Make Detroit Public Schools Great Again by Removing State Oversight with a Federal Court Order

By Friends of Cushingberry

     If you were a manager of a business that has over 8 years of losses and you keep going to the banks for more loan money, pretty soon the bank will want their money back. This is common in business to have banks repossess property to recover their assets.  In the case of the Detroit Public Schools and public education, the bank is being managed by people who are not acting in the best interests of the shareholders.

“Burger King Franchises are run better than DPS Emergency Managers from the State of Michigan" - A customer at the Burger King in District 2 on Livernois Ave and Florence Street 48221.

     The recent actions by legislators in Lansing regarding the creation of a debt free district and leaving the old one with a massive debt should inspire children to grow up to be auditors, accountants, lawyers, and Information Technology specialists. DPS math teachers are strongly encouraged to train their children how to use math to insure that justice will prevail when it comes to the legacy investment in our future.

       To allow the dumbing down of our students by hiring un-certified teachers, moving classes to buildings that are inaccessible to the local community, and using only test scores as a measuring standard to move money is detrimental to the learning environment.  Detroit taxpayers have given their hard earned money to consultants, closed buildings, and the wild, west of education in the name of charter schools.  There will be more charter schools than Medical Marijuana Caregiver Centers with NO accountability. There is more regulation on Marijuana related businesses than charter schools. The Detroit Education Commission is necessary and will serve as a watchdog for the people for questionable practices with taxpayer’s money.

       The looting of Detroiters through its school system is deplorable and in some cases prosecute-able by Federal law and it must stop. Make sure you vote in August and November for candidates who are committed to change and defending the children of Detroit from financial Ponzi Schemes that has brought results like the Flint Water Crisis, and the blatant sabotaging of public education by special interests.  The only difference is the head poisoning from Micihgan Department of  Education and the Lead Poison from Michigan Department of Environmental Quality with the same damaging effects.

Before President Obama leaves office, the children of Detroit are asking that organizations like the Security and Exchange Commission and, the FBI investigate where all the money went when Dr. Robert Bobb started his job as the Emergency Manager and, all of his successors. The children are asking where is the Court Order from a Federal Judge suspending the duties of all Emergency Managers in Michigan until a complete and forensic audit of the entire budget of Public Education has been thoroughly reviewed.  If criminal prosecution is warranted, then let it rip on Darnell Early and, anybody else who stole from the children for their own personal gain.

PSA Today: Affordable Care Act Open Enrollment Period starts Now Until Dec 15th 2015.

This is a Public Service Message from Councilmember Pro-Tem George Cushingberry Jr.


From now until December 16, 2015,  you are strongly encouraged to sigh up for health care coverage through the  www.healthcare.gov website.  Don’t believe the crap you hear in the news about  the Act because it works.  If you think we are trying to pull some bull on you, just ask the legendary Bass Master of Detroit and District 2 constituent  Edward “T-Money” Green who recently went to the hospital for a life threatening growth on his leg. From a simple scratch and by being a diabetic, his leg swelled up as big as the size of two footballs. After life saving surgery at Henry Ford Hospital, the bill was entirely covered. He sincerely thanks President Barack Obama for doing the right thing when he said that every American will have health insurance like other nations do for their people.  If you need assistance with enrolling into the plan, please call our office because we have a dedicated staff member, Sheree McLaughlin who is a navigator and has valuable information on how to get assistance in getting health insurance. To make an appointment with her please call our office at 313 224-4535. 

The Future of Cannabis in The Future of Detroit. Where are You?

by Richard C. Clement

In order for true Marijuana Reform in Detroit, the failed policy of the late Harry Anslinger must be put to rest. Marijuana is improperly classified as a Schedule 1 drug with no medical value because people like Mr. Anslinger were paid off by an industry who wanted to use wood for paper instead of a durable product of Industrial Hemp.  Mr. Anslinger was a bigot who hated African Americans so much that he was spreading false and misleading information that Marijuana made White Women desire sex with Black Men, made Black people think they are superior to Whites and, influenced religious leaders to say that Marijuana was created by the Devil.

It is this group think mentality that is the primary driving force behind the current policy that we are following today of incarceration for Marijuana crimes and the arrested development of the numerous potential benefits of using the Cannabis plant.

The following ordinance proposed by Council-member James Tate will remove 90% of all Medical Marijuana businesses from the City of Detroit through the bizarre use of zoning regulations.  If this becomes law, Medical Marijuana Businesses will be subjected to following restrictions in the City of Detroit.

