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Vol. October 18-24, 2023 Vol. 87 87 –– No. No. 73 || September 20-26, 2023
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Detroit’s UAW Blight Remediation Shifts and Excellence at the 10th Annual Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40 ATriple NightStrike of Elegance into Overdrive Against Detroit with Highway Automakers By Ebony JJ Curry Cleanup Efforts SENIOR REPORTER
By Late Ebony JJ Currynight, Thursday
Sept.
SENIOR 14, a REPORTER historic moment unfolded
in American labor relations as as the hearttheDetroit, United often Autoreferred Workersto(UAW) beat of American automobile history, is union initiated a strike against synonymous sprawling Ford, Generalwith Motors (GM), roads and and robust infrastructure. However, Stellantis. For the first time, over the highways have paradoxthe years, unionits took simultaneous ically become both a testament action against all three major De-to the city’s monumental riseThe andaction a symbol troit-based automakers. of urban neglect. It’s hard to ignore the involves approximately 13,000 heaps of trash that have long lined the UAW members in assembly plants freeways. Such sights have across Michigan, Ohio, andinadvertentMisly shaped perceptions Detroit, souri, whomany walked off their of jobs troiters. The symbolism of Black beekeepers revitalizing niably commendable. By Ebony JJ Curry casting a shadow over the city’s numerafter existing labor contracts extheir city is a powerful testament to the resilience and Amidst the glitz and glamour, the event also showSENIOR REPORTER and vibrant culture. ous piredachievements at 11:59 p.m. ingenuity of our community. cased the diversity of talent within our community. From But as the city anticipates the 2024 NFL Shortly before midnight on could As the night unfolded, we had the privilege of hon- Paris T. Prichard, a forensic scientist pushing the boundn a monumental breathtaking celebration of talent, determinaDraft—a event that Sept.again 14, released a statement tion,GM and the spirit of Black excellence, oring other outstanding individuals, each carving their aries of her field, to math wizards like Donna Laster, who once thrust it unyielding into the global spotexpressing disappointment with the Michigan Chronicle marked light—there’s a renewed vigor to over- its 10th Annual own path to success. Clement “Fame” Brown, the crethe strike action, offering 40 Under 40despite event Thursday evening. This year’s ative mind behind Three Thirteen Detroit’s Brand Name, See 40 UNDER 40 page A2 turn these perceptions and reflect Dewhat termed anin“unprecedented soirée,ittrue drenched the theme “All Black Everything with received the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year Award. troit’s essence. economic package” that included Gold Accents,” transcended expectations and essential- Brown’s commitment to empowering the city through Historically, the Michigan Departhistoric wage increases. Stellantis ly illuminated the golden(MDOT) gems within ment of Transportation was the true essence fashion and entrepreneurship has left an indelible mark. of Black excellence. Hosted by the charismatic duo of “Entrepreneur of the year – that’s a big deal,” said tasked with ensuring the highways’ Andre Ash However, and Lynzee from Michigan Chroni- Brown. “It’s always an honor to be honored and it’s cleanliness. a Mychael pivotal change cle’s Finally Friday, the night was triumph for the city always a blessing to be in a room full of so many talentoccurred in March when the City ofaDeof Detroit and the its vibrant troit assumed mantle community of this task.of young Black pro- ed, accomplished, and popular people that look like me. fessionals. He’s talking about families I’m geeked. I started making and selling clothes as a kid The transition was facilitated by MDOT’s By Andre Ash across the city that can move and I always knew that I would have a business, but I The evening sparkled a golden as we commitment to finance the with endeavor, al- promise DIGITAL ANCHOR multipleSays times Increased during a school celebrated remarkable individuals from various walks never knew it would be Detroit’s brand name business, DPD Chief James White locating $650,000 annually to support so I take a lot of pride in the fact that our business repyear to obtain secure housing, of life. Among honorees were the brilliant and vi- one Detroit’s cleanup the objectives. There’s day during the Police Presence Culled Violence resents our city’s pride.” which can create a lot of movesionary co-founders ofsome Detroit Hives, and semester A quick drive across of the city’sNicole Lindsey fall school each school ment from school to school. Timothy Paul Jackson. Their work has not onlyyear changed Taking home the Corporate Excellence Award was freeways, unfortunately, reveals a narwhen students are encourBy Andre Ash the landscape of beekeeping and urban farming in DeDannis Mitchell, Director of Community Engagement at “I do think there is a more rative of neglect. From the unsettling aged more than all other days DIGITAL ness district that had been the lifeblood ofANCHOR towards mending the wounds inflicted on troit expressed also disappointment exemplified transformative Barton persuaded Malow. modern way to do this where By Ebony JJ Curry sight ofbut a mattress deserted onthe the to impact attend. They’re also inLodge Black Detroiters and restoring a sense of bethe community. Black professionals can have on their communities. you can look at enrollment over “It is so important to recognize that there are young Freeway’s exit ramp at Wyoming to the SENIOR REPORTER by pizza parties, pajama days, a statement, saying the company A string of shootingstime insowhile callously in also torn beingaway sensitive It’s a that history marred “Together we created social, environmental, across the country, many are born herebyin pain, injus- longing that was countless tireswent andhave bicycle parts astrewn movie hours, leaders and more. While immediately into contingenGreektown in past. mid-April oflefttransiency rates that our the For many Detroiters, Interstate 375, or tice, and economic devastation. More than and financial impact through bees,” said Jackson. LindDetroit. I represent our city nationally and I tell people, about, the scope of the challenge is evithe students refer to them as cy mode to protect its operations. both visitors and residents of families experience.” I-375, has long been just another stretch of from The I-375 Boulevard Project is about more sey followed that sentiment with, “It is through our local 130,000 residents,ofprimarily ‘Yea I’m a D-girl the west-side Detroit,’”Black, were dent. fun days, educators across the I’m The UAW has branded the inthis bustling downtown des- historical injustices; it’s urban highway, a concrete artery connectthan just correcting partnerships and collaborative efforts that we exist in Mitchell expressed. “But more importantly, I’ve been able forcibly displaced. Families were uprooted, Amid efforts to get students However, amid this prevailing chalstate refer to that one day as dustrial action as the “Stand-Up tination inabout awe. One of these ing different parts city. To some, it’s redefining the future. It will connect over 28 plus locationsServices managing the health ofCount 4.5 milhave experiences withingenerational an industrywealth that not many of was obliterated, and a inside the classroom to be lenge, Detroit’s DepartDay. oftothe Strike,” focusingGeneral on specific plants shootings tragically claimed mere convenience; to others, it’s an unre- of thriving downtown Detroit to surrounding neighborlion honeybees –a humbly speaking oura movement has us, specifically women color, have the opportunity to community was torn asunder. The counted as it relates to funding ment showcases beacon of optimism within each automaker. UAW It’s aof day when all public the life of a popular and the be- gap that was placed upon markable part their daily in commute. inspired others locally, nationally, internationengage and I’veHowbeen thewounds youngest personby in the room, it’s a two-pronged inflicted I-375 run deep, tran- hoods, bridgingresources, and resolve. Zachary headand of even President Shawn FainMeers, stated, the “This loved security guard followschools in Michigan count the ever, there’s a deeper, far more troubling the city decadeseffort ago. for many school districts allyDepartment’s to take on similar missions.” the only Black person in the room, and the only Sistah in scending the physical barrier of a freeway to the Blight Remediation Distrategy will keep the companies ing F. a dispute with a patron. numberthe of students in this their reDr. had Nikolai Vitti the very Dr. Michael Rice Today, beneath surface of seemingly the room, and I really to articulate thesoul importance across the state and the Valley country penetrate of Black Detroiters. the resurgence of Paradise Detroit pioneering by vision, emerges as give aacentral figureorganization in this story founded guessing. ItHives, will our nationThe male suspect allegedly spective districts. The number ordinary freeway—a story of pain, of showing up,displacegiving “If chances when others won’t, and battling chronic standsbefore as a fleeing testament to the absenteeism. indomitable Lindsey and Jackson, harnesses beenarrative of transformation. students attend after the progress in attendance postThis painful legacy can be traced back al negotiators maximum leveragethe power of urban shot the guard of students inbeing attendance trans-Detroiment, and theCity. lasting impactpersistent.” on Black As a trailblazing Black woman ofhis Black Detroiters and the enduring keeping to revitalize neighborhoods window or enroll after thrivCOVID program era, sent “It’s undeniable that there to the nation’s interstate highway Meers passionately commented: and flexibility in bargaining. And “Asin the Motor the which scene, spirit whilemany female lates directly ing to the amount of count male-dominated ters. in a predominantly industry, her to connect legacy of Black excellence. This historic disTheir initiative only addresses like the count window then we only students away from school has been a negative lingering of 1956—a program that aimed in everything wenot weweaim to pro-critical issues if we need to go alldo,out, will. companion is accused of confunding theinschools receive, a unwavering commitment to fortifying the connections The tale begins what is now Lafayette trict, once a vibrant hub for Black businessenvironmental conservation but also provides valuable receive 10 percent of about buildings and instead to learnimpact from the pandemic on the country but often did so at the expense vide the bestis service to the citizens Everything on the table.” Union and cealing the weapon in her bra. DPD Chief James White metric mandated the Stateneighbusinesses and Detroit’s communities is undeknown BlackbyBottom—a es and culture,attendance. is experiencing a renaissance education andresources employment opportunities Black De- as between $9,600 to educate that same ing from home instruction. DPSCD has always of marginalized communities. In the case of maximize the we have at our Park,toonce leaders have also indicated that School Aid Act. These incidents unfolded during an days. unseasonably thatpoint harkens back to its with glory The dechild for theitrest of the year,”a path“From struggled the traffic higher rate disposal. year,could our first (year) man- borhood rooted in African-American culture additionalThis plants be targetI-375, meant carving through the a numbers ofto increased warm spring, leading pedestrian and “Count Day was a success struction of Black Bottom may have torn Vitti says. of chronicle absenteeism which aging the mowing cleaning of the and history. Named after its dark, fertile ed in future waves and if negotiations heart of Black Detroit, reinforcing segregaview, we’re trending 200-300 heightened tensions in the densely populated downtown (this fall),”flourished Dr. Nikolai Vitti, Bottom during the mid-Vitti apart thrivingmeans community, but