Friday, December 27, 2019

Quick Lane Bowl: Eastern Michigan Loses To Pitt With Ugly Display of Misconduct In Final Moments By EMU Quarterback.



Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Eastern Michigan was defeated in the Quick Lane Bowl 34-30 in front of 34,000 fans by the University of Pittsburgh in what can only be described as an ugly and inexcusable display of unsportsmanlike like conduct by EMU senior quarterback Mike Glass in the final moments of a close game. For a team that played as well and as hard as EMU did in Thursday's bowl game at Ford Field in Detroit, the behavior of Glass only made the loss that much more painful for EMU students, fans and alumni. With moments left in the game and EMU with the ball trailing by four points Eastern quarterback Mike Glass was sacked for a short loss. But instead of popping up and and returning to the huddle, Glass jumped to his feet and threw punches at  two Pitt players, yes, two. Glass was immediately ejected from the game. This was a game that Eastern still had a chance to win. What a shame to end in such a ugly display of out misconduct.

6-7 EMU entered the game as 13 point underdogs, but played a stellar game on both sides of the ball. EMU senior quarterback Mike Glass completed 28 of 50 passes for 311 yards and two touchdown passes. EMU led Pitt until there was only 47 seconds left in the fourth quarter. It was midway through  the 4th that Panther quarterback Picket began dissecting the Eagle secondary with precision pass completions that led to a game tying touchdown pass in the fourth quarter. Picket finished the game throwing for 361 yards and three touchdowns paving the way for a Pitt victory. Pittsburgh's Maurice Ffrench snagged 12 passes for 165 yards.

EMU receiver Hassan Beydoun had a break out game catching nine passes for 113 yard. Beydoun received a full athletic scholarship on Christmas. Eastern's Shaq Vann dashed for 48 yards on 13 carries.

Thursday's game was Eastern's third bowl game appearance in four years and is proof of how EMU coach Chris Creighton has turned around the once ailing EMU football program. But to close the final minute of a tight game with the ejection of EMU quarterback Mike Glass has left fans with a sour taste and that's a shame.

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Sunday, December 22, 2019

Multiple Reports Of Strange Lights In The Sky over Mid Michigan Sunday Night.


Lights similar to these seen over Ontario earlier in year are being seen Sunday night Dec 22 over Mid Michigan.


Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

As of 9:00 PM Sunday night, December 22, there have been multiple reports of strange lights in the sky over Mid Michigan. Folks are describing seeing at least six bright shining, perfectly aligned lights in the sky. An individual in Clarkston stated that the strangely aligned bright lights are situated due west of the Clarkston, Michigan area.

Stay tuned for updates.

Friday, December 20, 2019

Eastern Michigan Men's Basketball To Take On Michigan State Saturday.



Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

The Eastern Michigan Men's basketball team will take on no.15 Michigan State on Saturday, December 21, in East Lansing at the Breslin Center at 7 PM. On December 17 EMU defeated a strong Northeastern Huskies team 60-55 at the Convocation Center in Ypsilanti in front of a raucous and enthusiastic home crowd. Eastern Michigan fans have every reason to be joyously enthusiastic as the EMU Eagles are off to a scorching 9-1 start having not lost a game at home this season. EMU has held opponents 57.1 points per game which ranks 10th in the nation.

Watch Eastern Michigan take on Michigan State on the Big Ten Network Saturday, December 21 at 7 PM.. You can also listen to the game on WEMU 89.1 on your dial.

Monday, December 16, 2019

Ypsilanti Planning Commission To Hold Public Hearing Regarding Zoning Regulations For Recreational Marijuana Facilities.


Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.
Wednesday, December 18, 2019, 7:00 pm
Council Chambers, City Hall
1 S Huron St, Ypsilanti, MI 
According to a press release from the City of Ypsilanti, a public hearing will be held by the Ypsilanti Planning Commission at their regular meeting to consider the following:

The following is a statement from the City of Ypsilanti.

Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment:

Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act Zoning Update


The Planning Commission will hear a presentation, hold a public hearing, and make a recommendation to City Council regarding a proposed amendment to the text of the zoning ordinance (Ypsilanti City Code Chapter 122). The proposed amendment will outline the zoning regulations for recreational marihuana facilities, including but not limited to: marihuana retailers, marihuana growing and/or processing centers, marihuana secure transporters, marihuana safety compliance facilities, marihuana microbusinesses, excess marihuana growers, and designated consumption establishments.
Planning Commission agendas and packets are available at cityofypsilanti.com/PlanningCommission. For further information, please call 734-483-9646 or email Andy Aamodt, City Planner, at aaamodt@cityofypsilanti.com. For a full calendar of City events, please go to our website at cityofypsilanti.com/calendar.aspx.
The City invites all interested persons to attend this meeting or to send written comments to the City of Ypsilanti, Community & Economic Development Department, One South Huron Street, Ypsilanti, Michigan 48197.  The City of Ypsilanti will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired, Limited English Proficiency (LEP) services, and audios of printed materials being considered at the meeting.  Individuals requiring auxiliary aids or services should provide two (2) days’ notice to the City, and contact the City by writing the City Clerk's Office, One South Huron Street, Ypsilanti, Michigan 48197; or by calling the Clerk’s Office at (734) 483-1100.

Sunday, December 15, 2019

Purple Walrus Press Writer's Alley: A Single Shining Star By Kathleen Deview.



                                                               
A single star shining in the blackest night,
Twinkling to the sky’s delight.
I wish I may, I wish I might, have the dream I wish tonight.
I wish for no more hate and despair,
For awareness to those that don’t seem to care,
For love of all humans, regardless of status or race,
To take care of each other
We can all love this place.
This place, our Earth, with beauty so divine,
For acceptance of varied religions and beliefs of all kind.
For through acceptance of others we can live in peace,
Sharing the stars together.
I have no fear as the shining star guides me through the night,
It reminds me of my status in time,
How much of our lives that truly shine.
Yes, I have no fear during my darkest night,
As I receive comfort from the stars delight.
I am calm and content as the shining star continues to stare,
I feel it beckons me as it radiates the sky at night,
My deepest thoughts and fears no longer in sight.




Saturday, December 14, 2019

On Trump Impeachment And Needed Social And Political Change: Contributed to Purple Walrus Press By Jessica Prozinski




Trump is going to be impeached next week. That’s super important (obviously?) Imagine the alternative…Trump gets through 4 years untouched by ANY consequences whatsoever of his criminal behavior.
Unfortunately, the Democrats’ plan to impeach Trump for his LEAST serious crimes is a continuation of their disastrous policy of fighting Trumpism with caution and half-stepping.
In case anyone was thinking we can all sit back and relax, remember that without our constant pressure on our reps over the past three years, we wouldn't have gotten to this point.
We're probably looking at acquittal, or dismissal of the charges, in the Senate. Which says absolutely nothing about Trump’s crimes or the impeachment process, and everything about what the Republican Party has become. We have to raise holy hell and demand that the Senate stand for some goddam thing except their corporate masters. Until recently, impeachment in the House seemed close to impossible. We couldn’t have predicted the weird Ukrainian phone call, and we don’t know what is around the next corner.
The next year is going to be a wild ride. Those of us who don’t hold political office are far from impotent. Mass action is the most powerful expression of democracy. It’s how the U.S. was born, how slavery was ended, and how the Civil Rights Movement won its victories. If you think I’m unrealistic for believing that mass political action can happen in the U.S. again, I think it’s unrealistic to believe that the laws of history and social change don’t apply to us.
It’s very important that we have a big turnout at the impeachment rallies next week. If you don’t know where your local one is, they’re listed on the MoveOn website. We need to give the biggest push possible to the impeachment and removal effort and send a message to Trump’s enablers that there will be a heavy price to pay for being so servile to this would-be dictator.
The past three years have changed our country and all of us permanently. We might only be the in the middle, or even at the beginning, of this upheaval. We’re facing terrible risks. But there’s also the chance that this could be the impetus for desperately needed social and political change. I have hope.

Wednesday, December 11, 2019

Michigan Attorney General Nessel Urges FTC to Strengthen Online Protections for Children




Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

According to a December 9 press release from the Attorney General's office, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and a bipartisan group of 24 other Attorneys General urged the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to strengthen its rules prohibiting websites, mobile applications, and other digital marketing companies from collecting and using the personal information of children under the age of 13.  

“My colleagues and I have come together to provide meaningful suggestions to strengthen the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act rule which would benefit Michigan’s children through enhanced privacy measures,” said Nessel. “To ensure that we’re keeping up with the ever-changing landscape of technology, fortifying the walls between young children and those looking to prey on them is crucial.”

