JACK DETROIT

November 29, 2011

A Final Letter From The Editor

It is with a heavy heart that I am informing you of the closure of Jack Detroit, effective immediately. This past year has afforded me an unparalleled opportunity: to reach a widespread audience and inform tens of thousands of readers about the vibrant people, places and happenings that make our city, and region, so wonderful. Four issues later, I firmly believe Jack Detroit accomplished that, at least in some small way. I’m very sorry for the unfortunate economic climate and my inability to overcome the ever-increasing financial obstacles. For your support and belief in the importance of this endeavor, I am truly grateful, as this product would not have lasted as long as it did without your efforts. It is my hope that the intricacies of our city continue to be well-documented, and that these tales of resurgence are given the credence they deserve, regardless of journalistic outlet.

Cheers to whatever the future may hold,

Leah Moss

Founder and Editor-in-Chief

November 1, 2011

Texting at the Table with the Bator Brothers

By: Leah Moss

Photography: Daniel Lippitt

“No, thanks.” It’s truly incredible to think how often we say this simple phrase and how pervasive the refusal process is in our routine. “Would you like whipped cream on your latte today?” “No, thanks.” “Need help with that box?” “No, thanks.” “For a few dollars more, you could purchase an extra product…” “No, thanks.” With a seemingly similar sense of nonchalance, 25-year-old Ben Bator describes his decision to decline a nearly full-ride scholarship to law school, in order to dive into the company he founded with Lauren Leto, Texts From Last Night. He just said, “No, thanks.”

November 1, 2011

Hard-to-buy-for people in your life just met their match. What’s even better? You don’t have to step foot in a mall to find any of these items. Feel good about supporting local businesses. Feel great about giving gifts they’ll love.

Photography by Daniel Lippitt

Active: They’re fitness junkies who are always on the go, outdoor lovers, and completely health crazed. Give a gift that feeds their frenzy to know it will be one that keeps on giving.

Appreciated: The babysitter stayed late every week when you went for drinks after that movie. Their company gave yours too many referrals to count. Your neighbor watered the plants and took in your mail. For the little things, show your appreciation - and don’t forget handwritten thank-you notes!

Proud: They watch every game, cheering on their favorite team. They beam when Detroit makes national news, now for something positive. Getting behind an important cause is the norm and their expectation. For the person who loves our fair city, give them a great way to show it off.

Intellectual: They’re smarter than the rest of your inner circle, and everyone knows it. Always curious, never satisfied with an “I don’t know” response, they relish in a deeper meaning. Let them explore our world, and give the rest of us the summary later.

Domestic: They throw the best dinner parties and make it look effortless. Their house is immaculate, eclectic and warm. You feel welcome anytime, except weekend mornings, when they’re still lounging.

Fashionable: Dressed to the nines, well-heeled, trendy, en vogue. Call it what you want, but they are the best-dressed people you know with a taste for the finer things in life. Satisfy their need for the next best thing with a stylish piece that’s “right now.”

November 1, 2011

Lindsey: December 2011

This Livonia resident is, apparently, a study in contrasts – and not just for her striking hair and porcelain skin. She aspires to earn her “degree in and practice dietetics, specializing in cancer patients and children with dietary restrictions,” and yet also hopes to own a “fabulous” greasy spoon restaurant. The wannabe romantic would say the best date she’s been on had “a romantic candlelit dinner with champagne and luxurious desserts, but that would be a lie.” As a child, she did voice-overs for PBS – think, “Up next is Barney!” As a grown up, she loves tasting menus, traveling, and Fleetwood Mac. She might be all over the map, but we like her just the same.

Model: Lindsey LeBon

Photo: Glenn Triest

November 1, 2011

Kelley: November 2011

As a self-described “Garden Pixie,” Kelley says, “I continue to refine and revise my passion and purpose within the horticultural realm, season by season. A focus on organic gardening and the use of native plants is unwavering,” but she wishes there was an obvious way to continue down this desired path without leaving Detroit. The worst dates in her opinion are those that occur without her realizing they’re dates. She might be a bit naïve, but she’s off the market – and a Black Belt in Choi Kwang Do if you test that.

Model: Kelley Allen

Photo: Lynn Upson

Makeup: Chastity Tappen

Hair: Laura Rose

November 1, 2011

Unwilling Killers

By: Jessica Dupnack

Michael Vick might have gotten a second chance, but hundreds of thousands of dogs will not be so lucky. Over the last few years, dog fighting has become a household term used to describe the underground sport associated with urban epicenters across the United States. The star quarterback recently hurled dog fighting into the national spotlight, but for centuries, people in every corner of the world have used dog fighting for entertainment. Unfortunately, the Pit Bull Terrier has been chosen as the ultimate competitor for this covert sport: dog fighters sculpt the loyal breed into fearsome competitors, branding Pit Bulls with a tainted reputation. However, what we pick up from news headlines doesn’t dare scratch the surface of this widespread pandemic, and Detroit is no exception.

Services for Older Citizens Benefit Event

September 1, 2011

The Redemption of Jimmy Howard

By Leah Moss

Great sports movies all have an uplifting storyline, but the best ones are true sagas, full of ups and downs, heroes and villains, beloved mentors and a main character so full of contrasts and internal conflicts that the audience is left bewildered by his tenacity throughout the various trials and tribulations set before him. And so it went with the 2011 NHL Playoffs. At the epicenter of the Detroit Red Wings’ rollercoaster post-season was the starting goaltender, Jimmy Howard, who defied every critic’s worst comments, saved seemingly unstoppable shots, and yet said absolutely nothing.