The Chronicle News Electronic Publication No 54 June 1st – June 15th, 2024

Connecting Communities

JUNETEENTH

The Chronicle News Expands Reach While Celebrating 38 Years of Excellence

LANSING , MI - The Chronicle News, a trusted source of news and information for 38 years, is proud to announce its expansion into new markets across Michigan. Starting August 2024, our distribution will increase to reach a wider audience in the following areas: - Detroit - Ypsilanti - Ann Arbor - Grand Rapids - FlintSaginaw - Kalamazoo - Battle Creek - Jackson. This expansion marks a significant milestone

in our history, as we continue to commit to delivering high-quality news and content to our readers. Our increase in circulation and expansion in distribution is being verified by the Circulation Verification Council (http://www.cvcaudit.com)

Our dedication to journalism and community engagement has allowed us to thrive for nearly four decades, and we're excited to bring our unique perspective

to new regions. Increased Distribution and Coverage With our expanded reach, we'll be able to get more news, stories, and updates to a broader audience. Our team is committed to providing in-depth coverage of local issues, events, and stories that matter most to our readers.

Celebrating 38 Years of Excel-

A message from the Honorable Judge Wanda M. Stokes about Juneteenth 2024

BY JUDGE WANDA STOKES 30th District Circuit Court

As the nation prepares to commemorate Juneteenth on June 19, 2024, it’s an appropriate time to reflect on our freedoms. Juneteenth is also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, marking the momentous occasion when enslaved African Americans in Texas ultimately learned of their freedom from slavery in 1865; more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed.

Juneteenth represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for justice, equality, and freedom for all Americans. As a Circuit Court Judge, I am

keenly aware of the importance of upholding the principles of equality and fairness in the judicial system and ensuring that the rights of all individuals are protected under the law.

As we celebrate Juneteenth 2024, let it serve as a reminder of the progress that has been made in the fight for equality and justice, while also acknowledging the work that still lies ahead. Juneteenth is a time for reflection, remembrance, and celebration of the resilience and strength of the African American community in the face of centuries of oppression and discrimination.

As the nation continues to grapple with issues of

Photo Credit: Tay Ford-Heart of the City Photography. Michigan State representative Emily Divendorf Awards Chronicle News Publisher Yanice Y. Jackson with Proclamation during the Chronicle News 37th Anniversary Celebration.

The Chronicle News

Black History Juneteenth 2024: Celebrating Freedom and Unity

Embracing Our Past, Shaping Our Future

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, marks the emancipation of the last enslaved people in the United States. This historic day, observed since 1865 and now recognized as a federal holiday, symbolizes hope, resilience, and progress. As we gather to commemorate Juneteenth, let’s reflect on our shared history and envision a more just and inclusive future.

The Legacy of Dr. Mar tin Luther King Jr

Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom and the Power of Education to Tear Down Barriers

BY DR. K.L. ALLEN Regional Director, Western Governors University

Several years ago, I had the opportunity to visit Ghana on the west coast of Africa, a country whose history is forever linked to the United States through, among other reasons, the Cape Coast Castle.

Originally built by slave traders in the mid-1600s, the Castle held captured Africans until their forced relocation to the Americas. As an African American, many intense

feelings came over me touring the Castle, including motivation, sadness, and a desire to persevere. An especially profound feeling was a connection to the legacy of the millions of enslaved Africans who caught the last glances of their homeland as they passed through the Castle’s “Door of No Return” and onto slavers’ ships. My connection to this legacy has motivated me as a person and an educator and is one reason why Juneteenth has a profound meaning for me.

Recently recognized as a federal holiday, Juneteenth honors the

day in 1865 that the news of slavery’s abolishment made it to the last group of enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, although pockets of slavery lingered across the South after this date. As an educator from Princeville, North Carolina—the oldest town incorporated by Blacks in the United States—I grew up understanding Juneteenth as a celebration of freedom,...

Celebrate Juneteenth 2024 with exciting events!

