Its 3:25 pm
Welcome to an another edition of my ongoing interview series,"8 Questions with.....". I started this waaaay back when on another social media site and have re-started it here. The series features people from all over who in one way or another have perked my interest. So I ask to do a interview where they answer the questions themselves,in their own words.
Sitting outside the city of Detroit the past 15 years has been a real education for me. I moved here from San Jose,California when Lori and I met.
I really knew very little about Detroit other then cars were made there,Jimmy Hoffa was murdered in a nearby town and of course,the sports teams.
Sitting here and watching the decline and destruction of once was a great and proud city has been rough to watch. Sitting 25 miles from it is a hell of a lot different from being IN the middle of it. I have written many blogs about Detroit,both good and bad...about the places Lori and I went to,to the tireless people working hard to make a difference and the ones always looking to "get theirs" at the expense of others.
One such person who could have made a REAL difference was Kwame Kilpatrick when he was elected mayor,not once but twice. He made a difference alright and not for the better and Detroit's image took a savage beating as Kilpatrick and several cronies were arrested and sent to prison.
Dave Bing came on as the new mayor and again,hope rose as he brought along a crack staff to help him try and reverse the damage from Kwame.
Karen Dumas was one of those sharp and dedicated people that Bing brought along. As the spokeswoman for Mayor Bing,she brought a real sense of what Bing was hoping to create here in the city.
Every day Karen would talk to other leaders,the news media and citizens as the mayor's voice. She was strong,whip smart and hard working. While those traits are always in demand elsewhere,in Detroit,it merely puts a target on your back as former police chief Warren Evans and one of the cops who helped bring Kwame Kilpatrick to justice,Gary Brown,can attest to. Asking people to work as hard as you can get you in deep trouble as Karen found out. After Bing became mayor,he started losing that great staff to various issues,some real and in Karen's case,rather "dubious". A employee who had a ax to grind made several claims against Karen and instead of subjecting the city and its people to another circus,Karen regretfully and graciously stepped down. It was a real loss to both Bing and the city as after this,it seemed the city went sort of leaderless as soon after the deputy mayor retired unexpectedly and several appointments that Bing made blew up in his face causing more problems.
Karen has hit the ground flying,between her various news shows guest spots,she has own public relations firm,Images and Ideas,Inc that is even now trying to get new businesses into the city. All this plus a wife and mother,Karen is one very person.
I have to admit,when I asked Karen for this interview,I really didn't think I would land such a high profile figure here. I like to thank Karen for agreeing to the interview and my friend Susan for her editorial advice.
And now.......8 Questions with.........Karen Dumas
(courtesy of Karen Dumas)
What was it like growing up in the Dumas house? Were your parents involved in public service?
Welcome to an another edition of my ongoing interview series,"8 Questions with.....". I started this waaaay back when on another social media site and have re-started it here. The series features people from all over who in one way or another have perked my interest. So I ask to do a interview where they answer the questions themselves,in their own words.
Sitting outside the city of Detroit the past 15 years has been a real education for me. I moved here from San Jose,California when Lori and I met.
I really knew very little about Detroit other then cars were made there,Jimmy Hoffa was murdered in a nearby town and of course,the sports teams.
Sitting here and watching the decline and destruction of once was a great and proud city has been rough to watch. Sitting 25 miles from it is a hell of a lot different from being IN the middle of it. I have written many blogs about Detroit,both good and bad...about the places Lori and I went to,to the tireless people working hard to make a difference and the ones always looking to "get theirs" at the expense of others.
One such person who could have made a REAL difference was Kwame Kilpatrick when he was elected mayor,not once but twice. He made a difference alright and not for the better and Detroit's image took a savage beating as Kilpatrick and several cronies were arrested and sent to prison.
Dave Bing came on as the new mayor and again,hope rose as he brought along a crack staff to help him try and reverse the damage from Kwame.
Karen Dumas was one of those sharp and dedicated people that Bing brought along. As the spokeswoman for Mayor Bing,she brought a real sense of what Bing was hoping to create here in the city.
