Departing Councilwoman Alberta Tinsley-Talabi Hosts Festive Senior Luncheon

By Karen H. Samuels/Tell Us Detroit

From her first days on Detroit City Council 16 years ago, Alberta Tinsley-Talabi has been a true servant of the people – that’s the sentiment of friends and supporters and who turned out for Tinsley-Talabi’s annual Seniors Christmas lunch held Thursday at St. Maron Church on Detroit’s east side.

The event also marked Alberta Tinsley-Talabi’s departure from council; she lost a bid for reelection by a margin close enough to surprise even her constituents. Focusing on her future, Tinsley-Talabi says she has been offered several consultant opportunities but will continue to a strong advocate for the quality of life of all Detroiters.

The ‘Denounce the 40-Ounce’ campaign symbolized an early pledge by Tinsley-Talabi to confront businesses whose products, advertising and activities failed to respect Detroit neighborhoods. The campaign was an effort to reduce alcohol consumption and later evolved in to the "Partnership for a Drug-Free Detroit. Curbing drug and alcohol abuse takes many forms and Tinsley-Talabi used her position on council to sponsor ordinances to curb the promotion of alcohol and tobacco products in public places throughout Detroit.

She is fighter for the community, was the statement expressed by many those attending the lunch including Mr. Talabi. Being the spouse of a politician is never easy, but Mr. Talabi is unique in understanding the need he said to give his wife the space, support and understanding to be on call for Detroit residents.
Artina Tinsley, former state representative and current Parole Board praised her sister’s record of community service and would counsel Tinsley-Talabi to continue her legacy of being a voice for the “least of thee”.