Rally to Reunite Families and End Family Detention draws large number of demonstrators in Ann Arbor Saturday.

Photo Purple Walrus Press.

Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Temperatures soared into the mid nineties Saturday morning, but that did not stop roughly 1000 demonstrators from protesting the Trump Administration and its Zero Tolerance and family detention policy on the border. The rally took place on the Diag on the campus of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

The rally, sponsored by Interfaith Council for Peace and Justice and Washtenaw Interfaith Coalition for Immigrant Rights, was intent on demanding a permanent end to the separation of children and families by Trump, immediately reversing the Zero Tolerance policy which created the crisis, reuniting every family that remains torn apart, permanently ending the indefinite detention of children and families and accountability for, in the words of organizers, the abusers, ICE and Border Patrol.

Michigan Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, a Holocaust survivor and several other individuals who gave personal testimonials regarding their personal experiences with discrimination addressed the receptive crowd gathered on the Diag.

Protesters carried signs stating, among other messages, 'Save the Country,' 'Families Belong Together', 'Where Are the Children', and 'Trump is a Fascist.'

Photos Purple Walrus Press.

Families in Flint can receive nutritious food at mobile food pantry in July.

By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

 I am very happy to report that according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Flint families may get nutritious food that can limit the effects of lead exposure during mobile food pantry hours set for July at locations throughout Flint.

The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan in Flint and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services are announcing the upcoming schedule for mobile food pantry stops to distribute foods rich in calcium, vitamin C and iron. Families in July will receive produce that includes corn, green beans, zucchini, kale, collards, cabbage, potatoes, tomatoes, cucumbers, watermelon, peppers.

Over $300 million has been provided to help the residents of Flint, including funding for this initiative. Food distribution sites remain open while supplies last. Upcoming dates are:

• Monday, July 2, at 10 a.m. – Bethel United Methodist Church, 1309 Ballenger Hwy.
• Tuesday, July 3, at 10 a.m. – Asbury United Methodist Church, 1653 Davison Road.
• Thursday, July 5, at 10 a.m. – Greater Holy Temple, 6702 N. Dort Hwy.
• Monday, July 9, at 10 a.m. – Bethel United Methodist Church, 1309 Ballenger Hwy.
• Tuesday, July 10, at 10 a.m. – Catholic Charities of Shiawassee and Genesee Counties, 910 Chippewa St.
• Tuesday, July 10, at 10 a.m. – Asbury United Methodist Church, 1653 Davison Road.
• Wednesday, July 11, at noon – Salem Lutheran Church, 2610 Martin Luther King Ave.
• Thursday, July 12, at 10 a.m. – Greater Holy Temple, 6702 N. Dort Hwy.
• Friday, July 13, at 10 a.m. – Flint Muslim Food Pantry, 4400 S. Saginaw St.
• Monday, July 16, at 10 a.m. – Bethel United Methodist Church, 1309 Ballenger Hwy.
• Tuesday, July 17, at 10 a.m. – Asbury United Methodist Church, 1653 Davison Road.
• Wednesday, July 18, at 10 a.m. – Hispanic Tech Center, 2101 Lewis St.
• Thursday, July 19, at 10 a.m. – Greater Holy Temple, 6702 N. Dort Hwy.
• Friday, July 20, at 10 a.m. – St. Luke’s NEW Life Center, 3115 Lawndale Ave.
• Monday, July 23, at 10 a.m. – Bethel United Methodist Church, 1309 Ballenger Hwy.
• Tuesday, July 24, at 10 a.m. – Catholic Charities of Shiawassee and Genesee Counties, 910 Chippewa St.
• Tuesday, July 24, at 10 a.m. – Asbury United Methodist Church, 1653 Davison Road.
• Thursday, July 26, at 10 a.m. – Greater Holy Temple, 6702 N. Dort Hwy.
• Monday, July 30, at 10 a.m. – Bethel United Methodist Church, 1309 Ballenger Hwy.
• Tuesday, July 31, at 10 a.m. – Asbury United Methodist Church, 1653 Davison Road.

