Connecting Communities
National Counseling Awareness Month National Counseling Awareness Month
Emily Dievendorf fights for democracy while effectively representing the people of the State of Michigan 77th House District
Democracy is a powerful tool in the fight for justice and equity, but it only works effectively and ethically when it works for the people. More importantly, democracy only works when it reflects the will of the people and is utilized to am-
plify the voices, and needs, of our most underrepresented and underserved communities. When I ran for my first term as State Representative in Michigan’s 77th House District I committed to making our democratic process more collaborative and accessible.
I pledged to make our criminal justice system one of rehabilitation and not merely consequence. I promised to prioritize securing access to basic needs like housing,
Travis Sanders and Marcel Mayberry: Cutting a Path to Success - Lansing Barber College's Fresh Start
BY YANICE Y. JACKSON
Meet Travis Sanders and Marcel Mayberry, cousins, and business partners who share a passion for nurturing legacy through entrepreneurship. As co-owners of Lansing Barber College, they have dedicated themselves to promoting excellence in barbering education.
Both Mayberry and Sanders attended Lansing Barber Styling College as students. Sanders graduated from the college in 1988, while Mayberry graduated five years later in 1993. Afterward, they opened T-Styles I and T-Styles II Barbershops in the Lansing and East Lansing areas.
Travis entertained the idea of starting a school to teach the craft of barbering. Soon afterward, his cousin presented the option of buying the Lansing Barber College after learning it would be closing in 2020. Marcel and Travis acquired Lansing Barber College to preserve its legacy and continue providing opportunities for students to gain extensive experience in the barbering industry. They are committed to helping students create their destinies, just as they did three decades ago.
The duo is passionate about sharing their experiences and helping students gain job skills in this gratifying and rewarding field. They
Courtesy Photo-Emily Dievendorf State Representative Michigan 77th House District.
Courtesy Photo-(L to R) Travis Sanders and Marcel Mayberry
The Legacy of Dr. Mar tin Luther King Jr
Black History
Rakim AllahLegendary Icon of Hip Hop
When thinking about the foundation and culture of hiphop, Rakim is thought of by many hip-hop enthusiasts as one of the Greatest Rap Artists in history. Rakim is an American rapper regarded as one of the greatest and most influential MCs the world has ever seen.
Born William Michael Griffin, on January 28, 1968, in Wyandanch, Long Island, New York, to an artistically inclined family. His father, William Griffin Sr. was a soft-spoken and sensitive man, and his mother sang opera and jazz. He and his brothers also played various musical instruments.
At the age of 16, he converted to Islam, adopting the name Rakim Allah after joining the movement ‘Five-Percent Nation’. With time, he appeared
as the most vocal spokesperson for ‘Five-Percent Nation’; his faith was luminescent in his lyrics.
Rakim is also one-half of the celebrated hip-hop duo ‘Eric B. & Rakim’ whose complex lyricism greatly boosted the hip-hop genre. An expert exponent of the art, he is placed on the same pedestal as some of the greatest luminaries of rap music such as Big Daddy Kane, KRS-One, LL Cool J, Melle Mel, Chuck D, and Kool G Rap.
While much of his elevated status is due to his teaming up with Eric B., his solo career too is brilliant and a source of inspiration to many; his music sets new standards for the artists following in his footsteps. His unique style and lyrical prowess have influenced countless artists within the genre.
5 Historically Black towns you should know about
BY KRISTEN
VICTORIA FREEMAN
Many times, Black history is taught synonymous with enslavement, but there is so much more richness to the culture than this alone. Across the United States, there were Black towns, settlements and villages. Here are a few:
Harlem, New York
Of course, how could we talk about Black settlements without discussing Harlem? While some may consider this more of a city, neighborhood or borough, Harlem was a seat for the Black community far before the Harlem we know today emerged. Most know that the roaring 1920s brought an influx of African American talent- musicians, painters, poets, writers, speakers and artists- flooded the then village-like sub-sector of New York City. What most may be surprised to learn is that Harlem was actually home to many Black residents starting in 1630.
