Thursday, August 31, 2017

EMU Football Home Opener Friday September 1 Versus North Carolina Charlotte at "The Factory."


Photo Purple Walrus Press.

By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

EMU football is upon us as our Eagles of Eastern Michigan University take on the North Carolina Charlotte 49ers at Rynearson Stadium (The Factory) here in Ypsilanti on Friday September 1. Kick off is at 6:30 pm. The game will played under new lights at "The Factory."

Last season EMU beat Charlotte in North Carolina at Jerry Richardson Stadium by a score of 37 - 19 on September 17, 2016. The victory set the tone for last years excellent season as EMU ended the year at 7-5 and played in its first Bowl Game in 25 years.

Keep an eye on Eastern Michigan Quarterback Brogan Roback during Friday's home opener. This guy is the real deal. In four seasons at EMU Roback has thrown for 5,463 yards and 36 touchdowns. Last season Roback showed poise and strong leadership skills as he guided Eastern to the Bahamas Bowl.

Also watch for EMU running back Shaq Vann. Vann had to miss most of last year with an injury, but he will be EMU's main back this year as he is back to full strength. In 2015 Vann accounted for 850 yards and six touchdowns.

Wednesday, August 30, 2017

Cross Street Block Party: EMU Back to School Edition! September 7 Ypsilanti.

By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Photo Purple Walrus Press.

School will soon be back in session at Eastern Michigan University (my alma mater) and EMU students are being welcomed back to town and campus in fun fashion. Check out Cross Street Block Party: Back to School Edition! The event will take place Thursday, September 7 from 8 pm to 11 pm. The event is being hosted by Friends Closet, Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea Ypsi, The Wurst Bar, Tower Inn Cafe and Insomnia Cookies

These Ypsi business's will be teaming up and bringing you a fun filled evening of music, outdoor grilling and fantastic drink specials. Your first Thursday back in town will be a blast.

All are welcome, not just EMU students.Bring your friends and family, even your pets! This according to Eastern Michigan University Campus Life EMU Student Government.

See you there!

Tuesday, August 29, 2017

Parola Perspective: Nothing American about Trump and his supporters.

By Brooks Parola. Purple Walrus Press.

Folks, there is NOTHING American about Trump and his supporters. True Americans realize that a founding principal of what it means to be American, is the concept that you can come from some place else, and become an American by embracing a set of shared values, like freedom, equality, and justice for ALL.
By refusing to condemn the alt-right, and white supremacy, he's embraced the most ignorant, and unpatriotic segment of our society...no wonder they go around waving confederate and nazi flags; they are NOT American.

Monday, August 28, 2017

Parola Perspective: Facism CAN Happen Here.

Brooks Parola. Purple Walrus Press.

Facism CAN happen here, and we MUST be vigilant. We must also be sure to resist NON-violently! The far right is violent folks, because they have gained little through the democratic process, and know no other way.
Despite our frustrations with the racist GOP, and the ongoing struggle for a better America, the left has gained MUCH through the democratic and legislative process. Yes, there are as many left-wing cynics as right-wing cynics, who will argue that that's not true, and will justify "fighting violence with violence", but they are as ignorant of history, as anyone on the far right.
Check your history folks! Remind yourselves of all the left has gained over the years through the non-violent, democratic, legislative process. Fundamentally separate yourself from the violent alt-right, by denouncing violence and achieving victory the way we've always done it: through proper legal channels.

Sunday, August 27, 2017

Congressman Elijah Cummings statement on Trump's pardon of Joe Arpaio





By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Saturday August 26, 2017, Congressman Elijah Cummings (D-Maryland) issued the following statement after President Trump pardoned Joe Arpaio:

“The President claims that he wants to unite the country and fight against racism, yet his own words and actions show the opposite.  He followed up his abhorrent statements about Charlottesville—that some white supremacists are 'very fine people'—by pardoning a racist cop for his crimes against minorities.  Over and over again, President Trump has promoted what Speaker Ryan once called ‘textbook racism’ while exhibiting contempt for the rule of law.  President Trump is sending a message with these words and his actions, and it is one of hate and divisiveness rather than hope and unity.”