Every day Karen would talk to other leaders,the news media and citizens as the mayor's voice. She was strong,whip smart and hard working. While those traits are always in demand elsewhere,in Detroit,it merely puts a target on your back as former police chief Warren Evans and one of the cops who helped bring Kwame Kilpatrick to justice,Gary Brown,can attest to. Asking people to work as hard as you can get you in deep trouble as Karen found out. After Bing became mayor,he started losing that great staff to various issues,some real and in Karen's case,rather "dubious". A employee who had a ax to grind made several claims against Karen and instead of subjecting the city and its people to another circus,Karen regretfully and graciously stepped down. It was a real loss to both Bing and the city as after this,it seemed the city went sort of leaderless as soon after the deputy mayor retired unexpectedly and several appointments that Bing made blew up in his face causing more problems.
Karen has hit the ground flying,between her various news shows guest spots,she has own public relations firm,Images and Ideas,Inc that is even now trying to get new businesses into the city. All this plus a wife and mother,Karen is one very person.
I have to admit,when I asked Karen for this interview,I really didn't think I would land such a high profile figure here. I like to thank Karen for agreeing to the interview and my friend Susan for her editorial advice.
And now.......8 Questions with.........Karen Dumas
(courtesy of Karen Dumas)
What was it like growing up in the Dumas house? Were your parents involved in public service?
I grew up with my mother, but my parents—both of whom are
deceased—were the most generous I have ever seen. Not just by making donations,
but by being involved in that which made a difference in the lives of others,
individually and collectively. Whether giving gloves to the paperboy who had
none or hosting a cookout for those who participated in the neighborhood
clean-up day or supporting political efforts of a cause or candidate, there was
constant involvement. Politically or personally, I watched and was then engaged
in every level of productive participation. I learned that just because
something didn’t immediately impact you didn’t mean you shouldn’t be involved,
or not support who or what was right.
(courtesy Dave Bing Facebook)
How did you decide to work for Dave Bing? Do you have
regrets in doing so?
The Bing administration was the 3rd
mayoral administration for which I had worked: The Scott administration in
Highland Park, the Kilpatrick administration and then Bing. I was contacted by
Charlie Beckham and Dave Bing asking to join the administration because they
needed help on the communications side. I said no twice, but after several
conversations offered to accept it on an interim basis, which indeed it was. I
have no regrets.
What is the biggest difference in adjusting to a public
service job from a private sector job?
The majority of
my professional career has been in the private sector—my own company, which I
started when I was 24 after leaving Highland Park. So, the adjustment has
always been the other way around—operating within the confines of government
where accountability and performance were dictated or limited by politics and process.
(courtesy of Karen Dumas)
Deputy Mayor Saul Green
(courtesy of bing.com)
Former Detroit police chief Warren Evans
(courtesy of bing.com)
(courtesy of Karen Dumas)
Deputy Mayor Saul Green
(courtesy of bing.com)
Former Detroit police chief Warren Evans
(courtesy of bing.com)
It seemed to many that as Dave Bing forced his more talented
and skilled members to either resign or face being fired,his lack of leadership
caused Detroit's sharp decline and the into getting a EM put in charge...how
would you respond to that?
The Mayor was unique in that he gave his staff—all of them-the autonomy and support to do their job; the challenge was that many didn’t do so, which undermined his ability to be more effective. And, he was nicer than he was political. While the EM was appointed on his watch, the financial compromise of the city was a culmination of decisions—or lack thereof—of every administration before.
The Mayor was unique in that he gave his staff—all of them-the autonomy and support to do their job; the challenge was that many didn’t do so, which undermined his ability to be more effective. And, he was nicer than he was political. While the EM was appointed on his watch, the financial compromise of the city was a culmination of decisions—or lack thereof—of every administration before.
Did you volunteer to resign or did Bing force you out like
he did Warren Evans? Have you and Dave Bing talked since he has left office?
In an appointed position, you serve at the pleasure of the mayor. It is a temporary position—whether it ends before or when the administration does. So, no one is ever forced out, some just publicly oppose the decision that the mayor rightfully retains. It’s never personal for me, and the mayor and I continue to be friends.
In an appointed position, you serve at the pleasure of the mayor. It is a temporary position—whether it ends before or when the administration does. So, no one is ever forced out, some just publicly oppose the decision that the mayor rightfully retains. It’s never personal for me, and the mayor and I continue to be friends.
How important is ego in doing such a high profile job such
as the one you held?