Further, Flint residents can also pick up free nutritional food at the three Flint Help Center locations. They are Bethel United Methodist Church, 1309 N. Ballenger Highway, open from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.Mondays; Asbury United Methodist Church, 1653 Davison Road, open Tuesdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and Greater Holy Temple, 6702 N. Dort Highway, open Thursdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

This schedule is subject to change, and information about additional food distribution dates will be announced as they are scheduled. For more information or to find out about any changes in the schedule, visit the Food Bank website at www.FBEM.org and find the updated schedule on the Mobile Pantry Distribution page, or call 810-239-4441.

Speak out for humanity: Rally on Diag UM campus Ann Arbor to Reunite Familes/End Family Detention set for-June 30.

By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

A rally protesting family separation of those attempting to enter the U.S. on the border will be held on the Diag on the campus of the University of Michigan in Arbor on June 30th. The rally will begin at 11 am.

Across the nation over 300.000 peole will participating in Families Belong Together events  scheduled for June 30. Below are the demands

. Permanently end the separation of children and families by Trump...immediately and permanently reversing the zero tolerance policy which created this crisis..

. Reunite every single family that remains brutally torn apart...and prove it.
.Permanently end the indefinite detention of children and families.
. Accountability for the abusers, ICE and Border Patrol, responsible for this horror.

Mark your calender's for this special and extremely important event. As Americans we need to ask ourselves what kind of nation do we want to be. At this point America is certainly no beacon of light and is in fact behaving in a manner that is xenophobic, bigoted, and inhumane toward those wishing to immigrate into the country.

Come out to the Diag Saturday and speak out for human rights, human compassion, and human decency.

The Breast Express is on the way!

Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Yes, that's right..The Breast Express is coming soon to a location near you!

The Breast Express is coming here to Washtenaw County and will be at the Washtenaw County Health Department this Friday, June 22 from 1-4 pm.  According to the Washtenaw County Health Dept, the 40-foot pumpsuite on wheels is traveling across the country to celebrate women who nurse and pump and to drive greater community support for breastfeeding. Stops are scheduled in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti.

 The Health Department is located at 555 Towner Street, Ypsilanti. Breastfeeding moms and the individuals and families who support them can stop by for free breastfeeding consultation, and to learn breastfeeding laws, babywearing, and programs that support health and healthy eating. Water, snacks, and farmers market samples will also be available. 

 Certified lactation consultant Gayathri Akella, MS, RD, IBCLC, and the WIC breastfeeding peer counselors will be on site to provide breastfeeding support and answer questions.

This sounds like an awesome event. Be sure to check it out Friday!

Ypsilanti Historic Home Tour Sunday June 24. You don't want to miss it!

Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

The 41 st Annual Ypsilanti Historic Home Tour is coming up very soon, and by soon I mean this Sunday, June 24! Check it out. You'll be in for a treat.

Here's the lowdown from  MJ Dennison:

The 41st Annual Historic Home Tour is this Sunday June 24th, from noon to 5.  If you like variety in a home tour this year is for you!  A stately Tudor, a Colonial Revival and 2 lovely Queen Anne Victorians (one of which is a "work in progress" where the bones of this historic home will be on display.)  Ypsilanti's commitment to affordable housing is also being highlighted with a home that is part of the Deborah Strong Housing renewal.  And for those who enjoy the entrepreneurial spirit of Ypsilanti an artistically motivated couple have opened a unique general store in Depot Town and will be showcasing their wares.

Tickets are $15 and are available at the following locations or through PAYPAL at www.yhf.org:

Haab's, Materials Unlimited, Salt City Antiques, Eyrie, Cultivate, Norton's, Downtown Home & Garden, Aubree's (Whittaker Rd location)

On separation of families at border: By PWP contributor Brooks Parola.

Brooks Parola, formerly of Flint.

