Betsy Alexander is the historian and educational outreach contact for The War Memorial. She was a member of the Grosse Pointe Theater Group in 1979 before relocating to Los Angeles to begin a career in music and entertainment. She was head of international for Disney’s adult record label and ran Sony Music International’s West Coast operations. She was also head of publicity for I.R.S./A&M Records and had her own PR and personal management companies. She returned to the Detroit area in July of 2022, and began working at The War Memorial that October.

Dr. Sheryl Kubiak, Dean of Wayne State University School of Social Work, will speak on January 27th on "School of Social Work: Advancing Change in Our Communities and Across the State" at 12 noon at the War Memorial

Sheryl Kubiak, Ph.D., is the Dean of Wayne State University

School of Social Work and Founding Director of the Center for

Behavioral Health and Justice.

Dean Kubiak’s interest in the intersections between criminal/legal

systems and behavioral health began 30 years ago when she

developed and administered a long-term residential re-entry

program in Detroit for pregnant women addicted to crack

cocaine. Since then, Dean Kubiak has received national, state,

and foundation funding to research and evaluate projects such as

substance abuse treatment within prisons, mental health courts,

and integrated substance abuse and mental health treatment for

those involved in the legal system.

Currently, she is the PI on a cross-site evaluation of pilot diversion

programs statewide and a prison reentry project for those with

opioid addictions. Dean Kubiak has served as a gubernatorial

appointee to the Michigan Joint Task Force on Jail and Pretrial

Incarceration and the state’s Criminal Justice Policy Commission.

Degrees and certifications

• Ph.D. in Psychology and Women's Studies, University of Michigan, 2002

• M.S.W., University of Michigan, 1988

• B.A., Social Work with a minor in Business Administration, Madonna University,

1987

• Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Clinical/Macro, State of Michigan

• Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW) N.A.S.W. Certification

Awards and honors

• National Institute of Health, Summer Training Institute. Competitive

Cont…

scholarship for a long training program sponsored by NIH on Cross-System

Research. July 2008.

• National Institute of Drug Abuse and Institute for the Advancement of Social

Work Research; Competitive Scholarship for National Blending Conference,

Seattle, WA; October 2006.

• National Institute of Mental Health; Gender and Mental Health Pre-doctoral

Fellowship, 2000 – 2002.

• National Institute of Justice: Women in the Criminal Justice System Training

Competitive Scholarship – Inter-University Consortium for Political and Social

Research (ICPSR). 1999

• James Marshall Public Policy Fellowship; American Psychological Association,

Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues; Washington, D.C., May

2002 (Awarded but declined)

Pulitzer Prize and Emmy Award Winner M.L. Elrick, the "On Guard" government watchdog columnist for the Detroit Free Press will be the guest speaker January 13th at 12 noon at the War Memorial

M.L. Elrick, "On Guard" Government Watchdog Columnist for Detroit Free Press

M.L. Elrick was hired as a reporter by the Detroit Free Press in May 1999 and left the newspaper in January 2006 to join the WDIV-TV news team as an investigative reporter. He earned two local Emmy Awards in 2006 while employed by WDIV-TV.

M.L. rejoined the Detroit Free Press in August 2007 as an investigative reporter. He and fellow investigative reporter Jim Schaefer received a Pulitzer Prize in 2009 for their work exposing wrongdoings by Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick. The two investigative reporters published a book entitled "The Kwame Sutra: Musings on Lust, Life, and Leadership from Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpartrick." 

M.L. joined the Fox2 News TV team in August 2012 as an investigative reporter until he rejoined the Detroit Free Press in March 2020 as a Senior Reporter and was elevated to his current position of "On Guard" Government Watchdog Columnist in August 2022.

M.L. received the Scripps Howard Journalism Award for Excellence in Opinion Writing in 2025.

M.L. hosts a podcast "Soul of Detroit" that he started in May 2019  www.mlsoulofdetroit.com.

M.L. is also the founder/organizer of an annual Clark Park Coalition Winter Classic Outdoor Hockey Game that he started in November 2014 to raise money for the Clark Park Coalition.

January 27 speaker 

Sheryl Kubiak, PhD., Dean of the School of Social Work, Wayne State University, at the War Memorial

Doug "Odie" Slocum, Retired Brigadier General and Air Force Pilot to speak November 25th

Doug "Odie" Slocum joined the Air Force in May 1984 and was a fighter pilot in F-4 and F-16 jets. He had numerous responsibilities during his time in the Air Force (21 years) and Air National Guard (14 years), retiring in May 2019 as Wing Commander, 127th Wing & Selfridge ANGB, Brigadier General, where he was stationed from November 2014 until he retired.

In February, 2024, Odie authored a book entitled "Violent Positivity" which chronicles his journey of experiences and lessons learned that lead to his people-centric approach to leadership.

Odie currently serves as President and Director of the Michigan Air and Space Forces Association. He also serves on the boards of the Selfridge Military Air Museum and Fisher House Foundation.

October 14th Meeting

Matthew Rigotti of Gearheads Team 1189

At our October 14th meeting, Matthew Rigotti , Mentor, Gearheads Team 1189, will discuss the official FIRST Robotics team representing Grosse Pointe South and North High Schools with an average of 20 student participants each year.

 Matthew Rigotti is a retired project manager with Hella Electronics, where he led development teams that designed and launched new products. He is the President of the Gearheads STEAM Booster Club.

The Gearheads is the official FIRST Robotics team representing Grosse Pointe North and South High Schools with an average of 20 students per year. The Gearheads compete in numerous competitions each year. Since the FIRST Robotics Team 1189 began 22 years ago, hundreds of students have been introduced to STEAM. They are one team, working together in seven sections: Design, Build, Fabrication, Controls, Media, Business, and Safety. 

The mission of the Gearheads is to build people, not just robots. We do this through creating an environment that equips students with the skills necessary to become capable and confident leaders in STEAM and actively engaging with our community to support and promote STEAM.

At our September 23rd meeting, Dr. Hayley Murphy, CEO and Executive Director of the Detroit Zoological Society, will provide information on the current and upcoming activities at the Detroit Zoo.

The luncheon has been moved to the Tompkins Center in Windmill Pointe Park (GPS address 14920 Windmill Pointe Drive) because the Ballroom at The War Memorial is not available.

At our September 9th meeting, John Skok, AIS, Principal of McIntosh Poris Architects, will discuss the GP School Board's building renovation plans, using the recent renovation of the Historic Cadieux School as an example of our focus on Adaptive Reuse and some of the analysis, decision making, creative problem solving and positive outcomes of this project.

John Skok has led the firm’s architectural design, project strategy and management, community engagement, and new project development since joining in 2001. He is responsible for projects from the early schematic phases of design through construction administration. John’s specialties are in commercial architecture, historic preservation, multi-family housing, adaptive reuse, public and cultural spaces, and interiors. John graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy in 2000, with a Bachelor of Architecture degree and is currently active with his alma mater on the School of Architecture Dean's Advisory Council. He is a former member of the board of zoning appeals for the City of Ferndale. 

McIntosh Poris Architects (MPA) believes in the power of design as a catalyst for change, transforming communities through creative, interactive city building. Since 1994, the architects and urbanists of MPA have delivered architecture, interior, and urban design services for commercial, residential, and institutional clients across the U.S. 

