Roar Brewing Co.
Michigan Chronicle
Michigan Chronicle
Michigan Chronicle
Black Detroiters
UAW
Weigh Legacy, Future
All Black Everything:
Triple Strike Against Detroit Automakers
A Night of Elegance and Excellence at the
After Duggan’s Final State of the City
By Amber Ogden STAFF WRITER
By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan delivered his final State of the City address on March 25, highlighting a decade of progress in economic development, crime reduction, and urban revitalization. As the city’s first white mayor since the 1970s, Duggan has drawn both praise and skepticism from Black Detroiters. While he clicked through slides of past to present victories, many are left wondering if his leadership truly benefited the city’s Black majority and what’s next for a community still fighting inequality.
By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
Late Thursday night, Sept. 14, a historic moment unfolded in American labor relations as the United Auto Workers (UAW) union initiated a strike against Ford, General Motors (GM), and Stellantis. For the first time, the union took simultaneous action against all three major Detroit-based automakers. The action involves approximately 13,000 UAW members in assembly plants across Michigan, Ohio, and Missouri, who walked off their jobs after existing labor contracts expired at 11:59 p.m.
IMayor Duggan emphasized the city’s success in attracting new businesses and reducing unemployment through programs like Skills for Life. He also cited the transformation of vacant lands into manufacturing sites, leading to significant job creation. For instance, the old State Fairgrounds now hosts an Amazon Fulfillment Center employing 2,400 people, and the Detroit Assembly Complex Mack has hired 4,000 Detroiters.
n a breathtaking celebration of talent, determination, and the unyielding spirit of Black excellence, the Michigan Chronicle marked its 10th Annual 40 Under 40 event Thursday evening. This year’s soirée, drenched in the theme “All Black Everything with Gold Accents,” transcended expectations and essentially illuminated the golden gems within the true essence of Black excellence. Hosted by the charismatic duo of Andre Ash and Lynzee Mychael from Michigan Chronicle’s Finally Friday, the night was a triumph for the city of Detroit and its vibrant community of young Black professionals.
Arthur Green, a lifelong Detroit resident, highlighted Duggan’s final State of the City address as iconic; having it take place in the new location for the Hudson site downtown shows Detroit’s evolution forward.
“I believe that this is a great send-off and a great representation of the things he (Duggan) said he was going to do when he took office,” Green said.
received the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Brown’s commitment to empowering the city through fashion and entrepreneurship has left an indelible mark.
Shortly before midnight on Sept. 14, GM released a statement expressing disappointment with the strike action, despite offering what it termed an “unprecedented economic package” that included historic wage increases. Stellantis also expressed disappointment in a statement, saying the company immediately went into contingency mode to protect its operations.
“I think last night was a nice way of saying he is through with Detroit, and the city is in great hands for whoever comes in and takes over.”
From Bankruptcy to Blueprint:
The evening sparkled with a golden promise as we celebrated remarkable individuals from various walks of life. Among the honorees were the brilliant and visionary co-founders of Detroit Hives, Nicole Lindsey and Timothy Paul Jackson. Their work has not only changed the landscape of beekeeping and urban farming in Detroit but also exemplified the transformative impact Black professionals can have on their communities.
The mayor highlighted a dramatic decrease in crime rates, noting that Detroit recorded its fewest homicides last year since 1965. He attributed this success to hiring more officers, providing them with raises, and implementing Community Violence Intervention initiatives.
Greektown Had 1.4 Million Visits This Summer and
Duggan’s Final State of the City Honors Detroit’s Comeback and Calls in Community Power
Can Reparative Investment Finally
“Entrepreneur of the year – that’s a big deal,” said Brown. “It’s always an honor to be honored and it’s always a blessing to be in a room full of so many talented, accomplished, and popular people that look like me. I’m geeked. I started making and selling clothes as a kid and I always knew that I would have a business, but I never knew it would be Detroit’s brand name business, so I take a lot of pride in the fact that our business represents our city’s pride.”
By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
Taking home the Corporate Excellence Award was Dannis Mitchell, Director of Community Engagement at Barton Malow.
ness district that had been the lifeblood of the community.
“Together we have created a social, environmental, and financial impact through bees,” said Jackson. Lindsey followed that sentiment with, “It is through our local partnerships and collaborative efforts that we exist in over 28 plus locations managing the health of 4.5 million honeybees – humbly speaking our movement has inspired others locally, nationally, and even internationally to take on similar missions.”
The UAW has branded the industrial action as the “Stand-Up Strike,” focusing on specific plants within each automaker. UAW President Shawn Fain stated, “This strategy will keep the companies guessing. It will give our national negotiators maximum leverage and flexibility in bargaining. And if we need to go all out, we will. Everything is on the table.” Union leaders have also indicated that additional plants could be targeted in future waves if negotiations remain stalled.
For many Detroiters, Interstate 375, or I-375, has long been just another stretch of urban highway, a concrete artery connecting different parts of the city. To some, it’s a mere convenience; to others, it’s an unremarkable part of their daily commute. However, there’s a deeper, far more troubling story beneath the surface of this seemingly ordinary freeway—a story of pain, displacement, and the lasting impact on Black Detroiters.
Black homeowners in Detroit have seen significant benefits, gaining about $3.2 billion in wealth since 2014. Over this period, the value of homes owned by Black residents in the city has nearly doubled, skyrocketing by 94%. In 2014, these homes were valued at $3.4 billion, and by 2023, that number has jumped to $6.6 billion.
Last year’s State of the City was delivered from the heart of a neighborhood church on Dexter Avenue—a deliberate choice that centered on the people who never left. This year, Mayor Mike Duggan stood on ground with a different kind of weight: the site of the old Hudson’s department store. Once a symbol of Detroit’s peak, later a marker of its decline, and now—nearly finished—a new tower rising from the scars of the past. But before Duggan spoke, Detroit set the tone.
Detroit Hives, a pioneering organization founded by Lindsey and Jackson, harnesses the power of urban beekeeping to revitalize neighborhoods in the Motor City. Their initiative not only addresses critical issues like environmental conservation but also provides valuable education and employment opportunities to Black De-
A Black opera singer opened with “Lift
“It is so important to recognize that there are young leaders across the country, many that are born here in Detroit. I represent our city nationally and I tell people, ‘Yea I’m a D-girl I’m from the west-side of Detroit,’” Mitchell expressed. “But more importantly, I’ve been able to have experiences within an industry that not many of us, specifically women of color, have the opportunity to engage in and I’ve been the youngest person in the room, the only Black person in the room, and the only Sistah in the room, and I really had to articulate the importance of showing up, giving chances when others won’t, and being persistent.” As a trailblazing Black woman thriv ing in a predominantly male-dominated industry, her unwavering commitment to fortifying the connections between businesses and Detroit’s communities is unde
It’s a history marred by pain, injustice, and economic devastation. More than 130,000 residents, primarily Black, were forcibly displaced. Families were uprooted, generational wealth was obliterated, and a thriving community was torn asunder. The wounds inflicted by I-375 run deep, transcending the physical barrier of a freeway to penetrate the very soul of Black Detroiters.
This painful legacy can be traced back to the nation’s interstate highway program of 1956—a program that aimed to connect the country but often did so at the expense of marginalized communities. In the case of I-375, it meant carving a path through the heart of Black Detroit, reinforcing segregation, and perpetuating inequality.
“In my first State of the City Address in 2014, I asked Detroiters thinking about moving out to give us some time to show we could work together to turn our city around,” Mayor Duggan said.
By Andre Ash DIGITAL ANCHOR
Fain clarified the union’s strategy: “I want to give a major shoutout to the thousands of members who are on the picket lines right now fighting for all of us. The Stand-Up Strike is a new approach to striking. Instead of striking all plants at once, select locals will be called on to stand up and walk out on strike. This is our generation’s answer to the movement that built our union – the sit-down strikes of 1937. We told the Big 3 that Sept. 14 was the deadline and we meant it. We gave the companies our economic demands eight weeks ago and it took more than a month to get to the table.”
Detroit resident and Board member of Homeless Action Network of Detroit (HAND) Lynn Haliburton praised Duggan’s storytelling abilities throughout his address despite the heavy data.
The tale begins in what is now Lafayette Park, once known as Black Bottom—a neighborhood rooted in African-American culture and history. Named after its dark, fertile soil, Black Bottom flourished during the mid1900s, nurturing the dreams and aspirations of prominent Detroiters like Coleman Young, Joe Louis, and numerous other Detroit legends. But in the name of urban renewal in the 1950s, this vibrant neighborhood was systematically dismantled, erased from the map, and replaced by a lifeless stretch of asphalt.
Every Voice and Sing,” grounding the space in legacy and resistance. Then KEM stepped up—our sound, our soul—and sang the national anthem like only Detroit could. This wasn’t a performance. It was a call-in. A nod to the city’s cultural spine and a reminder that the people of Detroit are the reason it still stands.
All Hands On Deck to Combat Homelessness
A Holistic Approach to Providing Shelter and Support for Detroit’s Unhoused People
Homelessness continues to plague urban communities, with families and individuals grappling with the challenges of making ends meet in today’s economic climate. Whether it’s struggling to meet monthly mortgage payments or coping with soaring rental costs in a housing market marked by shockingly high prices, a variety of factors contribute to the growing issue of people becoming unhoused.
“The amount of statistics and numbers that he dropped, it still flowed as a really good story,” Haliburton said.
“Sometimes you can get lost in all of that data. But we really got to see how these things all correlated together, from
The union is pushing for a comprehensive list of demands. This
Duggan knew that. That’s why he didn’t just step out alone. His wife, sons, brothers, nieces, nephews, and even his in-laws were in the room. This was a community showing up for one of their own. This was Detroit saying, “We did this together.”
For one to aptly recognize the harm caused by such projects, it is vital to note that some of the planners and politicians behind those projects built them directly through the heart of vibrant, populated communities—oftentimes to reinforce segregation and sometimes as part of a direct effort to replace or eliminate Black neighborhoods.
Coulter, and Mark Hackel. Most notably, he saluted the City Council—reminding folks that back during bankruptcy, it felt like “Detroit vs. Everybody,” but the City Council stood on that stage with him then and stayed through every challenge since.
While the residential areas bore the brunt of this demolition, the heart of Black Bottom, its thriving business center, remained largely untouched. Restaurants, theaters, clubs, and bars—the very places that brought Detroit’s Black community together—were concentrated around Hastings Street, the epicenter of African-American culture in the city.
Duggan opened by acknowledging not just power players but the people. Members of the civilian-led Detroit Board of Police Commissioners, who serve without pay.
Housing Resource Helpline in response to the challenges that residents face in navigating the complex system of housing services. The helpline provides a single point of contact for people seeking housing assistance and connects them with the resources they need.
A nod to true community service. His cabinet, who he said stood up in every crisis, like the Southwest Detroit flooding that left 400 homes underwater. He recognized regional leaders Warren E. Evans, Dave
Meagan DunnJulie Schneider
Then, in a cruel twist of fate, Hastings Street, too, was obliterated a few years later, making way for the construction of I-375. This marked the final blow, sealing the fate of Black Bottom and signaling the beginning of the end for Paradise Valley, the Black busi-
Historically, shelters have provided a temporary respite for those in need, often serving as the first or second option after exhausting alternatives like staying with friends or family. Shelters offer a place to rest one’s head and a warm meal, albeit sometimes for extended periods. For others, being unhoused means living in cars or makeshift outdoor
DPD Chief James White Says Increased Police Presence Culled Violence area. The surge in crime and the influx of visitors to Detroit’s downtown core garnered the attention of the Detroit Police Department (DPD), catching them somewhat off guard.
But now, after decades of enduring the scars of I-375, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon. Plans have been unveiled to transform this once-divisive freeway into a vision that seeks to right the wrongs of the past while heralding a new era of inclusivity and community revitalization.
“Not a day goes by when somebody says, ‘What happens when you leave?’” Duggan said. “I want to show you why Detroit is going to be so much better.”
determination of a new generation of entrepreneurs and visionaries is reclaiming that lost legacy.
James White, Chief of Police for the Detroit Police Department, said: “We were caught somewhat flat-footed right out the gate. By design we went into the spring deployment, which is less than the mid-summer deployment, and saw we say an uptick in violence that first warm weekend.”
Chief White attributes the violence in Greektown to a combination of weather conditions and a surge in population.
He walked the room through a 12-year journey that started with bankruptcy and ended with budget surpluses. In 2013, the city declared bankruptcy. At the time, Detroit had the highest unemployment rate in the country—almost 20%. People were fleeing. Entire blocks are abandoned. By 2023, Detroit reached its lowest unemployment rate on record. Income tax revenue
Support for the helpline comes from the Gilbert Family Foundation, which has pledged $10 million over three years to fund the program. Wayne Metro Community Action Agency manages the helpline, making it accessible to all Detroit residents. This initiative simplifies access to the City’s various housing services, ensuring that residents in need can easily find assistance.
Fueled by more than $100 million from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and other partners, this ambitious project aims to create jobs, remove barriers to economic growth, and reconnect the neighborhood with the rest of Detroit. It is a step
In the heart of Paradise Valley, Blackowned businesses are not just flourishing but thriving, offering diverse services, products, and experiences that pay homage to the past while paving the way for a prosperous future. From jazz clubs to soul food restaurants, the Black Press, and art galleries to fashion boutiques, this revival is breathing life into the very essence of what once made this neighborhood a vibrant cultural epicenter. It’s a resurgence that extends beyond brick and mortar; it represents the resurgence of a spirit that refuses to be subdued.
He left a blueprint for how a city creates it. No promises were made on paper without progress being shown. 1,500 renters became homeowners by having their landlords’ delinquent taxes paid off. 12,000
Detroit City Councilman Fred Durhal III, representing District 7, where Eastern Market resides, told the Michigan Chronicle, “It’s still very early in the process, MDOT is
He explained, “ We saw numbers downtown that we have not seen, ever. People are emerging from COVID and there’s a feeling that we’re in a post-COVID era… and with the venues downtown and the reasons to come down with all the activities that are going on, we saw hundreds of more people and, in particularly, young folks, teenagers that we hadn’t seen.”
Responding swiftly to the surge in violence, DPD adjusted its deployment plans. Rather than waiting for mid-summer, they deployed officers in the spring itself to address the situation.
Black Resilience Amidst Gentrification: Reclaiming Detroit’s
By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
By Lynzee Mychael MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST
The causes of homelessness are as diverse and complex as the individuals experiencing it. In response, the City of Detroit has adopted a holistic approach to combat this issue.
but
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“Providing services and high-quality housing to persons at risk of or who are experiencing homelessness is a key priority of the City of Detroit, said Julie Schneider, Director of Detroit’s Housing and Revitalization Department.
What a Federal Government Shutdown Could Mean for Detroiters?
“This means focusing on building the pipeline of supportive housing and coordinating with the Continuum of Care on the delivery of critical resources such as emergency shelter, rapid rehousing, and diversion and prevention programs. It also means preserving and expanding affordable housing options for Detroiters of all incomes and improving housing stability though comprehensive service offerings available through the Detroit Housing Resource HelpLine and Detroit Housing Services Division within HRD.”
In May 2023, the City of Detroit launched the Detroit
From the days of the Great Migration when thousands of Black families flocked to Detroit in search of jobs and a better life, to the pivotal role they played in the city’s cultural and musical heritage, Black Detroiters have left an indelible mark on the city. However, in recent years, Detroit has experienced significant gentrification, which has raised concerns about the displacement of long-standing Black residents. Similar to a setting sun, there’s a rising spirit, and Black Detroiters are reclaiming their place in the city, despite the challenges posed by gentrification.
