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Featured Items
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First Charles Pugh Community Academy a Success
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
The Charles Pugh Community Academy took place on January 26, 2012, and was designed to make strong community leaders through skill, resource and leadership development, as well as fostering better relationships between communities and government. Participants had the opportunity to learn about successful initiatives in other neighborhoods that they can implement in their own communities.
After a welcome by Council President Pugh, the sessions kicked off with Kurt Metzger (Data Driven Detroit) who presented key demographic information and statistics to Academy participants. Panels included Commander Kenneth Williams (Detroit Police Department Central District) and Karen Johnson Moore (Grandmont Rosedale Development Corporation) discussing community safety issues, as well as Brian Ellison (City of Detroit) and Theresa Zajac (Southwest Business Association) discussing community development strategies and tools for engaging with the City of Detroit. After lunch, which was sponsored by Providence Hospital, Academy participants underwent a training session with prominent community organizer Bill O'Brien (Harriet Tubman Center).
Following the success of the inaugural event, future Community Academy trainings are planned, to occur throughout the year.
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Public Hearings Set for Proposed Council Districts
Monday, January 23, 2012
Detroit City Council has released four draft maps of proposed electoral districts, as part of its efforts to comply with the revised city charter that went into effect on January 1, 2012.
Under the new charter, each City Council member (9 total) is to be elected in one of seven districts (with 2 at-large), to be drawn to ensure adequate minority representation and roughly equal population.
City Council has until February 17, 2012 to choose one of the proposed maps.
Visit the links below to view the draft maps:
City Council has also scheduled public hearings around Detroit to discuss the proposed electoral districts:
NORTHWEST Friday, February 3rd at 10:00 AM at Greater Grace Temple 23500 W. Seven Mile Rd. (Between Telegraph Rd. and Lahser Rd.)
CENTRAL Monday, February 6th at 7:00 PM at Second Ebenezer Church 14601 Dequindre Ave. (South of E. McNichols Rd. and east of I-75)
SOUTHWEST Tuesday, February 7th at 7:00 PM at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 58, 1358 Abbott St. (Enter from Porter St.)
EAST at 2:00 PM at St. Maron Center 11466 Kercheval Ave. (At the corner of St. Jean and Kercheval)
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Charles Pugh Leadership Forum at Frederick Douglass Academy
Friday, January 06, 2012
The Charles Pugh Leadership Forum is a weekly leadership development seminar series that takes place at Frederick Douglass Academy in Detroit. Founded by Detroit City Council President Charles Pugh in 2010 and co-faciliated by members of his staff, the Forum engages, informs, and empowers young black men to become the next generation of Detroit's changemakers and innovators.
Held at the former site of Council President Pugh's high school alma mater, Murray-Wright High School, the Forum uses interactive discussions and workgroups to foster brotherhood and promote excellence among seniors, guided by the motto "Setting the Standard of Leadership".
Now in its second year, the 2011-2012 Forum season has focused on college preparedness, with blue-ribbon panel discussions on subjects such as standardized test preparation, how to select a school, applying for scholarships and financial aid, and how to succeed on campus. Recognizing that college isn't for everybody, sessions on alternative career paths and entrepreneurship were also integrated into the curriculum. In addition to being mentored by Council President Pugh and all the male members of his staff, through the Forum the high school seniors serve as mentors to middle school students at Frederick Douglass Academy.
Following the holiday recess, initial Forum sessions will focus on gentleman training -- grooming, etiquette and dressing for success. As a part of this series, students will receive two custom-fitted dress shirts, a custom-fitted vest, and a bow-tie -- all free of charge. Community service activities will continue into the winter, and team-building outings to Pistons and Tigers games are also planned.
Check back soon for more information about the Charles Pugh Leadership Forum. Watch the video below for glimpse inside one of the weekly sessions.
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Council Makes Historic Cuts to Its Own Budget
Friday, December 16, 2011
As talks continue to avert municipal bankruptcy and the appointment of an emergency manager, the Detroit City Council is making historic cuts to its own budget.
Budget Facts:
- After first entering office in 2010, Council cut its salaries by 10%. - For the 2010-2011 fiscal year, Council cut its budget by $1,000,000. - For the 2011-2012 fiscal year, Council cut its budget 26.58% to date (a 10% cut at the beginning of the fiscal year in June, and another 16.58% cut in December). - Council approved a resolution (on 12/13/2011) to require non-union City employees to pay 20% of their healthcare costs. - Council President Pugh introduced a resolution (on 12/13/2011) to require non-union City employees to pay 30% of their healthcare costs (to match the amount being asked of unions employees), which will be discussed further in a special session on 12/20/2011. - For the 2012-2013 fiscal year, Council President Pugh cut his office budget by at least 25% to a historic low, and he continues to look for additional cost savings. - In the last week, most Council offices have continued layoffs, including 4 from Council President Pugh's office. - Council's budget is less than 1% of the entire City budget (the Police and Fire departments comprise approximately 60% of the City budget).
Other Budget-Related Facts:
- Council members do not have personal bodyguards, only security officers to maintain order at Council meetings. - Council members do not have drivers. - Council President Pugh pays for all the gas and maintenance on his City-owned, self-insured vehicle (a 2005 Crown Victoria), ensuring zero cost to the City.
Please check back soon, as this page will be continuously updated with additional facts about Council's exercise of due diligence and fiscal responsibility. For more information, please visit the Budget Department website.
