Detroit Mayor Dave Bing went on the offensive Tuesday afternoon after New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg cited Detroit’s murder rate in underscoring the low murder rate on the streets of New York.

Speaking to police officers, Bloomberg noted that if New York had the same number of people getting killed, more than 4,500 who live in the world’s financial capital would have died instead of the 419 murders in New York last year, the Detroit News reported.
“Last year, we had a record low 419 murders. If instead we had Washington, DC's murder rate, nearly 1,200 New Yorkers would have been murdered last year instead of 419," Bloomberg said. "And if we had had Detroit's murder rate, more than 4,500 New Yorkers would have been murdered last year instead of 419. That's a factor of ten.”
Mayor Bing fired back, saying the billionaire mayor who was once considered a potential presidential candidate is taking Detroit’s crime issue out of context when compared to New York City.

“I think it is sad and inappropriate for anyone, especially public officials, to tout their crime fighting efforts by highlighting other cities’ murder rates,” Bing said. “There are dramatic differences between New York and Detroit.”

Bing cited as an example New York’s 40,000 police officers compared to only 3,000 men and women in blue in Detroit.

“Secondly, New York has crime fighting techniques and resources such as ‘stop and frisk at will’ and a sophisticated surveillance system that we do not currently have in our crime fighting arsenal, in part due to the fact we are under a federal consent decree,” Bing said. “We are all engaged in reducing violent crimes and we need to fight this battle together. Therefore, I support Mayor Bloomberg’s efforts to get Congress to toughen gun laws so that gun violence is reduced in Detroit, New York and across this country.”
Detroit’s crime statistics that were released earlier this year showed 411 homicides last year, up from 377 the following year. The FBI’s violent crime statistics for the first half of 2011 showed that overall violent crime rate was down 24 percent.
In the same speech to the rank and file of the New York Police Department, Mayor Bloomberg accused the media of double standard in its coverage after he came under heavy criticism for the police department’s “Stop-and-Frisk” program which has been widely criticized by police brutality advocates for targeting people of color.
Bloomberg said that the New York Times criticism of the “Stop-and-Frisk” program was baseless and accused the paper of racial double standard in the lack of coverage of a 17-year-old shot to death last week in the Bronx.
“Do you think that if a White 17-year-old prep student from Manhattan had been murdered, the Times would have ignored it?” Bloomberg asked. “Four days after Alphonso Bryant's murder went unreported by the Times, the paper published another editorial attacking stop-question-frisk. They called it a ‘widely-loathed’ practice — even though a growing number of mothers and fathers who have had their children murdered with guns have been speaking out in support of stop, question and frisk.”

Former Detroit mayor and four-term City Council member Ken Cockrel, Jr., who has served Detroit with honor and distinction has announced that he will not seek reelection in this November’s municipal elections, according to a release from Cockrel’s office. After 18 years of continuous public service, Cockrel said that it is time for him to refocus. “I feel the time is right for me to seek new challenges, new opportunities and new ways to help Detroit,” Cockrel said. Cockrel was first elected to City Council in November 1997 after serving for three years on the Wayne County Commission.

He was reelected in 2001 and again in 2005 when he became City Council president. His current term began in January of 2009. During his more than 15 years on the council he has passed and fought for laws ensuring that Detroit’s contractors are paid timely, stiffer zoning regulations of liquor stores, pawn shops and group homes, and expanded city job opportunities for ex-felons. Cockrel became mayor in September 2008 following the resignation Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick. Though he did not win election to the post in the May 2009 special election to fill the seat, he had a significant impact during his brief time as mayor.

As mayor, Cockrel restored people’s trust and faith in city government. Successful efforts included negotiating the creation of the regional authority that now operates and is expanding Cobo Hall and avoiding city bankruptcy after a credit rating downgrade impacted a municipal credit swap agreement. He also led an effort to put police back in neighborhoods by opening several new police mini-stations, reopening the 10th Precinct, and facilitating the creation of Detroit’s first mobile precinct to support major events and community-based policing.

Cockrel is also the founder and chair of the Detroit City Council Green Task Force and has championed a sustainable agenda for the City of Detroit. He has passed both anti-idling and green purchasing ordinances and spearheaded the adoption of Detroit’s Non-Motorized Plan, which thus far has produced 62 miles of bike lanes in the city. Also while mayor, he created an Office of Energy and Sustainability and launched a curbside recycling pilot project that continues to this day. A cum laude graduate of Wayne State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Print Journalism, Cockrel is a former reporter for the Detroit Free Press, the Grand Rapids Press and the Cincinnati Inquirer.