“The city and its partners offer a lot of great services to help Detroiters with their housing needs, but they don’t mean much if people don’t know how to access them,” said Mayor Mike Duggan. “Thanks to the efforts of our partners and the generous support of the Gilbert Family Foundation, we now have a simple process to guide residents to the right housing resource and a growing number of programs to help them.”
different. Families across the city are bracing for the fallout of an executive order that could shake the foundation of public education as we know it. An executive order signed last Thursday by former President Donald Trump aims to move toward shutting down the U.S. Department of Education. That same department oversees student loans, investigates civil rights complaints, and ensures funding for students with disabilities. Yet Trump called it unnecessary and claimed it’s “doing us no good.” What does that mean for Michigan’s Black students, who are already learning under strained conditions? The truth is, this executive order might not close the department tomorrow, but it sends a signal that resonates far beyond
The Gilbert Family Foundation’s broader commitment involves pledging $500 million to support projects across Detroit over the next ten years, with housing initiatives being a significant part of their contribution.
Notably, Detroit has witnessed a consistent decrease in recent years, with the number of unhoused residents steadi ly declining. In 2019, approximately 7,847 people were unhoused and entered the City’s community response system. In 2021, about 5,687 people experienced homelessness.
The rise in visitors to the Greektown area is evident in data from Placer.ai, a location analytics company specializing in visit trends and demographic insights through geolocation-enabled mobile devices. From May 1-Aug. 27, 2022, there were 1.3 million visits and 655,000 visitors to Greektown, according to Placer.ai. In the same period this year, these numbers increased to 1.4 million visits and 670,000 visitors.
As Detroit’s downtown area continues to attract both residents and visitors, the police department has implemented various enforcement measures to manage the increased population. Notably, metal detectors have been strategically placed throughout Greektown to deter the illegal carrying of firearms.
lution along party lines endorsing the department’s elimination. State Representative Tim Kelly of Saginaw Township, one of the resolution’s chief sponsors, said, “Far too few kids are receiving the education they deserve, and big government at the federal level has only undermined students, parents and teachers.” He continued, “Throughout its 45-year history, the U.S. Department of Education has been part of the problem, not the solution.”
because of discrimination, but they were also coming because Black people was doing some stuff. When did Black people start doing things in the city? They started doing things in this area in the 1800’s. In the 1800’s the major thing that they were doing in Detroit is they were the
According to the City of Detroit, since the start of the fiscal year 2019 to 2021, Detroit saw a 28% decrease in the
Capitol Hill. It’s a message aimed directly at the backbone of our public education system—and the message is clear: dismantle and redistribute. The order directs Education Secretary Linda McMahon to start evaluating how to reduce the department’s mission. Trump cannot close it without Congress, but that doesn’t mean damage can’t be done. The department’s current $268 bil-
During the Great Migration, thousands of Black families from the South came to Detroit in search of jobs in the booming automobile industry. Despite facing discrimination and segregation, they built vibrant communities on the city’s east and west sides. Over time, these neighborhoods became centers of Black culture and entrepreneurship. According to Historian Jamon Jordon Black resilience in the city has roots
lion budget covers responsibilities that matter deeply in cities like Detroit. This includes programs that protect the rights of disabled children, deliver federal student loans, and offer support for students living in poverty.
“We have strategically placed them at key points, “ Chief White explains. It has been a deterrent for some, and some have tested it. If you are legally carrying a weapon and carrying a CPL, have a great day. If you’re
Michigan House Republicans wasted no time showing their support. Just hours after Trump’s announcement, they passed a reso-
course
That sentiment landed like a slap in the face to educators and parents who see the department as one of the few resources left offering consistency. Democratic lawmakers, including Representative Regina Weiss of Oak Park, criticized the move, saying, “This resolution is focused on destroying the very systems that support our kids, teachers and our higher education across the state.” Those systems include criti-
cased the diversity of talent within our community. From aries of her field, to math wizards like Donna Laster, who
Mayor Duggan during his final State of the City Address at the Hudson Site in Downtown Detroit, photos by Monica Morgan
ichigan Chronicle
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what the Supreme Court will rule in the upcoming days. Despite the decision, advocates on both sides of the argument are willing to continue their pursuits.
Detroit when it comes to building affordable housing in all neighborhoods. From Corktown to Brush Park to East Warren and Clark Park, development is no longer just downtown.
“The thing that I’m most proud of is all the projects that’s happening in the neighborhoods,” said David Howell, vice president of real estate services for the Detroit Economic Growth Corps. “Duggan talked about the discounts and the tax abatements. In 2023 and 24, 55% of those tax abatements were granted to developers who did projects outside of downtown. What does that mean? That means, this administration, along with like DEGC and the state are driving development in the neighborhoods. It’s just not happening downtown. It’s happening in all of the neighborhoods, all across the city, and black folks are getting their fair share.”
to have representalegislacollection and criminal jusrecomcollection analywith the AttorMichigan Law Standards Association Prosecutors stakeholders collect and strategically. warHouse Operations hearother would ban of noknock urging the pass and Whitmer to the leg-
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cations, overturning Roe v. Wade would impact several systems across the spectrum. With the potential to drive both foster and adoption numbers upward, a ban on abortions could leave many women to choose a less safe route restoring ‘back alley’ and illegal abortion practices, including self-abortions. Moreover, African American women and women of color, who already have a long-storied history with access and inclusion in medi-
Bankruptcy to Blueprint
Detroiters received help staying in their homes. That’s not hypothetical—it’s housing justice. He credited Dan Gilbert and the Gilbert Family Foundation for investing in programs to make that possible. “God bless you,” Duggan said, thanking Gilbert personally. Despite Gilbert’s serious health challenges over the past five years, his continued commitment to Detroit has remained visible, consistent, and undeniable.
The audience heard about the homes. The neighborhoods. The lives. 15,000 homes sold through the Detroit Land Bank Authority. 12,000 have already been rehabbed. Abandoned homes no longer define the blocks. Erica Ward Gerson and city council president Mary Sheffield helped sponsor beautification efforts. These weren’t quick fixes—this was deep, lasting investment. The Joe Louis Greenway, expected to complete a full loop across the city by 2027, represents what this city’s resurgence means, block by block.
islature adopts it.
Increase school funding: Statutory changes to increase the School Aid Fund revenue by at least $3.6 billion and establish a permanent weighted funding formula based on student and community needs and universal preschool (0-3).
Sylvester Hester’s name was lifted up, too—a symbol of Detroit’s Black leadership in the auto resurgence. FlexN-Gate became the first new auto plant in over two decades. Huntington Bank, the Torgow family, the Ilitch family, and Ford were acknowledged for their role in revitalizing Detroit’s economic base. Duggan emphasized that no developer ever got a check from the city. Instead, Detroit offered tax discounts only after projects produced new revenue. The approach fueled growth without giving away the city’s wallet. Detroit didn’t just come back—it began to grow again. For the first time since 1957, population numbers ticked up. Something that had seemed impossible just a year ago. Duggan marked it as a turning point. “This isn’t new people coming to town getting the benefit,” he said. “This is the people who stuck and stayed.”
Reject censorship in history instruction: Encouraging Gov. Whitmer to ensure the goal for Michigan schools should be history instruction that is presented by professionals with the subject matter expertise, pedagogical skills, and judgment necessary to present complex information to students that are grounded in provable facts and add to the understanding of modern-day America.
Increase mental health supports for the Black community: Recommending Michigan set a goal of increasing the number of Black mental health service providers by 20% each year over five years.
Violence prevention has been another front line of change. Last year, Detroit recorded the fewest homicides since 1965. A 38% drop in homicides, a 53% drop in shootings, and a 56% drop in carjackings when comparing 2025 to 2023. Duggan shouted out to Fred Durhal for assembling the “ShotStoppers” program, which is now drawing national attention. Detroit invested $10 million into five community groups focused on preventing violence
people believe that they need to for themselves and others to live better lives.”
From page A-1
against their will. Being able to decide and control if, when and how to become a parent is central to building and living a healthy, happy life,” said Vasquez Giroux.
before it started. Still, $75 million in public safety funding sits tied up in Lansing, waiting for state lawmakers to release it.
“Overturning Roe v. Wade would be a terrible break with nearly 50 years of judicial precedent and – more importantly – a blow against individual freedom. It is my hope that the majority of justices will reject the findings of this draft. If that is not the case, we need to stand with Senate Majority Leader Schumer and Gov. Whitmer in support of their efforts to preserve the right to reproductive freedom,” said Chair Alisha Bell, on behalf of the Wayne County Commission.
Homelessness didn’t go unmentioned, either. From a $6 million budget in 2023 to $14.5 million in 2025, Detroit doubled down. 220 immediate shelter beds added. Outreach teams expanded, now working 24/6 to find and help anyone who wants shelter. Duggan acknowledged Councilwoman Mary Waters for leading that charge.
Beyond the scope of pro-choice versus prolife, the fight for reproductive choice is one of freedom. As Michigan officials work to ensure each woman who finds herself in the position to choose has access to care without the threat of legal action, many wonder
Workforce development got shine. Over 2,500 Detroiters secured jobs through Detroit at Work and JumpStart. JP Morgan Chase hired 150 workers, each making over $24 an hour. Duggan brought up a young Black man who benefited from Detroit at Work, placing his story front and center. It’s not a token—just real proof that the city’s investment in Black futures is taking root.
The health committee recommends reviewing state licensure policies to address the barriers that Black psychologists face in obtaining licensure in Michigan.
On the riverfront, Duggan praised the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy. AB Ford Park, Ralph Wilson Park, and West Riverfront Park—are all expected to open before the year’s end. He made it plain: “The riverfront belongs to the people.” Luxury condos won’t swallow the shoreline. It’s about recreation, access, and legacy.
Ensure equitable distribution of state health funds: Ensure all Michigan communities with a significant Black population receive adequate funds to address mental health issues.
Duggan addressed two of Detroit’s most stubborn properties—the Renaissance Center and the Uniroyal site.
Protecting Black voting rights: Urge state officials to remain vigilant in the fight against schemes to disenfranchise Michiganders of color.
He said GM delayed moving into the RenCen by 25 years and needed just 200,000 square feet, not millions. Still, Duggan urged Mary Barra not to sell the property. Developers were approached, but the cost of converting the towers—with 39 stories of concrete and steel—was too high. Then Bedrock and Gilbert stepped in. The new vision? Retain three towers, build 400 apartments, create a hotel and office space, and build a quarter-mile public promenade—“a Navy Pier for Detroit.” No upfront public cash. Only discounted taxes on the new value generated after development. That’s how Detroit does it now.
“BLAC members have worked hard to identify the needs of the Black community and we feel these recommendations will provide a solid first step towards breaking down barriers in education, community safety, health and business,” said BLAC Co-Chair Dr. Donna L. Bell.
He didn’t forget the faith community either. Rev. Wendell Anthony, Bishop Charles Ellis III, Edgar Vann— all recognized. Faith leaders who held the city steady through storms.
Executive Order
“The strong collaboration between Mayor Duggan and City Council has lifted Detroit from being one of our nation’s poorest cities just a generation ago to one where home values have surged more than 260%,” said Councilman Fred Durhal. “Our work is just starting, and we’re going to redouble our efforts to support residents, families and small businesses who choose to call Detroit home, by helping them grow generational wealth in neighborhoods across our city.”
As for what’s ahead, Duggan laid out the vision. University of Michigan’s Innovation Center. The $2 billion Henry Ford Hospital campus. Vinnie Johnson heading up development at the old State Fairgrounds. The Hudson’s site rising again. Fisher Body Plant 21 transforming. Duggan said Detroit has enough momentum, construction, and investment to carry growth through the next five years— and then some.
He pointed to major events as markers of national visibility: 775,000 visitors came to the NFL Draft with no incidents. The NCAA Final Four returns to Detroit in 2027. “Nothing stops Detroit.”
Before he closed, he offered advice to the next mayor—continue collaborating with City Council and with regional partners. That’s what made the comeback possible.
Joe Tate, who represents House District 9 in the Michigan State Legislature, reflected on the address by emphasizing its deeper meaning. “Duggan’s address showed where Detroit came from—post-bankruptcy and even before that. It was a clear reflection of the progress we’ve made,” he said. “It also showed that Detroiters are all contributing, but we’re not done. There’s still work ahead. We should carry a sense of optimism when we think about how far we’ve come and what we’ve accomplished together.”
When asked about his own political future, Tate shared that now wasn’t the right time for him to step into a mayoral role. “The next leader needs to be innovative and understand the power of collaboration,” he said. He closed his thoughts with a note of gratitude for Duggan’s leadership, thanking him for his years of service to the city.
State of the City
reductions in crime to bringing new businesses in and homeowners in.”
Haliburton emphasized that Duggan should take a lot of credit for the city’s progress, but during the address wanted to see more credit given to entities and organizations outside of just the City of Detroit that are helping to provide direct services to the homeless community, especially following the recent death of two minor children in the Greektown parking structure in February of this year.
“This is not just a city of Detroit thing,” Haliburton said.
“We’re the organization that manages the hotline that people call when people need homeless services. The city has been an amazing partner in creating and streamlining the funding he mentioned. However, sometimes, some organizations end up taking a backseat to the city. No one really understands HAND or how involved HAND. So then it makes our organization completely dependent upon the federal and state and city funding that we’re getting, because we’re not getting any of the private funds, because people don’t know that we’re doing this work.”
The mayor addressed Detroit’s ongoing battle against blight and vacant homes. This initiative aims to continue to rejuvenate neighborhoods and provide housing opportunities for residents.
“By the end of the year, we’ll be down to 1,000 vacant houses owned by the land bank,” Duggan said.
However, some community members remain cautious about the pace and focus of redevelopment. The proposed changes to the Renaissance Center, including plans to tear down two of the original five towers to create a new family and entertainment park along the Detroit River, have elicited mixed reactions, many of those emotions heard during City Council meetings, during public comment.
Mayor Duggan’s last speech marks an important moment for Detroit, capturing a time of big changes and paving the way for the city’s future leaders. While many people have praised his work, it’s clear that the Black community has mixed feelings. This highlights the challenges of running a city and shows how important it is to ensure that everyone, regardless of what neighborhood they live in, feels included in the progress we make together as a city.
Today, on Mayor Duggan’s social media feeds, Facebook and Instagram, he posted, “Despite the haters and the naysayers, the fact still remains….Nothing Stops Detroit. #SOTC2025 #MikeDuggan.”
cal support for children experiencing homelessness, English learners, and low-income families—all of whom live in communities where Black and brown students are often overrepresented and underserved.
“Chancellor Ivery is a true transformational leader and an outstanding CEO, who is more than worthy of the CEO of the Year Award he just received, “ said Prof. James C. Mays, who teaches entrepreneurship and supply chain management at WCCCD’s Corporate College. “In his 27 years at WCCCD, Dr. Ivery has elevated WCCCD to become nationally recognized for excellence and innovation and preparing our students professionally and personally to do great things in the world.”
Over the last six years, 92 housing projects built 6,000 units across the city. $1.3 billion worth of investment. Duggan said no other city has led like
BLAC will hold a virtual town hall meeting to discuss its policy recommendations on Thursday, May 12 at 4 p.m. Join BLAC and a virtual audience in discussing the recommendations to support the Black community.
Detroit Public Schools Community District Superintendent Nikolai Vitti made it plain: cuts like these will have consequences. Vitti said funding reductions would hit free lunch programs and special education hardest—both essential to Black families trying to make ends meet. That’s not hypothetical. That’s the food our babies rely on, the services that ensure students with disabilities receive the support they’re owed.
The numbers speak volumes. Michigan is expected to receive $535 million in federal Title I funds for fiscal year 2025, based on how many students live in poverty. That’s money directly supporting schools that serve our most vulnerable youth. Additionally, the state budget includes $450 million in federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) funds, providing vital resources for children who often get pushed to the margins.