• Be at least 2000 feet away from each other “Controlled Uses Stores”
• Be at least 1000 feet away from a School, Public Park, Church, or Religious Institution
• Located only in Detroit Business Zones B4-B5 and M1-M5

Additionally, all drive through businesses that dispense Medical Marijuana will be eliminated.

This proposed ordinance is contrary to the will of the majority of the citizens who vote and patronize these places of business.  Yet these same patrons can drive up to places like CVS and Walgreens to get some of the most dangerous drugs that cause, heart attacks, suicides, and impotence. The numerous examples of Liquor Stores and Churches that are much closer than 2000 feet from each highlights the glaring contradictions of this proposed ordinance.

The singling out of drive through businesses as a public nuisance is troubling because if a drive through is good for Chase Bank then Pot should not pose any additional problems.  Will this extend to Marijuana Vending Machines in a private place? This proposed ordinance will force some MMJ owners to re-define their businesses as a place of sacramental worship as a religious institution to protect their investment into the re-construction of their property.  The religious argument to rezone Marijuana businesses may be against the tennants Religious Freedom Restoration Act that can be argued in a court of law.

Citizens who support these businesses are strongly urged to contact all of the elected leadership of the City of Detroit to voice your concerns and propose changes.  If the leadership does not listen then you the people have every right to initiate a people driven petition to create a NEW ordinance that will meet the people’s needs.

The real question is how is the City of Detroit and the residents going to benefit from the emerging Marijuana Industry?

• First the proposed ordinance must demand that these businesses remain open and protected from prosecution by law. 
• The Ordinance will create a City Department of Marijuana Management that will manage business needs with a nominal application fee of $1000.
• The Department will be responsible for managing the needs of the business owners with services including but not limited to the following: 
• The hiring and training of Certification Testers to evaluate and grade Marijuana being sold or transferred in the City of Detroit. 
• Providing a directory of Marijuana Businesses providing Faith Based Services and resources to Military Veterans, Retired City and Wayne County Employees with PTSD and other symptoms treatable with Cannabis.
• If some businesses are performing faith based services to clients and customers you may be eligible for a religious exemption as a faith based institution performing services under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

Examples of providing faith based services are:

• Using Cannabis to treat Veterans and Public Servants with PTSD symptoms from serving in Government.
• Examples of (but not limited to) military service, working as a teacher, firefighter, Police Officer, or Civil Service appointee.
• Providing Rick Simpson Oil to Cancer and Autism patients or any condition treatable with cannabis.

If you feel that the propose ordinance does not fit your needs, the people have opportunity to enact a ballot initiative to allow the people to decide on the issue of Marijuana Policy in the City Of Detroit and, its direction in the future of our City.

If you are a patron of any Marijuana Business and, want to see the revenue from Marijuana sales and manufacturing benefit the people. Then we are urging you to do the following:  

1. Supporters of Marijuana must call and have meetings with your City of Detroit Elected Leadership to voice your support or opposition.
2. Propose fair and equitable guidelines for building reuse as not to discriminate or deny opportunities to improve the quality of life through, entrepenuership, apprenticeships and higher education.
3. Be prepared to sign a proposed ordinance to clarify the existence and direction of Manufacturing, Medical and Recreational Marijuana in the City of Detroit.
4. Register to Vote, Sign the MI legalize petition, and actually Vote.

The future of Detroit includes the benefits of using the byproducts of the Cannabis plant. Don’t let others who do not have the best interest of the people in mind determine the Detroit Future. Education grow academies and curriculum policy change in public education will expand the importance to the youth to pay attention in class instead of harassing the teacher and dogging the “guest” teachers. To protect all of the children, some students need to really quit clowning around and get serious in the classroom.  Especially in subjects of Biology, Science, Math,  Hortoculture , Electronics, Solar Panel Engineering, Manufacturing, Algebra, and Technology.  As far as music skills, learning how to play an instrument will carry youth a long way in the educational journey of life. For some it might lead to a nice career and pay your way through school at the same time.

The tactical use of Marijuana will create better quality of life with the creation of jobs in manufacturing of concrete for roads, drywall products for home constructions, create bio-fuel for City vehicles, more money for education, and a revenue stream for Wayne County and the City of Detroit. 

We are one 2016 Presidential Election away from continuing the change or, going back to the failed policies of Harry Ainslinger that creates a thriving system asset forfeiture, incarceration for small amounts of Marijuana, building more jails to create more felons than fellowships, putting Canadian Citizens like Marc Emery back in a US Jail in Mississippi at the same time allowing Irving Rosenfeld to legally use Marijuana in all 50 states that is not grown at Alcorn State University in Lorimar MS but somewhere else, and so on.