While numerous websites and mobile applications collect personal information from users – including geolocation information, browser histories, search histories, and voice recordings – since 1996, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) has prohibited collecting this data from children under 13. This according to the press release.

In their letter, the Attorneys General ask the FTC to expand its definition of personal information to include items such as faceprints used to unlock cellphones, health data from internet-connected smart watches, and kids’ genetic information.
The Attorneys General also recommend that the FTC crack down on companies who embed code in children’s mobile applications and collect data to target children with behavioral advertising; and to examine how the rules apply to school-issued laptops that are “free” so long as companies get to collect information from the students using them.
Furthermore, the Attorneys General assert that the FTC should not create exceptions to the rule such as allowing platforms that host both child-directed and general audience content to work around COPPA’s requirements. As stated in the press release.

Per the press release, Nessel joins the Attorneys General of Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, New MexicoNew York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington in submitting this letter.

Dear Acting Secretary Tabor, On behalf of the Attorneys General of New Mexico, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington (“the States”), we submit the following comments as requested by the Federal Trade Commission (“the Commission”)1 on its implementation of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act, 15 U.S.C. § 6501 et seq. (“COPPA”), through regulations codified at 16 CFR part 312 (“the COPPA Rule”). Under 15 U.S.C. § 6504, State Attorneys General are authorized to bring actions under COPPA as parens patriae in order to protect their citizens from harm. As partners with the FTC in ensuring COPPA is enforced and children are protected, the States possess a unique and important perspective on how effective the COPPA Rule has been, the fundamental values and protections it upholds, and what improvements should be made. A. General Questions for Comment 1. Is there a continuing need for the Rule as currently promulgated? Why or why not? Yes, though the Rule should be strengthened significantly as recommended herein. Technology by its nature evolves quickly, and any statutory scheme designed to regulate 1 See 84 FR 35842 (July 25, 2019). 2 technology must necessarily be flexible enough to adapt to the market while maintaining enough regulatory strength to accomplish its purpose. In the COPPA context, this flexibility is achieved through the use of regulations like the COPPA Rule. If COPPA is to continue to accomplish its purpose, the COPPA Rule must both continue to exist and continue to evolve to meet the needs of a rapidly-changing data landscape. More fundamentally, COPPA (and thereby the COPPA Rule) exists to protect children. Parental consent requirements like those found in COPPA are a reflection of society’s collective belief that because children are more susceptible to deception and exploitation than adults, children are deserving of added legal protections. In the online context, that means no one should be allowed to extract information from a child and use that information to profile and track that child without the express informed consent of that child’s parent or legal guardian, regardless of the market value of doing so. Senator Richard Bryan, the primary author of COPPA, stated it this way: Parents do not always have the knowledge, the ability, or the opportunity to monitor their children's online activities, and that is why Web site operators should get parental consent prior to soliciting personal information. The legislation that Senator McCain and I have introduced will give parents the reassurance that when our children are on the Internet they will not be asked to give out personal information to commercial Web site operators without parental consent.2 The internet has only grown more embedded, and more inextricably intertwined in citizens’ lives over the last twenty years, not less. As more and more of our lives are lived online, and as digital tools make their way into our schools and into our lives at ever-earlier ages, rules like the COPPA Rule must continue not only to exist, but grow and adapt to ever-changing regulatory landscapes. 4. How many small businesses are subject to the Rule? On the digital platform side, almost none. The five largest digital platforms (Google/Alphabet, Facebook, Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft) are among the largest and most valuable companies on Earth. These five companies alone exceed more than $4 trillion in market capitalization, 3 pull in $100 billion in profit annually,4 and are under increasing scrutiny for engaging in anticompetitive behavior.5 These large digital platforms are under scrutiny in part 2 S. 2326: Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998, Hearing before Senate Subcommittee on Communications, S. Hrg. 105-1069, at 4 (Sept. 23, 1998). 3 Zingales, et al., Stigler Committee on Digital Platforms: Policy Brief, Chicago Booth Stigler Center for the Study 

Tuesday, December 10, 2019

In Ypsilanti Moms Demand Action Will Hold Vigil For Victims of Gun Violence


Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Members of the Michigan chapter of Moms Demand Action For Gun Sense In America will be gathering and holding a vigil Thursday, December 12 with members of the community for an event that will honor the seven year mark of the Sandy Hook School shooting. The shooting took the lives of 20 children and six teachers at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown Connecticut. Events will be held across the country to honor all of those affected by gun violence and ask lawmakers to act now to end this crisis.