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Joint Meetings Underway Between Council, Mayor and Unions
Tuesday, December 06, 2011
Detroit City Council, unions leaders, and the mayor are working together to resolve the city's fiscal crisis. Joint meetings between all parties are in progress, and will continue to finalize a plan before any state review is complete.
You can view Council's short term and long term recommendations here:
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Council President Pugh Eyes Toronto Marathon
Friday, December 02, 2011
Since returning from a month-long leadership training at Harvard University in July, Council President Pugh has become a self-described fitness fanatic, working out and running upwards of five miles daily. Losing a whopping 54 pounds to date, he loves to help others to develop healthy eating habits and active lifestyles.
After running his first 10k (6.2 mile) race —Detroit's annual Thanksgiving Turkey Trot —Council President Pugh has decided to run the Toronto Marathon in May 2012, with the hopes of qualifying for the Boston Marathon in Spring 2013. Check back here at PughandYou.com soon as we begin to document his personal journey toward conquering this 26.2 mile challenge.
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Council President Pugh: No Emergency Manager
Friday, December 02, 2011
Detroit City Council President Charles Pugh issued the following statement today regarding reports of Detroit’s need for an Emergency Manager:
“It is true that the City of Detroit is in fiscal crisis and more tough decisions need to be made. However, the Mayor and City Council are capable of making these decisions on our own. We realize that our biggest cost saving opportunity is in addressing our growing healthcare costs and pension obligations. But those things must be negotiated in collective bargaining and we will not achieve those savings until the unions come to the table.
In the meantime, there are many things within our control that we can do right now before there is a need for intervention from an emergency manager such as:
o Controlling the workforce – consolidate departments to eliminate redundancy and layoff workers
o Cutting contracts – demand that contractors do more with less and cut contracts if they do not comply
o Raising fees for licensing and permits
And there are a multitude of other options available to us that we simply need to execute. The City Council will support smart, tough decisions but we need the Mayor to show leadership on this issue. We should be talking about bold ideas - an Emergency Manager is the last thing we should be talking about.”
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Resources for Citizens Losing Cash Assistance
Thursday, December 01, 2011
Thousands of people will be cut off from receiving cash assistance from the State of Michigan. The state's four-year limit on cash assistance will be more strictly enforced while still allowing for hardship exceptions to include disability, recipients who care for a disabled spouse and/or child, those who are 65 or older and do not qualify for Social Security benefits or the benefit is too low; or in domestic violence situations.
Also, a new food stamp eligibility rule will be in effect that will deny food stamps to those with too many assets. We realize the effect these changes will have on many Detroit families. So, the Council President's Office has put together a list of broad resources to help those affected by these changes.
We will continue to post resources here on this site as we collect them. Also, there are resources available at http://www.michigan.gov/dhs. Our outreach team will be distributing these lists of resources in neighborhoods and communities throughout Detroit so that those without Internet access will receive them.
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World AIDS Day Detroit: Thursday, December 1st
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Council President Pugh encourages you to Know Your Status and get tested on World AIDS Day. Here are 10 Detroit locations offering free testing:
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New Graduate Job Search Guide
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Simply Hired has released a comprehensive job search guide for new graduates, The New Graduate Job Search Guide, which
includes all the essentials a new grad needs to land a job after
college. From compiling a resume to evaluating the offer and first days
on the job, this guide will prepare new graduates for job search
success. Since
lack of experience is one of the biggest challenges that new grads face
when they begin their first job search out of college, this guide
offers tools and information to give recent graduates the best chance of
finding and landing a job out of college. Not to mention, there are some comical cartoons throughout the piece, so you'll not only learn a lot, but have fun doing it! Check out The New Graduate Job Search Guide!
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City Council President Charles Pugh Launches "Shop Talk" Outreach
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
City Council President Charles Pugh and his Street Team will be visiting
local barbershops and beauty shops to engage, inform and empower
Detroiters though his recently launched "Shop Talk" outreach program.
On
June 24th, President Pugh made his way up 7 Mile,
stopping by Final Cut, Family Cuts & Fades, Headliners, and Salon
Secrets. Through informal one-on-one and group discussions, he spoke
candidly with residents about key issues, community resources and steps
being taken to address top concerns such as neighborhood improvement,
crime reduction, and city cleanliness.
Do you know a barbershop or beauty shop President Pugh should visit? Call or email the Street Team today at (313) 224-0278 or pughstreetteam@gmail.com.
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The Detroit City Council Micro-loan Program can help you start or grow a business in Detroit
Wednesday, May 04, 2011
The city of Detroit is committed to the start-up and growth of Detroit-based businesses.
The Detroit City Council recently approved $400,000 in funds to support the growth of small businesses in the city.
The Detroit City Council Micro-loan program will allow qualified candidates to receive low interest loans up to $15,000.
For more information on the micro-loan program contact Angeeline Lawrence at 313-224-9171.
Starting Your Own Business Starting your own business can be an exciting and rewarding experience that offers numerous advantages, such as the ability to be your own boss, set your own schedule and make a living doing something you enjoy. Becoming a successful entrepreneur requires sound planning, creativity and hard work. It also involves taking risks because all businesses require some form of financial investment.
While entering into the world of entrepreneurship can be an exciting, it can also be a daunting experience. To help prepare you and your business for success, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides great resources and information to help you get started, including how to start an online business, how to write a business plan, how to franchise, how to adopt technology for business benefits, find loans and grants, and much more.
Thinking about starting a business? 10 simple steps can help you plan, prepare and manage your business.Learn More...