This wasn’t just Duggan taking a victory lap. This was a final roll call for the people, the policies, and the purpose that pushed Detroit through the fire. Every name, every number, every project and policy—laid out plainly. No frills. Just facts. Just Detroit.
ized to target the very programs created to uplift Black students, LGBTQ+ youth, and other marginalized communities.
The executive order requires McMahon to ensure that funding aligns with “administration policy,” and that means institutions could lose funding for continuing to use what the administration deems “illegal discrimination obscured under the label ‘diversity, equity, and inclusion.’” That language isn’t neutral. It’s coded. And it places programs designed to acknowledge racial disparities directly under attack.
BLAC is housed in the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. Members represent many professional backgrounds, including economics, law, public safety, health and wellness, arts and culture and media. They leverage their experiences and expertise to make recommendations to the governor on critical issues affecting the Black community.
To learn more about BLAC and this upcoming event, visit www.michigan.gov/BLAC.
None of this exists in a vacuum. The department also manages federal student aid—including Pell Grants and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)— which many Detroiters depend on to pursue higher education. Though Trump promised Thursday to preserve Pell Grants and other aid, it’s unclear how future policies under this order would operate. The executive order calls for eliminating programs that “promote gender ideology” and “diversity, equity, and inclusion,” terms often weapon-
Late last month, the Department of Education launched an “End DEI” online portal encouraging parents to report what they consider discriminatory practices. That, paired with recent efforts to prioritize school choice and diminish support for public schools, reveals a broader strategy: redirect funds, not necessarily cut them. That redirection could lead to block grants sent to states with fewer regulations, opening the door for private schools and homeschool programs to claim a larger piece of the federal pie.
Michigan currently has a constitutional amendment barring public dollars from being used for private school tuition. That could change depending on how federal policies influence state decisions. McMahon’s recent memo to education department employees made her goals clear: promote school choice and evaluate programs based on alignment with administration priorities. That’s a thinly veiled push to defund public education under the banner of “freedom.”
Federal education mandates have historically helped push the needle on issues states once ignored—desegregation, civil rights enforcement, and disability inclusion
As Detroit gets ready to choose its next mayor, conversations about leadership and representation are heating up. The city is on the verge of a new era, and the voices of Black Detroit residents will be key in guiding the city toward a fairer and more successful future.
among them. Moving those core functions to other federal agencies might look bureaucratic on paper, but in practice, it weakens accountability. Who ensures children in Detroit, Flint, Benton Harbor, or Inkster get what they need if oversight disappears?
Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall cheered the move, saying, “We can work together as a state to set these curriculums in a way that will work much better than what we’re seeing.” Hall said, “We shouldn’t want a great federal bureaucracy that we don’t have access to to make these decisions for us.” Yet access to education should never depend on ZIP code or local politics. That’s the entire point of federal standards: to protect students from inequality baked into regional governance.
The broader concern is whether these executive orders hold legal weight or are being used to push an ideological agenda. Many of Trump’s past executive actions have faced legal challenges—and this one likely will, too. But even proposals that don’t become law can shift policy and perception. They create a chilling effect. They invite states to rethink their commitments. They give school boards permission to roll back protections under the guise of local control.
Higher education is at risk as well. The Department of Education funds critical research at public universities, including institutions like Wayne State University and the University of Michigan. Recent layoffs in federal grant management departments raise questions about whether future research funds will be delayed or cut altogether. The ripple effect touches every corner of our state, from first-grade reading assessments to doctoral dissertations.
Loan forgiveness programs also remain in the crosshairs. Trump’s order asks Mc-
Mahon to revise rules so that borrowers who work at organizations with a “substantial illegal purpose” become ineligible for public service loan forgiveness. That’s a vague statement that leaves room for political interpretation—especially if advocacy groups or reproductive health clinics are targeted.
Michigan’s scholarships and financial aid programs often align with federal systems. Any shake-up at the national level puts those state programs in jeopardy. The pressure lands squarely on working-class families—many of whom are Black—trying to break generational cycles through education. The system already requires a roadmap and a miracle just to access the funds. More bureaucracy only creates more barriers. At its core, this executive order challenges the very definition of public education. Who it serves. What it stands for. Who gets to shape it. That’s not just political rhetoric—that’s policy that shapes lives.
Detroit knows what it looks like when systems are stripped down. We’ve seen emergency managers override local control. We’ve watched schools close, funding shrink, and students left behind. And now, another wave of erasure is headed our way—under the banner of reform.
Educators, parents, students, and community members will need to remain vigilant. Every policy proposal, every funding shift, every bureaucratic memo should be met with questions, clarity, and collective response. Detroit doesn’t have the luxury of watching this from the sidelines. Our students, our schools, and our future sit at the center of this national experiment.
This is more than an executive order. This is a call to action.
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Roots.
LEAD Program Ends at University of Michigan, Leaving Legacy of Diversity Scholarships Under Threat
By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
A dozen years ago, young Black and Brown high school seniors across Michigan opened their University of Michigan acceptance letters with pride in their hearts and the promise of financial relief. For nearly 900 students, that promise had a name— LEAD. It was more than a scholarship program; it was a direct response to a system that shut the door on Affirmative Action and dared to say diversity still mattered. That door has now been slammed shut once again.
The University of Michigan’s LEAD Scholars program is no longer. It ended last week with a short statement and no press conference. “The Alumni Association of the University of Michigan is discontinuing the LEAD Scholars program, effective immediately,” read a notice posted to the Association’s website. “This decision is necessary to comply with all applicable laws.”
The decision didn’t come out of nowhere. Political tides have been shifting, and the pressure on higher education institutions to abandon programs
aimed at equity has been mounting. But for those familiar with Michigan’s long fight for racial justice in education, the abruptness of this announcement struck a nerve. The LEAD program was birthed out of a necessity—a way to bridge a gap created when Michigan voters banned Affirmative Action policies in 2006. That statewide decision, rooted in Proposal 2, stripped public institutions like the University of Michigan of the tools they once used to foster racial diversity.
That didn’t stop the community from stepping in.
The Alumni Association, though technically separate from the university as an independent nonprofit, created LEAD in 2008. It was a direct effort to continue recruiting and retaining underrepresented racial and ethnic minority students on merit-based scholarships. For years, it stood as a symbol of resistance—a way to support students who otherwise would be overlooked in a post-affirmative Action world. Since its launch, LEAD has supported around 900 students, helping to maintain some semblance of diversity at one of the state’s most elite institutions.
That legacy now sits in limbo.
For current LEAD scholars, the Association has assured them their scholarships will not be affected this academic year. “The Alumni Association will work with current LEAD Scholars, making them aware of other available financial options and opportunities so they can continue their studies,” the statement read. But there was no mention of what happens after that, no roadmap for future students, and no replacement program in sight.
This silence echoes louder than any statement.
Decisions like this don’t happen in a vacuum. The announcement didn’t name the source of legal pressure explicitly, but the timing is difficult to ignore.
See LEAD PROGRAM Page A-4
By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
Detroit has never waited for permission to make history. This city moves through struggle with grit, through growth with grace, and through policy with purpose when community holds the mic. For the first time in Detroit’s timeline, a space has been carved out solely for women to lead, to strategize, and to influence decision-making at the highest level of city government. That space now lives within the newly formed Detroit Women’s Commission—a nine-member advisory body created by mayoral appointment, standing as a direct response to generations of unaddressed disparities and the resilient demands of Detroit’s women.
This is not symbolic. This is structure.
The Detroit Women’s Commission will meet monthly to confront and address critical issues directly impacting the socioeconomic lives of women across the city. That includes everything from the pay gap to reproductive access, housing instability to public safety, maternal mortality to mental health—each issue made worse by disinvestment and policy neglect, especially for Black women. This commission is positioned to not only listen, but to act. It will develop methods and strategies rooted in lived experiences, research, and collaboration. The purpose is to be proactive—not reactive—to the perils many Detroit women face.
“In 2023, I introduced the resolution to establish the Detroit Women’s Commission because women are the backbone of
Black Families Are Being Shut Out of Homeownership. Here’s Why It Matters Now More Than Ever
By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
A home isn’t just four walls. It’s history. It’s legacy. It’s the front porch where elders sit and the kitchen table where families plan for the future. For many Black families in Michigan, that future is being locked behind doors they still can’t access—even when they’ve done everything right.
The National Association of Realtors just released its 2025 Snapshot of Race and Home Buying in America report. What it shows isn’t new—but it is urgent. Black homeownership in Michigan trails behind white homeownership by 31 percentage points. That’s one of the largest gaps in the country. And while some call it a housing issue, what it reflects is deeper: a pattern of exclusion that keeps repeating itself.
The numbers don’t lie. Black families in Michigan are at a 48% homeownership rate. White families hold 79%. Latinx families come in at 63%, Asian families at 65%. This isn’t about a lack of interest or ambition—it’s about access, affordability, and outdated systems that continue to block the way.
Mortgage denial rates remain disproportionately high for Black and Latinx applicants. This isn’t just a question of credit scores. This is about how banks, underwriters, and appraisers still use standards that haven’t caught up to equity. The report shows that demographic trends—like age—and access to credit are key influences in who gets to own. However, those factors are tied to a long history of policies that favored some communities over others.
Prices across Michigan are climbing faster than wages. In February 2025, home sales were down 5.3% compared to last year, yet the median price jumped by 6%. Go back to 2009, when the average purchase price for a Michigan home was $100,000. Today, that
number hovers around $300,000. That means homes are three times more expensive, but incomes haven’t tripled. So, when folks talk about building generational wealth through real estate, many Black families are still trying to get in the front door.
The report also lays bare who’s buying. The majority of homebuyers identify as white or Caucasian. Only 7% identify as Black or African American. Latinx buyers make up 6%, Asian and Pacific Islander buyers at 4%. These numbers aren’t just demographics— they’re proof of how systems continue to overlook the very people who have built and shaped these communities.
There is one shift worth noting. First-time homebuyers are more likely to be from non-white groups. Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist and vice president at the National Association of Realtors, made the point clear: “NonWhite home buyers are more likely to be first-time buyers, underscoring the importance of changing demographics and the age of local populations, which will increase non-White homeownership over time.”
That potential matters. But potential doesn’t pay closing costs. And potential won’t fight appraisal bias or remove red tape. The path forward requires more than data. It requires will.
Elevated mortgage rates aren’t helping either. They hit first-time buyers the hardest. For Black families—especially those carrying student loan debt or dealing with inflation on every other front—those higher interest rates become one more reason they’re told “not yet” or “not approved.”
Still, there are bright spots worth lifting up. In Detroit, Black homeowners have seen a meaningful rise in wealth tied to their homes. A study by the University of Michigan’s Poverty Solutions found that from 2014 to 2023, the net value of owner-occupied homes in the
our communities, yet our voices have often been overlooked in policy decisions that directly impact our lives,” said councilwoman Angela Whitfield Calloway, the driving force behind this movement. “This commission ensures that our perspectives, needs, and contributions are at the forefront of Detroit’s policymaking.”
"The Detroit Women’s Commission is a response to alarming statistics: Detroit's maternal mortality rate reached 32.9 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2021, up from 23.8 in 2020 and 20.1 in 2019,” said Calloway. “Additionally, reports indicate a significant increase in domestic violence incidents in our city. While both Wayne County and the state of Michigan have women's commissions, I believed establishing one in Detroit was crucial to address our city's unique challenges and ensure every woman has the opportunity to thrive."
Deputy Mayor Melia Howard, made it plain: “ The Women’s Commission was established to ensure that the voices of women in Detroit are heard, and that policies and initiatives address the challenges they face. From advocating for economic opportunities to improving access to healthcare, education, and safety, our mission is to create lasting change that uplift all women in our community.”
That’s not an abstract mission. That’s a community agenda, and it’s long overdue. Detroit is nearly 80 percent Black. Women anchor that percentage. They run the homes, the businesses, the faith spaces, and the movements. Yet those same women, especially Black women, have been statistically underrepresented when it comes to shaping legislation or sitting at city government tables. What the Women’s Commission signals is a shift—policy craft-
city rose by $4.7 billion—a 112% increase. Black homeowners accounted for 75% of that growth. Their collective home values jumped from $3.4 billion in 2014 to $6.6 billion in 2023. That kind of growth is no accident. It reflects what happens when Black Detroiters invest in their neighborhoods, hold the line during hard times, and stay rooted even when pushed out of the conversation.
Single women are also changing the game. In 2024, 20% of homebuyers were single women. Only 8% were single men. That matters, especially in Black communities where Black women often lead households and make key financial decisions. These women aren’t waiting for a system to catch up— they’re making moves anyway. However, even their progress comes with barriers when the system wasn’t designed for them to win.
Programs are out there. The Michigan State Housing Development Authority offers down payment assistance for first-generation homebuyers. They also provide housing counseling to help folks understand the risks and responsibilities of ownership. These resources are important. They help people step into homeownership with clarity and confidence. However, the programs are limited by eligibility requirements and often miss the communities that need them most.
There’s also movement at the local level. Some counties are stepping up to offer down payment support. Some employers now provide housing assistance to help workers live near where they work. These are steps in the right direction. But patchwork solutions don’t address the full picture. Families don’t just need one-time help—they need consistent pathways to ownership and
ed through participation, not paternalism. Women in Detroit are disproportionately impacted by poverty. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 data, nearly 38 percent of women-led households in Detroit live below the poverty line, compared to 19 percent nationwide. The numbers are worse for Black women. That’s not coincidence; that’s structure. Wage inequality, limited access to affordable childcare, transportation insecurity, and gaps in healthcare access continue to push women further from equity.
This Commission comes at a time when Roe v. Wade has been overturned, maternal health disparities remain highest for Black women in Michigan, and economic recovery continues to lag for low-income families in urban communities. Detroit’s women are navigating all of it—and they’ve needed a formal seat at the policy table for decades.
When Deputy Mayor Melia Howard speaks about “improving access to healthcare, education, and safety,” she’s naming the systemic gaps most visible on the city’s East and West Sides. These are not hypothetical gaps. These are real-world conditions that make survival harder and progress slower for Black women raising families, running nonprofits, and juggling multiple jobs just to stay afloat. By design, the Women’s Commission will be made up of diverse voices—women with varied experiences, neighborhoods, professions, and political orientations. The
Women’s Commission
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fact that it is a mayoral commission ensures direct access to executive policy-making, but the monthly structure gives it consistent space for evaluation and accountability. It’s not enough to write reports. The Commission must shape action.
Too often, commissions exist on paper but not in practice. This one has a mandate to not only evaluate issues but also to “create impactful methodologies and strategies that could assist incoming identified perils affecting the women in our community.” That type of forward-thinking, community-rooted work is how structural change begins. It’s policy from the inside, informed by pressure from the outside.
This is about breaking cycles—public ones and private ones. When you walk through neighborhoods like Dexter-Linwood, Jefferson-Chalmers, or Brightmoor, you see mothers doing the impossible every day with little support from the city. Access to basic healthcare options is limited. Safe public transportation is unpredictable. Violence, both intimate and systemic, lingers in too many homes and blocks. A commission that looks these conditions in the face and brings community-informed policy solutions to the forefront? That’s not decoration. That’s Detroit’s next chapter being written by women who live what they lead.
The Detroit Women’s Commission doesn’t represent a special interest group. It represents the majority—because women are the backbone of this city’s economy, education system, community health, and social safety net. This commission will hold space for stories often ignored. It will quantify the challenges that get dismissed as individual rather than structural. It will advocate with power and precision.