August 12th Meeting

Nick Mancuso of Downtown Boxing Gym

Nick is responsible for the strategic engagement and stewardship of DBG’s existing individual donors. He also cultivates new donors while managing facility rentals, events, and donation data. In addition, Nick assists with marketing and external communications to key constituents. Prior to joining DBG, Nick served as a financial advisor at Plante Moran and assistant director at the University of Michigan Athletic Department. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan and an MBA from Wayne State University. “I’m most inspired by students who overcome challenging circumstances to graduate from high school and thrive,” he says.

The Downtown Boxing Gym was founded in 2007 by internationally recognized coach and youth mentor, Khali Sweeney. He opened the doors to our free, out-of-school time program with passion, purpose and a mission to help young people succeed.

Over the years, our team has grown to include our professional academic staff, volunteer tutors, coaches and others to provide the resources and educational opportunities our students need and deserve. Growing up, Khali didn’t have those things and he struggled. He founded DBG to ensure students in and around the Detroit area have the support they need to learn, thrive and accomplish great things. We’re proud to have maintained a 100% high school graduation rate since 2007. At DBG, we train kids for life.

For almost two decades, DBG has built deep connections with students and their families, measuring our impact through annual evaluations and ongoing dialogue. This longitudinal approach allows us to understand each student’s unique journey – their challenges, opportunities, and dreams. By staying responsive to our community’s needs and adapting our support accordingly, we continue to evolve and scale our impact effectively. Every piece of data represents a real story, helping us strengthen the foundation of support we provide to each student in our community.

Dick Ruzzin to speak July 22 about his career in automotive design

Born in Detroit, Dick Ruzzin is a retired automobile executive from General Motors Design Staff. During his career he participated in more than 140 car design projects as a Creative Designer, Assistant Chief Designer, Chief Designer and then as Director of Design for G.M. Europe in Germany and as Director of Design for Chevrolet Cars in the United States. He is now a designer, writer, book author and design mentor in retirement. His featured videos and his writing about automobile design and other subjects can be found on the internet on many sites including VeloceToday.com, TheBugattiReview.com, the car design site, DeansGarage.com and The Grosse Pointe News.

His first book, "BELLA MANGUSTA, the Italian Art and Design of the De Tomaso Mangusta" is now followed by the "DESIGN OF THE 1966 OLDSMOBILE TORONADO", of which he was one of the designers. The main reason for participation in the Who's Who Biographical Registry is to promote his design books as design by experienced and accomplished designers is rarely written about.

Mr. Ruzzin led a fulfilling career as a General Motors Design executive that spanned nearly 40 years until his retirement in 2000. As Director of Design for General Motors' Chevrolet Cars, he also led the development of the Chevrolet Brand Character Statement, creating a critical piece of work that continues to influence the company's brand character today. In his role as an executive designer, Mr. Ruzzin was responsible for directing four exterior and two interior Chevrolet design studios, as well as collaborating with divisional executives from Chevrolet and General Motors and the leaders of General Motors Design Staff to ensure the strategic success of all General Motor's design efforts.

Born in 1936, Mr. Ruzzin's parents were Italian immigrants who instilled in him a strong work ethic and an appreciation for teamwork. During his childhood his father often assigned him tasks that seemed impossible to him at the time, Mr. Ruzzin was unaware of his father's intentions, but eventually discerned that his father was teaching him to ask for help and accept assistance from others. These lessons were integral to Mr. Ruzzin's eventual career as a car designer as they taught him to believe in his own abilities as well as those of his trusted colleagues.

Prior to embarking on his professional design career path, Mr. Ruzzin earned a Bachelor's Degree in Industrial and Product Design from Michigan State University in 1959. His first employment in the automotive industry was at Fisher Body Division of General Motors, where he served as a technical illustrator, a role that utilized his natural talents in art and mechanical drawing as well as his earlier practical experiences in mechanics. He soon continued to pursue his dream of a career as an automotive designer and had the good fortune to be hired for a highly competitive role at General Motors Design Staff, when Cadillac's Chief Designer recognized his talent and offered him a design position. Over the decades that followed, Mr. Ruzzin had an exceptional career with General Motors design Staff; highlights included participating in design programs that received numerous Car of the Year Awards from prestigious auto magazines and recognition from the Industrial Design Society of America for two cars that he helped design. The 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado and another particularly memorable award for the 1992 Cadillac Seville designed while he was Chief Designer of the Cadillac Studio.

Since retiring, Mr. Ruzzin has continued to add to his impressive credentials by advancing his design literary skills, particularly in the field of automobile design history and design analysis. In 2017, he authored "Bella Mangusta: The Italian Art and Design of the De Tomaso Mangusta," an account of an iconic car design that changed the world of automotive design and a car that influenced his career and that of many designers. He is now completing a new book about the 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado as a design highlight of his career. Building on his artistic body of work, Mr. Ruzzin also has exhibited his design work at the Alfred P. Sloan Museum, and the Detroit Athletic Club as well as articles that included his design sketches in major magazines with his design commentaries. He was the creator and 20-year organizer of the North American International Auto Show event, "Designers Night In Detroit" and the creator and founder of "EyesOn Design," a charity event, the car design show of its kind that features "Automotive Design, Past, Present and Future". He is now active with numerous charities and local art organizations throughout the Detroit metro region.

Mr. Ruzzin and his wife had three children, two collector cars and two Siamese cats. In the coming years, he looks forward to spending more time mentoring aspiring designers, as well as delving deeper into the world of sculpture and the establishment of a local art awards program.

July 8, 2025 Members' Meeting

Mark Higbie – Michigan Central Station Art Program

Mr. Higbie describes the artwork at the Station as a “persistent presence” since it was built in 1913. It was the tallest railroad station in the country with the same designers as Grand Central Station in New York. At its peak, 200 trains and 4,000 passengers would pass through daily, and in the floors above, there were 3,000 office workers. In the 1970s, the amount of train travel at the Station dwindled, until it finally closed in 1988.

From the Station’s artistic perspective, there are three acts. Act 1 is its Rise and Fall: It was built with polished marble hallways, with a huge concourse that had skylights, as light was part of its design. Starting in 1988, 30 years of neglect allowed the elements to tear away at the structure. Act 2 is New Voices in the Hall: During this neglect, graffiti artists from around the country decorated the walls and columns. It was vandalism, but skilled, and art found its voice through these murals. Act 3 is Welcome to the Future: Since purchasing the building and surrounding properties in 2018, Ford Motor Co. has spent almost $1 Billion to renovate. In addition to bringing the structure to its 1913 glory, some of the graffiti has been archived and all of it has been digitally preserved. New artists have also been hired to bring in new art, some of which can already be seen at the Bagley Mobility Hub.

Mark Higbie is the principal at Greenfield Strategies, a strategic communications consultancy based in Detroit. Mark serves as a senior advisor to Ford Motor Company providing strategic counsel to leaders in environmental sustainability, the future of mobility, and organizational culture change. Early in his career, Mark spent ten years in national politics and government as a campaign operative and political appointee in Washington DC, followed by a decade in Silicon Valley as a corporate communicator supporting leading technology companies and venture capital firms. Since 2004, Mark has advised Ford – accelerating change and challenging cultural norms through unique partnerships and programs. Most recently, he has worked with Executive Chairman Bill Ford, to introduce mindfulness practices in support of employee well-being, productivity and innovation. Mark is a provocateur and consensus builder who drives engagement through direct experience, mutual understanding and empathy. Mark is a former Board member of the Black Rock Arts Foundation and a 16-year participant of the Burning Man Project.