He is also a former columnist for The Metro Times. Cockrel is a graduate of the inaugural class of the Michigan Political Leadership Program at Michigan State University as well as the Program for State and Local Government Officials at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. In fall 2011 he earned a master’s degree in international affairs from Irish-American University in Dublin, Ireland. He is currently chair of the City Council’s Committee on Budget, Finance, and Audit and the vice chair of the Committee on Planning and Economic Development.

He also serves as a board member of the Rails-To-Trails Conservancy, the Detroit Jazz Fest, and Tour Detroit. In addition he is a member of the advisory boards for Bridging Communities and ACLU Michigan. Ken Cockrel, Jr. and his wife, Kimberly, have two sons, Kenneth III and Kyle Vincent, and three daughters, Kennedy Victoria, Kendal Imani and Kayla Lanette. Cockrel said that though he will be leaving the City Council table, he intends to remain active in neighborhood, civic and political affairs.

“I’m not going anywhere. I will definitely remain a staple on the Detroit scene,” he said. “I truly believe that Detroit’s best days are ahead of it and I’m eager to be a part of it.

Today, April 26, 2013, 4:00 pm
E 3rd St & Water St, Rochester, MI | Get Directions »

MI Earth Day Fest is the premier, biggest Earth Day event in Michigan, and with 50,000 expected, one of the largest on the planet. Featuring exhibits, products, presentations, entertainment, food and family fun, MI Earth Day Fest will highlight environmental issues and solutions through education, innovation and longterm sustainability strategies. Admission is free. Visit www.miEDF.org.

Virgin America's New In-Flight Flirting App

Traveling alone? A Virgin America flight, might be your best airline choice. The airline's new in-flight entertainment system allows passengers to pinpoint their next love interest with Virgin's digital seat map, browse the menu and have a drink, snack or meal sent over.

Passengers can also follow up with a text through the seat-to-seat messaging system. Virgin launched the service this week to mark the start of its Los Angeles to Las Vegas service, but it's available on all of its U.S. flights.

Virgin boss Sir Richard Branson introduced the new feature in a video:

In an unprecedented move, Detroit Mayor Dave Bing pulled petitions for a mayoral campaign as the May 14 deadline approaches without filling in the petition box that stipulates a run a for reelection this afternoon at the second floor of the Coleman A. Young Building in the City Clerk's Office.

If Bing decides to run for another term, his inclusion will shake up the race and make the field of candidates, including former Detroit Medical Center CEO Mike Duggan and Wayne County Sheriff Benny Napoleon, more competitive.

Bing has been mum about his reelection prospects for a while, until this afternoon when his office issued a brief statement indicating press availability at the clerk's office.

"I have not obtained signatures. I've been in contact with citizens. The window is obviously open. I've said for several months that I've not made my mind yet. That is still true. The first step of the process is picking up signatures," Bing told a gathering of journalists.

Bing will need 500 signatures submitted to City Clerk Janice Winfrey's Office by May 14, the cutoff date to submit signatures for a mayoral run.

"When I make the decision to win then I'm in it to win it. This is a huge decision for anybody who is going to run," Bing said. "If I'm going to go another four years I've got to make sure I touch base with all the people."

If he jumps in the race as the incumbent, Bing said he will declare that he's running to continue to fix Detroit noting, "We've made some positive things happen."

In an era of an Emergency Financial Manager (EFM) overseeing Detroit, some critics have dismissed the mayor's race as having less significance because the EFM, Kevin Orr, potentially could be in charge of the city beyond the stipulated18 months he's required to stay.

 "I accept the fact that the emergency manager is here and has the final say. I'm going to work with that team. I'm a team player," Bing said. "It's about fixing the city. We've got a lot of people that need help. The goal has to be about fixing the city. It's not going to be an easy decision."

Bing said continuing to fight the emergency manager is counterproductive because "I think the city is better off working with the emergency manager as opposed to working against him. We need the state involvement and support. We need outside support."

Bing will hold another media availability in the coming days during which he will declare whether or not he is officially in the race for mayor.

Bankole Thompson is the editor of the Michigan Chronicle. He is the author of a book series on the Obama presidency. His book "Obama and Black Loyalty," published in 2010, follows his recent book, "Obama and Christian Loyalty," with an epilogue by Robert S. Weiner, former White House spokesman. Thompson is also a political news analyst at WDET-101.9FM Detroit (NPR Affiliate) and a member of the weekly "Obama Watch" Sunday evening roundtable on WLIB-1190AM New York and simulcast in New Jersey and Connecticut

Despite the emancipation of African Americans and the District of Columbia becoming the first thriving slave territory to free more than 3000 Blacks several months before President Abraham Lincoln rendered the Emancipation Proclamation of 1863, many today, reflecting on the long and sometimes difficult journey, say the battle for real political, social and economic empowerment is not over, especially when some African Americans are still fighting for the right to vote in 2013.

