MC Digital Edition 3.11.2020

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Michigan Chronicle

Vol. 83 – No. 27 | March 11-17, 2020

Strong Support for DIA Mileage Renewal

A Vote for

Joe Biden

With strong support and anticipated passage, the Detroit Institute of Arts went to voters for approval two years sooner than the 2022 expiration date. DIA officials said they were making certain they aligned their resources and operate the DIA like a business which means coming to voters early and not waiting until the last minute.

“The mileage has changed the culture of the DIA”, said Salvador Salort-Pons, Director of the DIA. “We have to look outward to the community and reinvest into the community.”

to Erase the Malignant Presidency of Donald J. Trump

Plans are ahead for great community projects and exhibits. The DIA will present an exhibit called Van Gogh in America making the it the first museum in the nation to purchase a collection of Van Gogh’s from around the world. Other projects include an auto exhibit during the auto show in June and community murals through its mural programming.

The DIA has had a partnership with the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History through the Community Partnership Program. The DIA and the Wright have partnered on exhibitions marking the 50th anniversary of the 1967 rebellion, which won a Peninsula Prize from the Michigan Museums Association in 2017. The museums have presented multiple film partnerships, including the premiere of the Aretha Franklin film, “Amazing Grace” in 2018.

The millage renewal means a continuation in community programming and to collect 0.2 mills, which is 20 cents for every $1,000 of taxable property, or $15 a year for a home valued at $150,000. All funds are independently audited and reported on a public website to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent appropriately and transparently.

The renewal amount is the same amount approved by voters in August 2012. The millage is estimated to generate over $25 million across three counties $13.6 from Oakland, $5.8M from Macomb and $8.5M from Wayne.

The millage service agreements provide: free, unlimited general admission for tri-county residents, free school field trips and free transportation for tri-county students, free weekly programming for seniors, including free bus transportation for groups and partnerships with non-profit organizations in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties.

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By Michigan Chronicle Editorial Board

T

uesday’s Democratic Primary is now in the rearview mirror with most media outlets giving former Vice President Joe Biden the victory at 9:15 p.m. with only 32% of the vote counted.

We agree and unify with the hopefulness and faith that our endorsement stands true to the end. Michigan voters as long predicted, are at the proverbial center of the political universe.

In what didn’t disappoint as the most closely watched and analyzed primary contest since 2008, Biden faced off against Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders.

Throughout the evening there was a volley back and forth with a Biden lead. This has been one of the most decisive Democratic Primary contest since a young, upstart African American U.S. Senator from Illinois named Barack Hussein Obama edged out the powerhouse campaign of New York Senator Hillary Clinton on Super Tuesday.

It was a victory that ultimately catapulted him into the White House and Joe Biden, a long-serving U.S. Senator from Delaware at the time, along with him.

Michigan is of seven states who hosted Democratic Primaries with 125 pledged delegates allocated.

With the sheer lunacy and untruth-

fulness of the Presidency of Donald J. Trump becoming more apparent and dangerous seemingly by the minute, citizens around the country and yes, the world, will be casting their eyes on our state. The hope is that Michigan voters will provide a strong, unifying, dynamic and competent alternative to the man presently occupying the White House, and who will restore America’s leadership on the world stage.

Given what is at stake now is not the time to get experimental with the choice of his challenger. Therefore, the Michigan Chronicle will continue to enthusiastically endorse former Vice President Joe Biden in the Michigan Democratic Primary and to be the 46th President of the United States.

Not only does he have decades of proven and highly effective public service to our nation, but he also is a progressive candidate who served for eight years, faithfully, effectively and honorably as the vice president to our nation’s first black president, Barack Obama.

It is a presidency that racist Trump and his vulgar administration are determined to erase from the living memory of all Americans now and in the future. We could not think of a more worthy defender of that proud legacy than Joe Biden unless it was Mr. Obama himself.

Senator Sanders has served honor-

ably during his tenure in the U.S. Senate.

He has many thoughtful and interesting policy proposals that deserve serious consideration. However, Senator Sanders is rigid. His refusal to compromise along with his sanctimonious hectoring of politicians whose views diverge from his borders on the dogmatic. It reflects a lack of empathy and ironically for the proud liberal, a willingness to stand in someone else shoes and interpret the world through their eyes.

We have had enough of that attitude with Donald Trump.

This may go a long way toward explaining African American’s refusal to embrace his candidacy despite his progressive agenda and impressive history of fighting for civil rights.

The fact is, as a large industrial Midwestern state with a very diverse Democratic constituency, Michigan voters have the potential to make or break the campaign of either candidate. This is especially true of the Sanders campaign which is reeling following Biden’s shocking come from behind victories that catapulted him ahead in the race for delegates.

A recent Detroit News/WDIV-TV poll found Biden leading the Democratic field by nearly 7 percentage points with 29 percent support among likely primary voters,

See JOE

BIDEN page A2

State and Local Officials Join Efforts to Combat Coronavirus

By Whitney Gresham With the country possibly hurtling toward a deadly pandemic brought on by the sudden worldwide outbreak of the coronavirus disease and the Trump Administration’s inept response to it, public health officials in Michigan are taking aggressive measures to reassure residents they have the situation under control.

Detroit and state health officials are closely monitoring the public for any indication the deadly virus has hit here.

As of Monday, March 9th, 63 people met the criteria for testing for 2019-nCOV; the technical name for the disease and of that group, 39 have tested negative and 0 have tested positive. The remainder are still undergoing evaluation.

Lynn Sutfin, Public Information Officer for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said MDHHS began working with local health departments, healthcare coalitions, hospitals and healthcare partners when the coronavirus outbreak began in Wuhan, China.

“The initial focus was working with federal partners to ensure that Michigan’s public health system could support traveler screening and monitoring to limit the entry of cases into the U.S,” Sutfin said.

“Hospitals and healthcare partners were also engaged to establish screening procedures for any patients presenting for care with a travel history and symptoms that could be indicative of a possible COVID-19 case. These activities have mirrored much of the public health response to recent Ebola outbreaks.”

While the MDHHS was implementing those activities, Detroit officials have put considerable effort into planning for the next phase of this outbreak which now includes community mitigation said Denise Fair, Detroit Chief Public Health Officer.

“There have been no cases that are con-

firmed in Michigan to date,” she said. “But the DHD remains diligent and concerned.”

She noted the best way to protect oneself from contracting the disease is to avoid close contact with people who are sick, avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth and to stay inside if you feel sick.

Earlier this week Mayor Mike Duggan, Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and Detroit Water and Sewerage Director Gary Brown announced a Coronavirus Water Restart Plan to mitigate any prospective health risks from the disease by helping to ensure that all Detroiters have access to water in their homes.

Under the jointly-developed plan, for the first 30 days, the State of Michigan will cover customers’ costs to reconnect water service for Detroiters who are currently experiencing or at risk of experiencing a water service interruption due to non-pay-

ment. After 30 days, Detroiters who are at risk of a water service interruption will be able to restore or keep their water service by paying only $25 per month.

The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) serves more than 230,000 accounts that includes a residential population of nearly 700,000.

“All any resident has to do is make a call to Wayne Metro and they will avoid service interruption,” said Brown. “This is the most successful and robust assistance program in the country, resulting in 16,500 Detroit households receiving help that continued water service to their homes. With these options, no one should be without water service.”

“We deeply appreciate Governor Whitmer’s support and leadership on this issue,” said Mayor Mike Duggan. “As long as COVID-19 remains a health concern, no Detroit resident should have concerns about whether their water service will be interrupted.”

Last week President Trump signed an $8.3 billion aid package that will be used to help communities combat the scourge.

U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security Committee, and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced earlier that they had already secured $14.5 million in federal funding for Michigan from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to prepare against any outbreak and improve readiness.

In addition, funding will go towards priorities such as personal protective equipment like masks, gloves and vaccines and reimbursing state and local governments for detection and prevention efforts. Senator Peters pushed for these priorities after convening a call with public health officials and hospitals from across Michigan on preventing the spread of Coronavirus within the state.

See CORONAVIRUS page A2

Page A-2 • michiganchronicle.com •

March 11-17, 2020

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538 875 928 777 813 Award-winner Susan Watson Broke Detroit Journalism Barriers As Woman And African American 619 246 6082 9238

By Keith A. Owens, W. Kim Heron and Joe Swickard Special to the Michigan Chronicle

Self-proclaimed giants are betrayed by the fact that they cast no shadows. Susan Watson never talked about her stature – she didn’t need to. Everyone who worked with her will tell you about the long shadow she cast in her profession and in her community.

Watson passed away Saturday at the age of 76, surrounded by family and friends at her Harper Hospital bed, ending a short pulmonary illness. Watson was a pioneer and trailblazer over her 30-year career as a Detroit Free Press reporter, editor and columnist, and afterward as a labor activist and community advocate.

As a relative rookie reporter, and one of the very first African Americans in the newsroom, she was on the frontlines of the Free Press Pulitzer Prize-winning coverage of the 1967 Detroit uprising. She later teamed with fellow reporter Paul Magnusson to win a coveted Heywood Broun Award for a year-long investigation that revealed massive abuse and neglect of developmentally disabled children at a state facility. In another award-winning project, she went undercover with a small team of reporters, black and white – posing as everyday prospective homebuyers – to expose racial steering in the residential real estate business.

She won numerous other awards and was inducted into both the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame and the Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame.

Named city editor in the midst of a to-the-hilt journalistic battle with The Detroit News in 1979 or 1980.

Watson became the first African American and the first woman to lead a newsroom at a Detroit daily, and among the first of both groups to lead a newsroom in major metropolitan city.

Watson lead, drove, pushed and caressed her staff to coverage with wider, more caring eyes upon race and circumstance. She wanted officials and wrongdoers held to strict accounts while demanding stories that spoke of the individuals and people and not mere names caught in the public glare. Among her signature achievements as city editor was a 14-day series involving 30 staffers that surveyed African American life in Detroit, from politics to business to sports, from the Underground Railroad, to the Great Migration, to becoming the majority and finding political power in 1970s.

Her passion continued as a metropolitan columnist beginning in 1984 – and along with writings on politics and news, she revealed a more personal take on events, often by sharing the life and growth of her son Allen, aka The Seeker of Wisdom and Truth.”

Her love affair with the Free Press ended in the bitterness of the 1995 newspaper strike. She walked out to become a prominent strike leader -- and there would be no reconciliation.

Born in Detroit on May 19, 1943, to Horace Hermann and Susie Perry Holmes, Watson grew up in the close-knit community of River Rouge and attended River Rouge

Coronavirus From page A-1

In a press release to the Michigan Chronicle, the senators broke down how the $8.3 billion supplemental funding package is expected to be distributed.

Including: • $14.5 million for Michigan for public health response efforts; • $350 million for “hot spots” funding which Michigan municipalities can apply for in the event of an outbreak; • $500 million for masks, protective equipment and other medical supplies to allow the federal government to distribute to state and local governments and hospitals; • $950 million to reimburse for activities state and local governments have already undertaken, including: Coronavirus monitoring; laboratory testing to detect positive cases; contact tracing to identify additional positive cases; infection control at the local level to prevent additional cases; mitigation in areas with person-to-person transmission to prevent additional cases; and other public health preparedness and response activities.

Hospitals and other providers can enter into cooperative agreements with states to access this money;

High School. She graduated from the University of Michigan Honors College in 1965.

Watson is survived by her son, Allen Watson, daughter-in-law Patricia L. Watson; step-grandsons Mikyle and Spencer and her cousin Debbie Harper of River Rouge.

To understand her greatness, you need only listen to the words of those who knew her: W. Kim Heron (Free Press reporter, music writer and copy editor, Detroit Sunday Journal managing editor): Susan’s writing is so good that it’s hard to read her without envy, without hoping to cop a move or two, without wanting to be better. She had a sense of history and perspective – and she could land a punch with grace.

She was part of a generation of African American reporters who integrated heretofore all-white daily newspapers in the 1960s, and she was likewise a pioneering woman in a city newsroom where women had always been severely underrepresented. It’s hard to sum up how trailblazers like Susan influenced the profession for a more complete rendering of our times.

Judith Diebolt (Free Press reporter and editor, also Detroit News editor): She was an unflappable reporter and a master storyteller. If you look at the most important Detroit stories beginning with the 1967 Detroit Uprisings through the mid-1990s, you will find Susan Watson’s fingerprints on them. She was either covering those stories as a writer and columnist or guiding the coverage as city editor of the Free Press.

She was a woman of wit, wisdom and great personal style.

Tom Schram (Free Press reporter, Detroit Sunday Journal editor): Susan was the face of the 1995 newspaper strike and an unquestioned moral force. Walking the picket line without Susan was a completely different experience than when she was there. When Susan was absent, yelling at the scabs and line-crossers usually resulted in nasty verbal exchanges. Physical confrontations would sometimes occur.

When Susan was present, the scabs shut their mouths, put their heads down and kept walking as she gave them her silent look of disdain. Picketing with Susan was like attending Mass with the pope.

Thanks to Susan, The Detroit Sunday Journal was fiercely independent. It was a unique experiment in journalism, created and owned by the striking unions. Shortly after we began publishing, a former Free Press colleague who had moved on to a newspaper in New York emailed me and asked what would happen if the unions tried to force us to print something that we did not want to print. I emailed back: “Do you really think any union official is going to tell Susan Watson how to run a news-

paper?” A few minutes later I got a threeword reply: “Yeah, you’re right.”

Darren Nichols (Detroit News reporter): Susan Watson introduced me to newspapers. I was about eight years old and a classmate and friend with her son Allen. I saw Allen’s mom plastered on newspaper boxes all over Detroit.

Mrs. Watson quietly helped guide my path into journalism. It wasn’t until years later I realized she helped secure a visit to her alma mater (with a basketball player as my host, knowing I wanted to be a sports writer) and was the person behind Wayne State’s persistence in pursuing me saying that I came “highly recommended by people at the Free Press”.

To say her death is a loss is an understatement. It’s like losing a family member or second mom. I owe my career to her, and knowing I’ve come anywhere close to hers shows her influence on the next generation was not in vain.

Khary Kimani Turner (Coleman A. Young Center executive director): I graduated high school with Ms. Watson’s son, Allen.

He’s my brother, which means I knew her by her greatest work before I learned of her occupation. She later became a model of professionalism and consistency when I became a journalist. She honored Detroit and its people through her work, and many of the city’s best writers consider her a barometer when assessing their pedigree. I pray for her family’s comfort, and for just commendation of her spirit.

Standing ovation, Ms. Watson.

David Lawrence (former Free Press executive editor and publisher, who promoted Susan): Back in 1979 the iconic movie actor John Wayne died, and we put out a special section extolling him. Susan Watson was the top person on the city desk, and afterwards she made it clear that we used a lot of newsprint on a man who was a terrible racist and worth no honest praise. She was right then, and so often. We were fortunate to have her professional skills and her vigorous energy on behalf of what was fair and just. She was a teacher of us all. A wonderful teacher.

