOT website at: http://www.michigan.gov/mdot/0,4616,7-151-9623-36042--,00.html.
            If a claim is for $1,000 or more, it must be filed with the Michigan Court of Claims in Lansing. Contact information for the court is available on the pothole claims page on the MDOT website.

Low-Income Residents Can Get FREE Phone and Minutes

Low-income Michigan residents are eligible for a program that provides a free cell phone and 200 freeireless minutes a month through Assurance Wireless.  The program is available to more than 835,600 eligible low-income households throughout Michigan, Assurance Wireless officials said.  Assurance Wireless is one of Sprint's prepaid brands.

People eligible for the program include those eligible for or receiving Medicaid, food stamps, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA or Section 8), Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) or the National School Lunch Program's Free Lunch Program.  Residents may also qualify based on household income.
Assurance Wireless provides consumers with free voicemail, call waiting, caller ID, and access to 911 in case of emergency.  Beyond the free 200 minutes, customers can pay for additional 10-cent per minute domestic calling, international calling, 15-cent text, e-mail or instant messages and more.
Assurance is supported by the Lifeline Assistance Program, part of the Low Income Program of the federal Universal Service Fund (USF), designed to make phone service available to low-income customers. To learn more about Assurance, including eligibility requirements, call 1 (888) 898-4888 or visit www.assurancewireless.com.





If you are in need of gutter and porch repair Tommy Carstarphen does good work according to a resident in the Bagley Community. His number is (313) 213-0443.

Jason Bradford does roofing and home repairs.  He can be contacted at 313-784-8476. He does good work according to a resident in the Bagley Community.

Plumber Fred (313)836-3967  
doublo3@yahoo.com




Holiday Safety Tips

Click here for a list of holiday Safety Tips


Be Careful Using Fireworks


National Council on Fireworks Safety Safety Tips...
  • Use fireworks outdoors only.
  • Obey local laws. If fireworks are not legal where you live, do not use them.
  • Always have water handy. (A hose or bucket)
  • Only use fireworks as intended. Don't try to alter them or combine them.
  • Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
  • Use common sense. Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter and the shooter should wear safety glasses.
  • Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a "designated shooter."
  • Only persons over the age of 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type.
  • Do not ever use homemade fireworks of illegal explosives: They can kill you! Report illegal explosives to the fire or police department in your community.
The National Council on Fireworks Safety invites you to celebrate our nation's heritage on the Fourth of July, but celebrate safely. For more information, visit http://www.fireworksafety.com/ 

Street Lights That Are Out

This email address Lightsout@detroitmi.gov  has been set up for people to use to reports lights that are out in their neighborhood. http://www.detroitmi.gov/Departments/PublicLighting/tabid/143/Default.aspx

Please click on the links to download City of Detroit Phone numbers


As City of Detroit employees move around, department telephone numbers change. https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B39dzIpa5Fj8LWhZVVlYam1sbDg/edit?usp=sharing

Water Department - Maintenance and Construction (313) 267-7401
Telecommunications - can answer questions (313) 267-1220



Changes With Detroit Police Department Police Stations

Central District is now the 3rd Precinct (was the 1st Precinct for a month).


The downtown area (south of Mack) is the 1st Precinct/Central Business District.


The Boston-Edison area (west of Woodward) will move to the 10th Precinct.


The 5th and 9th Precincts are currently sharing the same building on Gratiot. (Formerly Eastern District)


A website for teenagers: http://www.metrodetroitteen.com/   

The intent of this website is to provide teens, ages 13-19, with information about adolescent resources and events throughout the Metro Detroit area. We are a locally-owned, independent, reader supported -- online teen resource directory that appreciates your support.


What you can do about unwanted handbills

If you do not want handbills dropped at your door, there is a law (Sec. 3-2-5) prohibiting them at posted residential premises:

No person shall distribute, or cause to be distributed, any advertising material to any residential premises upon which is posted a notice that states "No Trespassing", "No Handbills", "Post No Bills" or any similar language. Such a notice shall be posted in a conspicuous place near the front entrance of the residence. (Code 1964, § 3-1-1; Ord. No. 28-99, § 1, 8-4-99) Secs. 3-2-6--3-2-10. Reserved.
If you put a notice on your door and companies violate it you can call Sgt. Shirley Bledsoe at the 12th Precinct at (313) 596-1221. If you notice a buildup of handbills at any vacant home in our neighborhood, please pick them up and throw them out. Thank you!

Building Community, One Hour at a Time

“For every hour you spend doing something for someone in your community, you earn one hour. Then you have an hour to spend on having someone do something for you. It’s that simple. Yet it also has profound effects. TimeBanks change neighborhoods and whole communities. TimeBanking is a social change movement in 22 countries and six continents.” TimeBanks USA

Interested? See http://www.mitimebanks.org/


SBA and Small Business Majority will continue to host free Affordable Care Act 101 webinars so small business owners can learn the basics of the Affordable Care Act and how they can enroll in health insurance marketplaces. Join us every Thursday at 2 PM.
What the New Healthcare Law Means for Your Small Business
Thursday October 23rd

Thursday October 30th

Clothes Dryers in Homes Cause House Fires

 Avoid a fire in your clothes dryer by doing:

1.    Clean the lint screen before every load
2.    Clean behind the dryer where lint builds up
3.    Check and clean exhaust vents once a year
4.    Remove back of dryer and vacuum every 2 years

Do You Want To Find Out Who Owns Property?
Do you want to find out who owns property in your neighborhood? Click on this link at the City of Detroit website. Click the button to type in your address
https://is.bsasoftware.com/bsa.is/TaxServices/ServiceTaxSearch.aspx?i=3&appid=1&unit=155



Do You Want To Find Out When Your Bulk Pick-Up/Trash Day?
 
 Do You Want To Find Out When Your Bulk Pick-Up/Trash Day? Click on this link at the City of Detroit website. Click the button to type in your address

 http://www.detroitmi.gov/Departments/DepartmentofPublicWorks/tabid/82/Default.aspx

YOU CAN GET HELP PAYING YOUR PROPERTY TAX

This is a program being offered through Wayne County. Fill out the application. You can receive up to $30,000. https://www.stepforwardmichigan.org/   Call  (866) 946-7432
Unpaid property taxes can result in your losing your home. The Wayne County Treasurer understands the difficulties many people are facing. If you have fallen behind on your property taxes and wish to make a payment arrangement, please call 313-224-5990 and ask for assistance.

What YOU Are RESPONSIBLE For


Dear Resident, Property Owner or Renter: Occupants of a dwelling unit are responsible for keeping the dwelling unit or premises in a clean, habitable, sanitary, and safe condition following city code. Within a reasonable amount of time, please attend to following item(s).

-Grass height exceeds 8”

-Right of way not cleared

-Yard waste must be in paper bags

-Trash cans can’t be out before 6PM,before pickup day

- Trash cans in by 9PM on pickup day

- Bulk trash not to exceed one cubic yard

- Street drains cleared of debris

- Alley cleaned and maintained

- Unlicensed or inoperable vehicle on property street

- Pet waste not removed

- Accumulated debris attracts rodents

- Habitually barking dog

- Car/house alarm sounding for more than one hour

- Grilling within 10 feet of structure is fire hazard

- Basketball hoop in the street

- Rental & vacant property must be registered with the City
The number to report violations: 313-224-4636.  Failure to comply will result in an issuance of a Blight Violation Notice and fines/fees ranging from $100-$10,000 per violation plus State Justice Assessment, a City administrative fee and the cost incurred by the City of Detroit for abatement. Blight Violation Notices will be heard at the City of Detroit Department of Administrative Hearings, Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, 2 Woodward Avenue, Ste 1004.

Free Summer Meals Program for Children in Low Income Areas
Free summer meals (breakfast, lunch, or snacks) will be served to children in low-income areas at sites such as neighborhood parks, libraries, schools, places of worship, mobile buses, and recreation centers.

To find free summer meals near you, call the toll-free National Hunger Hotline at 1-866-3-HUNGRY or visit www.whyhunger.org/findfood.   If you work for an organization that serves low-income children, you can learn more about addressing childhood hunger when school is out by watching the Summer Food training videos. Learn more about the summer meals program. You can also get childhood nutrition e-mail updates from the USDA's Food and Nutrition Service.

For Families In Need

 Announcing a new FREE shuttle service to Metro Foodland, the only African American owned grocery store in Michigan.   Wheels for Food Justice sponsored by Uprooting Racism Planting Justice has recruited community partners to provide this free shuttle service to help citizens get to better food choices.  Call and schedule a pick up MONDAYS, TUESDAYS, THURSDAYS and FRIDAYS from 10 am-3 pm.  Call 810-373-5142 or 313-923-7217 or email erpjmlp@gmail.com.  Metro Foodland, 18551 Grand River, Detroit 48223.  Services: deli, bakery, payment center, ATM, EBT, WIC, postage and great customer service. 

Fundraiser Event Extended To For Bagley Residents

Come out and watch the Pistons play at the Palace. Click here to download the flyer



Foreclosure of Homes in Detroit

Are you dealing with foreclosure? Click link for more information www.peoplebeforebanks.org

Stop government foreclosure of our homes. Stop people from being forced out of their homes. Metro Detroit Eviction Defense is a network of homeowners, union members, faith-based activists and community advocates to stop unjust foreclosures and evictions. Contact DetroitEvictionDefense@gmail.com
Contact AJ at (313) 429-5009 Twitter: @EvictDefense. More information at www.peoplebeforebanks.org See "Happenings In Detroit" posting for meetings.