June 10, 2025 -- No Meeting

At our June 24 meeting, Michael Primeau of Primeau Forensics will discuss audio and video forensic science,

Michael Primeau was born in 1991 in Ferndale, Michigan. At an early age, Michael began showing the makings of a future engineer. Most children would play with their electronic toys, whereas Michael would disassemble them, just to understand how they worked. At the age of 8, he developed an interest in the disassembly of the old computer systems his father would bring home for him to play with. He then began repairing them in his spare time. This sparked a passion for technology and complex computer systems. 

Michael attended Lawrence Technological University in Southfield, MI. He obtained his Bachelor of Science Degree in Audio Engineering Technology in 2018. Throughout his journey at LTU, he absorbed knowledge from many educators and fellow students and learned valuable lessons. One of these lessons was a discipline to learn, which is how he obtained his degree. Another lesson was the ability to see no limits to the heights at which his skills and knowledge base could grow.

Michael Primeau, managing partner of Primeau Forensics has spent the last 10 years working in the field of audio, video, and image forensic analysis. Primeau Forensics specializes in consulting with investigators and litigators on cases where digital media recordings are being admitted as evidence.

While Michael has actively worked in the audio and video forensic industry for over a decade, he grew up around it through his father, Edward Primeau. Ed began practicing audio and video forensics in 1984, 7 years before Michael’s birth. You could almost say that he was born to be a forensic expert.

One of the most rewarding parts of his job is testifying as an expert witness in court. Michael has recently begun assisting in the development of scientific best practices with the Scientific Working Group on Digital Evidence and voted as the chair of the video committee. Along with actively working on cases, Michael has consulted with the media on several cases including appearing on The Travel Channel’s popular TV Series Expedition Unknown as well as The Proof is Out There on A&E Networks.

Michael spends his time inside and outside of the office focusing on what he is aiming at. As a small business owner, he focuses on the famous mindset from Napoleon Hill’s “whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve” ethos. He enjoys learning new things and overcoming challenges.

When he isn’t working on cases, Michael enjoys playing the drums or guitar, spending time with his Pitbull Frankie, and drinking copious amounts of coffee.

Dr. Matthew Willsey, Asst. Professor of Neurosurgery and Biomedical Engineering at University of Michigan will speak on May 27th

Matthew Willsey attended MIT where he received B.S. and M.Eng. degrees in Electrical Engineering with a research focus in digital signal processing. He later attended medical school at Baylor College of Medicine and completed his neurosurgery residency at the University of Michigan in 2022. He completed a PhD in Biomedical Engineering during his 2-year resident research time plus an additional leave-of-absence year. His research focused on intracortical brain-computer interfaces, computational neuroscience, and neuromodulation. After graduation from residency, he completed a one-year, post-graduate appointment as a clinical instructor stereotactic/functional neurosurgery and epilepsy at Stanford University where he conducted research in the Neural Prosthetics Translational Lab directed by Dr. Jaimie Henderson.



 He is currently an assistant professor of neurosurgery and biomedical engineering at the University of Michigan and is core faculty in the neural engineering cluster of the Biointerfaces Institute and a Michigan Neuroscience Institute affiliate. His research interests include brain-computer interfaces, neuromodulation (deep brain stimulation and spinal cord stimulation), and computational neuroscience. He currently directs a human BCI research lab (https://www.willseylab.org/home) focused on expanding the functionality and stability of present-day BCIs.

 His clinical interests include deep brain stimulation, epilepsy, MR-guided focused ultrasound, pain.

At our May 13 meeting, our speaker will be Charlie Langton, Attorney and Fox TV Anchor and Reporter

My real job is an attorney. I have been practicing law for nearly 25 years, have my own law firm, and have tried many cases in multiple areas of law. Some people might call me an ambulance chaser, as I handle a lot of car accidents, workers' compensation cases, slips and falls and dog bites. Basically when somebody gets injured, that's when they call me. 

I have also represented many criminal cases and actually find the criminal cases to be more interesting than the civil cases. Criminals just have so many more stories to tell.

The law has always been a part of my family. My father was an attorney until his retirement about 15 years ago. I remember, as a little kid, watching him spread out an entire file after dinner, going over the legal issues or arguing with him about the facts of the case. Obviously, joining the debate team at Notre Dame High School seemed to be a natural for me. It wasn't until college that I slightly changed my interests.

I wanted to make broadcasting more than just a hobby. So, after ten years of practicing law, I enrolled at Specs Howard School of Broadcast Arts.After graduating number one in my Specs class, I was offered a job at WYUR-AM 1310 hosting a political-legal talk show from noon to one, Monday through Friday in 1997. Although the ratings were pretty good, the station eventually folded. I then went to WXYT-AM 1270 where I hosted a talk show Monday through Friday from 9 to 11 at night. It was at that time I knew that a career in broadcasting was definitely in my blood.

While I was on the radio, somebody at FOX 2 News heard me and thought I would make a good legal analyst. I eventually became a regular daily commentator during the Stephen Grant murder case in Macomb County. It was about that time that Kwame Kilpatrick's dirty deeds became public and I was called upon for legal commentating. I have to say that to some extent, I owe my television career to the former mayor of Detroit.

I have enjoyed some success in broadcasting. I won four Emmys and three Wade McCree Jr. awards for excellence in legal journalism presented by the State Bar of Michigan. I have been honored by the Macomb County Bar Association for outstanding service and have been asked to speak at various legal and charitable events, as well as moderate numerous political debates.

What you may not know about me is that I helped design the Michigan quarter, am a big collector of Michigan art, a huge Beatles fan, attended the Detroit Tigers fantasy camp and can't get enough of chocolate milk shakes! 

I am also honored to serve as a trustee at the Michigan State University College of Law. I love being part of the FOX 2 team. The people here are professional and thoroughly entertaining, and I can't wait for my next assignment.



Charlie handles many roles: FOX 2 legal analyst; a reporter; weekend morning anchor and also co-hosts "Let It Rip", "Let It Rip Weekend" and "Let it Rip On the Road."

On April 22, Dr. Chris J Kobus, Director of Outreach, Recruitment and Retention, and Associate Professor at Oakland University School of Engineering and Computer Science, will speak to our club.

Dr. Kobus earned his Ph.D from Oakland University in 1988 and was hired by the university's School of Engineering and Computer Science. His specialties include clean energy and STEM education. He started teaching in the clean energy field in 2005 and that curriculum has expanded and now offers engineering students a concentration in alternative energy systems.

Dr. Kobus was instrumental in establishing Oakland University's Clean Energy Research Center, which includes academics, research, campus facilities, local business incubation, and K-12 outreach.

In addition to research, Dr. Kobus has taught 17 subjects, ranging from thermal and fluid sciences, solid mechanics and dynamics, alternative energy, and nuclear systems. 

At our March 25 Meeting, John Smith, a docent at the Detroit Institute of Arts following his retirement from a 30-year career as an Art Teacher, will present a DIA "Behind the Seen Talks about Art" PowerPoint presentation entitled "DIA : The Essentials."  Explore select DIA artworks to gain an appreciation of the diversity, quality, and world-class status of the museum's collection.

Mark Phelan, Detroit Free Press Auto Critic and Columnist, to speak March 11, 2025

Mark Phelan is auto critic and columnist for the Detroit Free Press. He began covering the auto industry in 1986, working for legendary automotive journalist David C. Smith at Ward's Communications in Detroit. At Ward’s, he specialized in reporting on new technology before moving to Europe to help establish the company’s international presence. In addition to living and working in Europe for two years, he has reported on the auto industry from Asia, Australia, South America and Africa.

