I won’t delve into the article too much because I think everyone should take the time to read it. On the other hand; I will say this. Although I still stand by my previous opinions of “Realty TV”, I do agree with certain points of the article. In the article Kareem states, “Daily life skews our perception, but art holds up a mirror of behavior that allows us to see ourselves clearly and act on it”. There have been several times that I’ve watched a “Reality” show and said, “I would never act like or do that” only to reflect and come to the realization that I have. While, I hadn’t gone to the extreme of some of these women; I have showed my tail in public before only to wake up the next day regretful. I had challenged myself on the image or persona I display to the world, the words I choose to use, and how I treat others. All of this reflection came just after watching “Reality” episodes that embodied the word “Ratchet”. Two of the hardest things in life to do are 1. Look at the man in the mirror and 2. Not throwing stones especially when you’re living in a glass house. It’s real easy for viewers to sit at home on a comfy couch and throw daggers. For some, it’s easier than changing the channel or turning off the TV completely. It’s not a dirty little secret.  Americans love dramas and watching train wrecks.  Maybe it’s to escape from our own lives that might not be as public but in “Reality” are not too far off.

I do respect the honesty of Kareem’s’ article. He understands that he could possibly receive backlash for his opinions. However, he’s very open on his views on “Reality TV” in Society. He even explores the relationship between Real Housewives and the Feminism movement which turns out to be a very interesting assessment. Maybe, not one to be made in a room Full of women!

Jim Morrison, former poet and Lead singer of the Doors, once said; “Whoever controls the media, controls the mind”. While I agree with that comment to some point, Kareem makes a good point as well. Kareem argues, “It (Reality TV) is a glitzy window into mainstream values, if not mainstream lifestyle. It offers more insight into American consciousness than most TV script dramas. We just have to be willing to see ourselves in it”.

So the debate begins or for many continues. Does “Reality TV” reflect society or does society reflect “Reality TV”?! Well read the article and get the debate started. Btw, I thank Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for provoking thought, for being honesty and for giving us a great read!

-N. Warren

Detroitfly.com List of the Top 5 “Most Infamous Real Housewives”

Who’s on your list?

1. NeNe Leaks- Real Housewives of Atlanta

Known for speaking her mind and her “Bigger than Life” Persona. Nene is also “On the Come up” with a budding acting career and engagement to her Ex-Husband, Greg.

2. Teresa Guidice- Real Housewives of New Jersey

Known for her “Over the top” sense of fashion but never afraid to speak her mind or toss a table if she has to.

3. Sheree Whitfield- Real Housewives of Atlanta

Known for “Trying” to keep it Elegant and Sophisticated at all times but mostly her reputation for flossing and trying to Keep up with the Joneses”

4. Bethenny Frankell- Real Housewives of New York

Known for speaking her mind, this former RHONY proved to everyone that there’s life after reality. Bethenny made a reportedly 200 Million off her company Skinny Girl Cocktails. A venture fans watched grow on the show.

5. Gretchen Rossi- Real Housewives of Orange County

known for being the “Life of the Party”, bubbly one and Gold Digger. Gretchen was the center of attention when she first joined the RHWOC not only for her looks but because she was dating a man old enough to be her father and dying of cancer.

Links to “Real Housewives” Article and DFly Feature  Below:

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar “How Real Housewives have Made America Better”

Link to Huffingtonpost.com article Below:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/kareem-abduljabbar/the-real-housewives_b_3132360.html?utm_hp_ref=entertainment&ir=Entertainment

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar “On the Shoulders of Giants”

Link to Detroitfly.com article Below:

http://thedetroitfly.com/2011/06/on-the-shoulders-of-giants-2/

(All Photos Courtesy Of)

Photo of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (Associated Press)

Both Photos of Teressa Guidice (Bravo TV)

Photo of NeNe Leaks (Straightfromthea.com

Photo of Bethenny Frankell (Bethenny Frankell/Cnn.com)

Photo of Sheree Whitfield (Theybf.com)

Photo of Gretchen Rossi (Style.com)

Featured Photo (Business2community.com)

From April 19^th-28^th; the best restaurants, bistros, and bars are opening up their doors to Metro Detroiters offering great food at great prices! It gives “Foodies”, like myself, a chance to eat, drink, and be merry while possibly discovering a new Detroit Gem! So go and enjoy this weather while supporting all of the wonderful restaurants the City has to Offer!!!