Sugarland, Maryland
Established in 1871, this town was built up by freed slaves, many
escaping the atrocities and aftermath of slavery and the civil war. They curated the town out from their centerpiece, a church, in the middle of the village. There are still people alive who were born in this town in the 1940s prior to its fall. Many people have since moved away for more employment opportunities.
Idlewild, Michigan "Black Eden"
Not exactly a town, this was considered a resort spot for vacationing African Americans enjoying lux and time away from racially-fueled issues. Tucked away in the woods of the Huron-Manistee National Forests, it was a retreat unlike any other in the United States. In essence, segregation built the town, allowing Black families to getaway safely. It was a reasonable driving distance from places like Chicago, St. Louis and Detroit — yet invisible enough to be considered a hidden gem. Any given summer, as many as 25,000 people came through the town.
Courtesy Photo-Rakim Allah also known as the God MC, Kid Wizard, the R and the 18th letter. Has had a career in hip hop that has spanned five decades.
One Hundred Years and Counting: Lansing Church of God in Christ Serving with Community in Mind
ASeries of Events Honoring a Legacy of Love and a Commitment to Building Community
Lansing Church of God in Christ (COGIC) is hosting a series of events to celebrate 100 years of existence. The theme for this awesome milestone year is "Building Community," reflecting the church's commitment to loving God and loving people. Lansing COGIC is sharing the good news and bringing the community together.
In addition to celebrating and raising awareness of the anniversary events, the church's leadership goal is to raise funds for their community-centered nonprofit. The events include a formal Dinner Gala on Saturday, September 28th, at the University Club (Michigan State University) located at 3435 Forest Road, Lansing. The public is invited to this dinner featuring Keynote Speaker Bishop Roger Jones.
On Sunday, September 29th, the
grand finale event will be a church celebration/service with a sermon preached by the Presiding COGIC Bishop John Drew Sheard. Bishop Sheard is the Presiding Bishop and Chief Apostle of the Church of God in Christ, Inc., one of the largest African American Pentecostal denominations in the United States with 12,000 churches in over 112 countries. Bishop Sheard has over 30 years of leadership in the Church of God in Christ.
Lansing COGIC has been a beacon of hope and support for the community,
offering programs such as food banks, youth programs, and mentorship. The church's nonprofit arm has partnered with local organizations to address the needs of the underserved. The church has undergone many transitions since its inception, with notable leaders like Elder Perry Robinson and Bishop John Seth Bailey contributing to its growth. Today, Bishop Samuel Duncan Jr. and Assistant Pastor Samuel "Cisco" Duncan IV continue the legacy, serving the community with love and dedication.
The 100th anniversary celebration is not just a milestone for the church but also an opportunity to raise funds for its community-centered nonprofit. Join the Lansing COGIC family as they honor their legacy and look forward to many more years of serving the greater Lansing community.
Meet Angela Mathews –Democrat Candidate for State House District 77
AVoice of Strength for Necessary Change! Ms. Mathews has been a lifelong resident of Lansing for over 35 years.
After earning a degree in Human Services from Lansing Community College and later her Bachelor of Arts Degree-Community Human Services, Siena Heights University, Ms. Mathews established her career in Lansing dedicating herself to community outreach and relations with several organizations. Throughout her community advocacy and service, she has served the Ingham County Register of Deeds' office, Lansing School District, and several non-profits, including Youth Development Corporation and March for Justice. Ms. Mathews is the Executive Director of the Connection TV Show and a past Video Instructor for Hope Central Academy. Ms. Mathews holds mem-
berships with the Lansing Juneteenth Committee serving as the Communications and Media Director, as well as, the Lansing Branch NAACP.
Faith is an integral part of Ms. Mathew’s life. She received her call as an Evangelist in 2015, preaching her first
sermon on September 11, 2016. Then, receiving her Ministers License under the previous pastor of Pilgrim Rest, Dr. Walter Gibson Jr. Today, she serves on the Leadership Council of Bishop Edward Rockett, Jr., Senior Pastor of Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, and Co-Leader of
the Women of Excellence Ministry. Currently, the Chair of Lansing Community College (LCC) Board of Trustees, Ms. Mathews has held executive leadership roles on the Board as Vice Chair and Board Secretary. She was elected twice to the LCC Board of Trustees by a wide margin and is serving a second (6-year) term. In both elections, November 2022 and 2024, Ms. Mathews earned thirty percent of the Tri-County (Ingham, Clinton, and Eaton) voters’ approval. Her term expires in December 2028. Simultaneously, Chair Mathews is President of the African American Trustee Caucus of ACCT (National Organization, Association of Community College Trustees). Scan to read full story
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Courtesy Photo-Bishop Samuel Duncan Jr, and First Lady Evangelist Dorothy L. Duncan
Courtesy Photo-Lansing Community College (LCC) Board of Trustees.