The event seeks to find hope and determination in order to enact change in local communities. Guest speakers include Brenda Moss, a VA mom whose son was killed by gun violence and who speaks on how to continue going in the face of trauma. Also speaking will be Jackie Johnson, an Ohio minister who works with survivors at the scene of shootings. Local community leaders and legislators will also be speaking at the event.

The vigil will take place from 7-8:30 pm at the Parkridge Community Center located at 591 Armstrong Drive in Ypsilanti.

Sunday, December 8, 2019

Eastern Michigan Will Take On The University of Pittsburgh In The Quick Lane Bowl

Photo Jeff Brown Purple Walrus Press.


Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

The Eastern Michigan Eagles have been selected to play in the Quick Lane Bowl marking their third bowl appearance in four years. On Thursday,  December 26, EMU will take on the University of  Pittsburgh in the 6th annual Quick Lane Bowl at Ford Field. EMU and the Mid American Conference made the announcement on Sunday, December 8. Ypsilanti, and the EMU community couldn't be happier.

The Pitt Panthers play in the ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference) and finished the season at 7-5. Eastern Michigan, out of the Mid American Conference, finished 6-6 after knocking off Illinois from the Big Ten in the second game of the season.

In 2016 EMU played in the Bahamas Bowl losing to Old Dominion. Last year EMU took on Georgia Southern in the Camellia Bowl in Montgomery, Alabama, losing a close one by the score of 23-21.

Eastern Michigan Senior Quarterback Mike Glass has had a stellar season this year for the Eagles racking up 3,203 yards of total offense ranking 17th nationally with an average of 291 per game.

Watch the Quick Lane Bowl December 26 at 8 p.m. on ESPN.

Monday, December 2, 2019

Parola Perspective In Brief: Vietnam, Watergate and Trump Impeachment: By Purple Walrus Press Contributor Brooks Parola Formerly of Flint Town.



People point to Vietnam and Watergate as two big reasons Americans became cynical about the truthfulness of their government. Analysts often found that curious because if anything the way Watergate played out, proved that the system worked.
In the future, analysts and historians will look back at this impeachment, and note how with the incredible corruption of Trump, supported by an equally corrupt GOP made it inevitable that the system would fail.

Saturday, November 30, 2019

Congresswoman Dingell Attends UN Climate Change Conference With Congressional Delegation.



Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) is joining a Congressional Delegation – led by Speaker Nancy Pelosi – to Madrid, Spain for the 2019 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, also known as COP25.

On the visit, Dingell said: “Look around us: devastating hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, melting glaciers and rising sea levels. This week, countries from every corner of the globe are coming together in Madrid for the United Nations Climate Conference. It’s an honor to join Speaker Pelosi and our strong Congressional Delegation in this important mission. The Trump Administration is sadly moving to formally withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement and refuses to acknowledge the science or urgency to act. Participants at COP25 will lay out crucial steps and implement guidelines to reduce greenhouse gases – it’s critical our nation be represented at the coalition. American leadership is at the center of rising to the moment to protect our planet for future generations.” According to a Saturday press release from the office of Debbie Dingell.

cid:image001.png@01D4E0BF.BDCCFBD0
November 30, 2019
Contact: Speaker’s Press Office,
202-226-7616

Pelosi Leads Bicameral Congressional Delegation to Madrid for COP25

Speaker Nancy Pelosi is leading a bicameral Congressional Delegation to Madrid, Spain for the 2019 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, known as COP25.

“It is a privilege to accompany a high-level Congressional delegation to Spain to combat the existential threat of our time: the climate crisis,” said Speaker Pelosi.  “On behalf of the United States Congress, I extend my gratitude to the Spanish government for hosting this critical meeting, and for elevating the priority of the climate crisis to the forefront of the international conversation.”

“Taking action to protect our planet is a public health decision for clean air and clean water for our children, an economic decision for creating the green, good-paying jobs of the future, a national security decision to address resource competition and climate migration and also a moral decision to be good stewards of God’s creation and pass a sustainable, healthy planet to the next generation,” Speaker Pelosi continued. “On behalf of the U.S. Congress, I am proud to travel to COP25 to reaffirm the commitment of the American people to combating the climate crisis.” This according to Saturday's Press release.