Start-up Resources in Detroit Doing Business in Detroit Business Licenses, become a vendor, view current bids, business certification. Learn More...
Detroit Office of Targeted Business Development The Office of Targeted Business Development will facilitate and encourage the startup and growth of Detroit-based, women-owned businesses; Detroit-based, minority-owned businesses; and Detroit-based small businesses. The Office of Targeted Business Development can help your business to be more successful. Learn More...
Detroit Office of Neighborhood Commercial Revitalization (ONCR) The ONCR supports the growth of small business in clean, safe, and thriving shopping districts. The ONCR offers programs including Re$tore Detroit, Refresh Detroit, and the Small Business Detroit Micro-loan Program. Learn More...
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What You Can Do to get involved and engaged in our community
Monday, May 02, 2011
The Council President’s Office has created a brochure intended to provide you with a list of resources to help you get involved and engaged in the community. It was designed to give you specific examples of how to have measurable impact in your neighborhood. We know the power of one is real. Even the smallest commitment can make a change in the way we treat and view our city. Collectively, we can make our city safer and cleaner. We hope that this information will encourage you to join forces to build momentum to move our city forward.
Download brochure...
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Students at Burns Elementary School make pledge to become members of the City Council President's Street Team
Friday, April 08, 2011
City Council President Charles Pugh recently traveled to Burns School in Detroit where he addressed students' letters about concerns in their neighborhoods. During the visit he also deputized students as members of The Street Team.
The Council President's visit was featured on WDET 101.9 FM. Read the full story or listen to audio.
To view photos of the event click here.
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Detroit City Council passes cost savings ordinance introduced by City Council President Charles Pugh
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
The Detroit City Council voted 8-0 to approve an amendment to the city's Purchasing Ordinance, introduced by City Council President Charles Pugh. The passage of this amendment will bring significant cost savings to the city of Detroit and create transparency in our procurement process.
"This amendment is the beginning of implementing solutions that will help us save money and ultimately reduce the city's budget deficit," said Council President Charles Pugh. "By making changes in the way we purchase goods and services, the city can potentially save millions."
The amended ordinance would require the city to include prices from cooperative purchasing programs, like MiDEAL, in bid consideration.
The MiDEAL program allows Michigan local units of government to purchase from the state's contracts on the same terms, conditions, and prices as state government. Due to the state’s negotiating and purchasing power, the state can generally purchase goods and services at a lower cost than municipalities.
The MiDEAL program offers more than 250 contracts to local units of government.
The ordinance amendment will continue to protect Detroit Based Business (DBB) and will allow the acceptable DBB bidder to match the cooperative purchasing price in order to gain the winning bid.
In addition to creating cost savings for the city, the amended ordinance will also bring about transparency in the procurement process. It will require that all major and minor bids for purchases be advertised on the city of Detroit's web site.
The state of Michigan and other major cities already use online Request For Proposals (RFP) and Bid systems. These systems are cost efficient to build and maintain.
"With the implementation of an online RFP and Request For Qualifications (RFQ) system, we can help ensure that the city's bidding process is transparent and that we truly get the lowest cost for goods and services," said Pugh.
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Detroit City Council President Pugh selected to take government course at Harvard
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Marcia Gershenson, Oakland County Commissioner, and Charles Pugh, Detroit City Council President, have been named Taubman Fellows and will attend the prestigious program for Senior Executives in State and Local Government at Harvard University this summer.
"I'm grateful for this opportunity," said Pugh. "I thank SEMCOG for the chance to go to Harvard and learn from the best on how to effectively serve Detroiters. I will return as a much better public servant and Council President."
Administered through SEMCOG, The Taubman Company's Fellowship for Executive Excellence provides local public officials with demonstrated leadership an opportunity to improve their management skills and broaden their awareness of effective approaches to public sector problems.
Since 1991, The Taubman Company has sponsored the fellowship and underscored its support for the development of effective leaders in local government in the Southeast Michigan region. "We’ve been delighted to underwrite this program since its inception 21 years ago. It is a wonderful opportunity for local public sector leaders to broaden their perspectives and enhance their abilities to better serve the public," notes Robert S. Taubman, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer. "Our commitment is reaffirmed each year when we invite the graduates to our offices to share first-hand their individual experiences."
This year's Taubman Fellows have strong records of local government leadership.
Marcia Gershenson is serving her fourth term as an Oakland County Commissioner. She represents five very diverse communities in Oakland County which all have distinct economic challenges and needs. Because of reduced revenue sharing to local governments, it is a major challenge to find ways to help those communities maintain essential services. She is also committed to strengthening services that will help families of those in active military service. “I have been an active proponent of shared services and hope the Harvard program will help me to better recognize and implement shared opportunities,” Gershenson said.
Charles Pugh is serving his first term on Detroit City Council as president of City Council. Prior to that he was a television journalist in Missouri, Kansas, Indiana, and Virginia, before returning to his hometown where he spent 10 years as a reporter/anchor at Fox 2. His most significant challenge is balancing Detroit’s budget, which has a $150 million accumulated deficit that continues to grow. “My goal is to learn helpful best practices and benchmarking from cities that have solved many of the challenges we currently are struggling with as a city, including budgeting, cost savings, personnel issues, contracting, union issues, and procurement,” Pugh said.
SEMCOG is a regional planning partnership of governmental units serving 4.8 million people in the seven-county region of Southeast Michigan striving to enhance the region's quality of life.