Pastor Kenny and First Lady Corrie Craig of Union Missionary Baptist Church-Embracing Change while Continuing a Legacy Of Service
BY YANICE Y. JACKSON
In 2024, Union Missionary Baptist Church (UMBC) is reaching another milestone, celebrating 132 years of rich history. After the retirement of Pastor Melvin T. Jones the Church started its search for another man of God to carry the torch and Pastor Kenny Craig and First Lady Corrie Craig are dedicated to continuing the ministry's legacy.
Originally from Ripley, Tennessee, Pastor Craig felt called to ministry at an early age. His dedication to a life of ministry was solidified after reading the Gospels in a college dorm room while attending the University of Tennessee at Martin. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from UT Martin and is also a graduate of the Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy.His passion lies in preaching
and teaching in the church and the community, as he strongly believes in giving back to the community where one lives.
In 2013, Pastor Kenny earned a master’s degree in Christian studies from the Southern Baptist Union University in Jackson, Tennessee. During the height of the pandemic, he recognized the nationwide need for spiritual leadership. In response to the changes brought about by COVID-19, particularly the shift towards virtual services, he sought to address this need. Seeing the evolving landscape of church services, Pastor Kenny and First Lady Corrie were called to serve at Union Missionary Baptist Church in Lansing, Michigan in February 2023. They began their tenure there in May of the same year.
Recognizing that church services would be different going forward, Pas-
tor Craig committed to reaching out to the community beyond the church walls. He and First Lady Corrie have implemented several innovative programs to aid in the church's evolution. They remain open to innovative ideas
in response to the changing times. Regardless of the changes, they are dedicated to helping others connect with God and build a spiritually balanced Christian lifestyle.
Pastor Craig honors the tenure of Rev Dr. Melvin Jones by encouraging Christians to identify and use their spiritual gifts and to be led by the Holy Spirit in all aspects of life. Union Missionary Baptist Church, established near the Capital Loop in the heart of downtown Lansing, has a history rooted in faith. It is the first and oldest African American Baptist Church in the city. The Sunday morning worship service at UMBC takes place at 11:00 a.m., either in-person or broadcast live via Facebook and YouTube. For further information on events and service times or to contact Pastor Kenny, please visit https://umbclansing.org.
Courtesy Photo-(L to R) First Lady Corrie Craig and Pastor Kenny Craig.
Organizers Announce WOW Fest 2024
EAST CHICAGO , IND– The Annual WOW Fest is scheduled for Sunday. July 28, 2024, at the Jeorse Park Beach located at 3100 Aldis St. East Chicago, Indiana from 2:00pm to 8:00pm.
This event is a family affair with free food, a wide array of vendors, a wealth of information from financial institutions, retail businesses, social service agencies, health serving agencies and a concert with various local
and national artists. In addition, free book bags filled with school supplies will be distributed; free haircuts, free hair braiding and a game truck.
W.O.W. FEST has greatly increased in attendance and family participation since its beginning in 2008.
This year’s event will feature special guests Vincent Bohanan, Cinque Cullar, DJ KCeasar, Johari McGee, New Zion Temple Choir and the Michigan City Steppers.
