Save the Date! - Spring 2019 - University District Community Association
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
University District
Community Association
Spring 2019
PO Box 21483
Detroit, MI 48221
Save the Date!
Mix & Mingle is Sat. June 22 | UDCA Annual Picnic is Sat. July 27th
䘀刀䔀䔀 栀愀猀栀琀愀最 挀甀琀ⴀ漀甀琀
漀渀 礀漀甀爀 昀椀爀猀琀 戀漀漀欀椀渀最 椀昀 礀漀甀
洀攀渀琀椀漀渀 唀䐀䌀䄀℀
伀䘀䘀䔀刀䤀一䜀
伀瀀攀渀ⴀ愀椀爀 瀀栀漀琀漀 戀漀漀琀栀 ⼀ 䤀洀洀攀搀椀愀琀攀 瀀栀漀琀漀 搀漀眀渀氀漀愀搀猀 昀漀爀 礀漀甀爀 最甀攀猀琀猀
䠀椀最栀ⴀ焀甀愀氀椀琀礀 瀀爀漀昀攀猀猀椀漀渀愀氀 瀀栀漀琀漀猀 ⼀ 䐀椀最椀琀愀氀 漀渀氀礀 漀爀 瀀爀椀渀琀攀搀 瀀栀漀琀漀 瀀愀挀欀愀最攀猀
吀眀漀 攀渀最愀最椀渀最 戀漀漀琀栀 栀漀猀琀猀
倀䔀刀䘀䔀䌀吀 䘀伀刀
䌀漀洀洀甀渀椀琀礀 愀渀搀 瀀甀戀氀椀挀 攀瘀攀渀琀猀 ⼀ 一漀渀ⴀ瀀爀漀昀椀琀 昀甀渀搀爀愀椀猀攀爀猀 ⼀ 䘀攀猀琀椀瘀愀氀猀
倀爀椀瘀愀琀攀 瀀愀爀琀椀攀猀 ⼀ 圀攀搀搀椀渀最猀
䈀伀伀䬀 吀伀䐀䄀夀
栀攀氀氀漀䀀戀漀渀搀漀戀漀漀琀栀⸀挀漀洀 ⼀ ⠀㌀㌀⤀ ㈀㐀㈀ 㜀㘀㤀㈀ ⼀ 戀漀渀搀漀戀漀漀琀栀⸀挀漀洀
䘀椀渀搀 甀猀 漀渀 䤀渀猀琀愀最爀愀洀 愀渀搀 䘀愀挀攀戀漀漀欀 䀀戀漀渀搀漀戀漀漀琀栀 ⌀戀漀渀搀漀戀漀漀琀栀
In this Issue
Letter From the President
10 Things That Make University District
33
4-6
udca
Truly Great
DTE Energy To Begin Property Damage 7
Restoration
In Memoriam 8
Block Captains Make Neighborhood Better 8
Volunteering in University District 10
Who You Gonna Call? 12
Our Changing Mosaic 16
Get the Improve Detroit App 19
Don’t Let Your Guard Down Now 20
UDCA 2019 Calendar of Events 20
udca NEWSLETTER
Security Patrol Invoice 21 Editor
UDCA Youth Committee Helps Connect 22 Brenda Goss Andrews
Families in the Community
Feature Editor
Programs Can Help Property Owners 23 Asenath Andrews
Pay Taxes
Meet the 2019 UDCA Board of Directors! 24 Features
Corrine Lyons
R.I.P. University District Cookbook 26 Willie Brake
Photography
Receiving UDCA emails? Robert Friday
Sign up for our emails at Curtis Smith
www.udca.info to receive
information on upcoming Marketing
events and news around the Joyce Reid
neighborhood.
Ad Manager
Keep up with UDCA meetings, Doug Pederson
events, bulk pick-up and recycling
days, and more by visiting our
UDCA calendar on our website.
www.udca.info/calendar
The University District NEWSLETTER is published in March,
June, September, and December. Its purpose is to inform
residents of activities and matters of common interest and
concern. Residents are encouraged to submit articles and
advertisements. The NEWSLETTER retains the right to edit
articles and refuse publication.
www.udca.info
Advanced Home Care
“Going Beyond Your Health Care Needs Since 1999”
®
“Let me be your home care nurse.
If you’re recovering from a hospital
stay, surgery, need one on one
assistance from a board certificated
registered nurse, let me, Pandora
Andrews, be your choice.”
MEDICARE CERTIFIED INSURANCES ACCEPTED
▶ Services Provided ▶ Medicare
▶ Common Conditions ▶ Medicare Advantage
▶ Insurance Coverage Explanation ▶ BCBS
▶ Private Duty ▶ Medicare Plus Blue and other PPO’s
▶ Brain Injury ▶ All Automotive Insurances
▶ Spinal Cord Injury ▶ Workman’s Comp
▶ Geriatric Care ▶ Long Term Care Insurances
▶ Rehabilitation Services ▶ Variety of Provider Networks and Private Pay
▶ Developmental Disabilities
SPECIALTIES
Advanced Home Care provides in-home care for patients of all ages. We specialize in caring for
patients with a wide variety of conditions including:
▶ Catastrophic Brain and ▶ Rehabilitation Services
Spinal Cord Injuries ▶ Skilled Home Care following hospital
▶ Geriatric Care stays and rehabilitation
Medicare Certified Home Care Division Accredited by The Joint Commission
CONTACT: PRIVATE DUTY DIVISION REHABILITATION SERVICES
Toll Free: 866.605.0069 Toll Free: 866.605.0070 Functional Home Evaluations
Phone: 248.588.0069 Phone: 248-588-0340 PT, OT, SLP
Fax: 248.588.0234 Fax: 248-284-1101
2 Spring 2019
The PGA is Coming to the Detroit Golf Club
– Let’s Get Ready!