A battle the Detroit Branch NAACP, the largest chapter of the nation’s storied civil rights organization, says must continue as the group hold its 58th Annual Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner on April 28 at Cobo Convention Center under the theme “Freedom Must Never Be Defaulted, It Must Forever Be Exalted,” during which it will honor individuals who exemplify the continued struggle for the liberation and advancement of Blacks in all facets of life.

And Washington, DC, in particular, recently commemorated the 151st Emancipation Day honoring an African American leader, Loretta Carter Hanes, for her commitment and dedication to raising the public’s conscience about the history of the Emancipation at an event attended by Black luminaries.

Clarence Davis, a leading historian in the nation and public administrator of the DC Office of Public Records and chairman of the Emancipation Day Committee, in an exclusive interview with the Michigan Chronicle said Blacks, “have an obligation to commemorate in Detroit, Washington, D.C., Miami, Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angles, Houston and all over the country, the triumphant struggle over slavery through the abolitionist and emancipation movement.”

Davis said at a time when African Americans continue to face many hurdles, including discrimination in varied forms and challenges to voting rights, it is important to commemorate it as a living memorial to the many African Americans who gave their lives in the quest for freedom.

“African Americans the country over must never forget the history and our plight in the struggle from indentured servitude, slavery, Jim Crow, segregation, and the suffering of oppression in America,” Davis said. “Thus our remembrance of this struggle is commemorated through emancipation as the first historical landmark in our celebration for freedom.”

Georgia Congressman John Lewis, an icon of the Civil Rights Movement and architect of the 1963 March on Washington, in an editorial published earlier this year in the Washington Post, said, “Evidence proves there are forces in this country that willfully and intentionally trample on the voting rights of millions of Americans. That is why every president and every Congress, regardless of politics or party, has reauthorized Section 5.”

Lewis, who will be in Detroit in May at the Max M. Fisher Music Center to be honored at the 15th Annual Ford Freedom Award, spoke out as the U.S. Supreme Court was considering a challenge to Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act, which requires states with a history of voter suppression to clear with the U.S. Department of Justice before any changes to voting laws.

“The right to vote is the most powerful nonviolent tool we have in a democracy. I risked my life defending that right. Some died in the struggle. If we are ever to actualize the true meaning of equality, effective measures such as the Voting Rights Act are still a necessary requirement of democracy,” Lewis wrote.

Lewis would later challenge the conscience of members of Congress when he read the 13th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution during the debt limit battle, noting, “It was a moral imperative, something this nation had to do to begin to free itself from the blight of selling human beings for profit. President Lincoln and others used their power to right a moral wrong and changed the destiny of this country forever. It is one example of the best kind of contribution legislators can make to society.”

Davis, the historian, agrees and said that is the reason why recognizing Emancipation Day in the nation is important to remind tomorrow’s leaders of the challenges confronting them.

“The history of the peculiar institution of slavery is our story to hold before the world in the commemoration of emancipation and as a paradigm and testament for all who yearn to be free,” Davis said. “The commemoration of emancipation is our conscience that reminds us to never forget the pain, death, and affliction suffered by many through slavery, oppression, suppression and degradation.”

The commemoration of emancipation must become a living chronicle to teach the uniformed about our plight in the struggle for freedom, liberty, justice and equality, Davis said.

“We must keep the conscience of emancipation alive as we continue to fight the battles of disenfranchisement that were so prevalent in the 2012 election,” he said. “As noted in the election of the first African American president, Barack Obama, our struggle for freedom, liberty, justice and equality is not over. Therefore, we must be forever vigilant in fighting against the oppressive forces that want to take us back to the darks days of racial oppression.”

Cynthia Brock-Smith, secretary of the District of Columbia, underscored the importance of recognizing individuals like Hanes who “organized community programs to commemorate the lost history of Emancipation Day celebrations. Because of Mrs. Hanes’ unwavering commitment to bring back Emancipation Day, it is now a public legal holiday.”

First Lady Michelle Obama, delivering the keynote address at the 2012 Congressional Black Caucus Dinner, said the anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation is an indication of the long pilgrimage that has now produced the first Black president.

“It is the story of continuous, breathtaking progress from one generation to the next. It’s the story of unwavering hope grounded in unyielding struggle,” Obama said. “It’s the story of men and women who said to themselves, I might not fulfill my dreams, but if I march, if I stand strong on this bridge, if I endure another night in this jail cell, then maybe my children will fulfill their dreams, maybe my grandchildren will.”

And many now look to the Obama era as the beginning of another chapter in the African American experience and what it means for Blacks to mark emancipation with special significance.