Therefore it is imperative that you be a good citizen and peacefully petition our government to change the policy on Cannabis to improve the quality of life for the Citizens of the City of Detroit.

If not, then in 2017 President Chris Christie will open a drive through incarceration facility at the “newly completed” Wayne County Jail for Marijuana, while charging increased user fees at the local drive through, fast food restaurants.

Richard C. Clement – Legislative Aide & Marijuana Policy Consultant

"Free The Weed for the Jobs We Need"

One Year Later: While Everyone Was Watching Ferguson MO - Marc Emery Got Deported for Seeds

by Richard C. Clement

On behalf of the American People,
we apologize for this act terror
inflicted upon
Mr.and Mrs Marc S. Emery
by a few of our Government Officials

August 12th 2014 marks a one year anniversary of the deportation of Canada’s Prince of Pot, Marc Scott Emery via the Detroit Windsor Tunnel.  In complete bondage and while everyone was watching the events in Ferguson Missouri, Mr. Emery a Canadian citizen, was unceremoniously dumped off at the Canadian border by US Marshall's after being flown from a Louisiana holding facility.  Emery served four years in a US Federal Prison for the crime of selling Marijuana seeds to Americans and other International Customers.





(CBC Canada Reports the Return the Marc Scott Emery back to Canada)

Jodie Emery

He was extradited to the United States by the Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper at the request of the US Drug Enforcement Agency for the purposes of stopping the Marijuana Legalization movement.  During his time in Jail many states like Michigan made Marijuana legal or have it in their State Legislatures to be voted on. Industrial Hemp is the law in Michigan so that people can manufacture products from the plant.

Nikes Paid for by American Taxpayers

After further review by US Attorney General Eric Holder, Marc was kicked out of the United States of America like Dolomite from San Antonio TX with a brand new pair of Nikes, $200 dollars, and a damn good meal. He was told he could never return again to USA.  He was flown from Mississippi in chains by Con Air and kicked off the plane in Toledo. He was driven from Toledo to Windsor CA where he was welcomed by a huge crowd of Canadians welcoming him home. 

He was the ultimate example of forgiveness because he spoke very kindly of the American People and said "that there are a few bad apples among a very great people".  Marc Emery is now a felon in the USA and a registered voter in Canada. Mrs. Emery is an up and coming electable Woman in political office. Now and One year later, Canadian Citizens now have to power elect a Prime Minister to  change the direction of their government on October 19th, 2015.   Through a trade agreement with Michigan on Industrial Hemp Products, the loan from Canada to build the Gordie Howe Bridge will be paid off in weeks. We know that Riverside Park in Detroit would be finished long before any bridge goes up and become operational and that is why the City of Detroit went forward with the Moroun family.

Jodie Emery

The current Prime Minister Stephen Harper has engaged in a new Voter suppression method by banning all advertising regarding the national elections. Mr. Harper hates Cannabis with a passion. However and with the power of Social Media, this strategy will fail because there are 3.6 million Canadian Citizens that support the use of Cannabis.  This Voting Block has the opportunity to reshape the Office of the Prime Minister with people who listen to them.  We hope that they show up to elect leaders who are more tolerant toward things creating international jobs with Cannabis Products, instead of shipping dirty oil that does not create jobs.

Marc Emery Speaks on the Importance of Voting 

Good Info for both sides of the border

In 2016 American Citizens will have to pick the next president to succeed President Obama.  We hope that the young people line up and, vote like they stand in line waiting for the newest pair of Nike Shoes.  Electing the wrong person like Chris Christie may get you put in a line for brand new pair of Nikes, just like the ones Marc Emery got for free.

Finally, Marc Scott Emery has earned the right for a Pardon and Complete Clemency from President Barack Obama before he leaves office.  When this is done, Mr. and Mrs. Marc Scott Emery are more than welcome to come back to the USA via Detroit over the Ambassador Bridge and, visit us as a free people.

Transportation Magic on 8 Mile and Woodward creating a new neighborhood in Detroit

by Friends of George Cushingberry Jr.

The Magic Johnson LLC Plus Group Plan for the Fairgrounds (Click Here First, Then Right Click and Rotate Clockwise)

By clicking on this link, you will have a documented plan for the old Michigan State Fairgrounds from the Land Bank Authority.  This presentation will give you the actual 411 for the 157 acre location in Northwest Detroit. I along with the rest of my council members want you to have the actual plan for your records. The Magic Plus LLC group is strongly committed to hiring, training, and educating Detroit residents and like-minded citizens to improve the quality of life in our city. Councilmember Cushingberry is working with State and Federal agencies to construct a new AMTRAK station as an addition to the Magic Plus effort to redevelop the land.  