the more than 18resolute days of freeways and service drives in coopera- soil, Black remain stalled. tion, andthe perpetuating inequality. says school disstudentsarea. higher than weawere Superintendent of Detroit 1900s, nurturing the dreams and aspirations determination of a new generation of back entre-to schools and that goes tionFain withclarified our partners at thestratMichigan trict he leads never turns away last year. Although our enthe union’s For one to aptly recognize the harm The surge in crime and the influxisof visitors tothat DePublic Detroiters Schools Community Dis-Young, of prominent like Coleman preneurs and visionaries reclaiming concentrated poverty.” Department of Transportation, we rea child to enroll and attend rollment took a hit from the egy: “I want to give a major shoutcaused by such projects, it is vital to note that troit’s downtown core garnered the attention of the Detrict, said of this year’s Oct. 4, Joe Louis, and numerous other Detroit leglost legacy. moved overthousands 1,700 cubic yards of litter. one ofsome theirof school after the pandemic, we’re starting to re- (DPD), Detroit percent out to the of members the planners and politicians behind troit Police Department catchinghad them78 somewhat 2023 in day. the name of urban renewalcount in window In count the heart of Paradise Valley,inBlackWe 260 miles our free- ends. But but makes clear bound from the 2021 fall chronic absenteeism 2021; whocleaned are on over the picket linesofright those projects built them directly through off guard. the 1950s,“The thisenergy vibrant andneighborhood excitement was are not flourishing way system and Housing Resource Helpline in communi- owned businesses DPSCD is heart nonetheless educatperiod.” in 2022, thatjust number dropped now fightingAsh forcompleted all of us.five Thecycles By Andre the of vibrant, populated dismantled, from the James White, Chief ofoffering Police the Detroit Police Deabout Count Day erased continues but thriving, diverse services, prodof mowingStrike on the and service systematically response ing the studenttoforthe thechallenges remainto 68 for percent. Stand-Up is afreeways new approach Whilepartment, the Day” ties—oftentimes to reinforcethat segregation and “Count DIGITAL ANCHOR map, and replaced by a lifeless stretch of der as- of said: “We were caughtthat somewhat flat-footed …90% of our state funding ucts, and experiences pay homage to the drives, including litter removal. We also the school year without residents face in navigating the to striking. Instead of striking all been the gate. measurmore can done sometimes as part of a directwindow effort to has replace out the Bypaving designSo, wewhat wentfor into the be spring past while the way a prosperous have anatin-house team dedicated to re- phalt. comes from the count window.” beingcomplex fully funded. system of neighborhoods. housing ing ser-stick right plants once, select locals will be for funding allocation, to empower students to get or eliminate Black Homelessness continues to whichFrom is lessjazz than the mid-summer deployWhile the areasisbore the bruntInvices. future. clubs toclassroom soul foodon restaumoving legacy blight andwalk debris The helpline providesit can a bedeployment, called to stand up and outon the Theresidential window Vitti talking thisBut situation, the school seen as an outdated inside thein afirst conplagueonurban communities, with now, after decades of enduring the ment, and saw we say an uptick violence that heart of Blackthe Bottom, rants,dollars the Black Press,basis? and art to freeways and service which are of this demolition, singlemay pointbeof reimbursed contact for people on strike.and This is our drives, generation’s about is thethe days following district metric for determining sistent Thegalleries state level, families individuals grappling scars of I-375, there is a glimmer of hope warm weekend.” business center, remained largely fashion boutiques, this revival is budget breathing focusing on the hard-to-reach crevass- its thriving seeking housing assistance and answer to the movement that built official Count Day, where if a the following year. However, per pupil. following the latest paswith the challenges of making on the horizon. Plans have been unveiled to White Restaurants, theaters, clubs, attributes the violence in Greektown to life into the very essence of what once made es, overgrown trees, and strikes the areas with the resources“I think Chief our sit-down of that untouched. student is not in attendance on and thereconnects may notthem bethis money in the sage, attempts to ensure more there different endsunion meet –inthe today’s economic clitransform once-divisive freeway into a are bars—the very places that brought Detroit’s a combination weather conditions andcultural a surgeepicenin popthis of neighborhood a vibrant make the mowing more difficult, essen1937. We told the Big 3 that Sept. they need. reserves for the present school the Count Day itself, they can ways to ulation. determine enrollment educational investment is chalmate. Whether it’s struggling to that seeks to right the wrongs of the ter. together—were concen- vision when It’s a resurgence that extends beyond tially leading to a more efficient 14 was the deadline and we meantopera- Black community said student comes still be tallied if the student has year needed Support for the helpline which then drives revenue,” lenged by school districts. meet monthly mortgage payments past while heralding a new era of inclusivity trated around Hastings Street, the epicenter brick and it represents thethat resurtion in gave future seasons.” He explained, Wemortar; saw numbers downtown we it. We the companies our ecoCountFoundaan excused absence and attends is attending from the after Gilbertthe Family Dr. Vitti says. “It’s easy to“ talk or coping with soaring rental costs Overall, thetoper pupil founand community revitalization. of African-American culture in the city. window genceever. of a spirit that refuses be subdued. have not seen, People are emerging from COVID Such a methodical approach raises the nomic demands eight weeks ago has passed. Ultimatewithin 30 calendar days followtion, which has pledged $10 milabout a window when you’re dational allowance has inin a housing market marked by Fueledsome by more $100 million Then, a cruel Hastings andfrom there’s feeling we’re in a post-COVID era… question: How Detroit and it took more than a month to its Citycreased Councilman Fred Durhal ly, that schoolthan inginthe counttwist day. ofA fate, student lionmeans over three years todisfund talking the about cities ina aDetroit districtthat shockingly highis prices, ainnovating variety from $8,700 in fiscal the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Street, too, was obliterated a few years later, and with the venues downtown and the reasons to come strategy for an extensive highway cleanget to the table.” III, representing District 7, where Eastern tricts like DPSCD are teaching may still be counted if they that don’t have the concentra- year 2022 to $9,150 in 2023 program. Wayne Metro Commuof factors contribute to the growand other partners, this ambitious down project Market wayanfor the Julie construction of I-375. the resides, activities that going on, we saw up? Meers explained: “We really im- making told theare Michigan Chronicle, morenity students with less allocatunion is pushing forare a comhave unexcused absence and Dunn Schneider andalltherefore Action Agency manages tion the of povertywith ingThe issue of people becoming un- Meagan aims to create jobs, remove barriers to ecoSee COUNT DAY This marked the final blow, sealing the fate hundreds of more people and, in particularly, young plementing a data-driven approach to the “It’s still very early in the process, MDOT is ed dollars. prehensive list of demands. This attend within ten school days helpline, making it accessiblethe totransiency rates that we see housed. nomic growth, and reconnect the neighborof Blackfollowing Bottom and signaling the beginning folks, teenagers that we hadn’t seen.” Page A-2 the all count day.residents. This However, Dr.simplifies Vitti seesaccess some toamong Detroit initiative the our families.” See INVESTMENT Page A-2 Historically, shelterspage have provided respite See CLEANUP page A2 a temporary of the end for Paradise Valley, the Black busi- hood with the rest of Detroit. It is a Responding step See UAW STRIKE A2 swiftly to the surge in violence, DPD for those in need, often serving as the first or second option City’s various housing services, ensuring that residents in adjusted its deployment plans. Rather than waiting for after exhausting alternatives like staying with friends or need can easily find assistance. mid-summer, they deployed officers in the spring itself family. Shelters offer a place to rest one’s head and a warm “The city and its partners offer a lot of great services to address the situation. meal, albeit sometimes for extended periods. For others, to help Detroiters with their housing needs, but they don’t The rise in visitors to the Greektown area is evident being unhoused means living in cars or makeshift outdoor mean much if people don’t know how to access them,” said in data from Placer.ai, a location analytics company settings. Mayor Mike Duggan. “Thanks to the efforts of our partners “Generally, climate resiliency can be increased because of discrimination, but they specializing in visit trends and demographic insights By Ebony JJ Curry By Lynzee Mychael The causes of homelessness are as diverse and complex and the generous support of the Gilbert Family Foundation, strategic systemdevices. upgrades, exwere sewer alsomobile coming because Black through through geolocation-enabled From SENIOR REPORTER MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST we now have a simple process to guide residents to the right as the individuals experiencing it. In response, the City of panding our already robust DWSD Stormpeople was doing someGreen stuff. When May 1-Aug. 27, 2022, there were 1.3 million visits and housing resource and a growing number of programs to Detroit has adopted a holistic approach to combat thiswith issue.resilience Detroit, and indusInfrastructure Program including did Black(GSI) people starttodoing things 655,000water visitors to Greektown, according Placer.ai. Fromsynonymous the days of the Great Mi- them.” help “Providing services and high-quality housing to persons trial prowess, grappling with a new challenge: larger projects that redirect rain and snowmelt inyear, the these city?numbers They started doing In the same period this increased to gration whenisthousands of Black Gilbert Family Foundation’s broader commitment at risk of or who are experiencing homelessness isofa black key the growing menace moldThe in the afterthrough detention basins, and incollaborating things this area the 1800’s. 1.4 million visits and 670,000in visitors. families flocked to Detroit in search pledging priority of the City of Detroit, said Julie Schneider, Director math ofand recurrent the city is no $500 million to support projects across with other city and public In departments, the 1800’s theprivate major thing that of jobs a betterfloods. life, toWhile theinvolves pivAs Detroit’s downtown area continues to attract both Detroit over the next ten years, with housing initiatives of Detroit’s Housing and Revitalization Department. stranger to adversity, the question arises: How through the doing city’s in stormwater they were Detroit is ordithey otal role they played in the city’s residentsdevelopers and visitors, the police department has implebeing and a significant can we the safeguard Detroit’s homes health part of their contribution. nance that was passed in 2019, Greatthe Lakes were the leaders in fight against “This means focusing on building pipeline of sup-heritage, cultural and musical mented various enforcement measures to the manage infrom the looming threat ofofmold, intensified by has witnessed a consistent decrease in Water Authority (GLWA), Wayne County, and slavery. The Underground Railroad Notably, Detroit portive housing and coordinating with the Continuum Black Detroiters have left an increased population. Notably, metal detectors have been escalating challenges climate change? the placed Michigan Department Transportation is the rootGreektown in theofcity of deter Detroit recent years, with the number of unhoused residents steadiCare What on the a delivery of critical the resources suchon as the emergency delible mark city.ofHowever, strategically throughout to theto Federal (MDOT)oftofirearms. ensure stormwater management all of that this Black innovation that you ly declining. 