The Members of the Congressional Delegation are:
  • Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)
  • Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) 
  • Chairman Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Committee on Energy and Commerce
  • Chairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX), Committee on Science, Space, Technology
  • Chairman Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ), Committee on Natural Resources                 
  • Chairwoman Kathy Castor (D-FL), Select Committee on the Climate Crisis
  • Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D-MN)   
  • Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR)  
  • Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA)  
  • Congressman Jared Huffman (D-CA)       
  • Congressman Scott Peters (D-CA)            
  • Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) 
  • Congressman Mike Levin (D-CA)    
  • Congressman Sean Casten (D-IL)   
  • Congressman Joe Neguse (D-CO) 

Monday, November 25, 2019

University of Michigan and Ohio State Students To Join Together And Hold Demonstration On Climate Change In Ann Arbor Saturday.

Yale and Harvard university students and alumni protest during football game demanding action on climate change Nov 23.



Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

University of Michigan and Ohio State University students plan to join together and demonstrate in support of climate action on Saturday, November 30 in Ann Arbor. According to organizers, the demonstration will take place at 10:30 AM at the corner of South Main Street and East Davis Avenue just prior to the start of the Ohio State vs Michigan football game at Michigan Stadium. South Main and Davis is located only a few blocks away from the Michigan Stadium.

Students from both universities are planning to paint themselves purple, which is meant to symbolize Republicans (Red) and Democrats (Blue) coming together in solidarity.

Sunday, November 24, 2019

Undefeated Eastern Michigan Men's Basketball Team Defeats North Carolina A&T In Jamaican Classic Tournament Game and Brings Home Championship Trophy.


Photo by Jeff Brown Purple Walrus Press.


Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

The Eastern Michigan Men's basketball team defeated North Carolina A&T Sunday in the Jersey Mike's Jamaican Classic Tournament in Montego Bay, Jamaica and remain undefeated in this 2019-20  season. The 6-0 EMU Eagles got off to a shaky start in today's game but soared back in the second half to snag a nifty 58-54 victory over North Carolina A&T to win the tournament Rose Hall Championship.

Eastern Michigan hasn't been 6-0 since 2014. Credit Coach Murphy and a close-knit EMU group of players. Eastern played stingy defense Sunday holding at bay a late come-back attempt by an aggressive North Carolina team. Eastern averaged 13 steals a game in the tournament which was a strong factor in Eastern's tournament victories in the Jamaican Classic tournament.

High scorers for EMU were Noah Morgan who notched 12 points, Shamar Dillard scored 12, and Yeikson Montero sunk 10. Eastern finished today's game with an impressive 10 steals.

Eastern got off to a uncharacteristic slow start Sunday as they were down by double digits early in the first half, however, the second half proved to be another story. A couple of 3 pointers in the second half set the tone for a nice victory over a pesky North Carolina team.

Next up Eastern Michigan will take on UC Irvine on the road in California on Saturday, November
30. Tip off will be at 7 PM.


Photos Jeff Brown Purple Walrus Press.



On The Flint Water Crisis: By Purple Walrus Press Contributor And Activist Melissa Mays of Flint: Water Crisis Drags On.




What blows my mind is that the #FlintWaterCrisis has been dragging on for 2,027 and while the world says "Oh my, what about the children," the City, County and State Education Systems continue to fail our kids. Instead of putting in the proper special education supports and screening these kids properly, kids are being suspended for "behavioral issues." The schools should be seeing if these behaviors are lead or disability related or what it is and HELP THEM, not send them home for the parents to be helpless on how to help AND deny these kids the proper education and supports promised to them. Flint families are innocent but are continuing to be failed by the systems and agencies that exist to help.

By Melissa Mays of Flint.

On Politics: By Purple Walrus Press Contributor Bob Resch: PRESIDENT PELOSI? It Could Happen.




When Ambassador Gordon Sondland testified at the impeachment hearings and said "EVERYONE WAS IN THE LOOP ", and "EVERYONE KNEW IT WAS A QUID PRO QUO", there should have been alarm bells going off in each and everyone of our heads!

The "Everybody included Trump, Pence, Pompeo, Mulvaney, Bolton and Giuliani.  THE GANG THAT COULDN'T SHOOT STRAIGHT!