Future plans include the extension of the M1 rail line to 8 mile road and, construction of an east and west connection with the development of a M102 rail line going all the way from Lake St. Clair and points west to Livonia, Novi, and Wixom. It is high time for a regional rail system and places like the State Fair property and the old Northland Shopping center will make great hubs for regional transportation. This project will create 3 to 4 times more jobs than the current Meijer/Gateway project and, bring untold revenue to the County and City. Whereas we do not support the META group’s plan for the fairgrounds because it is rife with duplication of the Magic Plus group and does not serve the best interest of the City. 

Mayor Coleman Young always felt that the best thing for the City is working at a well-paying job with the City Services to match. Now that City employees and retirees can purchase property at %50 less than others, we want to encourage the re-investment by carrying it forward. Group purchase of homes on a block and people in them working in our Schools, Firehouses, and Police Precincts will contribute to the renaissance of Detroit.

Rapid Transit on Grand River and Gratiot will enhance the region’s growth and two bridges on the Detroit River will only add to the mix. Suggesting that a passenger light rail track be built on the old or new Ambassador Bridge may be a peace offering to settle the dispute with Mr. Maroun and everyone. Connection with DDOT and, VIA is a strong possibility if the details can be worked out. In the end it is time to stop bickering and start putting shovels in the ground to create jobs and prosperity for everyone to get the job done.

Marijuana Provisioning Centers and Industrial Hemp progress for 2015 in the 2014 Lame Duck Session.

By Richard C. Clement


"Will the Weed truly be Freed?"  -
A Detroit Resident with a vision at the Northwest Activities Center

The possible adoption into law of House Bills 4271, 5104, 5439, and 5440 will create green jobs in the State of Michigan with Medical Marijuana and Industrial Hemp. House Bills 4271 and 5104 to authorize Provisioning Centers and Safe Testing Facilities for Medical Marijuana in the State of Michigan will create jobs and revenue for cash starved cities.  These bills have sparked an effort by the Detroit City Council led by Council member James Tate, Detroit Legislative Policy Division and, Building Safety and Engineering to develop a city ordinance to address the growth and management of these places of business.   

We are hoping that fees are reasonable for these licenses and that people are safe in these places of business.  Just like any other business, code compliance with the Detroit Fire Marshall regarding exits and extinguishers are a must.  For places that have growing operations the city wants the electricity to be code compliant, meaning that there will be opportunities for electricians to keep places safe from burning down because of an electrical fire.

Concerns for law enforcement are a valid government id and keeping the peace therefore, the long delayed picture on the Medical Marijuana card must be addressed in Lansing. People who have Facebook and Twitter accounts and; have a Michigan Drivers License cannot use the excuse that a picture on a card gives Government too much information.

Saying No to Jim and Jane Crow!

We also would appreciate that opportunities will be diverse and include people of all racial, ethnic, gender, and other backgrounds to have an equal chance to participate in the business end instead of being a statistic in the legal system. 

Educational Opportunities: 

Schools that participate in agriculture education would be encouraged to thrive in Michigan. Science, Technology, Engineering and Math are skills that can be developed by investing in growing and manufacturing projects.

Grow in Detroit!

House Bills 5439 and 5440 will authorize agriculture resources to grow and manufacture products from Industrial Hemp which is the male cannabis plant. The male plant is a non-intoxicant version of the Marijuana plant. Michigan farmers and agriculture concerns will be able to grow this plant for products like paper, fuel, auto body parts and many other things. When prosperity from green jobs takes effect, it will be because of people like Everett Swift of the Michigan Industrial Hemp Education and Marketing Project, www.mihemp.org, and Stephen Sharpe, esteemed board member of the Michigan Chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana laws www.minorml.org. These two men are responsible for working with Michigan’s agricultural community to make Industrial Hemp use a reality in Michigan.

In order to get these bills enacted we must pass our differences across party lines. From now until next Friday, you must call and email bomb the Michigan Legislature at www.house.mi.gov about passing these bills to Gov. Rick Snyder for his signature into law. 