-N.Warren

For more info on Detroit Restaurant Week

Click on Links below for Your Guide to the Best Restaurants and Deals in Detroit!

D.R.W-Main Site

www.Detroitrestaurantweek.com

D.R.W-Menus

http://www.freep.com/article/20130412/ENT08/304120184/Restaurant-Detroit-Week-Rector-dining

D.R.W-Reservations

http://www.opentable.com/promo.aspx?pid=446&m=38

(Photos Courtesy of)

Feature Photo (Facebook.com/StreetEatzz

Photo #1 (Metroparent.com)

Photo #2 (Joe Hakim/Freep.com)

The phone rings. Hesitant to answer, due to the unrecognizable number, I pick the phone up anyway following a prompting from that gnawing voice from within. It was my friend, well actually good friend, whose voice carried on a wave of frustration, fear, and fatigue. He informed me that he was coming home. He was returning to Detroit after moving to Atlanta, Georgia almost seven years ago. I am a loyal Detroiter but I found myself asking why? Why leave a thriving city like Atlanta to come to a place draped in depression?  Is what you’re going through that bad? I continued to bombard him with questions looking for some revelations to why he made this, probably abrupt, decision. Well, not to put my friends business in the streets, but his situation was pretty crucial. Here was a grown man who worked in the Broadcast and entertainment industry after doing a short stint in the army. He recently divorced and was trying to provide for a child from the marriage. He lost his job, place to live, and was dealing with issues from his past that were recently resurrected. It was too much for me to hear so I know it was a lot for him to handle. I sat ear glued to the phone in disbelief and unable to find any words I thought were remotely comforting. I understood; I got it. I just wanted to warn him to what he was possibly coming home to.

He saw Detroit as a comfort zone, a place where family, friends, and a support system was. I saw Detroit, for him, as a place where familiarity could become a crutch rather than a boost of ambition. In no way or shape am I downing my city, discouraging migration to Detroit, or anything like that. For one, I work for this site; a site all about the positive aspects Detroit has to offer. For 2, I have had a few great opportunities to leave the city for my own career advancement but stayed out of obligation to my city and the people that I would leave behind. To tell the truth I know plenty of successful people from Detroit but how many have returned to make an effective change. I was boggled but curious, so I asked my friend if I could interview him and get a idea on how it was to return home. It was a very interesting conversation and it helped me to get some perspective on the overall mental and physical journey it took for my friend. Simultaneously, I realized that there were 2 journeys being told. This was a intimate look at a man and a city hoping for a renaissance.

This is what he had to say,

Me: So did you fly or drive? And how long did it take?

Friend: Well I took the Grey Hound from Atlanta to North Carolina. Then we drove a car from NC to Detroit.

Me: Whose we?

Friend: Oh, I’m sorry; my brother and I. Total, it was over a 12 hour ride. It did give me a lot of time to think though.

Me: About what?

Friend: Contemplating on rather this was the right move or not because all that I heard from my friends and family and the stuff in the media.

Me: Like what?

The lack of police presence, schools closing, Detroit being broke, the job situation, etc.

Me: Not every major city is doing as bad as Detroit but there are problems in every city. So, what’s the difference with Detroit?

Friend: Yeah, but its bad here. There’s a new wave of violence coming over this “mutha*$!@a”. On top of that; look at the state of Detroit’s politics, the Kwame situation, the City Council, schools and parks closing; it’s sad to say but it seems like every aspect of this city is tainted.

Me: So, your mind was mostly on the things that you heard or were expecting to encounter?

Friend: Kind of, I thought about the state of the city, how I was going to handle the change, would the change be overwhelming for me since I’ve been gone so long. Like I said; while I was away I was always receiving phone calls and emails chronicling all the bad news from Detroit. Now, Detroit has always been “Detroit “if you get my drift. It’s been pretty well know that we breed a different type of folk here. However what hurts me most are the scowls you get from people in different places when you travel and tell them you’re from Detroit.

Me: What’s so hurtful?