2019, approximately 7,847 people were unshelter, rapid rehousing, and prevention pro“More than half ofDetroit Detroit homes experienceInrein recent years, has expeillegal carrying MDBBA’s Small Businessand diversion Government Shutdown is included insee any infrastructure coming later.” upgrades. The housed and entered the City’s community response system. grams. It also means preserving and expanding affordable current flooding, 84% of which have mold,” rerienced significant gentrification, “We have strategically placed them at key points, “ Investment Program shared goal is to get stormwater out of theAretha comIn 2021, about 5,687 people experienced homelessness. housing options for Detroiters of all incomes and improving ports Climate Central, a nonprofit organization Could Mean which has raised concerns about Chief White explains. It Musical has been alegends deterrentlike for some, Empowers Metro Detroit’s bined sewer system or slow downGaye, the flow, and housing stability though comprehensive service offerings of researchers whoof report on the impacts of to cli-the City of Detroit, since the start of the the displacement long-standing Franklin, Marvin and According and some have tested it. If you are legally carrying the a for Detroiters? Black Entrepreneurs to make sure the systemsound we have today is operatseaSimilar level rise, flooding, andto 2021, Detroit saw a 28% decrease in the available through the Detroit mate Housing Resource HelpLine Blackchange, residents. to acoastal setting emerged Defiscal year 2019 weapon and carrying Motown a CPL, have a great day. Iffrom you’re ing to its full troit, capacity.” other extreme weather. Butand theBlack danger isn’t conand Detroit Housing Services Division within HRD.” sun, there’s a rising spirit, providing a soundtrack for the HOMELESSNESS page A2 SeePeter POLICE PRESENCE Page A-2 fined solely to reclaiming those directly floods. Detroiters are theiraffected placeSeebyCOMBAT Larson, arights respected postdoctoral recivil movement and inspirIn May 2023, the City of Detroit launched the Detroit Shockingly, “approximately half of Detroit in the city, despite the challenges searcher at the of Michigan, echoed ingUniversity generations. Motown Records, homes that have not flooded still have mold.” In posed by gentrification. this sentiment in his by 2021 study. According to founded Berry Gordy Jr., was not and rainwest sides. Over time, these long after our current phase gen- just an era marked climateMigration, change, extreme his of research, “more than half 4,000 a record label of butalmost a symbol of During thebyGreat Detroit Water Department ac- Detroit homes neighborhoods centersand of Sewerage trification. fall events, such as Detroit’s flood, Thebecame surveyed had and experienced recurBlack excellence empowerment. thousands of Black familieshistoric from 2021 the challenges and is actively Black culture and entrepreneurship. are commonplace. the warmer at- knowledges rent to flooding between 2012 2020.” Among “Black peopletaking were coming Dethe becoming South came to Detroit in As search However, as and Detroit faced ecosteps. As rainfall becomes more frequent, what mosphere retains more moisture, it is anticipated these were homes, nomic “84 percent that hadpopulation flooded in loss the According to Historian Jamon troit because Black churches of jobs in the booming automobile decline and is Detroit to past that futureDespite rainfallfacing will surpass previousJordon records, to have the basement.” Blackproactive resiliencemeasures in the city here, implementing black schools were here,were and found industry. discriminain the latemold 20thin century, many address flooding concerns, in resi-Daily posing dire challenges,they especially for the young hasScan roots the that extend far before the Up itsparticularly was BlackDigital businesses here,” said QR Code to known Sign for the Newsletter tion and segregation, built vidential zones and problematic streets? page A2A2 See BLACK inhabitants of Detroit. $1.00 Great Migration and will persist Jordon. “They were coming of course brant communities on the city’s east See MOLD LEGACY page $1.00
I
Is ‘Count Day’ the Most Equitable Way Greektown Had 1.4 Million to Fund Detroit Schools? Visits This Summer and No Shootings Can Reparative Investment Finally Heal the Wounds Left by I-375?
All Hands On Deck to Combat Homelessness A Holistic Approach to Providing Shelter and Support for Detroit’s Unhoused People
WHAT’S WHAT’S INSIDE INSIDE
BlackResilience Mold is Becoming a Major Problem for Detroit Residents Black Amidst Gentrification: Reclaiming Detroit’s Legacy
Closing the Wealth Gap:
Money. A5 A5 Money.
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cine and healthcare, may what the Supreme Court be adversely impacted by will rule in the upcoming and historical sys- floor temporarily,” advised the decision topolicies, overturn days.lead Despite temic inequities—can DWSD. the “Theredeciare about 10 Elected officials are Roe v. Wade. 1 to persistent dampness neighborhoods of the 100+ sion, and advocates on both mold growth. Mold proDetroit neighborhoods also working to keep “What we are really annually from the combined sides of the argument are that From page A-1 women ducesisallergens that, when are historically flood-prone Roe v. Wade intact thus sewer system are evidence concerned about the willing to continue their But even more concerning is can trigger asthma according to our data – it’s that the impact climate resiliency holding offof homes Michigan’s on our inhaled, patients. that “55.4 percent or pursuits. exacerbate not a consistent citywide work has Access started andtois abortion on- symptoms n pre- that had not flooded ban. during Gover1931 trigger is al-asthma “Overturning pre-existing in resi- phenomenon though Roe v. DWSD going.” oment those THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE PUBLISHING COMPANY still had moldy noryearsGretchen Whitmer ready out of reach for far dents. This dynamic creates is taking steps to make the Wade would be a terrible Beyond infrastructure to 1452 Randolph • Detroit, MI 48226 • Phone: (313) 963-8100 of the basements.” a perilous environment for sewer system more climate releasedThis apointsstatement too damage, many the Michiganders, break with nearly 50 years and property an indisputable truth: with Publication No.: USPS 344-820 final. saying, in part: Blackpeople residents in Detroit, resilient.” especially Black presence of mold brings dire increasing rainfall comes of judicial precedent and OFFICE HOURS: 1452 Randolph • Detroit, MI 48226 • Phone: (313) 963-8100 where mold exposure coma lawIn Detroit, with comand peopleReof color who – more importantly health repercussions. an exponential rise in mois“The words ‘Roe overMon.-Fri. 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. | Closed Sat. and Sun. – a bines with other urban polPublication No.: USPS 344-820 bined sewer and rainwa31 law ture levels, making even search post major weather face additionallutants barriers The Michigan Chronicle is published every Wednesday. turned’ are no longer to intensify the risk blow against individual ter systems, overwhelmed OFFICE HOURS: effect, non-flooded Hurricane KaADVERTISING homes suscepti- events, like Periodical Postage, paid at Detroit, MI. Price $1.00 and otherDEADLINE post office. to care as a result of sysof asthma and related respi- It I want every pipes result in untreatfreedom. is can my hope trina in 2005, has indicated Mon.-Fri. 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. BUREAU OFClassified: to mold. ed the bletheoretical. MEMBER OF AUDIT CIRCULATION 3 p.m Friday ratory problems. temic inequalities and ined sewage backing up into to know— high indoor mold that the majority of jusCopy, corrections and cancellations, Closed Sat. and Sun. June 25, 2021, will be the peril ofstitutional m that Michigander a De- streets and homes. Furracism.Leonard LosingJames, levels, which can induce preceding the Wednesday publication. no matter what happens ADVERTISING DEADLINE tices will reject the findnstitu- long remembered by Detroi- or exacerbate resident and victim thermore, low-income and The Michigan Chronicle is access to conlegaltroit abortion health Classified: 3 p.m Friday in D.C., I’m going to fight ters. According to Climate Display: 12 p.m. Friday ings of this draft. If that is ontain of recurrent poi- Black households are morepublished every Wednesday. ditions, including asthma,those Copy, corrections and cancellations, preceding the the Wed nesday publication. will impact com- flooding, preceding Wednesday publication. Central’s data, to theprotect city field- access like hell the case, need to captures not the human likelywe to live in substandard Periodical Postage, n. Our ed “more than 25,000 calls” respiratorymunities infections, most, al- gnantly ForFriday all news and calendar items: Display: 12 p.m. forcing to safe, legal abortion in element behind the statishousing with foundational paid at Detroit,preceding MI. stand with Senate Majoreven neurologDeadline is two weeks prior to event. anned over two days as relentless lergies, and the Wednesday publication. people to become parents his ordeal, exacerbating Michigan…” Price $1.00 other office. This becomes tics. Recounting ity For and all news and post calendar items: Deadline is two weeksthat priorcontain to event. Leaderissues, Schumer and their Weeks ates of rainfall inundated the area, ical damage. or expand theirJames families states: “The last flood vulnerability. MEMBER Weeks OF thatAUDIT containBUREAU holidays, deadlineholidays, is Thursdaydead prior line to publication date. prior particularly disconcerting is Thursday Gov. Whitmer in support to disaster decla- implithan legal unding leadingMore was the worst of them all. It OF CIRCULATION against their will. Being to publication date. This raises a call to when considering Detroit’s in four Detroit-arofHe their to preserve cations, overturning Roe alition rations high-efforts action: How can Detroit, in high asthma rates. able toLarson’s decide was anddevastating.” con- the ea v.counties and 67,000 right to reproduclights the gravity of the sitWade would impact sevroduc- damage claims with the research unveiled its enduring spirit of innotrol if,a startling when and howrevealing, to tive uation, “We are freedom,” said eral systems across the vation and Chair resilience, adcorrelation: “74.4 percent of All, a Federal Emergency Manbecome a parent is cena stressfulBell, dress intertwined that had flood- all very clearly inAlisha onthebehalf of issues spectrum. the households poaffirm agement Agency.With Despite tral to building and living situation around this time of flooding and mold? With POSTMASTER ed in recent years reported the Wayne County Comtential to drive both foster the sheer volume, about POSTMASTER — Sendchanges address changes on and Send address to: to: of year.life,” My daughter is in lives and livelihoods at a healthy, happy having at least one adult in damage claims mission. MICHIGANCHRONICLE CHRONICLE • |1452 Randolph •• DETROIT, MIMI 48226 and adoption numbers MICHIGAN 1452 Randolph DETROIT, 48226 om in “24,000 the ER almost every year stake, the city’s response the home said who had been di- Giroux. Vasquez were denied by the regional upward, a ban on aboraround this time, she has to this challenge will be its ution,” water agnosed with asthma.” authority in Metro Beyond the asthma, scope and of I know it has testament to future generationsAuthorities could leave Giroux. Detroit. The