Folks, I caught a headline last night, (didn't read the article) that separation of families is just the beginning of his “get tough” on immigration plan. Polls are showing that while about 70% of the country is against it, his base loves it. Watch what happens; he wants a showdown on it, for all the November marbles...this is gonna turn into a real ugly game of chicken.

Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-12) : "Congress must step up to end policy of separating immigrant families."

Photo Purple Walrus Press.

Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Today Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-12) issued the following statement as the Trump Administration continues to stand behind their “zero tolerance” policy causing immigrant children to be separated from their parents:

“This Administration continues to double down on the inhumane, unjust and – as Cardinal Dolan said – unbiblical policy of separating parents from children. Asylum-seekers are fleeing violence, abuse and brutal governments to seek a better life in the US. These children are crying and terrified, not knowing when they will see their parents again. This policy is causing psychological damage that will last their lifetimes.

“The President could stop separating immigrant families if he wanted to. It is my fervent hope my Republicans colleagues, who I know are deeply disturbed as well, will make their voices heard tonight when the President meets with the Republican Caucus. He could stop this hateful, heartless policy immediately, but he doesn’t. So Congress must kick up our moral responsibility and take urgent action to end this policy. We’ve all seen the news reports, but members of Congress from both sides of the aisle must see the conditions firsthand, which I plan on doing. In the meantime, as I have said many times, we need comprehensive immigration reform in this country that keeps our borders safe but addresses a myriad of issues. We have DACA young people terrified. We have crops not being picked, a hospitality industry which is cutting back and closing restaurants, and a construction industry in need of workers. National security must always be a priority but it is time to tackle these problems in a broad manner so that all these issues are addressed.”

Congresswoman releases statement on Trump administration's policy of separating immigrant families at border.

Photo Purple Walrus Press.

Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-12) issued the following statement on the Administration’s policy of separating immigrant families at the border:

“The stories from the border make me ill. Babies ripped away from their breastfeeding mothers. Fathers driven to suicide. These are not American values. It’s cruel, inhumane, and does nothing make us a safer country.

“This weekend families across America will celebrate Father’s Day. But there’s nothing to celebrate for immigrant parents separated from their children.

“Members of Congress must see first-hand the conditions these children are being held in and the pain inflicted on these families. Our country must end this despicable policy immediately.”

Statement by Senator John McCain on President Trump's G-7 comments.

By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement last Friday on President Trump’s suggestion that Russia be readmitted to the Group of Seven (G-7) nations:

“Vladimir Putin chose to make Russia unworthy of membership in the G-8 by invading Ukraine and annexing Crimea. Nothing he has done since then has changed that most obvious fact. Every day, Russian-led separatist forces are killing Ukrainians in the Donbass. Every day, Putin's forces are helping the Assad regime slaughter the Syrian people. And every day, through assassinations, cyber-attacks, and malign influence, Russia is assaulting democratic institutions all over the world. 

“The President has inexplicably shown our adversaries the deference and esteem that should be reserved for our closest allies. Those nations that share our values and have sacrificed alongside us for decades are being treated with contempt. This is the antithesis of so-called ‘principled realism’ and a sure path to diminishing America’s leadership in the world.”

Here is some background information on McCain. According to McCains press office, Senator McCain was one of the first lawmakers to call for Russia’s ejection from the G-8 following its atrocities against civilians in Chechnya. He introduced legislation in 2003 urging the president to suspend Russia's membership until the Russian government ended its assault on democratic principles and the rule of law.

Huron Valley Ambulance to host free summer events for kids in Washtenaw County.

Publisher & Editor Jeff Brown.

Huron Valley Ambulance (HVA) is hosting several fun and educational Camp 9-1-1 events for 8 – 12-year-old children this summer. Sounds great! Camp 9-1-1 promises to teach participants important first aid skills while also exposing them to careers in medicine and public safety. Camp 9-1-1 is offered to Washtenaw County residents free of charge.