Saturday, August 26, 2017

Neighborhood Theatre Group in Ypsilanti premiering original 10-Minute Musical September 1.


By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Ypsilanti based Neighborhood Theatre Group is pleased to announce the premier of Paw Prints September 1, 2017. Paw Prints is an original 10 minute musical by local playwright Eric Hohnke. On Friday, September 1 there will be four free performances at 7 pm,, 7:30 pm, 8 pm and 8:30 pm. The performances will be held at at SPARK East located at 215 W. Michigan Ave in downtown Ypsilanti.

 The Humane Society of Huron Valley is partnering with NTG and will be accepting donations and provide adoption and volunteer information. Paw Prints is appropriate for all ages, so no need for a sitter, the entire family can attend.

Paw Prints is a story about Becky, a woman who adopts a dog named Chip who happens to be very fun loving. Becky's life takes an unexpected turn, and the pair are forced to evaluate all that is important in life.

The 10 Minute Muical is written NTG company member and Chelsea, Michigan native, Eric Hohnke, and is directed by Dianne Bernick. The musical stars Kristin Anne Danko who plays Becky and Lark Haunert as Chip. Tom Hett is on piano.

Neighborhood Theatre Group is dedicated to cultivating a welcoming and collaborative environment in the city of Ypsilanti for theatre artists. NTG features original work, sketch shows, cabarets, and self-produced videos.

For more information email NTG at NeighborhoodTheatreGroup@gmail.com.

Friday, August 25, 2017

Apparent drug deal leads to homicide in Ypsilanti Thursday August 24.



By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Updated August 26, 2017.

According to an August 25, 2017 press release from the Ypsilanti Police Department there was a homicide in the city of Ypsilanti on Thursday, August 24. Officers were dispatched to the 800 block of Madison at approximately 8:15 pm after a report of a shooting. Officers arrived on the scene and found a white male with a gunshot wound to the head in the front seat of the vehicle. There was a white female driver of the vehicle on the sidewalk covered in blood and hysterical.

The white female told Ypsilanti police that her boyfriend had attempted to sell marijuana to a subject seated in the backseat as they drove on Monroe. The subject pulled a gun and began to shoot.

The female stated that the subject ran Southeast away from the scene. An occupant of the vehicle contacted dispatch and was picked up in Ypsilanti Township. and brought to the Police Station for questioning.

According to Ypsilanti Police, the victim was was transported to the hospital but later died.

If you have any additional information regarding this case please contact Lt. Deric Gress at 734-482-9847 or crime Stoppers at 1-800-speakup (773-2587)

Update August 26, 2017 at 10:25 pm.   Suspect is an unknown black male age 18 to 22 years old, 5'10-6'0, and wearing long sleeve grey hooded sweatshirt. Suspect has not been arrested.

Thursday, August 24, 2017

U.S.Congresswoman Debbie Dingell releases statement on President Trump's address on Afghanistan.



By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

In an August 21, 2017 press release U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell made the following statement on President Trump's address on the Afghanistan War.

“As we enter the 16th consecutive year with American troops still in harm’s way, our servicemembers and their families deserve clarity on the future of our mission. President Trump’s address did not outline clear metrics for achieving victory or measuring success. It is our collective obligation to support our servicemembers’ enduring sacrifice with a renewed and robust debate about the war here at home. The war in Afghanistan was authorized under President George Bush before many members of Congress even contemplated running for the offices they hold today. When Congress returns in September we must take up this important debate, including a serious discussion about how to reach bipartisan consensus on a new authorization for the use of military force. This is critical to providing our servicemembers and their families the certainty they deserve.”

Wednesday, August 23, 2017

Congressman Cummings statement on the passing of Dick Gregory.


