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T he Jewish Federation's NEXTGen Detroit's 12th Annual Latke Vodka took place Nov. 26 in Midtown Detroit. More than 1,000 young adults came out for a night of live music, dancing, bowling, karaoke and a late- night food truck rally. The event was held at three iconic Detroit venues: the Majestic Theatre, the Majestic Cafe and the Garden Bowl — each offering something unique for party goers to enjoy. Just prior to the event was a special edition to Latke Vodka this year, Jobs in the D, a re-imagined job fair put on in partnership by NEXTGen Detroit and Crain's Detroit. Geared for young "expats" but open to everyone, Jobs in the D let young professionals connect with 25 of Detroit's most desirable employers. "We are hearing amazing feedback from guests that this was the best Latke Vodka to date," said Brittany Karson of NEXTGen Detroit. "We owe a huge thank you to everyone who attended and also to all our sponsors and our presenting sponsor, Detroit Popcorn Company." * Sarah Rappaport of the band Collision 6 sings to the gathered. metro » a r o u n d t o w n Kina Shaw of Southfield, Faye Weiner of Bloomfield Hills, Henna Surfrin of Oak Park, Kayla Elberg of Montreal, Deborah Shaw of Southfield, and Yousef Sufrin and Ari Brown, both of Oak Park 24 December 29 • 2016 Latke Vodka 12 Annual party adds something new this year. Becky Hurvitz | Special to the Jewish News PHOTOS BY JERRY ZOLYNSKY Marla White of Southfield, Joanne Alvin of Royal Oak and Jillian Nathan of Birmingham at the Majestic Theater Evan and Sarah Goldberg from Chicago wait for their turn to bowl. Jen Feinberg, Amy Gross and Mike Kaplan, all of Farmington Hills O n Dec. 8, Kathleen Straus of Detroit was honored for her 24 years of service on the State Board of Education with a retirement party hosted by Wayne State University at its Tierney Alumni House. Straus was first elected to the board in 1992 and served three eight-year terms, including six two-year terms as president. "Kathie is passionate about educa- tion," Patrick Lindsey, WSU vice presi- dent for government and community affairs, said at the event. "Throughout her tenure on the State Board of Education, she has been a powerful voice for Michigan children and fami- lies. Her commitment to justice, inclu- sion and an excellent education for all students has never wavered. "Prior to her election, she fought for positive change in our city as an administrator, activist and community leader, working effectively with a coali- tion of diverse groups from across the city," he added. A needs-based scholarship has been established in her name at WSU. To donate, go to https://cardinal.wayne. edu/wsugiving/give.cfm or call (888) 978-4483. (Look for a JN profile story on Straus early next year.) * Judy and Bernard Cantor with Sid Simon Longtime Service After 24 years, Straus retires from State Board of Education. Kathleen Straus addresses the crowd with her daughter, Barbara Straus, by her side. Mary Ellen and Harold Gurewitz Sen. Carl and Barbara Levin Barbara Mayer, Ellie Slovitz, Sally Schottenfels and Jeannie Weiner Photos by Gina Horwitz