Mark has contributed to numerous publications, including The New York Times, Road & Track, and The Car Connection. He is a regular guest on television and radio programs discussing trends shaping the auto industry. 

The son of an engineer, he has an affection for robust technology and clean design. He travels extensively for pleasure, frequently to music festivals. This led to knowledge of New Orleans that came in handy when he participated in the Free Press’ coverage of the aftermath of and recovery from Hurricane Katrina.

Mark studied journalism at Michigan State University. He is the winner of several awards, is a juror for North American Car and Truck of the Year and is the former president of the Automotive Press Association in Detroit.

Mark was born in Thomasville, Georgia, to Irish parents.

Donald B. Taylor, Ph.D.

President, University of Detroit Mercy



Donald B. Taylor, Ph.D., will be our speaker on February 11th. Dr. Taylor became the 26th president of University of Detroit Mercy on July 1, 2022.

Detroit Mercy is thriving under his leadership. In 2023, the University was ranked No. 52 in the nation on the Wall Street Journal/College Pulse list of best institutions of higher education in the country. That makes it Michigan’s second highest-ranking university and fourth among Catholic institutions nationally. In addition, a Georgetown University study put UDM in the top 10% nationally in terms of the return on investment in a college degree.

Taylor has been responsible for many forward-thinking efforts in his brief tenure. Partnerships with state and federal agencies are providing new opportunities for UDM students and the communities they serve. The U.S. Department of Defense is working with the University in establishing the Metro Detroit Regional Vehicle Cybersecurity Institute, and the U.S. Department of Energy invested nearly $4 million in a program that will have UDM students working with Detroit-area nonprofits to reduce their carbon output.

In addition, the University has expanded partnerships in healthcare education, opened the Detroit Mercy Eye Clinic, and made major investments in facility improvements and campus beautification efforts.



Students, too, are listening and the University is experiencing a record surge in enrollment. Donors are responding as well and their gifts to the University are also setting records, helping the University increase educational opportunities, facilities and scholarships.

Taylor earned a B.S. in education and a Ph.D. in cell and molecular biology from the University of Memphis. He spent 22 years with Benedictine University in Lisle, Ill., where he was ultimately provost and chief academic officer. He left Benedictine to serve as president of Cabrini University, a private Roman Catholic University near Philadelphia, where he stayed for eight years before coming to Detroit Mercy.

Taylor’s research interests have included the biochemical, cellular and molecular mechanisms of blood platelet aggregation, blood clot formation, and cell-cell interactions, and the design, synthesis, and characterization of novel pharmaceutical compounds for the use in the study of hemostasis and thrombosis. His research interests in higher education have included problem-based learning, effective partnerships in science education at the K-16 level, and educational technologies.

He has published more than 40 peer-reviewed abstracts, manuscripts, and reviews in scientific journals and has given and participated in more than 60 presentations on science and higher education. Taylor has received 20 awards for teaching, research, and service and secured millions of dollars in extramural funding, including large awards from the Department of Energy, Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the National Science Foundation.

Taylor and his wife, Lechia, a nurse and certified case manager, have a son, Seth. They live in University Commons neighborhood in Detroit

Michael Dzialo, President and Chief Investment Officer, Managed Asset Portfolios

Michael Dzialo, President and Chief Investment Officer of Managed Asset Portfolios (MAP), will speak to the Club on January 28th on what he sees in today's stock market and in the economy moving forward.

Michael has over 35 years of experience in the investment industry and started his career at Detroit-based Olde Discount Brokerage, where he rose from a Junior Analyst to the Director of Research before founding his own firm in 2000. He is a frequent speaker and has been giving annual presentations on similar topics to the Senior Men’s Club of Birmingham for 20 years now.

MAP started out with one account and $50 Million from a Forbes 400 individual, and currently manages $1.25 Billion for high-net-worth individuals as well as public and financial institutions. Their value-based approach has won numerous accolades from Broadridge, MorningStar, and PSN, including multiple 5-Star, and Manager of the Decade Awards.

For more information on MAP see MAP

Alexis DeLuca, Associate Broker, Real Estate One - Grosse Pointe Farms will speak on the Grosse Pointe real estate market.

2024 President-Elect, Haper Woods/Grosse Pointe Chapter, GP Board of Realtors

2021 President, GP Board of Realtors  

2020 Vice-Chair, Grosse Pointe Chamber of Commerce

2020-2023 Director, Main Street Grosse Pointe

Alexis prides herself on professionalism, personalized careful service, and an expert ability to calmly navigate you thorough the unique circumstances that come with each and every transaction. Relationships play a major role in this industry. She knows how important it is to have an enjoyable, comfortable, experience with an agent you feel can confidently represent you.  

Alexis DeLuca is an *almost* life-long Grosse Pointer. She has chosen to live, work, and raise her family in Grosse Pointe. When she isn't assisting her clients, you may find her volunteering with her childrens' schools, sports teams, and stage productions, playing tennis with friends, or taking a walk with her husband and two dogs through the beautiful neighborhood. 

Joshua Elling, CEO of Jefferson East, Inc. will speak on November 26th

Joshua Elling, CEO of Jefferson East, Inc., will speak November 26th on the challenges and opportunities facing the Jefferson-Chalmers area of Detroit. Elling is a respected and seasoned CEO with more than 15 years' experience in staff management, civic engagement, and crisis response. He has a proven track record of growth, innovation and outreach during times of economic and community crisis. He is an expert presenter, collaborator, and builder of cross functional teams. able to forge trusted partnerships and build consensus among diverse stakeholders to drive towards inclusive economic and social development goals. He has a deep understanding of the independent sector, local government, commercial real estate, economic development, and financial institutions. Jefferson East, Inc., a nonprofit organization, partners with neighborhood residents and businesses to support development, greater resources, and investments. Formed in 1994 as the Jefferson East Business Association (JEBA), the organization was created out a desire of residents to bring a modern retail development to the Jefferson-Chalmers business district. The organization quickly moved from a grassroots start-up to a more sophisticated, professionally managed entity. With additional staff members focused on encouraging entrepreneurship, the goal was driving business growth to fill vacant store fronts. Quickly recognizing the unique urban form of the Jefferson-Chalmers business district, (one of the few largely intact neighborhood commercial districts within the city), leadership began to utilize innovative interventions to bolster the area.

He has a Masters Degree in Urban Planning/Economic Development from Wayne State University.

Mil Hurley is the founder of A Southern Gardner, a business that services the gardens of the Pointes and the eastside of Detroit using natural, and when possible, organic processes. We enjoy restoring, rejuvenating and refreshing your landscape through natural practices grown from experience.

On November 12th, Mil will speak about the Moross Greenway project. https://www.morossgreenway.org/

From Mil Hurley:

I am a farmer’s daughter from North Carolina. Gardening is in my blood.

My early influences were my grandmother, aunt, and a dear family friend, Elizabeth Lawrence, a garden writer for the News & Observer in Raleigh, and author of an extensive collection of books about the beauty of gardens. Even though my degree from St. Mary-of-the-Woods College in Terra Haute, Indiana, was theatre, I couldn’t deny my passion for the earth and taking care of it. In 1994, I became a certified Advance Master Gardener through the Michigan State University Extension Service. It is a joy that I can combine both loves, theatre and gardening, and host our local cable gardening show “Pointes of Horticulture.”

I believe in sharing my knowledge and love by helping my community.

I believe in being, and teaching how to be, a caretaker of the garden.

I believe that all the little actions of creating beauty and health with the earth will have a large impact – just like ripples created by throwing a pebble in a puddle.