Scrap Metal Bill Passed
 
The theft of scrap metal contributes directly to blight in our city and is not just an urban issue. It affects our suburban and rural communities as well. In recent years, thefts of various types of metal have increased in Michigan and nationwide. This trend involves the theft of copper tubing from construction sites, or copper wiring from telephone or utility lines.  In addition to construction sites and utility facilities, metal products are stolen from schools, churches, cemeteries, parks, farms, automobiles, and abandoned and occupied homes.

Equipping law enforcement with the tools they need to effectively combat the crime of scrap metal theft, while continuing to enforce and strengthen current laws for scrap metal recyclers is the approach I supported when I began working on this issue. Legislation to combat this issue had been introduced in the House and was being negotiated for further passage. I conducted my own research on the issue and began to meet with my colleagues in the House and Senate to formulate a solution. I and my staff met personally with each bill sponsor including Representative (now Senator) Ananich, Representative Muxlow, and Representative Tlaib. Every legislator and their staff were cooperative, except Representative Tlaib who seemed to have an agenda beyond finding solutions to this issue. I offered to work directly with her to create a powerful legislative solution to this issue that we both could agree on, and she declined to cooperate.

I listened to concerns from constituents, law enforcement, and other interested parties regarding this issue. I introduced my own legislation to address an area I felt the house legislation lacked-- dedicated funding for law enforcement to police this issue. In the process of negotiating the passage of the House scrap package Representative Tlaib's bill was removed from the legislation due to her inability to get her Democratic and Republican colleagues to support her. Eventually Mayor Mike Duggan entered discussion on the legislation and I supported his position on this issue.

House Bills 4593 and 4595 were passed and expand the Nonferrous Metal Regulatory Act to regulate the selling of all types of scrap metal. House Bill 4593 was the lead bill and did the following:  A seven-day tag and hold will remain on copper items.  Payments for scrap metal sales will be paid either by mailing a check or electronic transfer of funds on any payment of $25 or more. Dealers cannot pay cash for the following items: catalytic convertors, air conditioners, and copper wire. A picture must be taken of the person selling the scrap metal. Finally, a database to track sales may be created.

I introduced Senate Bill 679 requiring a person removing scrap metal from a property to show documentation of their right to the scrap metal, or they can be arrested.  This bill passed the Senate and is waiting for a vote by the House Regulatory Reform Committee.  I also introduced Senate Bill 785 to create the Scrap Metal Theft Prevention Authority. The Authority would be a non-profit board administered by the State Police to help fight scrap metal theft, funded by a $1 fee to each residential and commercial insurance policy.  The $1 fee would allow for a team of dedicated police officers to fight scrap metal theft. Understanding all sides of an issue and working to pass legislation that gives effective results is how I work to find solutions. Submitted by  Senator Virgil K Smith virgilksmith@gmail.com
Refinanicing Help From Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac For Your Home

Here is some information you can save to your computer and/or print out.


https://www.fanniemae.com/content/announcement/svc1305.pdf

You can also read Curt Guyette's report in this week's Metro Times, and be sure to add your comments: http://metrotimes.com/news/news-hits/news-hits-1.1493699


Home Foreclosure Website


The purpose of www.foreclosuredetroit.org is to help keep people in their homes by providing one centralized location of free, credible information and resources related to the foreclosure process.

The website is a service of The Detroit Office of Foreclosure Prevention and Response, an independent public/private initiative that serves as a centralized clearinghouse.

Updates

Keep Your Baby Safe While S/he is Sleeping  

Here are some helpful tips to keep your baby safe while the baby is sleeping:

http://www.michigan.gov/documents/dhs/DHS_Infant_Safe_Sleep_Brochure_221150_7.pdf


Free Health Clinics 

Here are links to free health clinics, inside of and outside of Detroit.

Inside Detroit - https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B39dzIpa5Fj8MmdRYXZhMW1kTWc/edit?usp=sharing
Outside Detroit - https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B39dzIpa5Fj8ZEJZTGViVkZPOVE/edit?usp=sharing



Bokwa Classes (Children & Adults)

There are Bokwa Classes on Tuesday 6:30 pm Synergy Fitness & Dance 17520 W. 12 Mile Rd., Ste 115, Southfield, MI 48076. For more information call Jaharah Muhamad at (313) 717-5939 https://www.facebook.com/PennyLoveFitness Twitter: @Pennylovefit



Help With Paying Property Taxes And Mortgage

If you have fallen behind in paying your property tax and/or mortgage, look at this grant for help. Click link: https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B39dzIpa5Fj8T05iYng4SlpLUlU/edit?usp=sharing

Detroit Can't Wait

The Detroit Can't Wait website is run by the State of Michigan. It is dealing with Detroit's financial crisis. http://www.michigan.gov/detroitcantwait

City of Detroit Increases Towing Fee for Vehicles

The City‘s Tow Rate Commission has recommended and the Detroit City Council has approved an increase in the rate for recovering vehicles that are towed to the City impound lot or lots operated by Police-authorized towing companies. The increase, from the previous $75 to a new rate of $215,

Non-standard vehicles, such as mobile homes, commercial vehicles and boats, would be subject to additional costs.

A $15 storage fee will be assessed for each 24-hour period any vehicle remains impounded.

Towing rates in the surrounding area range from $185 in Warren and $170 in Ferndale to $155 in Dearborn and $124 in Southfield. Detroit’s $215 rate remains lower than towing rates in many other major U.S. cities.

Taken From City of Detroit News Release May 1, 2013

Grant Writing - Free Money

If anyone in the Bagley Community is interested in grant writing, please let us know by email BagleyCommunityCouncil@Yahoo.com or hotline (313) 927-2674.

The Bagley Community Council was awarded a CAPP grant in 2009, along with 10 other organizations. The ten organizations approved for CAPP grants are the 200 Lakewood Block Club, Bagley Community Council, Central Detroit Christian Community Development Association, Corktown Residents' Council, Detroit Catholic Pastoral Alliance, Historic Boston Edison Association, Land Assembly for Neighborhood Development, Our Neighborhood Engaged, Southwest Detroit Business Association, and the Springdale Woodmere Block Club.This is the second round of the CAPP program, which provides supplemental financial assistance to community-based organizations that are incurring costs due to do-it-yourself vacant property maintenance and security initiatives.. The CAPP program helps stabilize Detroit neighborhoods suffering from increasing numbers of vacant properties and declining vacant property conditions. The Community Legal Resources received dozens of grant applications. The applicant pool was very diverse, representing different kinds of organizations and neighborhoods. Organizations applied for funding for security and maintenance activities including 1) mowing lawns, 2) boarding up properties, 3) cleaning trash from vacant properties, and 4) plowing snow. Several organizations proposed innovative strategies, like using murals to fight blight on abandoned commercial properties and launching a neighborhood Adopt-a-Vacant Property program.The CAPP program is funded by the Kresge Foundation and administered by Community Legal Resources (CLR). CLR is a nonprofit legal services provider and the lead organization on a collaborative project called the Detroit Vacant Property Campaign (DVPC).  The DVPC is an initiative of Detroit Local Initiatives Support Corporation and involves community groups, city residents, faith-based organizations, Community Development Advocates of Detroit, and the University Of Michigan Taubman College Of Architecture and Urban Planning. The purpose of the campaign is to empower Detroit residents to reduce the negative effects of vacant properties and turn vacant properties into neighborhood assets.  For more information, please see www.detroitvacantproperty.org.
The Bagley Community Council can do this again with the help of the Bagley residents. Help us get this started. Getting free money to help us help ourselves is the Way To Go.

Are You on Medicare?

If you are on medicare or know someone who is, read the information below and watch the video. 
Do not let the hospital admit you with the words, "Under Observation."   Insist on "In-Patient" designation.  Otherwise, you will be responsible for the hospital expenses.  It might be wise to inform family members too. 
 
Do you Need A New Refrigerator?

CLEARCorps/Detroit can replace your old, inefficient refrigerator with a brand new Whirlpool Energy Star-rated refrigerator from Lowe’s.  Your fridge must be built before December 2000, you cannot be in Shutoff, and you must meet a maximum income requirement. Info labels on your fridge will not say how old it is.  This program is only for DTE electrical customers. Please click this website link for more details:


 Community Resources

THAW (The Heat And Warmth Fund) – Agency has money for emergency utility assistance at THAW sites.  Clients should call (800)866-8429 and enter their zip code to find the nearest THAW site and availability of assistance


WARM Training Center –  Established in 1981, WARM Training Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Detroit, Michigan. WARM's expertise is in energy efficiency, green building, and sustainability. We provide these services to residents, businesses, local governments, and professionals.

http://www.warmtraining.org/about/  This is designed to make people more aware of energy conservation and consumption, also tips on how to lower utility bills.  The seminar can be held for small groups, clients, larger groups or employees.  Anyone interested should call (313)894-1030
SER Metro – Agency is currently providing training and Green Jobs placement opportunities.  Interested applicants must be at least 18 years of age, a Wayne County resident (identification will be checked), no felony convictions, currently unemployed, and preferably a laid off or displaced auto worker.  A high school diploma or GED is also required.  If interested contact SER Metro at (313)945-5200 extension 221 for more information.      
Wayne County Legal Services/Southwest Solutions – Funds for emergency housing assistance.  Contact (313)964-1975 for more information. 
Salvation Army of Detroit – Agency has funds available for emergency food assistance at two of their locations.  Eligible clients residing in zip codes 48219, 48223 and 48235 must contact (313) 532-1500.  Eligible clients residing in zip codes 48221, 48227 and 48228 must contact (313)835-3736.  (Please note that eligible clients must have a current Michigan State ID that will be used to verify zip code)
COTS – Agency has funds available for emergency housing and utility assistance.  Clients are eligible for re-housing if they are homeless, currently living in a shelter or someplace unsuitable (such as a vehicle or abandoned property).  COTS also has funds available for eviction prevention through rental assistance and can pay up to 3 months in arrearages, and also for individuals who have already been evicted and are currently staying with friends or relatives.  Utility assistance is also available.  Anyone interested should contact COTS at (313)831-3777 extension 403 for further details. 
St. Vincent DePaul – Is assisting with food, clothes and furniture for clients in need.  Please contact them at (313)393-2926, or the resource line at (313)393-3036 for more information.
Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency – Is currently offering energy and financial education classes to assist clients with building credit, managing money, predatory lending practices etc.  They are also offering food vouchers and tax preparation services.  To find out more information and how to qualify for these services, contact Wayne-Metro at (734)284-6999.   