Friend: The fact that the information that the majority of them are getting is from a news source and not because they’ve actually visited the city. They think you can’t walk down the street without getting robbed or killed. They look at you like you came from a hell whole, they judge you, they have a sense of fear, and they put a guard up with you. It seems that a lot of people are happy to see the city in the state that it’s and that’s why it hurts when you hear a Detroiter in the national news. It kind of makes what they were saying or assuming right.

Me: It hurts when they talk about your home town!

Mike: Yeah, but there were some things that it hurt me to hear but I had agree with.

Me: Like what?

Mike: Like…, Kwame stories.  The country know s about the “Hip-Hop” Mayor taking bribes. So, when someone who hears or knows you’re from Detroit and they come up to you ask, “What’s going on with your mayor?” or makes a negative comment; you kind of have to agree, facts are facts.

Me: So how long have you officially been back?

Friend: A couple of months.

Me: What changes, if any, have you noticed ?

Friend: I sense a heap of depression and downhill vibes vaporizing off the city. It seems like every other house or block is abandoned. Every other school is closed. It seems that no employers are really hiring. It seems that everyone is struggling.

Me: Besides the weather, this must be a major change from Atlanta?

Friend: Yes, major changes. I miss the country, and parts outside the city but anytime you’ve been gone as long as I have there’s always an adjustment period. But, I do feel like I have to walk on glass around here, like someone can blow up at any minute. It’s sad! Before I left the city had a spirit. I don’t feel any positive spirit here like I used to.

Me: Is there any hope for Detroit?

Friend: Yeah, if the 40 and under crowd gets involved, they have to get into the politics. There aren’t a lot of venues for creativity around here but I do see a lot of boom in the Mid-town area. People have to get into the neighborhoods from the churches and pastors to local business owners. Hate to say it but, it really does take a village. For some of our citizens, there’s no hope. You would have to do an “in-home” makeover. We would have to makeover the kids and the parents’ mentalities about themselves and the city. It’s sad seeing the state of Detroiters from before the 70’s to now.

Me: So where do we begin?

Friend: It begins with individual change. We can’t help others unless we are where we need to be. It begins with changing our attitudes not only about or selves but our city. We should use the negativity from others as a motivation to rebuild the city. We have people who made it but don’t come back to help those left behind. The ones left behind have little to no hope. Let’s walk this road to redemption strongly and positively

Me: What drives you to stay in the City of Detroit?

Friend: Overcoming a challenge, trying to prove that not everyone from our city is a failure. There are great success stories from Detroit.

Me: And you love the city too?

Friend: Yeah of course, or I wouldn’t be here.

Me: Do you think that you can successfully raise a happy and healthy family in Detroit?

Friend: Not unless you have had a good job so you can afford to live the way you and your family see fit. I know someone who lives on the east-side but they take their kids to warren to go to school. The school system is bad here. It’s frustrating that I have to go outside the city to give my kids a good education. Parks are closing and filled with trash and over grown grass so where can my kids run freely and play besides the streets and my backyard. Besides the eastern market, how many fresh fruit and veggie markets are in the city?

Me: What would you day to try can convince someone to come back

Friend: Honestly, right now, I’m going to have to dig deep for that answer. I think if you come in with a real solid business idea and money you can come in to Detroit and really take over.  So, from a business stand point, you can buy cheap. It’s a good time now because the city’s definitely going to make a comeback and you want to get in while you can.

Me: Dan Gilbert just bought 16 buildings in the downtown area!

Friend: Yeah, he knows something we don’t know! You know what? Let’s talk again in two months.

Me: You’re right, that should be interesting, I mean the rather your opinion of the city will change at all? Also, a lot can happen to the state of the city by then.

Friend: I doubt it but you never know!

A little over a month ago I had this conversation with my friend. A month before an Emergency Manager was appointed over the city and before the guilty verdict was handed down in the Kwame Kilpatrick corruption case. Now, I might not agree with all of my friends views but we do agree that major changes need to happen in Detroit; socially and politically. A lot can happen in the next few months but what is next to come for our city?

At one point in this city’s history; there was a great migration to the north from the south with people looking for good jobs and a better way of life. Well, in the past 10 years there has been a reverse migration with those leaving to the southern states with the same hopes our predecessors. However, for those who are still here; I pray those who do want better for the city will come together with “Realistic” and probable solutions. We don’t need dreamers but doers and when the dreamers get to doing, there’s no telling what this city will be.