“The commemoration of emancipation is the fuel that drives the forces for freedom struggles of all types around the country today,” Davis said.

Bankole Thompson is editor of the Michigan Chronicle and the author of the forthcoming book “Rising From the Ashes: Engaging Detroit’s Future With Courage.” His book “Obama and Black Loyalty,” published in 2010, follows his recent book, “Obama and Christian Loyalty” with an epilogue by Bob Weiner, former White House spokesman. Thompson is a political news analyst at WDET-101.9FM (NPR affiliate) and a member of the weekly “Obama Watch” Sunday evening roundtable on WLIB-1190AM New York and simulcast in New Jersey and Connecticut. E-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit his personal page at www.bankolethompson.com.

LANSING – With the craft beer craze continuing to sweep the state of Michigan and summer approaching, Pure Michigan and Founders Brewing Co. have teamed up to give fans and craft beer enthusiasts a chance to pick a Founders beer style that best represents Pure Michigan.

The beer chosen by fans will be featured in the Founders tap room in downtown Grand Rapids throughout July as part of Michigan Craft Beer Month.

Starting today and running through Friday, May 3, fans can vote between the following three beer styles – Vanilla Stout, Apple Ale and Wheat IPA – to choose the one they want to try in the Founders taproom. To vote, visit michigan.org/blog. Individuals can vote once a day for the duration of the contest and the winning beer will be announced in May. Participants must be 21 years of age to vote.

“Michigan has a thriving craft beer industry that is building on our tourism efforts by offering visitors unique flavors and memorable experiences,” said George Zimmermann, Vice President of Travel Michigan, part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “Founders is a vibrant and growing company here in Michigan and we are excited to work with them on this fun, beer-inspired contest. And we encourage fans to stop in at the Founders taproom this summer for a taste of Pure Michigan craft beer.”

Home to more than 100 breweries, Michigan is fifth in the nation for the number of breweries, microbreweries and brewpubs. Grand Rapids, home of Founders, shared the designation of Beer City USA with four-time winner Asheville, North Carolina in 2012. Michigan's craft beer industry grew by 20 percent in 2012, outpacing the national industry growth rate by 12 percent, and has a total economic impact of more than $133 million in the state.

Michigan’s craft brewers are also part of a close knit community, promoting all that the Great Beer State has to offer.

“On a given weekend in our taproom, our staff will check the IDs of people from Grand Rapids to Detroit to Chicago to Louisville and beyond,” said Dave Engbers, Co-Founder and Vice President of Brand & Education at Founders Brewing Co. “Having so many great beer destinations in Grand Rapids and across the Great Beer State brings new people into town and keeps others coming back.”

For rules and regulations or for more information on voting, please visit michigan.org/blog. Pure Michigan and Founders Brewing Co. remind everyone to drink responsibly. When enjoying a brewery tour or visiting a taproom, please use a designated driver, call a cab or use public transportation. Founders is conveniently located across the street from the Rapid bus station.

For more information on beer trail suggestions and brewery tours, visit michigan.org/breweries.

Travel Michigan, part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, markets the state’s tourism industry and provides valuable visitor information services. For Michigan travel news and updates, go to michigan.org.

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) serves as the state's marketing arm and lead agency for business, talent and jobs, with a focus on helping grow Michigan's economy. For more on the MEDC and its initiatives, visit: MichiganAdvantage.org.

About Founders Brewing Co.
Established in 1997 by two craft beer enthusiasts with day jobs and a dream, Founders Brewing Co. has made a distinctive mark on the craft beer community by brewing complex, in-your-face ales, with huge aromatics and tons of flavour. Founders is one of the fastest-growing craft breweries in the United States, currently ranking among the top 30 largest craft breweries in the nation.

Founders Brewing Co. has received numerous awards from the World Beer Cup and the Great American Beer Festival, and its beers are often rated among the best in the world by RateBeer and BeerAdvocate users. Located in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, Founders is a proud member of the Michigan Brewers Guild and the Brewers Association. For more information, visit www.foundersbrewing.com.

Dr. Patricia Maryland has been promoted to President of Healthcare Operations and Chief Operating Officer for Ascension Health effective July 1st. She has over thirty years of experience in healthcare leadership and has been instrumental in ensuring the vitality of St. John Providence Health System since 2008.

Dr. Maryland’s accomplishments are expansive. In one of her more recent accomplishments, she collaborated with physician leaders to develop and new, cutting edge partnership with The Physician Alliance (TPA), a 2,200-member organization whose physician practices span five counties across Southeast Michigan. The new model, Partners in Care allows the health system and TPA physicians to successfully manage populations to better outcomes and was awarded three years of funding and support from Blue Cross Blue Shields. Furthermore, it helped to ready both St. John Providence and TPA for the changes caused by the Affordable Care Act.