On June 24th the Rocket Mortgage Classic will
be coming to the Detroit Golf Club. Right in our
backyard. It will make history as the first PGA TOUR
event ever held in the city of Detroit. It features
some of the world’s top players, competing for a $7
million purse over four days. The week-long event will
also feature great entertainment, cuisine, and social
activities on and off the course.
How can you participate?
• Attend - Instead of walking the neighborhood, walk the golf course. I’m
sure it will be beautiful and the event will be on national television for
four days! It will be nice to see our neighbors on the course. Let’s make
sure the UDCA is well represented!
• Volunteer - there will be all kinds of volunteer opportunities that might
make the experience more enjoyable for you and your family. This is a
multi-year commitment - for at least four, and up to ten years. Something
may catch your eye and you can continue to participate over the years.
• Entertain - Host a theme event at your home. Even if you’re not a golfer,
it’s a great excuse for a party.
• Spruce up - After the DTE gas line upgrade, we all want to clean up
outside. I can very easily see our neighborhood getting national press.
Smile!
• Golf fan or not, let’s all try to enjoy this week. After all, if Detroit does
this well – and I’m sure we will – it will become an annual Summer event
for our neighborhood; and if it’s going to be here, we should enjoy it.
• It also seems that as they continue to improve the tournament every year
and the event creates a buzz in the community and the city, isn’t it a
“no-brainer” to have a golf course for the citizens of our district?
Support the Palmer Park Public Golf Course!
Sincerely,
Lucius Gunn
UDCA President
www.udca.info 3
10 THINGS That Make University
District Truly Great
When you are in the market for a new place to live, it helps to remember the
golden rule of real estate: You’re not just buying or renting a home – you are
also buying into and becoming a part of a neighborhood.
As anyone who’s moved a few times knows, not all neighborhoods are
created equal. There is no such thing as the perfect neighborhood, because not
all areas are going to be truly a perfect fit for everyone and their unique needs.
A truly great neighborhood is one in sync with your current lifestyle. Both
renters and homebuyers tend to gravitate to areas with similar demographics.
The University District was established as a residential community in the
mid 1920s. The district was part of the largest tract of land in the area known
as the Golf Club District. The residential area adjacent to the University of
Detroit became known as the University District. Most of the 1,200 homes in
the area were built in the 1920s and 30s during the Golden Age of Housing.
1 PRIDE IN OWNERSHIP
All great neighborhoods have this in common. Pride in ownership is obvious
when the residents, whether renters or owners, maintain their homes and care
about their neighborhood. Neighbors participate to connect and create local
groups that bring the residents together for the betterment of the area.
2 LOW CRIME RATE
Low crime rates give a neighborhood a sense of ease and calm. As safety
and security are everyone’s concern, crime is a quick way to tell if a
neighborhood is improving or not. You can usually spot a transitional and
improving neighborhood by the improvement or decline in its crime rates.
University District has one of the lowest crime rates in the city of Detroit.
Contributing to the low crime rates are active residents, a paid subscriber
patrol and a volunteer radio patrol.
4 Spring 2019
10 THINGS That Make University
District Truly Great
3 GREAT SCHOOLS AND UNIVERSITIES|
For homeowners and renters with children, great schools top their list of
what makes a great neighborhood. Not only are great schools important for
families with children, they also make the surrounding neighborhoods more
valuable and more sought after, keeping property values strong. We have
Gesu School, Palmer Park Prep Montesori, and nearby, Renaissance High
School and the University of Detroit Jesuit High School. We also have a
major university in the University of Detroit Mercy as an anchor institution
to our neighborhood.
4 OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
The University District is close to the outdoor adventures which can sweeten
the appeal of our neighborhood. We are close to Palmer Park which has
tennis courts, picnic areas and walking paths. We are adjacent to the Palmer
Park public golf course and the Detroit Golf Club.
5 STEPPING BACK IN TIME
The University District has 1,200 homes on beautiful tree-lined streets that
contributes to the feel of an older, established neighborhood. The spectacular
architectural detail of the homes along with a rich history makes our
community very desirable. We are located in close proximity to three other
prestigious Detroit neighborhoods, Sherwood Forest, Palmer Woods and
the Golf Club District. In addition, the many longtime University District
residents and community support are a plus.
6 THE UNIVERSITY DISTRICT COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION (UDCA)
We have a strong elected resident volunteer organization. The University
District Community Association strives to maintain and support the integrity
of the neighborhood, provide communication of events and issues to its
residents, promote a quality education in our local school while maintaining
health, safety and happiness in a family friendly diverse community.