Fighting Blight in Detroit

The Detroit Blight Authority was created by Bill Pulte of Pulte Homes (and CEO of Pulte Capital Partners) to remove blight from the City. The first blight removal was a 10 city block at the corner of St. Aubin and Wilkins Street, near Detroits Eastern Market. The goal is to bring communities alive, block by block. The Detroit Blight Authority is a non-profit organization.  The Authority was unveiled by Mayor Bing and Bill Pulte.

LANSING — Owners of blighted and neglected property who don’t pay their fines in Michigan would face tougher penalties — including potential jail time — under legislation overwhelmingly approved by the state Senate. Lawmakers say the bipartisan bills, which now head to the House, will provide cities with the tools to hold blight offenders accountable and help raise revenue for cities such as Detroit to tear down abandoned buildings.“There are cases where people buy buildings in Detroit and other cities and let them rot,” Republican Sen. Rick Jones of Grand Ledge, who is sponsoring one of the bills, said in a statement. “We need to put teeth into blight laws so that slumlords respond to blight infractions.” Under the bills, which were approved by a 35 to 1 vote, if a person has more than $1,000 unpaid fines on a second blight violation, he or she could face misdemeanor charges punishable by up to 93 days in jail, a fine up to $500, or both. If the owner has three or more blight violations, the penalty is up to a year in jail. Democratic Sen. Virgil Smith of Detroit said most offenders would receive probation, not jail time, but the law will “hold that criminal sanction over somebody’s head.” Smith, who sponsors another bill, said blight is not just an urban issue but also happens in rural areas, such as abandoned farms. People who have outstanding blight violations also would not be able to receive building or zoning permits. Banks and credit unions, however, would be exempt from the bill. Smith said the problem occurs most often when speculators buy “bundles of property at one time…they don’t take care of their property and it gets reverted back to the county treasurer for not paying their property taxes.” “It’s a vicious cycle,” he said.

Stop speeding in your neighborhood

You can stop speeding in your neighborhood by calling (313) 596-1464.


The Neighborhood Link for Bagley Community

The Neighborhood Link for Bagley Community is being updated for your use


You do not need to be a member of a block club to come to the Bagley community meetings every 3rd Saturday of each month at the 12th police precinct 10 am - 12pm. (no meetings in July - August). You *MUST* be a resident of the Bagley community.


There is a Detroit Police mini-station in the Northwest Activity Center. The Northwest Activity Center is located at 18100 McNichols Detroit, Michigan 48235 (313) 578-7501. Click on the link for more information on the Northwest Activities Center https://www.detroitmi.gov/?TabId=1116 There is a movie theater at the center. Events can be held at the center.
The police officer in the mini-station is named officer Womack. he can be reached at (313) 224-4643 Monday thru Friday 9:30 am - 5;30 pm. *PLEASE* ONLY CALL officer Womack for non emergency calls (for example, abandoned vehicles)

Ways To Work - You May Be Eligible

The help in this link depends on your income https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B39dzIpa5Fj8VTRqb3ZaVlFjcE0/edit?usp=sharing

Phone Numbers for the Detroit Police department's 12th precinct:
https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B39dzIpa5Fj8Z2haV29JVF9BWUU/edit


Detroit Public School parents who earned less than $57,000 last year can file their federal and state tax returns online for free. Bring W2s, 1099 Social Security information, direct deposit information, landlord information to get a renter's credit, all other tax information for everybody in the home. Parents can prepare their tax forms at the following locations: Bennett Elementary, Marcus Garvey Academy, Osborn High School, Drew Transition Center, Ludington Magnet Middle School, Cody High School, Priest Elementary-Middle and Detroit International Academy. This is a special service given by United Way for Southeastern Michigan and the Wal-Mart Foundation.

Do You Need A Caterer For Your Events?

Arthur Fay's Corporate and Family catering is located at 19160 Conant Detroit, MI 48234 Phone: (313) 891-9200. Click the link to see the menu.

Creative Impact In Michigan

This is a newsletter about the things going on in Michigan http://news.artservemichigan.org/

Did you know there is money available for home repairs or to start a business?



Mumford High School Alumni Website http://www.mumfordhsdetroitalumni.org/


The Detroit City Council

The Detroit City Council sessions can be seen at 9:45 am on the 13th floor of the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center. On the City Of Detroit Website http://www.detroitmi.gov/CityCouncil/WatchCouncilSessions.aspx


Have You Been Charged The Wrong Price At The Grocery Store?

If you have been charged the wrong price at the grocery store after the item(s) have been scanned at check-out, please read the information below:

The is a Scanner Error Bill Of rights. Our State law requires that the price of most items in stores be displayed by a method that clearly and reasonably conveys the price in the store at the place where the item is located. If you are charged more than the price displayed, the law gives you specific rights.

If an automatic checkout system charges you more than the price displayed for an item, and:

(1) the transaction has been completed; and

(2) you have a receipt indicating the item purchased and the price charge for it,

Then:

You must notify the seller that you were overcharged, within 30 Days of the transaction, either in person or in writing. Within 2 days of receiving your notice, the seller may choose to refund to you the difference between the amount charged and the price displayed, plus “bonus” of 10 times the difference, with a minimum of $1 and a maximum of $5. If the seller refuses to give you both the refund and the bonus, you may bring a lawsuit to recover your actual damages or $250, whichever is greater, plus reasonable attorney fees up to $300.

Additional considerations:

If the price of the items not clearly displayed in the store at the price where the item is located and suffer a loss due to an overcharge, you may bring a lawsuit to receive your actual damage or $250, whichever is greater, plus reasonable attorney fees up to $300.

If you bring a lawsuit and can prove violations of the law occurred on separate occasions, you may recover your actual damage or $250, whichever is greater, for each day on which violation of the law are found.

If you purchase several identical items at once and were overcharged on each, you may collect the bonus only once, but you are entitled to the refund of the difference by each identical item.

If you decide to bring a lawsuit against the seller, you can choose to file a complaint in a Small Claims Court without attorney.

Report a store’s failure to properly display the price of an item by calling Department of Agriculture and Rural Development at 517-655-8202 or writing 940 Venture Lane, Williamston, MI 48895. http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/Home.html
For more information, visit or call: Consumer Protection Division, http://michigan.gov/ag/0,1607,7-164-17334_17362---,00.html  (517) 373-1110 Toll Free: 877-765-8388
 
Michigan Auto Insurance Reform

Senator Virgil Smith and others in Lansing are fighting aggressively against the high car insurance in Michigan. Mr. Smith says "Detroit has the highest average auto insurance rates in the nation.  It is believed that a majority of Detroiters are driving without insurance.  Some residents who do live in Detroit use a false address to obtain more affordable insurance, this weakens Detroit, and will likely void a policy when they need it." Read about it on his blogsite  http://www.virgilksmith.com/vks/blog/article/242

Virgil Smith is on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Virgil-K-Smith/173578452743856

Detroit Residents Save On Prescriptions Drugs

Detroit residents can still save money on their prescriptions with a drug discount card available through the Detroit City Clerk’s office.  The free prescription drug discount cards provide an average savings of 20 percent off the retail price of commonly prescribed drugs at participating pharmacies. The prescription discount card is available to residents through the City of Detroit in collaboration with the National League of Cities in Washington, D.C.
The prescription discount card offers savings on prescription drugs to residents who do not have health insurance or a traditional benefits plan, or who have prescriptions that are not covered by insurance. The card is free to all Detroit
residents, regardless of age, income or existing health insurance.  Detroit residents can get a card from either participating CVS pharmacies in Detroit, the City Clerk’s Office (Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, 2 Woodward Ave. – Suite 200) or the Department of Elections (2978 W. Grand Blvd. For more information, call (313) 224-3261).


Pay your Water Bill by credit card

As an added convenience, the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department is now accepting Visa and MasterCard for bill payments. Customers can pay bills through credit/debit cards at any DWSD service center location.

DWSD also offers customers the opportunity to pay online at dwsd.org 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Customers can review their current billed charges, billing history, and more information online at www.dwsd.org.

New procedures for DWSD beginning March 1, 2013


Property ownership information for all accounts.
Begin printing the customer name on water and sewer bills.
Require deposits for service restoration after an account is terminated for non-payment.
Aggressively take action against illegal usage by disconnecting service at the main.
Utilize collection agency services for all delinquent customers.
Begin credit reporting for all customers.