“Pat’s farsighted and thoughtful approach has been instrumental to advancing Ascension Health’s Mission in Michigan and reaffirming our dedication to the region,” said Robert J. Henkel, FACHE, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ascension Health. “She has motivated her Health Ministry and other Health Ministries in Michigan to aggressively look ahead to determine how to best serve a radically changed Michigan going forward. I look forward to Pat bringing her gifts and experience to her new, broader role in service to our national ministry.”

“The Michigan Market of Ascension Health has begun leveraging our Health Ministries within the state to eliminate duplicate costs, pursue statewide contracting and develop enhanced revenue opportunities,” Dr. Maryland said. “I’m excited about the opportunity to share such successes and the lessons we’ve learned in Michigan with my colleagues across Ascension Health, and to contributing in an even more far-reaching way to our common success in serving all persons with special attention to those who are poor and vulnerable.”
 

Airport security satisfaction and top complaints of Coach Class airline passengers are also revealed in Travel Leaders Group’s survey.

Plymouth, MN (April 22, 2013) – Later this week, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will allow certain items on onboard airplanes as part of carry-on baggage such as: pocket knives with blades less than 2.36 inches, toy bats, two golf clubs, and ski poles. In a new, nationwide survey, Travel Leaders Group asked Americans across the country if they are in favor of the change and 73% of those polled do not want pocket knives allowed in airplane cabins. Also, a vast majority (nearly 80%) indicate they do not want fellow airline passengers to have the ability to make cell phone calls inflight. The survey includes responses from 1,788 consumers throughout the United States and was conducted by Travel Leaders Group – an $18 billion powerhouse in the travel industry – from March 15 to April 8, 2013.

“The results are very clear. Most Americans would prefer the status quo with regard to cell phone use inflight. Because so many planes are flying at near capacity and many passengers already feel a lack of personal space within the airplane cabin, it’s understandable that they want to continue to have some amount of peace and quiet whether they are on a short commuter flight or a flight that lasts several hours,” stated Travel Leaders Group CEO Barry Liben. “Hopefully officials who are studying the idea listen to what the public has to say. The same is true for pocket knives in carry-on baggage. This is a real hot-button issue. The TSA’s rationale is that they are aligning their policy to match international rules. International air carriers have different rules for the allowable size and weight of carry-on bags – we don’t follow those guidelines. The rationale doesn’t make sense when so many consumers and flight crew members are opposed to the idea.”

Pocket Knives in Carry-On

Beginning later this week (April 25), the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will allow certain items on onboard airplanes as part of carry-on baggage such as: pocket knives with blades less than 2.36 inches, toy bats, two golf clubs, and ski poles

When asked, “Are you in favor of this change or against it?” 73% of those polled said they are not in favor of allowing pocket knives on planes.

I'm OK with it.

23.6%

I'm OK with everything except pocket knives.

18.2%

I don't think these items should be allowed.

54.8%

I don't know.

3.5%

Cell Phone Use Inflight

Studies are underway to determine if full cell phone use is safe while inflight and a decision on whether to allow such use (not just “airplane mode”) is expected this summer. In Travel Leaders Group’s survey, nearly 80% of those polled are against allowing passengers to make cell phone calls during flight. Here are the detailed responses:

I am opposed to it.

47.9%

I am in favor as long as it is not used for conversations.

31.3%

I am in favor of it.

10.7%

I don't know.

10.1%

Additional Statistics and Findings:

Eliminate One TSA Security Measure: With regard to TSA security screening at the airport, when asked, “Which of the following TSA security measures would you most like to eliminate?” the top responses were: “removing of shoes” (27.9%), “limits on liquids in carry-on baggage” (24.1%), and “none, do not eliminate any security measures” (19.8%).
Airport Security Satisfaction: When asked, “What is your level of satisfaction with airport security today?” 82.0% indicate they are satisfied or neutral with today’s security measures (62.2% indicate they are “satisfied,” 19.8% are “neither satisfied nor unsatisfied” and 18.0% are “unsatisfied”).
Coach Class Flyers: When asked, “Do you ever fly in Coach Class?” over 94% of those polled said “Yes.” And of those who indicate they fly in Coach Class, when asked what makes flying in Coach most uncomfortable, the top responses were: “Lack of leg room” (49.5%); “seat size” (17.2%) and “pitch of the seat – person in front of me reclines too much” (15.0%).
When asked, “How much extra time do you typically allow at the airport before your domestic (U.S.) flight?” the top responses were:
1 hour 30 minutes

27.5%

1 hour

27.4%

2 hours

21.8%

This is the fifth consecutive year for this travel survey. American consumers were engaged predominantly through social media channels such as Facebook and Twitter, as well as through direct contact with travel clients for the following Travel Leaders Group companies: Nexion, Results! Travel, Travel Leaders, Tzell Travel Group and Vacation.com.