7 FAMILY FRIENDLY
University District has lots of families in the neighborhood. There are
opportunities for children to play, socialize, and make lifelong friends.
Sporting events at the University of Detroit Mercy offer great family
entertainment attractions. Belden Park and the playground at Gesu are great
for small children.
www.udca.info 5
10 THINGS That Make University
District Truly Great
CLOSE TO PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION,
8 MAJOR THOROUGHFARES AND FREEWAYS
The University District has easy access to public transportation. The
Woodward bus can take you north to the suburbs and south to downtown.
The Dexter bus can also quickly take you downtown and to midtown. We are
located close to two major thoroughfares, Woodward Ave., which runs north
and south and Eight Mile Road, which runs east and west. We have two
major freeways close by with I-75 and the Lodge Freeway.
9 NEARBY SHOPPING AND RESTAURANTS
If you want to be part of the hustle and bustle (and don’t want to cook dinner
every night), the University District has restaurants, retail, and markets
only minutes away on Livernois. A little further out is Royal Oak, Ferndale
and downtown Detroit. Meijer’,s Savon, and Mr. Mike’s grocery stores are
nearby as well.
10 NIGHTLIFE AND ENTERTAINMENT
The University District has its own Avenue of Fashion with local restaurants
and entertainment venues such as Baker’s jazz club and the local bar, called
the Locker Room, to name a few. Further, the University District is located
only minutes away from movie theaters, restaurants and bars, to the north,
in Ferndale and Royal Oak. And is just minutes away, via the freeway,
to downtown Detroit’s theaters, major sporting venues, museums and
restaurants.
For more information about the University District, go to: www.udca.info
6 Spring 2019
DTE Energy To Begin Property Damage Restoration
by Curtis Smith
Last fall, DTE Energy conducted a
significant natural gas upgrade in the
University District. DTE replaced
natural gas lines and moved natural
gas meters from inside basements to
the exterior in the front or the side of
homes. DTE construction activities may
have disturbed your lawns, flower beds,
driveways, sprinkler systems and/or
sidewalks. Further, some residents may
still have a temporary patch in place.
Please rest assured that DTE will fully restore any property damages that
they are responsible for. DTE property restoration efforts will begin in May
2019 as the weather permits. DTE plans to complete the restoration work in
the University District by June 30, 2019.
If you have an in-ground sprinkler systems, please check your system as
soon as the weather permits and notify DTE at the phone number below if it
was damaged.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact DTE at 313.270.9240.
A DTE representative is available from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday
through Friday. All calls will be returned no later than the next business day.
www.udca.info 7
In Memoriam
Kenneth Earl Sanders
Loving Father, Husband and Friend
Passed away quietly at home on February 9, 2019
surrounded by his devoted family and friends.
Ken’s infectious smile and go-getting attitude will be
missed. Ken was a UDCA resident for over 10 years , a
member of the Birchcrest Block Club and a former UDCA
Board Member.
Our sincere condolences go out to the Sanders family.
The UDCA Board.
Block Captains Make Neighborhood Better
My name is Curtis Smith. I am the new Committee Chair of
the University District Block Captains Committee. There are
over seven billion people in the world. We in the University
District are fortunate to live in the same community at the
same point in time. I am honored to volunteer alongside a
group of University District residents whose job as Block
Captain is, essentially, to communicate information to their
neighbors to make our neighborhood a better place. The bi-
monthly Block Captains’ meetings are special to me because
they allow me the opportunity to hear the collective wisdom of the participants,
many who have lived in the University District for decades.
Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.”
University District Block captains fulfill this mantra because they exemplify
“the change they want to see in the University District.” Block captains make
a meaningful contribution to the quality of life in the University District.
We have six block captain meetings a year. We meet every other month on
the second Saturday from 9 AM to 10:30 AM, at the Gesu Community Parish
located at 17180 Oak Drive.
The dates for the remaining 2019 Block Captains meetings are:
Saturday, June 8, 2019 Saturday, October 12, 2019
Saturday, August 10, 2019 Saturday, December 14, 2019
Please consider becoming a Block Captain. We need your participation.
For more information, please contact Curtis Smith at 313-590-6317 or at
curtndi@aol.com
8 Spring 2019The University District‘s Own Coffee Shop
Now OPEN & caffeinating the UD!
Stop in and bring a neighbor!
▪ Family- and locally-owned and operated
▪ Sister store in Ferndale
▪ Located at 18685 Livernois between Clarita & Margareta
▪ Open: 6am – 7pm
▪ Featuring our signature:
- Coffee you love: fresh brewed,
whole bean or ground Coupon:
- Teas & Hot Chocolate
- Sandwiches, snacks & more
Good for one free
10 oz. Caramel Marvel
Valid Only at Biggby 18685 Livernois
Limit one per customer.
Coupon must be in book to be valid.
Coupon will be countersigned by Biggby
Livernois employee.
Open since December Coupon expires 30 June 2019
www.udca.info 9Volunteering in University District
By Jessica Bondalapati
All my life I remember giving my time as a volunteer. In high school, I
coordinated National Honor Society volunteer opportunities. In college, I ran
clubs focused on social justice and human rights work. When I graduated,
I signed up for AmeriCorps to give a year of service. When I started to
work and juggling my time became a more serious endeavour, I found
opportunities to contribute in a schedule that made sense for me. I have made
volunteering a part of my life because I have seen the positive and lasting
impact a few hours here and there has on transforming an idea into a reality.