There’s a reason Detroit had to wait this long for a Women’s Commission. Systems aren’t built to prioritize the oppressed. They’re built to maintain control. Creating this commission required courage from inside City Hall, but it also required years of advocacy from community organizers, public health workers, educators, and everyday women who refused to be left out of the narrative.
When Deputy Mayor Howard states that the Commission’s mission is to “create lasting change that uplift all women in our community,” that “all” matters. It includes trans women, disabled women, immigrant women, returning citizens, survivors, single mothers, students, entrepreneurs, and elders. That type of inclusion must remain at the core of the Commission’s work.
Detroit can’t afford a Commission that only talks— it needs one that listens, builds, and demands. That’s what this moment is. The Women’s Commission is not a favor. It’s not an experiment. It’s a necessity.
The women who will sit on this Commission will carry the responsibility of not only representing the city’s present but also forecasting its future. Their task is to design a Detroit where women don’t have to choose between safety and shelter, or between health and survival. Their job is to push policy that reflects the reality of being a woman in a post-industrial Black city—where history runs deep, and healing is urgent.
This Commission must serve as a blueprint for other cities. It must be resourced, protected, and elevated— not only by the administration that formed it but by the people it was formed to serve. Detroit’s women have always been powerful. Now, that power has infrastructure. And Detroit? It moves differently when women lead.
for racial equity.
From page A-3
President Donald Trump’s administration has taken a vocal stance against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives at colleges and universities across the country. The University of Michigan has not been spared. Trump has consistently used federal power and public rhetoric to target institutions that he and his administration believe are “biased” toward promoting diversity. The LEAD program may have been next on that list.
Rather than waiting for a legal battle, the Alumni Association made a calculated move—remove the program before becoming a target. However, this kind of self-censorship has consequences, especially for students who are left behind.
Detroit knows this fight too well. Our students have always had to battle for access—access to books, access to safe schools, access to clean water, access to opportunity. Programs like LEAD didn’t solve everything, but they acknowledged that inequality exists. They sent a message to Black and Brown youth across Michigan that they were seen, they were worthy, and they had a place at one of the top public universities in the country.
Now, that message is being rewritten.
There’s a long-standing history of institutions shifting responsibility when equity becomes inconvenient. What began as a bold declaration to support underrepresented communities has now become another casualty of political fear. The LEAD program was never framed as race-based in the way courts could challenge directly—it was merit-based. But even that couldn’t shield it from the political landscape that has grown increasingly hostile to anything resembling support
LEAD Program Homeownership
From page A-3
wealth building.
The legacy of housing discrimination doesn’t disappear with a single policy. Decades of redlining, contract buying, disinvestment, and foreclosure targeting have created a landscape where Black homeownership requires navigating a maze of obstacles that others never face. When those realities aren’t acknowledged in housing solutions, the gap doesn’t close—it deepens.
So, what comes next?
The responsibility doesn’t fall on
Programs that once filled the void Affirmative Action left behind are now under attack from a different angle.
The cancellation of LEAD raises larger questions. How do universities uphold diversity without the necessary tools? How do students from historically marginalized communities trust institutions that fold under pressure? How long do communities have to build their own bridges only to watch them be dismantled?
These aren’t theoretical questions for Black families in Michigan. These are questions grounded in reality, in the daily decisions of students trying to determine if a school like the University of Michigan still welcomes them. What does merit mean in a system that denies how structural racism has shaped access to education in the first place?
It’s not lost on anyone paying attention that the people most affected by this decision weren’t consulted. The statement came without warning, without engagement from alumni who supported LEAD or students who benefited from it. That silence reinforces an old narrative—that decisions about our futures are often made without our voices in the room.
As a community, there is work ahead. If institutions will no longer champion our students, then that responsibility returns home. Churches, foundations, alumni networks, and community leaders have stepped up before—and they may have to again. That doesn’t mean institutions like the University of Michigan get a pass. This moment demands accountability. The people who poured into LEAD, mentored scholars, raised funds, and advocated for equitable education deserve more than a quiet closure.
There’s a broader truth here that needs repeating. Education equity cannot be sustained on the backs of
Black families to “do more” or “wait their turn.” The responsibility sits with decision-makers, lenders, realtors, and policymakers. Real accountability looks like revising lending criteria that disproportionately reject Black applicants. It looks like investing in housing programs that don’t just offer access—but ensure equity.
Communities must stay loud. Neighborhood leaders, faith-based organizations, and housing justice groups—these are the voices that must continue to push for fair housing laws, transparent lending practices, and culturally rooted financial education. Ownership should never be a luxury for the few. It should be a right for
one or two programs. It requires systemic commitment. It requires policies that don’t fold under political scrutiny. It requires leadership that isn’t afraid to stand in the gap when students need them most.
This story doesn’t end with LEAD’s cancellation. It only shifts the responsibility—and the questions we must ask going forward. What will the University of Michigan do now to ensure its student body reflects the full diversity of this state? How will other institutions respond when their DEI initiatives come under fire?
This decision may not stop with LEAD. Other scholarships, mentorship programs, and community-driven initiatives could be next if the pattern continues.
The 900 students who came through the LEAD program carry more than a scholarship—they carry a legacy. Their degrees represent resilience in a system that was never designed with them in mind. As the Alumni Association moves forward, it must reconcile how it will support students of color without programs like LEAD.
Michigan’s Black community has always known how to build, how to rise, and how to reclaim what was taken. But that doesn’t make the loss any less heavy.
Education access is not a privilege. For too many of our children, it’s the last hope. And every program that gets stripped away chips at that hope.
This moment demands more than a press release. It demands that we pay attention, ask the hard questions, and demand that equity not be optional— but essential. Because when institutions retreat, the community has to rise. Not just with concern, but with a renewed commitment to make sure our young people still believe there’s a place for them, no matter who tries to erase it.
every family to build a legacy on this land.
Michigan’s future is tied to what happens next. When Black homeownership increases, the whole state benefits. Stronger neighborhoods. Full communities. Healthier families. But those outcomes only come when equity is more than an idea—it must be the standard.
Home is where stories begin. For too many Black families, that story is still waiting to be written. Not because the dream isn’t alive—but because the barriers remain.
The data has spoken. Now, it’s time for the people in power to answer back.
A5 | April 2-8, 2025
Money.
Why Owning Property Is a Modern-Day Power Move
In today’s world, power isn’t just about how much money you make it’s about what you own. For too long, we’ve been conditioned to spend rather than invest, to consume rather than build, to rent rather than own. But the tide is turning. More people are waking up to the truth: ownership is the new flex.
When you own property, you’re not just buying a home you’re making a statement. You’re saying, “I belong here. I’m building something. I’m not just surviving; I’m creating a legacy.”
The Shift: From Consumer to Owner
We’ve been sold a dream that often comes with debt, not equity. New cars, designer brands, and luxury apartments might look good on social media but they don’t build wealth. Property does.
Owning property changes the way you think. You begin making decisions for the long term. You budget differently. You invest differently. You see every dollar as a seed, not just a splurge. Ownership breeds discipline and discipline breeds generational wealth.
The Legacy Play
We’re not just talking about having a roof over your head, we’re talking about creating something that lasts beyond your lifetime. That’s legacy. That’s power.
Your home can become your child’s college fund.
Your duplex can become your retirement plan.
Your land can become your leverage.
When you own, you’re no longer waiting on someone to hand you a seat at the table you’re building your own table. And when you’re gone, your children and grandchildren will still be eating from it.
The Real Flex? Equity Over Image.
Real power isn’t flashy… it’s foundational. It’s having options. It’s being able to stay in your community, instead of being priced out of it. It’s knowing your rent won’t go up because you are the landlord.
This isn’t just about buying property. It’s about shifting our mindset, taking back control, and rewriting the narrative that says wealth isn’t for us. Because it is. Bottom Line: Property is Power.
It’s time to stop asking for permission and start claiming our piece of the American dream. Ownership is how we fight back. Ownership is how we rise. Ownership is how we win. Own something. Build something. Pass something on. Because Property is Power!
By Amber Ogden STAFF WRITER
PNC Bank has expanded its presence in Detroit with the grand opening of a stateof-the-art branch at 15360 Wyoming St. on March 27. The 2,728-square-foot facility brings advanced banking technology and personalized financial services to the Livernois-McNichols community, also known as the Marygrove neighborhood. It offers both digital and in-person solutions to meet the needs of local residents.
Michael Bickers, PNC Regional President for Detroit and Southeast Michigan, expressed the bank’s dedication to the community and highlighted PNC’s investments in the Livernois-McNichols community, including support of the groundbreaking Marygrove P-20 project.
“This new, state-of-the-art branch further extends our commitment to serving the community by bringing PNC’s full suite of financial products and capabilities to this thriving Northwest Detroit region,” Bickers said. The new PNC branch integrates advanced banking solutions to enhance customer experience, including: Video Banking Machine: An enhanced ATM allowing customers to conduct teller transactions via remote audio and video communication with a banker. Customers can cash checks, make deposits, transfer funds, and receive live assistance for complex
By Amber Ogden STAFF WRITER
In cities across the U.S., historically Black neighborhoods like Black Wall Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Paradise Valley in Detroit are seeing a resurgence of pride and economic growth. Once thriving hubs of Black entrepreneurship, these areas are now revitalizing their legacies through community-driven initiatives and a focus on supporting local businesses.
Greenwood, the innovative financial platform built to empower the Black community, is taking a bold step toward fostering wealth with the launch of two new programs aimed at creating cooperative economic growth. The Cash Back for Buying Black initiative for Greenwood Premium Members and a new partner marketplace connecting Black entrepreneurs and families with loan providers are now live. This move comes as Greenwood sees a surge in demand, with nearly $230 million in loan requests, including over $150 million in personal loans and $90 million for small businesses, signaling growing momentum for Black financial empowerment.
Greenwood’s Cash Back for Buying Black program gives Premium Members the chance to earn up to 10% cash back when they shop at specific local businesses. Right now, the program is being tested in Atlanta at places like Café Boutique, Kitchen Cray, and The Hidden Gym. This initiative not only helps local business owners make money but also builds strong community ties by encouraging shoppers to find and support Black-owned
companies. The program is also open to businesses across the country that want to increase their visibility and sales.
With 47 million Black consumers in the U.S. driving a staggering $1.6 trillion in annual buying power, only a fraction, just 2%, or $32 billion, flows into Black-owned businesses, restaurants, and service organizations. Even more striking, money spent at these businesses doesn’t just leave; it circulates within the community, creating a ripple effect with the potential to generate up to $48 billion in economic impact.
Greenwood has also launched a new platform that helps Black entrepreneurs connect with lenders who can provide loans. This platform also gives families the chance to explore different options for life insurance, refinance their student loans, and access personal loans for everyday expenses. The Greenwood Marketplace is available for everyone in the community to use.
Dave Cotter, the new CEO of Greenwood, highlighted from the start that the mission is committed to restoring the Black dollar to the community with Greenwood.
“The Black community commands an enormous spending power of $1.6 trillion, yet only about 2%2 of this wealth flows back to Black-owned businesses,” Cotter said.
“By increasing this flow by just half a percent, we could redirect an additional $8 billion into Black businesses. Our goal is to fuse technology with community, building a digital platform that automatically redirects spending to Black businesses,
Anthony O. Kellum
From page A-5
channels capital to Black entrepreneurs, and moves money into savings and investments to build wealth and a sense of belonging for the Black community.”
A great example of community support is Café Bartique, which is located in the lively neighborhood of Southwest Atlanta. To get started, Café Bartique received a small loan to help improve its business. Today, they are involved in a program called Cash Back for Buying Black™, which is helping more people learn about them and increasing their sales.
The next city participating in the Cash Back for Buying Black campaign is Tulsa, which has a rich history of Black success and resilience. Known for the historic Greenwood District, often referred to as Black Wall Street, Tulsa reflects the spirit of this campaign.
Greenwood Premium Members now have the chance to earn up to 10% cash back when they shop in stores using their Greenwood Mastercard® Debit Card at selected businesses. The cashback is automatically added to their accounts based on eligible purchases. This program, called Cash Back for Buying Black™, is currently taking place in Atlanta and includes businesses like Café Boutique, Kitchen Cray, and The Hidden Gym. Members will see their earned cash back in their accounts within 45 business days after they make a purchase.
“Black small businesses, they can be side gigs. They can also be micro, small businesses,” Cotter said.
“This is effectively no different than injecting capital directly, almost into the black consumer. If those Black businesses start to increase the number of dollars that get directed towards them, they hire more people. They are able to pay people more. They’re
able to qualify for more loans, which in turn gives them access to capital.”
Greenwood is also expanding nationwide, working to include online sales as part of the initiative. Applications are now open for businesses to join, and members can nominate their favorite Black-owned establishments.
The Greenwood Marketplace connects anyone in the community to third-party resources such as:
• Small Business Lending: Connect with independent lenders for business expansion, debt consolidation, or working capital needs.
• Life Insurance: Find term, whole life, and universal coverage through trusted third-party insurance partners.
Student Loan Refinancing: Access streamlined refinancing options through lending partners for more favorable terms.
• Financial Education: Learn credit management through NAACP’s “Credit 101” resources.
Donald Hawkins, VP at Greenwood, emphasized they are making funding more accessible for entrepreneurs.
“We envision a world where Black entrepreneurs have equal financial opportunities and seamless access to capital,” Hawkins said.
“That’s why we’ve made the process simple through our marketplace applying for loans is cost-free, has no impact on credit scores, and gives businesses access to multiple lenders with just one application. This is about eliminating barriers and ensuring Black entrepreneurs have the financial tools they need to build, scale, and thrive.”
Cotter wants all of Michigan, including Detroit, to sign up.
“We get the businesses on board. Then that turns into a driver to have people there locally, get our card, use the card with that business, and that is how we bring it to Detroit.” Greenwood Premium Membership Greenwood Premium Membership provides
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PNC Bank Opens High-Tech Branch in Detroit
From page A-5
signed to bridge the financial knowledge gap and help Detroiters build wealth.
Shemika Lane, Branch Manager at the new Marygrove Branch in Detroit, is a lifelong Detroiter who highlighted that it’s not just about opening an account and sales but also about the importance of financial literacy and access for Detroiters.
“The biggest thing that we lack in our community is financial literacy,” Lane said.
“I’m very intentional on making sure that I teach the clients that come in here the importance of having the checking account, the importance of saving, the importance of building their credit up, and having those intentional conversations and setting people
By Donald James SENIOR WRITER, REAL TIMES MEDIA
Detroit’s North End has long been a majestic haven for music and other creative artistry, with African American roots stemming back to the late 1930s.
While Motown Records was once located on West Grand Blvd., less than two miles from the North End gateway, the storied record label’s headquarters - now the Motown Museum – generated dozens of recording artists and musicians in the 1960s, many of whom had strong ties to the city’s North End community. Such recording legends included William “Smokey” Robinson and several members of The Miracles, Diana Ross, some members of the Four Tops, the Vandellas, and more.
Non-Motown artists also lived in the North End, including the Franklin sisters –Aretha, Erma, and Carolyn. In addition, several members of the Dramatics, the Falcons, and R&B and soul songstress Bettye LaVette either lived in the North End or went to Northern High School. Many of Motown’s backing musicians lived in the community, including jazz pianist and composer Sir Roland Hanna and jazz pianist and saxophonist Teddy Harris, who was the music director for The Supremes for 16 years.
The North End is a community just north of the storied Black Bottom and Paradise Valley, both of which had been completely demolished in the name of urban development by the early 1960s. From around 1910 to the 1930s, African Americans migrating from the South to Detroit were mandated to live in Black Bottom/Paradis Valley by racial housing discrimination laws and restrictive covenants.