Travel Leaders Group is a leader in both the retail travel agency space and corporate travel, and it consistently ranks as one of the top travel companies nationwide. Most recently, Travel Leaders Group was again named among the Top 10 on the Travel Weekly Power List, #1 on the Business Travel News 2012 Business Travel Survey and #1 on Entrepreneur’s latest Franchise 500 list of full-service travel agency franchise businesses.

# # #

Travel Leaders Group (www.travelleadersgroup.com) is transforming travel with a commitment to our vacation and business travel clients via our progressive approach toward each unique travel experience. Having already assisted millions of travelers – through our beginnings as Carlson Leisure Group, a division of Carlson Companies, TraveLeaders and Tzell Travel Group and through the additions of Nexion, Protravel International and Vacation.com – Travel Leaders Group manages leisure, business and franchise travel operations under a variety of diversified divisions and brands. With sales of approximately $18 billion, Travel Leaders Group not only ranks as the #1 corporate travel management company by Business Travel News, but it is also among the top ten travel companies on the 2012 Travel Weekly Power List. In 2012, Entrepreneur ranked a Travel Leaders Franchise Brand #1 in the category of “Travel Agencies-Miscellaneous.”

DETROIT – The Tigers return home from their nine-game road trip to begin a nine-game homestand at Comerica Park Tuesday night. The Kansas City Royals (April 23-25) will visit Comerica Park for the first time this season, the Atlanta Braves (April 26-28) will make their only stop in Detroit this season and the Minnesota Twins come to town (April 29-May 1). First pitch for Tuesday and Wednesday’s games against the Royals are 7:08 p.m. and Thursday’s is 1:08 p.m. Friday’s game against the Braves begins at 7:08 p.m., while Saturday’s begins at 1:05 p.m. and Sunday’s begins at 8:08 p.m. Monday and Tuesday’s games against the Twins begin at 7:08 p.m. The final game of the homestand on Wednesday will begin at 1:08 p.m.

SUPER SPRING SPECIAL: Upper box infield tickets for $13 (normally $26) for Monday-Thursday games in April and May. Tickets are available in advance or at ticket windows on game day. Tickets are subject to availability.
Get your Tigers tickets for the 2013 season at Comerica Park now! Tickets are available at the Comerica Park Box Office, online at tigers.com and by phone at (866) 66-TIGER (84437). For complete ticket information including single game, season, group and suites visit tigers.com/tickets or call 313-471-BALL (2255).

Tuesday, April 23 – Kansas City Royals @ 7:08 p.m. (Gates open at 5:30 p.m.)
· Game Ball Delivery: Master Sergeant Troy Gearhart of the United States Army from Chambersburg, Pennsylvania will deliver the game ball. He recently returned from his third deployment including tours of duty in Kuwait and Iraq. He has proudly served the United States Army for 23 years.
· MLB Autism Awareness Initiative: Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States. An estimated one in 88 children in the U.S. is on the autism spectrum – a ten-fold increase in prevalence over the last 40 years. To recognize April as Autism Awareness month, the Detroit Tigers have joined Major League Baseball and Jack’s Place for Autism in support of research, advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families, and helping raise awareness and educating the community about autism. Jack’s Place for Autism will have an awareness table on the concourse at Comerica Park.
· Jackie Robinson Day: In keeping the memory of Jackie Robinson alive and celebrating the 66th Anniversary of Robinson breaking the color barrier in Major League Baseball, the Detroit Tigers hosted the 17th Annual Detroit Tigers Jackie Robinson Art, Essay and Poetry Contest. A Tigers player will join contest winners and Jackie Robinson Foundation Alumni and Scholars from the University of Michigan as they are honored during an on-field, pregame recognition. The contest was open to middle and high school students from the Detroit metropolitan area. Students entered the contest by submitting an original essay, poem or work of art in honor of Robinson, who broke the segregation barrier in baseball and was a social activist who fought for equal opportunities beyond the playing field.
o Art: Alexys Levins of Chesterfield, 8th grade, representing Anchor Bay Middle School and Chloe Jennings of St. Clair Shores, 12th grade, representing Lakeshore High School
o Essay: Anja Nelem of Waterford, 6th grade, representing Pierce Middle School and Rajiea Sultana, of Detroit, 12th grade, representing Cass Tech High School
o Poetry: Julia Meguid of Shelby Township., 6th grade representing Monfort Elementary and Qayyim Carr, of Southfield, 10th grade representing University High School Academy
· Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholars First Pitch: Monique Malone, a senior from the Ohio State University majoring in Political Science and French, and Khyara Harris, a senior from the University of Toledo, majoring in Communications and Psychology will throw the ceremonial first pitch. Jackie Robinson Foundation alumnus, Shani Allison will also be in attendance.
· Jackie Robinson Most Diverse Business Partner Award: In 1998, Commissioner Allan H. (Bud) Selig, authorized the creation of the Diverse Business Partners program, an economically driven business initiative established to cultivate new and existing partnerships with minority- and women-owned businesses, by increasing opportunities for minorities and women to participate in the procurement activities of Major League Baseball. Irene Zannis, owner of Seaway Painting, L.L.C., will be presented with the Jackie Robinson Most Valuable Diverse Business Partner award (MVDBP) during an on-field, pregame recognition. Seaway Painting L.L.C., a national industrial painting company, is a single-source contractor responsible for painting, sand blasting, water blasting and a number of other maintenance services. The Detroit Tigers have partnered with Seaway and its partners since 2008 as Seaway has provided service to maintain Comerica Park, most notably painting and general maintenance of the facility to ensure a pleasant experience for fans at Comerica Park.
· Jackie Robinson Day On The Road: Tigers players and coaches participated in the league-wide Jackie Robinson Day celebration by wearing uniform number 42 to honor Jackie Robinson on April 16 at Seattle.
Wednesday, April 24 – Kansas City Royals @ 7:08 p.m. (Gates open at 5:30 p.m.)