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6th graders at Bates Academy make pledge to become members of the City Council President's Street Team
Monday, March 21, 2011
City Council President traveled to Bates Academy to deputize students as members of The Street Team.
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Detroit City Council is now on Comcast channel 22
Thursday, March 17, 2011
"After months of negotiations, I am pleased that we have reached a settlement with Mayor Dave Bing that will allow the community continued access to open government," said Detroit City Council President Charles Pugh.
"It has always been my intention that this matter should have been handled quickly, out of court, and without wasting taxpayers’ dollars.
However it is my firm belief, and the reason I fought diligently to reach a compromise with the mayor, that it is the right of the public to have television access to government that is open and transparent.
As part of the agreement, the public will be able to watch its local executive and legislative branch at work on Comcast’s channels 22 and 10. The Detroit City Council will broadcast on channel 22 and the mayor will utilize channel 10. AT&T U-Verse will carry both channels."
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Detroit City Council honors students from Howard University with a Testimonial Resolution
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
The Detroit City Council honored students from Howard University with a Testimonial Resolution. Instead of spending spring break partying and hanging out, students from Howard University traveled to Detroit to donate a week of public service.
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Detroit City Council passes a Resolution in support of the enactment of an anti-bullying ordinance
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Detroit City Council passes a Resolution in support of the enactment of an anti-bullying ordinance.
The Detroit City Council will work with Detroit Public Schools and the Ruth Ellis Center to draft and enact an enumerated ordinance that protects all students against bullying, harassment and discrimination in schools.
Research shows that approximately 15% of absenteeism in school is attributed to bullying; and that bullying in schools or other youth-focused environments is likely to result in violent and criminal behavior.
Students have the right to an education, but many students cannot take full advantage of this education because they feel unsafe in their schools or on their way to and from school.
The Detroit City Council strives to assure that each member of every school community is valued and respected regardless of perceived differences. This body recognizes the need for action to create safe school environments for students in the city of Detroit.
Read the Resolution
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Detroit Police Officers honored for bravery and service
Friday, February 11, 2011
Mayor Dave Bing and Police Chief Ralph Godbee honored the officers assigned to the 6th and 8th precinct for their acts of heroism.
A special recognition ceremony was held for Cmdr. Brian Davis, Officer David Anderson and Sgts. Ray Saati and Carrie Schulz, who were injured when a gunman walked into the police station and started shooting last month.
City Council President Charles Pugh joined Mayor Bing and Chief Godbee in the ceremony and presented the officers with a Distinguish Service Award in recognition of bravery and service.
Seventeen Detroit police officers received awards for actions taken during and after the shooting at the 6th and 8th precinct.
Honored Thursday were:
• Cmdr. Brian Davis
• Officer David Anderson
• Sgt. Ray Saati
• Sgt. Carrie Schulz
• Sgt. James Kirklin
• Sgt. Michael Ingels
• Sgt. Marcellus Ball
• Sgt. Joseph Turner
• Investigator Amir Smith
• Officer Theodore Jackson
• Officer Paul Pesmark
• Officer Lacell Rue
• Officer Rodney Cushingberry
• Officer Bradley Clark
• Officer Melissa Adams
• Officer Tamboura Jackson
• Sgt. Tyrone Guinn
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Council President Pugh and Pro Tem Brown meet with state legislators
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
City Council President Charles Pugh and President Pro Tem Gary Brown traveled to Lansing to meet with leaders of the state Legislature on Tuesday and Wednesday. During the two-day trip, Pugh and Brown worked to build relationships with our new state leaders and also held discussions about maintaining control of our water and sewerage department.
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President Pugh launches Male Leadership Forum at Douglass Academy for Young Men
Friday, January 14, 2011
City Council President Charles Pugh launched the Male Leadership Forum at Douglass Academy for Young Men - an all-boys DPS school.
The Male Leadership Forum is a mentoring program that aims to teach students about leadership and success. As part of the initiative, the Council President and male members of his staff have adopted Douglass Academy for Young Men.
Every Wednesday, Pugh and his team go into the academy and teach students about setting and accomplishing goals, managing adversity and tools to becoming successful.
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Detroit City Council honors the Detroit 300 with a Testimonial Resolution
Thursday, January 13, 2011
The Detroit City Council honored the Detroit 300 with a Testimonial Resolution for their outstanding work in the community.
Click here to watch video of the presentation of the Testimonial Resolution.
In September of 2010, the Detroit 300 was formally established to coalesce the long standing efforts of Pulitzer Prize-winning Rev. Angelo B. Henderson, host of “Your Voice” on AM 1200 WCHB, acclaimed community leader Raphael B. Johnson, CEO of Total Package Lifestyle, LLC and founder of THE 180 PROGAM, and activist/organizer Malik Shabazz, head of the New Marcus Garvey Movement.
It is the mission of the Detroit 300 to create neighborhood stability by galvanizing a community of every day Detroiters who work together to proactively and aggressively fight crime through organizing and strengthening blocks clubs, and promoting collaborations between citizens and police.
Detroit 300’s most notable successes include the arrest of the suspected east side serial rapist, the arrest of a man who brutally murdered Drea Davis after only 1-hour of community patrolling, and the capture of men responsible for raping a 90 year-old woman, all the while putting pressure on crack dealers, carjackers and other criminals to stop injuring our neighborhoods.
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City Council President Pugh is proud to welcome back the Motown Winter Blast for its seventh year in Detroit
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
City Council President Pugh is proud to welcome back the Motown Winter Blast.