The Moross Greenway Project is a non-profit organization dedicated to beautifying and enhancing the Eastside Detroit community by creating a greenscape along Moross Road. This collaborative effort involves various stakeholders, including civic groups, churches, businesses, and garden clubs, working together to re-landscape the median islands on Moross Road between Ascension St. John Hospital and I-94.

Key goals of the project include:

* Creating a welcoming environment: The greenscape will improve the overall aesthetic appeal of the area, making it more inviting for residents and visitors alike.

* Promoting sustainability: Native plants will be used to create a sustainable and attractive landscape that requires minimal maintenance.

* Enhancing the community: The project aims to foster a sense of pride and ownership among residents by involving them in the beautification process.

The Moross Greenway Project has been successful in transforming the once-dilapidated median islands into vibrant green spaces. Volunteers from the community regularly maintain the landscaping, and the project has also incorporated public art installations to further enhance the area's appeal.

Here are some additional details about the project:

* Location: Moross Road, Detroit, Michigan

* Scope: Re-landscaping seven median islands

* Partners: Civic groups, churches, businesses, garden clubs

* Goals: Beautification, sustainability, community enhancement

* Achievements: Transformation of median islands, public art installations

If you're interested in learning more about the Moross Greenway Project or getting involved, you can visit their website or contact them directly.

Tom Gage, Detroit Tigers beat writer for 36 years, accompanied by Lance Parrish, former Detroit Tigers catcher who helped lead his team to the 1984 World Series championship,

Tom Gage began his career at The Times-Picayune in the early 1970s before moving to The Detroit News in 1976. He spent 39 years on the News sports staff, and 36 years as the Tigers beat writer, until retiring from the paper in March 2015, after being reassigned from the beat a month prior.

Following his retirement from The Detroit News in March 2015, it was announced that he was hired as a columnist for Fox Sports Detroit, where he began writing commentary and analysis of the Tigers from their spring training complex. His job at Fox Sports Detroit only lasted three months, when Fox Sports dismissed all of their regional web sportswriters on June 30, 2015.

Tom Gage was awarded the J. G. Taylor Spink Award in 2015 by Baseball Writers' Association of America, in the closest balloting in the history of the award. He received 167 votes of the record 463 ballots cast, while late columnist Furman Bisher of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution received 161 votes. On June 13, 2016, Gage was honored by the Michigan Jewish Sports Foundation with the Dick Schaap Award for Media Excellence at its 26th Annual Hank Greenberg Memorial Golf Invitational. On September 9, 2016, he was inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame in Detroit, Michigan.

Tom Gage is a graduate of Washington & Lee University.

Born in Pennsylvania, Lance Parrish grew up in Southern California and excelled in both baseball and football. He was drafted by the Detroit Tigers in 1974, and after four years in the minor leagues, he played for the Tigers for a decade from 1977 to 1986. He later played for the Philadelphia Phillies (1987–1988), California Angels (1989–1992), Seattle Mariners (1992), Cleveland Indians (1993), Pittsburgh Pirates (1994), and Toronto Blue Jays (1995).

Parrish helped lead the Tigers to the 1984 World Series championship, was selected as an All-Star eight times (1980, 1982–1986, 1988, 1990), and won six Silver Slugger Awards (1980, 1982–1984, 1986, 1990) and three Gold Glove Awards (1983–1985). Over his 19 MLB seasons, he compiled a .252 batting average with 324 home runs, and 1,070 runs batted in (RBIs). At the time of his retirement, he ranked fourth in major-league history in home runs by a catcher and seventh in games played at the position.

Jennifer Boettcher, President and Executive Director of the Grosse Pointe Chamber of Commerce, will speak on October 8th

At our September 24 meeting, Betsy Alexander, Historical Education Coordinator for The War Memorial, will discuss the history of the Alger Family and the Alger House, which was donated by the family to The War Memorial.

John Gallagher, Veteran Journalist and Author

John Gallagher was born in New York City, educated at DePaul University in Chicago and Columbia University in New York. His first job in 1974 was in Chicago, with subsequent stops in Rochester and Syracuse, New York, before he joined the Detroit Free Press in 1987 to cover urban and economic redevelopment efforts in Detroit and Michigan. He is a 2017 inductee into the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame. John retired from the Detroit Free Press in 2019.

John continues to write about the City of Detroit as a freelancer and author. His other books include: "Reimagining Detroit: Opportunities for Redefining an American City" ,"Yamasaki in Detroit: A Search for Serenity", and "Revolution Detroit: Strategies for Urban Reinvention".

John R. Urso, Urso & Associates. P.C. and Co-Founder of Kevin's Song, to speak August 27th on mental health and the elderly

John R. Urso is the founder and principal attorney for Urso & Associates, P.C., a law firm with emphasis on litigation involving family law, real estate transactions, estate planning with the drafting of Wills and Trusts, and alternative dispute resolution.

John is also currently a part-time Case Evaluator for Wayne County Mediation Tribunal Association (1979 to present). In his career, he was a part-time Visiting Judge, Wayne County Circuit Court (1980-1985), full-time Associate Professor of Law at University of Detroit-Mercy Law School (1972-1980), and part-time Municipal Judge, Grosse Pointe Park (1974-1978).

John received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from University of Michigan in 1965 and a Juris Doctor of Law Degree from Wayne State University Law School in 1968.

John and his wife, Gail, co-founded Kevin's Song in 2014 in honor of their son Kevin, who committed suicide at age 41 on March 23, 2013, and to give a voice to his memory. Kevin's Song is a charitable non-profit organization dedicated to generating public awareness about the causes of suicide, its prevalence in our society, and possible preventive measures. Through conferences, workshops, a documentary film, and its website, Kevin's Song provides up-to-date information on the impacts of suicide and helpful resources to keep our community safer. 

At our August 13th meeting, Theresa Selvaggio, Director of Development for the Grosse Pointe Theatre, will discuss the upcoming 2024-25 season and the anticipated move into the Schaap Center for Performing Arts in the fall of 2025

Theresa Selvaggio recently completed three years as President of Grosse Pointe Theatre. She has a long history on the group’s Board of Directors and was chair of the Long Range Planning Committee. Theresa joined the group in 1976 and has been a valuable member since, charming audiences in many on-stage roles, participating as Makeup Chair for several shows and helping backstage and administratively whenever needed.

Professionally, Theresa has been employed by Estee Lauder since 1978 and is currently a Regional Vice President. 

She has a long list of leadership credits, including Board positions with The Grosse Pointe War Memorial, Holley Ear Institute & Wayne County Council for the Arts; Chair positions for The Breast Cancer Research Foundation – Chicago fundraising, Gleaner’s Community Food Banks Women’s Power Breakfast, Fontbonne Auxiliary for St. John’s Hospital, Van Elslander Cancer Center – corporate fundraising; and many other leadership positions. She was a keynote speaker at a Fashion Group International Career Day and was named “1995 Style Maker of the Year”. 

Theresa attended Wayne State University and executive programs at Vassar College, Aspen Institute and the Leonard A. Lauder Executive Symposium.

Jaime Rae Turnbull, Executive Director, 

Schaap Center for Performing Arts, will provide an update on the construction of the new facility in GPP on July 9th

With over 25 years experience in networking and cultivating relationships with high net worth individuals and business leaders, Jaime Rae Turnbull's diverse background offers first-hand project management, real estate, fundraising, marketing and event expertise to a wide array of clients.