Taken from City of Detroit 'City Briefs - March 2013'


Real-Time Bus Service

The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) offers real-time bus service available on iPhone, Android, and Twitter through Stop313, which focuses on conveniently meeting the needs of our bus-riding passengers. The creator of Stop 313, local technologist Evol Johnson-Winter, designed the free app to assist customers in targeting bus routes and real-time bus arrivals within DDOT's fixed-route service area. In addition, the Stop 313 app complements DDOT's TextMyBus SMS service, which is available by texting bus-stop locations to 50464 or 313-499-0937. The Stop 313 app is available on Google Play as follows: https://play.google.com/store/search?q=stop313&c=apps

Taken from City of Detroit 'City Briefs - March 2013'

What Do I Do?

This link from the Buildings, Safety Engineering & Environmental Department on the City of Detroit website contains helpful information on what to do.
http://www.detroitmi.gov/DepartmentsandAgencies/BuildingsSafetyEngineeringEnvironmental/HowDoI.aspx

Job Training With Focus Hope

 Focus: HOPE continues to recruit students for a new round of job training courses in Advanced Manufacturing and Information Technology.  Prospective students can contact the Admissions office at 313-494-4300 to learn about job training opportunities, or stop in the office at 1200 Oakman Boulevard.  They also will learn about a new work readiness program called Ready, Set, Go! that provides assistance in math, reading, computer and communication skills, and study skills. 
Help For Your Non-Profit Organization

Does your non profit organization need help?  Click this link Helping Non Profits Make A Difference .

Helpful Info

The director of the Public Lighting Department said the email address Lightsout@detroitmi.gov   has been set up for people to use to reports lights that are out in their neighborhood. http://www.detroitmi.gov/Departments/PublicLighting/tabid/143/Default.aspx



VA Announces Rollout of Secure Veteran Health Identification Cards

WASHINGTON – The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) today announced  the phased roll out of newly designed, more secure Veteran Health Identification Cards. The new cards are distinguished by additional security features and will have a different look and feel. 
In addition to being more secure, the card has been transformed into a Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC).  Similar to a typical health insurance card, the VHIC displays the Veteran’s Member ID, a new unique identifier, as well as a Plan ID, reflecting the Veteran’s enrollment in VA health care. 
“VA is committed to providing high quality health care while ensuring the personal security of Veterans,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki.  “These new identification cards are an important step forward in protecting our nation’s heroes from identity theft and other personal crimes.”
The VHIC is personalized to display the emblem of the Veteran’s branch of service.  It also provides features that make it easier to use, such as the addition of “VA” in Braille to help visually impaired Veterans, and the printing of VA phone numbers and emergency care instructions on the cards.
The card replaces the Veteran Identification Card (VIC), which was introduced in 2004.  As part of a phased rollout, starting this month, the card will only be offered to newly enrolled and other Veterans who have not been issued a VIC.  Then, in early April, VA will begin a three month effort to automatically issue the more secure VHIC to current VIC cardholders.   VA recommends Veterans safeguard their VIC as they would a credit card, and cut up or shred the card once it is replaced.  While not required to receive VA health care, all enrolled Veterans are encouraged to get a VHIC.    
Enrolled Veterans can get more information about the VHIC by visiting their VA medical facility enrollment coordinator or the website www.va.gov/healthbenefits/vhic, calling 1-877-222-VETS (8387) or visiting their local VA health care facility.
Veterans who are not enrolled in the VA health care system can apply for enrollment at any time by visiting www.va.gov/healthbenefits/enroll, Calling 1-877-222-VETS (8387) or visiting their local VA health care facility.










Vacant Homes / High Weeds Contact Numbers

Call these numbers within the Buildings and Safety Department to report the following:
  1. Vacant Homes that are open to trespass  (313) 224-3215. An inspection will be done. Property will be ticketed and fined if necessary.
  2. High Grass and Weeds -  (313) 628-0918
  3. Rented homes which are being neglected (313) 628-2451
If a homeowner is fined and takes no action. S/he receives a court date with the Department of Administrative Hearings. City of Detroit link http://www.detroitmi.gov/Departments/DepartmentofAdministrativeHearings/tabid/78/Default.aspx

What is a Dangerous Building? Click this flyer to read about it. 

Bagley Security Patrol Options for Block Clubs

Residents,

Many of you have approached the Bagley Community Council with your concerns for safety and security of your homes, blocks, neighbors and neighborhood. With that in mind, Bagley Community Council would like to share the following summary for your use with your home or with your block clubs. Each of these companies has presented their skills and services to Bagley members at one of our General Membership Meetings held in 2012.
Unfortunately, Bagley Community Council does not have the funds to provide private security patrols for our 5,000 home community as costs would range between $15K to $25K per year.
Bagley Security Patrol Options

Service Option Summary of Service:

_______________________________________________________________
Detroit Police Department Secondary Police Patrols

313-596-2217 $30 - $50 per hour per officer

8 hour minimum shift

Provide employee IRS forms

Patrol car is $50 per 8 hour patrol

$11,600 x 4 = 46,400 (month)

____________________________________________________________________________
Recon Management Group, LLC (Threat Mgt Services)

248-540-0160 / 1-800-525-3491 $10.00 PER MONTH $10.00 PER CALL FOR 10 MINUTES OF SERVICE ($60 per hour)

___________________________________________________________________________

Dusing Security & Surveillance (DSS)

1-586-779-5002 $30 per month for 40 hour week patrols. Customers receive alarm monitoring, out of town monitoring, exit/entering home monitoring

___________________________________________________________________________

Form Bagley Volunteer Patrol 12 active volunteers to patrol; FREE to residents;

Confirmed City is NOT reimbursing mileage

Registration provides access to radio, training and support

Builds relationship with 12th Precinct police
Also, residents can track crime in their neighborhoods by using Crime Mapping. Register your email at http://www.crimemapping.com.  We recommend you use the address of Bagley School rather than your home address (8100 Curtis Street, Detroit MI, 48221)


The Bagley Community Patrol is running. Would you like to patrol your block? Click this link to get involved. http://bagleycommunity.blogspot.com/2013/09/walk-with-us-patrol-your-block.html





City of Detroit to Step Up Collection Efforts as Most Developers Fail to Repay HUD Loans | LoanSafe

It's easy to "THRIVE" when everyone else is paying for you to do so, try giving life long Detroiters a 10 or 15 year tax break or millions of dollars in subsidies and any Detroit community will THRIVE. You give resources to downtown for the "new" Detroiters while have everyone else pay for it. Then take out loans a fail to pay them leaving real Detroiters to pay for there failed businesses...http://www.loansafe.org/city-of-detroit-to-step-up-collection-efforts-as-most-developers-fail-to-repay-hud-loans
  http://www.loansafe.org/city-of-detroit-to-step-up-collection-efforts-as-most-developers-fail-to-repay-hud-loans
City of Detroit to Step Up Collection Efforts as Most Developers Fail to Repay HUD Loans | LoanSafe:

'via Blog this'

Thinking for Ourselves and Rethinking Work


Thinking for Ourselves
Economic Future
By Shea Howell
Last week President Obama addressed a joint session of Congress to press for the adoption of the American Jobs Act. He called for a combination of tax cuts and targeted spending designed to intervene in the continuing deterioration of our economy. He advocated incentives to businesses to hire veterans and people who have been out of work longer than 6 months. He proposed spending on infrastructure, including rebuilding roads and bridges, repairing schools and hiring teachers, police officers and fire fighters. He argued the proposed $447 billion package could be paid for without adding to the deficit. Many people who support President Obama greeted the speech with joy and relief. 

Paul Krugman of the New York Times who was bitterly disappointed in the last stimulus effort said: 

“First things first: I was favorably surprised by the new Obama jobs plan, which is significantly bolder and better than I expected. It’s not nearly as bold as the plan I’d want in an ideal world. But if it actually became law, it would probably make a significant dent in unemployment.” 

Another commentator noted that this was “an enlivened President Obama…impassioned, indignant, non-professorial.” Others still called the speech “politically dexterous” and were glad it expressed “a fairly unquiet anger at Washington’s—meaning Congress’—failure to act.” 

The Republican leadership, perhaps attentive to the polls that show their approval rating is lower than the President’s, greeted the speech with restraint. By the beginning of the week the opposition had rallied. House Majority Leader Eric Cantor slammed the recommendations on closing loopholes for oil and gas companies and tax breaks for the wealthiest. He called this a “massive tax increase.” Speaker John Boehner claimed the plan lacked “bipartisan spirit” and vowed to break it into several parts. 

I welcomed the speech. We are facing a crisis unlike any since the Great Depression. Here in Michigan we are on the brink of a catastrophe. As a state we account for nearly half of all jobs lost in the country as a whole. Now we have a republican governor and legislature who are tearing apart the basic supports for the most vulnerable among us. 

I applauded when the President said: “What we can’t do -- what I will not do -- is let this economic crisis be used as an excuse to wipe out the basic protections that Americans have counted on for decades. I reject the idea that we need to ask people to choose between their jobs and their safety. I reject the argument that says for the economy to grow, we have to roll back protections that ban hidden fees by credit card companies, or rules that keep our kids from being exposed to mercury, or laws that prevent the health insurance industry from shortchanging patients. I reject the idea that we have to strip away collective bargaining rights to compete in a global economy. “ 

But more important than the fate of this specific proposal is the long term concern that President Obama raised. He said: “Now, the American Jobs Act answers the urgent need to create jobs right away. But we can’t stop there…We have to look beyond the immediate crisis and start building an economy that lasts into the future … 

We now live in a world where technology has made it possible for companies to take their business anywhere. If we want them to start here and stay here and hire here, we have to be able to out-build and out-educate and out-innovate every other country on Earth.” This is the question we all need to urgently address: how do we create an economy that sustains our people, our communities and our planet? What do we think that future should be?