prevalence of asthma argued many something to do with mold tions. pro-choice versus prowomen choose less the Black commus that that the sheerto magnitude of a within that seems to keep reappearlife, the fight for reproGiven the gravity of the nity, especially in urban route widespread restoring ‘back rendered ing in rainsafe ing.” children who are growing From page A-1 situation, the overarching ductive choice is one of settings like Detroit, is basement flooding inevitaabor- alley’ and illegal aborup with a lot of exposure,” James’ narrative compels question remains: What and to $9,608 in 2024. high. Data conWithpractices, past episodesincluding in alarminglyfreedom. As Michigan tion higan, ble.” Dr. Rice says. “These have us to examine a fundamenproactive steps will Detroit sistently reveals that Black 2014, 2016, 2019, and 2020 officials work to ensure “Big increases, still not been the best two budgets self-abortions. Moreover, tal aspect: housing condimakes leaving undertake to shield its resexperience disindelible marks, one individuals each woman finds tions in Detroit. The reality idents from the compound sufficient,” says Dr. Michael back-to-back since Prop A AfricanWhat American we will wonders: proportionately elevated who measureswomen that homestofar from major threats of flooding and F. Rice, Superintendent in 1994 to change our fundherself in the compared to position women color, rates whoof asthma be adopted to of mitigate e can canand choose has access to bodies care are flooding mold, ensuring a safer and State Board of Education. ing system. We still have a other racial groups, with nu- water calamities? already have “We’ve a long-stoatients future suggests that housing condi- healthier future for all? Ac- “We know different chil- long way to go before we’re merous factors contributing these with issues access without the threat of legal ried about history e they known tions might be a significant cording to the city’s Sewer- dren have different needs, adequately and equitably One of the a long time and have been to this disparity. wonder different needs have differ- funding all of our children and inclusion in medi- action, many factor driving basement
Black Mold
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE PUBLISHING COMPANY
Count Day
working towards climate often-underestimated culresiliency for several years,” prits is the presence of mold flooding in the city. “We advise that people who live in urban The housing.health Detroit, committee theislature DWSD statement adopts said. it. flood-prone areas of the aging infrastruc- in “The 11 bioretention gar- with its recommends reviewing Increase school fundcity should have items in recurrent flooddens that were installed on ture and state licensure policies to off the floor, their basement ing: Statutory changes to ing issues, has a significant Oakman Blvd. in 2020-2021 1 such as in totes and up high address the barriers that increase School Aid of homes affected have reduced the flooding in number on shelving, in case of a o have Aviation Black psychologists face by mold. In urban environand the by mas-at least FundSub, revenue rain event. Also, if a storm ments, substandard housinglicensure stormwater project in senta- sive$3.6 in obtaining in billion and establish resulting is forecast, they should conWest neighborhood conditions—often egisla- theaFar permanent weighted Michigan. that will remove 100 mil- from economic challenges, sider moving valuables from their basement formula based onof adequate Ensure equitable dis- to a higher lack housing lionfunding gallons of stormwater
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n and student and community tribution of state health al jus- needs and universal pre- funds: Ensure all Michiof significantly improving visual recom- school (0-3). gan promise communities with a landscapes and air quality for the residents ection Black Reject censorship in significant and everyone passingpoputhrough. analy- history From receivetransformation adequate into a focal page A-1 En- lation Detroit’s instruction: th the work funds toforaddress mental and building on theWhitmer foundation that point major national events is palpable, couraging Gov. set for us. As we gather more inforAttor- MDOT with a series of standout moments punctuhealth issues. to ensure the goal for about the typography, our plans ating its calendar. chigan mation Michiganinformed, schools should Black voting leading to a greater Protecting Earlier this year, the city buzzed with exLaw willbebe better history instruction rights: Urge state impact on our residents. The more progress citement as Taylorofficials Swift graced the stage, ndards wethat bymore pro-we can make is on presented the project, the to remain vigilant captivating fans within herthe chart-topping hits ciation increase our efficiency, better serfessionals withleading the to subelectric presence amidto the huge outpour fightand against schemes cutors vice.” ject matter expertise, disenfranchise of support, causing her two-day concert to Michiganolders pedagogical Residents’ participation and their sell out in hours. This musical extravaganskills, and evolvderszaofset color. mindset are crucial in sustaining this the tone for what was to come. By ct and ingjudgment necessary to change. When questioned about instilling August, Detroit becamehave the chosen destina“BLAC members gically. present complex inforthis sense of collective responsibility, Meers tion for Afro Nation, the music festival that worked hard to identify mation to students war- added, “In leading the project, that we want to magnetized thousands from every corner of the the needs of the Black set a precedent and create environment are grounded inan provcountry. Afro Nation’s choice of venue House community and we feel was deeply speaks to and folksadd to the in Detroit able facts ations that these recommendations andunderstanding helps us keep our of modsymbolic, hosted on hear- city clean together.” thefirst grounds of the hiswill provide a solid America. d other ern-day toric But, beyond the imstep towards breakingBrewster-Dougld ban mediacy lass Housing Projects. Increase mental health down barriers in educaof now, what of no- does Once a testament to Afthe future hold? supports for the Black tion, community safety, rican-American ambiconfidently knock Meers community: Recommend- health and business,” tion and potential, the “This is where ng the shared, ing Michigan set a goal said BLAC Co-Chair Brewster the data comes into Dr. Projects have o pass of increasing the number since been repurposed play. As we grow our Donna L. Bell. m and knowledge into a vibrant festiof Black health of themental landBLAC will hold val a virmer to scape site. Here, tens of and scale, we service providers by 20% thousands gathered, turning the hallowed be better informed and able to do more he leg- willeach tual town hall meeting year over five years. grounds into a pulsating with the resources we have, hopefully leadto discuss its policy rec-hub celebrating black love, culture, joy, and artistry. Their ing to a streamlined and efficient operation ommendations Thursexperience wason further predestined when that is sustainable in the long term.” day, the May 12 at 4 p.m. Join powerhouse Beyoncé took the spotlight Complementing these efforts is the at Ford Field just weeks prior, delivering a BLAC and a virtual audi“Keep Detroitbelieve Clean” campaign, a beacon of people that they 1 performance that reverberated beyond the ence in discussing the theneed city’s proactive measures against urban to for themselves confines of the city. races. blight. Jasmine Barnes, Chief of Policy recommendations to supothers General to liveServices betterDepartAdding to Detroit’s burgeoning entertainandand Engagement, port the Black communiansfor- ment, lives.” emphasized the campaign’s achieve- ment scene, comedy legend Dave Chappelle ty. p as a ments,“Chancellor stating, “In 2022, the City ofisDetroit chose the city for his biggest area stand-up Ivery show to taking in overthe the Little Caesars h that launched an interdepartmental campaign BLAC isdate, housed a true transformational signature humor, ‘Keep Detroit Clean’ to address Michigan il- Arena. His change entitled Department ofcombined with leader and an city outstandthe ambiance of such a large venue, created legal dumping within neighborhoods. e sys- ing CEO, who is more Labor and Economic OpThis campaign was highly successful, and a memorable night for all attendees. stanc- wethan portunity. Members rep-Detroit emphaplan to launch phase two of the camworthy of the CEO of On a different spectrum, erating paign resent many professional in the winter to inform and engage sized its commitment to global issues by the Year Award he just reon anti-littering, community rehosting the Detroit TED Countdown 2023 backgrounds, including Ivory residents ceived, “ said Prof. James and neighborhood pride.” economics, Summit, making it clear that the city isn’t law, public mation- sponsibility, C. Mays, who teaches just about entertainment but also about With the city taking charge of freeway safety, health and wellt just entrepreneurship and anticmeaningful discourse and change. cleanup within Detroit’s boundaries, ness, arts and culture and o cer- ipate supply managea notablechain transformation in cleanliIn the world of sports, the resurgence of media. They their s them ness. Regardless of past jurisdictions ment at WCCCD’s Corpo- - be it the Detroitleverage Lions has been nothing short of experiences and expertise county, or city -“In the collective iew of state, rate College. his 27 senti- impressive, their string of victories enhancof theatresidents is clear: highways the city’s appeal to sports enthusiasts. to ing make recommendand ex- ment years WCCCD, Dr. the Ivery need a facelift. After all, we call this city Now, with the 2024 on NFL Draft on the tions to the governor e that home, hasandelevated WCCCD it reflects our pride andto identity. horizon, it’s evident that this isn’t just critical issues affecting ecause become recogGiven the nationally antiquity of some of these another event. It stands as a testament to the Black community. what highways, nized specialized for excellence and For care is essential. Detroit’s renaissance and the direction in create instance, many sections of I-94, being an To innovation and preparing which it’s headed. learn more Amidst aboutthis cascade of presentprofessionsteep and treacherevents the significance of every- older ourfreeway, students BLAC andand thisprogress, upcoming ous slopes. Navigating these areas demands highway cleanup shines. These highways entire ally and personally to do event, visit www.michiboth expertise and specialized equipment to are the literal and metaphorical pathways great things in the world.” gan.gov/BLAC. ecause ensure safety and efficacy. to the city’s heart, and as Detroit’s story
Cleanup
Curtis Ivery
age Department, “This Fall and into next year, DWSD is supplementing our sewer cleaning crews with a contractor to clean catch basins in the neighborhoods. The goal is to clean the entire sewer system, 2,700 miles of public sewer, and the 90,000 catch basins in a five-year rotation. Again, this effort is to ensure the current system is operating to full capacity, while we work on upgrades and stormwater projects.”
ent costs, and we should be funding the needs of children in this state, not simply the number of children.” Section 31A funding is financial resources for economically disadvantaged children, funding that has increased 86 percent in two fiscal years. Marking a pot of $512 million in 2022 to $952 million in 2024. “We know that children growing up poor have greater needs on average than
in the state. We remain billions of dollars underfunded in public education in the state.” As school districts like Detroit wrestle with improving attendance numbers, the state is making efforts to invest in these chronic challenges with additional financial support. Additional education funding is supporting children with disabilities and students learning the English language.