Lansing Roller Derby announces boot camp for new skaters
of all backgrounds and abilities are welcome
LANSING, Mich. – A 4 month long basic skills boot camp training program is being offered to people interested in learning the sport of roller derby. The Lansing Roller Derby (LRD) league is holding in-person orientation and gear fitting on July 21st from 6-9 pm at Court One Training Center, 7868 Old M-78 in East Lansing. A make-up date for orientation and gear fitting will be later in the week on July 23rd from 7-10 pm at Court One as well. The fee to participate is $120 due by the first day of boot camp. Loaner equipment is available, but please bring a mouth guard and a water bottle.
strategy, awareness of the track, and team cohesiveness is key. And while the sport was at one time perceived as being showy and staged, it has since evolved into a legitimate sport. LRD prides itself on providing participants the best possible opportunity to flourish in a safe and positive environment; all training is run and supervised by the league’s most experienced coaching staff and veteran players who also serve as mentors to new recruits.
While most sports require a certain physique, roller derby is uniquely inclusive of all shapes, sizes and abilities. In fact, approximately 75% of past boot campers entered
the program with little or no skating ability. With enough coaching, practice and group support – which LRD has plenty of – new skaters will quickly advance their skills and become safe and ready for game play.
Roller derby is a unique sport in that both offense and defense are played at the same time. Five-member teams compete during two-minute sessions called “jams” in which points are earned by passing opposing players, so
“What I love most about our team is the confidence and empowerment it provides,” said Ali “Jahrmageddon” Jahr, LRD President and co-coach. “There are not many opportunities for adult women to compete in athletic activity and become part of something bigger than themselves, and roller derby provides that outlet.”
Boot camp consists of introductory, intermediate and advanced skill level training that focus on proper stance, stopping and turning, speed control, agility, endurance, pack work, and more. Proper mastery of technique is reinforced at twice-weekly practices on Sundays and Thursdays. After boot camp, passing a basic skills test is required before participating in scrimmage and competitive play in home team and travel season bouts. We currently have 3 levels of game play in LRD so everyone gets a chance to play at home and away. Opportunities are also available for all people ages 18 or older, to get involved with the league as a non-skating official, referee or volunteer.
For more information on Lansing Roller Derby, visit https://lansingrollerderby.com Folks
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Karmanos Cancer Institute Provides Radiation Therapy for Cancer Patients That Helps Spare Hearts
Radiation therapy is a highly effective treatment for cancers including in the breast, abdomen, and lungs, but treatment in these areas also exposes the nearby heart to radiation. Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Greater Lansing is using innovative techniques that help prevent damage to the heart.
Deep Inspiration Breath
Hold (DIBH)
“DIBH consists of taking a deep breath and holding it for 15-20 seconds through -
out the treatment,” said Lisa Mulder, radiation therapist at Karmanos Cancer Institute.
“Through this method, it lifts the chest up and pulls the heart away, protecting it further from the radiation.”
This state-of-the-art technique provides the utmost accuracy. Using an infrared camera, it monitors the patient’s breathing and the expansion of the chest during DIBH. While the patient is lying on their back for treatment, the radiation therapists instruct the patient to take
in a deep breath and hold. If the breath hold is at the appropriate level, treatment is initiated. While the treatment is underway, if at any time the patient’s breath hold falls outside the set level the machine will automatically turn off. For example, if the patient coughs, or must start breathing, the radiation will instantly stop.
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29th Annual Black Women’s Expo to Feature Actress, Singer, Author Jenifer Lewis
Half-priced tickets now on sale at Chicagoland Walgreens locations
CHICAGO – Black Women’s Expo founder and executive producer Merry Green has announced that renowned actress, singer and Author Jenifer Lewis will appear at the 29th Annual Black Women’s Expo (BWe NEXT). The show takes place August 2 – 4, 2024 at McCormick Place, 2301 S. Martin Luther (North Building, Hall C-1), with Lewis gracing the main stage Saturday, August 3rd at 3:00 p.m.
Dubbed a National Treasure and a force to be reckoned with, award-winning actress Jenifer Lewis starred on ABC’s Black-ish, as the hilarious grandmother Ruby Johnson. Ms. Lewis has appeared in over 400 episodic television shows, 68 movies, 40 animations, and 4 Broadway shows, such as The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Friends, A Different World, Twenties, Castaway, What’s Love Got to Do with It, Think Like a Man, Madea’s Family Reunion, Strong Medicine, The Princess and the
How
WFrog, Mickey Mouse Funhouse, Rugrats, Cars 1,2 and 3, American Dad, and Hairspray. She has performed in more than 200 concerts worldwide including, sold out audiences at Lincoln Center and an electrifying standing ovation at Carnegie Hall.