Rethinking Work


We are the children of Martin and Malcolm, 
       Black, brown, red and white, 
Our birthright is to be creators of history, 
Our Right, Our Duty 
       To shake the world with 
       A new dream! 

At this time of mass unemployment and foreclosures, failing banks and failed states, floods, tsunamis, tornadoes, hurricanes and global warming that threatens all life on this planet, I often find myself recalling this poem and wanting to share it. I helped to write it in the spring of 1982, nearly 30 years ago. 

Three of us, one African American, one Polish American and me, were sitting in my car following a National Organization for an American Revolution (NOAR) meeting. We were talking about and planning to participate in the June 12 March for Unilateral Disarmament in New York’s Central Park. Out of the blue one of us (I don’t remember which one) came up with the first line. The other lines then followed as naturally as water from a faucet. Our poem was published on the front page of the broadsheet that NOAR distributed at the Central Park March. A million people, about one out of every 250 Americans, participated. 

Many historians believe it was the numbers and energy of these Americans that inspired Mickhail Gorbachev, the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, to initiate glasnot and perestroika at the 28th Congress of the party in 1986, thus contributing to the collapse of the Soviet Union five years later. 

As T.S.Eliot put it, “History has many cunning passages.” 

I share this poem now because it seems to me that we are at a time on the clock of the world when the children of Martin and Malcolm are beginning to shake the world with a new dream. 

They/We are doing it in cities all over the country by growing our own food and by bringing the neighbor back into the ‘hood to create beloved communities.’ 

We/they are beginning to make a life, not just a living. We are also doing it by Re-imagining and Re-defining Work, so that in the words of Matthew Fox, our Work is “an expression of the spirit at work in the world through us.” 

Over the last weekend in October the Boggs Center, together with over 15 community organizations, is hosting a gathering in Detroit to re-define and re-imagine Work. Individuals and groups from all walks of life will be showcasing and discussing the many ways in which we are being challenged by our “wounded Earth, the one billion unemployed, the billions of despairing young people who see no guarantee of either work or jobs, and the needs of other species around us to, as Fox writes, “shake the world with a new dream of Work.” 


reIMAGINGING Work 
October 28-30. 


Rethinking Work - Taken from posting 'Rethinking Work' 9/19/2011



We should be making more of what we consume.

http://www.detroitmakeithere.com/article/20110901/DM01/110909997 
Nathaniel McClure went to school in New York and launched a successful career in Los Angeles. But for the past two years, it's been metro Detroit that his video game development company has called home.
McClure, 36, left New York after school to pursue work in film and television. Once he got out to Los Angeles, though, he discovered that a childhood love of video games was turning into a new career path.
He began working at Activision Blizzard Inc., a video game publisher in Santa Monica, Calif., in 2001. After leaving in 2007, he formedEpicenter Studios, which he ran until 2010, when he sold it to Floor 84 Studio LLC in North Hollywood, Calif.
Incentives offered by the Michigan Film Officeare what inspired McClure to make the move to Michigan in 2009. He started Farmington Hills-based Scientifically Proven LLC that year.
"Man vs. Wild," based on the Discovery Channel show, was the first game Scientifically Proven produced.
An application for a $400,000 incentive for the "Man vs. Wild" game was initially denied based on the state's argument that the studio did not own all of the intellectual property rights to all of the material in the game. Scientifically Proven sued the state and won in Oakland County Circuit Court, but the state has appealed. (Look for a story in Crain's Detroit Businesslater this month on a proposal in the Michigan Legislature to allow incentives for projects of which all the IP rights are not held by the applicant.)
The studio was recently approved for an incentive of more than $400,000 to produce "Ghost Game." Scientifically Proven wrote the entire storyline for this game and therefore owns all of the intellectual property rights.
McClure said he tries to take different approach to the stories in his games. Instead of involving killing, games like "Real Heroes: Firefighter," which he created while at Epicenter, have the gamer saving lives.
The studio is also working on titles for medical, educational and military markets. Its educational titles will help children track their caloric intake and exercise minutes, while the military titles will train pilots to fly virtual drones.
Last year, McClure and his staff ventured into the realm of film and television production. One project, a low-budget horror movie, is in post-production right now, and McClure said viewers may see it within a few months.
"We wanted to do something and not break the bank up here to really test out" the availability of talent in the local area, McClure said. "It was kind of our first foray to figure some stuff out and it turned out really cool."
McClure shared more of his story in a conversation with Michelle Muñoz.
How did you get the funding to start Scientifically Proven?
It all came from my pocket.
Really?
Absolutely.
How much did it cost?
A good amount. A good amount. That was a huge part of the incentive. ... Typically we are a service industry. We have a product and then we have a royalty percent on that product, depending on how it does. Other than that, our margins are relatively tight. It's, here is a product for $1 million; $990,000 of that is my cost. So it's not a lot of profit.
The goal is to make good products that you can get royalties on. So here is an opportunity where I can come up here, develop these products for my clients, publishers or individual investors, and now have this incentive to either offer my investors or my publishing partners, or I can internalize and take after the project is done and use it to develop new IPs, develop new properties, hire more staff, all that good stuff.
When you look at my family moving, and I bought a house, all that stuff on my private side, it was relatively significant. ... Significant enough that I'd advise anyone to make a good plan and double check it but not significant enough where it's like, "Oh my god, no one can do that." I'm just another jerk just like everybody else. Just put a little knowledge and apply it.
Do you think it's easier out here in a less crowded environment?
It depends on how you look at it, I guess. Is it easier to run a business that has a proven clientele? Absolutely. Because as long as the money is coming in, the cost of living is cheaper up here for my employees, the cost of doing business is significantly cheaper for myself, so in that aspect absolutely, the real estate is cheaper and more available. You have much more options in that aspect, but also on the flip side of that, the talent pool is much smaller for what we do. And I don't have direct access to all my clients that I did in Los Angeles. ... There is the potential to be easier if you have some sort of installed base of clientele. Otherwise, I think it would be very tough to do what I do out of the gate up here.
What kind of people do you not have here that you need to make these games, and do you see more coming?
Just our core skills. Essentially we have producers, which are the managers, more or less ... We have art, which they create all the physical assets that go into the game. ... We have our designers who come up with core concepts, core design principles and ideas on how the game is going to work. Then we have our programmers that build the actual architecture that puts it all together.
When I first moved up here, I brought five guys with me that moved from Los Angeles who are now all full-time Michigan residents and have been for the past year and a half. And the rest are all locals. So I wanted to get a couple core guys because when I first moved up here I brought one guy, and we were like, "Ok, we need to find some veterans here. We can't go all green."
We stumbled a little bit, we found one and we decided there were a couple of guys in L.A. who really liked the opportunity to come up here. It's a better quality of life, better schools, potential to raise family ... so they came up.
For the rest we went to Michigan State, which we have a great relationship with. We actually sponsored their capstone program for the past two years working with all of their students. (University of Michigan), (Center for Creative Studies), Wayne (State University), you name it. There is an incredible feeder system up here between the major universities.
So is there a growing pool of talent?
Absolutely.
Do you think it's fueled by the Michigan Film Office incentives?
Absolutely. ... Just since I've been here in the past two years I've seen probably five or six startups pop up, some that I've had direct interaction with. And it's in large part due to the incentive. Now that the incentive is finally working for me I can go aggressively out there and look for development funds, opportunities with publishing partners and investors to start bringing money in here to grow even more. Unfortunately due to the lawsuit and that nonsense I'm behind in my original plan up here, but now that's finally starting to click and go, I feel much better we'll be able to gain ground quick.
Have you interacted with a lot of people who are thinking about moving away from Michigan and weighing the options?
Pretty much all of my employees. That was in almost every interview. When I originally hired, everybody was (saying), "If you weren't here, I wouldn't live here." Because they want to make games, they want to do what we do and there are very few choices up here. You apply to a couple, and if you don't get them, you have to go. In February, after Gov. Snyder's speech (regarding capping of the incentives at $25 million), that became another possible reality really quick because it kind of just tore the floor out of the incentive. All of our backers, all of our publishing partners, all of our out-of-state investors were like, "Well, the incentive is broke; why do we need to go there anymore?" Let's go to Louisiana or Georgia or North Carolina or something. But, with a lot of blood, sweat and tears, it's finally starting to get back on track.
Why don't you tell me a little about "Ghost Game"? I know it's based in Detroit, but where did the idea come from?
We're huge fans of the ghost-hunting genre. It's funny, we were just talking at lunch about how many believers and non-believers we have in the paranormal here. It's pretty even actually. But there are a lot of cool horror games that have existed over time — "Resident Evil" and all these great horror games — but there's not one that really represents the true ghost-hunting genre like a lot of television shows right now. There have been 20 shows in the last five years on television just about this aspect of it.
It's approached from an arguably scientific perspective of, "Hey, let's really try and debunk and figure this out. Do they exist or not exist?" ... It's not traditional in the fact that you are out there hunting in the form of killing or doing something like that. But there are a lot of investigation elements of it and a great murder-mystery that weaves between the whole thing.
It sounds fun to us. We sat down and ... the guys are brilliant, they come up with new ideas every day for games to make, and we try to match a great idea with what we think is a commercially viable product. It's like what's out there in this space? Alright, that's not a game in this space, but there's a huge following in terms of televisions shows. Three out of four people believe in some sort of paranormal in America. And that essentially generates a huge gap in this space — that wow, we can fulfill that need. And then we start coming up with a couple core ideas and a couple core concepts. And there you go, we get to work. Get some money and get to work.
When you first got started in the video game business, what were some of the games you worked on?
When I joined Activision I was particularly skilled in first-person shooters. So I went on "Return to Castle Wolfenstein" and worked on that for a while. And I got on the early evaluation team for "Call of Duty," the first one, before we ended up buying "Infinity Ward," the developer. Then I did "Call of Duty 1," 1 and a half, 2, 3, 4 and a million side mobile projects. ... It was pretty much "Call of Duty" for about five years straight, (and) "Wolfenstein," "True Crime," "Star Trek." I have a laundry list of them. What kind of games did you play as a kid? What was your favorite?
Oh, you name it. I was a huge Sega nut. Genesis was hands down my favorite. My first console was the Odyssey 2 and the "Pac-man" clones and all that stuff. But "Ghouls 'n Ghosts" was one of my favorite ever, "Mario" of course ... "Alex Kidd," "Wonder Boy," there's laundry lists.
I was never a Genesis kid. I was all Nintendo.
It's weird to see the split. There was a definitive split. My buddy, he was a Nintendo guy so he had (Nintendo Entertainment System), (Super Nintendo Entertainment System), all that, which was perfect. ... He had all his stuff and I had all my stuff.