 Battle Creek

African Masquerade Dancers: A Tribute to Juneteenth at Willard Library | June 10 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. | Event details

Juneteenth at Claude Evans Park | June 14 & 15 | Event details

 Benton Harbor

Juneteenth Celebration June 15 from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. $25-$30 tickets

 Detroit

Juneteenth Freedom Fest at Eastern Market, Detroit June 16, 2024. Activities: Live entertainment, kids’ activities, black business vendors, and more! Get tickets

 Grand Rapids

Juneteenth pop-up event at Rosa Parks Circle | June 15 from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. | Event details

Grand Rapids Junior Juneteenth 2024 Dickinson Park Dundunba | June 19 from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. | Event details

Southtown Juneteenth Celebration | June 19 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. | Event details

Justice 4 All Juneteenth Jam at Calder Plaza | June 19 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Event details

Celebrating Juneteenth at Chicago

Beef Joint | June 19 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. | Event details

“Block Party” screening, festivities at Wealthy Theatre | June 19 at 5 p.m., screening starts at 7 p.m. | Event details

Juneteenth Commemoration at St.

Philip’s Episcopal Church | June 23 at 9 a.m. | Event details

 Holland

Council of Baptist Pastors of Detroit and Vicinity Supports Elissa Slotkin for U.S. Senate

This is the latest sign of Slotkin’s growing support from community and faith leaders across Detroit

DETROIT, Mich. – Today, the Council of Baptist Pastors of Detroit and Vicinity, which has proudly served Detroit's faith community for over 50 years, announced its statement of support for Elissa Slotkin for U.S. Senate. The support of the Council, which represents more than 100 African-American churches throughout the Detroit area, is the latest sign of growing momentum for Slotkin within Michigan’s faith community.

The Council has served as the voice of countless church attendees in Detroit. They continue to empower congregations through a focus on leadership, support, development, and spiritual education.

"Detroit demands effective representation in Washington, and having seen Elissa Slotkin’s dedication to the city over the last year, we know she is the right leader we need in this hour," said Pastor Richard White III, President of Council of Baptist Pastors of Detroit & Vicinity. “Now more than ever, we need leadership not only qualified, but dedicated to creating opportunities for everyone, stabilizing

our neighborhoods, and ensuring safer communities for our youth. As a Member of Congress, Elissa has demonstrated her commitment to prioritizing her constituents and her vision for progress includes meaningful engagement with our faith-based communities. We believe her Opportunity Agenda, developed after countless meetings with neighborhood leaders, community activists, minority entrepreneurs, educational administrators, and faith leaders, demonstrates her commitment to faithfully advocating and representing all segments of the district and state she represents. With her determination and skill, Elissa Slotkin will help move our city and state forward. She’s the right choice for Detroiters and all of Michigan.” “ I am so grateful for this support from the Council of Baptist Pastors,” said Slotkin. “When I launched my campaign, the first place I...

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Courtesy Photo-Elissa Slotkin Candidate for U.S. Senate

Enrollment and Transfer Opportunities at LCC

Community colleges provide opportunities. Often, the combination of affordability, local accessibility, and personalized support means the difference between a lifetime of success and struggle for those from underserved backgrounds and/or marginalized communities.

According to statistics gathered by the American Association for Community Colleges, more than 40% of all undergraduates in the U.S. enroll at community colleges. More than 55% of Native American undergrads, 52% of Hispanic undergrads, and 43% of Black undergrads enroll at community colleges. Thirty-six percent of those who attend community colleges are the first in their families to attend college.

Lansing Community College (LCC) was founded to address the needs of local industries. These days, students come to LCC to find fulfilling careers and/or take care of transferrable credits for a fraction of a university’s price before achieving four-year credentials or beyond.

Many LCC students utilize the Michigan Reconnect educational program to make college affordable. Michigan Reconnect provides tuition so adults aged 21 and older can enroll in Michigan community college degree and professional training programs.

The opportunity Michigan Reconnect affords people is real. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the median annual income for workers with an associate degree to be more than $50,000, while the median income for

those with only high school-level credentials is less than $37,000 annually.