“I am so excited to have Ms. Lewis bring her incredible story to the Black Women’s Expo,” said Green. “Her accomplishments are endless, and she connects with a diverse, cross-section of women, which is ideal for our platform.”
Festivities surrounding BWe NEXT will kick off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony taking place Friday, August 2nd at 9:30 a.m. at the entrance of the Expo and will feature brief remarks by several city officials, dignitaries and sponsors. A Women’s Leadership Conference and Career Fair are among the opening day attractions.
Tickets to BWe NEXT are now available for HALF-PRICE at all Chicagoland Walgreens stores.
“I simply wanted to do something to celebrate and uplift Black women and their entrepreneurial endeavors,” recalls Green. “Never did I imagine that we would be here 29 years later and that the Black Women’s Expo would become an event woven into the fabric of Black culture.”
Themed “72 Hours in Chicago” BWe NEXT organizers are partnering with various businesses, organizations
and tourism attractions to create an unforgettable experience for those choosing to travel to Chicago the weekend of August 2-4, 2024.
BWe NEXT will include activations varying in size that address the needs of Black women and their families through topical seminars and general sessions presented by knowledgeable subject matter experts.
The show floor will feature more than 400 exhibitors and themed resource pavilions highlighting areas of interest that Black women want to know more about including Health & Wellness, Food & Nutrition, Finance & Wealth Building and Entrepreneurship among others.
Booth space and sponsorship opportunities are still available.
To secure a booth, become a sponsor and for regular updates on seminars, performances and other event details, visit www.BWeNEXT.com.
To Make Your Church More Welcoming to Guests
hen you run a church, there are so many different challenges emerging every day that you must handle. For example, making your church welcoming to guests is one of your top priorities, but it’s not always the easiest thing to do. Creating a more welcoming atmosphere is a tricky juggling act, but it’s one of the most important things you can do for your church.
Greet Everyone with Open Arms
To create a warm and inclusive environment within your church, you must warmly embrace everyone, regardless of their background or origin. Take the time to genuinely engage with everyone, showing sincere interest in their lives and making them feel truly valued and seen. This simple yet powerful gesture can have a profound impact, mak-
ing someone feel at ease and encouraging them to return for future services. By embodying this practice of unconditional acceptance, your church can become a sanctuary where everyone feels embraced and cherished.
Optimize Acoustics welcoming to guests
Creating a welcoming atmosphere in a church encompasses various factors, and one of them is optimizing the acoustics. Prioritize the clarity and comfort of everyone’s hearing during worship or sermons. To achieve this, consider investing in state-of-the-art sound systems and high-quality microphones. This investment makes optimizing your house of worship acoustics easy, and it’s well worth it. When you have proper acoustics, every individual can actively participate and engage in your service.
Create a Comfortable Seating Arrangement
Creating a comfortable seating arrangement is important to accommodate the diverse needs of individuals. You need to consider various factors, such as families with small children or individuals with disabilities, to ensure inclusivity. By providing ample space for people to move around, you can enhance accessibility and prevent overcrowding of seats.
Follow Up With Guests
The act of following up with your guests after their visit is essential. It goes a long way in making them feel valued, appreciated, and, most importantly, welcomed. You can accomplish this through a variety of means, such as a thoughtful phone call, a heartfelt email, or even a personalized handwritten note. By taking the time to connect with your guests after their visit, you create an opportunity to address any lingering questions or concerns. This personal touch allows you to extend a warm invitation for them to return. With the right care, effort, and planning, you can make your church even more welcoming to guests, ensuring that guests feel like you’re properly embracing and including them. Remember, it’s the small gestures that can make a significant impact on someone’s experience at your church.
Courtesy Photo-Actress, Singer, Author Jenifer Lewis
Gun Safety Group Aims To Give 1,750 Detroit-Area Women FREE Shooting Lessons On July 27th And July 28th
Detroit, MI, July 7, 2024 - Legally Armed In Detroit, a gun safety advocacy group, has announced that it will provide a free firearm shooting lesson at a southeast Michigan target range for 1,750 women interested in learning more about firearms and personal protection.