In 2008, Jaime Rae formed JR Turnbull Communications L.L.C., a full-service marketing and event planning business. Jaime Rae uses her experience, knowledge and vision to design custom philanthropic and marketing programs. Instrumental in connecting for-profit and non-profit organizations for mutually beneficial relationships, her innovative ideas are making a difference in the lives of many throughout the state of Michigan.

She also continued her passion for real estate by joining her family business, Higbie Maxon Agney.

In 2011, Jaime Rae combined her real estate development and project management skills providing owner's representative services for real estate properties. As a licensed real estate agent in Michigan, Jaime Rae provides branding and oversight for all facets of project development from inception to project completion including liaison to developer, builder, interior designer, architect and landscape architect.

R.J. King, Author and Editor DBusiness Magazine, will speak to the Club on June 25th

R.J. King is editor of DBusiness magazine, DBusiness Daily News, Tech and Mobility News, and Detroit 500. DBusiness covers companies in metro Detroit and Michigan that are expanding locally, nationally, and internationally. Areas of focus include businesses large and small, entrepreneurs, economic activity, and executive lifestyles. King has authored five books, "Grounds For Freedom: Saving Chernobyl," “Detroit: Engine of America (Gold Medal R, Midwest Book Awards),"  "8 Track: The First Mobile App,“ "Passport to the Corner Office: The Starter’s Guide to Corporate Life,” and “Mystical.” Since 2011, DBusiness magazine has been honored with more than 50 Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals in the Editorial Excellence Awards from the Alliance of Area Business Publishers, including being named the top regional business magazine in the country. Prior to launching DBusiness in 2006, Mr. King was a business writer for The Detroit News for 16 years, where he wrote more than 4,000 articles covering automotive, aerospace, health care, technology, transportation, and economic activity. Mr. King is a board member of Beyond Basics, the Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce, Detroit Aircraft Corp., Detroit Spacecraft Corp., and ASX. In addition, he serves on the Board of Trustees for The Parade Co. He is a member of the Detroit Athletic Club, and on the board of the DAC Executives Club and the DAC Car Club. He also is a member of the Boston-Edison Historic District and the University of Michigan Alumni Association. In 2014, Mr. King was inducted into the International Heritage Foundation’s Heritage Hall of Fame (as its youngest inductee).

Wayne County Sheriff Raphael Washington will speak to the Club on June 11th and discuss the new jail and other department initiatives.

Wayne County Sheriff Raphael Washington, a dedicated servant of Law Enforcement for over four decades, is a pillar of our community. In his role, Sheriff Washington manages three jail facilities: a Road Patrol, a Marine Unit, and a Mounted Division. He works in close collaboration with 43 cities and townships in his jurisdiction, supplementing law enforcement activities. Sheriff Washington's commitment to the community is further demonstrated by his oversight of the development activity of the new Wayne County Criminal Justice Center in Detroit, MI. As a lifelong resident of Wayne County, he is deeply involved in the community, serving on several community boards and holding key role as Director of Security for Greater Grace Temple and Pentecostal Assemblies of the World.

Sheriff Washington's approach to law enforcement is guided by his values of discernment and compassion. He has been quoted as saying, "Law enforcement leaders must be discerning in their decision-making, yet compassionate when making decisions that affect staff, the inmate population, and the general public." His extensive background in law enforcement, including working in jail and court operation supervision, inmate population management, policy development, compliance, and organizational functions, is a testament to his understanding and empathy. 

Sheriff Washington's commitment to education is a cornerstone of his professional journey. A proud graduate of the Detroit Public School system, he advocates for higher learning and continuing education. His academic accomplishments include a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice Management from Cleary University and graduation from Eastern Michigan University's School of Police Staff and Command. These achievements reflect his unwavering dedication to personal and professional growth. 

He has served as a firearms instructor for many years and is passionate about educating the community on gun safety. The Sheriff holds numerous local and national certifications, including:

• Being certified by the Michigan Coalition on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES)
• A Member of the Wayne County Chief of Police Association
• A Graduate of the FBI National Academy and a host of other local and national credentials
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Sheriff Washington is also a proud member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. Sheriff Washington is married to Keysha Washington; they have two children and four grandchildren.

The Honorable Lynne Pierce, a retired Wayne County Circuit Court judge and President of the League of Women Voters of Grosse Pointe, originally scheduled to speak to the Club on February 27th, will now speak on May 14th on New Developments in Election Law.

Lynne Pierce served as a municipal court judge for Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan, for twelve years and then as a municipal court judge for Grosse Pointe Woods for sixteen years before she was elected to the 3rd Circuit Court in 2008. She also previously served as a visiting judge in Wayne County. Judge Pierce received her J.D. degree from the Detroit College of Law.  

Stephanie Campeau, Associate Vice President, Stakeholder and Community Relations (Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority) will speak to the Club on April 23rd about the status of the Gordie Howe International Bridge

Stephanie Campeau is the Associate Vice President of Stakeholder and Community Relations at WDBA, with more than 20 years of experience as a professional communicator. Since 2015, Stephanie has led the development and implementation of a comprehensive engagement strategy which includes targeted stakeholder communication and consultation for WDBA in Canada and the United States. Prior to joining WDBA, Stephanie worked in a variety of sectors including post-secondary, automotive and utility. She holds a BA Honours degree in Communication Studies from the University of Windsor.

MICHAEL MONTRI, Vice President, INDYCAR Promoter and Broadcast Partnerships at Penske Entertainment, will speak to the Club on April 9th about the 2024 Detroit Grand Prix

Michael Montri begins his 30^th year with the Penske organization in 2024, with his fifth season serving as vice president of promoter and broadcast partnerships for INDYCAR.

Montri oversees the relationships with all current INDYCAR event promoters. Working closely with each promoter partner, Montri helps organize and manage the scheduling, television broadcast windows and the overall guest experience at all NTT INDYCAR SERIES events. He also helps identify and cultivate new promoter partnerships and prospective new locations and events for the future development of INDYCAR.

In addition to managing the relationships with INDYCAR’s current domestic broadcast partners, Montri is responsible for all international INDYCAR broadcast rights and sales with series programming reaching over 200 countries and territories worldwide. Montri also developed and launched INDYCAR’s direct-to-consumer streaming product – INDYCAR Live – which features all NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT presented by Firestone races, along with practice and qualifying sessions, as well as series archival content.

Since 2016, Montri has served as President of the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear – the annual event hosted on the Streets of Downtown Detroit that features both NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT by Firestone races. Montri also oversees the INDYCAR-promoted events in both Iowa and Milwaukee, serving as President of Hy-Vee INDYCAR Race Weekend at Iowa Speedway and the Milwaukee Mile 250 races that return to the series schedule in 2024.

A Michigan native and graduate of the University of Michigan, Montri first joined the Penske organization in 1994 as a marketing and public relations intern when the company owned and operated Michigan International Speedway. After working in the licensing division at Penske Motorsports, Montri became director of corporate sales for North Carolina Speedway in Rockingham, North Carolina.

In 2001, Montri transitioned from racing to Penske Automotive Group (PAG), serving in various roles, including operating retail automotive dealerships and as vice president of procurement for PAG. He embraced the opportunity to return to his racing roots to lead the Detroit Grand Prix team in 2016 and his roles and responsibilities have continued to grow since Penske Entertainment Corp. acquired INDYCAR and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2020.

Joshua Elling, CEO of Jefferson East, Inc., will speak on the challenges and opportunities facing the Jefferson-Chalmers area of Detroit.