"The Motown Winter Blast is one of my favorite events and I am proud that it is back in Detroit for its seventh year," said Detroit City Council President Charles Pugh. "The 2011 festival will showcase the many great things our city has to offer not only during the winter months, but all year long."
The Motown Winter Blast returns to Campus Martius Park in downtown Detroit Feb. 11-13.
Snowmaking returns to Winter Blast with special snow cannons that will add to the festive, winter environment. The cannons will augment natural snow to guarantee snowshoeing and snow hills for children to enjoy. In addition, many other favorite outdoor activities from previous years will return, such as marshmallow roasting, professional and amateur ice skating exhibitions, and brilliantly carved and lighted ice sculptures. Three stages will boast more than 50 performing musical acts. All Winter Blast concerts are free. The festival also will offer an arts and crafts area, food from 10 restaurants and caterers, and other entertainment.
There is a “charge” to enter Motown Winter Blast this year, but the cost is a donation to Matrix Human Services and the 3 Million Pound Challenge. Entrants can donate the following to gain admission: a canned food item; a book; or $1 that will be donated directly to Matrix Human Services to help those in need.
The three-day festival will be open from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Feb. 11, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Feb. 12 and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. on Feb. 13. Originally created as the backdrop for Super Bowl XL, the festival attracted more than 75,000 people last year. For additional public information, visit http://www.winterblast.com or call 313-963-8418.
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The Detroit City Council returns from recess
Monday, January 10, 2011
The Detroit City Council returned from winter recess and back to the council table for Formal Session on Tuesday.
Attending a city council meeting is a great way to get involved in your local government! We encourage you to join us at one of upcoming meetings. Click here to view Detroit City Council’s standing committee structure and schedule.
If you can't make it to city hall you can watch it live by clicking here.
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Martin Luther King Day is Monday, Jan. 17
Saturday, January 01, 2011
“Let us not use Martin Luther King Day as simply a day off,” said Detroit City Council President Charles Pugh. “Let this be a day to celebrate our freedom. Let this be a day to acknowledge not only Dr. King, but also all those who fought tireless to ensure our freedom.”
Martin Luther King Day events:
Commemorative Breakfast, 8 a.m. Guest speaker the Rev. Byron C. Moore of Historic Ebenezer A.M.E. Church of Detroit, music from Armond Jackson and Friends, and the Revelation Choir. $35. Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, 315 E. Warren Ave., Detroit. (313) 494-5800.
UNCF/DIAC 19th annual MLK Breakfast, 8:30 a.m. Guest speaker Kenneth Flowers, pastor of Greater New Mt. Moriah Baptist Church. Performance by Angel Chisholm. Dennis Myles will perform a Dr. King speech. $35. Greater New Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church Conference Center, 586 Owen St., Detroit. 873-1500.
Martin Luther King Day March & Rally, 12 noon.The 8th annual event in downtown Detroit reaffirms the peace and social justice legacy of Dr. King who would have been 82-years-old. Guest speaker Mr. Willie Mukasa Ricks, a former field secretary for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), who worked and marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in the South. Detroit City Councilwoman JoAnn Watson will pay special tribute to the late Rev. Dr. Lucius Walker, a leader in Pastors for Peace. Central United Methodist Church, 23 E. Adams St., Detroit, MI, 48272 671-3715.
We Shall Never Forget, 1-3 p.m. A commemorative event celebrating the lives 2009-10 victims of violence (ages 25 and younger) in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Presented by Triumph Church, the Detroit Police Department and Angelo Henderson, host of "Your Voice" on Newstalk WCHB-AM (1200). Triumph Church-East Campus, 2760 E. Grand Blvd., Detroit. Visit www.triumphch.org for more information, or to submit a victim's photo and information (name, date of birth, date of death, etc.)
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The City Council President tours the Detroit One Stop Service Center at the Samaritan Center
Thursday, December 30, 2010
The Detroit Workforce Development Department oversees four Detroit One Stop Service Centers. The One Stop Service Centers are free to individuals searching for employment. The centers provide job seekers with employment, training and supportive services that include: application and resume help; computer labs and training; GED prep and testing; interviewing techniques and more.
Detroit One Stop Service Centers locations:
DWDD One Stop Service Center - Downtown 455 W. Fort St. Detroit, MI 48226 General Number: (313) 962-9675 Fax: (313) 962-3624 Voice/TTY: (800) 649-3624
DWDD One Stop Service Center - West 9301 Michigan Ave. Detroit, MI 48210 General Number: (313) 846-2240 Fax: (313) 846-2247 Voice/TTY: (800) 649-3624
DWDD One Stop Service Center - North 707 W. Milwaukee Ave. Detroit, MI. 48202 General Number: (313) 873-7321 Fax: (313) 873-7360 Voice/TTY: (800) 649-3624
DWDD One Stop Service Center - East Samaritan Center 5555 Connor Detroit, MI 48213 General Number: (313) 579-4925 Fax: (313) 579-4922 Voice/ TTY: (800) 649-3624
For more information visit your nearest One Stop Center.
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Council President Pugh calls together business owners
Monday, December 13, 2010
In an effort to strengthen the partnership between the city of Detroit and our business community, City Council President Charles Pugh launched his Business Outreach Tour Thursday, Dec. 9.
The tour brought small business owners together to address concerns, supply information and resources, and offer solutions for improving city-business relations.
“We want to make Detroit a more desirable business climate,” said City Council President Charles Pugh. “Small businesses are the economic engine of our city and I will work to create policy from our Business Outreach Tour discussions.”