In your email please copy and paste this line into the Subject of your email:

HB4271, 5104, 5439, 5440 (Support)

Send your concerns about the situation, then Fire up a Republican in Lansing by phone 

Contact information Republican Representatives --House  

John Bumstead (R-Newaygo)                 517-373-7317

Hugh D Crawford(R-Novi)                     517-373-0827

Anthony G. Forlini (R-Harrison Twp.)           517-373-0113

Frank Foster (R-Pellston)                     517-373-2629

Bob Genetski (R-Saugatuck)                 517-373-0836

Ken Goike (R-Ray Township)                 517-373-0820

Gail Haines (R-Waterford)                     517-373-0615

Martin Howrylak (R-Troy)                     517-373-1783

Bradford C. Jacobsen (R-Oxford)                 517-373-1798

Klint Kesto (R-Commerce Twp.)                 517-373-1799

Matt Lori (R-Constantine)                     517-373-0832

Michael D. McCready (R-Birmingham)            517-373-8670

Tom McMillin (R-Rochester Hills)            517-373-1773

Paul Muxlow (R-Brown City)                517-373-0835

Dave Pagel (R-Berrien Springs)                517-373-1796

Peter Pettalia (R-Presque Isle)                517-373-0833

Amanda Price (R-Holland)                517-373-0838

Al Pscholka (R-Stevensville)                517-373-1403

Bruce R. Rendon (R-Lake City)                517-373-3817

Wayne A. Schmidt (R-Traverse City)            517-373-1766

Robert Verheulen (R-Walker)                517-373-8900

Ken Yonker (R-Caledonia)                    517-373-0840

Time is of the essence!

URGENT! 12/14 12/15 Deadlines for Health Care, FEMA and SBA Help coming quick!

By Richard C. Clement

You have until Sunday December 14th, 2014 to sign up for FEMA and SBA help and,  Monday December 15^th to sign up for health insurance as required by the Affordable Care Act. 

Don’t delay, act today!  Sign up Now at www.healthcare.gov

If you have an emergency condition, no hospital can turn you away. Any medical facility that denies you emergency health care because you don’t have the “right” insurance may be prosecuted for civil and criminal penalties. Your monthly premium may be as low as .08 a month based on your income.

You may shop around for a better plan than what you have now if you are an existing participant.

Greater Christ Baptist Church will be giving assistance in enrolling people for health care coverage

For more information please contact

GBC (313)924-6900 or Jamie 3138203285

www.healthcare.gov

Urgent Message from SBA Office of Disaster Assistance

The SBA Office of Disaster Assistance stands ready to assist those Southeast Michigan residents and business owners that have sustained damage from the severe storms and flooding that occurred between August 11 and 13 of this year. Although many business have indicated a need for assistance, very few have returned their applications.

At the close of business on October 22, 2014 the SBA has approved $23,084,800 for homeowners, renters and businesses in the State of Michigan with $5,537,600 approved in the City of Detroit. However there is much more that we can do.

Please join us in urging those with damage to submit their SBA Disaster Loan Applications as soon as possible and before the deadline of December 14th, 2014.

Click Here to Apply

For questions please contact

Michael B. Peacock

Public Affairs Specialist

US Small Business Administration

101 Marietta Street NW Suite 700

Atlanta, GA 30303-2725

Phone: 404-606-1988

Federal Disaster Loans for Homeowners Renters, and Business of All Sizes

Flood Victim News

The deadline for applying for disaster relief from FEMA is

Sunday, December 14th, 2014 @  5:00pm

The Governor’s office has declared

Detroit a disaster area on Sept 25th

Click Here for FEMA Flood Disaster Help 

www.DisasterAssistance.gov

Property Owners may qualify for loans up to $200,000

Renters and Landlords for loans up to $40,000

Citizens may qualify for Small Business loan or $32,400 in financial assistance

Cush Creates Commerce on Woodward Ave and Detroit City Airport

By Richard C. Clement

Air Force 3 - US Secretary of State 

On October 21^st, 2014 Councilman Cushingberry implemented a resolution authorizing an application for a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone Certificate for Lofts of Merchants Row. This structure is located at 1413 Woodward Avenue.  The structure is to be rehabilitated at an estimated cost of $188,095 per unit, creating 42 units of rental housing.This resolution is another example of giving back to the community and bringing in new residents to our city. 

In other action from City Council, the Councilman has introduced a resolution authorizing a contract (#2896481 / 2014) to provide auditing services for Preparation of the City and Airport 2014 CAFR to Plante & Moran PLLP for $675,000(USD). This action is in line with an overall goal of reopening Detroit City Airport for commercial and private air service in the near future. 

To bring Detroit back from the brink we must invest into the assets of the City like the Airport, instead of selling it off to a private company.  Working with Council member Scott Benson, there is enough room for an additional 2 runways of over 9000 feet long that will enable larger planes to land within the City of Detroit. 

Driving to Flint to fly out of Bishop Airport to save money will be a thing of the past because, Detroit City Airport will be able to provide the same services and fly to more destinations than ever before.