It’s very important—that you DON’T have one. Because people are pulling at you from every direction, and being complimentary in so many ways it is important to not lose sight of the fact that it is not you, it is what people think you can do for them; that they treat you a certain way because of where you are, not always who you are, and at the end of the day it is not about you but all and only about the citizens you serve—the true reason why everyone is (or should be) in office.
It’s very important—that you DON’T have one. Because people are pulling at you from every direction, and being complimentary in so many ways it is important to not lose sight of the fact that it is not you, it is what people think you can do for them; that they treat you a certain way because of where you are, not always who you are, and at the end of the day it is not about you but all and only about the citizens you serve—the true reason why everyone is (or should be) in office.
What is the state of the city compared to when you served on
Bing's staff?
Every administration builds on what was done, or not, in the previous administration. The current administration has the benefit of generous state support and resources, and an EM with powers no other administration has ever had. This should prove beneficial, but for whom is yet to be seen.
Every administration builds on what was done, or not, in the previous administration. The current administration has the benefit of generous state support and resources, and an EM with powers no other administration has ever had. This should prove beneficial, but for whom is yet to be seen.
Much has been made of color and race causing the incredible
amount of violence in the city,some believe it has gone deeper then mere color
and it now ingrained the culture,how can the folks here break the cycle? Your
thoughts?
There needs to be a very open, candid and non-judgmental discussion about race. People don’t want to talk about it because they want to pretend it doesn’t exist, but it does. We need to understand that people are different—not better or worse, but different; that crime is more about economics and culture than race, and that we need to see things and people for who they are first, rather than what color they are. Sounds good, but it’s a tall challenge that needs to be undertaken.
There needs to be a very open, candid and non-judgmental discussion about race. People don’t want to talk about it because they want to pretend it doesn’t exist, but it does. We need to understand that people are different—not better or worse, but different; that crime is more about economics and culture than race, and that we need to see things and people for who they are first, rather than what color they are. Sounds good, but it’s a tall challenge that needs to be undertaken.
You are now running your own Public Relations firm,Images and Ideas,Inc,as
such,how do you sell the city to outside investors and companies?
Detroit has always been intriguing to those who don’t know about it. Right now, the interest and energy are high, although still tempered by apprehension because of perception. Those who want to participate will do so, and those who don’t will not, no matter what.
Detroit has always been intriguing to those who don’t know about it. Right now, the interest and energy are high, although still tempered by apprehension because of perception. Those who want to participate will do so, and those who don’t will not, no matter what.
How can the city of Detroit develop and more
importantly,retain good leaders?
Good is relative, as people base their opinions on some unique criteria including name recognition, limited encounters and what “they” say, whoever “they” may be. I think we need to be better educated on the political process—knowing who can do what in certain positions, so that expectations are realistic; we then can and should hold leaders accountable. Aren’t effective? Out. Give new names and ideas an opportunity. And, stop recycling and allowing folks to run from office to office. Elected positions are a privilege, not an entitlement.
Detroit has been the heart of Michigan's economic drive,why does it have such a hostile relationship with Lansing (Michigan's state capitol)
Detroit is the biggest city in the state, but many have long viewed it as the biggest headache, for many reasons. Only recently has the state realized the potential and possibilities therein. I think a lack of familiarity and disconnect long fueled the contentious relationship, which for many reason is dissipating.
Detroit voters have been accused of voting more for a "name" like Charles Pugh and Dave Bing then someone who may be more qualified in terms of leadership. Why does this happen in your opinion?
I think this happens everywhere simply because marketing if effective for everything, including politicians. People remember names, or a pleasant encounter which is sometimes enough to secure their vote. And, there are those who run from--and for--office to office, where their name recognition is helpful to their campaign.
Going back to crime,outside of downtown,do you feel safe to travel in the city? And what was the biggest obstacle in battling blight during your tenure with Mayor Bing's staff?
I feel as safe here as I do anywhere; which means I am cautious--but not fearful-- everywhere I go--city, suburbs, etc. It's the society not the city in which we live that dictates our caution. I think the biggest challenge was the availability of resources--dollars. This administration has the benefit of state support and EM powers, both of which has brought money and the autonomy to make and execute decisions otherwise hampered by work/union rules, process, etc.