When my husband and I moved into University District in 2017, I knew
I would find a way to give my time to the Snell and University District
Community Association, but I had to be careful not to overextend myself.
I wanted to be helpful but being newly married and a new business owner
took up most of my time. I decided to reach out directly to the board and
find an opportunity where my skills and time matched their needs. I was
asked to facilitate the 2018 board retreat which included working with our
vice president to create the agenda. Not only was this a very low lift for me
because I already enjoyed facilitation, it was an excellent way for me to see
first hand the impact of the UDCA on our neighborhood and how important it
is to support this organization’s efforts any way that I can.
Volunteering is critical in a community like ours where no one is going to
do the work for us and where the area around us is changing rapidly. This
year the UDCA is committed to increasing resident engagement through
volunteering in order to achieve our goals for growth. We have launched
a volunteer subcommittee chaired by myself and board member Angela
Vincent. Through this committee we share monthly volunteer opportunities,
connect with new and interested residents about getting involved, host a
monthly meeting to get to know the skills of our neighbors and connect
them with the right opportunity, and celebrate our achievements as a 100%
volunteer-run organization throughout the year.
We would love to connect with you personally about what excites you about
our neighborhood and get you involved at the time commitment and capacity
that makes sense for you. Our neighborhood is a great example of what a
small group of passionate neighbors can do with a few hours here and there.
However, the impact would be even greater if we increased the number of
people contributing their time.
Continued on next page
10 Spring 2019Volunteering in University District
By Jessica Bondalapati
UDCA Volunteer Committee Details
Contact info: Monthly Meetings
volunteer@udca.info Last Thursday from 6-7pm at Biggby
Current Volunteer Opportunities
MEMBERSHIP: support membership efforts through door knocking,
flyering, and calling residents for membership dues
NEWSLETTER: Write an article; reach out to local businesses to
offer an ad in the newsletter
YOUTH: Plan the easter egg hunt at Belden park
SCHOOLS: Help with school day volunteer needs (11:30-1:30 daily
lunch room monitoring volunteers, reading tutors, any tutoring
help), community awareness and outreach help
COMMUNICATIONS: Writers for blog posts, graphic designers to
support creating templates for digital newsletter, social media
posts - Facebook and Instagram, website (Wordpress) help needed
SOCIAL: Day of event tasks
BEAUTIFICATION: Planting and cleaning on neighborhood clean-up
days, general cleaning around the neighborhood
SAFETY AND SECURITY: Neighborhood patrol in your car
BLOCK CAPTAINS: Be a block captain if your block is empty or meet
your block captain to support his/her efforts
www.udca.info 11“REAL ESTATE WITH A PASSION”
Brenda Goss Andrews, ABR, SRS
Professional Realtor
Let our Experienced Team of Professionals assist you
with Market Analysis Comparisons, Residential and
Commercial Sales and Leases, Investment Portfolios
• UDCA Resident since 1992
• City Planning Commissioner
3DX Real Estate
42705 Grand River, Suite 201 • Retired Detroit Police Deputy Chief
Novi, Michigan 48375
Commercial and Residential Sales & Leases
brenda@3dxonline.com | Mobile: 313-910-3860
Who You Gonna Call?
District 2 Numbers to Keep
Roy McCalister, Kim Tandy,
District 2 Councilmember District 2 Manager
313-224-4535 313-236-3494
Email: councilmemberMcCalister@detroitmi.gov Email: TandyK@detroitmi.gov
Brenda Jones, Sean Davis,
City Council President & Councilmember at Large Deputy District 2 Manager
313-224-1245 313-236-3489
Email: bjones_mb@detroitmi.gov Email: DavisSe@detroitmi.gov
Janee Ayers, Ammie Celita Woodruff,
Councilmember at Large District Business Liasion
313-224-4248 313-510-8261
Email: councilmemberayers@detroitmi.gov Email: awoodruff@degc.org
Evette Griffie, Monica Spears,
Police Commissioner District 2 BSEED Inspector
313-596-1836 313-970-6188
Email: GriffieE@detroitmi.gov Email: Sparksmo@detroitmi.gov
12 Spring 2019SAVE THE DATE!
UDCA Home Tour
Sunday, September 13, 2020
www.udcaonline.comUniversity District Community Association
Membership Payment Form = $60.00
Please complete this form and submit it with your payment.
Interested in supporting the UDCA? Please check the area(s) that best suit your interest!
c Beautification c Safety / Security c Home / Garden Tour
c Block Captain / Block c School Partnership c Membership
Cub c Youth Projects c Newsletter / Website /
c Social and Events c Historic Society Social Media /
c Family Activities c Zoning Communications
c Residential Standards c Garage / Yard Sale Senior Activity Committee
UDCA Property Address: ____________________________________________________________________
Home Phone: ______________________________________________ Year you Moved Here: ____________
UDCA Resident Contact Information (Fill in for at least one resident and please print)
First Name Last Name Cell Phone EmailPayment Options: You can pay your membership dues online by visiting https://www.udca.info/join, or fill out
the form below and send it to UDCA, PO Box 21483, Detroit, MI 48221.