The ladies' FREE shooting event will be held on Saturday, July 27, and Sunday, July 28, 2024, at Recoil Firearms (22509 Ecorse Road in Taylor, Michigan).
FREE registration is required for participation. Registration is open now for free. Interested ladies should visit: https://www.facebook.com/share/ tD8uTrszX3NxCXoy/
There will be no charge for the Firearm Instructor's safety briefing, the usage of a firearm, ammunition, and range time. Participation is 100 percent free for all attendees. No prior firearms training or experience is required of the women who desire to take advantage of the lesson. Further, experienced women merely desiring to improve their marksmanship skills are also welcome to attend.
This year's event will be the thirteenth consecutive year it has been conducted. In the first year only 50 women were trained. However, last year the
event grew sufficiently to teach just over 1,400 how to safely operate a pistol.
This year's goal is 1,750 trained women over the two-day event at only one gun range in Taylor, Michigan: Recoil Firearms. It is only with the cooperation of Ector's fellow Firearm Instructor colleagues and supporters across social media that this event could even be attempted and safely conducted. The total number of women trained by this 12 year program exceeded 10,300.
The free shooting lesson offer was the brainchild of Rick Ector, an NRA Approved Firearms Trainer, after seeing a local television newscast of a young woman's body being discovered on an
east-side Detroit street thirteen years ago. Ector believes that there are many women in the state of Michigan who are curious about firearms and their role in self-defense but are reluctant to investigate due to fears. He said, "If giving
women a free lesson by a credentialed professional translates into women just trying it, it'll be a productive use of my time."
Rick Ector is a National Rifle Association credentialed Firearms Trainer, who provides Michigan CCW/ CPL Class training in metro-Detroit for students at his firearms school at https://www.legallyarmedindetroit. com/2024/07/2024-laid-free-womensmetro-detroit.html
Ector is a recognized expert in Firearm Safety and Personal Protection and has been featured extensively in the national and local media: Fox and Friends, Tucker Carlson Tonight, America's 1st Freedom (NRA), Associated Press, National Public Radio, MSNBC, The Guardian, and Townhall Magazine. Further, Ector was recently re-elected to a second term on the National Rifle Association's Board of Directors. For more info about the free shooting lesson and Detroit Michigan CCW Classes, please contact:
RICK ECTOR
Web: https://www.legallyarmedindetroit.com
Email: detroitccw@gmail.com
Phone: 313.733.7404
Embracing a Regret-Free Life: Moving Beyond the Past
BY J. DOMONICK DIXIE
Regret is a powerful emotion that can haunt our thoughts, hinder our progress, and rob us of the present moment. However, it is within our power to break free from the grip of regret and cultivate a life filled with joy, growth, and fulfillment.
To avoid regret, it is essential to embrace a mindset of acceptance and forgiveness. Understand that mistakes are an inevitable part of the human experience, and dwelling on past missteps only keeps us trapped in a cycle of negativity. Instead, choose to learn from your past choices and use them as step-
ping stones for personal growth. Reflect on the lessons learned and make a conscious effort to apply those insights to present and future decisions. Another crucial step in moving beyond regret is practicing self-compassion. Understand that you are not de-
fined by your past actions or decisions. Treat yourself with kindness, acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes. Replace self-blame and self-criticism with self-love and understanding. Embrace the belief that you deserve happiness and a life free from regret.
Moreover, living in the present moment is key to overcoming regret. Dwelling on the past or worrying about the future robs us of the beauty and opportunities that exist in the here and now. Focus on what you can control today and take small steps towards the future you desire. Embrace gratitude for the lessons learned and the person you are becoming.
Lastly, surround yourself with a sup-
portive network of family, friends, or mentors who uplift and encourage you. Share your experiences and fears with trusted individuals who can offer guidance and perspective. Seek their wisdom and learn from their own journeys, realizing that you are not alone in facing regret. In the end, living a regret-free life requires embracing self-forgiveness, practicing self-compassion, living in the present, and cultivating a supportive network. Remember, it is never too late to make peace with your past and create a future filled with joy, growth, and endless possibilities. Seize the opportunity today and embark on a transformative journey towards a regret-free life.