Jack Kresnak (Free Press reporter): Susan was one of the most influential colleagues I ever had at the Free Press. Her writing inspired me, but it was her point of view, as an African American journalist, that I valued. She was a key part of the Freep’s coverage of the 1967 riots. As an editor, she had a way of questioning reporters’ perceptions and prejudices that led to better coverage of racial issues, particularly those related to crime and justice.

One of the saddest results of the disastrous 1995 newspaper strike was losing Susan Watson who never returned to the Free Press staff. She was missed.

George Waldman (Free Press photographer): Susan and I became pretty close during the strike, two of a core of about six editorial people left at the end of the four years of the Detroit Sunday Journal.

My deepest feelings about her is that she had just about the strongest power of will I have ever known. And a clear intellect and a righteous sense of ethics.

Keith A. Owens (former Detroit Free Press editorial page writer and Michigan Chronicle Senior Editor): Susan Watson was the best Detroit had to offer, not only as a towering journalist and writer but as an activist and human being who taught others the true meaning of service. Because anyone who read a Susan Watson column knew that she was not just sharing random thoughts, she was providing a public service.

Details on services to be announced.

• $100 million for Community Health Centers; Funding to develop a Coronavirus vaccine; • Requiring consideration of supply chain security and identification of U.S.-based manufacturing facilities for key supplies; • Funding for the CDC Infectious Disease Rapid Response Fund, which helps send out CDC personnel and resources to local hot spots; and Training for local responders and surge bed capacity in hot spots.

“Coronavirus is a threat that we need to take seriously – and that’s why I’ve been pressing for more federal resources to detect, prepare and respond to any potential outbreak,” Peters said in a press release to the Michigan Chronicle. “After hearing about Michigan’s priorities firsthand, I helped secure this funding to address the most immediate health and security needs for Michiganders. Ensuring our country is safe is my top priority in the U.S. Senate, and I’m going to continue working to make sure we have the resources and support to address a potential outbreak effectively.”

That is precisely why now would be a good time for Michigan businesses to review their sick leave and work from home policies, according to Dr. Emily Toth Martin,

associate professor of Epidemiology at the University of Michigan School of Public Health.

“If COVID19 comes to Michigan, it will be important to allow people to stay home if they are sick. For Michigan residents, my recommendations are twofold: first, the medical system will get very busy if there is an outbreak in Michigan. Now is a great time to refill your prescriptions and prepare for a longer wait time to see your doctor,” she said in an email to the Michigan Chronicle. “Second, think about what you’ll need if you need to stay home while sick or need to stay home with children if any schools are closed. Having a few extra groceries on hand for this is a good idea, but no need to stockpile supplies.”

She said fortunately, there appears to be good cooperation between state and local health officials in coordinating their efforts to protect Michigan residents.

“Preparations are in full swing in anticipation of COVID-19. State and local labs are working to make testing available as soon as possible, and local health departments are preparing their plans to make sure that they can work with people who have been exposed or infected quickly and safely,” Martin said.

“At UM, we are working with CDC on plans to find out what the spread looks like in the community, if that were to happen.”

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Joe Biden From page A-1

followed by Sanders with 22.5 percent. Michael Bloomberg, who dropped out of the race was third with 10.5 percent support. Bloomberg has a strong third place showing as well on Tuesday.

And by a margin of 48 percent to 28 percent, Democratic voters in the poll said they were more concerned about which candidate could beat President Donald Trump than whether a candidate best aligns with their policy views.

Given the pivotal role Detroit plays in selecting the ultimate Democratic nominee for President of the United States, it is heartening to see voters taking such a pragmatic approach to the election.

This very editorial page has repeatedly warned that this year’s presidential election will be hands down the most consequential election in living memory and there is no time for purity tests.

As U.S. citizens, every Michigan voter has a spe-

cial duty to their family, city, state, country and our collective future to make sure your voice is heard with your vote.

Let there be no doubt, the 2020 Presidential Election in November will be vicious as it will be consequential. Trump and his malevolent Republican counterparts know this too. They will pull out every dirty trick in the book including inviting foreign interference – again. They will also wage a nationwide campaign of massive voter suppression, intimidation, and disinformation against minority and young voters.

All Americans committed to democratic values, social and economic fairness, equality and the maintenance of our constitutional republic – as imperfect as it is – must rally around the candidate who will bring the strongest fight to President Trump.

And in our view, that candidate, hands down is former Vice President and Presidential Candidate Joe Biden.

March 11-17, 2020 • michiganchronicle.com • Page A-3

Presidential Politics And Kilpatrick Clemency Served Up During

15th Annual Pancakes & Politics

By Arthur Bridgeforth Jr.

The Michigan Chronicle’s 15th Annual Pancakes and Politics offered a variety of items on the menu including the Democratic primary, overtaxed Detroiters, business equity and potential clemency for former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick.

Dennis Archer Jr. wasted no time jumping into politics when he asked Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan and Wayne County Executive Warren Evans their feelings about the stun-

ning results from Super Tuesday. Mayor Duggan, who had endorsed Democratic candidate Joe Biden, didn’t hide his pleasure with the former vice president’s victorious showing.

“He has the interest of Detroit, the interest of Michigan, the interest of middle- class America in his heart,” said Duggan, as he addressed the sellout crowd at The Detroit Athletic Club last Thursday. “And so, I made a decision to back somebody I admire, and it looks like a large part of the country has come along.”

Evans acknowledged that he endorsed and supported former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg. But he said the bottom-line of the election is that the Democratic nominee gets sent to the White House.

“One thing I guarantee is whoever the nominee is, we’re going to the mat for,” Evans said.

The topic lingered during the Pancakes and Politics Overdrive podcast session directly after the panel discussion.

NAACP Detroit Chapter Pres-

ident Rev. Wendell Anthony emphasized the monumental significance of the 2020 Presidential Election. “I might have a preference, if my preference doesn’t get it, I’m still going to play in the game,” Anthony said. “Don’t stay out the game because the stakes are too high. We are really fighting and battling for the soul – the essence of this nation.”

“Are we going to be a democracy or are we going to be an autocracy?”

Presidential politics gave way to the hot-button issue of the overtaxing of Detroit homeowners and how they should be repaid.

Although Archer queried both Duggan and Evans, the question was clearly directed at the mayor.

Duggan repeated what he said at the State of the City address two weeks ago, that the money has already been spent.

“I think those are questions we need to be honest about,” Duggan said. “That money was spent years ago, there’s no way to get it back – maybe except a huge property tax increase that would set-off another round of foreclosures.”

Duggan did get pushback from at least one person in the audience, when attorney and Detroit’s former Deputy Mayor Anthony Adams stepped to the mic. “I think part of the pushback from the community is what they perceive to be a very dismissive attitude on the part of the administration when addressing the issue,” Adams said.

He added that Mayor Duggan has changed his position on the issue from there’s nothing we can do, to let’s see what we can do. Mayor Duggan rebutted the notion of his administration being dismissive to Detroiters who were overtaxed.

He cited his support of recent state legislation to help prevent future overtaxing, as an example of his concern.

However, Duggan suggested the true battle is dealing with home foreclosures in the city.

“The most immediate issue is we need to eliminate the number of foreclosures this year,” Duggan said. “We went from 5,000 to 300 last year, but Level 300 is still too many.”

Meanwhile, the issue of regional transit– an issue that Evans has championed – drew his ire in the wake of a recent state legislative move that will

prevent a transit ballot proposal from being on the November ballot.

“I don’t know where it’s going right now,” Evans said. “Are we really interested in changing the ‘Region?’ Or is ‘Region’ a sexy word we use when we want Up Logo Opt 7_2.pdf 1 4/25/19 12:44 something?”

“I’m getting sick and tired of people talking about regionalization when they don’t mean it.”

Focus Hope CEO Portia Rob-

erson, echoed Evans’ frustration during the Overdrive session. Especially when it comes to issues like mass transit, equity in starting businesses or getting loans, that seem to divide metro Detroit, more than unify the metro area.

“I made a remark to my tablemates that it might seem dated a little bit – still having those discussions about divisions in our community,” Roberson said. “So, they feel a little old that we’re still in the same place we were 15 years ago in terms of having these conversations.”

Both Evans and Duggan agreed its essential that Black Detroiters have equal access to business opportunities in the city. They also agree it is equally important to break down institutional barriers that have long precluded blacks from building generational wealth.

When it comes to crime in Detroit, Evans and Duggan had slightly differing approaches to law enforcement.

“Policing generally is a reactive business,” said Evans, a former Wayne County Sheriff and Detroit Police Chief. “PoPM licing needs to change to the proactive side.” Evans added that he wants to see Detroit’s law enforcement agencies use

See PANCAKES & POLITICS page A5

High School Expo

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LEADERS DO WHAT’S RIGHT

and career technical centers

March 21, 2020 • 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

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DTE is taking bold steps to address climate change and ensure affordable, reliable energy. Like building the largest wind and solar installations in the state and using cleaner natural gas. Now, we’re accelerating our efforts — tripling renewables, and cutting carbon emissions in half over the next ten years. Because leaders do what’s right, not what’s easy.

DPSCD does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, transgender identity, disability, age, religion, height, weight, citizenship, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information, or any other legally protected category, in its educational programs and activities, including employment and admissions.

Questions? Concerns? Contact the Civil Rights Coordinator at (313) 240-4377 or dpscd. compliance@detroitkl2.org or 3011 West Grand Boulevard, 14th Floor, Detroit, Ml 48202.

Viewpoint Michigan Chronicle

A Real Times Media Newspaper

Oakland County is making its commitment to inclusion and equity ‘official’ as it searches for its first chief diversity/racial equity officer.

Our county has become increasingly diverse, and the need to reach and serve people from a variety of different backgrounds has increased dramatically in recent years. We must make sure that our residents’ government is working for them by serving, employing and protecting all people. We need to make sure there are cultural exploration opportunities and activi- Janet Jackson ties that increase our ability as individuals and a community to be receptive of diverse traditions and cultures, too.

That is why, with the support of my fellow commissioners, I helped create the vision that resulted in the creation of a new chief diversity/racial equity officer for Oakland County. With our new county executive’s leadership team, this idea has blossomed into practice as they search for the person to fill this role.

Although this is new for the county, we are not the first organization to recognize how important it is to identify and understand the institutional barriers marginalized people and groups face. This position is funded under our new county executive’s budget, and we are following the lead of other local counties, school systems, businesses and federal agencies. Oakland County will be following the success of other regional governments like Washtenaw and Kalamazoo counties that have made progress in racial equity, healing and inclusion. Oakland County will also be joining the majority of Fortune 500 companies. All of these organizations have recognized the value of investing in ensuring all individuals receive equal access and opportunities to their programs and services.

As a commissioner elected to a diverse district that contains a predominately African American city, it is crucial to be supportive of this effort on behalf of my constituents. Historically, I have witnessed few African Americans and people of color in decision making positions at Oakland County. The creation of this position will move us toward a more representative workforce internally, not just by creating opportunities in more entry level positions, but in higher level leadership positions as well. Research has proven that diverse workforces have higher innovation, make better decisions and attract more talent. Without

AJ WILLIAMS Managing Editor SAMUEL LOGAN Publisher 1933-2011

resources dedicated to improving diversity and inclusion, Oakland County would be at a disadvantage. As a commissioner, I have heard from constituents about their unsuccessful efforts to secure employment with the county. I have also heard from some working for the county who have felt they have not had equal opportunity or support for upward mobility. With a dedicated diversity/racial equity officer, I will feel even more confident responding to stories like theirs and knowing Oakland County is proactively addressing these issues.

Improving equity internally will also give us a better model in how we treat and serve our diverse population. Between 2000 and 2010, Oakland County’s overall population increased by about 1 percent. The African American population, though, increased by 35 percent and the Asian population by 37 percent.

With growing numbers of minority residents, Oakland County needs to be innovative in offering them valuable, relevant and accessible services.

On an even more personal note, I can attest to the difference it makes in the lives of people of color to see themselves in those whose duty it is to help.

Unfortunately, many residents must interact with local governments while they are experiencing hardship. For example, a close relative of mine experienced a sexual assault. The process that followed made it even more difficult for her because she had to give her account to people who did not look like her and who might not relate to her. She felt further isolated and violated because she did not have anyone of color to tell her story. By her account, this lack of diversity in the system was a disservice and made a very difficult experience even harder on a survivor of abuse. By making our county workforce more representative of its constituents, we will be able to provide them better support in many areas.

All people deserve equal opportunity. In addition, improvements in diversity and inclusion efforts should also help our local minority businesses and contractors, who are part of the fabric of our communities, have additional opportunities to do business with Oakland County. Our current executive administration reflects these important values and is the most diverse in Oakland County history. Together with Executive Coulter, the Board of Commissioners is working to build a culture of respect, understanding and inclusion in Oakland County.

I hope that under our leadership, the rest of the county and its many departments serving and employing our public will follow suit.

Commissioner Janet Jackson represents Oakland County’s District #21 which includes parts of Southfield and Farmington Hills.

JOHN H. SENGSTACKE Chairman-Emeritus 1912-1997

LONGWORTH M. QUINN Publisher-Emeritus 1909-1989

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March 11-17, 2020 | Page A-4

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Escaping the Debt Trap Michigan House Bill 5097 is a windfall for predatory lenders and a potential nightmare for vulnerable borrowers

By David A. Snodgrass President & CEO, Lake Trust Credit Union

The introductory description of Michigan House Bill 5097 (HB 5097) includes language explaining that this proposed legislation would “authorize licensed providers of deferred present service transactions to make certain small loans.” In other words, the bill would expand payday lending options for consumers.

Payday loans, short-term, highcost financial products, have been justifiably criticized as the preferred tool of predatory lend- David A. Snodgrass ers: a lending option that frequently traps families and individuals in a costly and potentially catastrophic cycle of debt.

Supporters of HB 5097 argue that expanding payday lending options will serve a currently underserved population, that the terms of these loans are clearly conveyed to borrowers, and that it simply makes sense to provide those who are ostensibly already seeking out larger, unregulated loans online with the freedom to pursue more regulated lending options.

But these arguments gloss over some of the very real problems with payday lending in general, and with HB 5097 specifically. Framing the discussion as one of expanded “freedom” and new “opportunity” is profoundly misleading. The reality is very different, and the beneficiaries of this legislation - should it pass - would not be consumers, but the lenders who offer these problematic products.

To understand why, we don’t have to look any further than the details of the bill itself. HB 5097 would allow lenders to charge a monthly service fee of 11% on the principal of a loan, equivalent to an annual percentage rate (APR) of around 132%. In practical terms, this means that a borrower would end up paying more than $7,000 to pay off a $2,500 two-year loan.

And it isn’t just the high rates that are concerning. The legislation states that there would be no limits on the length of these new loans, and expressly allows a consumer to use one of these “small” loans to pay off a deferred presentment loan—and even allows borrowers to renew a loan after they’ve made 30% of the payments. Consequently, borrowers could conceivably be caught in this debt trap indefinitely.

That’s not an opportunity, that’s a liability. And it’s the exact opposite of freedom.

From a big-picture perspective, it’s

reasonable to wonder why there is any need to offer yet another product that could potentially trap vulnerable borrowers in a cycle of debt. In Michigan, 70% of payday loans are taken out the same day as a previous loan is repaid, 91% of Michigan borrowers take out another loan within 60 days, and 75% of payday lenders’ revenue comes from borrowers caught in more than 10 loans per year.