Amount Submitted: $________ Payment Type: c Check c Money Order Cash
c Check
Check or Money Order Number: ___________
CREDIT CARD AUTHORIZATION FORM:
Card Type: c Visa c MasterCard c Discover c American Express
Credit Card Number: _____________________________________________________ Exp Date: _____/_____
Billing Address: ________________________________ City: _______________ State: _______ Zip: ________
Name on Card: _____________________________ Authorized Signature: _____________________________
Would you like to be placed on recurring billing? If you select recurring billing, you will receive a $10.00
discount and we will automatically charge your card every year to renew your membership. c Yes c No
Administrative Use Only: Rec By: _____________ Rec Date: __________ Dep Date: ___________
Web Activation By: _____________ Web Activation Date: ___________Our Changing Mosaic
By Mary Jo Smith
We have all heard the recent discussions about how Detroit is changing, and
the various analyses of those changes. Radio Patrol has been noting how we
are seeing some of the results in our neighborhood and we provide an update
from our perspective.
Safety and Security: Our neighborhood continues to function with remarkably
low rates of most crimes. Our biggest issue, usually unnamed, is the cost we
pay with our insurance rates. We are watching courts and the legislature.
Burglaries are infrequent and in recent months the few incidents often
included notable carelessness on the part of the neighbor (We have more than
1,200 households, and most months have no burglaries). Too many of us have
been careless with keys and/or lockboxes - particularly risky when others are
watching.
Most of the [again rare] assaults stem from domestic/family disputes. New
programs to assist victims of domestic violence are available through the
police department. Our 12th Precinct was one of the earliest to begin assisting
people with these problems. Neighborhood Police Officers (NPO) [313-596-
1221 office] can help connect people with programs during business hours,
and the precinct’s counselors try to contact every victim connected with any
police call.
Our biggest two issues continue
to be cars and dogs. Cars are best
protected in the garage – we think
there have only been two incidents
of cars in garages being targeted in
the past ten years. The closer your
car is to the garage, the greater the
distance from the street, the better
your chances of finding it the way
you left it, although it might be
wetter, or snowier. Whenever possible we need to avoid leaving valuables
in the car, and if they must be left, they should be out of sight. Money and
technology are the two most popular items to steal. It also helps if we don’t
obviously put things in the car before we leave it on the street. Finally, we need
to turn the wheels to the curb when we park – this helps prevent a push-off
car theft. If your car starts turning in circles, the thieves tend to try an easier
target….we also are seeing more than just the Fords that were almost the only
cars stolen in this neighborhood for nearly a decade. Chryslers and Chevrolets
are again being targeted in the last couple of years.
16 Spring 2019Our Changing Mosaic Continued
Our NPOs are in the process of making
“house calls” to remind neighbors of
their responsibilities when they have
dogs. Many people have commented
that they don’t feel safe walking
because of the dogs running loose
.Animal Control is insufficiently
staffed to resolve the issue. We really
appreciate the efforts of the police
department in helping to address these
concerns along with noise, solid waste deposits, and inadequate fences. Our
NPO is Officer Randolph, 313-720-9991, randolphr560@detroitmi.gov. He
recommends texting him if possible for the speediest response. You can also
contact radio patrol to have information forwarded.
Policy Changes: The city is running behind the schedule they had hoped
to maintain residential rental registration. Each residential rental in the city
must be registered, inspected, and, if necessary, repaired to conform to
code, including lead abatement compliance. Owners are given six months to
comply. In addition to the obvious rentals in our neighborhood, we do have
large single homes now being rented in our neighborhood. Family owned and
occupied rentals can be exempted from the registration requirement. Details
are available on line at the city’s website. Also of interest is a series of meetings
sponsored by District 2, Department of Neighborhoods. Billed as meetings for
renters, this series includes lots of tips for landlords. People wishing to own
a home in Detroit might also find this series useful since bankers committed
to lending to people in Detroit are at these meetings with information. Areas
in the city which previously have not been deemed mortgage eligible now are
open to potential buyers who want financing.
Coming Attractions: DTE is supposed to begin repairs on the numerous
sidewalk patches throughout the neighborhood. The schedule is not yet
definite because repairs may be delayed until the water mains are replaced in
the neighborhood.
Despite the rumors, Special Assessment District is not in operation. The
public hearings need to be held this spring, and City Council must approve the
request. The second report from the city assessor’s office indicated a signature
approval rate of about 78%, higher than originally reported. We have had more
than the required series of meetings and community outreach efforts, and the
committee is optimistic about approval.
Continued on next page
www.udca.info 17Our Changing Mosaic Continued
The PGA golf tournament is scheduled for the Detroit Golf Club from June
24th to June 30th. The police department and various neighborhoods are being
included in the planning. Right now it looks as though Detroit will be a tour
stop for four years with a ten year extension possible. Our neighborhood has
been asked for our preferences for street parking in the neighborhood during
the tournament. Radio Patrol has volunteered to assist with that process. If
you have any recommendations, please pass them along to us promptly - it will
take a while to get signs made and installed whatever type of signage is used.
You might also wish to check details on volunteering, renting your house, etc.
The city will be applying special regulations during the tournament.