Bagley Community Council

Please join your Bagley Community Council members as they gather at the corner of McNichols and Woodingham (parking lot area of Grandfathers Place Resturant) to share information regarding
·       clean and safe neighborhoods starting with organizing block clubs
·       organize small teams to go door-to-door to register residents and block clubs
·       organize our citizens patrol with the 12th Police Precinct. Did you know we can text crime alerts directly to the police? Learn how on Saturday!!
·       meet your neighbors, ask questions, get answers or directions and just enjoy an afternoon of fellowship.
Stop by anytime after 1pm at Grandfathers Place (great Saturday buffett) located at the corner of McNichols and Woodingham. 
More information about Neighborhoods Day:  http://www.arisedetroit.org/neighborhoodsday.aspx
Check out the Bagley website/blog for pictures afterwards: http://bagleycommunity.blogspot.com/
Bagley Community Council, Inc.
Voicemail: 313.927.2674
Discussion and Announcements (residents only): http://groups.google.com/group/bagleycommunitycouncil

Looking at change differently

“Reading Grace Lee Boggs
      
helps you glimpse a United States that is better and more beautiful that you thought it was.” - Michael Hardt    
 
“When I first came upon James Boggs's writings three decades ago, it changed my life. Poring over each of the essays collected here by the indefatigable Stephen Ward, I know why he had such an impact. His work was always incisive, clear, dialectical, and genuinely revolutionary. A visionary thinker, Boggs is as relevant now as he ever was.” 
- Robin D. G. Kelley
LIVING FOR CHANGE
Rethinking Schools
By Greg Smith
 
Greg Smith teaches in the Graduate School of Education at Lewis & Clark College.  The following is from his review of TNAR in the current issue of Rethinking Schools
 
For two decades, Boggs has been inviting young people in Detroit to participate in restoration of the city’s social and natural environments. Youth work in urban gardens, paint public murals, help organize arts and health festivals, and learn building skills as they rehab deteriorating or abandoned houses.  Detroit Summer organizers facilitate workshops and intergenerational conversations aimed at deepening participants’ understanding of what rebuilding Detroit will entail and the meaning of their activities for the broader society.
 
Drawing on this experience, Boggs asserts that education provides one of the most important vehicles for shaping the new world she believes we must build.  Her vision of teaching and learning has little to do with what most children encounter in contemporary schools.  She calls for a paradigm shift away from global competition, privatization, and the standardized testing associated with No Child Left Behind and Race to the Top.
 
Boggs’ educational proposals are informed by Dewey’s call for a diminished boundary between classrooms and communities; Gandhi’s recognition that human maturation requires the development of heart, hand, and head; and Freire’s belief that all people have the capacity to become social actors capable of creating more humane and equitable social relations.  Schools she uses to illustrate what she has in mind give young people the opportunity to rehabilitate degraded riparian habitats, restore historic buildings, or use digital media to share their findings about pressing social issues.
 
Imagine what might happen if young people were treated as full-fledged citizens able to make genuine contributions to the welfare of those around them.  For one, children and youth might come to see themselves as people who are valued, competent, and responsible rather than superfluous.  Imagine, too, what our communities could become if the energy and intelligence of the young were directed to the challenges now facing humanity.
 
Since the 1990s, Detroit Summer has sparked a variety of community-based projects that have drawn the attention of writers such as Rebecca Solnit (2007), and filmmakers from the United States and England.  The 2010 U.S. Social Forum chose to meet in Detroit in part because of the way activists there are demonstrating that it is truly possible, to borrow the old Wobbly refrain, “to build the new society within the shell of the old.
 
Community gardens have become widespread as residents have turned abandoned lots into sources of food and pride.  Small locally owned businesses are providing livelihoods in communities abandoned by corporate America.  People are coming together to write and make art, exploring their creative potential and enacting what it means to be human.  Groups have formed to address issues like homelessness, health care, and education, drawing on their own intelligence and energy rather than the state and federal agencies that have become increasingly unable or unwilling to respond to the complex, interconnected problems facing urban populations.
 
None of this means that Detroit is an easy place to live or that the new world Boggs envisions has arrived.  As she describes it, the city is a work in progress, but it is work that serves as a source of inspiration for others experiencing the consequences of a neoliberal global economy in which things and profits have become significantly more important than people.
 
Will her vision of locally based activism be enough to create the “great turning” she calls for?  Probably not.  But without work in our homes, neighborhoods, and cities, the deep shift in our relationships with one another and the planet is unlikely to happen.  If humanity is to make the transition to a world where the needs of all people are met while preserving natural systems, change must become part of our blood and bones.  This will only happen when we are participants in this process.  Boggs calls for all of us to contribute whatever we can to the transformation of our understanding and our institutions to bring our species to the next level of evolution.   She believes it is possible if we put our shoulders to the wheel, in the same way she has for nearly a century.

You can read Smith's entire review here.
 
THINKING FOR OURSELVES
Questions of Circumstance
By Shea Howell
 
The rapid-fire attacks on the people of Detroit feels personal. Now Emergency Financial Managers are accompanied by a new scheme, the Educational Achievement System. The city council, mayor and EFM are holding meetings, telling us how much they will cut, close and cancel. 
 
All of this, they say, is forced by circumstance. We have no money. Our population is shrinking. Our schools are not performing. The powers that be have no choice.
 
Yet the financial crisis facing the city and state are a smokescreen for a much deeper political agenda.
 
If we step back from the immediate decisions that seem to pile one on top of the other, three very clear patterns emerge. These patterns have everything to do with political power, not budget short falls or low performing schools.
 
First, there is the assault on voting rights. For more than 70 years, conservative forces have been trying to turn back the expansion of democratic rights.  Since the earliest days of the republic, when voting was restricted to a small group of white, male property owners, the rest of us have been organizing and pushing to expand that right to all of us. Whatever the shortcomings of President Obama, there is no question that his election represented the culmination of these struggles.
 
Now in Michigan, the right to vote is simply being “set aside.” State legislatures with the stroke of a single law have eliminated the bedrock of this electoral system—local elections. Meanwhile, as their redistricting efforts show, the republican dominated state legislature is twisting electoral districts to benefit their own power and to diminish the voice of cities in Lansing and Washington.
 
Second, there is the assault on community control of education. Along with the expansion of voting rights, one of the central accomplishments of the civil rights movement was community control of education. In cities and towns across the nation, prior to the 1960’s, public education was failing our children, forcing them to learn from outdated texts with irrelevant curriculum in wildly under funded schools.
 
The demands for community control resulted in some of our best practices in developing our children. Curriculum began to reflect the communities where people lived. Ideas about culture, conflict, ecology and peace were incorporated into daily studies and new kinds of alternative education emerged. People raised questions about what education is for and what role it should play in a democracy.
 
Now in Michigan, communities are told we cannot control our schools. After decades of cutting funding, resisting meaningful change and imposing rigid, often irrelevant standards, the State Legislature and the Governor are removing schools from the local public domain and placing them into the hands of a Governor appointed super EFM.
 
We are apparently all supposed to accept this because some kind foundations are promising to provide two-year college scholarships to our students if we go along with this plan.
 
Third, there is the assault on labor unions. The state has asserted the power to set aside or renegotiate contracts, conditions of work, pensions and basic protections for health and safety in the name of financial responsibility. Unions are demonized at every opportunity, so we are told that schools are in trouble because of teachers unions, business and government services are in trouble because of greedy workers.
 
Voting rights, community control and labor unions all evolved with contradictions. But with all their limitations, they are the result of struggles by people to make a more perfect union in this land.
 
Today, it is not economic circumstance that is dictating these assaults. It is a desire to consolidate political power in the hands of the few. These circumstances demand that we raise the real questions of what kind of country will we be? What values will we hold? What will democracy look like?

2011 Unsung Hero Recipients


On behalf of University Commons and the 12th Precinct Neighborhood Coalition, we want to congratulate our 2011 "Unsung Heroes".   The Unsung Hero Reception is an annual recognition for all residents, business, and partners who spend many, many hours working to develop and enhance our community.  The 2011 recipients received recognition from the City of Detroit, Wayne County, University Commons and their individual associations.  We thank you for all that you do and we look forward to our 2012 Unsung Heroes Reception.