· Recently retired Detroit Lions kicker, Jason Hanson, will throw out a ceremonial first pitch.
· The first 10,000 fans to enter Comerica Park will receive a Justin Verlander “April in the D” Mini Bobblehead, courtesy of FOX Sports Detroit.
· MLB Autism Awareness Initiative: Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States. An estimated one in 88 children in the U.S. is on the autism spectrum – a ten-fold increase in prevalence over the last 40 years. To recognize April as Autism Awareness month, the Detroit Tigers have joined Major League Baseball and Jack’s Place for Autism in support of research, advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families, and helping raise awareness and educating the community about autism. A pregame ceremony featuring Jack’s Place is scheduled for today’s game.

Thursday, April 25 – Kansas City Royals @ 1:08 p.m. (Gates open at 11:30 p.m.)

· Game Ball Delivery: Sergeant Reyes Saldana of the United States Marines from Davison, Michigan will deliver the game ball. Sergeant Saldana recently returned from his first deployment to Afghanistan, where he earned a Purple Heart. He has proudly served the United States Marines for three years
· Aquafina School Incentive and Reward Program: This season, the Detroit Tigers Foundation, an affiliate of Ilitch Charities, and Aquafina have teamed up to donate over 10,000 tickets to area schools to reward students for a variety of achievements, including serving on the safety patrol squad and maintaining perfect attendance for a marking period. Detroit Public Schools will receive approximately 1,000 tickets through this program and the Archdiocese of Detroit will receive over 2,000 tickets that are distributed to Detroit area Catholic Schools. Students from the Aquafina School Incentive and Reward Program will attend the game. 1,000 students participating in the program will receive sling bags, courtesy of Aquafina.
· Weather Day: As part of the club’s 2013 Class Outside Series 1,400 students will be in attendance for a special pregame educational presentation. Weather Day events will teach students the science of weather and its role in the game of baseball.
· MLB Autism Awareness Initiative: Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States. An estimated one in 88 children in the U.S. is on the autism spectrum – a ten-fold increase in prevalence over the last 40 years. To recognize April as Autism Awareness month, the Detroit Tigers have joined Major League Baseball and Jack’s Place for Autism in support of research, advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families, and helping raise awareness and educating the community about autism.
Friday, April 26 – Atlanta Braves @ 7:08 p.m. (Gates open at 5:00 p.m.)

· Detroit Stars Singing Competition: The Tigers have partnered with Radio One for the seventh annual Detroit Stars Singing Competition. The competition will take place at the Big Cat Court starting at 5:30 p.m. 12 finalists will be judged by celebrity judges including Duke Fakir of the legendary Motown group the Four Tops, Lee Thomas, an entertainment reporter for FOX 2 WJBK, and Dionne Farris, acclaimed R&B singer and songwriter. The winner receives $1,500, the opportunity to sing the anthem at an upcoming Tigers game and will be honored during the pregame ceremony on the field.
· Negro Leagues Weekend Pregame Ceremony: The Tigers are celebrating African Americans and their numerous contributions to the game of baseball. The ceremony will include the “Passing of the Bat.” The national anthem will be performed by Joyce Stearns Thompson and Rosalyn Norman-Brown, daughters of National Baseball Hall of Famer Norman “Turkey” Stearns.