Once graduated, many students will transfer to four-year colleges and universities to pursue a bachelor’s degree or higher. At LCC, that process is a much clearer path through the LCC’s Envision Green partnership with Michigan State University (MSU).

Envision Green provides a coordinated academic pathway from LCC to MSU. As part of the program, MSU academic advisors work with students

on LCC’s campus and guide class selection and the transfer process. In addition, MSU has made transferring credits from LCC to its academic programs more seamless and provides individual guidance to LCC students who want to complete their studies at MSU. Also, MSU actively recruits LCC students. These measures make transferring from LCC to MSU a streamlined process.

In addition to the opportunities provided through Michigan Reconnect and Envision Green, LCC students enjoy 24/7 tutoring opportunities, dedicated academic success coaches, opportunities for emergency aid, scholarships, IT help and the ability to rent necessary equipment (like laptops), counselors and helpful support staff.

To learn more about how you or a student in your life can enroll at LCC with Michigan Reconnect, visit lcc.edu/ reconnect. For information about the Envision Green program, visit lcc.edu/ envisiongreen. Those interested in general LCC programs should visit lcc.edu/ youbelong

"15 Years of Healthy Food: Fair Food Network's Double Up Bucks"

Double Up Food Bucks Awareness Week’s statewide celebration to be held June 10–16, with events in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Flint

DETROIT—(June 5, 2024)— Fair Food Network is launching its inaugural Double Up Food Bucks Awareness Week, June 10–16, to celebrate its 15th year running the Double Up Food Bucks program in Michigan. Double Up provides Michigan households using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits (SNAP, formerly known as food stamps) a dollar-for-dollar match — up to $20 a day — on their purchases of fresh fruits and vegetables at more than 230 participating grocery stores and farmers markets across the state.

The awareness week will elevate the importance of Michigan-grown fruits and vegetables as a key component of the program. The Double Up program’s unique emphasis on helping to connect communities with locally grown produce helps Michigan families eat healthier, local retailers sell more Michigan-grown fruits and vegetables, and farmers sell more of the food they grow.“Every year, 1 million Michiganders use SNAP to help put food on the table. While these dollars are vital for closing the food insecurity

gap, families using SNAP still struggle to afford the fresh fruits and vegetables they need to stay healthy,” said Fair Food Network CEO Kate Krauss. “Our Double Up program matches SNAP dollars spent on fruits and vegetables so that people with low incomes can literally double the amount of nutritious food they buy.

”Since 2009, 45 million pounds of healthy food have been purchased by Michigan families at more than 230 Double Up locations in Michigan, supporting an estimated 800 local farmers and representing a significant boost to local economies: One dollar spent at a farmers market can generate $1.70 for a community’s economy, while every dollar spent at a local grocery store can generate $1.40. (View a list

of participating Michigan locations.)

Sharon Ostrowski, owner of SharKar Farm in St. Clair County, said her SNAP customers are thrilled to get extra fresh produce with Double Up Food Bucks.“In the spring, [shoppers] use Double Up to plant their own gardens with vegetable starts, herbs, and berry bushes,” she said. “I believe it is very important to support our Michigan farmers, and Double Up Food Bucks definitely helps. Especially in today’s economy when everybody has to pinch pennies, it’s great that they’re getting the freshest produce for their money.”

As part of the Double Up Food Bucks Awareness Week celebration, Fair Food Network will be holding special events at the Fulton Street Market in Grand Rapids on June 14 and the

Flint Farmers Market in Flint, and the Eastern Market in Detroit on June 15. The events will feature fun activities and a raffle of a Detroit Lions jersey signed by Aidan Hutchinson. See additional details.

Double Up Food Bucks was first launched in Detroit in 2009 by Fair Food Network. Since then, the program has become a national model for nutrition incentives and has been adopted by partners in 29 other states to improve healthy food access and boost local economies in their communities. In addition to running the Double Up Food Bucks program in Michigan, Fair Food Network provides national technical assistance on behalf of the Nutrition Incentive Hub.