Achieving Financial Wellness: Top Three Ways to Reduce Financial Stress
BY: BETSY YOUNG MSUFCU Vice President of Marketing & Communications
July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, highlighting the unique challenges faced by minority communities and promoting their well-being. At MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU), we understand the link between financial wellness and mental health. Financial stress can lead to anxiety, but strong financial habits can provide security and peace of mind.
Here are three steps to reduce financial stress and boost mental well-being:
Master the Art of Budgeting:
List all your income and expenses, dividing them into essentials (rent, groceries) and non-essentials (entertainment).
Create a budget to control spending, prioritize important expenses, and
achieve savings goals. Think of it as your roadmap to financial freedom.
Build Your Safety Net:
Save three to six months’ worth of living expenses to prepare for unexpected events, like medical bills or car repairs.
Start small by setting aside a portion of your income each month and watch your emergency fund grow. A solid safety net brings confidence and reduces anxiety.
Take Charge of Your Debt:
Focus on paying off debts with the
highest interest rates first while maintaining minimum payments on others. Consider debt consolidation or seek professional advice for effective strategies. Reducing debt will lift a weight off your shoulders, freeing resources for savings and investments.
Discover The Culture of Finances: Your Path to Financial Success
At MSUFCU, we believe financial stability builds stronger communities. Our new program, The Culture of Finances, supports financial growth through tailored education courses, addressing systemic disparities, and helping participants overcome financial fears.
Join The Culture of Finances program to receive tools for financial success, learn about credit and debt management, and achieve financial confidence. For more information on free financial education and resources, visit msufcu.org/thecultureoffinances. We’re here to help.
124th National Black Business Conference Returns
to Atlanta
“We Are Together”
Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the World Conference of Mayors
TUSKEGEE , AL, Monday, April 15, 2024 –The National Alliance for Black Business (2022), co-founded by The National Business League ® (1900), National Black Chamber of Commerce ® (1993), and The World Conference of Mayors ® (1984), is thrilled to cohost the NBL’s 124th National Black Business Conference ®. Set to take place from August 21-24, 2024, at the Hilton Atlanta in downtown Atlanta, GA, this highly anticipated event coincides with Atlanta Black Business Weekend ™, promising an exhilarating gathering of the nation’s foremost Black business leaders and community luminaries.
Building upon the success of last year's conference, which commemorated the 30th Anniversary of the National Black Chamber of Commerce founded in 1993 and drew over 1,900 attendees, this year's event holds special significance as it celebrates the 40th Anniversary of the World Conference of Mayors. Established in 1984, The World Conference of Mayors serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Black Mayoral leadership and economic empower-
ment within Black communities worldwide. This year marks a significant milestone, as it pays homage to 50 years since the Southern Conference of Black Mayors
held its inaugural National Conference at the Hilton Atlanta Hotel. Notably, Daniel "Chappy" James, the first four-star Black general in the Air Force and a Tuskegee airman, served as keynote speaker, setting the stage for the remarkable journey of Black elected leadership in the years to come.
Mayor Johnny Ford, who also served as co-founder to the preceding Black Mayors organizations before founding The World Conference of Mayors, expressed his excitement for this year's event, stating, “As we celebrate the historic 40th Anniversary of The World Conference of Mayors, we acknowledge the pivotal role Black mayors play in the economic development of cities, towns, and historic settlements. These legacies trace their roots back to the visionary leadership of Booker T. Washington and pave the way for the future of Black Mayors all over the world.”
The conference agenda will spotlight the profound impact of Black mayors in fostering...
Diversity Drives: How to Infuse DEI into Your Marketing
In the modern marketplace, integrating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) into marketing strategies is beneficial and necessary for small businesses. Adopting DEI practices improves brand perception, deepens customer loyalty, and expands reach. A thoughtful, genuine approach to DEI in marketing can transform how your business connects with diverse audiences, ensuring long-term success and relevance. The Chronicle News shares more:
Charting DEI Objectives for Marketing Success
Begin by setting precise DEI goals to define what diversity means for your organization and the steps you'll take to achieve it. Focus on aspects like ensuring diverse advertise-
EMILY DIEVENDORF
ment representation, fostering inclusivity in your messaging, and providing equitable opportunities across all customer segments.