By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

According to an August 20 press release, Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (D-MD)  issued the following statement on the passing of comedian and civil rights activist Dick Gregory.

"I am deeply saddened by the death of my friend, teacher and mentor, Dick Gregory.  My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.  Dick’s comedy, speeches and activism brought laughter to millions, gave a voice to the voiceless, and spoke truth to power.  He will be missed by many.”

Tuesday, August 22, 2017

Statement by U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) on Navy operational pause.





By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown

U.S. Senator and Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee released the following statement on the Navy's announcement of an operational pause.

“My thoughts and prayers continue to be with the sailors and families of the USS John McCain and USS Fitzgerald. I agree with Admiral Richardson that more forceful action is urgently needed to identify and correct the causes of the recent ship collisions. Our sailors who risk their lives every day, in combat and in training, deserve no less. I expect full transparency and accountability from the Navy leaders as they conduct the associated investigations and reviews.” 

Monday, August 21, 2017

Solar Eclipse 2017: Ypsilanti residents turnout in droves for viewing at local libraries Monday. Catch PWP reporter Jo Jo and her video description of eclipse.


By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

So many people drove to the Whittaker Road Ypsilanti Public Library to view the solar eclipse that the PWP Purple Power People Mobile couldn't find a place to park! Well, maybe PWP should have planned better and headed over there earlier! Fortunately, the view of the eclipse from Grant St in Ypsi wasn't too shabby.

Anyway, tons of Ypsilanti residents headed over to Ypsilanti libraries Monday afternoon to view the first total solar eclipse in 38 years.

The Ypsilanti Public Library on Whittaker Road viewing event featured NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Jennifer Ayala. Very cool.

If you missed this eclipse there's no need to worry, there will be another one coming up in, umm, 2024!

Couple of Ypsi kids view the eclipse on Grant St.

Sunday, August 20, 2017

Guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain collides with merchant ship Sunday:10 sailors missing.



By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

According to a United States Navy press release that was updated Sunday evening at 9:45 pm, the U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain collided with a merchant ship east of the Straits of Malacca and Singapore on August 21. According to an update released by the Navy at 9:45 PM Sunday, 10 sailors are missing and five are injured.

According to the U.S. Department of the Navy, the collision occurred at 6:24 AM Japan Standard Time. The ship was in route to Singapore.

Currently, the ship is under its own power and heading to port.

Solar Eclipse Party Monday, August 21, Ypsilanti District Library.



By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Updated August 20. 10:10 PM.

Just in case you haven't heard, which would be hard to believe, the first solar eclipse in 38 years is coming to a town near you! Ok,  I should say, a sky near you!

If you'd like to find a cool place to witness this rare cosmic happening you can join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Jennifer Ayala for an eclipse viewing party at the Ypsilanti District Library on Whittaker Road, Monday August 21. You can bring the whole family! NASA eclipse viewing glasses will be provided, also. NASA viewing glasses sound hardcore!  I love it. Ms Ayala will be on hand to answer any and all of your questions. If the weather is crummy, not to worry, because they will have a live webcast of the event indoors.

This is the first total solar eclipse in 38 years in North America and this event will be a fine way to experience the celestial happening.

The event will be held Monday at the Ypsilanti District Library on Whittaker Road in Ypsilanti from 1 pm - 3 pm.

Update:  There will be eclipse viewing parties at all three Ypsi Library locations. Viewing glasses will be provided.

Saturday, August 19, 2017

Eastern Michigan University: 4th Annual Movie Night at the Factory August 21.

Photo Purple Walrus Press.


By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

The 4th Annual Movie Night at The Factory will be happening Monday, August 21 and you don't want to miss it. "Finding Dory" will be shown on the football field of Rynearson Stadium. The cost is a mere $5 per group or family.
Proceeds will benefit the Alzheimer's Association.