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But it’s not just about cleaning; the city is championing a broader beautification project. This initiative will contribute significantly to environmental health, facilitating the removal of approximately four tons of carbon over its lifespan. This past spring saw the inception of this beautification drive, particularly in the Wyoming stretch of the I-96 area. The city has ambitiously planted about 1,100 trees and 2,000 shrubs. Beyond just aesthetic enhancement, this green initiative holds the
unfolds, it’s clear that making a strong first impression is paramount. Detroit’s narrative is one of resurgence and undeniable tenacity. As the city readies to host global events and welcomes international visitors, there’s a unified ambition to show the world its true spirit. The highways, once marred by neglect, are on a path to reflect the city’s innate vibrancy. In this renaissance, Detroit isn’t merely cleaning its roads—it’s redrawing its identity for the world to see.
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A3 | October 18-24, 2023
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Comerica Cares volunteers at The Farm at Trinity Health. Comerica Cares volunteer program was recently recognized nationally by the American Bankers Association for positively impacting the community.
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Nationally Recognized Comerica Cares Volunteer Program Showcases Impact on National Day of Service
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omerica Bank started its National Day of Service in 2008 as a way for employees to demonstrate their commitment to the communities that they serve.
This year, Comerica colleagues across its markets throughout the country worked with volunteer coordinators to collectively make an impact. The projects vary by state, in California, some employees volunteered to do beach cleanups. While back here in Michigan, activities varied by community. In Oakland County, volunteers worked at The Farm at Trinity Health to pack food that goes to patients who are struggling with food insecurity.
“On that day alone, we prepared and packaged 150 pounds of food which equates to 130 portions or 130 meals,” said Patricia McCann, Comerica Bank Vice President of Social Impact and National Employee Volunteer Program Manager. In metro Detroit Comerica Cares volunteers supported Operation Hope, Forgotten Harvest, Gleaners Community Food Bank, Ronald McDonald House and the Parade Company. McCann talked about the importance of the National Day of Service and how it is beneficial not just for the community, but for company employees. “The impact on the colleagues is substantial,” McCann explains,
“These are not necessarily just projects that we support, but these are projects that our colleagues support--that are personal for them. So it gives them a sense of fulfillment. Also, we know that research says that engaged employees are happier employees and they appreciate when companies are supporting their passions, as well.” McCann notes that the National Day of Service is unique because all employees participate all the way up to the company’s executive management team. Being able to connect with senior leadership in person is also fulfilling for employees. This year’s National Day of Service also coincided with the company’s United Way campaign. Over the past years, Comerica has regularly donated more than $1 million annually to the United Way of Southeastern Michigan as part of the bank’s annual giving. The National Day of Service aligns with Comerica’s core values. The value of A Force for Good represents the very spirit of Corporate Responsibility at Comerica. “I believe that the National Day of Service is also represented by One Comerica as well--because while we are acting as a force for good--we are also working together as one,” McCann expanded. Comerica Bank and its commitment to building stronger
See NATIONAL DAY OF SERVICE page A-8
Detroit Black College Expo Opens Door to Higher Education Historically Black Colleges and Universities have provided nearly twice as much college access to low-income students than other colleges and universities. For over a century, HBCUs have helped African Americans and their families enjoy higher incomes, greater intergenerational wealth, better health care, and enhanced quality of life. To provide more opportunities, Comerica has partnered with the National College Resources Foundation to present the 2023 Detroit Black College Expo. The Black College Expo offered student attendees and their families access to college information and a chance to explore post-high school opportunities in an up-close and personal setting. This year’s event provided opportunities for many high school students to have their college application fees waived – as well as chances to earn acceptance and receive scholarships to some colleges on the spot. The day was filled with energy, interaction, informative seminars and workshops for students and their families. “The Black College Expo and the National College Resources Foundation’s steadfast commitment provides transformative opportunities to connect youth to higher education,” said Linda Nosegbe, Comerica Bank Vice President and National Community Impact Manager. “NCRF offers a pathway to deliver critical resources and improve student access to help them thrive. We are proud to support The Black College Expo and the NCRF in the effort to inspire and empower our youth to dream and succeed.” Comerica Bank’s partnership with NCRF is
Local student meets with representative from Jackson State University at 2023 Detroit Black College Expo. the latest in a storied history of alliances with Black and minority-owned businesses and nonprofits nationwide, to provide financial education, small business support, pandemic relief and more. The Black College Expo seminar topics included How to Find Money for College-Financial Aid, Grants & Scholarships, 411 for Student Athletes, Why Attend an HBCU, Real Talk “College vs High School,” Booming Careers and even entrepreneurial workshops. National College Resources Foundation (NCRF) is a nonprofit educational enhancement organization, with corporate offices in California
with a broad national reach. NCRF’s mission is to curtail the high school dropout rate and increase degree and/or certificate enrollment among underserved, underrepresented, at-risk, low-resource, homeless and foster students. They are driven by a vision to close the gap in educational achievement, workforce and economic disparities with the goal to end racism and racial inequality. The foundation was created in 1999. The first Black College Expo in 2000 in California with over 35,000 people in attendance. Since then, they have hosted more than 200 college expos nationwide, including 49 virtual events during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
They have also helped more than 600,000 students get into college and secured more than 4 billion dollars in scholarships and grants for students. “We are so excited to partner again with Comerica Bank,” said Dr. Theresa Price, Founder and CEO of NCRF. “I truly feel the Comerica team shares the same passion and commitment to help underserved and underrepresented future leaders become their best selves. Together we are working together to close the gap in educational achievement, workforce, and economic disparities. We know that events like the Detroit Black College Expo bring hope and opportunities to our community.” HBCUs are continually exploring new academic programs, investing in student support services, and updating technologies to remain competitive and provide the best education possible to their students—even with limited resources. While the Detroit Black College Expo is over, the mission continues. The NCRF directly impacts over 200,000 students served annually by providing resources, college access, and educational services to ensure academic equality and opportunity for students in need. Donations contribute to the NCRF scholarship fund. How critical funding has been used has also proven successful with over 95% of NCRF’s scholarship recipients completing college and earning at least their bachelor’s degree. As Dr. Price told CBS News in an interview, “I just want them to know that there are good things out there and they can do anything.”
Page A-4 • michiganchronicle.com • October 18-24, 2023
American Bankers Association #BanksNeverAskThat Helps Protect Consumers Against Fraud
The American Bankers Association and banks across the country, including Comerica Bank, launched the 4th annual #BanksNeverAskThat consumer protection campaign in recognition of October’s National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. ABA’s #BanksNeverAskThat anti-phishing campaign has helped educate millions of bank customers and consumers across the country on how to spot common scams from bad actors posing as their bank.
Every day, thousands of people fall victim to fraudulent emails, texts and calls from scammers pretending to be their bank. In fact, a recent analysis from the Federal Trade Commission shows that bogus bank fraud warnings were the most reported scam to the agency last year, and consumers reported losing $330 million to text message scams in 2022, more
than double what was reported in 2021.
“America’s banks have already reached millions of Americans with the #BanksNeverAskThat message, and this year will be our biggest yet,” said ABA President and CEO Rob Nichols. “We’ve got a host of compelling new educational content including resources for Spanish-speaking bank customers, so we can help even more consumers beat scammers at their own game.” This year’s campaign includes an updated BanksNeverAskThat.com, a new interactive quiz for consumers, and a Spanish language website and content available at BancosNuncaPidenEso.com. ABA and participating banks will share videos, eye-catching graphics and consumer tips on social media, bank websites, ATM screens and bank branches across the country to help educate consumers.
Executives from American Community Developers, Inc., City of Detroit, Comerica Bank, Michigan State Housing Development Authority, U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development, and other equity investing institutions at Brush Watson ribbon cutting ceremony.
Comerica Bank Invests in American Community Developers Brush Watson Affordable Housing Development
In an ongoing commitment to increase affordable housing availability in the community which it serves, Comerica Bank joined American Community Developers, Inc. (ACD) among its equity partners to officially open the new Brush Watson Development in Detroit.
HOW RED FLAGS SHOW UP IN PHISHING SCAMS EMAIL SCAMS 1. Unusual Email Address. Slow it down. Does that look like an email address your bank would use? Be wary of unexpected emails from addresses that aren’t like the ones your bank typically employs.
Comerica’s equity investment in the $49.2 million project assists in providing 99 affordable housing units at Brush Watson, which is currently a comprised of two buildings at 434 and 454 Watson. Those 99 units offer residents rent and income restrictions ranging from 30% to 80% area median income. The remaining 25 units are market-rate housing.
2. M isspelled Words: Spot check! If you see misspelled words or odd grammar, they are all clear signs of an impersonator. Real banks use spell check. 3. S care Tactics. Don’t panic. If an email uses scare tactics, such as urgent warnings of account closure or security breaches, you can safely assume it’s a scam. 4. Suspicious URLs. Hold up — banks will never ask you to log in via email. Phishing emails use deceptive URLs to take you to malicious websites. Never click links that you weren’t expecting. 5. U nexpected Attachments. Something’s phishy, because real banks will never send an email attachment — especially when you didn’t ask for it. Attachments can contain
malware that can compromise your computer or personal information. Never click on attachments from emails supposedly from your bank.
TEXT SCAMS 1. S trange Phone Numbers. Slow it down. Is that the number your bank usually uses to send text messages? Legit text message updates come from an official 4-5 digit number used by your bank. 2. U rgent Warnings or Requests. Take a breath. Phishing texts try to create a sense of panic, such as threatening to suspend your account or urging you to log in to verify. Real bank texts won’t.
The first two completed buildings that comprise the Brush Watson development offers affordable housing units consisting of studio, one bedroom, and two bedroom homes. Once a third building is completed, more than 50% of the approximately 300 housing units will offer affordable housing options. 5. S uspicious Links. Banks rarely — if ever — send links via text. Don’t click them. Instead, verify the message by visiting your bank’s official website, or calling the number on the back of your card.
PHONE SCAMS 1. Unusual Caller ID. While caller ID can be spoofed, legitimate calls from your bank are more likely to display an official phone number or a known identifier. If not, be very skeptical.
4. Calling you unexpectedly. Be very skeptical of calls you receive out of the blue. Normally, bank representatives
“We are very excited to complete these buildings and to demonstrate what high-quality, mixed-income housing can look like,” said Jerry Krueger, American Community Developers president and founder. Built in Detroit’s historic Brush Park neighborhood and centrally located between Downtown and Midtown, Brush Watson is located just a few blocks north of the City’s entertainment district and east of Woodward Avenue. Brush Watson is within walking distance of Ford Field, Comerica Park, Little Caesars Arena and Eastern Market. Among its amenities includes a community space, a rooftop terrace, onsite underground parking and electric vehicle charging stations. “In Detroit, we are building a city where people can afford to live in any neighborhood, including the most rapidly developing ones like Brush Park,” said Mayor Duggan. “Thanks to Jerry Krueger and American Community Developers, nearly 100 more families of low to moderate income will be able to live in this beautiful new development with access to an incredible array of sports and entertainment options, as well as cultural and dining offerings.”