Finally, on neighborhood obstructions, it was nice to see that many of our
new neighbors have been really good about keeping sidewalks cleared of ice
and snow this on again, off again winter. It has been an additional challenge
with the numerous rough, uneven patches throughout the neighborhood. Now
if some of the longer-term neighbors could follow the example. In response
to our ongoing requests for police ticketing for fire hydrant obstructions, our
NPOs noted that we have to keep our hydrants clear of obstructions like deep
snow, bulk trash, leaf bags, in addition to observing parking restrictions. Sgt.
Bledsoe also commented that the fire department does what it needs to do to
use a hydrant. She has seen vehicles smashed as fire trucks move them out of
their way….yet another reason for all of us to watch where we park.
…and just before the submission deadline, it was noted in the Sunday paper
that ours and other solid neighborhoods in Detroit were becoming every more
popular. Keep up the good work, neighbors.
18 Spring 2019Get the Improve Detroit App
For reporting running water, potholes,
damaged street signs, and other
issues the Improve Detroit mobile
app makes reporting a neighborhood
problem to City Hall easier than ever.
This app uses your location and gives
you a menu of common quality-of-
life conditions to choose from in your
service request. Uploading a photo
with your report also helps the City
staff quickly identify the problem. You
may comment on your submissions
and you will be notified when the
status of the issue is updated.
First go to your app store on your phone or search Improve Detroit on your
computer and download.
From your computer or phone use the following to enter a new service request
or view other problems that have been reported. To report an issue:
l . Select the Report tab
2. Type in the Street Address (or drag the map marker to the location
of your issue)
3. Click Next
4. Choose the correct Category from the drop-down menu.
5. Answer the optional questions to provide additional details to help
city employees understand the problem.
6. Issue Title (required) will prefilled. Enter a brief or detailed
description (optional), and attach and image (optional).
7. Click Submit.
Congratulations, your issue has now been reported to the City of Detroit!
www.udca.info 19Don’t Let Your Guard Down Now!
The University District Patrol needs your subscriptions until 2020, when the
Special Assessment District goes into effect!
Remember, during patrol hours, subscribers can call our guards, at 342-3830,
for personalized services, including:
• Escorts, arriving to & leaving home
• Vacation attention
• Response to alarms
With implementation of SAD, Twenty-Four / Seven patrols begin in 2020. Until
that revenue is available, we can only maintain our nightly patrols with YOUR
support (dues).
Please visit www.universitydistrictpatrol.org for more information and to sign up!
UDCA 2019 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
April 20 - 11am.......Easter Egg Hunt - Belden Tot Lot
April 28...................Parent/Kid Meetup - check Nextdoor for time & location
May 4......................Motor City Makeover
May 7 - 6pm............UDCA Board Meeting
May 26....................Parent/Kid Meetup - check Nextdoor for time & location
June 4 - 6pm............UDCA Board Meeting
June 8 - 9am............Block Captain Meeting - Gesu Community Center
June 23....................Mix & Mingle Location-TBD
June 25-30...............Rocket Mortgage Classic PGA Tour
July 20.....................New Resident Meet & Greet
July 27 - 12pm.........UDCA Community Picnic - Palmer Park
Aug 10 - 9am...........Block Captain Meeting - Gesu Community Center
August 25................Parent/Kid Meetup - check Nextdoor for time & location
Sept 3......................UDCA Board Meeting
Sept 14.....................Harvest Fest - Belden Tot Lot
Sept 29....................Parent/Kid Meetup - check Nextdoor for time & location
Oct 1........................UDCA Board Meeting
Oct 12 - 9am............Block Captain Meeting - Gesu Community Center
Oct 12 (tentative).....UDCA Dinner Dance
Oct 27......................Parent/Kid Meetup - check Nextdoor for time & location
Nov 5.......................UDCA Board Meeting
Nov 24.....................Parent/Kid Meetup - check Nextdoor for time & location
Dec 3.......................UDCA Board Meeting
Dec 5 - 6:30pm........General Resident Meeting
Dec 14 - 9am...........Block Captain Meeting - Gesu Community Center
20 Spring 2019University District Patrol
PO Box 21041
Detroit, Michigan 48221
Security Patrol Invoice Invoice Date 04/01/2019
Dear Neighbor:
Please detach the lower portion of this invoice and return it with your payment.
You may also go to our website at www.universitydistrictpatrol.org and use our PayPal link.
When you visit our website, please join our email list.
For billing issues or general inquiries, please email us: subscribers@
universitydistrictpatrol.org or send us a letter to the address above.
Thank you for becoming a subscriber!
Your Subscription Renewal Options
Subscription Period Price
12 Month Subscription $260.00
9 Month Subscription $195.00
6 Month Subscription $130.00
3 Month Subscription $65.00
1 Month Subscription $25.00
3 Month Payment 6 Month Payment 9 Month Payment 12 Month Payment
Extends your 10/31/19 01/31/20 04/30/20 07/31/20
coverage to:
Renewal Name:___________________________________________________________________________
Address:_________________________________________________________________________________
Phone:__________________________________________________________________________________
Email:___________________________________________________________________________________
Amount Enclosed: $_______________ #Months Paid (if not below)__________________
Payment Option: 3 Months_________ 6 Months_________ 9 Months_________ 12 Months_________
Expiration Date: 7/31/19 10/31/19 01/31/20 04/30/20
For Office use only: Check Number Deposit Date Payment Date
Invoice Date 04/01/2019
Return with Payment
www.udca.info 21UDCA Youth Committee Helps Connect
Families in the Community
By Amber Hunt
For decades, the UDCA Youth committee has sponsored community networking
events for parents and children in the neighborhood. In 2019, the committee
is looking to continue this tradition with several events in the neighborhood
designed to promote connections between parents and children of all ages.