I pray that within the next few years; the excitement, hope and promise that is taking over the mid-town and Downtown Detroit areas will trickle to the West, North, South-sides and all over Metropolitan Detroit. Honestly, it’s going to take us all; White, Black, Arabic, Hispanic and people of all backgrounds to come together to restore this city to its former glory. So let us Live, Work, and Play in Detroit because if we don’t, then who?! Whether it was the Riots in the 60’s or an appointment of an Emergency Manger; like my friend, Detroit stood resilient through it all because we are strong and Nothing Stops Detroit!!

-N.Warren

Check out a few articles below about all of the Positive changes that have recently happened in the City of Detroit:

• Historic “Whitney Building” Restoration Project

http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2013/03/28/reconstruction-begins-on-detroits-whitney-building/

• Detroit Makes Forbes Top 15 List of ”City’s with an Emerging Downtown”

http://www.myfoxdetroit.com/story/21807614/forbes

http://www.forbes.com/pictures/mhj45eddgl/detroit-mich/

(ALL Photos courtesy of: Thedetroitfly.com)

]]> http://thedetroitfly.com/2013/03/a-journey-home-for-me-and-my-city/feed/ 0 http://thedetroitfly.com/2013/03/a-journey-home-for-me-and-my-city/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/JimmyDiesel/~3/R7hLpaA7ONk/ http://thedetroitfly.com/2013/01/presidential-inauguration-change-for-our-nation-hope-for-detroit/#comments Tue, 22 Jan 2013 21:53:33 +0000 RachelN. http://thedetroitfly.com/?p=1707

“America’s possibilities are limitless. For we possess all the qualities that this world without boundaries demands: youth and drive; diversity and openness; an endless capacity for risk and a gift for reinvention. My fellow Americans, we are made for this moment, and we will seize it- so long as we seize it together.” – (Quote from President Barack Obama Inauguration Speech)

Limitless possibilities; what a compelling and invigorating phrase which, for me, resonated as soon as the words fell from President Obama’s lips during his Inauguration Speech on Monday. Yesterday, the country watched the 57^th Inauguration of
the President of the United States while; celebrating, Civil Rights leader, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s birthday.

What an historic day as the nation remembered the dreams of a man almost 50 years ago and the 2^nd Inauguration and swearing in of this country’s “First Black President”. Unfortunately, for many, the glory of the day was side swiped with many frustrated Americans who wanted to hear a clear and direct plan of the Presidents next agenda for this country.

Understandably so, the average American is frustrated with the state of the country and is looking for the same hope and change promised during Presidents Obama first term. Media outlets couldn’t wait to delve into and scrutinize the President’s speech for any flaws or impervious goals set for the next 4 years. However, according to the many facebook and twitter boards I read, many Americans understand that the road to recovery for this nation will not be amended overnight. The economy, increasing deficit, and unemployment rates were unavoidable and exorbitant burdens inherited by the President. I think we all understand that 4 years isn’t enough to heal a country wounded by unprincipled banks, corporate greed and protected fraternity clubs of the wealthy. Despite the pundits and naysayers; I think President Obama gave everyone a glimpse of hope; especially Detroiters. The Potus gave Detroit a “shout out” when speaking on the recent gun violence around the country including the horrific shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary this past December.

During the Inauguration speech the President stated, “Our journey is not complete till all our children, from the streets of Detroit to the hills of Appalachia to the quiet lanes of Newton, know that they are cared for, and cherished, and always safe from harm.”

It was reported that in Detroit, during the 2012 year, there were 411 homicide deaths, a 10% increase from the year before. It’s the highest level in the city in nearly 20 years. Detroit Police Commission Chair, Rev. Jerome Warfield, in a recent interview with CBS Detroit stated, “People are leaving the city of Detroit because they feel it’s not safe. And so it’s costing the city of Detroit a great deal”

Gun violence isn’t just a Detroit issue. Recently the city of Chicago made headlines around the country for its increase in gun violence with a reported 532 people murdered in 2012. The president wasn’t just speaking to Detroiters of Chicagoans, he was conveying to the country, you are not forgotten, and you’re not alone.