Led by the Center for Nutrition and Health Impact in partnership with Fair Food Network and the University of California, San Francisco, the Nutrition Incentive Hub works with hundreds of nutrition incentive and produce prescription practitioners across states, U.S. territories, and tribal nations to evaluate, innovate, and scale their work to reach more people.

Faith and Freedom Festival Lights Up the Sky at Immanuel

Baptist Church on June 30th!

Corunna, MI - Immanuel Baptist Church invites you to its 5th annual fireworks display!

The Faith and Freedom Festival will be an evening of patriotic celebration and breathtaking fireworks. This family-friendly event promises an unforgettable experience, uniting our community in a celebration of faith and freedom. Scheduled to commence at 6:00 PM, the festival will feature food truck vendors, games and inflatables for the kids, prize giveaways, and patriotic music and recognitions throughout the evening. Immanuel Baptist Church extends

a warm invitation to families, friends, and neighbors to come enjoy this special night.

The highlight of the evening will undoubtedly be the spectacular fireworks display after dusk. Admission to the Faith and Freedom Festival is free, parking is available in nearby parking lots and neighborhoods. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets for viewing the fireworks display.

For more information about the Faith and Freedom Festival, please visit immanuelalive.com.

ENJOY FREEDOM FROM JOINT PAIN

TLearn more about our Orthopedics & Sports Medicine services at mclaren.org/lansingorthopedics

he Best Transforming Heart Failure SelfCare: McLaren Greater Lansing’s Clinic || Congestive heart failure is a serious condition in which the heart has trouble pumping blood well enough to meet the body’s needs. Fluid builds up in the feet, arms, legs, and organs causing symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and reduced ability to perform day-to-day activities that the patient was previously able to do.

McLaren Greater Lansing’s Clinic Improves the Lives of Patients Living With Heart Failure

At the McLaren Greater Lansing Congestive Heart Failure Clinic, the physicians and providers give individualized care to all patients to improve their outcomes and symptoms and ensure

they can live a better life.

“Often, patients with heart failure have an increased number of hospital visits, so our ultimate goal is to improve their quality of life while reducing their symptoms and hospital readmissions,” said Dr. Awais Kang, a cardiologist at McLaren Greater Lansing Cardiovascular Associates.

Dr. Kang said that when the clinic can see patients within five to seven days after hospital discharge, readmission rates go down significantly, and patients are also less likely to be exposed to other illnesses and diseases, such as pneumonia.

Courtesy Photo-Dr. Kang, cardiologist, and Alison Smith, PA, providers at McLaren Greater Lansing’s Congestive Heart Failure Clinic.

in Your Dream Home

Purchasing a home is one of the largest decisions you’ll make. Whether you’re buying your first home, relocating, refinancing, or remodeling, we’re here to help.

Scan the QR code to learn more!

msufcu.org/homeloans

Graduating Class of 2024 CONGRATULATIONS, YOU DID IT

At this important milestone, I’d like to extend my sincere congratulations and best wishes to the amazing Class of 2024! You have endured some unique events over the last few years, and reached your goal!

As you reflect on the past journey of dedication and hard work, look forward to an amazing future of possibilities!

As you embark on the next chapter in your life, you will be faced with numerous crossroads and decisions. I encourage you to remember the words of wisdom from your parents, and keep them in your heart. Let their wisdom guide you.

I am proud to serve this community, and so very proud of each of

you!

Blessings, and All the best, Honorable Wanda M. Stokes

30th Circuit Court Judge

Drive Home Happy: Expert Tips for Scoring the Best Deal on Your Next Car

BY BETSY YOUNG MSUFCU Vice President of Marketing & Communications

Are you in the market for a new vehicle?

Follow these expert tips to help you Drive Home or away in your dream car without your finances taking a U-turn.