The North End boundaries – not including the Milwaukee Junction for this story – have largely been defined by Woodward Ave (west) to I-75 (east) to Woodland Street (north just outside the Highland Park border to East Grand Blvd (south).
As African Americans started leaving Black Bottom/Paradise Valley to move into the North End – somewhere in the late 1930s and well into the ‘40s, their music - blues, R&B, and jazz, moved with them
3,000+
Detroit’s North End:
Its past is reshaping a new wave of creative and cultural artistry
to a community made up of European immigrants and Jewish people.
While Woodward Avenue was a major North End artery (going south to north), Oakland Avenue, by far, was the heart and soul beat of what propelled African Americans musically and socially and supplied the needs of a growing Black community.
“Oakland Ave. was alive,” veteran actor, producer, and North End native Lou Beatty Jr. told the Michigan Chronicle in an exclusive interview. “Oakland was alive every day, but on Friday and Saturday nights, the North End was vibrant with its incredible nightlife through the 40s, 50s, and ‘60s.”
Beatty rattled off numerous North End hot spots, which he said were electrifying back in the day, including the Champion Show Bar, Apex Bar, Club Zombie, Lee’s Sensations Club, and many more. However, perhaps the crown jewel of nightclubs on Oakland Ave. or anywhere else in the North End was Phelps Cocktail Lounge, formerly located at 9000 -9006 Oakland Ave. It was branded as the “Midwest’s Finest in Entertainment,” and lived up to its reputation, thanks to owner Edward Phelps, who bought the former Bizerte Jazz Bar in 1960 and converted it into Phelps Cocktail Lounge.
The soul music venue packed in thousands of people over its three decades of operation, booking top national acts in blues, R&B, and Funk, including, but was far from limited to B.B. King, Etta James, The Temptations, George Clinton’s Parliament, Nat King Cole, Otis Redding, Fats Domino, Little Richard, The Main Ingredient, Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes, Gladys Knight and the Pips, and hundreds more. The final show at Phelps was said to take place in 1980. After it closed, the nightspot sat abandoned and deteriorated for four decades. Several years ago, the music venue met the wrecking ball, leaving just a vacant lot and unlimited memories.
The Apex Bar, just south of where Phelps once stood on Oakland Ave., was a blues venue specializing in booking live “big-time” national artists in the 1940s, such as blues legends John Lee Hooker, Little Sonny, and Little Mack Collins. The Apex is closed, but the building still stands.
Beatty, who made his acting debut on the sit-com 227 in 1988 and has appeared in several dozen movies and television productions, was so enthralled with his life growing up in the North End that when he moved to Los Angeles, he ultimately wrote and presented a stage play called “Hold Onto Your Dream,” which he said is based on the life and times of people living in the North
End, including its many singers, recording artists, musicians, and songwriters.
Beatty’s stage play was presented at the Wilshire Ebell in L.A., and the Millennium Centre in Southfield, Michigan, receiving raved reviews at both venues.
“When I was growing up in the North End, it was filled with singers and musicians that played jazz, blues, gospel, and R&B,” said Beatty, who over the last 13 years has been featured in such movies/television shows as Betty White’s Off Their Rockers (2012), A Million Little Things (2018), Domino: Battle of the Bones, (2012), and The Warrant: Breaker’s Law (2023).
Former print journalist and North End Native Edward Boyer also saw the North End as a vibrant community, especially its music. He moved to the community with his family in the mid-1940s and graduated from Northern High School in 1957.
“At Northern, Smokey Robinson and I both were in the choir, and the much larger chorus. We sang a full-length “Messiah” without a score,” said the journalist who has written for numerous print media outlets, including the Los Angeles Times and Time Magazine. “George Shirley, who lived in the North End, also went to Northern High School. He was the first African American tenor to ever sing in a leading role at the Metropolitan Opera.”
North End was once the community where the legendary Black playwright Woody King Jr. lived as a youth. He later went to Will-O-Way School of Theatre in Bloomfield Hills before attending Wayne State University for postgraduate studies in theater. King co-founded Concept-East, a Black community-based theater company in Detroit, before serving as Director and founder of the New Federal Theatre in New York City, where he retired in 2021. King has written, produced, and directed more than 400 stage plays, both on and off-Broadway.
While the nightclubs of yesteryear are long gone from Oakland Ave., a newer brand of music emerged in the North End several decades ago: Techno. According to numerous sources, in the mid-to-late 1980s, Juan Atkins, Derrick May, and Kevin Saunderson - known as the Belleville Three, along with others were credited with producing the first wave of Detroit techno as a genre in their basements.
The North End is also home to the first Techno Museum in the United States, located at 3000 East Grand Blvd., further cementing Detroit’s North End’s place in the history of the genre. There is no signage to identify the museum. Those who are interested must email the date they are interested in touring the fascinating place
in advance. In addition to techno music, the North End is a growing hub for many impressive murals that are produced on brick facades throughout the community, telling stories of the community’s resilience, heritage, and hope. One of the most striking murals is “The Girl in D Earring,” created by artist Sydney G. James adorn on the western wall of the century-plus year old nine-story Chroma Building on East Grand Blvd., not far from the Techno Museum.
“The spirit, aura, and soul of Detroit is multifaceted,” James said in 2020. “From the wide range of music, visual arts, fashion, automotive innovation to everything in between, Detroit has been a city of culture creation. Culture and innovation creates figurative and literal ‘chroma’ – the purity and intensity of color. Though this piece is North End specific and it captures the personality of Detroit, the city.”
In addition, thanks to the work of Vanguard CDC with funding from the Kresge Foundation, much of East Grand Blvd., between Woodward Ave. and I-75, has been transformed through the beautification initiative called the North End’s East Grand Boulevard Transformation Project. The streets are pedestrian-friendly areas with planted flowers and trees, exterior displays of public art, colorful banners, eye-catching benches and swings, wayfinding signage, and creative crosswalks with more to come.
There are an array of art galleries and music venues in the North End, including Tangent Gallery & Hastings Street Ballroom. In addition, at 2900 East Grand Blvd, The Jam Handy Building, once a critically acclaimed film studio (1930s to the 1960s), put Detroit’s North End on the national map as the home for shooting and producing industrial and corporate training films, filmstrips, and other audiovisual platforms of the era. In mid-March 2025, Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II officially launched his 2026 campaign for governor at the former Jam Handy Studios.
In essence, the music and pulse of the North End continue to beat loudly and creatively with techno sounds, jazz, hip-hop, R&B, Neo-soul, rock, gospel, and other urban experimental wave music.
“I want to merge some elements of my past stage play that featured people in the North End holding onto their dreams to stay,” said Beatty. “I also want to now produce a television series right here in the North End, showing those whose dreams have come to fruition. It will be about the resilience of people in the North End and their evolution and incredible identity of their proud past, present, and what the future holds.”
in Southeast Michigan Get Free Swim Lessons in 2024 Through
Amber Ogden STAFF WRITER
Statistics show a significant disparity in swimming ability among Black children and adults, with many facing barriers to learning how to swim. Factors such as limited pool access, financial constraints, and cultural attitudes contribute to this gap. Programs like the Everyone in the Pool initiative aim to address these disparities by providing free swim lessons, helping increase access, and encouraging learning in underserved communities.
One year after expanding the Everyone in the Pool swim initiative, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks and its partners make a big difference in Southeast Michigan. In 2024, they provided 3,128 free swim lessons for adults and children, surpassing their goals for the year. This year was special because, for the first time, they offered swim lessons in schools and classes for adults.
From 2021 to 2023, the Metroparks and its community partners offered free swim lessons to more than 4,600 children, helping to keep them safe in the water. At the end of 2023, the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority Board approved a new five-year plan called Everyone in the Pool, which started in 2024. Drowning is a serious problem, especially for low-income families and children of color.
In particular, Black children between the ages of 5 and 19 are over five times more likely to drown compared to white children in the same age group. Metroparks is dedicated to changing this situation by providing more free swim lessons and essential water safety skills to communities that need them most through the Everyone in the Pool program.
Amy McMillan, director of Huron-Clinton Metroparks highlighted by meeting and exceeding 2024 goals, being addressed is the urgent need for water safety education while building a foundation for a safer and more accessible future in Southeast Michigan.
“We know access is one of the biggest barriers to learning how to swim and we want to ensure everyone in our communities, regardless of their circumstances,
‘Everyone
in
the
Pool’ Initiative Expands to 2025
have the opportunity to gain these lifesaving skills,” McMillian said.
The 2024 Everyone in the Pool annual report showcases important progress in teaching water safety skills. Last year, 10 partner organizations provided free swimming and water safety lessons to 3,128 participants across Livingston, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties at 20 different locations. More than half of the participants finished their lessons with good or excellent skills in back floating, which is a crucial technique for staying safe in the water by helping swimmers keep their heads above water. 87% of the swimmers learned how to get in and out of the water by themselves, and 57% mastered bobbing, a technique that helps with breathing control after going underwater unexpectedly.
Jecoliah Warren, the City of Detroit’s aquatics coordinator, emphasized that learning to swim reduces the drowning rate, improves cardiovascular health, and decreases child obesity, but the impact of this program goes beyond that and changes lives.
“Last year, I spoke to two grandmothers who shared that not only did their grandsons learn how to swim, but they were able to overcome their fears of water,” Warren said.
“That lets me know our program is working! To partner on this with Metroparks for another year means a lot to me as a Detroiter and our community.”
In 2024, the Metroparks started a great new program by
offering free swim lessons right in schools. This initiative was designed to help students by making it easier for them to learn to swim without worrying about transportation or parents’ busy schedules. That year, Whitmore Lake Public Schools joined as a new partner in this program. They not only provided adult swim lessons but also offered free swim lessons to all first and second-graders at Whitmore Lake Elementary School. Each session lasted two weeks, giving every child a total of ten lessons to improve their swimming skills.
At Detroit Public Schools Community District’s East English Village Preparatory Academy, swim lessons facilitated by the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit – Detroit Swims program were incorporated into high school gym classes, ensuring every student has the opportunity to learn essential skills. Swim lessons were also made available after school at South Lake High School for students in the district.
Ann Kehn, Recreation and Aquatics Director, Whitmore Lake Public Schools. With the support of the Huron-Clinton Metroparks Everyone in the Pool program, Whitmore Lake Public Schools was able to support every first and second-grader in 2024 and will expand into third and fourthgrade students in 2025.
“What an amazing opportunity to meet the kids in the pool during the school day. Now every child in this lake community is being taught the basic skills to be safe in and around the water,” Kehn said.
Last year, Metroparks also launched free adult swim lessons, with courses held at six YMCA locations in Macomb, Detroit, Farmington Hills, Wyandotte, Birmingham, and Royal Oak, as well as at Whitmore Lake High School Community Pool. When adults feel confident and knowledgeable around water, they’re more likely to promote water safety and ensure the children in their lives learn to swim and navigate water responsibly.
Lifeguard shortages have been a recurring challenge not just in Michigan but across the country.
The Everyone in the Pool 5-Year Plan included expanding lifeguard training programs by launching a pilot collaborative lifeguard training program with the YMCA. In 2024, in partnership with the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit, Metroparks launched a pilot training program and trained six new Metroparks lifeguards for free, who were then employed through the summer.
Metroparks partnered with Annapolis High School to help them offer swim lessons. Although the school had a pool, it struggled with finding the money and staff needed to run the program. To solve this, Metroparks obtained funding from the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan. They also teamed up with the YMCA to bring in an experienced swim instructor and to train six lifeguards. With this support, Annapolis High School can now provide free swim lessons to students from Dearborn Heights for the very first time in 2025.
Amanda Barone, Regional Aquatics Director for YMCA Metro Detroit noted when community service organizations and public services join forces, the community wins.
“Thousands of children and their parents will experience water safety and swim lessons this summer, thanks to the Everyone in the Pool initiative,” Barone said.
“One of the gems of this union has been offering free lifeguard training. We will never truly know how many lives we have saved through our partnership, but we know more of our children and families are safer around water because we came together.”
The Metroparks received not only the money they had planned for but also some extra funding from various grants to help them grow and continue their programs into 2025. One of the key supporters was the CDC Foundation, which gave them up to $50,039 to help expand swim lessons in schools. This initiative includes partnerships with schools like Detroit Public Schools Community District, South Lake High School, and Center Line Public Schools. The Metroparks received not only the money they had planned for but also some extra funding from various grants to help them grow and continue their programs into 2025. One of the key supporters was the CDC Foundation, which gave them up to $50,039 to help expand swim lessons in schools. This initiative includes partnerships with schools like Detroit Public Schools Community District, South Lake High School, and Center Line Public Schools.
Greg Yankee, associate vice president of Programs at the Community Foundation, highlighted that the Everyone in the Pool program aligns with the vision of a southeast Michigan where everyone thrives.
“It removes financial barriers to water safety and swim education courses, while increasing opportunities for lifeguard certification training. Thanks to the Huron-Clinton Metroparks and its partners, more children and adults in our region have the life-saving skills they need to stay safe in the water,” Yankee said.
Courtesy of Metroparks
C ity . L ife . Style .
Kelly Major Green Makes History as First Black Woman on Detroit Athletic Club Board, Rooted
in Legacy, Leadership, and Love for the 313
By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
The walls of the Detroit Athletic Club have stood tall for over a century. Inside them, generations of Detroit’s business elite, power brokers, and policy shapers have gathered, but for far too long, those halls echoed a silence that’s all too familiar—no Black woman had ever been elected to its board of directors. That changed when Kelly Major Green etched her name into Detroit’s history. This moment didn’t come with fanfare or confetti. It came with quiet power, community intention, and the lived experience of a woman who has always been in Detroit.
Green is more than a board member. She is a blueprint. Raised in Detroit, shaped by the grit of its neighborhoods and rooted by the legacy of her 92-yearold mother whose lasting impact drives her daily, Green stands as a living reflection of what happens when brilliance meets intention. “I’m a Detroiter through and through. I was born and raised in Detroit. I went away to go to school. I’ve lived in Chicago for a while and then came back home to live here closer to my parents,” she shared. “So I am all about repping the 313. I love the city. I have great affection for Detroit. I like Detroit’s no-nonsense attitude. The approach to life and business is definitely a part of what I aspire to personally.”
Her life isn’t curated for applause—it’s built on purpose. That purpose shows up in how she lives, where she lives, and why she lives there. “I’m married to my wonderful husband who puts up with me and all the things that I do, John Green Jr., and we’ve been married since 2007. We live in the city. I’ve always lived in the city in part. We don’t have any children, but the reason we live in the city is to support the city, to support the tax rolls, particularly for children who don’t have the capacity to pay for their own education. We feel like a part of our commitment here is to support that.”
For many, joining the Detroit Athletic Club is a symbol of arrival. For Green, it was always deeper than that. “I’ve been a member of the Detroit Athletic Club—this is my 20th year as a member. As a member of the club, it is for me an extension of my work life. Play, exercise—all of those things are encompassed in the Detroit Athletic Club with a broad array of other members and staff who have become like friends and family to me.” Her professional credentials are indisputable. An electrical engineering degree from the University of Pennsylvania. An MBA in marketing and entrepreneurship from Northwestern University. Currently serving as an institutional consulting director at Greystone Consulting, a division of Morgan Stanley Wealth Management. Her expertise in wealth management isn’t about gatekeeping—it’s about opening the door wider, with the mindset that health is wealth and access is essential.
But this moment—this appointment— carries a weight that’s historic and deeply personal. “I believe I’m correct in saying there’s only one other woman of color, Black woman, who ran for the board—Linda Forte, who is also a Michigan Chronicle Woman of Excellence, as I am,” Green noted. “I know Linda paved the way along with other board members to get to this moment. And frankly,
See KELLY
GREEN Page B-2
Where City Meets Life and Life Meets Style
Roar Brewing Co.