The City Council President will hold Business Outreach Tours throughout business districts in Detroit.
The Business Outreach Tour is an invitation-only event. Detroit business owners who would like to attend one of the Council President’s upcoming tours should email business@pughandyou.com.
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City Council President Pugh shops in Detroit for the holiday
Wednesday, December 01, 2010
City Council President Charles Pugh is encouraging residents to join him in shopping in Detroit for the holidays.
Detroiters spend nearly $2 billion dollars in retails sales outside of the city of Detroit. The Council President is asking residents to commit to doing at least 10% of their holiday shopping in Detroit.
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City Council President Charles Pugh presents Cass Tech’s football team with Spirit of Detroit Awards
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
The Council President presented Spirit of Detroit Awards to the Cass Tech football team (coaches and players). They are the 2010 Detroit Public School League Champions, State Regional Champions and State District Champions. Pugh also gave each coach and player a ticket to the Detroit Lions vs. the Minnesota Vikings game.
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City Council President Charles Pugh visits residents at the Pablo Davis Senior Apartments
Thursday, November 18, 2010
City Council President Charles Pugh visited residents at the Pablo Davis Senior Apartments. During the two hour visit, the Council President ate lunch with the seniors, addressed concerns, and shared his plans for improving Detroit.
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Neighborhood Canvassing to Increase Community Involvement
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
City Council President Charles Pugh and The Street Team go door-to-door speaking with residents in Detroit's Sherwood Forest neighborhood. City Council President Charles Pugh launched Neighborhood Canvassing in February. Neighborhood Canvassing is part of a larger effort to increase visibility, community involvement and strengthen the partnership between city council and our citizens.
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Shop Detroit December 11th!!! Enjoy the fun & excitement of an urban shopping experience.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
For the seventh consecutive year, Detroit Synergy is inviting metro Detroiters to “Shop Detroit!” This year, Synergy teams up with fellow non-profit, Inside Detroit, to encourage people from across Southeast Michigan to enjoy the fun and excitement of an urban shopping experience, and to celebrate shopping local small businesses. Shoppers can explore recent additions to the Detroit retail scene, as well as hit their old favorites. Traditionally, this event has brought 200–300 shoppers to the city. "Shop Detroit" takes place this year from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, December 11th.
The day begins downtown, with check-in at Inside Detroit’s Welcome Center, located at 1253 Woodward Avenue, where shoppers can collect a map of participating merchants, as well as information on special discounts and promotions offered to “Shop Detroit 2010” participants.
In addition to the free area map highlighting more than 75 places to shop and snack, free shuttle service to the Midtown shopping district and Eastern Market, along with several other stops, is being arranged courtesy of Inside Detroit. Other goodies and surprises are also in store for shoppers.
New additions for 2010 include the participation of the Virgil H. Carr Cultural Arts Center/Arts League of Michigan and their gallery shop. Returning participants include Bureau of Urban Living in Midtown and the world-famous Henry the Hatter. Other unique retailers include Good People Popcorn for gourmet popcorn delights, Woodhouse Day Spa for total relaxation, The Runway, Scentsations, and Spectacles.
The event is free but please RSVP at http://shopdetroit2010.eventbrite.com. The first 50 people that RSVP will receive a Shop Detroit Reusable Shopping Bag!!
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Making city government more accessible
Friday, November 05, 2010
Along the Woodward bus route, City Council President Charles Pugh brings government directly to the people of Detroit.
As part of City Council President Charles Pugh’s commitment to making government more accessible, he and the Street Team regularly ride the DDOT bus on Friday afternoons.
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DMC/Vanguard breaks ground on new Children’s Hospital of Michigan Specialty Center
Monday, November 01, 2010
City Council President Charles Pugh was proud to join the many community leaders in the ceremonial groundbreaking of the new Children's Hospital of Michigan Specialty Center in Detroit.
The new five level, 105,550 square-foot facility is the first expansion of the footprint of the Detroit Medical Center central campus in almost three decades, reflecting the health system's commitment to build and grow in the city of Detroit. The Children's Hospital of Michigan Specialty Center will be home to the general pediatrics clinic, adolescent medicine, outpatient rehabilitation, specialty clinics and 200 physician office suites. The project includes convenient, ample, surface-level parking adjacent to the planned facility.
"Children's Hospital of Michigan outpatient volumes have grown significantly in the past several years," said Children's Hospital of Michigan President Herman Gray, MD. "The new specialty center will help us improve access for children we treat today and tomorrow by providing them with a more spacious, child-and-family-friendly environment." In 2009, the Children's Hospital of Michigan saw 246,000 outpatient and emergency department visits from patients throughout the state and beyond.
Construction is anticipated to be completed for the new Children's Hospital of Michigan Specialty Center in early 2012.
For more information and to view photos and video click here.
*SOURCE DMC Children's Hospital of Michigan*
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Pugh and You Street Team
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Let's be friends! The Pugh and You Street Team is now on Facebook and Twitter!
Council President Pugh has made it his priority to engage, inform, and empower Detroiters to improve their communities and strengthen their neighborhoods. In an effort to assist citizens in resolving community issues, President Pugh has developed an innovative concept called the Street Team. This team comprised of staff, interns, and volunteers, will be in the community everyday, as centers of information, providing necessary resources to the people of Detroit. President Pugh, with his revolutionary Street Team, is taking the government to the people!