For 2011 our heroes are…...

Bagley
Ruth Johnson
Karen Palmer

Detroit Golf Club
Nancy Varner

Fitzgerald
Margaret Harris

Greenacres
Maria Dickerson
Karen Hammer

Greenwich Park
Leon Washington

Martin Park
Brad Nichols
Doris Ray

Palmer Woods
Dale Morgan
Barbara Barefield

Pilgrim Village
Ellis Ross
William Ware

Sherwood Forest
Ernest Thompson
Gail & Gordon Rodwan

University District
Holly Clements
Tiffany Alexander

New Prospect
Charlie Primas

Northstar
Clifford Appling
Zeline Richard

Livernois Business Owners
Jamal Ambro - Mike's Fresh Market
Rufus Bartell - Simply Casual
Don Studvent - 1917 American Bistro

People for Palmer Park
Jim Meyers

PLEASE share this with your friends and neighbors!!

Meijer to sign lease for Detroit store

Please share as it looks like new development may actually be coming to our area and soon…..

Meijer to sign lease for Detroit store
12:28 PM, Jun. 27, 2011  | 
BY JOHN GALLAGHER
DETROIT FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER Filed Under
Business
Michigan Business

The grocery superstore chain Meijer is expected to sign a lease by mid-July for a new Detroit store at Woodward and 8 Mile Road, project developers said today.

Ken Till, vice-president of the Southfield-based development firm Redico, told the Detroit Brownfield Redevelopment Authority meeting that Meijer is reviewing the final lease and should be signed in about two weeks. Meijer would be the anchor tenant of the long-planned Gateway Marketplace project.

Long-delayed but finally moving forward, the Gateway project would also feature a Marshalls store as well as a bank branch, a McDonald’s, and several other stores. Till told the authority that Redico is talking to retailers including Old Navy and PetSmart as possible tenants.

The retail project, on the southeast corner of Woodward and 8 Mile, is planned as 362,000 square feet of retail space on 36 acres. Key funding will include a loan from Detroit’s General Retirement System pension fund, as well as a variety of tax credits. Construction could begin later this year.

Contact John Gallagher: 313-222-5173 or gallagher99 @freepress.com



Avenue of passion: Pedestrian scale Livernois strip reloads for the future


Great article about our local retail jewel!!  Here is the link so you can see the pictures: http://www.modeldmedia.com/features/livernois611.aspx.  Have you shopped the Livernois corridor lately??
Avenue of passion: Pedestrian scale Livernois strip reloads for the future
Veronica Grandison | Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Many know Livernois Avenue as the street that harbors hundreds of businesses. But for those old enough to remember, think back to when part of its northern corridor was one of the most popular shopping districts in Detroit.

Between 7 and 8 Mile roads, the commercial district known as the Avenue of Fashion used to be the "go to" place for the best apparel in town. It included a multitude of local businesses including retail shops, art galleries, bookstores, medical offices, hair salons and barbershops.

From the 1950s to the 1970s, the period when the district was thriving financially, tons of patrons could be seen strolling up and down the pavement of the Livernois strip, walking in and out of stores with bags in hand, investing money back into the community. Stores such as B. Siegel Company and historic venues like Baker's Keyboard Lounge were two of the most popular attractions in the area and kept the fashion district on its toes.

Fast-forward to 2011. The Avenue of Fashion is one of many commercial districts in the process of reshaping its image to appeal to a new generation of Detroiters who may not know about the quality shops that populate the area. Yet, unlike many other districts, the Avenue of Fashion has a rally of support that has never left its side -- the local champions of the community.

Reshaping Livernois


The Avenue of Fashion is surrounded by upscale Detroit neighborhoods the University District, Green Acres, Sherwood Forest, and Palmer Woods. The area also consists of two higher educational institutions the University of Detroit Mercy and Marygrove College. The universities and neighborhoods provide support to the local businesses on Livernois in their work with University Commons, a community organization in Northwest Detroit that works to improve the residential and business environment in the area. The organization is comprised of UDM, Marygrove, Northstar Community Development Corporation, Shoppers Coop, local business associations, and local community organizations.

University Commons has also collaborated with the Restore Detroit program, which works with local businesses and residents to improve neighborhood commercial districts. The University Commons Business District is one of the five districts within Detroit that are receiving grants and technical assistance from the city.

The partnership between the city and University Commons has resulted in new facades for 10 businesses through the Façade Improvement Grant, which is a program that offers 50/50 matching grant dollars to eligible property owners.

Kim Tandy, the Executive director and program manager for
University Commons says that the organization is in the process of revitalizing an entire block, which will serve as an example of what the rest of the strip will look like in the next few years.

"We have a great housing stock, there are very strong communities, and those neighborhoods need to have commercial districts that reflect that same type of things," Tandy says.

University Commons is also working with the Urban Land Institute's
Daniel Rose Center for Public Leadership in Land Use to revitalize the area. The purpose of the project is to create a walkable, social corridor that draws residents from the area and citizens from the city to come and want to shop, walk around and visit.

Some of the goals that the organizations have for the Avenue of Fashion include improving the lighting, putting in new sidewalks and trees, providing better parking options, and redoing the signage of businesses to attract more customers. The organizations also plan to incorporate a program with DTE Energy to put solar panels on all the buildings. The beta site is estimated to be finished by the end of the year and, within the next five years, the entire Avenue of Fashion is set to be redesigned.

"We are hoping that through this process, we can help reinvigorate a strategy for 7 mile that can be a model for other commercial areas that we want to see throughout the city," says Olga Stella, Vice President for Business Development at
Detroit Economic Growth Corporation and one of four Rose Center Fellows.

Older Businesses in the area

Lolita Haley, owner of Prime Financial Plus Realty located within the Avenue of Fashion, is one of the many business owners who has seen the commercial district thrive, decline and slowly rise up again. In addition to her real estate company, Haley also owned a beauty and nail salon in the area for many years, and serviced a diverse clientele from regular customers to prominent politicians.
"This whole strip was once a very sought after area and neighborhood to move in," says Haley.

Despite the loss in revenue and businesses, there are many shops within the area that are still successful have maintained a loyal clientele throughout the years.

Since its opening in 1994, Jo's Galley has continued to be a popular art venue and was the first art gallery to open in the Avenue of Fashion. The owner JoAnn Griffin says that the gallery attracts clients from all over the metro area with its unique figurines, graphic art, custom framing, and full line art service.

Terry's Enchanted Garden is a boutique that has been around since 1980, when it started as a small floral shop. Some of the businesses corporate clients include Compuware, MGM Grand Casino and Chrysler.

New Businesses

Right in the mix with older establishments are new businesses adding diversity to the commercial strip.

Times Square Men's Clothing opened in 2010 and has clientele ranging from ages eight to 80. Times Square owner Algernon Bartell is part of a long list of clothing shops along the strip, along with his brother Rufus Bartell, who currently has two stores within the Avenue of Fashion --
Simply Casual and Shoehouse Boulevard.

While clothing boutiques have always been at the heart of the Avenue of Fashion, food is another feature within the strip that is slowly gaining momentum, especially since
1917 American Bistro opened its doors in 2009. The upscale, yet affordable dining establishment has been receiving a ton of buzz for its elegant, intimate environment and European-inspired menu. The restaurant has also had an impact on the district, attracting more people to the area. Tandy says that since American Bistro opened, she has been working with three business owners who are interested in putting restaurants in the area.

Among the restaurants, retail shops and art galleries, there are a ton of beauty salons and barbershops within the area.
Happy to be Nappy is one salon on Livernois that has garnered much attention, and is run by master hair stylist and entrepreneur Ewanda Ferguson. The hair salon attracts clients from all over the world.

"The one thing I like about the Avenue of Fashion is that celebrities or athletes or just regular customers are welcome on this block," said Ferguson. "And even though people have said you can relocate to the suburbs, I think people still feel comfortable when they come here because it gives them a sense of roots."

The Future

The vibrancy that once swept the streets of the Avenue of Fashion all year round is revived in part during the summer with such events as the annual Jazz on the Ave and the Livernois Walk-a-Thon. Both events encourage citizens to walk the Livernois area and visit the local shops. A parade also takes place annually and for the past few years, it has attracted thousands of people to the Avenue of Fashion.

"You can experience Livernois a little better with community events," says Tandy, who lives in the Sherwood Forest district and grew up in the area.

Tandy as well as other business owners in the area are working towards turning the Avenue of Fashion back into the thriving community it once was.

"I remember what it was and I know what it can be," Tandy says. "And I know it can be fabulous and we are going to make sure that it is going to be."

Veronica Grandison is a recent graduate of the University of Michigan-Dearborn.

FW: [Bagley Community Council] Bagley community council 2011

2011 marks my first year as Bagley Community Council president and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you and the Bagley community for all of your hard work and dedication to making our neighborhoods a better and safer place for all of us to live.  I'd also like to thank the board for their continuing dedication to seeing that the work behind the scenes is carried on in the professional manner that we've come to expect from the residents of Bagley.


We also expect the residents of Bagley to become more actively involved.  There are two ways that you can help to make Bagley a better, safer, more beautiful, and friendlier place to live.  Number One:  you can volunteer.  We have several committees that need your skills and expertise. Number Two: you can give money by becoming a paying member of the Bagley Community Council.  Your financial support not only helps to ensure that the critical work the board is doing continues on, but it also allows us to help children in our community through our scholarship fund.