Determine Your Budget

Review your income and expenses to figure out how much car you can comfortably afford. Don’t just add the sticker price into your budget — including monthly payments, registration fees, taxes, fuel, financing, and maintenance costs.

Choose Your Financing Wisely

Look for a reputable lender and secure the best interest rate you qualify for. Understand the total loan cost, including interest and fees. Consider making a down payment to reduce the amount you need to borrow, which can save you money in the long run.

Buy or Lease?

Deciding whether to buy or lease? Here’s what you need to know:

Buying: When you buy a car and finance the purchase, you own the vehicle outright once you pay off the loan. You might benefit from manufacturer or dealer rebates and discounts, and maintenance costs can be lower thanks to warranties.

Leasing: Leasing often means lower monthly payments compared to a loan, allowing you to drive a newer car with more features. However, leases typically come with mileage limits and you won’t own the vehicle at the end of your lease unless you buy it from the dealer.

MSUFCU Can Help

Whether you’re buying, leasing, or refinancing, MSUFCU offers preapprovals in as little as 20 minutes. Plus, if you finance a new vehicle with MSUFCU from now until August 31, 2024, you can hit the open road with no payments for 90 days. Whether it’s a weekend drive, a day at the beach, or a well-deserved vacation, you can enjoy your summer vacation in a new ride, and keep more money in your pocket.

Courtesy Photo-Honorable Wanda M. Stokes 30th Circuit Court Judge

Photo Credit-Wix Stock Photo

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 empowerment 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 entrepreneurship, economic development, and community growth, echoing the visionary principles championed by Booker T. Washington. In 1881, Lewis Adams (Town) and Booker T. Washington (Gown) joined forces to establish Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute, now known as Tuskegee University, in Tuskegee Institute, Alabama. This institution was surrounded by a historic Black settlement, conceived by Dr. Washington, which, though never formally incorporated, was assigned its own zip code: 36088. This collaboration between "Town" and "Gown" laid the groundwork for further partnerships in central Alabama.

Fast forward to 1901, during the 2nd annual conference of the National Business League (NBL), Booker T. Washington invited Mayor S. L. Davis, who was elected in 1899 as the inaugural Mayor of Hobson City, Alabama, the first fully incorporated all-Black town in the state, to deliver the keynote

address. Dr. Washington urged African American communities nationwide to establish their own towns, settlements, and educational institutions. What began as a seed planted in Tuskegee in 1881 had now blossomed into a national movement. By this time, historic all-Black towns had begun to emerge across the country, including Princeville, NC (1885); Eatonville, FL (1887); Mound Bayou, MS (1887); Hobson City, AL (1899); and the community of Grambling, LA (1901), which later became the home of Grambling University.

Today, this legacy endures with over 1,000 historic Black towns and settlements and more than 100 Historic Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the nation. The upcoming conference will showcase these Blackowned businesses, professionals, and elected leaders from various corners of the country and around the globe.

Anticipated to attract hundreds of Black-owned businesses, professionals, and elected officials from around the globe, the conference will serve as a dynamic platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and forging strategic partnerships with city, state, national, federal, and global resources,

and leadership. The event is hosted by local, Black-led business institutions, including the Atlanta Business League, Greater Georgia Black Chamber of Commerce, and the Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council.

About National Alliance for Black Business (NABB):

The National Alliance for Black Business (NABB) was established on Tuesday, September 2022, at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. NABB was co-founded by The National Business League (founded in 1900), the nation's first and largest organization for Black businesses and professionals in the country; the National Black Chamber of Commerce (founded in 1993), the country’s first and largest federation of Black chambers in the United States and globally; and The World Conference of Mayors (founded in 1984), the world's largest association of global Black Mayors both domestic and abroad. Currently, NABB boasts a membership of over 50 national organizations, united in their commitment to advancing toward a unified Black business agenda with the theme “We Are Together.”

Former President Theodore Roosevelt speaking at the 11th Annual National Negro Business League Convention in New York City, New York on August 17-19, 1910.