By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
The address 666 Selden Street carries a different vibration now. Where there once stood the Nain Rouge Brewery—named after a legend tethered to misfortune—now stands Roar Brewing Co., a symbol of reclamation. A roar isn’t subtle. It’s a declaration. It’s what this city has done for generations: shout back at systemic neglect, build in spite of barriers, and make something beautiful out of struggle. This time, Detroit roars in hops and barley, fermentation and flavor. Because for the first time in history, Detroit has a Black-owned brewery.
Roar Brewing Co. didn’t arrive quietly. It showed up on purpose, with a mission stitched into every square foot of the space and every ounce poured into a glass. Owner Evan Fay made sure of that.
“Detroit is home to the Lions, the Tigers, the Pistons, and the Red Wings—teams that roar with pride,” Fay said. “But the roar isn’t just in sports. It’s in the city’s engines, its music, its industry, and its people. We wanted our brewery to be a tribute to that spirit.”
That spirit is everywhere— from the steel tanks lining the brewery floor to the conversations echoing between tables filled with folks from every walk of life. Roar Brewing Co. was designed to be more than a taproom. It’s a gathering ground rooted in community and committed to accessibility.
Fay, who served in the military and was stationed in Wyoming, didn’t discover the blueprint for this in Detroit. It came during trips to Fort Collins, Colorado, where craft breweries didn’t feel exclusive—they felt communal.
Pours Culture, Community, and Change as Detroit’s First Black-Owned Brewery
The name “Roar” isn’t only about decibels—it’s about legacy. Detroit’s roar is born of Motown’s melodies, the strike of factory presses, and the ground-shaking pulse of muscle cars on Woodward Avenue. This city built America, and it did so with calloused hands and unyielding pride. Roar Brewing Co. pays homage to that.
Even the brewery tours are crafted with purpose. Interactive and educational, they walk visitors through brewing fundamentals, Detroit’s beer history, and Roar’s unique approach to making beer more inclusive. And they aren’t lacking in joy either.
“When I was in the military and stationed in Wyoming, I would visit breweries in Fort Collins, and I realized they weren’t just places to grab a drink—they were community hubs,” Fay said. “That’s exactly what I want Roar Brewing Co. to be: a space where people come together, whether it’s to watch a game, have a conversation, or experience craft beer for the first time.”
That vision is now a reality at 666 Selden Street. The space breathes with intention. Roar Brewing Co. features an outdoor plaza built for connection. A three-and-a-half-seasons room is already in the works, ready to serve as a venue for community gatherings when the weather shifts. Roar isn’t asking for community to show up—it’s creating space that says, we built this for you.
There’s no intimidation here. Roar Brewing Co. moves away from the often elitist air of craft brewing. Fay understands the cultural barriers that can alienate newcomers from enjoying this space.
“We’re not trying to be everything to everyone, but we want our beer to be accessible and easy to enjoy,” Fay explained. “Our flagship beer will be a Honey Oat Stout. Beyond that, we’ll have a Roar Pilsner, Roar Wheat Beer, Roar Saison… nothing overcomplicated, just really great beer.”
By Amber Ogden STAFF WRITER
“At New Belgium Brewing, they had a slide at the end of the tour, which was awesome,” Fay said. “We don’t have a slide, but maybe when someone finishes a tour, we all roar together. We want to bring that same fun, welcoming energy to craft beer in Detroit.”
Roar Brewing Co. flips a narrative. It moves the city past the shadow of Nain Rouge, the legend associated with doom and decline, toward a future defined by celebration and community control. It takes up space in a market that continues to leave Black brewers on the margins. Nationally, Blackowned breweries make up less than 1% of the industry. Roar is not just a first in Detroit—it’s a challenge to the status quo.
“There’s a great ecosystem in Detroit to support small businesses, but in craft brewing, there aren’t as many direct pathways,” Fay said. “Typically, you turn to people in your community who have done it before, but with no Black-owned breweries in the city, we had to look outside our immediate circles for guidance.”
Roar Brewing Co. connected with the National Black Brewers Association, tapping into a wider network to better understand the landscape and the long-standing barriers to entry for Black brewers. That effort speaks to the intentionality behind every aspect of this endeavor. Detroit deserves more than symbolism—it deserves systems of support. That’s the heart of what Roar is trying to build.
“Detroit has built a strong reputation as a city that supports homegrown businesses,” said Lisa Posey of Black On Both Sides.
“The craft beer scene, speakeasies, and vibrant bars are often small, independent ventures led by passionate entrepreneurs. Many of these business owners are Detroit natives or people deeply invested in the city’s future. Breweries often function as startup incubators themselves—hosting pop-ups, featuring local vendors, and cross-promoting with food trucks, artists, and musicians.”
Roar Brewing Co. understands this ecosystem. It’s not trying to exist outside it. The brewery is already planning to be more than beer and barstools. Events will center around the community—karaoke nights, live music, sports watch parties. It’s a space meant to amplify Detroit culture, not mimic someone else’s. Fay sees potential in the industry shifting over time to be more
See ROAR BREWING CO. Page B-2
The Revival of the World’s First African American-Owned Jazz Radio Station, 66 years later
The warm glow of dim lights bathed the stage at Baker’s Keyboard Lounge, Detroit’s oldest jazz club. Musicians tuned their instruments, conversations hummed over clinking glasses, and an unmistakable energy filled the room. The city had gathered not just for a performance but for a revival, a tribute to WJZZ, the legendary jazz radio station that once defined Detroit’s sound 66 years ago.
As drummer Aisha Ellis and her quartet started their soulful set from her new album Luck or Favor, the rhythm felt like a heartbeat, steady, and alive. It was a moment that echoed WJZZ’s journey: once a powerhouse of jazz radio, silenced for over two decades, now reborn and streaming to the world. After years of dormancy, WJZZ isn’t just remembering its past. It’s reclaiming its legacy, ampli-
fying the future of jazz, and proving that the spirit of Detroit’s music scene never truly fades.
For decades, WJZZ had been the pulse of the city’s jazz scene, a north star for musicians and fans alike. But in 1996, the music stopped. Detroit’s legendary jazz station, once the highest-rated in the nation, had gone silent. That silence lasted 23 years until 2015 when Rodger Penzabene Jr. reignited WJZZ’s legacy as an internet streaming station. What began as a local institution in 1950, founded by Dr. Haley Bell, Dr. Wendell Cox, and Dr. Robert Bass, has now evolved into a global force, reaching listeners worldwide. More than just a revival, WJZZ’s return is a declaration: jazz is timeless, and its legacy will not fade and it was birthed right here in the Motown. Through streaming, podcasting, and cultural initiatives, WJZZ is not just playing music it’s writing the next chapter of jazz history.
“Call letters became iconic, and no re-
spectful jazz artist was ignorant to WJZZ’s impact,” Penzabene said.
“You had to come to Detroit, interview here, and get your records on WJZZ. Many notable artists, such as Michael Franks, for example, come to mind. He says that WJZZ helped launch his career to be popular, and there are many others, but that’s what is so impactful and legendary of a station.”
In the early years, before becoming WJZZ, WCHB was more of a multi-format station, playing various genres of music to cater to a diverse audience. But as the jazz movement grew in stature, the station’s focus shifted toward jazz, gradually carving out a niche in the Detroit radio market. Jazz had long been at the heart of African American musical identity, and the station became a cultural touchstone for jazz lovers across the country. By the early 1970s, WCHB’s founders realized that the station could do more for jazz by fully committing to the genre. So, in 1974, the station underwent a bold rebranding; it became WJZZ, a name that encapsulated the essence of jazz music while symbolizing the evolution of African American influence in the media landscape.
MAJOR
Rodger Penzabene Jr. courtesy of WJZZ
Roar Brewing Co. Owner, Evan Fay.
WJZZ
From page B-1
The new direction of WJZZ embraced jazz in all its forms, from big band to bebop, from swing to fusion. The station became a sanctuary for jazz enthusiasts and musicians alike, offering an unparalleled platform for the genre. But it was more than just a station; it was a north star in every sense of the word for African American voices and culture.
As WJZZ became the go-to station in the 1970s and 1980s, it played an essential role in promoting jazz and supporting the careers of veteran jazz artists struggling to find airplay in the competitive music industry. It also created a platform for up-andcoming artists.
Despite the station’s success, the ever-changing media landscape posed challenges. By the 1990s, WJZZ faced increasing competition from commercial radio and the rise of the internet. As jazz became more mainstream and the media attention started to diminish, the station’s influence faded. The question of how to preserve its legacy and reintroduce jazz to a new generation was now a priority.
Enter the current head of WJZZ, Penzabene, whose name is synonymous with the station’s remarkable revival. With no prior broadcasting or media training background, the new leader took an unorthodox approach to rejuvenating WJZZ. Understanding the importance of tradition and the need for innovation, the revival was built organically. Rather than re-entering the competitive FM radio market, the station pivoted to online streaming.
Penzabene highlighted an old friend who sparked his idea to take on the enormous task of bringing WJZZ back to life, but it was a group of college students who helped him “slam dunk logic.”
“I was pursuing going back on FM radio, but I met some young college people who happened to be in media,” Penzabene said.
“They overheard me talking, and they asked, ‘Why do you want to go back on FM? That’s dead.’ They explained online is the way to go. However, the two things that captured me the most were the economics versus trying to do the FCC route and the coverage. So that was slam dunk logic.”
Streaming platforms offered the
perfect solution: they allowed WJZZ to bypass traditional broadcasting barriers, reaching an audience far beyond the constraints of local radio waves. Today, WJZZ streams 24/7, accessible from anywhere in the world, bringing jazz’s soulful rhythms and intricate harmonies to a global audience. The move to online streaming was about reaching more people and bringing jazz to places where it had previously struggled to take root.
The decision to move online was also strategic in targeting a younger audience, including the hip-hop generation. Hip-hop, which has deep roots in jazz, has long sampled and incorporated jazz elements into its sound. The station is now working to bridge the gap between these two genres, showcasing jazz and hip hop’s rich, interconnected history. This isn’t just about playing old records; it’s about creating a dialogue between the past and present, bringing jazz to a new generation of listeners who might not have been exposed to the genre otherwise.
As the station’s online presence grows, the vision for WJZZ continues to expand. One of the key initiatives is the development of podcasting. The goal is to provide listeners with in-depth discussions, interviews with jazz legends, music analysis, and explorations of jazz history. By offering engaging, informative content, WJZZ plans to become a hub for jazz education, ensuring that the genre’s rich history is preserved and passed on to future generations.
WJZZ’s ambitions don’t end with audio content. Plans are already in motion to expand into film production, with the goal of producing documentaries and features that explore the untold stories of jazz pioneers, the evolution of the genre, and its cultural impact. The station’s leadership recognizes that telling these stories through film will help bring greater visibility to the art form and provide a more immersive way for audiences to connect with the music.
“You’re not going to hear the music we play on Real Jazz , Watercolors or any other popular stations. You’re not going to hear the same song five times a day for a month straight,” Penzabene said.
“We’ll play the classics, but you’ll get bands like The Three Sounds, Gil, Scott Heron, Sun Ra, Rosco Mitchell, griot, Galaxy, people you wouldn’t even have heard of unless you’re a
Kelly Major Green
From page B-1
I don’t know that I’ve completely digested it yet. I mean, I’m honored to have been elected by the membership, and I don’t know if the moment has really sunk in for me personally. I got elected and got right to work on the board because it’s an important job. There’s a lot of volume of work.”
Green speaks with the clarity of someone who’s moved by legacy. She honors those who came before her while building space for those yet to arrive. “I am incredibly grateful to the support that I got from my fellow members and the support, frankly, from current and former leaders inside the club—including people like Linda, who ran for the board and, although she was unsuccessful, she made history as well as the first Black woman to ever run. That was incredibly motivating.”
Representation is not symbolic—it is structural. It’s about changing who has a seat at the table and who feels welcome enough to imagine themselves there. Green gets that. She knows this moment isn’t isolated from the social climate of 2025. “It also isn’t lost on me—the time that we’re living in. The fact that Vice President Harris made a historic run and she was making history herself, and how Black women are embraced in all aspects of life in 2025. I was overwhelmed at the moment, and I still get overwhelmed thinking about it, which is why I probably haven’t allowed it to completely sink in.”
healthcare, may adversely impacted by decision to overturn Wade.
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what the Supreme Court will rule in the upcoming days. Despite the decision, advocates on both sides of the argument are willing to continue their pursuits.
What makes Green’s leadership magnetic is not only her accolades—it’s how grounded she is in her mission. There’s a genuine desire to pour back into her community. That’s been clear from the feedback she’s received. “People came to me and said—other African-American women, either members or nonmembers—who said things like, ‘My grandmother used to work in the laundry at the “XYZ” club, and how proud they would have been to see me in this role.’ My hope is to inspire other young women, women of color, African-American women, and just be a role model—whether I’m actively coaching that or just by their observance of me—that they can be inspired to know that anything is possible for them.”
true, bonafide jazz connoisseur. So I’m proud of that.”
WJZZ is making a comeback, and it’s not just about staying in business; it’s about bringing back an important part of history. The founders wanted to create a space for African American voices, highlighting jazz music as a key part of cultural identity. They aimed to make sure that people in the future would recognize and appreciate the important role that African American musicians have played in the music world.
Penzabene understands how important it is to teach people about jazz and to keep this music style alive and exciting. As music around the world changes, WJZZ is committed to making sure that jazz continues to be enjoyed by everyone. The station plays both classic jazz and new styles, connecting the history of jazz with what it can become in the future. This shows the creative and pioneering spirit that jazz is known for.
“We are an independent boutique station for jazz connoisseurs. We’re independent, and it’s just a crew of hustlers who determine that we’re going to do it our way, independently, and do it here (Detroit),” Penzabene said.
WJZZ isn’t just about music; it’s also dedicated to helping its community. The station actively supports local charities, especially those that assist underprivileged neighborhoods, and offers scholarships to young musicians looking to pursue their dreams. The founders of WJZZ valued giving back, and that spirit is still very much alive today. Through educational programs, mentorship opportunities, and supporting local artists, WJZZ aims to uplift the African American community and celebrate the rich history of jazz music.
“Part of the new direction we’re going in I’m privileged to be in partnership with Black United Fund of Michigan. Ken Donaldson, the leader and CEO over there, and he’s one of my mentor advisors,”
“Helping disenfranchised Black and Brown youth, that’s a passion for me to support all youth, but especially the inner city, underserved kids. And we’re doing some cool things at the broadcast house. I plan to have an open house soon.”
For more information and to stream WJZZ live, visit https:// wjzzdetroitradio.com/
Detroit Public Schools to the way she values wellness as a non-negotiable part of success—Kelly Major Green is not simply making history at the Detroit Athletic Club. She’s holding that door open for the next Black woman to walk through it with less resistance and more support.
Detroiters know the significance of “firsts,” but they also know the importance of what follows. Sustaining presence, creating policy, mentoring future leaders—those are the next steps. Green is already walking in that. She’s not waiting for a title to tell her what leadership looks like. She’s been doing the work. This board seat is just the recognition catching up.
Moments like this are never about one woman. They are about community evolution. They are about reimagining institutions and shifting narratives from exclusion to inclusion—brick by brick, seat by seat. Green’s story is not wrapped in exceptionalism—it’s grounded in what happens when excellence meets opportunity, when dedication meets access.
Detroit has always been about more than what headlines tell. It’s a place of possibility, of transformation, and of deep, undeniable pride. Kelly Major Green sits at the intersection of those truths. She’s not just making history—she’s moving history forward, unapologetically, with the kind of love for her city that shows up in action.