2. Scare Tactics or Threats. Phishing calls rely on a sense of urgency. If the caller pressures you into immediate action or threatens negative consequences, just hang up and call the number on the back of your bank card. 3. Asking for Personal Information. Banks will rarely ask for your account number, PIN, or password during a phone call — and will never ask for a one-time login code. Never share such confidential details unless you’ve called the number on the back of your bank card.
“For 174 years, we have invested in Detroit, including through community outreach and community development lending and investments, said Steve Davis, Comerica Michigan Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan speaks at market president. “Like the official opening of the $49.2 million American Community De- Brush Watson housing development in velopers and the City of Detroit, just a few blocks north of the Detroit, we passionate ly city’s entertainment district. believe that removing the barriers to affordable housing empowers and strengthens our community, and that is why we have made it one of our core community development initiatives. “We believe in Detroit and its future, and we will continue investing in accessible, affordable opportunities to help the communities we serve.”
3. O dd Grammar or Spelling Mistakes. Spot check! If you see misspelled words or odd grammar they are all clear signs of an impersonator. Real banks use spell check. 4. R equests for Personal Information. If a text message requests personal or sensitive information, such as account numbers, PINs, passwords, or social security numbers, you can assume it’s a scam.
Brush Watson will provide a new, three-building housing development that also includes a portion of ground floor commercial space. The first two buildings of the development officially opened October 4.
will only reach out if you initiate contact first. Stay safe by ending the call and dialing the number on the back of your bank card.
PAYMENT APP SCAMS
Comerica’s community development relationship with America Community Developers first began in 1992 when the bank first partnered with ACD to assist as the equity provider for an affordable housing development in Detroit’s Elmwood Park District. American Community Developers, Inc. is based in Harper Woods, Mich., and is considered a leader in the development and preservation of affordable housing across the United States. ACD leads Michigan and Detroit as one of the top affordable developer/ owners in the State.
1. Unexpected Requests
Other ACD projects in Detroit include Left Field and the redevelopment of the Clement Kern Gardens site with the City of Detroit as part of the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Choice Neighborhoods Initiative.
Be cautious if you receive unexpected requests from strangers or organizations asking you to send money through a payment app. This is a scammer move. 2. Sending Money to Yourself If someone who claims to be your bank says you have to send money to yourself, you can be 100% certain it’s a scam. Banks never ask that. 3. Overpayment Claims Be skeptical if a sender claims to have accidentally overpaid you through Zelle® and requests a refund of the excess amount. Scammers use this tactic to trick you into sending them money. 4. Suspicious Links If you receive a payment app-related message that contains a link, never click it. Scammers often send links to fake login pages to steal your username and password.
5. Pressure and Urgency Scammers attempt to trick you by creating a sense of urgency. If they mention unforeseen emergencies, unverified transactions, account suspension, or unsolicited prize winnings, it’s a scam.
HOW TO RESPOND IF YOU’VE FALLEN FOR A SCAM.
1. Contact your bank by calling the number on your card. 2. Change your passwords and visit IdentityTheft.gov.
3. Report the scam to the FTC (https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/). 4. If you lost money, file a police report.
One of two completed buildings of the American Community Developers Brush Watson complex that will offer studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments with 99 affordable housing units.
National Hispanic Heritage Month Game Changers As a part of the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Tigers ongoing series, in partnership with Comerica Bank, and in celebration of Hispanic Heritage, four highly decorated Detroit-area community leaders have been recognized for their positive impact on the Detroit community. Their philanthropic work has created an inclusive environment for all in their respective fields. Game Changers series honors community members who are making a real impact on young community members, businesspeople, and others throughout their careers. Each honoree receives a $1,000 grant dedicated to the charity of their choice from the Detroit Tigers and Red Wings. Since its inception in 2021, $64,000 has been contributed to local organizations committed to improving Metro Detroit communities. Awardees during 2023 Hispanic Heritage Month include: Freedom House Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth Orozco-Vasquez, Centro Multicultural La Familia President & Chief Executive Officer Dr. Sonia Acosta, Southwest Detroit Business Association President & CEO Laura L. Chávez-Wazeerud-Din, and Latin Americans for Social and Economic Development (LA SED)Chairman of the Board Jane C. Garcia.
A5 | October 18-24, 2023
Money.
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Property is Power!
Exploring the Low Black Homeownership Gap: Are Lenders and Banks Culpable? Homeownership is often hailed as the quintessential American dream, a symbol of financial stability, and a means to accumulate intergenerational wealth. However, this dream remains elusive for many Black Americans, as they grapple with a significantly lower homeownership rate compared to their white counterparts. This disparity in homeownership rates, along with the undervaluation of homes in predominantly Black neighborhoods, has far-reaching consequences, contributing to Anthony O. Kellum the racial wealth gap. The Disparity in Homeownership Rates The statistics are stark: as of the latest available data, Black Americans maintain a homeownership rate of only 46.4%, while their white counterparts enjoy a much higher rate at 75.8%. This disparity raises critical questions for me about the underlying causes, accountability, and potential solutions to this enduring issue. Are lenders and banks culpable for perpetuating this divide in homeownership? Historical Context: A Legacy of Systemic Racism To understand the root causes of the low Black homeownership gap, it is imperative to recognize the historical context of systemic racism in the United States. The racial wealth gap is not an isolated phenomenon but rather a product of deeply ingrained inequalities that date back centuries. From the horrors of slavery to the Jim Crow era’s segregation policies and the discriminatory practice of redlining, Black communities have been systematically marginalized, economically disadvantaged, and deprived of opportunities for wealth accumulation. The Role of Lenders and Banks While systemic racism is the overarching cause of the low Black homeownership rate, lenders and banks have played a significant role in perpetuating this disparity. Historically, Black individuals and families were subjected to discriminatory lending practices, known as redlining, which systematically denied them access to mortgage loans and homeownership opportunities. Redlining was a policy that involved categorizing neighborhoods based on their racial composition and systematically denying loans or offering them at higher interest rates to Black applicants in predominantly Black neighborhoods. This practice effectively barred Black families from purchasing homes in desirable areas, where property values appreciated over time. Although redlining was officially banned through legislation like the Fair Housing Act of 1968, its consequences continue to reverberate. Subsequent predatory lending practices, such as subprime mortgages, disproportionately affected Black borrowers and contributed to the housing market crash of 2008. The aftermath of this crisis had a devastating impact on Black homeowners, leading to a loss of wealth and further exacerbating the homeownership gap. Contemporary Challenges Black applicants still face hurdles in accessing mortgage loans on equitable terms. Studies have shown that Black applicants are more likely to be denied mortgage loans, even when they have similar financial profiles to white applicants. Discriminatory lending practices, such as steering Black borrowers into higher-cost mortgage products, persist in various forms, perpetuating
See HOMEOWNERSHIP GAP Page A-6
Closing the Wealth Gap:
MDBBA’s Small Business Investment Program Empowers Metro Detroit’s Black Entrepreneurs By Lynzee Mychael MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST
Generational wealth, often considered the lifeblood of financial stability and prosperity, is a complex and multifaceted concept in the United States. It represents the wealth and assets passed down through generations within a family. These assets can take numerous forms, including cash, stocks, bonds, investments, real estate, and family businesses. This accumulation of wealth has far-reaching implications, not only for individual families but also for society as a whole. While generational wealth can be a source of financial security for some, it also plays a central role in the increasing concentration of wealth, further exacerbating the racial wealth gap. According to an official 2023 memo from the City of Detroit Legislative Council Policy Division, Black people in America have about a $1.3 trillion gross national income, but only 2% of that money, about $26 billion, is recirculated in the Black community. This stark reality underscores a significant challenge facing the Black community in the United States and prompts reflection on the importance of wealth circulation in order to close the wealth gap. David Whitaker, Director, Research and Analysis, writes, “In Detroit, the nature and degree of wealth among the African Americans has evolved over our history and was shaped by systemic racism and discrimination that limited opportunities for economic mobility and wealth creation.” Wealth circulation, often referred to as the “multiplier effect,” is the process through which money spent within a community continues to recirculate, stimulating economic growth and finan-
cial stability. In thriving communities, wealth typically cycles through local businesses, organizations, and individuals, fostering prosperity and opportunity for all. In Detroit, generational wealth, primarily derived from owning homes and receiving insurance benefits, encounters obstacles linked to the swift turnover of funds within the African-American community. “Looking at Detroit’s wealth and economy from an African American perspective, we must acknowledge that Detroit is the city with the largest percentage of Black residents in the nation,” Whitaker writes. “During the great migration when many new Detroiters settled into the area on Detroit’s lower eastside known as Black Bottom, housing was segregated, due to real estate steering, redlining and racial restrictive covenants, preventing Black families from buying homes and accessing credit. Therefore, at this time, the overwhelming majority of African Americans rented.” While generational wealth has the potential to be a tool for prosperity and economic security, it is essential to recognize the disparities that exist, particularly along racial lines. The racial wealth gap is a pervasive and deeply ingrained issue in the United States. It is a consequence of centuries of systemic racism, discriminatory policies, and economic inequalities. Whitaker explains, “There were approximately one hundred thousand Black people living in the area and three hundred Black owned businesses, including but not limited to, Bars, restaurants, Doctor offices, Barber shops, Hair Salons, Hotels, and Drug Stores.1 In Detroit, during the early 1900’s, generational wealth for Black families could be found in the form of a business or skilled trade
handed down to the next generation. In the 1940’s when Black Bottom and Paradise Valley were destroyed in the name of urban renewal, many of the hopes and dreams of generational wealth for Black families in Detroit were also destroyed.” The vast majority of African Americans in the city have historically had limited access to resources and opportunities, making it more challenging for them to accumulate and pass down wealth. The economic challenges faced by the African-American community have resulted in a cycle of poverty and a higher dependence on social safety nets, further limiting their ability to build generational wealth. However, in the resilient spirit of Detroit, the city is actively seeking innovative approaches to bridge this wealth gap. Most notably, a renewed emphasis on entrepreneurship and business ownership has emerged as a promising avenue to achieve this goal. The Metro-Detroit Black Business Alliance (MDBBA) has launched a groundbreaking program aimed at promoting financial security and wellness among the region’s small business community. The Small Business Investment program, backed by a generous $1 million grant from Prudential Financial, will provide $2,500 investment accounts on the Stackwell digital investment platform to up to 200 small business owners, employees, and entrepreneurs who are active members of the MDBBA. Investing in stocks has long been recognized as a vital means of building wealth over time and securing financial stability, particularly for retirement. However, data from the Federal Reserve reveals a significant disparity in stock ownership between Black and White Americans. While more than half of
See WEALTH GAP Page A-6
Navigating Financial Wellness During the Holiday Season: Tips for Black Families By Lynzee Mychael
Utilize Affordable and Homemade Gifts Gift-giving is a significant part of the holidays, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Consider giving meaningful and thoughtful homemade gifts or opting for affordable presents. Handmade gifts often carry more sentimental value and can be a fantastic way to bond with your loved ones. Encourage your family to focus on the thought behind the gift rather than its price tag.
MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST
According to a 2023 consumer survey conducted by PwC American, consumers are expected to boost their spending by a solid 7%, allotting an average of $1,530 for various expenses, including gifts, travel, and entertainment. The trend of robust summer travel will extend into the winter season, with travel-related spending anticipated to surge by a noteworthy 12% compared to the 2022 holiday period. Nearly 40% of consumers plan to increase their overall spending from the previous year, with those having household incomes of $120,000 or more surpassing an average expenditure of $3,000. The increase in spending comes as no surprise, as we’ve moaned all summer at the thought of the increased cost of living. As the air outside grows cooler and leaves descend, it serves as a reminder that the holiday season is swiftly approaching—a time of potential stress for many Black families. However, before you dip into your hardearned money for gifts, holiday gatherings, and costly costumes, this is a golden opportunity to reorganize and approach these expensive seasons differently than in the past. It’s an optimal time for families to reassess their financial well-being and take proactive steps towards a brighter financial future. With careful planning and mindfulness,
Explore Frugal Traditions Black families have a rich cultural heritage, and many holiday traditions are deeply rooted in this heritage. Instead of costly holiday activities, consider exploring frugal traditions that are just as meaningful. This might include storytelling, music, and dance, which can be enjoyed without straining your budget. you can navigate financial wellness during the holidays while preserving the spirit of the season. Want to engage in some mindful holiday planning? Here are some great financial wellness tips that everyone should be mindful of this holiday season! Set Financial Boundaries The holiday season can bring pressure to overspend on gifts and parties. It’s essential to set clear financial boundaries and stick to them. Communicate openly with your loved ones about your budget, and encourage
thoughtful, cost-effective celebrations. Remember that the true meaning of the season is about spending quality time with family and friends, not extravagant gifts. Prioritize Savings Prioritizing savings is a year-round endeavor, but it’s especially crucial during the holiday season. Consider starting a holiday savings fund earlier in the year to alleviate the financial burden. Alternatively, look for creative ways to save, such as participating in group gift exchanges or using cashback rewards for holiday purchases.
Take Advantage of Sales and Discounts The holiday season is a prime time for sales and discounts. Be on the lookout for Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals and take advantage of these opportunities to save on your holiday shopping. Shopping smartly can significantly impact your overall spending. Avoid Excessive Debt It’s easy to get caught up in the holiday spirit and overspend, leading to credit card debt. Be cautious about using credit exces-
See HOLIDAY PLANNING Page A-6
Page A-6 | October 18-24, 2023 | michiganchronicle.com
Holiday Planning From page A-5 sively, as it can lead to financial stress in the new year. If you do use credit cards, have a clear plan to pay off the balance as soon as possible to avoid high-interest charges. Encourage Financial Education Financial education is an asset for Black families during the holiday season. Teach your children the importance of budgeting, saving, and making wise financial decisions. The holiday season can be an excellent opportunity to instill financial responsibility in the next generation. Seek Support and Resources If you find yourself in a financially challenging situation during the holiday season, don’t hesitate to seek support and resources. There are numerous community organizations and assistance programs that can provide help with food, gifts, and other essentials, ensuring that your family can still enjoy the holidays without added financial stress. Navigating financial wellness during the holiday season for Black families requires careful planning, setting boundaries, and prioritizing meaningful traditions over ex-
travagant spending. By creating a realistic budget, encouraging thoughtful gift-giving, and embracing frugal traditions, you can enjoy the holiday season without straining your finances. Remember that the true spirit of the holidays is rooted in the love and togetherness you share with your family, not the price tags on your gifts. As you embark on your journey to navigate financial wellness during the holiday season, remember that the power to make meaningful and joyful memories doesn’t come from overspending. It arises from the love, warmth, and togetherness you share with your family and community. By being mindful of your finances and focusing on what truly matters, you can create a holiday season that is not only financially responsible but also filled with the priceless joy of the season’s true spirit. In the end, financial wellness during the holidays is not just about managing your budget but about making the most of the precious time you have with your loved ones. By following these tips and maintaining a healthy perspective on the holiday season, Black families can ensure that this special time of year is memorable for all the right reasons.
PHOTO SOURCE: (c) Buccina Studios / iStock via Getty Images Plus
How Families Can Protect Generational Wealth
(StatePoint) A home is often the most valuable asset a family can own. It serves as a wealth-generating opportunity for current and future generations as the home’s value appreciates over time. Yet, for hundreds of thousands of people who inherited their land and homes from family members, these assets could be at risk. Many families have experienced problems with properties that have been passed down without a will or estate plan. These properties are referred to as heirs’ property. If the deed for a property is in the name of the deceased relative and a will does not exist, it results in a “fractured” or “tangled” title shared among all multiple family members or “heirs.” This makes it difficult for heirs to maintain and manage the property in several ways, like securing a loan or selling the property. Additionally, heirs’ property owners are often cut off from accessing governmental repair and rebuilding programs and property tax relief programs. A key driver of heirs’ property is a lack of formal estate planning. Unfortunately this issue disproportionately impacts Black and Latino Americans. According to a 2023 national survey from Caring.com, only 29% of Black and 23% of Hispanic respondents had a will or other estate planning document, compared to 39% of white respondents. “In some families, money, and particularly estate planning, is a taboo subject, but it needs to be discussed. Assets can easily be lost if steps aren’t taken to protect them,” says Stacy Spann, head of Housing Access and Affordability Philanthropy at Wells
Fargo. “One of the ways we can help close the wealth gap in many communities is by empowering people to maintain home ownership from one generation to the next.” Here are some tips to get you started: 1. Start planning today. You do not have to be older or wealthy to create an estate plan. 2. Take an inventory of all your assets. 3. Create a will. You will want to provide specific instructions on your wishes for all your assets. 4. D esignate beneficiaries. You can set up beneficiary designations for your banking and investment accounts, personal property and real estate. Wells Fargo’s Heirs Property Initiative is providing $3.6 million in grant funding to 20 organizations across the country to support work addressing issues of fractured or tangled titles. Housing and legal assistance nonprofits are offering free access to resources designed to keep families in their homes and on their land so that homeownership is preserved for future generations. These resources include legal assistance for people who need help creating a will or who are already facing heirs’ property challenges, as well as expert advice about tangled titles, estate planning, real estate taxes and more. Beyond building generational wealth, taking steps to protect it is essential. With proper planning, diligence and time, you can pass down assets to loved ones that will open the door to new opportunities and advantages.
Wealth Gap
The Small Business Investment Program is open to all races and ethnicities, welcoming both existing and new members of the MDBBA to apply. The application deadline for this groundbreaking initiative is November 17, 2023. The launch of the Small Business Investment Program is a significant and welcome development for Metro Detroit’s Black business community. It represents a positive step toward narrowing the racial wealth gap, empowering small business owners and entrepreneurs, and promoting economic inclusivity in the region. By providing the necessary resources and support for these individuals to build financial stability and lasting wealth, this initiative is poised to make a lasting impact on the local community. Generational wealth is both a source of economic security and a reflection of historical inequalities. By working together to create a more equitable economic landscape, Detroit can take a significant step toward bridging the racial wealth gap and ensuring that generational wealth becomes a source of opportunity for all its residents.
From page A-5
White Americans own equities, this figure drops to just one-third for Black families. The Small Business Investment program aspires to rectify this imbalance by enhancing investment confidence and participation within Metro Detroit’s small business ecosystem, ultimately serving as a catalyst for inclusive economic growth in the region. Trevor Rozier-Byrd, CEO of Stackwell Capital, emphasized the significance of the program, stating, “Black-owned businesses are a growth engine for the economy and community, yet they continue to face challenges in accessing funding and opportunities to grow. For many, the unavailability of business capital leads to a greater reliance on credit cards and personal funds. This, in turn, impacts one’s credit and the ability to access business capital in the future. Through this program, we hope to end this cycle and enable more members of the Metro Detroit Black small business community to achieve greater personal and business financial stability so that they can sustainably grow their businesses and their wealth over time.” The program’s launch is a significant step in addressing the deeply entrenched racial wealth gap, as Charity Dean, president and CEO of the MDBBA, pointed out. She highlighted that systemic and structural racism has given rise to an unequal racial wealth gap, which is the largest of all economic disparities in the United States, according to the National Bureau of Economic Research. The Federal Reserve’s findings are equally alarming, showing that White households, on average, hold eight times more wealth than Black households. This figure magnifies to a staggering 17 times for the Millennial and Gen Z population. Prudential Financial, a key partner in this endeavor, sees the program as an opportunity to make a positive impact on Detroit’s small business community. Shané Harris, vice president and head of social responsibility at Prudential Financial and president of The Prudential Foundation, noted, “Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities, and this program aligns with our commitment to expand access to wealth-building pathways for the Metro Detroit community and for all our stakeholders.”
Homeownership Gap From page A-5 the racial disparity in homeownership. In Summary The low Black homeownership gap is a complex issue deeply rooted in the historical legacy of systemic racism in America. While lenders and banks are not solely responsible for this disparity, they have played a substantial role in perpetuating it. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach, including policy reforms, increased access to affordable housing, and enhanced enforcement of fair lending practices. It is essential to acknowledge that progress has been made, but much work remains to be done to rectify the historical injustices and systemic biases that continue to hinder Black Americans’ access to homeownership and the accumulation of wealth. Ultimately, achieving true equality in homeownership and wealth will require a concerted effort from all sectors of society, including lenders, banks, policymakers, and the broader community.