Well, Mr. President, I believe that country heard you yesterday and that your words didn’t fall on death ears. I believe that we have to return to the values this country once cherished like family, community, and faith. This is a journey that we will have to take together while forming an unbreakable chain.  Mr. President you said it best during the culmination of the speech when you stated,

“You and I, as citizens, have the obligation to shape the debates of our time- not only with the votes we cast, but with the voices we lift in defense of our most ancient values and enduring ideals. Let each of us now embrace, with solemn duty and awesome joy, what is our lasting birthright. With common effort and common purpose with passion and dedication, let us answer the call of history, and carry into an uncertain future that precious light of freedom.”

-N.Warren

Link to Full Text of  The Inauguration Speech and Video:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/president-obamas-second-inaugural-address-transcript/2013/01/21/f148d234-63d6-11e2-85f5-a8a9228e55e7_story.html

(Photos Courtesouy of)

Featured Image/Photo #4 -amplifyyourvoice.org

Photo #1 – abcnews.com

Photo #2 – Bostonherald.com (AP)

Photo #3 – money.cnn.com

Photo #5 – washingtonpost.com

Singer/Actress Delloreese Patricia Early, better known as Della Reese, was born in the historic Black Bottom neighborhood of Detroit, Michigan in 1931. Reese, who is of Native American (Cherokee) and African American decent, started singing in church at the age of 5 performing and acting in various groups throughout Detroit. By the age of 13 years old, Ms Reese was chosen to sing in the Mahalia Jackson Gospel Group which must have been a true honor for an avid Gospel fan like herself. By 15 years of age Della, an honor student, graduated from the esteemed Case Technical High school where she attended with now famed actress Ellen Burstyn. Reese also attended Wayne State University while forming her own Gospel Group, the Meditation Singers, who became the first gospel group to headline Las Vegas nightclubs. Unfortunately, Ms. Reese had to drop out of WSU to help support her family and both ailing parents. Della continued performing in clubs in Detroit where she adopt the stage name of Della Reese, a slightly veered form of her first name. However, fame didn’t come quick for Ms. Reese as she balanced performing on stage while working several jobs such as a receptionist, truck driver, and even an elevator operator but that wouldn’t last for long.

Ms. Reese got her “Big Break” after entering a talent contest at the Flame Show bar in Detroit. Della won a week of the spotlight singing at the historic bar but encores from the crowds lead to an eight-week stay. In 1953, Ms Reese would sign a recording contract with Jubilee records where she would create six albums. Between “1937-59”, Della would release several songs but would not reach Billboard success until 1957 with her Top 20 Pop Chart hit entitled “And That Reminds Me”. In 1959, Della would get a # 2 spot on the Pop Charts with “Don’t you know” which was recorded on her new label RCA. During the 1960s all the way through the 90’s, Mrs. Reese would continue to record Gospel and Jazz albums even earning her self 3 Grammy nominations. She would receive 1 for her 1960 self titled album “Della” and 2 in the Gospel album category. Singing isn’t Ms Reeses only gift. In 1960, Reese was a model for AMI Continental Jukebox featured in Ebony Magazine. In 1969 Mrs. Reese transitioned into acting with a variety show canceled just after one season and while acting as a game show panelist in the 1970’s. However, Della was just getting started.

In 1970 Mrs. Reese got the opportunity to guest host on the Tonight show with Johnny Carson making her the first black woman to do so. Ms Reese would continue to make appearances and reoccurring roles on television shows, series, and classic movies such as the Mod Squad, A-team, Sanford and Son, Harlem Nights, and Chico and the man.

Ironically, her most infamous role would be as “Tess”; a loving and strong, guardian angle on the popular sitcom “Touched by an Angle” from 1994-2003. The show lasted for 9 seasons with 211 episodes most, which are still in syndication today.

In a November 2012 Mrs. Reese did an interview with the Suntimes.com where Reese stated, “I watch the shows now. I never watched when they were first on and the network is lucky. I would have asked for twice as much money! That show was good.”

The 81yr Ms Reese is showing she still has the vocals in her latest film which recently debuted on the GMC Channel called “Christmas Angel”. The heartfelt holiday film showed Mrs. Reese could still hold her own in Hollywood with the supporting cast of such esteemed actors as Teri Polo, Kevin Sorbo, and Tamera Mowry-Housely.