American Black Film Festival, June 12-16, 2024 in Miami Beach, Announces the 2024 Talk Series Featuring Daniel Ezra, Meagan Good, Cory Hardrict, Lance Gross, and More!

LOS ANGELES, (May 22, 2024)

– The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) today announced its 2024 Talks Series lineup, featuring conversations and panels with industry-leading directors, producers, and talent, including Nia Long, Meagan Good, and more. The 28th annual ABFF will take place in Miami Beach June 12-16 and will be available to a global audience June 17 – 24 on ABFF PLAY (https://abffplay. com/).

In addition, the ABFF Comedy Show will be returning this year on Friday evening, June 14 with host Janelle James from ABC’s “Abbott Elementary.” Emerging stand-up comedians Alfred Kainga, Anthony Oakes, Apple Brown Betty, Mason King, and Rashaun Reese will take the 2024 ABFF Comedy Show stage to bring an evening full of laughter.

“We are thrilled to announce a robust lineup of conversations from industry leading professionals across film, television, music, and more,” said NICE CROWD President Nicole Friday. “The Talk Series is a unique first hand experience for all festival goers to hear from industry leaders and truly our favorite part about this festival experience.”

Highlights include an exclusive first look of “Tyler Perry’s Divorce in the Black” with film stars Meagan Good and Cory Hardrict presented by Amazon MGM Studios, “UnPrisoned” panel following the world premiere with Kerry Washington and Tracy McMillan presented by Onyx Collective; Money & Mindfulness: an intimate conversation with Nia Long presented by Ally, “Friday Night Vibes Goes Off the Field with All American and All American: Homecoming” a conversation with Bre-Z, Daniel Ezra, Michael Evans Behling, Geffri Maya, and Cory Hardrict presented by Warner Bros. Discovery, an exclusive sneak peek at

the second season of Hulu’s “Reasonable Doubt” with Raamla Mohamed, Emayatzy Corinealdi and McKinley Freeman presented by Onyx Collective, and the “Black & Unlimited Fatherhood Project” conversation on the joys and challenges of being a Black father in the entertainment world with Lance Gross, Carl Jones and David E. Talbert presented by Walmart.

The ABFF’s Talks Series complements previously announced programming which includes narrative and documentary official film selections, exclusive spotlight screenings and world premieres, sneak peaks and red-carpet premieres.

Highly anticipated yearly events that were previously announced include:

The 27th HBO Short Film Award Showcase featuring five shorts from emerging filmmakers who compete for the prestigious award

Best of the ABFF Awards, hosted by three-time Emmy award nominee Dondré Whitfield, where the 2024 independent film awards and talent contest winners will be presented

A new program celebrating the careers of extraordinary Black artists, kicking off this year with Retrospective: Celebrating the Legacy of Denzel Washington program

The live festival concludes on Sunday, June 16 with its annual ABFF Community Day in partnership with the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau as part of its commitment to in-

form, educate and provide opportunities in the entertainment industry to the local community. The event is free and open to all South Florida residents. All ABFF live events are held in and around Miami Beach including the New World Center, the Miami Beach Convention Center, The Fillmore, and The Betsy Hotel, including experiences presented by Cadillac and Hoorae Media, an independent media production company formed by Issa Rae.

Following is the schedule of live and virtual 2024 ABFF Talks Series events to date. For times, locations and more details, visit www.ABFF.com. ABFF Live Talks Series Events

June 12-16, 2023

Thursday, June 13, 2024: It’s All Location, Location, Location Presented by Fulton Films (GA) OfficeFilm, TV and Digital producers, actors and directors are all descending on Atlanta/Fulton County to create projects thanks to the peach state’s affordable housing market, the government’s enticing film tax credits, and the yearround ideal climate. So how is it working out for some of the stars who now call the ATL home? Join the stars of the popular BET series “The OVAL”, and the social sensation leading lady of Kountry Wayne’s skits on YouTube to hear why they chose to Live, Work, Play and Stay in Fulton County, GA, and why they encourage other creatives to do the same.