According to HVA, a  well-loved annual event, Camp 9-1-1 is returning for its 12^th year. Run by HVA EMTs and Paramedics, this two-day camp teaches campers basic first aid, CPR, and even how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED) – the machine that shocks a heart back into rhythm in a cardiac emergency. Campers are taught that even children can potentially save a life. Camp 9-1-1 features field trips to local hospital Emergency Departments and Fire Departments. Guest speakers include officers from local Police and Sherriff’s Departments and the Michigan State Police. HVA has openings available at three Camp 9-1-1 sessions in Washtenaw County, camps are limited to 30 campers, so we encourage you to register early. More information and registration can be 

found at www.camp911.org.

Ypsilanti Camp 9-1-1: Thursday, July 12 & Friday, July 13

Chelsea Camp 9-1-1: Thursday, July 19 & Friday, July 20

Milan Camp 9-1-1: Wednesday, August 15 & Thursday, August 16

On Mental Health: PWP contributor and Flint Water Crisis Activist Melissa Mays of Flint.

Melissa Mays.

We ABSOLUTELY need to STOP stigmatizing mental health care ASAP. Your mental health is a part of your overall well-being. You wouldn't ignore a broken leg or be embarassed to get medical treatment for cancer, would you? If you or someone you care about is struggling, don't suffer in the dark. There is NO SHAME in seeing a doctor and taking care of yourself. There are numbers you can call or text 24/7 to get help or just to talk to someone. There are options to help the pain besides suicide or harming yourself and you are not alone. In Flint, you can call 810-257-3740 or text "Flint" to 741741 any time or nationally 1-800-273-8255, or chat with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline '1-800-273-TALK (8255)'

On Anthony Bourdain: PWP contributor Brooks Parola.

By old buddy and fellow Flintstone Brooks Parola.

There are so many reasons to have an appreciation for Anthony Bourdain. Obviously what made him famous was his smarts and his gift of language.

I think we loved the fact that we had an articulate spokesperson for those of us who've slaved away in kitchens, and other tough jobs for little pay. But, just as importantly, I think there are plenty of Anthony Bourdain's; many very smart and articulate people slaving away in restaurant kitchens because they love what they do, love food, or are unfortunately unable to get other work, despite their smarts. Bourdain was our reminder of that.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. 1-800-273-8255.

Anthony Bourdain found dead in France.

By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Besides sports and news I don't watch a lot of television. However, since 2013 I've never missed an episode of Anthony Bourdain's CNN series Parts Unknown. I also own two of Bourdain's books. Sadly,  Anthony Bourdain was found dead in his hotel room in France Friday morning, June 8, by his close friend French Chef Eric Repirt. Bourdain was in France filming an upcoming episode of of Parts Unknown.

According to reports, Bourdain committed suicide. Anthony was 61 years old.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.  1-800-273-8255

Crucial House races in VERY Blue California: By PWP contributor Brooks Parola.

Brooks Parola, formerly of Flint Town.

Folks, if the Dems get shut out of crucial House races in VERY Blue California, "in the name of greater democracy", I sure hope you'll take it as a serious warning going forward.

Everyone got their panties in a bunch when it was discovered that the DNC was interfering in these races, and trying to get certain candidates to drop out. Folks...THAT IS THEIR JOB! Making sure that the candidate with the broadest appeal (not one that panders to the leftist base) wins the primary, so that they have the best chance of winning in November.

In California, it was the DNC's job to make sure that best candidates ran last night, so that all of those California Democratic voters don't have to sit out the November elections, or get to choose between two Trump loving Republicans.

Polls are showing the "Blue Wave" lead is getting smaller and smaller. Republican candidates and their voters are rallying around the president. 70% of Republicans believe that Russia is a witch hunt, and Muller's report, when it comes out, may mean nothing to many.

Now, the upside, is that Trump still lost the popular vote, and it's probable that moderates and moderate conservatives (never Trumpers) have grown in numbers since Trump took office, but what that means is, those folks are CRUCIAL for Democratic wins in November of this year, and in 2020.