But, there's a silver lining to every black cloud.  I believe the GOP now has a sustainable path to redemption.   Remove Trump's dictator style of rule through impeachment so the Republicans can pursue their traditional conservative stance, limited central government and a strong national defense.   Pence, Pompeo and Mulvaney would have to leave as well since they knew and silently went along with the freezing of the Defense Funds to Ukraine in exchange for an announcement for an investigation of dirt on the Bidens and a meeting with Trump at the White House.  

THESE ARE THE INDISPUTABLE FACTS! 

That is unless you're one of the 22 PARANOID Republicans up for re-election in 2020 and who would support Trump even if he shot someone on 5th Avenue for no apparent reason.

This would allow a new crop of Republicans to run in the 2020 election.

And no matter who is elected in 2020, be it a Democrat or Republican,  it's time for  a new Choice.  A new Voice.  New ideas.  A New administration.  Someone who could unite and not divide the nation and ultimately repair and recover relations with our allies around the World.

It would also open up a startling new possibility for the next year.   PRESIDENT PELOSI.    Like it or not.  It could happen!!

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Parola Perspective In Brief: By Purple Walrus Press Contributor Brooks Parola: Jim Jordan Comes Up W/ Garbage In Impeachment Hearing Wednesday.

The GOP is whining that this impeachment inquiry is nothing but a partisan smear campaign against Trump, and yet Jim Jordan comes up with complete garbage like this. Someone (press, Dems, someone) needs to hold him accountable, and demand he produce SPECIFIC people who "questioned Vindman's judgement".
This is right out of the Joe McCarthy playbook: "I have a list of 200 communists working in our government!"

Michigan Attorney General Nessel Announces Second Conviction In Clergy Abuse Investigation Wednesday.



Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

 Hours after the first convicted defendant in Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel’s clergy abuse investigation was sentenced, Nessel announced the second conviction in her department’s ongoing investigation, according to a Wednesday press release from the Attorney General's office.

According to Wednesday's statement, Brian Stanley, 57, of Coloma, pleaded guilty to one felony count of Attempted False Imprisonment during his final pretrial conference today before Allegan County Circuit Court Chief Judge Margaret Bakker. Stanley faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and will be required to register as a sex offender for 15 years.

Stanley was charged in August after being accused of secreting away a teenaged boy and holding him against his will in the janitor’s room of St. Margaret’s Church in 2013. Stanley reportedly immobilized the young man by wrapping him tightly in plastic wrap, then used masking tape as additional binding and to cover his eyes and mouth. Stanley left the victim, bound and alone, in the janitor’s room for an extended period of time before returning and eventually letting him go, according to the press release.

“Mr. Stanley’s decision to plead guilty to Attempted False Imprisonment ensures that he will be held accountable for the pain and suffering he has caused,” Nessel said. “His guilty plea marks the second conviction in our aggressive pursuit of justice for all those who have been victimized by priests or members of the clergy. Our department remains steadfast in its commitment to bringing a swift end to an era of abuse that has hidden in plain sight for too long.” This according to the Attorney General's office.

Stanley’s sentencing date has been set for January 27, 2020.

Monday, November 18, 2019

Rollover Collision Corner of Washtenaw and Mansfield in Ypsilanti Monday Evening.

Photo Jeff Brown Purple Walrus Press.

Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

A rollover collision occurred Monday night at the intersection of Washtenaw and Mansfield in Ypsilanti. The two car crash happened at approximately 6:00 pm. Ypsilanti Police and the Ypsilanti Fire Department responded to the scene. Both vehicles were heavily damaged. Ypsilanti Police informed Purple Walrus Press that there were no injuries.

The accident caused a back-up on Washtenaw between Hewitt and Mansfield. As of 6:30 pm the scene of the accident began to clear.

Photos Jeff Brown Purple Walrus Press.


Sunday, November 17, 2019

Posthumous Harry Nilsson Album Release Coming Soon: Material Meant for release before his death



Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

There once was a rock singer named Harry Nilsson. By all accounts Harry was a real hamisher guy. Hamisher is Yiddish for a down to earth, unpretentious and personable guy. Harry was not only known for his eclectic and multi-styled singing voice, but for also being a partier of legendary portions, just ask his old buddy Ringo Starr. If you ask, Ringo will most certainly tell you that Harry was John Lennon's favorite drinking buddy in the mid seventies.