The gates will open at 7 pm. There will also be concessions and a kids Fun Zone. The movie will begin around 8:40 pm.

This is sure to be a fun evening for the kids AND adults.

Friday, August 18, 2017

U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell releases statement on the terror attack that occurred in Barcelona, Spain.

By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.




Thursday evening, August 17, 2017, U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell released the following statement on the terror attack that occurred in Barcelona, Spain earlier on Thursday.

“Today's attack in Barcelona, Spain is another reminder of the presence of evil amongst us and innocent lives lost after a senseless act of terror. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families, and we stand united with our friends in Spain and across the globe in denouncing terrorism wherever it threatens freedom, democracy, and peace. We cannot let fear and hatred divide us, and instead must stand united in defeating evil in all forms.”

Thursday, August 17, 2017

Opinion: Joy Murray of Flint: We need to get on the right track, America.



Contributed to PWP by Joy Murray.

Does Trump love confederate president Davis more than Lincoln?
I visited Richmond, VA about three years ago and commented several times on the lack of representation in statues of the Union leaders and African American leaders. We took a tour and saw the "avenue of monuments" that included Lee and Davis along with dozens of other confederates. Not one mention or statue of Lincoln! I asked our guide about this glaring absence and he had no answer (for me at least). We visited the museum of the confederacy (we visit a lot of museums-I wanted to see how they portrayed both sides of the war) and saw nothing that represented the REASON for the war. The word slavery was not mentioned once!!! African Americans were only represented in the background as to how they helped during the war. As I stated then, they whitewashed the war. I felt then that I was in a different country. I couldn't wrap my head around the absence of memorials to all the violence and pain inflicted on African Americans. Richmond loves it's confederate heroes, no matter how awful they are. Now we know that Trump loves former confederate president Davis more than Lincoln.
How much more can we take as Americans? Theresa May spoke out against the kkk violence and in support of the peaceful protesters and she's a Brit!
Now I hear that the family of the young woman killed has been getting death threats! We need to get on the right track,  America.

Wednesday, August 16, 2017

City of Ypsilanti denounces Racism, Hatred and Fear Tactics.




By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

According to a August 16, 2017 press release from the Ypsilanti City Clerk's Office, the City of Ypsilanti has denounced the tactics of racism, hatred and fear. The statement was released by Ypsilanti City Clerk Frances McMullen.

According to the press release, "The events reported from Charlottesville, Virginia on Saturday, August 12, 2017 have saddened, sickened, and angered political leaders in the City of Ypsilanti." The demonstrations in Charlottesville were held and led by white nationalists bent on spreading hate, fear and racism. The white nationalists demonstrations attracted neo-Nazis and the KKK. Counter demonstrators who were protesting the white nationalists were attacked. One person was killed and at least 34 were injured during the protest. White nationalists were in Charlottesville Saturday specifically to spread hatred, fear and bigotry.

According to the press release from the Ypsilanti City Clerk's Office, those actions led the Ypsilanti City Council on August 15, 2017, to pass a resolution condemning racism, hatred and fear.

According to Ypsilanti Mayor Amanda Edmonds, “Hate is oppression and is unacceptable on every level. As a community we have to support each other and not spread hate and divisiveness. I am extremely proud of my community for knowing that we can peacefully gather to express our opinions and we create safe spaces to talk through issues and work to make our community open and welcoming to everyone.”

Congresswoman Debbie Dingell informs of Vigil / group speak out against hate at UM Dearborn Wednesday night August 16.



By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

According to a Wednesday, August 16 post by Congresswoman Debbie Dingell on her facebook page, there will be a vigil and group speak out at U of M Dearborn Wednesday evening August 16, beginning at 8 pm. Community members are being asked to come together to plan ways to combat hate. According to Dingell's facebook post, "These are times we must stand up for what is right.....there is no ambiguity. We are being divided....and I must observe it scares me. Hatred and evil cannot win......and we must oppose it. Tonight, students are gathering at U of M Dearborn to show their strength and courage. John Dingell will be one of the main speakers (I will too but his wisdom and seasoning is something we can all use right now) Student invite:.."