Moderator: Shaunya Chavis-RuckerPanelists: Javon Johnson, Kaye Singleton, Rolonda “Rogirl” Rochelle Navigating the Pathways to RepresentationPresented by WMEThis panel brings together the agent and manager

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Empowering Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs: Tailored Strategies for Success

Neurodiversity is a concept that views neurological differences as normal, natural variations of the human genome. This includes individuals who are on the autism spectrum, dyslexic, ADHD, and others.

Given their unique perspectives and abilities, neurodivergent individuals can be incredibly successful entrepreneurs. However, they often face unique challenges that require personalized strategies.

Today, The Chronicle News looks at some empowering strategies to help neurodivergent individuals turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality.

Balancing Act for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs

The significance of upholding a healthy work-life balance and prioritizing mental well-being cannot be overstated, particularly for neurodivergent entrepreneurs. It is crucial to recognize the unique challenges they may face and provide support tailored to their needs. By fostering an inclusive and understanding environment, we can empower neurodivergent individuals to thrive in their entrepreneurial pursuits. Let's promote awareness, acceptance, and accessibility in the business world for everyone's benefit.

You can also promote balance by reducing paper clutter. If you digitize your documents, you can have an eas-

ier time staying organized, which will save you lots of stress and hassle. This is especially true when tax season rolls around.

Building a Supportive and Inclusive Workforce

Creating a diverse and understanding team is crucial to fostering an inclusive and productive working environment for neurodivergent entrepreneurs. It allows for a range of perspectives and experiences, leading to innovative solutions and better decision-making. Embracing neurodiversity can also help break down stereotypes and promote acceptance in the workplace. Providing the necessary support and accommodations can empower neurodivergent in-

dividuals to thrive and contribute their unique talents to the team.

Save Time With Digital Tools

Digital tools can significantly streamline your workflow, especially if your job requires regular document signing. Adopting a digital signature can save you a considerable amount of time, eliminating the need for physical document handling and expediting the signing process. Digital signatures are not only efficient but also secure, designed to comply with stringent legal and regulatory requirements.

This ensures that every signed document adheres to necessary legal standards, offering peace of mind alongside convenience. For professionals whose

roles involve frequent signing, this tool is transformative. Click here to learn more about how digital signatures can enhance your work efficiency and security.

Hone in on Walking Meetings

If you live or work in a walkable area, consider making walking meetings part of your work strategy. Walking meetings benefit neurodivergent entrepreneurs by providing a dynamic environment that stimulates creativity and cognitive flexibility, potentially enhancing problem-solving abilities.

The physical activity of walking can alleviate sensory overload and anxiety, fostering a more comfortable and inclusive communication environment. Additionally, the informal setting of walking meetings can reduce social pressure and encourage more open dialogue, accommodating diverse communication styles among neurodivergent individuals.

Harnessing the Digital Wave

With the plethora of online tools accessible today, neurodivergent entrepreneurs can effectively promote their businesses to a broader...

lence As we embark on this new chapter, we also celebrate 38 incredible years of serving our community. We're grateful for the loyalty and support of

our readers, advertisers, and partners who have been with us everywhere. Stay Connected and Informed To stay up to date on our expansion and con-

tinued coverage, visit our website at www.thechroniclenews.com and follow us on social media. We're excited about this new chapter and look

forward to continuing to serve our community with the same passion and dedication that has defined us for 38 years.

systemic racism, inequality, and injustice, Juneteenth being a national holiday, serves as a powerful reminder of the need to confront these challenges headon and work together towards a more just and equitable society for all. As a

Circuit Court Judge, I am committed to upholding the principles of fairness and justice for every individual in every case that comes before me. The judiciary must ensure that the rights of all individuals are protected under the law.

This Juneteenth I call upon all Americans to honor the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us and recommit ourselves to the ongoing fight for justice, equality, and freedom for all Americans. Juneteenth is not just

a day of celebration, it’s an American holiday that calls on us to take action within our communities to ignite that positive light within us and commit again to building a more just and equitable society for future generations.