Harry Nilson's break-through song was "Everybody's Talkin" from the 1969 movie Midnight Cowboy. The song peaked at no.2 on Billboard in the United States.

In 1994 Harry died of a heart attack at age 52. He had stopped recording after 1980 but had completed a set of demos slated for a new album to be released in 1992. Word is that the label rejected his new material implying it was dated sounding. Harry walked out. Shame on the record label.

Fast-forward to November 2019 and guess what? Yep, those demos have been polished and will be released in four days as an album titled Losst And Found. Consider Losst And Found to be Nilsson's first release of new material since 1980.

This new album is most incredible news for Nilsson fans, including yours truly.

Demonstrators Will March Sunday Demanding Affordable Housing In Ann Arbor.



Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Demonstrators will march today (Sunday) in downtown Ann Arbor in a call for affordable housing in the city.

Demonstrators participating in the "March for Affordable Housing Now" will gather at Liberty Plaza in downtown Ann Arbor at 1 pm prior to the march.

In recent years affordable housing has become an ever-increasing concern in Ann Arbor.

Saturday, November 16, 2019

Taylor Swift's Plea To Fans In Light of Unfair Restrictions On Her Music.



Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Folks, the music industry can be cut-throat and at times artists and musicians can become victimized by companies who attempt to control artists, their creativity and ability to make their own decisions regarding their own music. Presently, Taylor Swift is going through a horrible ordeal as, according to Swift,  her music is being restricted by Scott Borchetta who owns Big Machine Records. Below is a plea to fans written and released by Swift on Thursday, November 15. Swift is asking her fans to let Scott Borchetta and Scooter Braun know how they feel about Swift being bound to harsh and unfair restrictions regarding songs she wrote and created. Read Taylor Swift's plea below.


                                                      Don't Know What Else To Do.

Guys - It’s been announced recently that the American Music Awards will be honoring me with the Artist of the Decade Award at this year’s ceremony. I’ve been planning to perform a medley of my hits throughout the decade on the show. Scott Borchetta and Scooter Braun have now said that I’m not allowed to perform my old songs on television because they claim that would be re-recording my music before I’m allowed to next year. Additionally - and this isn’t the way I had planned on telling you this news - Netflix has created a documentary about my life for the past few years. Scott and Scooter have declined the use of my older music or performance footage for this project, even though there is no mention of either of them or Big Machine Records anywhere in the film.
Scott Borchetta told my team that they’ll allow me to use my music only if I do these things: If I agree to not re-record copycat versions of my songs next year (which is something I’m both legally allowed to do and looking forward to) and also told my team that I need to stop talking about him and Scooter Braun.
I feel very strongly that sharing what is happening to me could change the awareness level for other artists and potentially help them avoid a similar fate. The message being sent to me is very clear. Basically, be a good little girl and shut up. Or you’ll be punished.
This is WRONG. Neither of these men had a hand in the writing of those songs. They did nothing to create the relationship I have with my fans. So this is where I’m asking for your help.
Please let Scott Borchetta and Scooter Braun know how you feel about this. Scooter also manages several artists who I really believe care about other artists and their work. Please ask them for help with this - I’m hoping that maybe they can talk some sense into the men who are exercising tyrannical control over someone who just wants to play the music she wrote. I’m especially asking for help from The Carlyle Group, who put up money for the sale of my music to these two men.
I just want to be able to perform MY OWN music. That’s it. I’ve tried to work this out privately through my team but have not been able to resolve anything. Right now my performance at the AMA’s, the Netflix documentary and any other recorded events I am planning to play until November of 2020 are a question mark.
I love you guys and I thought you should know what’s been going on.
Taylor

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

Congresswomen Debbie Dingell Releases Statement on Trump Administration's Formal Withdrawal From Paris Climate Accord.

Photo Jeff Brown Purple Walrus Press.


Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-12) has released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s formal withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord:

“President Trump’s decision to move forward with withdrawing the United States from the Paris Climate Accord is stunning, but not surprising. As the California fires rage, even the biggest climate deniers have to see that global climate change is real.

“At this consequential moment, the United States of America should be leading all countries in the fight against climate change and not pulling back from the world stage. This is an existential threat we all must face together. Bold, urgent actions and defined goals are needed. Let’s set our course to achieving a 100 percent clean, net-zero economy—as called for in the United Nations IPCC 2018 climate report.