On the last Sunday of the month, the Youth Committee will sponsor a Parent/
Kid meetup. Children of all ages are encouraged to attend and play while parents
can meet and network with each other. The first meetup of 2019 was held in
February at UDCA Board Member Amber Hunt’s home on Oak Drive. It was
well attended and the children and parents all had a great time. The location and
time of the meetups will change each month, with the intention of holding the
meetup at outdoor locations like Belden Park once the weather breaks. Check
the calendar on udca.info, Nextdoor and/or Facebook for updates on the location
and time.
On Saturday April 20 from 11am-1pm, the Youth committee will sponsor our
2nd annual Easter egg hunt at Belden Park. Children of all ages are encouraged
to attend. There will be an egg hunt as well as other activities for the children
to enjoy.
Additionally, the Youth committee will be sponsoring the Harvest Fest on
Saturday, September 14. The Easter egg hunt will kick off spring and the Harvest
Fest will bring the summer season to a close. We hope to see you at one or all of
these events and please help spread the word to your neighbors.
A special thank you goes out to residents Cieara Edwards and Sara McGinty who
are leading the charge on the Youth committee this year. If you are interested
in volunteering for the Youth or any committee please reach out to volunteer@
udca.info.
22 Spring 2019Programs Can Help Property Owners Pay Taxes
AVOID LOSING YOUR HOME TO TAX FORECLOSURE
Several programs are in place to assist Wayne County homeowners having trouble
paying their property taxes and at risk of losing their homes to tax foreclosure.
Listed below are several resources to assist homeowners who are facing tax
foreclosure or who are having difficulty paying their property tax.
• Department of Human Services- 313-456-1000 Homeowners can
visit their local DHS office to apply for help under the State Emergency
Relief Program.
• Step Forward Detroit- 866-946-4732 Step Forward is a state program that
provides free, forgivable loans to help with overdue tax or mortgage payments.
• Arab Community Center for Economic Social Services
(ACCESS)- 313-842-7010 Help is available for those who qualify and is not
limited to those of Arabic ethnicity.
Financial assistance is also available to military veterans through the
following programs:
• Michigan Veterans Trust Fund, Wayne County Office-313-224-5045
Veterans with at least 6 months of wartime duty may qualify for
financial assistance.
• Wayne County Veteran Affairs (Soldiers and Sailors Relief Fund)
313-224-5045 Veterans with any wartime service and an honorable discharge
may qualify
Additional information is available on the Wayne County Treasurer’s Office
webpage at www.waynecounty.com/elected/treasurer/home.aspx or by calling
313-224-5990.
www.udca.info 23Meet the 2019 UDCA Board of Directors!
By Sidney H. Bailey III
The University District Community Association welcomes five new Board
members and congratulates 3 re-elected members. (Yes, I know that’s eight
and only five seats become vacant each year but read on). The following
UDCA members were elected to the Board in the November election (Our
thanks to the 99 members who took the time to return your ballots):
Sidney H. Bailey III Jessica Bondalapati Michael E. Carmona
Lisa Jones Roger Short
Their 3-year terms began on January 1st, 2019.
Along with Jessica and Lisa, new to the UDCA Board of Directors are Angela
Vincent, Dacia Crum and Joann Roberts. Angela was appointed to fill a
vacancy on the Board in December 2018. Her term will end in December
2020. Dacia and Joann were appointed to fill Board vacancies at the March
Board meeting. Their terms will end on December 31st, 2020 as well.
With our optimism and gratitude in starting these new terms on your UDCA
Board of Directors comes a sad farewell to Board members who left the Board
during this winter; Anna Richardson-Poe, Malaika Ramsey Heath, Bryon
Knuth, Valerie McPhaul and Jay Taylor. Their contributions and hard work on
our committees and projects are greatly appreciated. We thank them for their
service. We look forward to their participation as former Board members and
great UD neighbors as we all work to move the University District forward.
It’s a Team Effort!
The 2019 UDCA Executive Committee
Every January, the UDCA’s Board of Directors elect new officers. At our
January meeting Lucius Gunn was elected to his third term as President,
Kimberly Gunn was re-elected Vice President, Michael Carmona was re-
elected Secretary, Roger Short was re-elected Treasurer and Curtis Smith was
elected Chair of Block Club Captains. Congratulations to our new Executive
Committee!!
After reading the above, I’m sure you’ll agree that given the newest and
returning members of its leadership team, we have yet another reason to be
optimistic about our community. And if you’re not a UDCA member, JOIN!
You must pay (dues) to play (vote). Make your vote count. Let your voice be
heard. It’s only 7 months to the next election!