Negative consequences from this type of lending is not limited to consumers - entrepreneurs and small business leaders often find themselves on the “hamster wheel” of debt facilitated by payday loan lenders.

Payday lenders in Michigan (the vast majority of which are actually headquartered out-of-state) already siphon more than $103 million in fees annually, a financial drain that not only harms families and individuals, but hampers asset-building and economic opportunity more broadly. Payday lending facilities in Michigan are disproportionately located in rural areas, lower-income communities, and communities of color.

Saddling those vulnerable communities with additional burdens like increased overdraft fees, bill payment delinquencies, involuntary bank account loss, and even bankruptcy isn’t just bad fiscal policy, it’s deeply irresponsible—and even morally questionable.

Finally, it is important to note that this bill, in addition to its many flaws, is entirely redundant. There is already legislation governing small loans in Michigan: The Michigan Regulatory Loan Act and the Credit Reform Act. The first licenses lenders and the second prohibits these lenders from charging more than 25% interest per year. Proposing a bill under the Deferred Presentment Act is an attempt to allow the payday lending industry to gain an unfair advantage by getting around the interest cap that other small loan providers are required to abide by in Michigan.

For these reasons, Lake Trust Credit Union has joined The Michigan Coalition for Responsible Lending, a broad collection of state and local financial, civic and community organizations, to call for Michigan State Legislators to reject this potentially harmful legislation.

Together, we are speaking up to say that the State of Michigan should not further expose consumers to a debt-trap business model that would constitute another form of financial abuse. Collectively, we feel compelled to shine a light on the dreadful practices of payday lenders in our state and are committed to making this issue a priority for all of our stakeholders.

While we feel strongly that consumers should have the power to make their own choices, Michigan lawmakers should not authorize the sale of clearly predatory products. Michigan’s working families need access to safe, affordable options—not to be trapped in high-cost loans that are nearly impossible to escape.

200 Years Later: The Fight For American Justice Every year during the month of February since 1976, we have taken the time to reflect on the countless contributions that African Americans have made to this nation. Though President Gerald Ford recognized that it was exceedingly frequent that African-American accomplishments were generally neglected, acknowledging those achievements is simply not enough. That became apparent during this week’s vote of H.R. 35, the “Emmett Till Anti-Lynching Act”.

In 1900, activist journalist Ida B. Wells described lynching as this country’s “national crime, carried out by intelligent people who openly avow that there is an unwritten law that justifies them in putting human beings to death without complaint Brenda Lawrence under oath, without trial by jury, without an opportunity to make a defense and without a right of appeal.”

All of us should be concerned that it has taken more than 200 bites at the legislative apple to get what most reasonable people would consider a “common sense” bill passed. This, despite the recognition of lynching’s unquestionable immorality. After more than 100 years since the first introduction, the passage of the Emmett Till Anti-lynching Act in the year 2020 is a reminder that change in this country is painfully slow. In the past, anti-lynching bills in the House have either stalled or were killed in the Senate. For more than a century, Southern resistance and Northern indifference contributed to the undermining of those legislative efforts.

During the time period between 1882 and 1968, more than 4,000 lynchings occurred in America.

Of those 4,000, 72% of those people were African American. The newly passed Emmett Till Anti-lynching Act makes lynching a federal hate crime subjecting the violator to a prison term, a fine or both.

How fitting that this bill would be named after Emmett Till. The young 14-year-old teen who in 1955, left Chicago to visit relatives in Mississippi.

Till was accused of whistling at Carolyn Bryant, a white woman who was a cashier at a local grocery store. Four days later, Bryant’s husband and other family members kidnapped Till, beat him, shot him in the head and lynched him.

In August of 2016, President Donald Trump posed the question to African Americans “What do you have to lose?” Well, four years later, President Trump sabotaged a law that guaranteed health insurance for many African Americans; he has undermined protections for voting rights; the Trump Justice Department is no longer holding police departments terrorize African American communities accountable; and he has used rhetoric that suggests the citizenship of African Americans is conditional and less than that of White Americans.

Now with the senate’s all but imminent passage of H.R. 35, the measure heads to the desk of President Trump for his signature. This will be a litmus test by the African American community for this White House. To see whether there is an ounce of compassion, empathy or remorse for a community that has for hundreds of years been abused by a system that has chosen to disregard its existence. That is a loss that the African American community simply cannot bear.

I have said many times, a politician without compassion is a criminal. I believe a country without compassion, empathy and understanding is inherently immoral. Yes, in 2020 this Congress passed anti-lynching legislation but four of my colleagues chose to vote against it. Those four represent a part of America that I had hoped no longer existed. A part of America that I thought had moved passed the loathing of people who are different.

For my four colleagues and their constituents who agree with their vote, I implore you to pay a visit to Montgomery, Alabama and take a tour of the National Memorial for Peace and Justice.

This memorial is this country’s first that is dedicated to the legacy of racial terror. There you will find 801 six-foot monuments that symbolize the brutal deaths of lynched African Americans. The names of the victims are carved into the steel columns that dangle from beams.

All of us living in America today must face head-on some uncomfortable truths when it comes to the matters of racism, inequality, and injustice in America. It is time to not just do what is easy, it is time to do what is right.

Brenda L. Lawrence (D), represents Michigan’s 14th Congressional District and is 2nd Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and the Co-Chair of both the Bipartisan Congressional Caucus for Women’s Issues and Democratic Women’s Caucus.

Primary Care Physician Training Program Threatened By Funding Congressional Funding Indecision

By Loretta V. Bush Authority Health, President and CEO, MSHA

that makes it difficult to recruit and retain residents.

Research conducted by the American Association of The critical shortage of pri- Teaching Health Centers has mary care physicians in med- found that eight out of 10 ically underserved areas has teaching health center gradubeen complicated ates are committed by Congressional to primary care, and inaction on funding more than half want for Teaching Health to work in underCenters and other served communities, safety net organicompared with 23 zations. Authority percent in traditionHealth in Detroit is al training programs. one of 56 such cenMost of Authority ters in the United Health’s graduates States that trains – 64 percent – are primary care physipracticing in medcians in community ically underserved health centers along areas or among medwith required hos- Loretta V. Bush ically-underserved pital training. Upon completion of their training, populations and our residents these physicians are more treat nearly 7,000 people aninclined to practice in under- nually who may not have had received primary care services. served areas.

Unlike the traditional grad- Teaching Health Centers uate medical education pro- are vital for preparing the prigrams funded through Medi- mary care physicians we need, care, teaching health centers to practice in the communiare funded through the Health ties that need them. Congress Resources and Services Ad- needs to create a more viable ministration and subject to funding mechanism for this renewal. Funding for the pro- program, not only for its surgram officially expired on Sept. vival, but for creating the pri20, 2019. Congress has issued mary care physicians we need temporary funding extensions in the future.

March 11-17, 2020 • michiganchronicle.com • Page A-5

Pancakes & Politics From page A-1

available crime data to identify serious career criminals. He said tracking that group will lead to a significant drop in crime.

On the other hand, Mayor Duggan would like to add 300 new police officers to the Detroit Police Department, putting more officers on the street. The Mayor acknowledged that violent crime has dropped in the city, but he said it’s still too high.

“The violence rate is nowhere near where it was six years ago, but it’s way too high,” Duggan said.

In one of the innocuous, yet interesting moments of the event, both Duggan and Evans were asked to opine on the possibility of President Donald Trump offering clemency to former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick. Kilpatrick is seven years into a 28-year federal sen-

tence in prison.

County Executive Evans dismissed the notion of him appealing to Trump to get Kilpatrick freed from prison. But that doesn’t mean he has any ill-will towards the former mayor.

“I am not opposed to clemency,” Evans said. “I’m not a person who would stand in the way.”

Evans added that he did think the 28year prison sentence was excessively long. He also said given the recent clemency of former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich, that it would stand to reason Kilpatrick also deserved the same action.

Mayor Duggan, for his part, echoed similar sentiments as Evans, when it comes to bending Trump’s ear on clemency. “Nothing I say would be helpful with President Trump,” Duggan said.

“I think Kwame Kilpatrick is an enormously talented person that has a lot to contribute.”

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Words can heal.

When you change the way you talk about opioid use disorder – and see it as a medical condition rather than a willful choice – you can help others heal. End the stigma.

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March 11-17, 2020

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Property is Power

Real Estate as an Investment

By Anthony O. Kellum To invest or not to invest? That is the burning question of 2020. If you are ripe for investment in 2020, rental properties are a great way to invest your money. To be more specific, residential income property is the way to go! If you are newer to investing or contemplating if real estate investing is for you, this article will provide you with some insight and clarity.

For many real estate is the easiest way to investment and to understand because it is straight-forward, simple and involves a fair exchange between the property owner and the property user.

But investing in real estate as an investment property Anthony O. Kellum is a tad more complex because there is more to consider, such as: the numerous types of investments to chose from including residential, industrial and commercial…let’s not forget real estate that trades on stock exchanges (REIT’s).

One thing to always keep in mind when considering buying into real estate are interest rates.

Currently forecasts for 2020 are averaging 3.73% but there may be some fluctuation and of course your credit score will also play a factor.

Black Middle Class Growth Means

Brighter Future For The City

By Arthur Bridgeforth Jr. The growth of the Black middle class in Detroit appears to be the proverbial elixir that will stabilize the city’s population, spur growth and make it a formidable major city in 21st Century America.

That is certainly the conclusion arrived at by a report released in 2019 by Detroit Future City (DFC) on growing Detroit’s Black middle class. DFC is a non-profit independent think-tank and policy-advocate.

Anika Goss, executive director for DFC, said growing the Black middle class in Detroit is the best way to ensure growth is widespread throughout the city and not just in a few neighborhoods.

“In Detroit, we have to stabilize that to grow,” Goss said.

Goss pointed to some trends that she said support this strategy. The first is looking at the percentage of Black middle-class households leaving the city for the suburbs.

Let’s explore real estate investments for beginners. When you decide to invest in real estate the goal is to stash money away today in order to have it grow so you have more money in future. The purpose is to absorb your risks, so you are able to make a profit or “return.”

Let’s consider what this means: the risk you are taking includes taxes, the cost to cover your real estate investment i.e.: insurance and utilities.

Now let’s check out different types of real estate investments.

There are 8 different types of real estate investments that you should be aware of before making an investment decision.

• Commercial Real Estate • Industrial Real Estate • Residential Real Estate • Retail Real Estate • Mixed-Use Real Estate • Mortgage Lending • Sales/leaseback transactions • Real Estate Investment Trust Each type of real estate investment has benefits and weaknesses. You have to do your due diligence to determine what is the best investment for you.

Best place to put my down payment money. Once you have decided that you are purchasing property and whether it is for your primary residence or an investment property ~ it is imperative that you know how to protect your down payment money and how to keep it accessible.

True or not…the Real Estate Myth. You need a TON of money to get started. This is probably the number one myth that keeps potential investors from taking the leap into real estate investments.

That’s not to say that there are not deals that are expensive to get done BUT there are also deals you can make to purchase property for less than you think. You just have to be more creative.

See INVESTMENT page B-2

In 2000, 28 percent of Black middle-class households left Detroit for the suburbs. Nearly 20 years later in 2017, Detroit lost 64 percent of its Black middle-class households to the suburbs.

DFC’s report looked to other city’s that had significant Black middle-class populations like Atlanta, Jackson, Miss., Washington D.C. and New York City to help assess Detroit’s Black middle-class population.

The results are mixed when comparing the overall number of middle-class households in the 50 largest U.S. cities and the number of Black middle-class households, according to the DFC report. Detroit has the lowest share of middle-class households, among the 50 largest U.S. cities.

But it has the sixth highest share of Black middle-class households among the top 50 U.S. cities, according to the report.

The report also found that within metro Detroit there are a total of 33 census tracks defined as Black middle-class

Anika Goss

Kevin Johnson

neighborhoods. Out of these, 11 are in Detroit.

So, what might the five cities with higher shares of black middle-class households be doing that Detroit needs to do?

“Through our research in Growing Detroit’s African-American Middle Class and the Reinvestment Index, we found that there are many factors that would attract people to different places,” Goss said. “These are safe secure neighborhoods, the sense of community, quality affordable housing and quality schools.”

Still the challenge remains getting those Black middle-class households that voted with their feet and left Detroit for the suburbs, to return to the city.

As well as attracting Black middle-class households from outside of Michigan.

Goss is confident Detroit can not only get this done, but she said the city isn’t sitting idly by until this happens.

“I think that the city has done a pretty good job to start to attempt to attract middle-class families to the city,” Goss said. “The Strategic Neighborhood Fund target areas have been an example of this and the neighborhoods that have been targeted through these programs have stabilized and begun to grow.”

June Manning Thomas Kevin Johnson, president and CEO of the Detroit Economic Growth Corp., said that in addition to neighborhoods, blackowned businesses play an important role in fortifying a vibrant black middle class.

“There is no overstating the importance of black-owned business to our continued development and growing the black middle class in Detroit,” Johnson said. “Black-owned businesses strengthen local economies, foster job creation, stabilize neighborhoods and help reduce poverty. Successful owners create generational wealth and provide educational opportunities for their families.”

Johnson added that it is also important to support programs that promote the growth of minority-owned businesses overall.

“I’m proud of DEGC’s Motor City Match, which has launched more than 100 brick-and-mortar businesses in the city and another 300-plus home-based businesses in Detroit,” Johnson said.

“With our partners, we’re also relaunching a procurement program that certifies Detroit businesses and connects them with local and national buyers.”

Meanwhile, U-M Professor June Manning Thomas said that finding Black

See BRIGHTER FUTURE page B-2

Detroit Mayor Duggan Unveils Major Affordable Housing Initiative

By Patreice A. Massey Did you know that there are thousands of low-income housing units that are not regulated and at risk of being gentrified, if the City does not intervene? If these units are allowed to be rented at market value then thousands of Detroiters may be displaced.

This is a problem many have seen coming for as long as there has been talk about Detroit’s comeback. You’ve undoubtedly read at least one of the many think pieces on “Two Detroits”; one that glows in the lights of downtown that’s ripe with new developments, bustling business and rents that start at about $1,200 for a one bedroom unit. Then there’s the other Detroit—the one that’s not downtown that contends with blight, public safety issues, over inflated property taxes and well you get the picture. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan got the picture as well and ran his mayoral campaign on the promise to create “One City. For All of Us”.

In 2017, During Detroit Regional Chamber’s Mackinac Policy Conference at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Mayor Mike Duggan vowed that he would work diligently to undo over 50 years of damaging urban planning decisions to rebuild Detroit as a city for everyone.

“Our principle is this: one city for all of us. That defines our planning,” Duggan told the audience.

He than began to outline eight principles to guide the City’s redevelopment,

See HOUSING page B-2

Page B-2 • michiganchronicle.com • March 11-17, 2020

Baptist Pastor of Detroit and Vicinity PHOTOS: Nicole Black

Baptist Pastors of Detroit and Vicinity Take a Stand on Census

By Nicole Black and Andre Ellington The City of Detroit is filled with great leaders in the faithbased community, but Dr. Cullian W. Hill is leading the charge on the greater community being counted in the 2020 Census. Dr. Hill, President of the Baptist Fellowship of Detroit, and Vicinity, along with twenty-five other pastors of the fellowship, are committed to bringing awareness to their congregations and are pushing citizens everywhere to participate.