The vigil/speak out will be held behind the University Center at the University of Michigan Dearborn. The vigil will begin at 8 pm. At 9 pm community members will come together to plan ways to combat hate. 

According to Dingell,"This was not an isolated incident. They keep happening. Now more than ever is hatred so clear, with people unafraid to show their faces while participating in White Lives Matter rallies. This same hatred existed 50 years ago and it still lives in some today.

Come together to speak out against fascism, racism, anti-semitism, islamaphobia, and other forms of ignorance.”

Monday, August 14, 2017

Residents of Guam rally for peace Monday in effort to end missile crisis that is targeting the island.



By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

According to Guam news publication the Pacific Daily News, approximately 100 residents of Guam participated in the "People for Peace" rally. The rally was held Monday, August 14, 2017, in front of a statue of Chief Kepuha. Chief Kepuha was the islands first Catholic chief.

According to PDN, the rally was organized in response to an announcement last week that North Korea have plans to launch four intermediate-range ballistic missiles in close proximity to the island of Guam, which is a U.S. Territory situated in the pacific ocean.

According to PDN, the crowd sang songs and held signs calling for an end to the missile crisis that has placed Guam directly in the crosshairs of North Korea.

In a statement to PDN,  Independent Guahan Chairman Michael Bevacqua stated, "Donald Trump says we we'll see what happens with Guam before we decide what to do, but that might make people in Montana or Alabama feel good, but that makes us feel a little bit scared."

Overflowing garbage behind properties in back parking area on Washtenaw Ave in Ypsilanti Monday.



By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

As of Monday morning, August 14, 2017, garbage can be seen flowing out of a dumpster and thickly covering the surrounding pavement in a back parking area situated behind two properties on Washtenaw Ave in Ypsilanti. The dumpster is situated in the parking area at the rear between a house located at 905 Washtenaw Ave and an adjacent apartment building just to the West. 905 Washtenaw appears to be either a sorority or fraternity, though PWP has not confirmed this. The properties are located directly across the street from the campus of Eastern Michigan University.

As of approximately 9:45 am Monday, it appeared that the garbage had been overflowing for some time. Numerous birds were visible feeding on the garbage on the pavement.

Sunday, August 13, 2017

Hundreds participate in Stand in Solidarity with Charlottesville Rally on UM Diag Sunday evening in Ann Arbor.


By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

A Stand in Solidarity with Charlottesville rally that took place on the Diag on the campus of the University of Michigan Sunday evening, August 13, 2017, attracted hundreds of people. The goal of the rally was to show that residents of Michigan stand in solidarity with the counter-protesters in Charlottesville, VA who took a stand against white-supremacist terrorism. According to event organizers, "We mourn the loss of life and injuries to those bravely standing up to fascist violence. We condemn racism, white supremacy and neo-Nazism." Organizers made clear the urgent need to defend friends and families from terrorism.

Several speakers addressed the roughly 600 people who participated in the rally. Speakers included Ann Arbor Mayor Chris Taylor, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, State Representatives Yousef Rabhi and Adam Zemke, organizer and historian Dr. Austin McCoy, and Howard University Alumna Christian Boyd.

The event was hosted by Ann Arbor Indivisible, A2D2 - Ann Arbor Indivisible Dems,  Chelsea Stands Indivisible, and Indivisible Dexter.

Photos Purple Walrus Press.
Ann Arbor Mayor Chris Taylor.
Congresswoman Debbie Dingell and Yousef Rabhi State Representative.

Normal Park Neighborhood Music Festival took Center Stage in Ypsilanti Saturday, August 12.


Rebekah Craft of Linen Ray.