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City Council President Charles Pugh Reads to Children
Thursday, October 14, 2010
City Council President Charles Pugh takes a break from the council chambers to read ‘Duck On A Bike’ to children at the Detroit Public Library - Wilder Branch.
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Council President Talks with DPS Students
Friday, October 08, 2010
City Council President Charles Pugh has made a commitment to engage, imform, and empower Detroiters.
As part of that commitment, the Council President, in partnership with the Detroit Public School Board, will hold a series of discussions on violence prevention with students from local high schools and middle schools.
The Council President will spend an hour talking with students, selected by the school's counselors. Together, Pugh and the students will work to come up with solutions to reduce violence and resolve conflicts.
Monday, the Council President sat down with 11th and 12th grade students from Mumford High School. He will visit the following schools in the month of October:
-10/14 - Pershing High School; 9am -10/15 - Northwestern High School; 9am -10/15 - Southwestern High School; 2pm -10/18 - Osbourne High School; 9am
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City Council Hearing on Detroit Fires
Wednesday, October 06, 2010
Detroit City Council held a public hearing to investigate the Sept. 7 fires that destroyed 71 city residences.
During the hearing, City Council questioned Detroit Fire Chief James Mack and Detroit Edison President Steve Kurmas about the handling of the fires. To watch the recorded broadcast of the hearing click here.
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Day of Wishes Radiothon
Tuesday, October 05, 2010
City Council President Charles Pugh co-hosted the Day of Wishes Radiothon with 96.3 WDVD Host Jesse Addy and Make-A-Wish Kid Christa Knuth.
The Day of Wishes Radiothon raised $22,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation Michigan Chapter.
You can still donate to the Make-A-wish Foundation by clicking here.
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AIDS Walk 2010
Thursday, September 30, 2010
City Council President Charles Pugh laced up his walking shoes and join the many Detroiters for a 5K walk around Palmer Park to support AIDS Walk Michigan 2010.
Each year, AIDS Walk Michigan takes place in various Michigan cities simultaneously. The annual AIDS Walk helps to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and funds for local AIDS services. For more info click here.
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Spirit of Detroit Award
Thursday, September 30, 2010
City Council President Charles Pugh was honored to present Tigers Outfielder Johnny Damon with a Spirit of Detroit Award.
Damon chose to pass up an opportunity to return to the Boston Red Sox, and remain with the Tigers.
“I love Detroit,” said Damon.
And Detroit loves you back!
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Evening City Council Meeting
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Detroit City Council listened to the concerns of residents during the Evening City Council Meeting held at St. Raymond Catholic Church.
The next Evening City Council Meeting is scheduled for Oct. 19, 2010 at 7 p.m. at New Prospect Missionary Baptist Church. Located at 6330 Pembroke, Detroit, MI 48221.
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Celebrity Wheelchair Basketball Game
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
City Council President Charles Pugh coached the Motor City Rollers at the 9th Annual Celebrity Wheelchair Basketball Game at The Palace of Auburn Hills.
The 2010 Celebrity Wheelchair Basketball Game brought out Detroit’s favorite TV, sports and radio personalities. They played in wheelchairs alongside DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan’s award winning wheelchair basketball team, the Detroit Diehards.
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10 Ways to Help Maintain a Safe Community
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
We each need to get more involved in our community. Here are 10 simple ways to help maintain a safe community:
Turn your porch light on. Shine a light in your community to keep criminals at bay.
Introduce yourself to your neighbors. You can’t tell if someone is intruding if you don’t even know who lives there. Exchange phone numbers or email addresses to stay in contact with one another.
Join or create a block club, community group, or neighborhood association. An involved community is a safe community.
Adopt a child. Choose a child in your neighborhood to mentor.
Speak to those you see in your neighborhood. Criminals hate being recognized, so you can disarm them just by speaking.
Know your community liaison officer. Your community liaison officer will be able to follow up on complaints regularly.
Attend Safety Training Workshops. DPD offers classes that teach citizens about public safety. (Contact your local precinct for details)
If you see trash, pick it up. A clean community is a safe community.
Report any suspicious activity you observe. Be sure to dial the correct number for your issue. For example, for a loose animal one would call animal control.
Have safe and clean FUN in your neighborhood. Organize a community basketball game or have a cookout to bring everyone together.
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Pugh Rides DDOT
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
As part of City Council President Charles Pugh’s commitment to bringing government directly to the people of Detroit, he and the Street Team regularly ride the DDOT bus on Friday afternoons.
“It’s important that our residents know that we are all in this together.” said Pugh. “They should not have to come to city hall to get their problems solved, we should go to them. Detroiters will regularly see me and members of my staff in their neighborhoods working with them to improve our city.”
Pugh’s bus ride is part of a larger effort to increase community involvement and strengthen the partnership between city council and our citizens.
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Second Chance Task Force
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
The Second Chance Task Force, chaired by Council President Pugh and co-chaired by Councilman Spivey, recently held their second meeting. The Second Task Force aims to help individuals with felonies and men and women returning home from prison. For more information or to get involved contact QuanTez Pressley at 313.224.2087 or pressleyq@detroitmi.gov
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ARISE Detroit's 4th Annual Neighborhoods Day
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
City Council President Charles Pugh was proud to join the many community leaders and groups for the announcement of ARISE Detroit's 4th Annual Neighborhoods Day.
Neighborhoods Day will be held Saturday, August 7, 2010, with more than 100 events spread across the city. Events will begin at dawn and conclude at the ARISE Detroit! Renewing the Village Celebration in Hart Plaza with the release of the new song, “The Great New Detroit Renaissance.”