Mrs. Reese has a list of Singing and Acting accolades including being immortalized into the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1994, with her name and that iconic brass star embedded into the infamous boulevard sidewalk. From 1996-2002, Della would repediately win the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for Touched by An Angel. The awards continue with 2 Emmy awards, a golden globe, a Grammy award in 1999 and an Annie Award for outstanding voice acting by a female performer in an animate serious. Ms Reese as worked on such animated series as “A Pup Named Scooby Doo” and the movie “Dinosaur” proving that this woman from the Black Bottom of Detroit is truly multi-talented.

In 2002, after a diagnosis of type-2 diabetes, Mrs. Reese would use her voice in a different way becoming a spokesperson for the American Diabetes Association. In 2005, Mrs. Reese would receive one of the coolest acknowledgments of all an invitation to Oprah Winfrey Legends ball where she was honored with 25 other notable black women including Coretta Scott King, Diana Ross and Tina Turner. In 2010, Reese became an ordained minister adding the title of Reverend and Dr. to her name. The Rev. Dr. Reese Lett, Lett is her married name, is the founder and Minister at the Understanding Principles for Better Living Church in Los Angeles, California.

The Detroitfly.com staff wants to honors and thank Mrs. Reese for her, first of all,  sharing her voice and love of Jazz and Gospel with the world. Secondly, we thank her for representing women in a positive and strong light while opening doors for woman and blacks everywhere. We are proud to say that Mrs. Delloreese Patricia Early, know to the world as Della Reese, is Detroit Born and Bred!!!

-N.Warren

(For more information of the Life and Career of Della Reese, Check out the links below!)

www.DellaReese.com

www.facebook.com/DellaReesePraise

www.upchurch.org/Founder.htm

(Classic Videos of the “Great Della Reese” Below!!!)

Della Rees-Lonelyville

Della Reese-Someday

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8EmoMV7Ijo

Della Reese-Hush (Somebody’s Calling My Name)

(Photos Courtesouy of)

Featured Image- richardskipper.blogspot.com

Photo # 1 – lipstickalley.com

Photo # 2 – musicstack.com

Photo #3 – Amazon.com

Photo #4 – www1.cineplex.com

Photo # 5 – eil.com

Photo # 6 – heartlandmusic.com

(The Detroifly.com staff would prefer to credit the Photographer. We will acredit  any photographer once identified in order to protect their photo. If your are a photographer or know the photographer of any pic above, please contact us!)

Lasers, lights and projectors filled the streets of the midtown area near downtown Detroit last Friday and Saturday as the DLECTRICITY Fest electrified the city. Brought to us by the DLECTRICITY Curatorial Committee,  DLECTRICITY highlighted nearly 35 local, national and international artists whose work  was lined up all along Woodward Ave displayed with the help of lights, laser and projectors.

DLECTRICITY  was apart of the Nuit Blanche events which were simultaneously held art and light festivals in New York and Paris making this truly an exclusive event. Starting from Woodward and Warren at the Charles H. Wright Museum to the original Electric Park and all the way to Comerica Park; both sides of the streets were filled with art lovers.

Light displays reminiscent of New York’s Time Square with life like virtual works of art dancing on screens made of window panes and building sides. Sidewalks were packed with people, shoulder to shoulder like sardines with all the diversity that Detroit had to offer. Impromptu conversations and dance sessions filled parking lots and in the hidden nooks that could be found. Woodward mirrored New Orleans Bourbon street as pedestrians walked freely with their drinks and snacks from local vendors. People moved from one gallery to another, one display to the next, finding something new around every corner.

One of my favorite spots was the Nmandi Gallery snuggled on 52. E. Warren and Woodward. The sound of a live jazz band and raspy singer bellowing Sade’s “Sweetest Taboo” lured you to its doors  with a looped video projection of sign language attracting bystanders like a moth to a flame. As you walk in, your eyes are seduced by the beautiful wood beams and city loft vibe. The gallery is featured the works of artist Vaguer Whitehead which can be summed up in one word; breathtaking. Portraits of landscapes seemed to be sketched effortlessly and some had you feeling like a true art afficionado as you stood with a bewildered stare, one hand on your chin, and one hand holding a glass a wine. Everyone having their own interpretations, feeling wise in their own right.