The board seat is symbolic. Her presence is seismic. And the culture she’s affirming by being exactly who she is— that’s the real win.
From page B-1
inclusive, but he acknowledges the uphill path.
“I think over time, the industry will become more diverse. The challenge is that for a lot of Black entrepreneurs, luxury industries like craft beer haven’t been a priority because people are often focused on essentials first,” he said. “But we want to change that by making craft beer a space that is inviting, exciting, and approachable.”
It’s that word—approachable—that keeps surfacing. Roar doesn’t seek to complicate craft beer or gatekeep it. Instead, it aims to demystify it, to make it feel familiar. Whether you’re a longtime beer enthusiast or just curious about all the fuss, there’s a place for you at Roar.
“We want the community to be part of this journey with us,” Fay said. “We want to hear from people. Where do you want to see Roar Brewing Co.? In restaurants? In stadiums? We’re building this together.”
That kind of ownership doesn’t come from marketing—it comes from movement building. Fay is not just opening a business.
He’s anchoring a vision that says Detroit’s voice matters in every sector, even ones traditionally dominated by whiteness and wealth. Roar Brewing Co. is a statement. It’s rooted in the soul of a city that gave the world Motown, muscle cars, and movements. Its name says it all—loud, proud, grounded. From the Honey Oat Stout to the open plaza seating, from the community nights to the echoes of laughter, Roar Brewing Co. reflects the heartbeat of Detroit. It refuses to whisper its value. It shouts it. Most importantly, Fay says, “we roar with pride— for our city, for our people, and for every moment that deserves to be celebrated with a great beer in hand.” Roar Brewing Co. stands tall at 666 Selden Street. It isn’t asking for a seat at the table. It’s building the table, inviting the neighborhood, pouring the drinks, and turning up the volume on what community looks like—what community tastes like.
This is Detroit’s first Black-owned brewery. But it won’t be the last. Welcome to Roar Brewing Co. Hear the roar. Taste the pride.
in advance of the hearing. The Michigan Public Service Commission (Commission) will hold a pre-hearing to consider DTE Gas Company’s (DTE Gas) January 28, 2025 application requesting the Commission to: 1) authorize DTE Gas to reconcile the Revenue Decoupling Mechanism (RDM) for the period January 1, 2024 through November 20, 2024 as proposed; 2) authorize DTE Gas to credit a net amount of $10.55 million, plus interest to customers over a one-month period on a per customer charge basis; 3) authorize DTE Gas to include any residual balance resulting from an over- or under-collection, or over- or under-refund in subsequent RDM reconciliation filings as proposed; and 4) grant DTE Gas other and further relief as is just and reasonable.
All documents filed in this case shall be submitted electronically through the Commission’s E-Dockets website at: https://mi-psc.my.site.com/s/ Requirements and instructions for filing can be found in the User Manual on the E-Dockets help page. Documents may also be submitted, in PDF format, as an attachment to an email sent to: mpscedockets@michigan. gov. If you require assistance prior to e-filing, contact Commission staff at (517) 284-8090 or by email at: mpscedockets@michigan.gov
Any person wishing to intervene and become a party to the case shall electronically file a petition to intervene with this Commission by April 15, 2025. (Interested persons may elect to file using the traditional paper format.) The proof of service shall indicate service upon DTE Gas Company’s attorney, Carlton D. Watson, One Energy Plaza, 1650 WCB, Detroit, MI 48226.
The prehearing is scheduled to be held remotely by video conference or teleconference. Persons filing a petition to intervene will be advised of the process for participating in the hearing.
Any person wishing to appear at the hearing to make a statement of position without becoming a party to the case may participate by filing an appearance. To file an appearance, the individual must attend the hearing and advise the presiding administrative law judge of their wish to make a statement of position. Mich Admin Code, R 792.10413 (Rule 413).
Any person wishing to file a public comment may do so by filing a
Green isn’t asking for validation. She’s building on a foundation. This appointment may be her personal milestone, but the impact is collective. Black women in Detroit and beyond are watching, processing, and realizing that glass ceilings inside even the most exclusive institutions can and must be shattered—not for applause, but for access, for voice, for legacy.
What stands out about her story is how it encapsulates Detroit’s dual truth: its fight and its future. Green represents both. She carries the evidence of her mother’s resilience, the rigor of academic excellence, the strategic clarity of a financial powerhouse, and the soul of a woman who never left her city behind—even when the rest of the country tried to write it off.
Every achievement she holds is wrapped in intention. From how she and her husband invest in the city’s infrastructure by paying into the same tax system that funds
Beyond the scope of pro-choice versus profight for reprochoice is one of As Michigan work to ensure woman who finds in the position to has access to care the threat of legal many wonder
health committee
“Overturning Roe v. Wade would be a terrible break with nearly 50 years of judicial precedent and – more importantly – a blow against individual freedom. It is my hope that the majority of justices will reject the findings of this draft. If that is not the case, we need to stand with Senate Majority Leader Schumer and Gov. Whitmer in support of their efforts to preserve the right to reproductive freedom,” said Chair Alisha Bell, on behalf of the Wayne County Commission.
licensure policies to the barriers that psychologists face
Collaborations That Make a Difference: A Downtown for All to Enjoy
By Lila Asante-Appiah SPECIAL TO MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
The Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) is committed to enhancing the urban core and creating a world-class destination that serves as a thriving, inclusive community. Part of Downtown’s growth and success can be attributed to the collaborations we foster with public, private, philanthropic and community partners.
In this spirit of collaboration, the DDP was proud to receive an $800,000 grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. The funds will be used to improve accessibility, inclusivity, infrastructure, and design across several key parks and public spaces in Downtown Detroit, including Campus Martius Park, Capitol Park, and Grand Circus Park.
The grant will enable our organization to implement significant upgrades, expand services, and introduce innovative design elements. The goal is to ensure Downtown public spaces are inclusive, enjoyable and accessible for all, regardless of ability or background.
By enhancing public spaces, the DDP aims to attract more residents and visitors, boost local businesses, and improve Detroit’s overall urban experience.
In a recent press release announcing the grant, LaTrice McClendon, Detroit Program Director at Knight Foundation, shared the importance of this investment: “At Knight Foundation, we believe that vibrant public spaces are essential to fostering community engagement and economic vitality. This investment aims to ensure that Downtown Detroit’s parks are accessible and welcoming to all, reflecting the rich diversity of our city.”
Projects that will benefit from this funding include:
• Capitol Park – Enhancements are already underway to make this historic space more inviting.
• Grand Circus Park – Updates are scheduled to begin in April, improving accessibility and community engagement, with completion expected this fall.
• Campus Martius Park – Recent improvements, including the new CHALET 313 and The Rink at Campus Martius Park presented by Visit Detroit were also supported by the grant. Both Campus Martius Park and the Rink were voted #1 in the country in their respective categories by readers of USA Today.
DDP CEO Eric B. Larson emphasized the broader impact of
By Cody Yarbrough
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
these enhancements, stating, “DDP is honored to partner with Knight Foundation to realize a more inclusive, vibrant, and dynamic Downtown Detroit. This investment marks a pivotal step toward the long-term transformation of the city’s core into a destination where people can live, work, and play.”
Looking back on last year’s key collaborations that moved the needle for Downtown, the City of Detroit expanded the DDP’s responsibilities to steward 18 parks and public spaces throughout Downtown. This expansion in the DDP portfolio will allow for the reconstruction of the Gateway to Freedom monument. And with support from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) funding, the DDP is renovating Beatrice Buck Park in Paradise Valley. All of these projects ensure that Downtown public spaces continue to improve through sustainable funding and thoughtful design.
In winter 2024, the DDP partnered with Gardner White to design and style CHALET 313. Generous funding partners for CHALET 313 include Michigan Economic Development Corpora-
There’s so much that’s needed for a creator to be able to find success in the art world. Tools, skill, time, inspiration, and a myriad of other resources are required to make a career in art even remotely feasible. But beyond paint and brushes, the most valuable yet the most fleeting resource an artist can obtain is exposure. Especially if they’re just starting out. However, exposure is hard to come by when you’re a Black creator from a recovering city like Detroit. Fortunately for those looking to make it as a full-time artist in the city, places like the art gallery Someday in the old Milwaukee Junction are always looking for the opportunity to uplift voices that would otherwise be drowned out.
“This art exhibit is our first inaugural student exhibition.” Someday co-owner Jantae’ Spinks told us during their latest artist exhibit which featured young talent from across the metro Detroit area. “We partnered with Sabrina Nelson, Rhonda and Kim Theus of Canfield Consortium, and Paulina Petkoski at Playground Detroit to curate young voices from ages 13 to 25.” Spinks and her partner, mononymously known as Trotter, have operated Someday with this mission in mind for a little more than a year. The nonprofit works both as a visual arts gallery and an experimental kitchen where the owners can express themselves through an entirely different medium. Yeilding the walls of their establishment to underrecognized and developing artists so that they can obtain that essential exposure. Pieces of students from both traditional art schools like CCS (College of Creative Studies) and students from the school of self-teaching are featured side by side. It’s these works made by budding creatives that decorate their space at their ribbon cutting with the city of Detroit. The turmoil and uncertainty of running a nonprofit art gallery had delayed the ceremony all the way to their one-year anniversary.
tion RAP Program, William Davidson Foundation, Downtown Development Authority, and Grand Prixmiere.
And, thanks to support from the Kresge Foundation, in fall 2024, the DDP released its I-375 Peer Review, which outlined design recommendations that will impact Downtown Detroit and its residents for decades to come.
Yet despite said difficulties, Someday has remained determined to support local artists. They even extended a helping hand to applicants who didn’t make the cut so that they could still interact with the professional art world while growing as an artist.
“35 people submitted.” Spinks explained, “We have about 10 folks that we are platforming in Someday, and we offered a few of them internships if they did not meet the qualifications to make the exhibit. We imagined it like an olive branch. We didn’t want people to feel like they walked away with nothing. So we gave rubrics and notes for the students to study and artists that we felt they would resonate with. For people who mentioned that they were interested in being a curator or in a gallery space, we lent that hand. What they would do here is basically be a gallery assistant. So an adolescent would say that explaining the art to folks, explaining the tea we serve, and the experience to folks, and getting people excited about art. They’ll also be responsible for producing an event in [correlation with] the exhibit.”
If there’s anyone who understands the importance of this kind of experience to an artist, it’s Spinks and Trotter. The two Cass Tech graduates both have a deep history in the visual arts and careers that have taken them everywhere from LA to New York. As freelancers, they’ve worked with big publications like Rolling Stone, Nike, Telfar, and plenty of others. By the time they returned to their hometown, they had a firm understanding of how the industry worked. More importantly, they returned with the knowhow to help artists who were going through the same struggles that they had overcome. Thus, Someday was born. Displaying a new exhibit every quarter and providing new snacks and treats to accompany the art. But beyond the career-growing resources they provide, like art shows, internships, and industry connections, it might be the resource that costs them absolutely nothing to provide and truly defines the spirit of the gallery.
Further working to reconnect the community to the Downtown, the DDP serves as co-lead of the I-75 Cap Project alongside the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the City of Detroit. These efforts support the DDP’s mission to strengthen Detroit’s urban core and make the city a premier place to live, work, and visit.
“Freedom.” Detroit artist REALM told us. He was one of the featured artists of the exhibit and was present during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “A lot of people who run galleries aren’t creatives themselves in my opinion. So to have artists who are owners really allows for a lot of like comfortability. I feel like I can get a lot of information from them about how to navigate the art world without the vibe being pompous.
There’s like not a lot of pretentiousness here. And that it allows for a lot more expression. That’s what’s very unique about Someday. It’s like talking to like friends. It’s talking like talking to family almost. It gives me enough space to like pitch a work with a behind and message behind it and have people who understand why I am saying this and don’t just look at me like I’m crazy or like naive to think the way that I’m thinking. Especially with the stage of art that I’m in, it’s really like helpful to be able to experiment and then show people the ex-
If you’ve noticed recent updates Downtown, they are the result of ongoing, collaborative efforts at work. We are proud to serve Detroit, and even prouder to work in community.
For the latest updates on these exciting changes, visit DowntownDetroit.org and follow @ DowntownDet on social media.
periments that I’m doing and get feedback like, ‘I see where you’re going, go further.’ or ‘This is how you go further, this is how you push it a little bit more.’ That kind of energy is really important.”
As the student exhibition comes to a close, the owners of Someday have already decided to make it a yearly event hosted during the first quarter. This means that every year, the anniversary of the gallery will be celebrated with pieces on the wall from artists who are still learning about their craft and about their industry. Whether this be on purpose or by accident, this new tradition feels poetically perfect. For a place that’s founded on platforming voices and artistic freedom, there is no better way to celebrate than to give young artists the tools, the freedom, and the exposure that they need to grow. And with opportunities like these offered so rarely to native Detroiters, we should all hope that Someday has many more anniversaries.
Tariffs Disrupt Michigan Markets, Threaten Fresh Produce Affordability and Supply Chains
By Amber Ogden STAFF WRITER
In early 2025, new U.S. tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China are throwing Michigan’s local markets into turmoil as escalating costs and disrupted supply chains threaten the availability and affordability of fresh produce. Known for their reliance on imported fruits and vegetables, these markets now face a critical challenge: how to keep shelves stocked and prices stable amid the economic ripple effects of a broader trade strategy. The tariffs, designed to reshape international trade, have raised alarms in industries dependent on imports, with the agricultural sector feeling the brunt of the impact.
Tim Boring, the Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, emphasized that he had extensive discussions with farmers and other stakeholders, and he echoed their concerns about the imposed tariffs.
“While there are still a lot of unknowns, it’s important to remember two things: Canada and Mexico are our biggest export destinations, and the last time this happened retaliatory tariffs specifically targeted agriculture,” Boring said.
“We have to expect tariffs will immediately threaten agriculture jobs, our rural economies and ultimately what it costs to put food on the table.”
The specifics of the tariffs are as follows:
Mexico and Canada: A 25% tariff has been applied to goods that do not meet the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) rules of origin. This measure is especially significant for the produce market because a considerable portion of fruits and vegetables in the U.S. during the winter months are imported from Mexico and Canada. Additionally, a 10% tariff has been imposed on energy products, including crude oil and natural gas.
China: Tariffs on Chinese imports have been a long-standing issue. With an additional 10% surcharge, this brings the total tariff rate on Chinese goods to 20%. These tariffs impact a variety of industries, from electronics to agricultural products like soybeans, apples, and vegetables. Though the focus of this article is primarily on produce, the ripple effects of these tariffs extend beyond the fresh food industry, affecting supply chains and production costs in Michigan and beyond.
Initially, new tariffs were supposed to start in March 2025. After talks between U.S. officials and their colleagues from Canada and Mexico, the start date was pushed back to April 2, 2025. Even though this delay gives some extra time, businesses at local farmers’ markets and grocery stores are already starting to feel the impact of these upcoming price increases.
As Detroit’s iconic Eastern Market, along
with other local farmers markets, prepares for another busy season, they all face an emerging challenge: tariffs on imported goods that threaten to drive up prices for the fresh produce that many local vendors rely on. Much of the winter supply depends on imports from Mexico, Canada, and other nations, goods that are now subject to steep tariffs, potentially reshaping the way the market operates and how its customers shop.
At this time of year, many of the market’s staple items, like strawberries, tomatoes, avocados, and peppers, come from southern regions such as Mexico and California. The produce market is so interconnected with international suppliers that it’s nearly impossible to meet consumer demand without imports. For example, Michigan’s cold winters make growing items like lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes difficult, which have become essential in daily American diets. For these reasons, Mexico remains the primary supplier for many of these goods throughout winter.