24 Spring 2019Meet the 2019 UDCA Board of Directors!
By Sidney H. Bailey III
Feel free to contact our new or returning Board members and congratulate
them on their recent win/appointment. And contact any board member to offer
your support, questions, and concerns and especially to volunteer for one the
UDCA’s many projects and committees. Board contact information is included
in this, and every newsletter, and on our web site. And remember: our monthly
Board meetings are open to all residents of the District. This means YOU!
Board Terms’ status, as of March 2019
Consecutive Year Current Year Current
Board Member
Terms Served Term began Term Expires
Brenda Goss Andrews 2 Jan 2018 Dec 2020
Sidney H. Bailey III 6 Jan 2019 Dec 2021
Frank Benedict 1 Jan 2018 Dec 2020
Jessica Bondalapati 1 Jan 2019 Dec 2021
Michael E. Carmona 2 Jan 2019 Dec 2021
Dacia Crum*** 1 March 2019 Dec 2020
Kimberly Gunn 1 Jan 2017 Dec 2019
Lucius Gunn 1 Jan 2017 Dec 2019
Rainy Hamilton 4 Jan 2017 Dec 2019
Amber Hunt* 1 Nov 2017 Dec 2019
Lisa Jones 1 Jan 2019 Dec 2021
Joann Roberts**** 1 March 2019 Dec 2020
Roger Short 4 Jan 2019 Dec 2021
Curtis S. Smith 1 Jan 2017 Dec 2019
Angela Vincent** 1 Dec 2018 Dec 2020
* Amber Hunt was appointed to complete the term of Gregory O’Neal
** Angela Vincent was appointed to complete the term of Jay Taylor
*** Dacia Crum was appointed to complete the term of Anna Richardson Poe
**** Joann Roberts was appointed to complete the term of Malika Ramsey Heath
www.udca.info 25Constance J. Spight
ASSOCIATE BROKER
Office: 734.459.4700 Office Fax: 888.461.0855
Cell: 313.673.7391 cspightrealtor@gmail.com
CLIENT COMMENTS
◘ Constance Spight was the ultimate professional! Our house
was priced right which generated a lot of interest.
◘ Connie was absolutely wonderful. From start to finish she
helped us list and sell our home in under 40 days!
◘ Connie made a difficult process very pleasant!
◘ Connie made herself available and walked around with me,
pointing out things I may not have seen on my own.
◘ When we are ready to purchase our next home, Connie Spight
is the only broker we will work with. She is definitely an asset
to your team!
◘ I could not have asked for a better agent/broker. Mrs. Spight is
a true woman of integrity, honesty and concern for her client.
Very patient and forthright. Going to the greatest length to get
the job done. I truly thank her for such good service.
◘ Constance is knowledgeable, detailed and thorough.
“Trust Spight to get it right”
26 Spring 2019R.I.P. University District Cookbook
By Asenath Andrews
Alas and alack, it appears that what seemed like a fabulous idea at its
inception, has died from lack of interest. As usual I embark upon projects
with absolute certainty of their success. This idea did not take wings. Let
me be clear not everything I begin is successful but my expectation is that of
success. Otherwise why begin?
I am the recipient of several contributed cookbooks and I use each of them.
Some of the recipes are connections to loved ones who have died or just
moved away. They definitely remind me of how blessed I’ve been over
my lifetime to have known these people and been given the opportunity to
have a shared experience with them through the legacy of a family recipe or
personal guide to a casserole, stew, dessert, bread or historical anecdote.
I have learned some techniques that I didn’t know before. I can place a dish
in a time and space in my life that can only be remembered not revisited. I
am always richer for it.
Though our cookbook committee was not able to generate a book we did
form and create new relationships with each other. We morphed into a
dinner club where we talk about food and share a meal from time to time.
So- though I mourn the death of what I and others thought was a good
idea I am smarter and grateful for the adventure. To my fellow cookbook
committee members, thank you for your contributions and the Christmas
cookies. I’m looking forward to our next culinary foray.
www.udca.info 27President Lucius Gunn
wearing new UDCA logo
sweatshirt. Purchase online
at www.udca.info
Saturday, June 22nd Saturday, July 27th
UDCA Mix & Mingle, Location TBD UDCA Picnic- Palmer Park
Show your UDCA Sign a little TLC!
Summer is almost here and it’s time to get outside and spruce up our yards. While you’re
out there take a few minutes to show your UDCA sign some TLC (Tender Loving Care)!
1. Is your sign in a good location, where it can be seen and
represent your commitment to the community?
2. Make sure to add the Orange UDCA 2019 zip-tie tag to the
sign. This indicates you have paid your 2019 UDCA dues!
3. Straighten your sign – step back and check it out –
and adjust as needed.
Remember, company is coming soon, as we support the Rocket Mortgage Classic this
June. As a local neighborhood – we expect national, as well as local press coverage. We
need to represent!
UDCA Membership CommitteeSpring 2019
udca
PO Box 21483
Detroit, MI 48221
University District
Community Association
www.udca.info
313.318.7498
The University District
strives to maintain and
support the integrity of
the neighborhood, provide
communication of events
and issues to its residents,
promote a quality education
in our local schools while
maintaining health, safety,
and happiness in a family
friendly diverse community.
Join our mailing list at www.udca.infoYou can also read