By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

 The 3rd annual Normal Park Neighborhood Music Festival in Ypsilanti hosted by Colin Murphy took Center Stage Saturday, August 12, 2017, and it is safe to say that no one left festival without a smile. Live music from every genre filled neighborhood streets and back yards as roughly 20 bands and musicians filled the neighborhood with sweet sounds and good vibes.

The goal of the annual event is to provide an open forum event that allows neighbors the opportunity to organize and participate in any way they want to. Six houses in the Normal Neighbor hosted bands and musicians that performed sets in their back or front yards.

Among the many performers participating at this years music festival, Eric Moore serenaded listeners at 1124 Pearl Street with his brand of toe tappin' acoustic music, as over at 1109 Grant Street local group Linen Ray performed a stellar set of songs on the front porch to an ever increasing number of listeners. Local musician Adam Plomaritas joined Linen Ray for their set before performing a strong solo performance accompanying himself on electric guitar.

It is easy to see why the Normal Park Neighborhood Music Festival in Ypsilanti has captured the attention of so many music fans, solo performers and bands, as on Saturday, August 12, 2017, there was no better place to experience live music.





Eric Moore.

Adam Plomaritas.

Saturday, August 12, 2017

Rutherford Pool Kids' Triathlon in Ypsilanti Saturday, August 12: Fun Times, Slick bikes and Quick kids!



By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

 The 6th annual Kids Triathlon was held Saturday, August 12, 2017 at Rutherford Pool in Ypsilanti, and organizers could not have asked for better weather conditions. Under sunny skies and temperatures hovering around the 70 degree mark, 64 kids between the ages of 4 and 12 participated in the triathlon event that serves as a fundraiser for Rutherford Pool in the city of Ypsilanti. The event included swimming, cycling, and running.

The triathlon is focused on raising money for the pool and introducing children to the rewarding experience of participating in a triathlon. Of course, the main goal is providing kids with a fun and healthy event.

According to Rutherford Pool Triathlon Planning Committee member Amyleigh Johnson, this years event raised over $1,700 for Rutherford Pool.

After the kids crossed the finish line these finely tuned athletes of Ypsilanti were treated to a participants only refreshment table that featured water, fruit and other assorted treats. Matthew Casey of Ypsilanti provide free coffee to very appreciative grown ups.

The fundraiser was presented by the Kiwanis Club of Ypsilanti in cooperation with The Friends of Rutherford Pool.

Judging from the looks on the faces of the young triathletes, and parents alike, it was obvious that everyone at the event had a great time, and that's what it is all about.



Friday, August 11, 2017

Eastern Michigan University Nursing students participate in Motor City Medical Mission at Cobo Center August 9-11.



By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

 A large number of students from the Eastern Michigan University School of Nursing participated in the Motor City Medical Mission August 9-11 at the Cobo Center in Detroit. In all, 39 volunteers from Eastern Michigan took part in the Motor City Medical Mission and filled 60 spots, according to a press release from the University.

The Motor City Medical Mission provides fee dental, optical and medical treatment from those who are in need.

Thursday, August 10, 2017

Ypsilanti Water Street Millage passes. Gateway to the future?



By Bob Resch. Purple Walrus Press.

The Water Street Millage has finally been approved.  So glad it's
over.  I know for a fact that many Ypsilantians are sick and tired of
the endless debate, finger pointing, name calling and blame games over
the last few years.

This is a huge opportunity for the City of Ypsilanti to move forward
toward fiscal stability and reinstitute lost city services.

Councilman Pete Murdock informed me that the City operates on a two year budget
cycle.  The millage dollars will be assessed on the next July tax bill
for Fiscal Year 2018-19.  This next budget cycle will be the time that
City Council will review spending priorities with the revenues
received from the Water Street Millage.  Most discussions center
around restoring some of the cuts made by the City.

The proposed International Village at Water Street is still in play
and some guidance will be forthcoming mid September.   This could be a
huge gateway to the future for the City on the local and international
stage.