Many people are worried about the expected increase in prices for fruits and vegetables. Even before new trade rules put extra taxes on imports, the overall cost of living was already rising, and food prices were going up a lot. With these new taxes, it looks like fresh produce, especially fruits and vegetables from other countries, will become much more expensive.
Chuck Lippstreu, President of the Michigan Agri-Business Association, highlighted that as a border state, leading agricultural exporter, and major North American trade
and transit hub, Michigan deeply values strong, long-term commercial relationships with Canada and Mexico.
“We are deeply concerned that acrossthe-board tariffs risk substantial negative economic consequences for Michigan agriculture and rural communities in our state,” Lippstreu said.
Last year, Mexico and Canada supplied more than 40% of the fruits and vegetables that the United States imports. This is especially important in winter when areas like Michigan are waiting for their own crops to grow. If a 25% tax is added to these imports, it could lead to a big jump in prices, causing strawberries to cost 30-40% more or even higher. Other popular fruits, like avocados, tomatoes, and peppers from Mexico, could see similar increases.
Consumers may be concerned about rising prices, but local vendors are at risk of losing business due to these cost increases. Many vendors at farmers markets are small, family-owned businesses, and they face a difficult choice: either raise prices for their customers or risk losing sales.
The silver lining is that the state’s agricultural exports recently set a new record in 2024, reaching $2.9 billion. This new benchmark was announced to commemorate National Agriculture Trade Day and reflects an increase of over $282 million from 2023.
“This record-breaking success for our agriculture, food and forestry companies proves Michigan ag brings high-quality products to the table that are in high demand domestically and internationally,”
said Boring.
“With so much uncertainty caused by new tariffs, these record numbers serve as an example of the economic prosperity we can foster with the right support and a level playing field. We’re proud to support Michigan farmers and producers as they expand their markets.”
At the same time, vendors may explore alternative suppliers from countries that may not be as affected by these tariffs. Countries like Peru or Colombia, for example, are increasingly emerging as potential sources of fresh produce, though these alternatives can present challenges of their own, such as increased shipping costs, quality concerns, and logistical issues related to international trade.
While the effects of the tariffs on fresh produce prices will likely be felt most immediately, the broader economic implications for Michigan’s economy are worth considering. Michigan, as part of the Great Lakes region, has long had strong economic ties to Canada and Mexico. The state’s trade with Canada exceeds $77 billion annually, while its trade with Mexico is valued at around $69 billion. The agricultural sector alone stands to lose significant ground if these trade relationships are disrupted by tariffs.
Michigan’s farming industry, especially those who grow fruits and vegetables, might run into trouble selling their products to Mexico and Canada. These neighboring countries could impose extra taxes on goods from the U.S. in response to tariffs set by the U.S. government.
Recently, Canada has decided to impose taxes on some American goods, including key crops such as apples, cherries, and beans. These products are very important for farmers in Michigan, as they rely on selling them. If fewer people buy these items because of the taxes, it could harm the local economy, resulting in job losses and reduced income for farmers in the area.
When President Trump talked to reporters at the White House about the possibility of setting new taxes on goods coming from Canada, he mentioned a big tax on lumber and an enormous 250% charge on dairy products. This could make trade between the U.S. and Canada more complicated and tense.
“Canada has been ripping us off for years on tariffs for lumber and for dairy products, 250% nobody ever talks about that 250% tariff, which is taking advantage of our farmers. So that’s not going to happen anymore,” Trump said.
When prices go up, how people shop can change. Some shoppers might cut back on buying certain products, while others may decide to buy frozen or canned foods instead. Local sellers might focus more on selling fresh produce grown in Michigan during the summer and fall to help offset the higher costs of imported goods.
Courtesy of Eastern Market
Classifieds
CITY OF EASTPOINTE NOTICE TO FILE PETITIONS FOR OFFICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN , that petitions for candidates seeking nomination for the following office are now available for the November General Election: CITY COUNCIL (2) (four-year term)
Candidates may file petitions with the City Clerk’s Office at Eastpointe City Hall: 23200 Gratiot Avenue, on or before 4:00 o’clock p.m. Tuesday, July 22, 2025.
Pursuant to City Charter, Chapter IV; Section 5: A Statement of Candidacy, therewith the Filing of Nominating Petitions shall be signed by not less than one hundred (100) nor more than two hundred (200) qualified and registered electors of the City of Eastpointe.
Nominating City Council Petition Packets are available at the City Clerk’s Office.
KINDLY BE ADVISED, that petition forms are currently available at the City Clerk’s Office, Monday-Thursday, from 8:00 o’clock a.m. to 4:30 o’clock p.m.
FILING DEADLINE: JULY 22, 2025 by 4:00 o’clock p.m.
Withdrawal deadline: Friday, July 25, 2025 by 4:00 o’clock p.m.
Please contact the Clerk’s Office for any questions/concerns at 586.204.3019
Robin R. Underwood
Deputy City Clerk
MIKE DUGGAN MAYOR, CITY OF DETROIT ADVERTISEMENT REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS/PROPOSALS FOR Auditing Services for the Detroit Building Authority (DBA) Written responses are requested from interested respondents (“Respondents”) to this request for qualifications and proposals. The purpose of this request is to procure a qualified vendor for professional auditing services for the DBA for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, as more fully described in the Request for Qualification/Proposals (RFP/Q).
Interested respondents may obtain a copy of the RFQP and all associated documents at BidNet Direct. (www.BidNetDirect.com). This unique request is titled Auditing Services for the Detroit Building Authority (DBA)“” and will be posted on March 25, 2025. A pre-submittal meeting and site tour will take place at 1301 Third Avenue Suite 328, Detroit MI 48226 beginning at 11 AM Detroit time, on Wednesday April 2, 2025.
The DBA will receive the responses, as herein set forth, via the online procurement platform BidNet Direct. Bid Proposals are due no later than 12:00 PM EDT, on Tuesday, April 8, 2025.
The Respondent may only submit one response to this Request for Qualifications/ Proposals. Participation in more than one submittal team will result in rejection of all responses by that Respondent.
Respondents submitting qualifications may be required to make an oral presentation(s) to designated City representatives. The issuing office, if required, will schedule such oral presentation(s). The Respondent must pay any travel costs incurred for such presentations.
The Respondent must agree to comply with the requirements of the City of Detroit’s Ordinances and Civil Rights, Inclusion and Opportunity Department Requirements. If there are any changes to the dates listed above, notifications will be posted in BidNet Direct.
No response to this Request for Qualifications/Proposal may be withdrawn for at least 120 days after the actual opening of the qualifications/proposals. The DBA reserves the right to waive any irregularity in any qualifications/proposals, and to reject any or all qualifications/proposals, should it be deemed in its best interest. If additional information is needed regarding this RFQP, please contact Marc Tirikian of the DBA at (313) 600-4876.
REQUEST
Detroit Building Authority
1301 Third Avenue, Suite 328 Detroit, MI 48226
FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) CONSULTANT – CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SECRET SHOPPER SURVEY DEVELOPMENT, DISTRIBUTION AND ANALYSIS
Principle Engineer
October 2022
4 Tips to Take Control of Your Savings
(Family Features) Saving money is a critical financial practice that nearly everyone strives to accomplish. Yet, it is often easier in theory than reality. If you are anxious or concerned about your financial situation and your ability to save, know you’re not alone.
More than one-third (36%) of the general U.S. population feels anxious about their current financial situation. Further, many households across the country do not feel in control of their finances, with 11% reporting they’ve “forfeited contributions to their retirement accounts,” potentially impacting themselves later in life. These figures from the World Financial Group paint a concerning picture of how people across the country feel about their current and future finances.
Consider these savings tips.
Create a Budget
Every budget begins with your net income. Ensure you subtract deductions like taxes, workplace benefits, insurance or retirement plan contributions. This way, you know exactly how much money is available each month. Next, calculate all fixed expenses, including regular monthly payments or bills. These include utilities, cellphone bills, rent or mortgage, vehicle payments and anything that remains static month-to-month. Subtract those fixed expenses from your net income to create your monthly budget.
Track Your Expenses
Once your budget is in place, it’s much easier to keep track of expenses that vary month-tomonth, like gas, groceries and entertainment costs such as dining out, seeing a movie or going to a sporting event. Tracking minor expenses may seem tedious initially, but logging each purchase can help set a foundation for financial accountability.
Set Savings Goals
Tracking your expenses for a few months should give you a good idea of how realistic it is to save a set amount of money each month. Before you set a goal, or if you’re struggling to consistently reach savings goals, take a financial literacy quiz to test your knowledge and then consider meeting with a financial services expert.
Pay Down Debts
Detroit People Mover/Detroit Transportation Corporation 535 Griswold St Ste # 400
Debt is one of the largest barricades people face when trying to save more money. If you feel debts are stopping you from reaching your financial goals, know it is possible to pay off debt while saving at the same time. Make sure to prioritize debts with higher interest rates that lead to compounding costs in the future and then, if possible, make more than the minimum payment to pay them off faster. It may limit you in the short-term but can equate to more financial freedom –and the ability to save more – in the future.
PUBLIC
Find more expert savings advice and test your financial literacy by visiting WorldFinancialGroup. com.
BID # 07-01-2022
Detroit Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) is seeking proposals for a qualified consultant to work with Detroit LISC to create, distribute and analyze customer service surveys to gather information about the services of the Detroit at Work One Stop System. The findings from the surveys will be analyzed and put into interim and final reports to be submitted to LISC. Specifically, Detroit LISC is seeking those with proven experience in the following areas:
✓ Evaluation
✓ Survey Creation, Distribution and Collection
Tit: Principle Engineer, # of Pos: 1, Loc: Novi, MI, Job ID: PEPD-HCS-J-01 Duties:Resp for Automotive In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI) sys testing, Digital Key feature testing. Analysis of the req captured from CRS docu and create project req docu (PRD) specific to the Domains and linking those integrated req to Doors CRS docu. Android Automotive OS compliance Pre-Certification test. Req gat specific to IVI. Create project req docu (PRD) specific to the Domains. Google Automotive Services Compliance Pre-Certification process. Issue triaging expertise and recommend technical details for issue fixes in the IVI features BT, AAP, CP, WiFi, USB, MTP devices Req: Bch deg (or frgn equ) in Computer, Electronics, Electrical, Information or any rel Eng deg with 5 Years of experience in IT industry.*Will also accept comb of deg or professional credentials determined to be eqiv to a bach deg by a qualified evaluation service. Alt: Mast deg (or frgn equ) in Computer, Electronics, Electrical, Information or any related Engineering deg with 3 Years of exp in IT industry. Skill Set: Min 3 Years exp in Automotive domain, exp in IVI features: Navigation, Voice Assistant, Bluetooth, Telephony, WiFi, Audio, Music, System, HMI, Radio (FM, AM, DAB, Sirius XM), Live services with Telematics, Over The Air updates, Cluster interaction test with IVI system), vehicle sensors, regression testing. Tools: Exp in testing tools, BT & WIFI sniffer tools, Vehicle/ Test Bench simulators, Test link automation framework, UI Automator. Dev Methodologies: Waterfall, V model & Agile. Apply: Send your Resumes to Harman Connected Services C/O Jayalakshmi Ramasamy (Job ID: PEPD-HCS-J-01) 2002, 156th Ave, NE Suite 200, Bellevue, WA 98007.
✓ Analysis
✓ Report Development
✓ Program Design
The Detroit Transportation Corporation Office of Contracting
The Regional has established Enterprises 2025. This neutral participation which reflects contracts and The proposed in accordance regulations
Visit https://www.lisc.org/detroit/about-us/careers/ to download full RFP. Responses to this RFP are due Friday, October 21 and should be emailed to LISC is committed to working with Small Business Enterprises (SBEs), Minority-Owned Business Enterprises (MBEs), and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (WBEs). LISC encourages submissions from SBEs, MBEs, and WBEs.
REQUEST FOR QUOTES
The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is soliciting RFQs for Pre-Employment, Drug, and Alcohol Screenings Control No. 23-3659. RFQ forms may be obtained beginning October 19, 2022, from http://www.mitn.info. RFQs are due by 3:00 PM ET, November 11, 2022
mandersonjr@thepeoplemover.com
Get Involved During Global Volunteer Month This April
The goal and for inspection Friday at RTA’s 1400, Detroit, days following
The RTA will date of this
RTA of Southeast 1001 Woodward Detroit, Michigan Or e-mail to:
The due date for Proposals is November 10, 2022 at 12:00 p.m.
If you have questions, please contact the Procurement Department at (313) 873-6531.
(StatePoint) Global Volunteer Month, celebrated in April, is a time to honor volunteers while encouraging volunteering in communities around the world.
This annual celebration is especially pertinent right now. According to a Pew Research report, only 54% of Americans feel a connection to others near them.
Detroit People Mover/Detroit Transportation Corporation 535 Griswold St Ste # 400 Detroit, MI 48226
“Communities around the country are facing increased needs at a time when many people are feeling more isolated. Volunteering fills the gaps to strengthen community and the fabric of our society,” says Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO of Points of Light, the world’s largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteer service.
BID # 08-8-2022 REBID
The Detroit Transportation Corporation Office of Contracting and Procurement requests proposals from qualified Contractor/Firm(s) to provide annual geometry measurements of the LIM rail height, power rail tolerances, running rail height and track gauge.
But as Sirangelo points out, volunteering doesn’t just build healthier and more equitable communities, it’s also good for the individuals who are lending their time and talents. “Engaging in volunteer activities has been identified as an effective way to build confidence, alleviate anxiety and depression, and provide a sense of purpose and connection,” she says.
Here are some ways you can take action this Global Volunteer Month and beyond: Take the Pledge: Let your community know you are committed to volunteering and service by taking the Points of Light’s Global Volunteer Month Pledge. With nearly 50% of volunteer postings going unfilled, your participation can help meet critical community needs and ensure essential services are delivered. Already committed to a cause you care about? Take this opportunity to deepen your engagement. Commit to one extra volunteer project a month, or consider taking on a leadership position with an organization you work with.
The initial information and subsequent trending information on the rate of change of the measured parameters of the Detroit People Mover (DPM) track will be reviewed and utilized as part of the existing detailed maintenance plan to ensure long term safety and availability to the riding public.
Thank a Volunteer: Volunteers are the heartbeat of strengthening communities, and throughout the month, you can help recognize the vital role they play. Thank a volunteer or organization that is making an impact in your community starting on April 1 and throughout the month using the hashtag #ThankAVolunteer.
All bids must be received by the Detroit Transportation Corporation via Bidnet/MITN on or before 5:00 p.m. (EST) November 7, 2022. A pre-bid site visit is scheduled for Wednesday, October 25, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. (EST).
To the qualified Wayne County, that a Public that will be Tuesday, November October 25, room (lower Robert The Public that the computer cast
Spread the Word: Use social media to spread the word about the importance of volunteering using hashtags like #GlobalVolunteerMonth. To inspire others to take action, share your own volunteer story using #WhyIVolunteer.
Proposals can be accessed on the Bidnet Direct www.bidnetdirect.com//detroit-transportation-corporation
Get Started: Not sure how to get started or where your efforts will make the biggest social impact? Visit Points of Light Engage, at engage.pointsoflight.org. This enormous database allows you to search for volunteer opportunities in your city or zip code based on your interests. Whether you’re volunteering on your own, with coworkers, or with family, you’ll be sure to find an opportunity that’s right for you.
Mike Anderson Procurement Manager mandersonjr@thepeoplemover.com
“Volunteering is needed more than ever before. This April, we are urging everyone to join us in taking action. Lend your time, talent and passion to making a real difference in your own neighborhood and to creating a better world,” says Sirangelo.
ACCURACY
PHOTO SOURCE: (c) Dragos Condrea / iStock via Getty Images Plus