Elling is a respected and seasoned CEO with more than 15 years' experience in staff management, civic engagement, and crisis response. He has a proven track record of growth, innovation and outreach during times of economic and community crisis. He is an expert presenter, collaborator, and builder of cross functional teams. able to forge trusted partnerships and build consensus among diverse stakeholders to drive towards inclusive economic and social development goals. He has a deep understanding of the independent sector, local government, commercial real estate, economic development, and financial institutions.

Jefferson East, Inc., a nonprofit organization, partners with neighborhood residents and businesses to support development, greater resources, and investments.

Formed in 1994 as the Jefferson East Business Association (JEBA), the organization was created out a desire of residents to bring a modern retail development to the Jefferson-Chalmers business district. The organization quickly moved from a grassroots start-up to a more sophisticated, professionally managed entity. With additional staff members focused on encouraging entrepreneurship, the goal was driving business growth to fill vacant store fronts. Quickly recognizing the unique urban form of the Jefferson-Chalmers business district, (one of the few largely intact neighborhood commercial districts within the city), leadership began to utilize innovative interventions to bolster the area. JEBA pioneered a matching façade grant program to improve and stabilize more than 40 historic storefronts, and implemented the first traditional Main Street zoning overlay and a local historic district to support a pedestrian oriented environment. JEBA created Jazzin’ on Jefferson (JOJ), a unique arts and music festival which ran for fourteen years. JOJ was designed to raise the profile of the business district and surrounding neighborhoods.

Jonathan McGrail will speak March 26th on Cybersecurity, including internet safety, identity theft and other internet security issues.

McGrail has in the Information Technology support and engineering field for almost 35 years, a majority of it in the healthcare sector providing support to large hospitals. Support ranges from everyday use client devices (phones, laptops, and desktops) all the way to managing servers needed by the company.

In approximately 2001 he was sworn in as a Reserve Deputy Sheriff working in the Cyber Crimes unit. "Our original charter was to chat with online predators. over the years we became more proactive doing talks to educate. To my credit I have 5 confirmed arrests and convictions. Our reserves unit then shifted our focus to education. I present internet safety, identity theft, and other internet security talks to school kids from Grade 1 - 12, adult groups from 18 to upward." 

McGrail is a graduate of Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Technology and Industrial Engineering, a Master of Science in Administration and Information Resource Management, and a Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security.

Lucas C. McGrail, Associate AIA, LEED® AP, speaks on the Ford renovation of the Michigan central station on March 12th.

Lucas McGrail is an architect and Detroit historian who has lived in or around Detroit since 1979 and has worked for Cannon Design, The Garrison Company, & Walbridge Aldinger. He holds aBachelor’s degree in Architecture from the University of Detroit Mercy, a Master’s degree in Architecture from Lawrence Tech, he operates the Detroit Artifacts Museum Facebook page, and has been involved with the re-gentrification of many abandoned but historic buildings in Detroit. Currently he is employed by the City of Detroit as an Act 54 certified building inspector and plan reviewer and is the Supervisor for the Dangerous Building Division.

Lucas is a frequent lecturer at colleges and community organizations on the history and architecture of Detroit. He is recognized in the community as a Detroit expert. He has been cited in local newspapers & media as well as national publications, such as the Metro Times, Hour Magazine, Utne Reader, Travel & Leisure, and TheTimes Media Group.   

At our February 13th Meeting, Marick Masters, Professor of Management at the Ilitch School of Business at Wayne State University and an expert in negotiation and disputes, will talk about the auto strike - its significance, its outcomes, its consequences, and its impact on the industry.

Marick F. Masters is a professor of business in the Department of Management and Information Systems at the Mike Ilitch School of Business at Wayne State University. At WSU, he has served as director of Labor@Wayne, which included the Douglas A. Fraser Center for Workplace Issues (2009-2019) and Chair of the Departments of Accounting (2020-2022) and Finance (2019-2022).

Marick’s research and teaching interests lie in negotiations and conflict resolution, unions, business and labor political action, federal sector labor-management relations, human resource management and employee relations, workplace privacy and workplace violence.

He received his Ph.D. in labor and industrial relations from the University of Illinois. Marick has served on the faculties of the Department of Management at Texas A&M University and the Katz Graduate School of Business at the University of Pittsburgh, where he was director of M.B.A. programs and associate dean (interim). He has published four books (Unions at the Crossroads [1997], The Complete Guide to Conflict Resolution in the Workplace [2002], The UAW: An Iconic Union Falls in Scandal [2021], and Trade Union Finance: How Labor Organizations Raise and Spend Money [forthcoming, 2023]) and more than 100 articles, proceedings and columns.

Marick has directed several executive education programs, served on the boards of several professional associations, co-hosted a radio program and been a guest columnist for several publications. He has commented widely in the media, engaged extensively in executive development and fundraising, and received teaching and service awards. Marick has produced videos on labor arbitration, employment mediation and employment arbitration (through a grant from the National Academy of Arbitrators), and has conducted extensive research on the role of labor-management partnerships in the federal sector through a grant from the U.S. Office of Personnel Management. He is a senior partner in Albright, Irr, and Masters (AIM), a consulting firm based in New London, CT. Marick has taught extensively in executive education programs and at the doctoral, M.B.A. and undergraduate levels. His research has been published in leading journals in management, industrial relations, public administration and political science. Marick is also a former candidate for the U.S. Congress in Pennsylvania. His research and teaching interests are in negotiations, business and labor political activities, and union finances.

At our January 23rd Meeting, Jill Elder, Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer at Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and Alex Kapordelis, Senior Director of Development for the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, will update us on news from the Detroit Symphony.

About Jill Elder

Jill Elder serves as Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. She oversees Advancement, Communications and Media Relations, and Marketing and Audience Development. In this role, she is responsible for partnering with staff and volunteers to raise and earn funds which ensure balanced budgets, an enhanced endowment, patron loyalty, and increased brand awareness. Elder was hired in 2017 and served as Vice President and Chief Development Officer.

Prior to joining the DSO, Jill had a 20-year career with the American Cancer Society. Throughout her tenure, she demonstrated significant success in cultivating strong donor and volunteer partnerships to increase revenue and expand the Society’s network of supporters across communities in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee, and West Virginia.

Jill is a graduate of Leadership Detroit and Michigan State University. She resides in Farmington Hills, Michigan, with her husband and three children.

About Alexander Kapordelis

Alex Kapordelis serves as Senior Director of Development for the Detroit Symphony Orchestra.  He was hired in 2018 as Campaign Director, responsible for developing and executing the DSO’s five-year endowment campaign fundraising plan. Presently, Alex oversees the 14-person Advancement Department with an annual contributed revenue goal of more than $19 million, where he focuses relentlessly on cultivating an inclusive fundraising community and connecting people through the arts.

Prior to joining the DSO, Alex’ career in fund development spanned the cultural and healthcare sectors in Chicago, IL. Professional highlights include responsibility for designing and implementing the fundraising plan to support the comprehensive, $400 million transformation of Navy Pier along with supporting the recruitment of the volunteer leadership team who would make the vision of the now Shirley Ryan AbilityLab a reality.

Throughout his career, Alex has focused on the value of working in partnership with the communities we exist to serve, and that paradigm has been a driving force in his professional journey.

Alex is a graduate of the University of Michigan. He resides in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan, with his wife and two young children.