“The 2020 Census and Election are the two most important things right now, but this year’s Census count is very crucial to the State of Michigan,” says Dr. Hill. “The Census count can affect us in so many ways if we’re not counted, which is why we’re urging the community to participate in this year’s 2020 Census.”

Dr. Hill, along with Pastor Wallace Mills, Senior Pastor of Ebenezer Church, is unifying pastors from across Michigan to create better ways of bringing awareness and notifying their congregations on the importance of how the Census affects their communities.

“There is money involved with the census, but at the very same time, we can lose a Senate seat if the City of Detroit isn’t counted in the Census,” says Pastor Wallace Mills. “Senior Citizens are afraid to open their doors to people they aren’t familiar with.

Additionally, some seniors don’t have computers and lack com-

Prayer Changes Things Prophet Cedric Banks “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need” — Hebrews 4:16 When we come boldly to the throne of grace we begin to obtain God’s mercy, it will begin to fall upon our lives. God’s mercy is His compassion, His love. Also, when we come boldly to the throne of grace, we find grace, grace is God’s favor.

And as we obtain God’s grace, the winds of life will begin to change in our favor where things will begin to open up for us in a blessed way.

For more info about Prophet Cedric Banks: 313-421-9977 or tjohnsonmedia@yahoo.com

Pastor Wallace Mills & Dr. Cullian W. Hill puter skills on how to fill out their census paperwork properly, so we’re working together to make this process easier for everyone.

Local pastors are being asked to join the Census-driven campaign “Everybody Counts” to make sure their church doors are open to help anyone in need, especially senior citizens.

Here are some important dates to look out for regarding the 2020 Census: • March 12 - 20: Households will begin receiving official Census Bureau mail with detailed information on how to respond to the 2020 Census online, by phone, or by mail.

• March 30 - April 1: The Census Bureau will count people

Housing

From page B-1 he also declared that he would not support any renovation project that will displace low-income residents and that he’s working to keep low-income residents in government-subsidized housing units that are at risk of being redeveloped with higher rents.

That was in 2017. Cut to 2020 and Mayor Duggan is moving toward the promises made almost three years ago.

On Monday, Mayor Mike Duggan and his Housing & Revitalization Department (HRD) announced the formation of a new Preservation Partnership.

The announcement was made at Conner Creek Senior Apartments, which is run by American Community Developers, one of the largest providers of affordable housing in the city. ACD took over the property in 2019 and immediately extended its affordability commitment through 2042 and expanded the number of guaranteed affordable units.

A primary goal of the new partnership will be to identify apartment buildings that have low rents – not because they are required to, but because of the current condition of the buildings – and to help them be redeveloped in a way that preserves the affordability and prevents displacement.

This partnership is being touted–by the mayor’s office, as a major step in the Duggan’s commitment to preserve affordable housing in the city while also improving its quality and preventing displacement.

The partnership brings together the city’s housing department, along with a number of experts in housing.

“This partnership adds a new layer to our efforts to make sure we are building one city for all of us,” Mayor Duggan said. “The revitalization taking place across our city is putting pressure on rent costs at buildings that have no requirement to provide affordable housing. So, we are going to proactively engage these building owners and offer them help with redevelopment of their properties in exchange for a commitment to keep the rents affordable for years to come, so Detroiters who stayed don’t have to live in fear of being pushed out.”

By 2023, HRD hopes to preserve 10,000 existing regulated affordable housing units in the city. This is in addition to the creation of new affordable housing in any new development that receives city funding or discounted land.

“Everyone deserves an affordable, safe place to call home,” said Melinda Clemons, vice president and Detroit market leader, Enterprise Community Partners. “Through this partnership, the team will help thousands of Detroiters stay in their homes and ensure that those homes remain affordable for years to come.”

Finally, as part of the larger preservation work, CHN Housing Partners and Cinnaire (an organization that supports community and economic development initiatives through creative financing and

who are experiencing homelessness over these three days. As part of this process, the Census Bureau counts people in shelters, at soup kitchens and mobile food vans, on the streets, and at non-sheltered, outdoor locations such as tent encampments.

April 1: Census Day is observed nationwide. By this date, every home will receive an invitation to participate in the 2020 Census. Once the invitation arrives, you should respond to your home in one of three ways: online, by phone, or by mail.

When you respond to the Census, you’ll tell the Census Bureau where you live as of April 1, 2020.

For more information, please call Greater Concord Baptist Church at (313) 891-6800.

The Preservation Partnership brings together organizations with a diverse range of expertise and experience to accomplish the team’s wide-ranging goals: Enterprise Community Partners, which will lead the team and create and implement action plans for the preservation of affordable housing in the city.

United Community Housing Coalition, a Detroit-based nonprofit that will engage residents and provide key local knowledge and guidance on tenant-retention strategies.

The partnership between Cinnaire and CHN Housing Partners, which will develop a lease-purchase program and will provide a free technical assistance program for developers to enhance their capacity for preservation of projects within their portfolios.

Data Driven Detroit will build and manage a database of affordable housing, which will also track when tax credits and agreements are expiring, in order to help proactively preserve units as affordable.

Elevate Energy will perform energy assessments and recommend energy-efficiency improvements that will improve a building’s financial sustainability. Cheaper utilities and operation costs will benefit both property owners and Community Investment Corp, a national leader on naturally occurring affordable housing (NOAH) preservation strategies.

Enterprise Community Partners will lead the team, leveraging more than 35 years of national expertise in affordable housing creation, preservation and finance, to prioritize preservation projects and develop property-level action plans. investments) are partnering to develop and deliver a unique lease-purchase program for residents in single-family rental units developed as part of the LIHTC program.

Eligible renters will be supported in becoming first-time homebuyers through a number of program components, including down-payment assistance and pre- and post-purchase counseling. In addition to preserving affordability, this program builds equity for low-income residents, improving the quality of single-family housing stock, and stabilizing neighborhoods.

“This program ensures homeownership opportunities become a reality for the many often left out of a primary way to build wealth in this country,” said Lucius Vassar, senior vice president, Detroit Market Leader for Cinnaire. “Homeownership sets the stage for economic security for low-income families to secure lasting stability through investment in one’s self, home, and community.”

Investment

options. Some employers match part or all of your contributions. Take advantage!

Here are a few strategies to start your journey towards investment.

How to invest $500: Although this may not seem like a large sum of money to invest, $500 can go far in establishing your investment portfolio or you can put it in a Certificate of Deposit (CD).

There are other options to explore to help you make your investment decisions.

From page B-1

Automate your savings: Be disciplined and set aside a certain amount of money every month. If you find that to be too challenging, take advantage of the numerous apps (i.e.: round up your purchases and other transactions to the nearest dollar which you can use as an internal or “forced” savings that makes saving a bit easier. Also, check with your bank or credit union to make automatic deductions.

Manage your debts: Prior to saving, determine what your actual debt is, how much it is costing you to carry the debt and how quickly can you rid yourself of the debt? If you are carrying a lot of high-interest rate debt, it makes sense to pay off as much as you can before you invest.

Think about your retirement: A major consideration when thinking about investing is to make sure that you have enough money once you stop working. A major priority is to take advantage of your employer’s retirement

Brighter Future From page B-1 middle-class households shouldn’t be a problem for the DFC. But DFC faces some challenges to achieve the goal of getting those households to move back into the city.

“Another factor obvious from the maps in that DFC report is that the metro area does not lack middle-class black families,” said Manning Thomas, who is the Mary Frances Berry Distinguished University Professor for U-M’s Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning. “Many have left for other localities. Fixing or reversing the reasons they left – cost of living, the foreclosure crisis, school system, etc. – is crucial for the future.”

Even given the DFC’s report, Goss said growing Detroit’s middle class isn’t the only factor in moving the city forward.

“While much of the focus is on middle-class families, we need to be supportive of many different types of households and create high-quality options for those,” Goss said. “This would include creating strong business districts where residents can access amenities in a short walk from their home.”

So, what is the alternative if Detroit doesn’t effectively grow the number of Black middle-class households?

As all investment decisions are made, it’s important that you make the best decision for you and your family.

Do your due diligence, save and explore your options.

Ninety percent of all millionaires become so through owning real estate. – Andrew Carnegie Anthony O. Kellum, Speaker, Author and TV Host NMLS # 1267030 President of Kellum Mortgage, LLC Powered by Local Lending Group NMLS # 1564678.

Connect with me on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/ propertyispower. O: 248-5991624 E: anthony@kellummortgage.com Anthony O. Kellum is on a mission to save the American Dream of Homeownership. Access to credit and serving distressed communities remains my chief focus.

“The 12 neighborhoods that are considered middle class would stabilize or grow with white middle-class households,” Goss said.

“The rest of Detroit would continue to decline.”

It’s no secret that Detroit’s revival is viewed by some blacks in the city as white gentrification. This is due to the number of whites continuing to move to the city, simultaneously with continued developments such as luxury apartments with higher rents.

But Manning Thomas suggest that gentrification is playing out differently in a city like Detroit with an 80 percent majority black population.

“The major challenges from white gentrification in Detroit differ than those in other cities,” Manning Thomas said. “So much of the central city had emptied out that the kind of physical displacement apparent in other cities has been minimal. But rent is another matter, and so is what some people feel is social displacement.”

Manning Thomas adds that is also where growth in Detroit’s Black middle class comes into play.

“It could be that if blacks felt they had an equal chance at gaining the jobs newly arising in the CBD (central business district) – that is – if the black middle class were able to share in the incoming wealth, concerns about this issue would die down, a lot,” Manning Thomas said.

March 11-17, 2020 • michiganchronicle.com • Page B-3

Detroit Red Wings Empowering City Youth with Learn. Play. Score Rooted in a commitment to building confidence and character, promoting positive values, and imparting enduring life skills, thousands of youth across the city of Detroit will have the unique opportunity to participate in the Detroit Red Wings pioneering Learn, Play, Score program – an interactive extension of hockey’s Declaration of Principles. This program is funded through an initial $1 million investment in partnership with the Detroit Red Wings, the Detroit Red Wings Foundation and the NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth Fund to grow and expand access to the game of hockey across the city of Detroit.

Through community partnerships with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan, the Detroit Parks & Recreation Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD), EverFi and the Mike Ilitch School of Business at Wayne State University, over 30,000 youth in the city of Detroit will experience the sport of hockey through a distinctive array of events and engagements over the next two years. The Red Wings are working with several metro Detroit and national organizations to coordinate on the exclusive programming, curriculum and operation of the program.

“This is all about empowering the youth in our city. Hockey is more than just a sport. It is about teamwork, dedication, maintaining a healthy body, mind and spirit. We are committed to being a leader in finding innovative ways to connect younger generations to hockey in the community, and the Detroit Red Wings Learn, Play, Score program will provide that very opportunity,” said Christopher Ilitch, President & CEO, Il-

and traditional hockey.

Non-traditional hockey platforms include: • Street Hockey in the D with Detroit Parks & Recreation and Detroit Public Schools Community District • After School League (Detroit Parks & Recreation) • Summer Fun Center Sessions (Detroit Parks & Recreation) • School Edition (Physical Education Curriculum Integration -Detroit Public Schools Community District) • Hockey in the Classroom with Detroit Public Schools Community District itch Holdings, Inc., and Governor, President and CEO, Detroit Red Wings. “It all starts with the kids of this city – the next generation – and we’re looking forward to an exciting two years as the program takes shape and offers them the dynamic new experiences they deserve.”

“We are thrilled that the Ilitch Organization and Detroit Red Wings are engaging the city of Detroit to grow and make hockey more welcoming for everyone in the area,” said Kim Davis NHL EVP, Social Impact, Growth Initiatives and Legislative Affairs. “It is critically important to give back to cities like Detroit to make sure we are collaborating with them to develop opportunities for those who need it most.”

“Along with the NHL and the Red Wings, we’re extremely proud to be supporting the formation of the Detroit Red Wings Learn, Play, Score program,” said Mathieu Schneider, NHLPA Special As-

sistant to the Executive Director. “Exposing children to the game of hockey, both on and off the ice, is something that the Players and the NHLPA have long valued and this project is a perfect example of the positive impact that the Industry Growth Fund is having across the league.”

Detroit Red Wings Learn, Play, Score will engage 79 DPSCD elementary and middle schools, 12 Detroit Parks & Recreation “Fun Centers” and four Boys & Girls clubs across the city of Detroit in the next year. Ice rinks within the newly-formed Detroit Hockey Rink Collaborative (DHRC), including East Side Hockey Ice Arena, Jack Adams Memorial Arena and the outdoor rink at Clark Park – will each offer affordable Learn to Skate and Little Wings Learn to Play programs.

The initiative will initially consist of five platforms within non-traditional

• Future Goals™ – Hockey Scholar and STEM Day at Little Caesars Arena presented by Chevrolet • Esports & Hockey with Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan Traditional hockey platforms include: Detroit Hockey Rink Collaborative and On-Ice Hockey Pathway Scholarships with Clark Park, East Side Hockey Ice Arena and Jack Adams Memorial Arena Open Skate Sessions at Little Caesars Arena To ensure each program element meets and exceeds goals, the Mike Ilitch School of Business at Wayne State University, as well as Oakland University and the University of Michigan will provide independent data reporting and analysis support.

To learn more about Detroit Red Wings Learn, Play, Score, visit www.Detroit­ RedWings.com/learnplayscore.

If I could do one thing, I’d tell the world she counts.

Communities are as rich and diverse as their needs. That’s why completing the 2020 Census matters. It’s a safe and confidential step toward having an impact on how public funds flow through our communities.

That could mean more resources in your area for special needs. It’s within your control.

Learn more at:

2020CENSUS.GOV Paid for by U.S. Census Bureau.

2019_Census_Braile_Newspaper_HalfPage_SizeB_9_889x10.indd 1

1/15/20 4:50 PM

B4

| March 11-17, 2020

Money.

michiganchronicle.com

Detroit at Work This is the third article in a five-week series.

For the next three weeks, guest columnist Nicole Sherard-Freeman, Executive Director of Detroit at Work and Workforce Development for the City, will share the inside track on how to get ready and stay ready for jobs and careers in Detroit. This week, she shares a few tips on ways to stand out from the crowd when you interview for FCA and other opportunities in the City.

5 Ways to Stand Out from the Crowd in Your Job Interview For the past couple of weeks, my column has been about how to be sure you’re taking full advantage of the production operator, skilled trades, and professional jobs FCA is bringing to Detroit. This week, I’m sharing a few ways to stand out in your next job interview…but not just at FCA. Detroit at Work is the staffing partner for many employers across the City. Here’s what we’ve learned in our work with employers, and five things you need to know to stand out from the crowd.