You had a critically acclaimed run as a radio host here in Detroit,is this something you are looking to do again if a opportunity presented itself?
Of all the things I have done, I LOVED being on the radio and interacting with people. I believe Detroit is capable of and entitled to a more intelligent discussion, beyond conspiracy theories and gossip. People are empowered when they are armed with information and access to resources, as well as discussion that prompts productive thought and action.
Good is relative, as people base their opinions on some unique criteria including name recognition, limited encounters and what “they” say, whoever “they” may be. I think we need to be better educated on the political process—knowing who can do what in certain positions, so that expectations are realistic; we then can and should hold leaders accountable. Aren’t effective? Out. Give new names and ideas an opportunity. And, stop recycling and allowing folks to run from office to office. Elected positions are a privilege, not an entitlement.
Detroit has been the heart of Michigan's economic drive,why does it have such a hostile relationship with Lansing (Michigan's state capitol)
Detroit is the biggest city in the state, but many have long viewed it as the biggest headache, for many reasons. Only recently has the state realized the potential and possibilities therein. I think a lack of familiarity and disconnect long fueled the contentious relationship, which for many reason is dissipating.
Detroit voters have been accused of voting more for a "name" like Charles Pugh and Dave Bing then someone who may be more qualified in terms of leadership. Why does this happen in your opinion?
I think this happens everywhere simply because marketing if effective for everything, including politicians. People remember names, or a pleasant encounter which is sometimes enough to secure their vote. And, there are those who run from--and for--office to office, where their name recognition is helpful to their campaign.
Going back to crime,outside of downtown,do you feel safe to travel in the city? And what was the biggest obstacle in battling blight during your tenure with Mayor Bing's staff?
I feel as safe here as I do anywhere; which means I am cautious--but not fearful-- everywhere I go--city, suburbs, etc. It's the society not the city in which we live that dictates our caution. I think the biggest challenge was the availability of resources--dollars. This administration has the benefit of state support and EM powers, both of which has brought money and the autonomy to make and execute decisions otherwise hampered by work/union rules, process, etc.
You had a critically acclaimed run as a radio host here in Detroit,is this something you are looking to do again if a opportunity presented itself?
Of all the things I have done, I LOVED being on the radio and interacting with people. I believe Detroit is capable of and entitled to a more intelligent discussion, beyond conspiracy theories and gossip. People are empowered when they are armed with information and access to resources, as well as discussion that prompts productive thought and action.
Walk us through a typical day of Karen Dumas, what, where
and who we would see and do?
No day is typical, and that’s what I love most. The things I do, as well as those I encounter and engage with are as varied as they come. I do a lot of writing for clients and myself (my blog, opinion pieces, social media and working on a book); I schedule and coordinate business meetings so that they don’t occupy my entire week (I am a big proponent of organization and time management), go to the gym 3 times a week, and spend any other available time with my family. I enjoy dining out, and I love driving alone so I can listen to and enjoy my music (of which I also enjoy many genres).
What has been your biggest triumph professionally,career wise?
I see everything as a staircase, each accomplishment or challenge as the next step up. I'm still climbing.
To learn more about Karen's public relations firm,Images and Ideas and Karen herself, please visit her website by clicking here.
You can also follow Karen on Twitter @KarenDumas.
Again,my deepest thanks to Karen for allowing me the honor of this interview. Please feel free to drop a comment or better yet,share this interview with your friends and family.
If you are on Twitter,you can also follow me @Jinzo_2400.
Shout outs
Amy,Rob,Camille,Ronnie - How did I do?
Susan - thank you for your input
My "contact" on the Plateau - is this newspaper worthy?
Tiffany Hendra and Willow - thank you for letting me share your story.
To my Pink Hat Mission supporters- thank you!!!
Lisa and Ashley - I very much love to do a mission with you and your readers!
Ivy - Glad you are all moved,now enjoy your vacation!
Monte Lebo- always a class act,thanks for keeping me sane.
No day is typical, and that’s what I love most. The things I do, as well as those I encounter and engage with are as varied as they come. I do a lot of writing for clients and myself (my blog, opinion pieces, social media and working on a book); I schedule and coordinate business meetings so that they don’t occupy my entire week (I am a big proponent of organization and time management), go to the gym 3 times a week, and spend any other available time with my family. I enjoy dining out, and I love driving alone so I can listen to and enjoy my music (of which I also enjoy many genres).