Saturday, April 27 – Atlanta Braves @ 1:05 p.m. (Gates open at 11:00 a.m.)

· The first 10,000 fans to enter Comerica Park will receive a Prince Fielder Detroit Stars Mini Fathead, courtesy of Comerica Bank.
· 19th Annual Negro Leagues Tribute Game: The Detroit Tigers and Atlanta Braves will suit up wearing the throwback uniforms of the Detroit Stars and Atlanta Black Crackers. Several former Negro Leagues players will participate in a special Q&A Roundtable, hosted by famed radio announcer John Mason of WCHB AM 1200, at the Big Cat Court, at 11:20 a.m. The Tigers will also pay tribute to the former Negro Leagues players during a pregame ceremony hosted by Mason.The Tigers will honor former Negro Leagues players Joe Douse and Alton King with a moment of silence.
· Game Ball Delivery: Specialist Mason Turrell of the United States Army from Clinton Township, Michigan will deliver the game ball. He recently returned from his second tour of duty including deployments to Iraq and South Korea. He has proudly served the United States Army for four years.
Sunday, April 28 – Kids Day – Atlanta Braves @ 8:08 p.m. (Gates open at 6:30 p.m.)

· All kids 14-and-younger will receive an “Every Kid, Every Sunday” Miguel Cabrera Triple Crown Knit Hat, courtesy of Belle Tire.
· Former Detroit Tigers player, Larry Herndon, will throw out the ceremonial first pitch.
· Detroit Tigers African American Legacy Award: A special pregame ceremony honoring 1984 World Series Champion, Larry Herndon, as the 2013 recipient of the Detroit Tigers African American Legacy Award, awarded by the Black McDonald’s Owners and Operators Association. The ceremony also includes a presentation of a Testimonial Resolution to Larry Herndon by Councilman Pro Tempore Gary Brown.

All Sunday home games are Kids Days at Comerica Park. All kids 14-and-younger will receive a free promotional item as part of the “Every Kid, Every Sunday” giveaway guarantee, can enjoy free rides on the Comerica Bank Carousel or the Fly Ball Ferris Wheel, courtesy of Kroger, can take part in free face painting, have the chance to win a bicycle and are invited down to the field for Kids Run the Bases, courtesy of Aquarian, following the game.

Monday, April 29 – Minnesota Twins @ 7:08 p.m. (Gates open at 5:30 p.m.)

· Detroit Grand Prix Driver, J.R. Hildebrand, will throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Tuesday, April 30 – Minnesota Twins @ 7:08 p.m. (Gates open at 5:30 p.m.)

· Capuchin Friar, Br. Bob Malloy, will throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Wednesday, May 1 – Minnesota Twins @ 1:08 p.m. (Gates open at 11:30 a.m.)

· Aquafina School Incentive and Reward Program: This season, the Detroit Tigers Foundation, an affiliate of Ilitch Charities, and Aquafina have teamed up to donate over 10,000 tickets to area schools to reward students for a variety of achievements, including serving on the safety patrol squad and maintaining perfect attendance for a marking period. Detroit Public Schools will receive approximately 1,000 tickets through this program and the Archdiocese of Detroit will receive over 2,000 tickets that are distributed to Detroit area Catholic Schools. Students from the Aquafina School Incentive and Reward Program will attend the game. 1,000 students participating in the program will receive sling bags, courtesy of Aquafina
· History Day: Approximately 1,000 students will be in attendance for a special educational series by the Detroit Tigers. History Day events will teach students the rich history of Michigan, Detroit and the Tigers.

SPECIAL INITIATIVES

Verlander’s Victory for Veterans: When Justin Verlander takes the mound at Comerica Park, he strives for victory. This season, his outings on the hill take on a new meaning. For each of his home starts, Verlander hosts Veterans from Veterans Affairs Medical Centers throughout the state of Michigan. These Veterans sustained injuries or illness in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom or in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. The Veterans along with their families cheer on the Tigers from the comfort of Verlander’s personal luxury suite. After serving our country, the special day provides American veterans the opportunity to enjoy a Tigers game with their family. Veterans share 18 luxury suite tickets and parking passes in the Tigers Parking Garage. Food and beverage is provided for the guests courtesy of Verlander. Veterans receive a personalized welcome letter from Verlander; all guests receive a Verlander’s Victory for Veterans t-shirt and are welcomed on the videoboard during the game.
When you see Verlander on the mound, he is not only playing for his team and Tigers fans around the world, he is also playing for America’s heroes.