Be sure you have a well-written resume. Your resume doesn’t need to be fancy. You don’t need a picture, colors, or fancy fonts. In fact, those things can sometimes make your resume stand out from the crowd in a negative way with employers. The most important thing is what your resume says about your experience. Start your resume with a Background Summary, or Career Objectives to help the employer know what you’re looking for and what you’re good at. Most recruiters only look at your resume for a minute or so before deciding whether to call you…and many employers now use recruiting technology to look for a skills match before a human ever lays eyes on your resume. Try to keep your resume to one page, be sure there are no spelling or grammatical erNicole Sherard-Freeman rors, and make sure your resume highlights the many skills you bring to the table. Need help?

Come in to your neighborhood Detroit at Work Career Center and let a Career Advisor help you build a resume that showcases who you are.

Get comfortable talking about your skills. Develop an ‘elevator speech’ to describe what you’re good at. In 60 – 90 seconds (about the time you would have to tell someone something on an elevator ride), be able to crisply and clearly talk about your skills, and what you want to do next. Be specific. Saying ‘you like to help people’, or ‘you want to want to help people’ describes about 95% of the general population. Statements like that are easy to come up what, but they don’t leave a lasting impression.

9 out of 10 people I talk to about a job or career tell me ‘I like people’. Those job-seekers don’t make it to the top of the pile. Need help talking about yourself? Welcome to the crowd! Most of us have trouble coming up with an elevator pitch. Come on in to your neighborhood Detroit at Work Career Center and let us help.

Remember, an interview is a sales job…and you’re the product. Despite what the federal government reports as a tight labor market, employers still have a choice about who they hire. It’s your responsibility to present yourself in a way that helps the employer see that you’ll make the company better by being there. You’ll stand out from the crowd if you know something about the company, the job, and the skills that are most important to the employer. Preparing for your interview doesn’t need to be a research project (unless you’re applying for a senior level role), but you definitely need to spend 30 minutes understanding the basics before you walk in. I spent the first 7 years of my career as a corporate recruiter, and was always stunned by how little time candidates spent preparing for the basics.

Want to stand out from the crowd? Know your stuff.

Sweat all the small stuff. You’ve probably heard ‘don’t sweat the small stuff’ a hundred times in your life. Well, a job interview is the one time in life you SHOULD sweat the small stuff. All of it. If you want to stand out from the crowd, then being even 1 minute late for your interview is unacceptable. Be 15 – 20 minutes EARLY. (Remember the grandmothers, uncles and pastors in your life who told you, ‘to be on time is to be late; and to be early is to be on time.’? Well, it’s still true.) Dress the part. If you’re going for an FCA production job interview, a nice pair of jeans or slacks, and a shirt without print or logos is just fine. You can even wear nice---but not flashy---gym shoes to your FCA interview because of the physical test during the interview, but don’t try that anywhere else unless you know for sure that it’s allowed. Take a pen and pad of paper and take a few notes. Have 2 – 3 questions ready to ask the interviewer about the job, company, and what’s most important in the company’s hiring decision. In your first interview, do not ask questions about pay, vacation time, sick time, or anything that could leave the impression that you’re not a hard worker. Of course pay is important, but do your research somewhere else before you get in the room. If the pay isn’t right for your life circumstances, you shouldn’t apply for the job in the first place.

Follow up after the interview. Get the recruiter or interviewers business card or contact information before you leave, then follow up with an email or a note. Remind the interviewer of why you’re the right person for the job. Keep it short and simple.

Remember that making it to the interview is an important milestone in your job search, and not every interview will lead to a job. Give yourself a minute to be disappointed, but don’t let your disappointment turn into discouragement. Find the positive people in your life who can help you look at it as a chance to learn, and consider it a practice round for the next time. Keep at it, and let’s make 2020 your year!

Detroit at Work now has 8 career centers across the City. Go to www.DetroitAtWork.com for more information about resume building and interview skills workshops at a location near you. Come back next week for the 4th installment of this 5-part series on how Detroit at Work can help you find and get ready for your next opportunity.

Kevin Johnson, Porsha Robinson, Rufus Bartell, Cathy Nedd, Hiram E. Jackson, Louis James

Who’s Who In Black Detroit Celebrates Achievement, Inspires Teamwork

By Alan Hunt II

gathered to celebrate African American achievement in Detroit.

Dr. Carter G. Woodson created Negro History Week, now celebrated as Black History Month, in February 1926. Woodson, known as the “Father of Black History”, intended to encourage the study of African American history.

The ceremony, hosted by Ed Gordon, honored Detroit icons of the past, living legends and gave special recognition to top CEOs of the city.

More than 90 years later, Woodson’s mission continues to be fulfilled and in the final week of February, Who’s Who In Black Detroit honored those making history today.

On Thursday February 27, the ninth edition of Who’s Who In Black Detroit was unveiled at International Banquet Center. Professionals, elected officials, and executives

Real Times Media CEO Hiram Jackson urged the sold-out crowd to take advantage of the opportunity to connect with one another and collaborate on initiatives to move Detroit forward.

said Roberson.

“You know individually we are all doing great work, collectively we can move mountains. I think hearing that reinforced the work I do individually but what still needs to be done collectively.”

Louis James, CEO of SEEL, agreed and said unity is essential for progression.

For Portia Roberson, CEO of Focus HOPE, Jackson’s remarks were a call to action.

“Detroit’s business community, especially the black business community, is coming together and we have to keep pushing to make it grow and evolve with each other.”

“I think what [Jackson] said resonated with me the most about owning and driving the economy in Detroit and just leading in Detroit,”

Whatever evolution may come, Who’s Who In Black Detroit will document its history just as Woodson encouraged.

Hiram E. Jackson, Sonya Mayes, Kevin Johnson

Monique Marks, Cathy Nedd

Global Automotive Alliance Celebrates Appointment of Kevin Williams as CEO

By AJ Williams Managing Editor

Detroit business elite and elected officials gathered at the Charles H. Wright museum this past Tuesday for a reception and fireside chat to celebrate the appointment of Kevin Williams as President, CEO, and Partner of Global Automotive Alliance (GAA).

Among the elected officials, Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist, whose opening remarks applauded Executive Chairman, Bill Pickard for his dedication to making an impact on the community through entrepreneurship.

“In an infinite number of ways Dr. Pickard has touched many lives with his leadership and mentorship by creating space for people to be leaders not only in this community but also in every community he’s personal and professionally touched.” He continued, “It’s great to be here and have [Williams] at the helm of a company of such international importance and we’re proud that these kinds of businesses can thrive in Michigan. I see it as my responsibility as Lieutenant Governor of this great state that we can create the condition for as many people and as many enterprising people can feel that their enterprising businesses can thrive here in this state, following this model.”

Carol Cain and President, CEO and Partner (GAA) Kevin Williams Lit. Gov. Gilchrist continued

Executive Chairman (GAA) Bill Pickard, President, CEO and Partner (GAA) Kevin Williams, Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist | Photo by: Brian Sevald – brian@briansevald.com) with expressing the commitment of the state to ensure the inclusion of governmental contracting for African-Americans. “We have a lot of work to do to ensure that this is true for as many people and particularly that this is true for black people in the state of Michigan. The

commitment that our administration has made since our second day in office is to remove the barriers to one potential growth avenue for businesses that started small but got very large, that is in the area of

See KEVIN

WILLIAMS page B5

March 11-17, 2020 • michiganchronicle.com • Page B-5

President & CEO, Kevin Williams and family

Chuck Stokes, Dr. William Pickard, Paul Hubbard

Kevin Williams From page B-5 government contracting.”

During negotiations, Kevin advised Pickard that if he was to take on this task that it would be with a vision of carrying out what we all started many years ago, but the caveat was that his wife had to agree to it.

Kevin Williams and Associates

In a special thank you, Pickcard spoke of the vision of Williams and the company moving forward. “Without vision, the people perish. I want to tell you he [Williams] is a major shareholder in our great company. Someone asked me why would I do this, and I was reminded of someone saying, perhaps, to Rosa Parks, “Why did you refuse to give up your seat?”

Because you had a vision that things could change and things could get even better.”

Vivian Pickard and friends

Pickard concluded with a thank you addressed to Williams’ wife and daughters.

“You epitomize the American dream and on behalf of the 3,000 families that Kevin will lead, thank you, because you give hope and vision to black entrepreneurship”

Larry Crawford, Paul Hubbard, Isra Beard

For any business to survive in the 21st century, it requires global leadership that understands how to scale for small businesses and Williams comes with years of experience in technology, quality, engineering, and most importantly, global leadership to move GAA forward.

HAP IS HERE

Investing in our community

Ken Harris, Kevin Williams

hap.org

Page B-6 • michiganchronicle.com •

February 5-11,2020 2020 March 11-17,

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City. Life. Style.

C1 | March 11-17, 2020

Where City Meets Life and Life Meets Style

Detroit-based sneaker shop hosts grand opening celebration for

michiganchronicle.com

F

ahrenheit 313, Detroit’s hottest sneaker exchange, plans to open its doors to the public with a 313 Day grand opening and rebrand celebration at the their storefront (20114 Livernois Avenue). During the grand opening, customers will be able to view the one of a kind built out retail space as well as purchase from Fahrenheit 313’s expansive shoe collection including rare deadstock and vintage sneakers.

The grand opening will also feature giveaways, live entertainment and sneaker raffles.

Following the event Fahrenheit 313 will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 6pm and during the week starting summer 2020.

“We’ve worked tirelessly to get to this point and it’s so re-

warding to finally be able to share our collection with those who also have a love for sneakers,” said Frederick Paul II, owner of Fahrenheit 313. “I understand the love that people have for sneakers, which is why I wanted to provide an additional retail option here in my hometown. Our goal is to create a unique shopping experience where Detroiters can purchase new and classic styles, all within the city limits.”

Paul founded Fahrenheit 313, formerly known as The Heat Factory, in 2016 after struggling as a cashstrapped college student. That experience led him to sell some of his old vintage sneakers to accumulate extra funds. He successfully sold multiple pairs of shoes, which eventually

See 313 DAY page C-2

F lowers for

Dreams

Opens First Michigan Location in Detroit in the Shinola Hotel’s Parker’s Alley in Downtown Detroit

F

lowers for Dreams, where every bouquet purchased benefits an amazing local charity, will begin full-service hours and free delivery throughout Metro Detroit beginning Tuesday, March 10.

Located at 1435 W. Farmer Street in the Shinola Hotel’s Parker’s Alley in downtown Detroit, Flowers for Dreams will donate 25 percent of all net profits to local charitable partners. Flowers for Dreams has given close to $600,000 to 90 local charities in Chicago and Milwaukee, their two current locations, since 2012 and will announce their inaugural Detroit charity partner in the coming weeks.

“We decided to open a store in Detroit for a variety of reasons but most importantly, we were drawn

STORE HOURS & DETAILS to the region’s strong sense of community and commitment to building and supporting their city, which we saw first-hand when people started visiting the store and voting for their favorite local charity,” said Flowers for Dreams co-founder Steven Dyme. “We look forward to partnering with many Detroit organizations as we establish our roots in the city. And now, with the store open seven days a week and offering free hand-delivery, we look forward to making Detroit even more beautiful, one bouquet at a time.”

The store held a soft opening last month leading up to Valentine’s Day and asked those first customers to nominate their favorite local charity as a possible Flowers for Dreams philanthropic partner. In

See FLOWERS FOR DREAMS page C-2

Flowers for Dreams 1435 W. Farmer Street The Shinola Hotel’s Parker’s Alley Monday – Thursday: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Friday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Free delivery throughout metro Detroit; each delivery made by hand

Page C-2 • michiganchronicle.com • March 11-17, 2020

Nail Trends For The Spring And Summer 2020 Revealed The spring season is almost upon us, but what will it bring in the way of nail trends?

As the new season begins, styles introduced last year continue their momentum, and classic looks make a fabulous comeback. Sparkles? You bet!

While early 2019 gave us neons and nudes, 2020 brings back someof our favorites and the chance to experiment with a broader spectrum, bold statements and more importantly, something authentic to you.

Join the award-winning Live True London with some insider expertise on what’s going to be hot this year. Whether you want something subtle or want to stand out, there’s something for everyone.

1. Micro French Manicure – the French Mani got a headstart back in the Summer of 2019 and has been gaining momentum ever since. If you’re looking to go bold yet dainty this year, but crave a little subtlety, consider a modern take on the classic aesthetic.

2. Sparkles! – we know it’s a guilty pleasure for many, well good news: sparkles are making a comeback! Our tip? Mix up an otherwise everyday look by applying some glitter to your index and ring fingers. This style is for those who want to keep it simple but want to shine through the winter months.

3. Over The Top – for anyone wanting to make a bold statement with bling, there are no limits with the maximalist accents. Let your nails do the talking with over the top jewels and glitter polishes. Bold is beautiful.

4. Gradient Nails – one of the easiest styles you

can apply is the very same one in your Instagram feed. Choose a selection from a similar hue that offers full transitional

coverage. Take it one step further and incorporate a gradient effect using sparkles. It needn’t be art to be nail art!

313 Day

From page C-1

Flowers For Dreams From page C-1 one week, more than 200 customers visited the store and made more than 100 non-profit nominations, one of which will be selected as the first beneficiary.

“Flowers for Dreams is a great fit for the small business-focused retail scene in Parker’s Alley,

joining local favorites like The Lip Bar, DROUGHT and Good Neighbor,” said Sam Hamburger, Bedrock’s VP of Acquisitions and Leasing. “We love the organization’s commitment to the community and we look forward to watching another small business flourish in downtown Detroit.”

inspired him to create his own retail brand. After managing the business for a few years, Paul went on to receive both the Motor City Match space award, a $25,000 cash grant, as well as the TechTown Retail Bootcamp Pitch Showcase award.

Since launching, Fahrenheit 313 has also remained invested in giving back to the community. In 2016, Paul launched the #BehindTheHats campaign which provided 30 meals for Gleaners Food Bank. Back in 2017, Paul began organizing the City Champ Series, which features three different sporting events that encourages residents to get active while serving the community. Money raised from the events has provided collegiate book scholarships and more

than 100 fully stocked backpacks for Detroit Public Schools Community District students. Moving forward, Paul hopes to continue his partnership with DPSCD by donating a percentage of the store’s membership sales to the school district.

“As a graduate of Detroit Public Schools Community School District, it’s important for me to sew back into the village that has helped me get to where I am today,” said Frederick Paul, owner of Fahrenheit 313. “My hope is that the students who are in the same seats I once sat in, will be inspired to become positive leaders of our community and the next generation of entrepreneurs from Detroit.”

To learn more about Fahrenheit 313 and their grand opening on Friday, March 13th starting at 12 pm., visit www.fahrenheit313.com

S.W.A.G. Scholarship Awards are back!

Things to remember: Application deadline for 2020 scholarships: March 31, 2020.

Students Wired for Achievement and Greatness The Michigan Chronicle and TCF Bank are back for the fifth annual S.W.A.G. Scholarship Awards! TCF Bank is expanding its commitment to the community and the future of Detroit with a $100,000 commitment. This year, $95,000 in scholarships are available, including the new $20,000 Grand Prize.

High school seniors who live in the city, have a 2.25-3.2 GPA and attend a Detroit Public Schools Community District or Detroit charter school and plan to attend college or trade school for the Fall 2020 semester are eligible to apply.