What has been your biggest triumph professionally,career wise?
I see everything as a staircase, each accomplishment or challenge as the next step up. I'm still climbing.
To learn more about Karen's public relations firm,Images and Ideas and Karen herself, please visit her website by clicking here.
You can also follow Karen on Twitter @KarenDumas.
Again,my deepest thanks to Karen for allowing me the honor of this interview. Please feel free to drop a comment or better yet,share this interview with your friends and family.
If you are on Twitter,you can also follow me @Jinzo_2400.
Shout outs
Amy,Rob,Camille,Ronnie - How did I do?
Susan - thank you for your input
My "contact" on the Plateau - is this newspaper worthy?
Tiffany Hendra and Willow - thank you for letting me share your story.
To my Pink Hat Mission supporters- thank you!!!
Lisa and Ashley - I very much love to do a mission with you and your readers!
Ivy - Glad you are all moved,now enjoy your vacation!
Monte Lebo- always a class act,thanks for keeping me sane.
What an amazing opportunity to interview her. Since I don't live in Detroit, I didn't know anything about Ms. Dumas but it seems as though Detroit has as many problems as everywhere else. I agree with a lot of the points she made in the article. Thanks for sharing such a great interview.
ReplyDeleteSuch a fascinating interview! I too do not live in Detroit and am not familiar with Ms. Dumas, but she is a fascinating woman. Thank you for sharing this!
ReplyDeleteAh, this was really interesting (even though I haven't heard of her)
ReplyDeleteIt was a good interview though!
I've never heard of Ms. Dumas, but she certainly has done a lot with her life. She's classy, too. There were so many... less than flattering things that could have been said about Detroit's fall from grace and the reasons behind it.
ReplyDeleteHaving interviews with others is pretty neat. It was nice to read and learn about Ms. Dumas even though I had never heard of her before. Great interview.
ReplyDeleteWhat an awesome interview. I love the ending where she said everything is a staircase and she keeps climbing.
ReplyDeleteMichelle F.
That's great that you got to interview such an important person. Congratulations!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great insight into her.. that was a really good interview.. The ego part, yea they should not have one, but they all do.
ReplyDeleteThis is a very detailed and awesome interview! I know nothing about Detroit or Karen, but I had fun reading the interview and learning about her.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great interview, Karen is beautiful What an accomplished woman with humility.
ReplyDeleteThat's incredible that you got to interview Karen! Thanks for sharing
ReplyDeletesuch a very insteresting girl giving so much positivity in life and for women as well
ReplyDeleteI've not heard of Karen Dumas, but I enjoyed reading the interview which was both informative and a good read. The insights given by Karen Dumas made me ponder on so many things.
ReplyDeleteThese interviews are very interesting. I like learning about people and this was very good to read.
ReplyDeleteNice interview sometimes i love reading interesting interview like this :-)
ReplyDeleteWhile I am native of Detroit nor I live there, I think Mrs Dumas is an inspiring woman and she knows what are the problematic areas in Detroit and how they should be targeted..
ReplyDeleteI don't know Ms. Dumas since I'm from the Philippines. She is a very flexible and empowered woman. Serving Detroit means a lot in all possible ways.
ReplyDeleteGreat Job Michael!! You asked some interesting questions and I really enjoyed reading this. I don't live IN Detroit but I am even closer than you are. (and I drive right thru the city, across 94 everyday, almost 10 years now!), I'll admit that I hadn't really paid a LOT of attention to all that had really gone on there over the years. Just the big headlines, you know? But between the "Greed" documentary on Kwame that I saw recently and our Detroit warehouse burning down in February, I've started paying more attention. The potential that Detroit has is incredible! If only we had more people like Karen Dumas, Kym Worthy and Phillip Cooley, who seem to really care about the people and their well being, and not just some hidden agenda. Now, it's Mayor Mike Duggan's turn to see how much he can turn it around. I really hope I see things turn around in MY lifetime. Thanks for sharing your interview with us! :)
ReplyDeleteThe little I know about detroit it needs someone strong to bring it back to life. Great interview.