Please stay tuned to City Council for additional good news from Detroit.

Obama Impeachment Hearings and Electorial College Changes are on the table in 2015. Vote Early!

by Friends of Cushingberry

"You must remember in November what a Lame Duck did in December - Vote Straight Democratic" 

      - District 2 resident at the 1917 Bistro on Livernois Avenue of Fashion -

Mayor Duggan says:
Give Schauer the Power and,
Vote Straight "D" for prosperity!

Impeachment hearings for President Obama?  Changing the Electoral College in 2016 for the purpose of awarding a state to a candidate by US congressional districts instead of a statewide popular vote?  Under this plan, it would have been Presdent's McCain and Romney. This is in the plan when everyone stays home and does not vote.  If the GOP remains in charge of State Executive Offices, Water Authorities, Pension Boards, US House of Representatives, and US Senate, etc, the process of Government will come to a grinding halt.  Instead of allocating money for fixing and upgrading infrastructure assets like Roads, the Electrical Grid, Water and Sewers, money will be diverted for countless impeachment hearings. If the current leadership in Lansing is successful, the tax credit for healthcare will be eliminated. This means that your monthly premium will increase from $0.08 to over $400 per month.

By voting straight for Democratic, you will allow President Obama to continue to lower gas prices in the middle of the conflict with ISIL to defund their ability to pay for their weapons of mass destruction. You will allow the President to create jobs through investment into public projects to fix and build new transportation assets like bridges and regional rail. You will allow funding for projects like commercial air service at City Airport.  These and many other benefits are in jeopardy before the President leaves office on Friday, January 20^th 2017 at 12:00pm. 

If you don’t vote, come December the lame duck will get pumped up on Viagra and Steroids, and become a Mighty Duck. By changing the laws on a December morning in 2012 at 4:20am, additional right to work laws, emergency managers, and the elimination of early voting will become law. Prisoners will continue to be fed Maggots by private prison companies with no accountability and protection from prosecution. Roads like the Davidson Freeway Service Drive will continue to be a shining example of how not to maintain one. This road is very close to being un-drivable because of the large craters in the road.

Your vote counts and by being a registered voter, a citizen has the ability to change the law through a ballot initiative. When the Governor and the Legislature refuse to act in the interest of the people, registered voters can get enough valid signatures on an initiative petition to force a vote in the next upcoming election. If the voters approve in the majority, the petition becomes a law. Laws like a statewide flat rate insurance, 30 year road construction standards, and other initiatives can be successful through a ballot initiative.  

To protect the law you must start voting from the bottom and get to the top. Judges to protect the law are very important, State Supreme Court candidates like Debra Thomas, Richard Bernstine, and Wayne County Probate Court Candidate Rohn Mitchell will make decisions that will protect the basic human dignity and rights of individuals who deserve fairness. Therefore it is your obligation and duty to register AND vote in this and every election early by absentee. Early voting starts on October 6^th, 2014 and ends on Nov 3rd 4:30pm from 8am to 4pm at the Detroit Elections Bureau 2978 W. Grand Boulevard Detroit MI 48202 for a new direction, and protection for the people.

Break Every Chain: Marc Emery's shackled ride through the Detroit/Windsor Tunnel on the way to Freedom and the Right to Vote

By Richard Clement

"Free at Last! Free at Last! Thank God almighty we free at last"   - M.L.K.

Marc & Jodie Emery

Marc Emery returned home to his wife and Canada a free man on Tuesday, August 12, 2014 @ 4:20pm EDT after serving 5 years in a US Federal Prison for selling seeds. Dressed in a T-Shirt, Shorts and, a brand new pair of Nike gym shoes, Marc was flown in shackles and chains from Louisiana to Minnesota and dropped off in Toledo where he was driven to the Detroit/Windsor tunnel.  At the Canadian border the chains and shackles were removed and, he was released to his wife at the Windsor Police Station to a cheering crowd of supporters. 

Marc's Freedom Walk

He was met at the Windsor Police Station by his wife Jodie and a crowd of international supporters with some of the best BC Bud you could get your lips on. Marc Emery gave a 1 hour interview to the press and the people regarding his time in the USA.  He was VERY complimentary of the United States and the progress made in decriminalizing Marijuana and stated the USA is farther ahead than Canada and that Canadian youth must participate in the upcoming election in 2015.  Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper is about where George Bush was and, Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette is on Freeing the Weed.

