Ed Deeb Steps Down, But Not Out

DETROIT (WWJ) - Longtime head of the Michigan Food and Beverage Association, Ed Deeb, will be stepping down. But he will not be moving on.

In a press conference Wednesday, Deeb announced he will continue as chairman of the group along with the Michigan Business and Professional Association.

Deeb will continue as chairman, in what will be his 50th year as spokesman, troubleshooter and peacemaker during times of tension in the 60's and 70's.

"One of the biggest accomplishments was to be a problem solver," he said.

Chief Operating Officer Jennifer Kluge will fill the top spot, with big plans for small business.

"You're going to see a lot of community programs, dedicated to small business ... really dedicated to moving this whole state forward, the image of the state forward, the image of the region forward," she said.

Deeb will keep a hand in his many community projects and events including Metro Detroit Youth Day on Belle Isle July 13.

Deeb says he will continue working on Metro Detroit Youth Day, along with the Michigan Youth Appreciation Foundation. "We have a new program called the Prize Coalition to help kids get through college...right now 67% fall out after the first semester," he said.