ReplyDeleteGreat interview! Its good that Karen is there to help Detroit to rise from the ashes.
ReplyDeleteI do not know much about Detroit but this was a great interview.
ReplyDeleteI don't know a lot on the top of Mrs Dumas or Detroit, but there was a lot of good information during this interview.
ReplyDeleteWhat a thorough interview. The cit of Detroit has had some rough years, it is good to read about people who want to make a difference.
ReplyDeleteAh-mazing interview and most importantly the importance of knowing and learning about your local culture, politics, people. I applaud you for that!
ReplyDeleteI liked her "cautious but not fearful" attitude as it permeates all teh rest of the things she does. Interesting woman with a strong sense of self and others.
ReplyDeleteDetroit to me was always Gotham City. Hopefully she can be the Batman to her community.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great interview. I have never been to Detroit and therefore didn't know a lot about the city or her before reading your article.
ReplyDeleteThat's a really good interview! That's great of her for letting you interview her! =)
ReplyDelete"it is society not the city in which we live that dictates our caution". I could not have said it better myself.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations, Karen is a high-profile personality and you did a great job interviewing her! I learned a few things from the interview, thanks for sharing this.
ReplyDeleteWow! What an inspiring interview and woman. Thanks for sharing - I really enjoyed this!
ReplyDeleteInteresting piece. Mr. Mashed Up was born in Detroit, and still has family there. I've been there because of his family. I'm from NYC, and I'mma keep it real, I was scared to walk around some parts of Detroit. I hope more people like her keep working to bring the city back.
ReplyDeleteI'm surprised that ego should not be put into picture when you're in a high profile job. I thought it's important to think big for yourself and a certain attitude is required to be respected. Anyway, that may be true and effective only for some people depending on the position.
ReplyDeleteI was reading about a protest in Detroit today where thousands of resident had there water shut off. The corporations in town are also behind on their bills, but the city is desperate for these companies to stay and have not shut off water to businesses. It's a total travesty what is going on in Detroit, parts of St. Louis, and parts of Philadelphia. Only white people pretend this is not a race issue! My heart goes out to all in the city affected by racism. "White" cities do not go bankrupt. Coincidence? I think not! Great interview!
ReplyDeleteI love that she says NO EGO is needed in her position. I love that. Love down to earth people like this. Great interview
ReplyDeleteWhat a great interview! Some pretty important questions were asked!
ReplyDeleteWonderful interview! Very informative. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI can't believe you got to interview such an amazing person!
ReplyDeleteI never heard of Karen Dumas, so I am glad to have found your article. I like how she has no regrets and goes forward. What a remarkable woman. Great interview by you as well!
ReplyDeleteI am not familiar at all with Detroit or the public figures there. This was a very interesting article and I love her outlook. Well done
ReplyDeleteHer answers are very personal but still very objective and fair. It was a great interview.
ReplyDeleteGreat interview. I have a hard time trusting politicians. Amber N
ReplyDeleteI know I was thinking the same she seems sincere and transparent, politicians like her are almost extinct.
DeleteThanks for sharing this interview. Karen Dumas sounds like a fantastic woman that is committed to making Detroit a better place to live.
ReplyDeleteGreat post and I love reading your interviews. When scrolling down the page and I seen that sign which would turn anyone around it is kinds scary. I grow up in the U.P. and had always heard bad things about Detroit. It has been getting better but needs much more done to the city. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeletewow, great blog post. I've heard Detroit has had some problems.
ReplyDeleteMs. Dumas seems like a courageous and dedicated individual. Thank you for sharing such an informative interview.
ReplyDeletesuch an amazing interview! and of course very detailed too you are very lucky to have this chance!
ReplyDeletethat was quite impressive read.. you are lucky to have interviewed Ms. Dumas, even though I have never heard of her, she looks pretty radiant, and I loved all the answers as well.. :)
ReplyDeleteVery informative interview. It's interesting to see what local official's have to say when compared with national news.
ReplyDeleteThis was a thorough interview as no stone was left unturned.
ReplyDeleteHmm, haven't heard of her until now. Nice interview very thorough
ReplyDeleteWhat a great opp you had to interview her. She seems like an amazing woman. It was good to read more about her.
ReplyDelete