Folks, the "Vital Center" has never been more vital! Unity, strength in numbers behind moderate Dems are crucial! As California is showing tonight: Their system may be "more democratic" too bad there's a REAL possibility that the division that comes with increased democracy leaves progressives with nothing but losers, and a congress filled with Republicans.

On Bobby Kennedy: PWP contributor Brooks Parola, formerly of Flint Town.

Stephen King wrote a "what if JFK had lived" novel. Well, what if Bobby had lived? He most likely wins the nomination, and the general election. So...probably no convention violence in Chicago, no Nixon, no Watergate, a much faster end to the Vietnam War, and a far less cynical view of our politics and government as he works to heal the nation.

The Mother of all Yard Sales: Normal Park Neighborhood Association Community Yard Sale Draws big crowds.

Photo Purple Walrus Press.

By Editor and Publisher Jeff Brown.

 Partly sunny skies and temperatures hovering around the 70 degree mark provided a picture perfect day for the annual Normal Park Association Community Yard Sale in Ypsilanti Saturday, June 2. From Cross Street to Pearl St and from Summit to Mansfield, the streets and sidewalks were full of folks looking for deals, chatting, and schlepping...stuff. Cool stuff, mind you! Hell, I even got a set of very nice ceramic mugs for free!

This Woodstock of yard sales began at 9 am Saturday and ended at 4 pm, although bargain hunters began pouring into the neighborhood by 8 am.

Even if you didn't buy anything people still had a great time chatting with neighbors and people watching.

Photos Purple Walrus Press.

On the Flint Water Crisis: Contributed to PWP by Flint activist Melissa Mays: Rough news week for Flint residents.

Melissa Mays.

It's been a rough news week for Flint residents. We knew the deaths from bacterial pneumonia were bad. We knew there were countless miscarriages. Seeing the number breaks my heart but shows just how AWFUL the people are who are trying to downplay the #FlintWaterCrisis. Shame on ALL OF THEM!!!

Two Rabid Bats found in Washtenaw County according to Washtenaw County Health Department.

Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

According to a statement from the Washtenaw County Health Dept released on May 31, 2018,  two rabid bats have been found in Washtenaw County so far in 2018. The Washtenaw County Health Department is reminding residents to report any bat exposures or animal bites to 734-544-6700 before letting the animal go.

“We typically see a couple rabid bats in the county each year,” says Judy Gwozdek, communicable disease coordinator at the Washtenaw County Health Department. “Bat encounters tend to increase in the summer and fall months. Our public health nurses are available to talk through each situation and determine if there was any risk of exposure to rabies. This is critical, because rabies is almost always fatal if not prevented with post-exposure vaccination.”

The two rabid bats identified so far this year were found in the 48104 zip code in January and the 48103 zip code in May according to the Washtenaw County Health Dept.

According to the Health Dept, "If you find a bat in your house, don’t let it out until you talk with the Health Department. Bat bites are so small they are often undetectable. Costly rabies post-exposure treatments can be avoided if animals are captured and sent for rabies testing."

If a bat is present in your home, leave the bat alone and contact an animal control agency. Or, use these precautions to capture the bat safely:

1.      Put on leather work gloves.

2.      When the bat lands, approach it slowly and place a small box or coffee can over it.

3.      Slide a piece of cardboard under the container to trap the bat inside.

4.      Tape the cardboard to the container securely, and punch small holes in the cardboard, allowing the bat to breathe.

5.      If the bat is dead, put it carefully in a Ziploc bag and put it on ice until it can be sent in for testing.

6.      Contact the Washtenaw County Health Department at 734-544-6700 for advice regarding sending the bat for testing.

The Washtenaw County Health Department also recommends the following additional rabies prevention measures:

·         Make sure all open doors and windows have screens to prevent bats from entering your home. Check for other small openings, especially in older homes. Bats can enter through holes the size of a dime.

·         If you are bitten or scratched by a stray or wild animal, clean the bite or scratch wound immediately with soap and water and seek immediate medical attention.

·         Keep all pets, including cats, dogs, and ferrets, up-to-date on rabies vaccines.