Establishing these goals directs your efforts and gives you concrete metrics to evaluate your progress. This clarity is crucial in shaping a marketing strategy that reflects your commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
food, a fair wage, clean water, and quality education. A lifelong advocate for civil rights and social justice, I focused all policy priorities on the equity and fairness all Michigan residents deserve. I didn’t run to save anybody or to speak for our community, rather I ran because together we build our community back up, and because every part of our community has a right, and a route, to speak for themselves.
Fighting for a more collaborative and representative democracy is exactly what we have done. We have held our ground to make housing a core is-
TRAVIS SANDERS
continue the legacy of providing great service and opportunities for extensive experience in the barbering industry. They recently purchased a new building at 4414 S Pennsylvania, offering 8,000 square feet of space across two floors. The additional space (soon to open) will allow for newer equipment, upgrades,
Pinpointing Your Audience: DEI-Driven Market Analysis
Identifying your target market involves examining potential customers' characteristics, such as age, gender, interests, and socioeconomic factors. By understanding these traits, you can effectively tailor your marketing strategies to address their needs. Choose the best channels, like social media or email, to con-
sue that is addressed not only through development but also through investments in strengthening tenants’ rights, building new affordable and accessible housing, and by setting a baseline for the humane treatment of our homeless neighbors. We eliminated harmful debt from court fines and fees for justice-impacted youth. We have worked to close a loophole in the law that has been used for hundreds of years to steal homes and farms from our low-income property owners, particularly Black and Brown property owners. And we have set unprecedented standards for clean energy.
and rental opportunities. Marcel and Travis are dedicated to helping students become skilled professional barbers and better human beings. Through their journey, they have learned that with determination and a positive mindset, anything is possible. Look no further than Barber Styling College of Lansing
vey how your business stands out and meets its expectations. Highlighting your unique selling points and values persuades them why they should choose your offerings over others.
Revolutionizing Content with AI Imagery
Leveraging AI-generated images can revolutionize your marketing by effortlessly creating engaging visual content. Business owners can utilize AI art generators to quickly produce tailored images, bypassing the need for extensive graphic design skills. Simply input a prompt into the generator and adjust the style, colors, and lighting to meet your specific requirements. Give this a view to discover how AI technology can elevate your marketing visuals while aligning with your diver-
Over the last year and a half in office, we, you and I, have secured worker protections, access to reproductive health, free school breakfasts and lunches, universal pre-K, funding for gun violence prevention programs, eliminated the pension tax, and increased the working families tax credit. And that is the shortlist.
We aren’t done. I've learned from our collaborative coffee hours, community events, and meetings that our community wants and needs more. I too am thrilled with the unprecedented investment in our community that has already been achieved.
sity and inclusivity goals.
Scrutinizing Your Strategy
An internal DEI audit is essential to gauge the inclusivity and diversity of your current marketing strategies and materials. Assess the diversity within your marketing team and scrutinize the range of perspectives that influence your campaign strategies. This audit will reveal existing biases or gaps, providing a roadmap for developing more comprehensive, inclusive marketing efforts. Such introspection ensures your marketing materials resonate authentically with a diverse audience.
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But you elected a fighter that is rooted in acts of love. And I am here to champion you. We are champions for the US.
Thank you for the immeasurable support this community has offered me as I held the line at the Capitol to ensure that with each year we struggle less and thrive more. Let’s keep going. A better and stronger democracy needs us.
Please consider voting for me and the team we have been with throughout my first term. Vote Dievendorf for State Representative in Michigan’s 77th House District.
to learn from the best in the industry.
About Lansing Barber College:
Established in 1982, Lansing Barber College has been a premier institution for barbering excellence. The program is designed to prepare students for success, from passing the state licensing
exam to building a thriving career. The college offers education and training in shear cuts, clipper cuts, hair color, and razor shaving, preparing students to pass their state licensing exams. To find out more about Lansing Barber Styling College, call (517) 482-8083 or visit https://www.lansingbarbercollege.org.
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