Also new for 2020, school professionals, including teachers, coaches, counselors, and other administrators at qualifying schools, can also secure a S.W.A.G. Award school improvement grant through the program’s new Influencer Award. Five $1,000 grants will be awarded. Principals, students, and parents can nominate the individuals that go above and beyond for their students.

Apply online at michiganchronicle.com/swagawards

Only completed applications will be considered.

Attach a current copy of your high school report card when indicated.

Consideration for any scholarship is based on a point system including GPA, participation in extracurricular activities, school organizations and community service.

Submissions will be judged on the uniqueness of your story (50%), your reference letter (30%), and clarity and grammar (20%) NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT NECESSARY. 2020 Michigan Chronicle/TCF Bank S.W.A.G. Awards entry period starts at 12:00 AM ET on 2/10/20 and ends 11:59:59 PM ET on 3/31/2020. Open only to 12th graders who are 16 and older who are legal residents of the City of Detroit or Metro Detroit area who: (a) attend a public or charter Detroit high school; (b) will graduate in spring 2020; (c) have grade point average between 2.25-3.25 (or equivalent; and (d) are in good community standing. Visit www.michiganchronicle.com/ swagawards for entry instructions, submission requirements, prizes and complete details. Only one (1) submission per entrant. Void where prohibited or restricted by law.

Terms and Conditions

Apply by March 31, 2020

March 11-17, 2020 • michiganchronicle.com •

This past Saturday the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) honored celebrated pianist André Watts and longtime orchestra supporter and cultural leader Chacona W. Baugh at the annual Arthur L. Johnson-Honorable Damon Jerome Keith Classical Roots Celebration. The Winter Gala also premiered the original work of composer Nkeiru Okoye’s Black Bottom, a new work inspired by the historic African-American Detroit neighborhood of the same name.

For 42 years, the DSO’s Classical Roots concerts have presented African-American composers and musicians, and since 2001, the Celebration has honored composers, musicians, educators, and leaders for lifetime achievement as well as raised funds to support the DSO’s African-American music and musician development programs.

For more information visit dso.org/classicalroots Photo Credit: Photography By Tafari

Page C-3

Classified FORECLOSURE

Oakland County Treasurer

Andy Meisner I am committed to fighting foreclosure to keep families in their homes and companies open for business.

INKSTER HOUSING COMMISSION NOTICE OF INVITATION FOR BIDS IFB No. B20004

Rehabilitation of 3 Fire Damaged Units (Reissuance)

HOW TO OBTAIN THE IFB DOCUMENTS ON THE EPROCUREMENT MARKETPLACE

DEADLINE TO SUBMIT QUESTIONS BID SUBMITTAL RETURN

BID SUBMITTAL DEADLINE

Help is here you have tried the rest now it’s time to try the Best

NOTICE OF SEIZURE AND INTENT TO FORFEIT TO: MATTHEW THOMAS You are notified that on 02-03-20, pursuant to MCL 333.7521, the Michigan State Police seized the following: $3,393.00.

My Work Is GUARANTEED you will see RESULTS within 72 Hours

Stop Suffering and Start Living A Better Life

To claim an interest in this property you must within twenty days of the first publication, file a claim with the MSP at 3050 West Grand Blvd., Detroit, MI 48202, TX 586-790-3990. Failure to file a claim will result in the forfeiture of the property.

Louisiana Rootman Bro Harris will tell you everything without you telling me anything

ANNOUNCEMENTS BOGGS SCHOOL OPEN ENROLLMENT

Get the HELP you Need TODAY Call (313)341-0145 or Write Bro Harris P.O. Box 21765 Detriot, MI 48221

ANNOUNCEMENTS

AGENCY CONTACT PERSON

LEGAL NOTICE

BLESSED BE.

Call 248-858-0611 OR VISIT oakgov.com/treasurer

Paul Bollinger, Executive Director Telephone: (313)561-2892 E-Mail: bollingerp@inksterhousing.org TDD/TTY: (800)545-1833 1. Access ha.internationaleprocurement.com (no “www”).

2. Click on the “Login” button in the upper left side.

3. Follow the listed directions.

4. If you have any problems in accessing or registering on the Marketplace, please call customer support at (866)526-9266.

Tuesday, March 3, 2020, 3:00 PM ET 4500 Inkster Road, Inkster, MI 48141 Friday, March 6, 2020, 3:00 PM ET Attn: Paul Bollinger, Executive Director Administrative Office 4500 Inkster Road, Inkster, MI 48141 Monday, March 16, 2020, 3:00 PM ET

[Section 3, Minority- and/or women-owned businesses are encouraged to respond]

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS The Owner, the River Rouge Housing Commission, will receive Bids for the following construction work: Capital Fund Program: The project consists of Replacing Existing Security Storm Doors and Frames, including demolition and removal from the site of existing doors and frames, where indicated, in numerous locations throughout the Housing Commission property, on Goodell, Kleinow, Lenoir and Superior Streets.

Base Bid Proposals: BIDS WILL BE RECEIVED for the above work until 2:00 p.m. local time on Friday April 17, 2020 at the offices of the River Rouge Housing Commission, located at 180 Visger Road, River Rouge, MI 48218.

A MANDATORY PRE-BID CONFERENCE and walk-through of the project will be conducted on Wednesday April 8, at 12:00 noon at Hyacinth Court located at 460-1/2 Lenoir Court, River Rouge, Michigan. The Owner will review the project requirements and all in attendance will proceed to the Project sites.

Attention is called to the fact that not less than the minimum salaries and wages, as set forth in the Request for Proposal, must be paid on this project.

All bids submitted must be accompanied with a Bid Bond, acceptable to the Owner or a Certified Check in the amount of five percent (5%) of the bid amount, and prior to award, the successful bidder shall be required to obtain a “Treasury Listed” Labor, Material and Performance Bond covering the entire value of the project. Bidders shall refer to the Request for Proposal, for other bidding and project requirements.

Further, any Bidder awarded a Contract to perform work, acting by and through the River Rouge Housing Commission, shall make every effort to hire area residents, and shall provide the training and supervision necessary to assure that such hired persons are able to perform quality and acceptable work.

Labeling of Envelopes: One (1) Original and Three (3) copies shall be submitted inside a sealed envelope with the following noted on the face: “THIS ENVELOPE CONTAINS BID ON SECURITY STORM DOOR REPLACEMENT (File No._______), due on or before _________________ on ____________________.”

Time Date Electronic documents may be obtained at the following location: www.riverrougehousing.com Office of the Owner: River Rouge Housing Commission

180 Visger Road

River Rouge, Michigan 48044

Withdrawal of Bids: A bidder may withdraw its bid, either personally or by written request, at any time prior to the scheduled time for opening bids.

No bidder may withdraw its bid for period of sixty (60) calendar days after the date set for opening thereof or until the successful bidder enters into the contract. Bids shall be subject to acceptance by the River Rouge Housing Commission during this period.

Bid security may be forfeited by any bidder who withdraws his/her bid prior to the execution of a contract with the successful bidder of the expiration of the sixty (60) day period.

Rejection of Bids: The River Rouge Housing Commission reserves the right to reject or accept any or all Bids or to waive any irregularities in the Bids submitted. The rejection may include but not be limited to any bid which is incomplete, obscure, or irregular. One or more items in the price schedule may be rejected. Any proposal in which unit prices are omitted, or in which prices are obviously unbalanced, may be rejected. Conditional bids, or those which take exception to the specifications, may be considered nonresponsive and may be rejected.

THE RIVER ROUGE HOUSING COMMISSION Ms. Lori Long, Executive Director

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REQUEST FOR QUOTE The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is soliciting quotes for Systems Map Printing. Solicitation forms for RFQ Control No. 20-3100 may be obtained beginning March 9, 2020 from http://www.mitn.info.

Proposals are due by 3:00 PM ET, March 27, 2020.

2020 Census WCCCD Hosts on Rally & Voter Educati . B1 ROOTS

ronicle Michigan Ch Powered by

Vol. 83 – No.

5-11, 22 | February

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is soliciting RFQ for Dell Precision 7920 Tower Control No. 20-3067A. RFQ forms may be obtained beginning March 11, 2020 from http://www.mitn.info.

RFQ is due by 3:00 PM ET, March 31, 2020.

HELP WANTED

Seeking

Real Times

chronicle.com Media | michigan

2020

WCCCD Chancellor Dr. Curtis L. Ivery Receives rity Airport Autho Appointment

y Communit Wayne CountyChancellor Dr. College District has been appointed Curtis L. Iveryof the Wayne County n Chairperso (WCAA) Board expires Airport Authority term which to for a four-year was appointed nt Ivery in 2024. ber independe the seven-mem County Executive board by Wayne Warren Evans. with the is tasked manageThe WCAA and operation an Wayne strategic Metropolit ment of Detroit County Airand port Willow Run Airport. Detroit Metro is Airport one of the busiest airports in the world, and year last ranked first in customsatisfacGresham er

By Whitney tion by J.D. read stories Curtis L. Ivery . TogethKarl D. Gregory s about Associates When Dr. newspaper Power and Metropolitan Airport the local recently in Detroit overtaxing homeowner, Detroit Willow Run Airport following the city of world’s $600 million property (DTW) and one of the hubs, lower ers by roughly tion (YIP) represent to accurately Recession, the transporta its failure the Great leading air 1,100 flights could only more than four contivalues following professor recording and from retired economics a day to $10.2 billion head. of providing shake his emeritus impact and nents and ed professor economic in Rochdistinguish in annual A University e of jobs. at Oakland a catastroph thousands economics knew such by this appointDetroiy to work “I am honored ester, Gregory black and brown at the the opportunit to adwould impact And he shuddered be for ment and colleagues most most. would board the it ters with my how difficult victim’s whole of the world’shubs,” the thought of tion vance one crisis make all of transporta the city to that Detroit important another financial “We know without creating said Ivery. Willow Run are vital engine of its own.

Metro and the economic forward. parts of our region that drives a dynamic and innoDuring suchin transportation and vative time Michigan, it is truly in southeastchampion that moveexciting to region thrive the help our be and to many people, ment minds of crisis is going said, Excome to symbolSo, in the into the future.” r or Chief “This particular to resolve,” he Gregscandal has and black painful source of County overtaxing African Americans at its worst,” As the Chancello especially of Wayne y the main up in the Ivery “This is capitalism historicall ize for many particular, the frustrating Afecutive Officer is tied “because y College District, ip between in the U.S. ng. In Detroiters in commuory said.

Communit relationsh black wealth homes.” isn’t exaggerati largest urban maddening and the U.S. Economy. directs the district in Michigan.

2018 Michigan and The professor equity in their group of AmeriAmericans to a July rship known and than any nity college transformation of the biggest fact, according homeowne na- rican of the best businesses took the “And more be- Public Radio report, Ivery led the a thriving, six-camIndeed, some Americans s and ericans declined Recession from Discans, black the Great District into for African-Am of the Great Reces- large major institution a conpluralistic based on profits as homes as which rates losses during the wake with a histor- today were foundedloans using slaves pus, inclusively nearly 70,000 losing their tionwide in crisis serves in Michigan, with rship, cause of trict that and 36 cities of the mortgage ” Gregory sion. However of black homeowne slavery and annually, sequence recession, square level steeper— the students collateral. across 500 ically high es of these the drop wasin 2016. nahelped triggered beneficiari from and townships report noted 40% is a recognized edu“The currenthave also benefitted capsaid. was wiped the 51% in 2000 to just miles. Ivery gains leader, early edublack wealth Macomb couninterest and d to take from “Much of tional thought in the ill-gotten of years from encourage advocate, Oakland and ed rates,” were drops equity “Wayne, qualified,” hundreds largest at compound cation and and scholar. out as families if they were not and ties experienced the erican homeown- ital gains earned even of repackage cator, author t, with out loans said. intuig the state. And African-Am the creation banks would d almost were the hardest-hi Thus, Gregory he said. “The to others, eliminatin Ivery directed workforce develunderstoo transfer- ers aged 45-64 rates falling 18%.

120 proWhile it is sell the loans initial lender and more than rship has page A2 of the homeownership and academic the d purchaser “risk” to HOUSING CRISIS erican homeowne opment, careerretrain workers for than in any uninforme See DETROIT the inevitable African-Am Michigan ring it to the grams to help in emerging sector So when further in taken it said. loan packages. had their homes and it fallen state since 2000,” new careers a rigorously transpeople other , and has defaulted that happened industries model Mortgages from them lot of wealth.” parent operating point for edua . reference wiped out become a s nationwide cational institution

sing Detroit Hou

State of Black

rican Crisis: Ame

Economy

Vol. 83 – No.

19 |

Celebrate Black

Seeking

School of Medicine

To provide specialized office assistance, coordinating procedural business or service activities for a complex program area involving processing, implementing, advising on, and reporting specialized subject matter. Minimum Qualifications: High school graduation or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Four years progressively responsible office experience, including direct experience in office coordination, i.e., prioritizing work assignments, maintaining work flow to meet deadlines. This is a full time, clerical-technical position. Salary is $43,718.00 annually.

See online posting for additional position requirements. First consideration will be given to those who apply by March 23, 2020.

Must apply online to: https://jobs.oakland.edu

Assistant Research Scientist Assistant Research Scientist for the University of Michigan Dept of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science (Ann Arbor). Requires a PhD in Computer Science and Engineering and any experience in natural language processing and multimodal processing. Experience can be gained during PhD studies or dissertation.

Duties include: Conduct research in the area of natural language processing and multimodal processing to solve applications such as deception detection, conversation analysis, and automatic text classification.

Initiate new projects, collaborate on existing projects and foster new collaborative relationships with industry and government sponsors. Develop and submit new proposals, write technical reports and publish papers. Mentor and co-advise PhD, MS and undergraduate students.

Send resume and letter detailing experience to: Karen Liska, 3709 Beyster Bldg, 2260 Hayward, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109. UM is an Affirmative Action-Equal Opportunity Employer.

PASTOR NEEDED NEW FELLOWSHIP MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH is in search of a dedicated Pastor.

Please submit a resume to: N.F.M.B. Church 20515 Chapel St., Detroit, MI 48219

Five Decades Retirement After y Announces .com Rev. Dr. Jim Holle Powered by Real Times Media | michiganchronicle service to years of on, Dr. After 48 and congregati announced his church Jim Holley this past Reverend retirement his pending announced the buildSunday and senior citizen facility ing of a new Holley’s retirement day this spring.

New Year’s years of will be official will end 50 2022 which his church leaderand pastoring

2020 January 15-21,

ship. he reto the church to the In a letter his first coming to De. flected on moving y Rendering I Baps Preliminar city. “I remember 1, 1969, after Little Rock Holley Residence growing; Historic of the greatest this great troit on January Rev. Dr. Jim to come to Dr. Hooks tist Church is one and beyond. was asked mentor, the late Dr. serve under to in America Civil excited to business, I was honored churches city by my Hooks, famed Direc- at his church. critical pathways And, we’ve done God’sbut on the Benjamin on the Executive .”