Fresh out of Federal Prison

Marc’s message was very clear regarding the importance of participating in the political process by voting. He quoted Martin Luther King and is well read on the struggles of Malcolm X and the Civil Rights movement. He spent time in Mississippi with prisoners who were sympathetic to his plight and received thousands of letters supporting him from American citizens who are tired of being victims of a losing war on drugs. He was very adamant and insisted that voting is VERY important if people want true change in their communities.Currently, Marc is banned forever to return to the United States of America because of his “conviction”.  Marc made the point clear by inferring that “By voting and participating in the political process, laws will be changed so that employees of the people like President Obama, Gov. Snyder, Mayor Duggan and, other elected officials can sign laws and ordinances to remove prohibition on people like Marc Emery, Adam Brook and, Ryan Bashore so that they can travel to different countries without fear because of their political beliefs.”

Unity celebration on the
Ambassador Bridge at 4:20pm

Marc and Jodie emery are planning a 30 day tour through Canada to start the removal process of current Prime Minister Stephen Harper by registering and taking people to vote by 2015. In America, the current crop of Presidential Candidates for 2016 are totally weak when it comes to Marijuana decriminalization.  There is an election in Michigan on November 5, 2014 at 7am EDT with early voting starting two weeks prior to that date.  Voting Locations at Wayne County Community College East and West Campus have free parking whereas Election Central on Grand Boulevard is closer for people who are driving around downtown/midtown.

Jodie Emery is running for
Political Office in Canada

Finally I let him know that he is welcome to come to City of Detroit anytime and, gave Marc and Jodie a hug with an apology on behalf of the residents of District 2, the City of Detroit, State of Michigan and, the People of the United States of America for the pain and suffering that we put on his family because of failed drug war managed by few people with a misguided agenda.

Marc Emery was sent home like Dolemite with
 $100 and a new pair of Nikes

Councilman Cushingberry Supports The Affordable Care Act Tax Credit that lowers monthly rates by as much as %800

Health Care in Detroit 

By Richard C. Clement

Did you know the tax credit is still available under the Affordable Care Act?  If your income falls below the limit based on family size, you may qualify for a significant tax credit for health insurance. This credit may have the ability to lower your monthly payment to under $1.00 per month. 

You still have time to sign up for the plan because having health insurance is now the law.  A lot of insurance companies are offering their own version of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to compete with other insurance companies.  Organizations like Blue Cross, Humana and others offer similar plans because they all will have to comply with the law and, competition is a part of  being in business. 

The Following table is from Health Care Marketplace literature.

Household Size	Income Limit	Alaska
1	$45,960	$57,400
2	$62,040	$77,520
3	$78,120	$97,640
4	$94,200	$117,760
5	$110,000	$137,880
6	$126,360	$158,000

Unfortunately, Michigan Attorney General, Bill Schuette has decided to fight this benefit by joining in on a law suit to eliminate it altogether (Detroit Free Press Article – Click Here). If they are successful, your ACA monthly insurance rate will increase over %800 percent.  For a household of one person, your Bronze Insurance plan will go from $0.38 cents to $312 per month. You can still register for ACA coverage by logging onto www.healthcare.gov and sign up.

Finally, if you support this benefit, you must Vote in August and November for a change in U.S. Congress, State Legislature and, the Michigan Attorney General’s Office.

What Does it Take to Make a Great City: Olympia Entertainment and the City Of Detroit Rebuilding the Neighborhoods

By Richard Clement

"The Red Wings Paying it Forward to the City of Detroit - Go Wings"

The Red Wings are giving back to Detroit citizens in the form of General Contractors supporting On The Job apprentice trade program opportunities for people who want professional credentials. Opportunities for certifications and licenses in areas such as plumbing,  carpentry, electricians, are being discussed by project leaders and City officials.

A vital part of rebuilding the city is to train people to do the job. The Olympia Project and Motown Museum project is a long-term investment into Detroit. The goal is to hire %51 Detroit based contractors. This project is anticipated to have many Sub Contractors working on the project under the General Contractor.  Being a bonded sub-contractor is a plus however, if you company is not bonded, a participating General Contractor will purchase insurance for a non-bonded sub contractor.

The main benefit of this arrangement is that once the project is finished, these people can be hired to do other construction jobs in the neighborhoods. Fixing savable property and building new property will be a re-investment into the neighborhoods by the Olympia Group. This arrangement with Olympia Entertainment and the City of Detroit will help to eradicate the blight that is in our City now.

In other job news, there will be an immediate need for Landscapers for the I-94 project.  The Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC) is committed to hiring %51 Detroit based businesses. If you interested and a licensed landscaper, please do not hesitate to apply. The Project is $35,585 per year for two years and, you will need to put %10 down if you’re interested in doing the job.  If your company is not bonded, opportunities will be made for you to get one.