There are also some things you can do by joining your local Block Club.  Helping your neighbors beautify your block by cutting grass at abandoned houses on vacant lots, removing illegal signs, and supporting local businesses that support us are all good practices for maintaining our community.  We know that the rebuilding of our community is not going to be easy, nor will it be quick.  But this is the work that we do every day to keep control of our community, to make it a welcoming and friendly place for new families interested in purchasing a home here.


As one of the largest community councils in the city I take great pride in representing you at the Detroit City Council meetings and with the mayor's office.  It's only with a concentrated effort on solutions for the problems that we face in the 21st Century that we can hope to come out on the other side better organized, stronger, and with a sense of purpose for the future of all residents of Bagley.


So won't you join us in being a part of that future?  Bagley Community Council meetings are held the third Saturday of each month promptly at 10:00 AM at the 12th Precinct Headquarters on 7 Mile.  There you'll hear from other Block Clubs, residents of Bagley, its board, and our elected officials on the State County and City levels.


Thank you very much,


Lee Gaddies, President, Bagley Community Council, Inc. (As of 2014, former president)

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1917 American Bistro Opens

Hey everyone, PLEASE support this business.  I stopped in last Saturday and had the crab cakes w/ smashed potatoes and the fresh bean medley - deelicious!!!  They are right next to the Black Star Community Bookstore.  The place has a really hip, bistro feel.  I loved it.
 
See you Saturday, Karen
 It's finally here.... a sit down restaurant on Livernois!
 
1917 American Bistro
19416 Livernois
313.863.1917
 
Check it out!!
 
Grand Opening this Saturday, November 21
 
 Ribbon Cutting & Open House 2-6 pm
Festivities throughout the day and evening from 11am-2am
$13.99 Menu Special
 
From a University District resident...
I had the pleasure of dining this evening at the new 1917 American Bistro. The decor is spacious, simple, attractive and clean with warm tones. The menu has a varied selection of appetizers, sandwiches, salads, entrees such as Cajun and blackened catfish or chicken, steak ,shrimp, ribs and chicken Alfred. Our table ordered the crab cakes, Cajun catfish and Cajun chicken with fresh bean medley and wild rice, a build it yourself burger with fries. All items were cooked perfectly, plated nicely, delicious and plentiful. Excellent coffee, a New York style cheesecake with fresh strawberries and raspberries finished off the fine meal. Prices range from 5 to 15 dollars for good food, great service and nice atmosphere.
Take out available.... Sunday Brunch from 10-3 (which we plan to check out this Sunday).
 
 

Recycling Is Here!!!


Recycling is now available in our area!


Drop Off Location: Palmer Park Swimming Pool Parking Lot


When: Third Saturday 8am-12pm


For more information, go to http://recyclehere.net/



What Can I Recycle?

Newspaper
The inserts can be left inside. If it comes in a newspaper, it can be recycled with the newspaper. Some of the things recycled newspapers can be made into are: Newsprint, shoe boxes, cereal boxes, telephone books, tissues, paper towel, and insulation.

Mixed paper
This category includes white and colored paper, envelopes, junk mail, folders, construction paper, and cardstock. Items that CAN NOT be recycled are: tissue paper, receipts, napkins, wrapping paper, and paper towel. For every ton of paper that is recycled, 17 trees are saved from being cut down.

Glossy Paper
This category includes magazines, flyers, and catalogs. Glossy paper differs from other papers because it has a heavy clay coating and must be processed differently.

Books
This category includes bound, hardcover, soft cover, and phone books. Magazines should not be mixed in with books, and should be placed with glossy paper. Rather than recycling your books, many libraries, used book stores, and Salvation Army sites will accept your used books.

Cardboard & Chipboard
This category includes corrugated cardboard boxes, cereal boxes, shoe boxes, Kleenex boxes, and paper grocery bags. We CAN NOT accept chipboard that is dirty with food such as paper plates, donut boxes, etc.

Glass
Glass must be separated into clear, brown, and green. Any other colors, such as blue or red glass, should be put in with the green glass. Labels and tops can be left on the glass, although metal tops can be recycled with the metal. Glass composites such as Plexiglas can not be recycled. Most of the glass we recycle is pulverized and used in road construction.

All Metals
Metals of all different kinds can be sorted together. This includes steel, iron and aluminum cans. Please make sure that your containers are rinsed. Labels do not have to be removed. Crushing cans will help save on space. Aluminum is 100% recyclable, which means none of the material is lost in the recycling process. Every time one aluminum can is recycled, enough energy is saved to power a television for about three hours (compared to mining and manufacturing a new can).

Plastics
Please sort your plastics according to the number found on the bottom of the container. We can accept #1 and #2 plastics together, and #4, #5, #6, and #7 plastics together. Make sure your containers are clean and rinsed; otherwise they will end up in the garbage. Tops should be removed and discarded. Any labels can be left on the container. Plastic is one of the most important items to recycle because it is made from petroleum.

Styrofoam
This category includes carry out boxes, packing materials, and some food containers. We can accept Styrofoam peanuts, but they must be in a separate plastic bag from other Styrofoam. Please make sure that no food scraps are in any containers.

Aseptic
This category includes orange juice, milk, soy milk, and juice box containers. The plastic tops should be removed, and the containers flattened to save space. Please make sure that all containers are rinsed to avoid unwanted odors.

Batteries
We accept household batteries only. This includes AAA through D, 9 volt, and cell phone batteries. Please make sure that they are in a separate bag. We CAN NOT accept car batteries or any other heavy duty industrial batteries.

Plastic Bags
This category includes plastic grocery bags, plastic dry cleaning bags, and newspaper insert bags. We accept # 1, #2, and #4 plastic bags. Check the bottom or side of the bag to find the number. We CAN NOT accept bubble wrap, garbage bags, plastic food bags, and frozen food bags. Please make sure that your bags are clean and dry, and that receipts have been removed.

Computers and Electronics
We accept old computers, CD players, VCRs, and televisions. Computers and electronics in working condition can be donated to Salvation Army. We also accept cell phones and old printer cartridges, but they must be collected separate from computers and electronics.


Detroit Police Crime Advisory

DETROIT POLICE CRIME ADVISORY

*Unknown perpetrators conducting Home Invasions targeting elderly individuals

Method of Operation:

Beware of perpetrators who are targeting elderly individuals that live or are found to be alone in their residence.

The perpetrators talk the elderly individuals into allowing them to enter the home; on a couple of occasions the perpetrators have identified themselves as Police Officers. Once inside the home the perpetrators assault and rob the elderly individual. In one instance we believe the perpetrators may be responsible for a fatal assault of an 88 year old resident.

What to do:

If you live alone or are at home alone and someone whom you do not know comes to your door please do the following:

1. DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR
2. If they are claiming to be Police Officers:
a. Ask to see photo ID (without opening door) ask them where they work, get their badge number.
b. Call the nearest District and confirm identities.
3. Call a neighbor, have them look out from their house and ID the persons as well as any vehicle they may be driving. (Police will almost always be in a vehicle)
4. Call 911 and give a complete description of the individuals as well as any vehicle they may be driving.

District Phone Numbers:
Western District 313-596-1200 (Bagley Community)
Northwest District 313-596-5600
Southwest District 313-596-5300
Eastern District 313-596-5900
Northeast District 313-596-1100
Central District 313-596-1300




Linda Peltier (Vertin)
Commander
Northeastern District
Cell (248) 390-5307
Office (313) 596-1110


Advertisements on Utility Poles - TEAR THEM DOWN!!!

Bagley Residents -

I spoke to Sgt. Bledsoe in the Community Relations Department at the Western District Precinct about an initiative that they will be starting this spring to rid the community of the hideous signs that are mounted on utility poles. If you aren't aware, there is a City ordinance banning such signs. Sgt. Bledsoe said that they have not started the initiative yet, but that she and her officers are willing to work with us to remove the signs. She said that if we see people putting up signs, write down their license plate number. A picture helps too.

Our position is that these signs contribute to blight in our community and they have to be removed. Our CB patrollers regularly remove the signs, as do other community members, yet every day new ones appear. In addition to removing the signs, we have begun calling the phone numbers on the signs and informing people that they are in violation of City of Detroit ordinances. We ask them to remove the signs and offering them an opportunity to advertise in our newsletter.


HERE'S WHAT WE NEED YOU TO DO:
  1. If you see someone putting up signs, write down their license plate number. If you have a camera on your cell phone, take a picture.
  2. Remove any signs you see.
  3. Give us the information. Let us know the name on the sign, phone #, location, and whether or not you removed it or called the person.
  4. Call the business. (You can block your phone number by first dialing *67). Let the person know that we don't approve of them littering our neighborhood with the signs.
Here's a suggested script:
I live in the Bagley Community. The boundaries are Livernois to Wyoming and McNichols to Outer Drive. The signs you have posted on utility poles violate a City ordinance banning such advertisement. They also contribute to blight in our community and we respectfully ask that you remove them. We are working with the Western District Police Precinct to enforce the ordinance and have violators fined. If you would like to advertise legally, feel free to do so in our newsletter that reaches 5000 households each quarter. If you have questions, call us at 313-927-2674. Thank you for your cooperation.

    This is the only way that we can prevent our neighborhood from becoming a dumping ground and littered with garbage!
    PLEASE HELP US!!!
    If you can't remove the signs, then call the number on the sign. If you don't want to call, then pass the information along to us.
    This is a project of our Environmental Committee. If you'd like to be a part of the committee, let us know.
    Karen Palmer
    President, Bagley Community Council, Inc. (Former President - 2014)

    *

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