Some events include:
-The Detroit Tiger Hometown Baseball Championships, featuring more than 600 boys and girls playing games at Jayne Field in Detroit
-Cultural Institute Tours of the Detroit Institute of Arts, Museum of African-American History, Detroit Public Libraries and Detroit Science Center
-Construction of a new home by volunteers Habitat for Humanity
-Demolition of vacant homes by the Motor City Blight Busters with help from volunteers from the Detroit Media Partnership.
-Construction of a new playground for city children by the YMCA
-Identification and removal of invasive plants from the forest on Detroit’s historic
-Belle Isle Park by the friends of Belle Isle
-Exciting parades
-Library and education events
-Youth activities
-Beautification projects
-Senior citizen events
To participate or for more information on Neighborhoods Day click here.
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Helping Hardest-Hit Homeowners Fund
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
If you are at risk of losing your home to foreclosure there is MONEY available to help you stay in your home.
Michigan is one of five states selected to receive $154.5 million in federal funds. The Helping Hardest-Hit Homeowners Fund is designed to help 17,000 homeowners in Michigan avoid foreclosure.
To be eligible for the fund, homeowners must be receiving unemployment compensation, have fallen behind on mortgage payments due to a temporary layoff or medical emergency or can no longer afford mortgage payments due to low household income.
The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) will begin accepting applications from mortgage service providers Monday, July 12.
Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. So, it's important to contact your mortgage service provider immediately to determine if you qualify for the program!!!
For more information on the Helping Hardest-Hit Homeowners Fund call 866-946-7432 or click here.
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Celebrating the Grand Opening of Fountain Bistro
Friday, July 02, 2010
City Council President Charles Pugh was among the many
community leaders, Campus Martius Park regulars, and employees from
nearby businesses who celebrated the grand opening of Fountain Bistro at
Campus Martius Park.
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A Visit to the Detroit Service Learning Academy
Thursday, July 01, 2010
8th graders at Detroit Service
Learning Academy invited City Council President Charles Pugh to their
school to tell him about their service learning project. They developed a
plan to upgrade a park in their neighborhood.
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Council Meets on Mass Transit
Friday, February 12, 2010
The City of Detroit and its surrounding neighbors have been discussing the prospect of mass transit in our region for many years. Today, the Detroit City Council convened a Committee of the Whole to determine where the city stands in constructing this long awaited system of transportation.
This project has included many participants and stakeholders, each playing an integral role in the development of mass transit. Representatives from the local, regional, state, and federal level came before the council to provide information on some necessary steps that will make mass transit a reality in Detroit.
Congresswoman Kilpatrick began the series of testimonies by notifying the council of the resources she has been able to provide as a member of the House Appropriations Committee. Kilpatrick also reiterated her promise of ensuring that Detroit joins every other major metropolitan area that provides mass transit. She also informed members of President Obama’s commitment to light rail and she stated that she plans on working with the President, Secretary LaHood, and staff to make sure Detroit is included.
Group Executive Charlie Beckham and CFO Norm White spoke to the council on behalf of the administration. The administration claims to be carefully reviewing the details of a regional authority, in hopes of protecting the interest of the citizens of Detroit. White stated that they have reached a sound agreement with all other parties and will be supplying the council with this information as it is solidified.
The leader of the Detroit Delegation in Lansing, Rep. Bert Johnson, also appeared at the meeting to give an update on the transit legislation in Lansing. Johnson stated that although this issue has been taken up 24 times, he believes that this attempt at mass transit will be successful. Right now, Lansing legislators are participating in work groups around this very issue.
Lastly, Mr. Swatosh, representing the Detroit Mass Transit Authority, spoke briefly on the region’s plans and commitment to providing citizens with this necessary service. His prospective encourages the regional transit authority to be economically and socially beneficial for the metropolitan region as a whole.
In the coming weeks, there will be several conversations on this issue. The administration mentioned a meeting on Feb. 16th, Rep. Johnson spoke of a meeting he’s hosting on the 23rd, and the Congresswoman spoke about a session on the 26th. It appears that mass transit is picking up speed.
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A Seamless Transition
Monday, January 18, 2010
After months of campaigning and preparation, The Detroit News Headline read, "Council Debut Goes Without Hitch," as the new Detroit City Council completed its first formal session.
Followed by a prayer from the Reverend Dr. Charles G. Adams, Pastor of Hartford Memorial Baptist Church, President Pugh called his first formal session to order. Pugh states "I have an amazing team, who has worked diligently to ensure that I was ready to lead Day one," and it showed. There were no major gaffes in Pugh's first meeting as Council President. Pugh even felt comfortable enough to add his own personal flair to the meeting with a rare comical moment, suggesting that the council pay cuts not take effect until 2013.
Nevertheless, the council's first formal session did not go without disagreement. In a 5-4 vote, Council President Pro Tem Brown lost his bid to serve on the Police and Fire Pension Board. However, soon thereafter, the council unanimously voted to appoint Council member Brenda Jones to that seat. This signified the council ability to reach a consensus, even after an initial difference of opinion. This is a real change from the past. Brown says of his failed candidacy, "I don't see this as any split among the members. This is how the process works."
Additionally, the council passed a resolution to name the council auditorium after President Emerita Erma Henderson, who passed a short time ago. They also voted to place Council member Jenkins on the General Pension Board.
May the professionalism and efficiency of this first formal session be a hopeful sign of things to come.
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