My overall favorite was the presentation by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and their live display of the Cirque de la Symphonies. I guess you can say it was Bach mixed with the Vegas Cirque du Soleil. A roped off section allowed those without tickets to watch the live performance inside the DSO, projected in what seemed to be  high definition on the side of the building. Fans leaving the tigers game that night, jumped out of there cars in the middle of Woodward to catch the last few minutes of this rare exhibit. Some sat in the provided chairs, others stood by in awe. Symphony music danced over the smoke erupting out of the city’s sewers, even galloping over the sirens from the ambulances rushing by. It was absolutely beautiful! For over a mile, citizens were introduced to restaurants, galleries,  shops and a part of Detroit that they never knew existed. Words, honestly can’t convey the lights,  the art, or the wonders of that night. It’s one of the things where you just had to be there.

This is how Detroit is supposed to be on a regular basis. Filled with arts, lights, people, and love. I cannot wait until next years event cause I know it will be bigger and better!!!

-N.Warren

For more information on the DLECTRICITY fest check out link below:
www.dlectricity.com

A special thanks to the DLECTRICITY Curatorial Committee and of the workers and sponsors behind such an amazing event!!!:

Produced by:
Midtown Detroit inc. & Detroit Gallery Week (Oct 5th-13th)

Sponsored by:
The Kresge Foundation
McGregor Fund
PNC Bank
The Erb Family Foundation
DTE Energy Detroit
Tom Delany – First American Title
The Applebaum Family Foundation
Fox 2 WJBK
WDET 101.9FM
Metrotimes
William Davidson Foundation
Shinola
The Kaufman Memorial Trust
Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan

Last night The Detroit Fly was lucky enough to attend an early screening of the upcoming movie Middle of Nowhere.  The gorgeous cast and intriguing preview sparked curiosity of what Writer & Director Ava Duvernay was about to share.  From beginning to end, there wasn’t a moment where I didn’t find myself entertained, thinking about what was to come, or realizing how deep this movie really is.

Ruby (Emayatzy Corinealdi) and Derrick (Omari Hardwick) are in a tough patch, but the reality of their situation doesn’t dim the light in the love bonds these two together.  This isn’t a typical love story or prison song, but more-so one of extreme courage and encouragement that gives the true definition of “holding it down”.  Derrick pushes Ruby to continue her aspirations of medical school and to focus on her life without him, while Ruby wants Derrick to understand her reasons for putting her education on hold so that she may give him the support that she knows he needs to survive his next several years in prison.  As I watched this husband and wife display their strength and dependence of each other in a way only those who have experienced this situation could relate to, I started to think about how this type of love was just displayed earlier today.

I started thinking: Are couples in Ruby and Derrick’s situation different from any other married couple in the country?  When we think about all of the men that are incarcerated with their wives, girlfriends, and ‘baby mommas’ at home waiting for their return,  those that have no real proximity to what they go through or the plight men carry in prison may throw a tinge of judgment in the air.  I’m not here to point fingers, but what I saw on the screen mirrored the same love and support that we praise and celebrate between our President and First Lady Obama.

Would you think to compare Barack Obama to a felon with gun charges landing an 8 year bid?  Does Michelle Obama seem like the type to put her all of her goals and aspirations on hold to wait by a phone all day just to here her husband’s prison tales and memories of happier days?  The image doesn’t quite seem fitting at first, but what I saw in Middle of Nowhere is the reflection of the same love and support that Barack and Michelle Obama share in what makes their marriage the success that we see on our televisions.  So what’s different?

I’m not going to stroll completely down a road paved with cliches of how love conquers all things, quite frankly neither does this film.  What stood out most for me was through the nay-saying and adversities, the loyalty and encouragement shared in this cast of characters made me wonder how many Barack and Michelle’s do we still actually have in our country?  The pressures, though completely different in dynamic and nature, require the same amount of support and determination from your loved ones to get through. Whether reforming a nation or reforming a state of mind to rise above, the outcome of a better future is present in both cases.

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First Lady Michelle Obama gave a riveting speech at the Democratic National Convention on Tuesday Night but her speech wasn’t only thing that had people talking. Viewers were in awe of the First Lady but they were  captivated by the beautiful dress that equally caught the nations attention. What people may not know is that the “now infamous” Convention dress was designed by no other than Detroits own Tracy Reese. Reese, a graduate from Detroit’s Cass Tech High School, first met Mrs. Obama on the 2008 Campaign trail but her chances to actually design for the First Lady was slim. Reese was entered into a pool with several other designers in hopes of winning the Convention bid. Reese and her design were chosen, becoming apart of political and fashion history.