“My colleagues and I are working on legislation to set this ambitious goal. Introduction and more details on the 100% Clean Economy Act will be coming soon. It’s only through American might, ingenuity, and leadership that we can rise to meet this moment for future generations and the planet we call home."

Saturday, November 2, 2019

Parola Perspective: By Purple Walrus Press Contributor Brooks Parola: On Perpetuating Double Standards In Washington..

PWP contributor Brooks Parola.
Once again, I'm very disturbed on several levels. No, I don't think we should stoop to the level of GOP males, and yet if we forced all of them to resign (who had affairs) we'd have complete control of congress, and many of the state legislatures, (and yes, I know that Dems do it too). But again, we're cannibalizing ourselves, as we are the only side playing by the rules.
So not only do we continue to help perpetuate the double standard, we continue to let the other side have the upper hand, as they do what they please, while we insist on destroying our own through purity tests. People get divorces folks, and yes, they also have affairs...to quote Mulvaney: "Get Over it!" I'm so glad we're finally at a point with weed, where candidates no longer have to sound as stupid as Clinton did, when in his desperation to justify his weed smoking, he claimed not to have inhaled. I can't wait until we reach the same level of acceptance re. many more of our other human foibles.

Friday, November 1, 2019

Business On Michigan Avenue In Ypsilanti Robbed At Gunpoint Thursday Evening.



By Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

The Ypsilanti Police Department informed Purple Walrus Press that an armed robbery occurred Thursday night, October 31, at a business located in the 10 block of  West Michigan Avenue in Ypsilanti. According to Ypsilanti Police, two subjects wearing masks and gloves entered the business.
 Both subjects were armed with handguns and demanded money. The suspects emptied the register before fleeing on foot. According to police,  K9 tracking was unsuccessful. The investigation continues.

Stay tuned to Purple Walrus Press for updates.

Thursday, October 31, 2019

Michigan Department of Health And Human Services Continues Food Giveaway In Flint.



Editor & Publisher Jeff Brown.

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 November at locations throughout Flint.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has provided the Flint mobile food pantries since February 2016 in partnership with the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan in Flint.

All mobile food pantry sites distribute foods rich in calcium, vitamin C and iron. Food available in November will include apples, potatoes, cabbage and hard squash. Food distribution sites will remain open while supplies last, according to the MDHHS press release.

“At MDHHS, one of our top priorities is making sure families, seniors and individuals who are in need have easy access to nutritious food,” said Erin Frisch, the department’s senior chief deputy director for opportunity. “This is especially important in Flint – where residents were exposed to lead as a result of the water crisis.”
November dates by location are:
  • Asbury United Methodist Church, 1653 Davison Road
    • Monday, Nov. 4, at 10 a.m.
    • Tuesday, Nov. 12, at 10 a.m.
    • Tuesday, Nov. 19, at 10 a.m.
    • Tuesday, Nov. 26, at 10 a.m.
  • Greater Holy Temple, 6702 N. Dort Hwy
    • Tuesday, Nov. 5, at 10 a.m.
    • Thursday, Nov. 14, at 10 a.m.
    • Thursday, Nov. 21, at 10 a.m.
  • Calvary United Methodist Church, 2111 Flushing Road
    • Thursday, Nov. 7, at 10:30 a.m.
  • Flint Muslim Food Pantry, 4400 S. Saginaw St.
    • Friday, Nov. 8, at 9 a.m.
  • Flint First Wesleyan Church, 3825 Davison Road
    • Friday, Nov. 8, at 10 a.m.
  • Bethel United Methodist Church, 1309 Ballenger Hwy.
    • Monday, Nov. 11, at 10 a.m.
    • Monday, Nov. 18, at 10 a.m.
    • Monday, Nov. 25, at 10 a.m.
  • Salem Lutheran Church, 2610 Martin Luther King Ave.
    • Wednesday, Nov. 13, at 10 a.m.
  • St. Luke’s NEW Life Center, 3115 Lawndale Ave.
    • Friday, Nov. 15, at 10 a.m.
  • Second Chance Church, 5306 North St.
    • Saturday, Nov. 16, at 9 a.m.
  • Hispanic Tech Center, 2101 Lewis St.
    • Wednesday, Nov. 20, at 10 a.m.
  • Urban Renaissance Center, 2505 N. Chevrolet Ave.
    • Tuesday, Nov. 26, at 11 a.m.
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 according to MDHHS.

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.