Sundays, Senior join him Movement not just on Rights Leader, NAACP, and the Civil Rights NT page A2 “today, tor of the Greater New Mount of on to say, See RETIREME and said Holley went Pastor of Church,” ip of 1,500 Moriah Baptistfresh out of semi- with a membersh was was Holley. “I Chicago and in nary school

History in Style:

s Shinola Introduce

Smokey Robinson

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hts: Voter’s Rig

later Over fifty years ing we are still fight

more aggressive ed gram, a much better-fund senator, Tim program, a much Clark said. black Republican program,” by the an of South Carolina. were from badly weakened U.S. Su- Scott worse for Those remarksevent obtained . been Making matters , Trump’s of the 2013 in Southfieldof Republican-controlled Wisconsin disastrous Americans has pub- audiotape that chre Cemetery group One preme Court’s County v. African death and campaign to by the shared with the AssoHer violent fighting for decision in Shelby re-election its intent t Now and other Americans aggresvote throughou Holder. c licly announced massive and efforts ciated Press.

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Montgome 2020 that, Republicans suppressin d by declaring 5 Preclearan unfettered November been Repubjudges led in battlegroun tool, the Section free and tional.

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Rights Act Senate andCatholic Churchat Holy Sepul- own GOP-led administra current she is buried Trump’s President approve. , so tion would it happening “I don’t see important to get Chat more elecit’s all the Exclusive Fireside t in the 2020 out and vote stated. with NNPA Presiden the tions,” Jones n F. Chavis Jones about his Dr. Benjami in Chavis asked women played role Black to the Senate.

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By Stacy M.Senior Correspondent NNPA Newswire “It was critical. we got the Afthat Jones of voter turnmaking sure vote out,” The importance ation of the rican American out, the Reauthoriz Act, bipartisan stated.

African get more Voting RightsFutures Act and “We did the counted as a percentage politics, President ntal justice, Americans tackenvironme even when a topics candidly out than first race, among the historic fireside chat Pres- Obama did in his proud of. The F. Chavis Jr., Medalist led during aNational Newspaper was very and Dr. Benjamin Association fact that I Olympic Gold came out n (NNPA) between (D-AL) and encommunity r Publishers ReAssociatio keynote Jones the Black to Newspape Doug It’s community turnout, Publishers Lisa Leslie CEO Dr. Benjamin Senator Fu- worked hard. a 365-days a year of the National Chat on Black voter Senator of the President and Alabama’s it’s politics, the ident and CEO the Black Jr., annual Keeper Act, bipartisan Exclusive Fireside F. Chavis, tion’s current gagement; that’s why it a Democrat. meet for an of the Voting Rights job. And, important because and the administra Dream Awards Doug Jones, on engaged,” ntal justice Press is so the Hart Building authorizati the community Held inside Capitol in Wash- tures Act, environme , Jones B3 protection been keeps U.S. houractions. near the a lot of voter have he stated. signed the engaging the military in the ed that voting rights year, Trump bipartiington, D.C., said Roy Moore on marked SenLate last Act, a Election.

Republican U.S. long conversati put under attack. old the Futures that a sitting ed 2017 Alabama Special that would same as the hard y first time for a live-stream of “It’s not the but there’s still san measure into Historicall to vote was Press s ator sat down laws, funding “The right the Black Jim Crow African Americans to suppress more and Universitie video with ervI think too efforts out there people from Black Colleges fought for and minority-s country, America. for grant- votes and keep the (HBCUs) and other was broadcast in this take that access to s. that in the having that free The discussionPress of Ameri- many people ing institution we proved Black page A2 2017, that booths,” he stated. ed. I think live on the page. election in VOTER TURNOUT stated. he’s working See special that Jones ca’s Facebook , Jones counts,” Jones noted the Voting discussion V. y every vote “teeth” in During the particularl 2013 Shelby to restore turnout – Since the – were said voter which eliminatAmericans decision, that of African stunning upset of Holder his crucial in

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MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Accounts Payable

OFFICE ASSISTANT III AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY

HELP WANTED

Detroit

ACCOUNTING CLERK IV AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY To maintain a variety of highly specialized and centralized accounting records and to coordinate the clerical accounting function of the unit. Minimum Qualifications: High school graduation or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Four years clerical accounting/bookkeeping experience. Ability to work under pressure.

Ability to operate standard office equipment.

Ability to effectively interact with the public, students, faculty, and staff. Salary is $43,718.00 annually. See online posting for additional position requirements.

First consideration will be given to those who apply by March 13, 2020.

Must apply online to: https://jobs.oakland.edu

Applications are available at the school (8:30am-6pm M-F) or on the website beginning April 1: boggsschool.org/application-instructions We are closed April 6-13.

MECLIALKED2ITIO0N20 SP Chronicle an ig h Mic WHAT’S INSIDE

REQUEST FOR QUOTE

The Boggs School’s open application period for the 2020-21 school year is April 1-30, 2020, and our random selection drawing, if needed, will be May 8 at 5pm at the school (4141 Mitchell St., Detroit, 48207).

SENIOR SOFTWARE ENGINEER (Detroit, MI)

Design and develop software for Internet of Things (IoT) industrial wearable safety technology. Develop rules engine to process events, create Docker deployment scripts, develop Spring Restful business tiers and UI pages. Provide technical guidance and support for development and systems troubleshooting. Requires Bachelor’s in Computer Science or foreign equivalent and three years of experience in UI page development, Webservice implementation, application data validation, Spring, MongoDB, and Maven. Mail resumes to: Guardhat Inc. Attn: Chris Ventura, Finance and Procurement Manager. 1520 Woodward Ave., 3rd Flr, Detroit, MI 48226. Ref No 9259.

PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Senior Embedded Software Engineer Warren, MI, General Motors. Analyze, design, test, dvlp, &perform wireframe anlys for major Human Machine Interface (HMI) &UI enhancements to psgr vehicle embedded Center Stack Module (CSM), IP Cluster &Vehicle Interface Processor, incldg Voice Rec &Offboard Navi features, using Jacinto free scale processors in CAN bus signals &Ethernet protocol, on Android platform, using C/C++ &Java languages, Linux, Android &QNX OS, multi-threading programming, using Git, Gerrit, Jenkins, Android Studio, Artifactory, CANdb++, DOORS, RTC, VehicleSpy, Wireshark, CANoe &CAN Simulator tools, &follow Agile methodology. Design CAN protocols bridge to communicate between vehicle ECUs incldg Trailer Interface/Electrnic Brake Control/Super Video Processing &Trailer Tire Pressure Modules, &Vehicle Data using HW Abstraction Layer. Design &implement data synchronization w/ backend cloud server using OAuth &REST API protocol. Bachelor, Electrical, Electronics, or Electronics &Communication Engrg. 60 mox exp as Engineer, Developer, or Architect, designing, &dvlpg major Enterprise embedded High Availability (HA storage) data storage systems or major HMI enhancements for CSM, using Ethernet protocol, using C/C++ &Java languages, &follow Agile methodology, or related. Mail resume to Ref#2250-101, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

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.com iganchronicle Media | mich Real Times Powered by

Vol.

9, 2019 | March 13-1 82 – No. 27

ilson Dr. M. Roy W for Has Delivered Wayne State

By Hiram E.

Jackson

/CEO REAL PUBLISHER

TIMES MEDIA

d the n was name Wayne Roy Wilso When M. history of recall dent in the 12th presi rsity in 2013, I can if the State Unive hoping that, hadn’t fiuniversity at least setman, it had keep the inits nally found one who could the right tled on some e and headed in stitution stabl direction.

WilNow, as dency son’s presi sixth nears its clear year, it’s been that he has more so much akthan a caret ’s state er for our relargest urban rsisearch unive n Wilso ty. Indeed, himn prove has son vision- Hiram E. Jack self to be to and t not just ary, smar y committed of Detroit. wholeheartedl , but to all s acWayne State university’ a few of the watch: Consider r his ents unde rate ation complishm gradu ear the State’s six-y ovement in • Wayne fastest impr the Afrihas had the ding a tripling of inclu rate nation — graduation its largcan American welcomed the school • Last fall, class in history est freshman its commitened ol has deep a provost • The scho sion by creating disity; a chief ment to inclu oversee diver Multiculposition to r; and an Office of

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WWW.MICHIGANCHRONICLE.COM

The Michigan Chronicle 1452 Randolph, Detroit, MI 48226 e 313 963-8100 Going After th ss Jobs" e-Clatroit to Reclaim e of Mggaidn dl Calls for De otheAdrldreod ities "MSO ss Mayor Dug City for Job Opportun TC din In

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Classified PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED Component Validation Engineer Warren, MI, General Motors. Test, debug, &validate on test bench &in vehicle component, subsystem &vehicle technical specs of conventional, semi-autonomous, &autonomous psgr vehicle embedded ECUs incldg Central Gateway (CGM)/ Body Control (BCM)/Folding Seats (FSM)/Wireless Charging (WCM) Modules, &power sliding console feature, using MATLAB, Simulink, ETAS INCA, VehicleSpy, JavaScript &E2 tools. Create Validation Cross Reference Index &validate subsys reqrmnts. Use DOORS/RTC tools to capture &analyze Component (CTS), Subsystem (SSTS), &Vehicle Technical (VTS) Specs for Body ECUs. Engineer, design &develop test methods &techniques using internal &AUTOSAR standards. Develop VBA macros to add, modify &remove requirements from test procedures. Bachelor, Electrical, Mechanical, or Automotive Engrg. 12 mos.’ exp as Engineer, testing &validating on test bench &in vehicle subsystem &technical specifications of psgr vehicle embedded ECUs in CGM, BCM, or ECM, using MATLAB, INCA, VehicleSpy, &JavaScript tools, or related. Mail resume to Ref#23772, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

Senior Prototype Engineer – Human Machine Interface Warren, MI, General Motors. Create, dvlp, test, debug, &validate prototype &production SW &Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for improvement of User Interface (UI) &User Experience (UX) designs in psgr vehicle Center Stack Module (CSM), incldg Energy, Climate, Voice Recognition &SiriusXM satellite radio sys apps, w/ touch screen HMIs &APIs in multi-threading Inter Process Communication (IPC) models, in Android &Linux OS, C/C++, Java &Kotlin languages, using Git, Gerrit, Jenkins, Android Studio, ADB, Artifactory, DOORS/RTC, VehicleSpy, Illustrator, Photoshop &Affinity Photo/Designer tools, &follow Agile methodology, to improve feature functionality incldg customized customer content &customer friendly UX. Dvlp SW interfaces to improve representation of hybrid electric &electric psgr vehicle CSM information layouts, in CAN bus signals &Ethernet protocol, incldg battery power consumption &charging scheduling, &charging time to completion. Bachelor, Mechatronics, Electronics, Electrical Engrg, or related. 6 mos exp as Engineer, dvlpg &validating prototype &production SW for improvement of UI &UX designs in psgr vehicle Center Stack Module or IP Cluster, w/APIs in multi-threading IPC models, in Linux OS, using Git &Illustrator tools, or related. Mail resume to Ref#5845508, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

March 11-17, 2020

THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED

PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED

Senior Software Engineer

Systems Engineer I

Warren, MI, General Motors. Dvlp test automation tools to test, validate, debug, automate &verify sys &component level testing on test bench &in vehicle psgr vehicle Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC), Integrated Center Stack display, &Human Machine Interface (HMI) interactions incldg soft/hard touch buttons, &features incldg Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Navigation, Apple Carplay &Android Auto Apps, OnStar &radio speech recognition, Alexa &Google home interaction, &Vehicle to Back Office connectivity, in C++, C#.NET, Java, Python, &VTEST Studio languages. Use Git, TFS, RTC, DOORS, Visual Source Safe, Vector CANoe, VehicleSpy tools, &neoVI FIRE2, RAD-Galaxy, RAD-Moon HW, to perform sys &subsys test automation &testing to meet automotive infotainment syss &in vehicle communications reqmts in compliance w/ ISO26262 Automotive Safety Standards &AUTOSAR standards. Master, Electrical, Electronic or Mech. Engrg, Instrument Technology, or related. 12 mos exp as Engineer, dvlpg test automation tools to validate &automate sys &component level testing on test bench &in vehicle psgr vehicle IPC, HMI interactions, &features incldg Bluetooth, Navigation, &speech recognition, in C++ &C#.NET or Python languages, or related. Mail resume to Ref#4279, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

Design Release Engineer- Video Processing Module, Automated Driving & Active Safety Cameras Warren, MI, General Motors. Dvlp, improve, &test global conventional &semi-autonomous psgr vehicle embedded ECUs for Video Processing Modules using Simulink, Vector CANoe, VehicleSpy, DOORS, Teamcenter Vismockup, &E-2 tools, for vehicle viewing viewports (front/rear standard/junction/bowl/ &side views), objects detection &vision, vision processing algorithms, lane centering detection, &pedestrian protection. Engr, dvlp &integrate released vehicle active safety HW (housings, PCBs, &brackets) &SW features including Trailering, 360 Surround View, Lane Keep Assist, Pedestrian Collision Mitigation, Collision Imminent Braking, using VehicleSpy, DPS, Soft Part Release &E-2, in compliance w/ FMVSS#111 Rear visibility, &Japan driver visibility reqmts. Verify LAN execution in CAN bus &Ethernet data in vehicle on test bench.

Required travel via private automobile to Milford Proving Ground, typically 1-2 days p/wk to perform in vehicle testing. Bachelor, Electrical, Mechanical, or Mechatronic Engrg.

12 mos exp as Engineer, dvlpg &testing global psgr vehicle trailering or pedestrian collision sys, using Teamcenter Vismockup tool, incldg vehicle trailering viewing viewports, or related.

Mail resume to Ref#6112, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

Senior Process Engineer-Transmission, Drive Unit, & eMotor Assy

Software Developer Connected Core Applications

Warren, MI, General Motors. Design, define mechanical drawings &tooling, equipment &machinery build reqmts &processes, integrate, &assure plant installation, &launch of conventional &electric (EV) psgr vehicle 6, 8, &10 spd &drive unit (EV) FWD &RWD transmission, driveline, &eMotor assy &machining equipment &tools to produce transmissions, drivelines &eMotors in high volume transmission mfg plant environment. Support transmission plants w/ line balancing activities to meet productivity targets in OH / MI / MEX transmission plants. Define processes &implement gap closures in Bills of Equipment/ Process / Material, &Operation.

Evaluate &provide process improvement, external contractor performance, &supplier eqpmnt delivery feedback to Central Mfg Engrg mgrs.

Dvlp pressure decay, mass flow programs for transmission leak test &selection of eqpmnt, &perform flexibility leak test inspections. Required travel to vehicle transmission plants in U.S./MEX to evaluate &improve mfg processes &facilities layouts, &support launches, up to 12 Wks P/A .