At our January 9th Meeting, John Zupanc will speak on "The Fallacies of Electric Vehicles"

John Zupanc graduated from the University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario. BSEE (Electrical Engineering) and has a longstanding experience in Manufacturing Engineer/Production as Supv GM of Canada, Windsor, Ont. on Development and maintenance of electrical/electronic machine control (PLC) systems, and held a Supervisory position of 60 hourly employees on an assembly line with 95 percent uptime and 99 percent FTC. Manufacturing Engineer at Ford Motor Co. of Canada, Windsor, Ont. where he developed and maintained electrical/electronic machine control (PLC) systems.

November 28th Meeting

At our November 28th meeting, Dan Clark will lead a discussion about the results of a recent survey of our members and what it means for the direction of our Club.

Great Lakes Water Part II

William Wolfson to speak to Club on October 24th

On October 24, William M. Wolfson will examine the water resources issues and opportunities facing the region and Grosse Pointes and the water system itself in this second of a two-part series on Great Lakes Water.

Part I of the series provided historical background and key events in the system’s development. Part II picks up with the creation of the Great Lakes Water Authority in 2014 and covers the past ten years and the future.

All with an interest in the lakes are invited to attend the luncheon at the War Memorial, 32 Lake Shore in Grosse Pointe Farms. The October 24 meeting begins at 11:00 a.m. and ends at 1:00 p.m. Registration is $20 per person. Reservations can be made by calling Jerry Teagan 313-303-5559 or emailing gpmcattendance@gmail.com.

Prior to assuming this position, Mr. Wolfson served as the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department’s (DWSD) Chief Administrative and Compliance Officer as well as its General Counsel. He joined DWSD as the utility’s first General Counsel in June 2012 and added the position of Chief Operating and Compliance Officer in August 2013.

 Wolfson began his career in government as a seasonal Detroit Zoo employee. He later joined the City of Detroit Law Department as an attorney in 1986 and served in the Law Department under Mayors Coleman Young and Dennis Archer until 1998, working as the legal liaison to the Detroit City Council and on several key initiatives such as the casino and stadium development projects.

Upon leaving the City of Detroit, Wolfson moved to Wayne County’s Department of Corporation Counsel and was appointed Deputy Corporation Counsel by County Executive Edward McNamara. The succeeding County Executive, Robert Ficano, appointed Wolfson to the position of assistant Deputy County Executive/Director of Legal Affairs. In that position, Wolfson was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the county government and its 4,500 employees.

Wolfson retired from his Wayne County position in July 2009. He then went into private practice and contracted to serve as Wayne County’s Interim Corporation Counsel.  

He is a graduate of the University of Michigan and the University of Minnesota Law School.

Great Lakes Water the Subject of a Two-Part Special Series by the Men’s Club of Grosse Pointe

“ Water, water everywhere ….. and nary a drop to drink.” This verse from the landmark poem Rime of the Ancient Mariner, Samuel Taylor Coleridge‘s 19^th century epic is an apt introduction to the Men’s club of Grosse Pointe’s two-part special program October 10 and October 24 on Great Lakes water ‘s unique and vital role serving our region’s health, water, sanitation and commercial and recreational needs – the triumphs and the challenges in harnessing, renewing and sustaining this unique defining asset and the region it serves.

Beginning with a Great Lakes regional perspective and drilling down to the Detroit-Grosse Pointe environs of this huge basin that is home to 20% of the world’s fresh water, the two-part series  will explore the Great Lakes impact on the Grosse Pointes and take a look at the future.

All with an interest in the lakes are invited to attend the two luncheon sessions at the War Memorial, 32 Lake Shore in Grosse Pointe Farms. The October 10 meeting begins at 11:00 a.m. and ends at 1:00 p.m. Registration is $20 per person.  Reservations can be made by calling Jerry Teagan 313-303-5559 or emailing gpmcattendance@gmail.com.

Part One of the program on October 10 will deal with the historical development of the Great Lakes and the Detroit Region. It will be presented by the Club’s own John McGrail, who was long involved in the development and growth of the system until his retirement in 2011 as Head Civil Engineer-Wastewater Construction Group of the regional utility formerly known as the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department. He held that title from 1989 until 2011 and was responsible as Owner’s Representative for the construction of more than 100 construction contracts worth more than $1 billion. These contracts spanned all locations of the department. Though predominantly at the Wastewater Treatment Plant, his group worked in all the system’s water treatment plants, pump stations and combined sewer overflow facilities.

Prior to arriving at the wastewater treatment plant, McGrail worked on the staff of the Assistant Administrator for Operations during the plant’s efforts to recover from its failure to comply with both air and water discharge permits. Born in Waterbury, Connecticutt,  McGrail is a graduate of the University of Maine with a major in Civil Engineering and a Sanitary Engineering option.

Before joining the utility in 1979, McGrail worked for the Maine Public Utilities Commission providing analysis of the numerous problems facing the state’s small rural water utilities. He is married with three children.

Part Two of the program on October 24 will be presented by William Wolfson, Chief Administrative and Compliance Officer of  the Great Lakes Water Authority, and will deal with developments since 2014. More on Mr. Wolfson and the Authority in the next release.

The Men’s Club of Grosse Pointe will focus on important changes coming to Medicare, Tuesday, September 26, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at The War Memorial in Grosse Pointe Farms. Victor Whang, president of the Insurance Warehouse and also regionally well known as The Insurance Professor, Radio 1400 AM and a leading consultant and voice on Medicare for seniors, will cover a number of the significant changes coming to Medicare and trends in the Medicare marketplace .

Whang will provide copies of his presentation for reference and note taking. Spouses, significant others, care givers or others who work with, assist, or support seniors are encouraged to attend. Cost of the buffet luncheon is $20. Reservations can be made by calling Jerry Teagan 313-303-5559 or emailing gpmcattendance@gmail.com.  

Whang has many years of experience in health and benefits plan designs and also has his own radio program on AM 1400 the Patriot. He is an active blogger. He is engaged as a member of the National Association of Health Underwriters on significant Medicare issues in Washington, DC. Every year, he travels to DC to update himself and associates on key trends and issues, and to voice the concerns of the marketplace to legislators and regulators.

Medicare provides health insurance coverage to 65 million people in the U.S., including 57 million older adults and nearly 8 million younger adults with disabilities. Coverage of Medicare benefits is provided through either traditional Medicare or Medicare Advantage private plans. It affects the health care of nearly every senior in our Grosse Pointe communities.  

Henry Payne, Auto Critic for The Detroit News, to speak on September 12th



Henry Payne will share his insights on the automotive scene in Detroit and key trends in the automotive industry. All automotive sycophants, gearheads, car lovers and Detroiters are welcome to attend. 

A ‘Renaissance Man’, Henry Payne is The Detroit News auto critic, a syndicated editorial cartoonist, and radio host. A 30-year newspaper veteran, he contributes auto reviews, videos, and product reporting to The News.He also hosts the weekly "Car Radio" program for 910 AM Detroit and produces a weekly comic called "Car-toon." The lifetime motorhead is an active race driver, Pulitzer-Prize-nominated cartoonist, and has published three books. Recent feature stories and podcasts include the ’23 Detroit Grand Prix – leaders and drivers - the Buick Encore GX, the Kia Niro vs. the VW Golf GTI, Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison, Mustang GT3,Stellantis Alpha 3.0, and EV commentary. He also writes articles for the National Review. 

Born in Charleston, West Virginia, Payne graduated from Princeton in 1984 and in1986 moved to Washington, DC to work with ScrippsHoward News Service as an editorial cartoon artist. In 1999, Payne replaced the News’ Draper Hill, who retired, as their cartoonist.