If you need assistance, please contact Christopher T. Jackson at 313 625 7225 (cjackson@jacksoncgrp.com) or call Councilman Cushingberry's office at 313 224-4535

"No Detroiter left behind without a job!"

A Detroit City Council 90 Day Progress Report, On a Mission of Positive Transition.

By  Richard Clement

 "At the end of the First Quarter 
    City Leadership  10 votes
    Nolan Finley           0 votes"
       - Quote from a Lions Fan -

Mayor Duggan and Council

Detroit City Airport hosting a regional Air Carrier and upgrade of the facility within 2 years is on the agenda of the Detroit City Council.  With Federal Aviation Administration support, City Airport will be upgraded with longer runways and a people friendly terminal. Airport property is located in the 3^rd District and Councilman Scott Benson's Office will be the point office for project.  With the airport’s strategic location near Downtown Detroit and neighboring suburbs, people who live in Gross Pointe will not have to drive so far to Metropolitan Airport.  City airport will serve the people similar to Midway Airport in Downtown Chicago.

Our Friend George

The Council and the Mayor are making plans with the Obama Administration to make this a reality before he leaves office in 2016.  The recent interest in the Tuskegee Airmen and their heroic efforts in the service to their country will honor their memory so that our children never forget their sacrifice.  This is a project that will more that prove the cohesive working relationship by the council-members. When the elected leadership of the City of Detroit gets their full opportunity to govern as voted upon, you will witness a sea change in policy. On October 1^st, the Detroit Police Department will be under control of the Mayor and the Council by law.  Kevin Orr will be flying back to Washington DC and, will only come to visit when the Washington Redskins football team comes to Detroit to play the Lions.

Within 90 days of taking office, the City Council and Mayor have:

1.       Agreed to reopen closed Recreation Centers in Northwest Detroit.

2.       Appointed board members in areas like the Board of Review

3.       Turned on over 500 lights a week

4.       Improved the communication through the use of technology

a.       emailmike@detroitmi.gov  E-Mail Mayor Duggan

5.       An ongoing upgrade of abysmal computer technology.

a.     Within 12 months the City Mainframe will be decommissioned and system units upgraded.

6.       Made plans for upcoming funding for festivals and activities in 2014

7.       Partnered with international film makers to support the Detroit Voices segment of the Cinetopiea Film Festival in Ann Arbor and Detroit on June 4 through 8^th 2014

a.     Contest for young filmmakers in Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne Counties.    

b.      Film cannot be longer than 30 minutes

c.       Adult prize $5,000  High School Prize $1000

d.      Winners will get their film shown on the big screen at the June 4-8 film festival

                                                              i.      Topics can include Homes for $1, bankruptcy, empty homes, politics, etc.

e.     Submission Deadline is May 1^st and if you want more information, please click on this link www.cinetopiafestival.org/detroit-voices/  High schoolers and young adult filmmakers are encouraged to apply.

                                    i.    Detroit filmmaker Sultan Sharrief who directed 2010 Bilal’s Stand is based in Los Angles, is encouraged by the enthusiasm for filmmaking that Michigan’s film incentives have spurred in local young people. Detroit Voices will be reaching out to local high schools and film collectives to spread the word on the contest.

8.   Lanquage was submitted by Council President Pro Tempore George Cushingberry Jr.  for a City Ordinance requiring municipal regulation of Medical Marijuana Provisioning Centers and Safe Testing Facilities. This City ordinance is a sister law to the State of Michigan House Bills 4271 and 5103 which are awaiting the Governor’s signature.

Sean Davis and Rev. Oscar King

Citizens who live in the districts now have a district manager who is responsible for their needs. These positions are created by law via City Ordinance. Mayor Duggan and Council President Jones have provided the new leadership and dynamic change that residents demanded.   Jobs are coming back to the City because we are looking for a few good men and women to replace the aging workforce. 

Councilmember Sheffield

Municipal monitoring of provisioning centers and testing facilities for Medical Marijuana patients will put a quick and fast end to the smash and grab raids being performed by law enforcement resources of the City, County and State.  With an election coming up in August and November, the citizens of Detroit will be able to have a legitimate say in the future of our City.  You must show up with your ballot in 2014 or, let others continue enforce the current climate of operation. City Council is always open to listen to their constituents and, do not hesitate to contact your City Government if you need to because there is and, never will be an attempt to hide City Business from the residents. 

Please do not hesitate to call or communicate with us with your concerns