Bachelor, Mechanical or Automotive Engrg. 12 mos exp as Engineer, designing, defining mechanical drawings &tooling, equipment &machinery build reqmts &processes, &assuring plant installation, &launching of psgr vehicle 8 or 10 spd transmission assy &machining eqpmnt &tools to produce transmissions in high volume mfg plant environment. Mail resume to Ref#1932, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

General Motors, Detroit, MI. Dvlp, debug, &validate psgr vehicle current &new U.S./global mobile &in vehicle customer facing apps in Android &iOS OS, &Hybrid cross platform app dvlpmt, to ensure secure app exper., &to provide services (Terms &Conditions Privacy Statements, voice recognition (VR), Bluetooth &Bluetooth Low Energy, maps, smart trailering, myBrand, &appShop) &user interfaces for Android Auto &CarPlay, &improved Vehicle to Back Office &Vehicle to Mobile communication for vehicle infotainment sys &mobile phones, in C/C++, Java, &Swift languages, in Agile methodologies (incldg users stories, sprint, &backlogs), using Git, Jenkins, X-code, Android Studio, TFS, MS Project Management, SONAR, Visual Studio, VS Code &Atom tools. Dvlp VR &in vehicle map apps, &implement RESTful web-services.

Master, Computer Science, Info. Technology, Info. Systems Security, or related. 12 mos exp as Developer or Engineer, dvlpg or debugging mobile customer facing apps in Android &iOS OS, to ensure secure app exper., &to provide services (VR, maps) &user interface, in Java &Swift languages, in Agile methodology, using Git, Jenkins, &Android Studio tools, or related.

Mail resume to Ref#21515-260, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

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Nexteer Automotive Corporation seeks a Systems Engineer I in Saginaw, MI, responsible to develop or update the validated dynamic system models for customer delivery and internal use; among other duties. Min. bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering. Send resume to: Angela Passariello, Nexteer Automotive, 3900 E. Holland Rd., Saginaw, MI 48601, Ref #10586526.

Design Release Engineer – Wiring Harness Warren, MI, General Motors. Engr, design, &release gasoline &diesel IC engine psgr vehicle multi-branch wiring harnesses, incldg wire, terminals, connectors, coverings &attachments, using Teamcenter VisMockup, E2, Engineering Change Request, &Auros tools. Use Problem Resolution &Tracking Sys &Global Vehicle Dev. Process processes, CAD techniques, &apply GD&T, CAE, DFM/DFA, DFMEA, DRBTR, Red X, DFSS processes, to design &validate wiring harness branch points for multi-branch harnesses, pin level, cavities, size, &thermal resistance specs &reqmts. Dvlp, execute &evaluate psgr vehicle power signal &distribution designs at Cmpnt/Sub-Sys &Vehicle Technical Specs levels incldg anlys, dvlpmt &testing. Bachelor, Electrical, Mechanical, Electronic Systems Engrg, or related. 12 mos exp as Engineer, engrg or releasing gasoline &diesel IC engine psgr vehicle multi-branch wiring harnesses, incldg wire, terminals, connectors, coverings &attachments, using Teamcenter VisMockup &E2 tools. Mail resume to Ref#554, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

Human Factors Engineer Warren, MI, General Motors. Assess human factors-related reqmts for new vehicle programs.

Evaluate vehicle math data exported from Teamcenter Visualization for human factors assessments. Evaluate &improve ergonomics incldg human anatomical, anthropometric, physiological &biomechanical characteristics, &HMI in vehicle interior designs incldg vehicle front interior HW &SW to optimize user input commands to Center Stack Module (CSM), radio, &navigation. Apply Cognitive Design to vehicle interior designs incorporating human perception/calculation, mental processing, memory, &decision making, in setting reqmts for CSM, console, steering wheel, IP cluster, radio, navigation &seat syss, incldg setting reqmts for buttons, button order &placement. Improve engrg &design of psgr vehicle interiors incldg steering wheel, gear shift, IP cluster, door pad, seats, overhead console &CSM emphasizing driver &psgr reach, visibility &hand clearance to access of controls & interfaces, using Siemens Jack tool.

Use Siemens Jack &Process Simulate Human to perform virtual assessments. Master, Kinesiology, Human Kinetics, or Ergonomics. 12 mos exp as Ergonomist, Engineer, Industrial Designer, or related, evaluating &improving ergonomics incldg human anatomical, anthropometric, physiological &biomechanical characteristics, &HMI in vehicle interior designs incldg vehicle front interior, &using Siemens Jack tool to perform virtual assessments, or related. Mail resume to Ref#261, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Screen Time: What Research Says and What Parents Can Do (StatePoint) Screen time is a hot topic for parents and researchers alike. While digital devices are the norm, and children can certainly use them to their benefit, parents can also help children learn healthy digital habits.

Research is still working out the long-term impact of devices on kids. Here’s what’s known so far, and what you as a parent can do about it.

• Devices Before Bed = No Sleep: It’s undisputed: when it comes to bedtime, devices are a big no-no. According to Hoag Medical Group, devices are known to emit a specific light wavelength that messes with sleep patterns. Doctors recommend that kids don’t use devices for at least one hour before bed.

The fix: At night, stick to the basics. Read to your children or tell them a bedtime story. When they’re old enough to read to themselves, encourage them to stick with the habit of curling up with a good book before light’s out.

• Screen Time Linked to Depression and Anxiety: According to a study published in JAMA Pediatrics, kids who spend a lot of time in front of screens are at a greater risk for emotional issues and low self-esteem. This is in part because the more time kids are spending in front of screens, the less time they’re spending doing healthy activities like socializing or being active. Additionally, certain content can increase anxiety, particularly social media.

The fix: Distract kids with fun, thought-provoking alternatives. Whether it’s a trip to the playground, board games or fort-building, putting screens away gives children’s imaginations time to flourish.

• Verbal ‘Warnings’ Do More Harm Than Good: Every parent knows the struggle of limiting device use. Handing a tablet over is easy enough, but getting it back? That’s when the struggle begins. According to research, giving kids a warning that screen time is coming to an end increases the chances that kids will fight back and defy their limitation.

The fix: Setting clear limits on tech use is not just important, it’s essential. New technology can help you do so much more seamlessly than an idle warning. Think apps that don’t lead kids into the next level of a game or give parents control over kids’ devices remotely.

One such tool is a parental control app called OurPact. To start, parents sign up for a free account. After pairing their child’s devices, they’re able to manage them remotely through at-atouch blocking or automated schedules. It’s great for setting bedtime schedules, ensuring devices don’t cause homework distractions and for enjoying ping-free family dinners. It works on Wi-Fi and all cellular connections, meaning you can manage access whether you’re at the grocery store or at home. To learn more or download, visit OurPact.com.

And of course, open the lines of communication about device use with your kids early on, and keep the dialogue going.

Explain why screen time rules are important and set a good example. If you don’t want your kid to look at their device in the middle of a conversation, hold yourself to the same rule.

4 Questions and Answers to Help You Manage Severe Asthma (StatePoint) The majority of the more than 25 million Americans living with asthma enjoy active, healthy lives. But for others, despite using high dose asthma medicines and avoiding triggers, severe symptoms are a part of daily life.

If this describes your experience, it could be severe asthma, a type of asthma that affects approximately 5-10 percent of those with the condition. Severe asthma is dangerous; increasing the risk of death, illness, and depression, and limiting one’s ability to work or go to school. It is responsible for 50 percent of all asthma healthcare costs.

Even with severe asthma control is attainable, according to American Lung Association, which is offering these four questions and answers to help you determine your next steps: 1. How do I know if my asthma symptoms are under control?

With severe asthma, people tend to have three or more symptoms (sometimes daily), such as shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing or wheezing, and most likely wake-up nightly due to those symptoms.

Also, if you’ve gone to the emergency department or were hospitalized due to asthma at least two times during the past year and were given oral corticosteroids to keep asthma under control, your asthma is most likely not well controlled. Despite all your efforts to take your medications as prescribed, your symptoms continue. If this sounds like you, you may have severe asthma.

2. How do I know if I have severe asthma? There are several different types of asthma and knowing what kind you have can help in your treatment plan and management of symptoms.

Testing for severe asthma may involve taking a blood sample, analyzing your lung mucus or taking a breath droplet test.

These tests are looking for biomarkers, or identifiers that cause Type-2 inflammation, or other factors that cause non-Type-2 inflammation, resulting in your daily uncontrolled symptoms.

Common types of severe asthma include allergic, eosinophilic (also known as e-asthma) and non-eosinophilic asthma. If your specialist confirms a diagnosis of severe asthma and determines your specific type, they will develop a personalized treatment plan with you.

3. What severe asthma treatments are available for me?

Treatment options may include: • Biologics: medicines targeting biomarkers causing type 2 inflammation.

• Bronchial Thermoplasty (BT): a minor lung procedure that applies heat to the airways to decrease overgrowth (remodeling) of the smooth muscles and improve symptoms.

• Antibiotic medicines or oral corticosteroids: medicines targeting non-type 2 inflammation caused when there are unknown biomarkers, or as a result of other health conditions. Note: If possible, it is important to discuss with your doctor how to best reduce the need for oral corticosteroids.

4. Where do I go from here? What actions can I start today?

Gaining control of your asthma starts by taking American Lung Association’s My Asthma Control Assessment to determine your level of asthma control. Once you have a better understanding of your asthma, you may need to see a specialist who can better explain what type of asthma you have and what treatment options are available. Make an appointment to visit your asthma doctor to start the discussion, and download the Lung Association’s Shared Decision-Making Worksheet. This tool, available at Lung.org/severe-asthma, can help you discuss with your specialist which treatment plan might be best for you.

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• michiganchronicle.com • March 11-17, 2020

FOR ALL TOYOTA OFFERS

1

any all-new

2020 HIGHLANDER

750

$

(Excludes Hybrid)

APR CASH

2

When financed through TFS

ARRIVING DAILY! -or- Lease a new

2020 RAV4 LE

5

8-Speed AT ECT-i 4-Door FWD SUV Gas Model #4430

$219/mo. 3-Year 10,000-Mile/Year Lease

500 $ 1500

219

$

any new 2020 RAV4 (Excludes Hybrid)

$

BONUS CASH 3 OVER & ABOVE ALL OTHER INCENTIVES!

TOTAL APR CASH 4

When financed through TFS Includes $500 Bonus Cash

Per Mo.

36 Mos. $2999 Due at Signing Includes $500 Bonus Cash applied to lease.

-or- Lease a new

8

2020 COROLLA LE

1

CVTi-S 4-Door Sedan Gas Model #1852

$169/mo. 3-Year 10,000-Mile/Year Lease

1250

169

any new 2020 COROLLA (Excludes Hybrid)

$

$

CUSTOMER CASH 6

$750 CUSTOMER CASH on 2020 COROLLA HYBRID & HATCHBACK

1.9

-or-

%

APR Financing

for

60 Mos.7

2.9% APR Financing on 2020 COROLLA HYBRID & HATCHBACK

1

1750

$

any new 2020 AVALON (Includes Hybrid)

CUSTOMER CASH6

-orany new 2020 AVALON (Excludes Hybrid)

2.9% for 60

APR Financing Expanded Toyota Military Rebate Program For

MILITARY PERSONNEL & THEIR FAMILES Ask about the

500

$

500

$

COLLEGE GRAD REBATE PROGRAM

OVER & ABOVE ALL OTHER INCENTIVES!

11

Mos.9

OVER & ABOVE ALL OTHER INCENTIVES!

Per Mo.

36 Mos. $2999 Due at Signing

GO GET YOUR NEW TOYOTA CAR, TRUCK OR SUV TODAY! H NOW INCLUDES ALL RETIRED MILITARY H (Regardless of Time Since Retirement)

10

H ACTIVE-DUTY & INACTIVE RESERVE H MILITARY PERSONNEL H HONORABLY DISCHARGED VETERANS H Within 2 Years of Service See dealer for details.

Every New Toyota Comes With ToyotaCare.

12

Toyota’s No Cost Maintenance Plan.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL MICHIGAN TOYOTA DEALER TODAY! FOR ALL TOYOTA OFFERS AND TO FIND A DEALER NEAR YOU 1. Toyota vehicles and components are built using U.S. and globally sourced parts. 2. All-New 2020 Highlander (excludes hybrid). Customers financing through Toyota Financial Services using standard rates up to 72 months qualify for the TFS Standard Rate Retail Cash, subject to approved credit. 3. New 2020 RAV4 (excludes hybrid) $500 Bonus Cash direct from Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. and must be applied to deal. 4. New 2020 RAV4 (excludes hybrid). $1,500 TOTAL APR Cash = $1,000 APR Cash + $500 Bonus Cash. Customers financing through Toyota Financial Services using standard rates up to 72 months qualify for the TFS Standard Rate Retail Cash, subject to approved credit. 5. New 2020 RAV4 LE FWD Model 4430. Lease based on net cap cost of $23,573. $500 Bonus Cash included in lease deal. Lease end purchase option $17,978.* 6. Customer Cash direct from Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. 7. New 2020 Corolla (excludes hybrid & hatchback) 1.9% APR financing for 36 months with $28.60 per $1,000 borrowed OR 1.9% APR for 48 months with $21.65 per $1,000 borrowed OR 1.9% APR for 60 months with $17.48 per $1,000 borrowed OR 3.9% APR for 72 months with $15.60 per $1,000 borrowed.** 8. New 2020 Corolla LE Model 1852. Lease based on net cap cost of $17,642. $300 Toyota Financial Services Lease Subvention Cash included in lease deal. Lease end purchase option $12,540.* 9. New 2020 Avalon (excludes Hybrid) 2.9% APR financing for 36 months with $29.04 per $1,000 borrowed OR 2.9% APR for 48 months with $22.09 per $1,000 borrowed OR 2.9% APR for 60 months with $17.92 per $1,000 borrowed OR 3.9% APR for 72 months with $15.60 per $1,000 borrowed.** 10. Qualified military personnel and household members of eligible qualifying military personal are eligible for rebates in addition to all other incentives, depending on model, through Toyota Motor Sales USA, Inc., when leased or financed through Toyota Financial Services. Must take retail delivery from select new dealer stock. The Toyota Military Rebate Program is not compatible with the Toyota College Rebate Program. See participating dealer or visit buyatoyota.com for complete details. 11. The Toyota College Rebate Program is not compatible with the Military Rebate Program. See participating dealer or visit buyatoyota.com for complete details. 12. ToyotaCare covers normal factory scheduled service for 2 years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. 24-hour roadside assistance is also included for 2 years and unlimited miles. See Toyota dealers for details and exclusions. Valid only in the continental U.S. and Alaska. * NO SECURITY DEPOSIT. Subject to approved credit through Toyota Financial Services. Not all customers will qualify – Tier I PLUS customers ONLY. Excludes state and local taxes, tags, registration and title, and insurance. License and applicable fees are extra. Other options and dealer charges extra. Your payment may vary depending on final price. Lessee may be charged for excessive wear based on Toyota Financial Services standards for normal use and for mileage in excess of 30,000 at the rate of $0.15 per mile (10K low mileage lease). $350 Disposition Fee is due at lease termination. ** Subject to approved credit through Toyota Financial Services Tier 1+ & 1 only. Not all customers will qualify for lowest rate – see dealer for terms and conditions. For 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 & 11: Must take retail delivery from new 2020 dealer stock between 3/3/20 and 3/31/20. Customer Cash, APR & Lease offers may not be combined. See participating dealer for complete details. Individual dealer prices and document fees may vary. Offers may vary by region. VEHICLE IMAGES USED FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY. Expiration for these offers is 03/31/20.