The announcement of the First Lady to the DNC stage brought a roar from the crowd but ohhh’s and awww’s from all who laid their eyes upon the sharply dressed Mom-and-Chief. The First Lady’s beautiful skin tone was perfectly accentuated by the pink-ish hue of the dress which, I’m sure was even more beautiful in HDtv. Mrs. Obama stunned all in a sleeve-less, flatteringly, form-fittng, knee-lentgh, silk, pink and gray dress. Reese told the “Today Show” on a recent visit that the dress, just under $500.oo, will be available to the masses soon. This may be the first time that you’ve heard of Tracy Reese but shes definately not new to the fashion world. She attened the acclaimed Parsons School of Design and has worked with esteemed fashion houses such as of Perry Ellis. Her clothing lines , Tracy Reese and “Plenty” by Tracy Reese, are now taking over  the fashion world with affordable and pricy attire which can be found on her personal website to high end stores such as Nordstroms and boutiques all over Europe. TheDetroitFly tips our hat to Ms. Reese for showing the world that Detroit is full of artistic and talented people. Our fashion sence is more than flashy clothes and pink Gators. We do have class and style and we are proud that Tracy Reese was Detroit Born and Bred. For more info on the Life of Tracy Reese and where you can get her clothes, check out the Links Below!!!

-N.Warren

For more info on Tracy Reese Clothing Lines:

http://www.tracyreese.com/

Tracy Reese Bio:

http://tracyreese.com/c-35-designer-bio.aspx

Link to Today Show Interview:

http://thelook.today.com/_news/2012/09/06/13703094-tracy-reese-michelle-obamas-dnc-dress-will-hit-shelves?lite

(Photos Courtesy of:)

Tracy Reese Headshot (Tracyreese.com)

Featured Image By (Jae C. Hong / Associated Press / September 5, 2012)

In Post Photot (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)

Don’t call it a comeback…

Detroit, MI rang in as a primary point in this year’s Democratic National Convention.  Politicians from all walks of life, surrogates, and news correspondents have all recognized Detroit, MI as one of the most influential cities in our country’s future.  Serving as the heartbeat of industry, the importance of Detroit’s economy will continue throughout the presidential race.  Democrats have reminded us of the important decision Barack Obama made in the General Motors Bailout.  Proving true in his prediction  of importance, General Motors is currently the number one auto maker.  Reminiscent of Ted Kennedy’s address on the Republican Candidate, David Foster, former head of United Steelworkers District 11, passionately spoke of his experience working for GS Steel and his role in producing the steel used in the automobiles produced in Detroit.  He reminds us of the polarized view Republican Candidate Mitt Romney expresses, but more importantly reminds us that Detroit is still a city to be preserved, uplifted, and a running engine of our countries livelihood.

*Photo Courtesy of http://www.DemConvention.com

(Photo Credited to: Crainsdetroit.com/Detroit Institute of Arts)

A “Cultural Living Room”.  Well, that’s how the organizers from Detroit Institute of Arts are describing their new project which will be set up in the Midtown district near Downtown Detroit. Through grants from the National Endowment for the Arts and other organizations; the D.I.A plans on bringing new life to the Midtown area and its new bustling community. The D.I.A will open it’s Kresge Court inner Courtyard to allow all who want to relax in a living room setting while listening to some good music, poetry or even lectures. Yes, that’s right, a living room setting fully stocked with comfy couches, chairs, tables and even Free-Wifi. The D.I.A  is doing this in hopes of creating a setting where the Midtown community or all Detroiters can come together, network, or just enjoy the historic Midtown scene. For more information on the ” Cultural Living Room”, check out the link below to view the complete article from CrainsDetroit.com’s. It’s always great to hear positive things about the city since we’re usually overwhelmed by the negative. So once again kudos to the D.I.A and there dedication to the arts, the people and the city of Detroit.

-N.Warren

Crainsdetroit.com Article:

Creating a Midtown Livingroom, Written By: Sherri Welch

http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20120617/FREE/306179961

(Feature Photo Credited to: Americanjr.com)