A note to Ypsilanti residents.   Let your voice be heard at future
City Council meetings.   Any ideas that would help further the future
of Ypsilanti are always welcomed.

I believe the City's biggest asset is the Huron River.  Clean it up.
Maximize the use of Frog Island Park.  Maybe some restaurants and
retail to extend Depot town.   Can the river support a canoe livery
like Gallup Park in Ann Arbor?

The future is so bright for Ypsilanti we might ALL have to wear sunglasses!!

Special message from Guam Governor Calvo to the people of Guam.



By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Wednesday, August 9, 2017, Guam Governor Eddie Baza Calvo released a special message to the people of Guam according to a press release from Governor Calvo and Guam Homeland Security.

According to Governor Calvo, "Hafa Adai my dear people of Guam.

I know we woke up to media reports of North Korea's talk of revenge on the United States and this so-called new found technology that allows them to target Guam.

I am working with Home;and Security, the Rear Admiral, and the United States to ensure our safety.

I want to reassure the people of Guam that currently there is no threat to our island or the Marianas. I spoke to Joint Region Marianas Commander Rear Admiral Shoshana Chatfield who confirmed this with me.

My Homeland Security Adviser who is in communication with Homeland Security and Department of Defense notes that there is no change in the threat level resulting from North Korea events. HSA George Charfauros reminds us that there are several levels of defense all strategically placed to protect our island and our nation.

Additionally, I have reached out to the White House this morning. An attack or threat to Guam is a threat or attack on the the United States. They have said that America will be defended.

 I also want to remind the national media that Guam is American soil and we have 200,000 Americans in Guam and the Marianas. We are not just a military installation.

With that said, I want to ensure that we are prepared for any eventuality. I will be convening the Unified Coordination Group, which includes myself and the Rear Admiral, to discuss the state of readiness of our military and our local first responders.

My office will continue to provide information to our community. What information we are given, we will pass it on to you.

God bless Gaum and God bless the United States of America."

Wednesday, August 9, 2017

Amid N. Korean threat of missile attack on U.S. Territory, Guam Governor Eddie Calvo urges residents of island not to panic.




Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

In a Wednesday, August 9, 2017 statement made to the Pacific Daily News publication in Guam, the governor of Guam Eddie Calvo, said that the threat level to the island has not changed and he is urging the public to remain calm. According to Pacific Daily News, "This is not the time to panic," Calvo stated to reporters at a press conference in Adelup."There have been many statements out there that have been made by a very bellicose leader, but at this point there has been no change in the security situation here in Guam." Tuesday, August 8, 2017  N. Korea threatened to attack the island of Guam, which is a U.S. Territory in the Pacific Ocean.

DPN also reported Wednesday that Governor Calvo stated that officials in Guam have confidence in defense layers that protect the island and the United States.

U.S Congresswoman Debbie Dingell talks with constituents at Congress in Your Community event Ypsilanti Farmers Market Tuesday.




Debbie Dingell chats with residents at Farmers Market in downtown Ypsilanti Tuesday.


By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell held an event called Congress in your Community Tuesday, August 8, 2017, at the downtown Ypsilanti Farmers Market.Throughout the month Dingell is using the August District Work Period to hear what is on the minds of her constituent's. She will be holding 10 Congress in Your Community events as an opportunity to hear what is on the minds and meet with residents who live in Michigan's 12th District. This according to Dingell's office. This event is happening during National Farmers Market Week, which is taking place from August 6-12, 2017.

The Congress in Your Community event in Ypsilanti Tuesday afternoon was well-attended as many residents turned out for the event that ran from 4-5:30 pm downtown.

According to Dingells office, "Congress in Your Community allows Dingell to talk directly with members of the community at their local markets about their issues and concerns."

Tuesday, August 8, 2017

Rutherford Pool Kid's Triathlon coming Saturday August 12th in Ypsilanti.



