There are comic book characters with traits like real human mental and physical health conditions as traits, but not many use disabilities, disorders or gender identity as super powers. A Detroit publishing company’s new comic, The Xtras: Forces of Courage and Change, uses heroes to help reduce society’s stigmas. The idea by Eunice Howard inspired […]
When local residents hear the phrase “Detroit versus everybody” a few things might come to mind. One could be the famed song by Detroit rappers and singers like Eminem, Big Sean and Dej Loaf. Another might be the t-shirt brand started in the city. But “Detroit versus everybody” could also describe the mentality of those […]
Something was calling Jay Rayford back to the city after living in different states for several years. Even with a professional job in electrical engineering, he had to return home. Social Sushi – a pop-up that brought sushi to various social and networking events – was Rayford’s gift to Detroit. The business went on to […]
It’s 10 a.m. on a Monday in the New Center area of Detroit. Woodward Avenue is nearly clear in the block that crosses West Grand Boulevard, and many of the businesses have yet to open. In the midst of the newer shops – some selling Muslim hijabs, others selling clothing or food – there is […]
A spiritual calling led Carla Banks-Markham and her family to form what she regards as a ministry to the community. Baker’s Bible & Bookstore, located at 10200 Grand River Ave., is a staple neighborhood business near Livernois Avenue and I-96. One of dozens of bookstores that help form a landscape of thousands of Detroit small […]
These days Chip Rohde finds himself a little busier than usual. As spokesperson for the Rivertown Detroit Association, his job is keeping residents and businesses in neighborhoods adjacent to the city’s popular waterfront excited about investments, events and attractions there. While downtown areas, including what Rohde calls the “sliver on the river,” continue attracting revitalization, […]
The best way to see a florist’s work is on display. At Lashee Floral and Events, located on the New Center One Building’s main level at 3031 W. Grand Blvd., the colorful arrangements and gift packages are some of the first items that get attention. “Walking traffic is what I have, so I’m more visible […]
Chris Chae might not live in West Village, but he is a faithful community servant there. He volunteers at the nearby soup kitchen and offers scholarships to local teens graduating high school. He sees giving back to the neighborhood that supports his store, Kimbrough Cleaners, as a special obligation. The store, located at 1815 Van […]
At 8424 W. McNichols Road is a color lifetime Detroiter Angelica Bright closely identifies with her hopes for the business she owns. The orange boutique, 2 Bright is a force of energy, inside and out, with clothing and accessories throughout the store’s small space. Bright, 47, chose the color because of its vibrancy and because […]
At the intersection of Outer Drive and Burt Road, a small stretch of land sports church pews and large, metal flowers with a banner urging, “Pray Here! Watch what God will do.” More inspiring and decorative than surroundings of the average repair shop, the display marks the location of a Brightmoor-area garage that prides itself […]