By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

The annual Rutherford Pool Kid's Triathlon is coming, and soon! Children ages 4 to 12 will participate in this fundraising event. The event is presented by the Ypsilanti Kiwanis Club in cooperation with The Friends of Rutherford Pool.

The event will take place Saturday, August 12 at 8 am - 10:30 am at Rutherford Pool located at 975 N.Congress St in Ypsilanti.

Register for the event online or at the pool.  Deadline for registration is August 9th.

Sunday, August 6, 2017

Fun times & Slick cars at Gene Butman Ford 60th Anniversary Car Show Saturday, August 5 in Ypsilanti.



Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.


Gene Butman Ford in Ypsilanti hosted their 60th Anniversary Car Show on Saturday, August 5 at their dealership on Washtenaw Ave in Ypsilanti. The classes were pre-1970, post-1970 and Tuner / Special Interest. Also on hand were professional judges who chose winners for each car category. Trophies, plaques and cash prizes were also awarded.

The local band Cruizin' Jupiter rocked steady, and food trucks and kid activities were on site.

From the looks things, both participants and attendees had a fantastic cool car and good vibes time!

Saturday, August 5, 2017

AAU Junior Olympic Games come to a close Saturday, Aug 5 at Eastern Michigan University.




Rynearson Stadium Saturday, August 5, 2017. Photos Purple Walrus Press.


Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Saturday, August 5, 2017 was the final day for AAU Junior Olympic Games being held this year at Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti. The AAU  Olympic Games are widely known as the largest multi-sport event for youth in the United States. This year the event was held at Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti, July 28 through August 5, 2017.

The events ranged from 7v7 football and Track and Field to Jump Rope and Tumbling. That's quite a variety of events.

Saturday was the final day of competition at the AAU Junior Olympic Games and a sizable crowd was on hand to view the final Track and Field event Saturday morning and in the early afternoon.

Most importantly, the participating athletes looked thrilled and excited to be competing at this years Junior Olympic Games located here in Ypsilanti.

Friday, August 4, 2017

Eastern Michigan University installing light post banners representing international students.





Publisher & Editor Jeff Brown.

According to Eastern Michigan University, the school is in the process of installing banners that feature 108 international students attending the university, representing over 40 nations. According to EMU, the banners will surround the campus and extend into Ypsilanti.

The light post banner campaign is associated with EMU's support for the national YouAreWelcomeHere campaign. The campaign was formed in response to concern and apprehension by some international students in regard to studying in the United States. In effort to alleviate apprehension, colleges and universities have joined together to help make international students feel more comfortable and feel welcome through this campaign. This according to an EMU press release.

Nearly 1000 international students are currently enrolled at Eastern.

According to the August 2, 2017 press release from the university, "This has been a very positive campaign for Eastern Michigan University, and for universities around the country", said Walter Kraft, Eastern's Vice President for communication."

Thursday, August 3, 2017

Flint Water Crisis Day #1192: Flint Water Crisis activist Melissa Mays.



Downtown Flint. Photo Purple Walrus Press.



Contributed to PWP by Melissa Mays of Flint.

Day #1192 in the #FlintWaterCrisis: RESEARCH
So I've heard that a certain person keeps saying that the Safe Drinking Water Act lawsuit that the NRDC & ACLU won for us does the same as the Governor's 75 point "action plan" for Flint. THIS IS HILARIOUS. Snyder planned to have 30 LEAD service lines replaced plus faucets in public buildings. There was talk of infrastructure with ZERO plans to fund it! See: http://www.mlive.com/…/…/state_plans_for_flint_water_cr.html
The NRDC settlement forces the State to pay for ALL 18,000-20,000 lead AND galvanized service lines to be replaced within 3 years or less: https://www.nrdc.org/st…/flint-drinking-water-settlement-faq. Not the 10-15 years as originally thought. (Snyder's plan also forced us to stay with the KWA.) My advice is for people to keep asking questions and then do your own research. Don't fall into their drama-filled attacks and nonsense. Flint deserves better than that!