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michiganchronicle.com | October 18-24, 2023 | Page A-7
Ex-Detroit Police Chief James Craig Announces Run for Michigan Senate Seat addition to “the state of our economy, crime rates, fentanyl poisoning, we should not have an open checkbook for Ukraine,” Craig also touches on how the Biden administration is handling the current war in Israel. “I feel like this country is going in the wrong direction and it affects all of us.” Furthermore, given Michigan’s political trajectory since Trump’s 2016 win, where it has gradually emerged as a secondary battleground, how will both parties navigate this evolving terrain? The upcoming Senate race is already burgeoning with potential candidates from both sides of the aisle, all vying to fill the void left by Sen. Stabenow’s forthcoming retirement. With six Democrats and six Republicans officially in the mix and another, Peter Meijer, mulling over a possible entry, Michigan’s political scene is nothing short of dynamic.
By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
In a move that reverberated across the political spectrum, James Craig, the former Detroit police chief, has announced his intent to run for Michigan’s open U.S. Senate seat in the upcoming election. Craig’s declaration comes on the heels of his disqualification from the Republican primary for governor last year — a contentious decision that arose from a fraud scandal and his failure to obtain enough valid signatures to get his name on the ballot. This recent decision has injected new energy into a primary landscape already fraught with division and contention. The GOP’s recent history in Michigan is checkered with losses. The selection of candidates aligning closely with former President Donald Trump’s divisive rhetoric, especially regarding the election conspiracy theories, has not always fared well. How might Craig’s affiliation with this sector of the party affect his chances? Mike Rogers, a Republican figure with significant establishment backing and known for his criticism of Trump, is already in the running. Contrasting sharply, Craig seems poised to embrace Trump’s vision if his campaign announcement is any indication. The video montage he used prominently featured clips from conservative talk shows, including commendations from former Fox News host Tucker Carlson. Given Craig’s commendable four-decade career in public service, how will these affiliations play out in the broader electoral landscape? Detroit, under Craig’s leadership as the police chief, became a beacon for how to navigate the treacherous waters of racial justice protests, managing to largely sidestep the widespread civil unrest seen in other cities. While Craig’s leadership style was lauded by many Republicans and Detroit citizens, it wasn’t without its detractors, especially among local activists. Will his tenure in Detroit help or hinder his political aspirations? Craig’s earlier foray into the gubernatorial race saw him leading the pack. However, a scandal involving fraudulent signatures on nominating petitions halted his momentum. Craig later praised Democrat Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel for her diligence in arresting those involved in the malfeasance. “The consulting firm that I hired; I never knew they subcontracted out signature gathers. They hired individuals, one of which had prior felony convictions forging signatures in another state and I had no way of knowing that,” said Craig. “So, the key this time around is to make sure we hire a reputable firm. But I’ve moved away from that and I’m looking forward to this race.” Will voters remember this bipartisan
gesture or the scandal that necessitated it? When Craig was queried about his specific plans for the Black community, which has historically been categorized among underserved communities, his response was both multifaceted and insightful. He accentuated the areas of education, crime, and the economy. However, his reference to “Black-on-Black crime” raises critical questions about his perspective on crime and racial dynamics. Does Craig’s use of this term suggest a narrow viewpoint on crime within the Black community, or is it a call to address internal issues that have long plagued urban areas? “What is common in Black and Brown communities is higher crime and in many cities crime has gone up because there are no consequences for their actions,” stated Craig. “And there are other factors that contribute to that like education and single parent homes. That does affect the Black communities.” Furthermore, how does he plan to address these issues in a manner that doesn’t perpetuate harmful stereotypes but instead fosters unity, understanding, and growth? On the education front, what are his strategies to bridge the evident disparities faced by Black students? “Most of my time in the field was in minority communities and one of the grandest problems in underserved communities here and around the state, is education. If you can’t read and write then you may not be able to get a job so, focusing on education has to be an important part of what I want to accomplish.” And regarding the economy, what measures does Craig propose to ensure that Black businesses and entrepreneurs receive the resources and support they need to thrive? “The three things that impact the Black communities are essentially, ed-
ucation, crime, and community. In no necessary order because the education system is broken, Black-on-Black crime is certainly always at an unacceptable rate, and then you talk about economy, taxes, and inflation. The American Dream of buying a home now is just that – a dream.” Craig’s focus on these areas is commendable, but the intricacies lie in the execution and depth of understanding. Craig’s recent communication with officials from Donald Trump’s presidential campaign regarding his senatorial aspirations introduces a myriad of questions and implications for the political landscape in Michigan. As Craig contemplates replacing Sen. Debbie Stabenow, who has held her position for two decades, one wonders about the extent and nature of Trump’s influence on his campaign. Craig’s tenure as the police chief during the turbulent Black Lives Matter protests, particularly in the aftermath of George Floyd’s tragic death, was not without its controversies, as evidenced by the passionate public reception during his gubernatorial campaign announcement. The 67-year-old Craig, identifying as a conservative populist, has expressed intentions of bipartisan collaboration on pivotal issues like immigration, national security, and law and order. But how will his past, marked by a short-lived gubernatorial campaign tainted with issues of forged signatures, impact his senatorial bid? And with the Republican establishment already endorsing former Representative Mike Rogers, does Craig’s underdog status serve as a testament to his resilience or a forecast of impending political challenges? “Why not now? Look at the events of today, border security which there is none,” Craig points to the fact there are essentially open borders in
Among the Democrats: Nasser Beydoun: A political moderate and Dearborn businessman with roots in the American Arab Chamber of Congress. Zack Burns: An Ann Arbor attorney with a laser focus on housing, health care, and education. Hill Harper: An actor and attorney with a compelling personal journey, including a cancer diagnosis and subsequent appointment by then-President Obama. Leslie Love: A former state lawmaker with significant legislative achievements. Pamela Pugh: With a background in public health and current presidency of the Michigan State Board of Education. Elissa Slotkin: A current U.S. Representative with a history in defense and intelligence. On the Republican side: Michael Hoover: Emphasizing strong families and fiscal responsibility. Peter Meijer: A one-term Congressman known for his vote to impeach Trump. Sherry O’Donnell: Advocating for medical freedom. Mike Rogers: A seasoned political figure with a varied career. Nikki Snyder: A strong proponent of parental rights in education. Alexandria Taylor: Switched from the Democratic Party and has a focus on “family, faith, and freedom.” J.D. Wilson: Prioritizing tax cuts and a reduction in federal government size. With such a diverse and dynamic roster, the upcoming election promises to be a political spectacle. The pertinent question remains: Which of these candidates will resonate most with Michigan’s diverse population? And where does James Craig fit in this intricate jigsaw? Only time will tell.
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COMERICA
IN THE
COMMUNITY
COLLEAGUE SPOTLIGHT
Tobi Walker
As a Compliance Risk Analyst, Tobi Walker performs analysis in managing risks in existing operations resulting from industry lawsuits, settlements, etc. associated with regulatory violations. She notes that her job is about checking and double-checking loans to protect both the consumer and the bank from risk. In another role, Walker is a member of Comerica’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Education Council. As part of the council, she works to help bank employees learn to work better together. Her work exemplifies her favorite of Comerica’s Core Values: One Comerica. Like many Comericans, Walker has a passion for service. Her work on the DEIE Council has been rooted in educating others through the process of learning and unlearning things they may have grown up understanding about marginalized communities.
United Way of Southeastern Michigan President and CEO Dr. Darienne Hudson (in red) and Comerica Bank Vice President and Senior Project Manager Regina Mitchell (in blue) interact with students at STEMpossible in Detroit.
Tobi Walker
Approximately 650 fourth and fifth grade students from several schools in southeast Michigan converged at the Michigan Science Center in Detroit for a field trip that delivered a hands-on STEMpossible experience.
“People that are on the (autism) spectrum, people who may have different abilities, who maybe visually challenged, or whatever encompasses that neurodiverse universe, we want to be that soft cushion to create that psychological safety in the workplace so they know the least they have a group that they can join or be a part of.”
Tech United STEMpossible reaches 650 Metro Detroit Students The student engagement was a result of the United Way of Southeastern Michigan’s Tech United initiative, that includes a dedicated group of chief information officers and IT professionals from local enterprise companies. Tech United has committed to closing the digital divide and increasing STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) opportunities for students.
Walker was instrumental in the development of a new Comerica affinity group, All Allies, All Abilities that helps to serve the neurodiverse population.
The group is key because not all disabilities are visible. Creating a group like this allows some Comericans to feel safe in self-identifying and getting the resources that they are due. Walker notes that growth in diversity, equity, and inclusion at Comerica is key in “opening up a dialogue and making people feel comfortable enough to ask uncomfortable questions or have uncomfortable conversations in a respectful way so that we realize we are more alike than we are different.”
STEMpossible offered engaging activities from building their own LEGO tower to interacting with industry and field experts. Among Tech United corporate partners is Comerica Bank, led by Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer Bruce Mitchell, who also serves on the Tech United Advisory Board. Comerica technology team members and Comerica Cares volunteers hosted a STEM Career booth and a STEM classroom session in programming robots. The career booth allowed students to test their knowledge on the vast number of STEM career options. Participants also learned how to program robots using sequencing.
Students learn coding through hands on engagements with Dash and Dot Wonder Robots.
Tobi Walker (second from left) with fellow Comerica Cares volunteers at Forgotten Harvest in Oak Park. Most recently, Walker--along with dozens of other Comericans-- participated in the company’s National Day of Service. She shared that as her third year packing food at Forgotten Harvest, one thing that sticks with her is how packing food for those in need should still mean that they retain their dignity. “We have to sort it and make sure that it’s okay to pass along to someone. And if I wouldn’t eat it, or I wouldn’t buy it, I’m throwing it away. Just because people are in need, doesn’t mean that you give them just anything.” Like many other Comericans, Walker also volunteers teaching financial education. For her, it’s The BIG Institute--which stands for “Birthing Innovative Geniuses.” In one program, she teaches young people a game of life where they have to pay bills--support their spouses and children, and occasionally treat themselves. “They realize, Oh, so when mommy and daddy tell me ‘that’s not in the budget.’ They really mean is not in the budget. We’re not saying no because we want to be mean to you. We’re saying no because we at this time, we can’t do that and you also get to eat!,” she says with a laugh.
Comerica Technology team members and Comerica Cares volunteers at Tech United’s STEMpossible event at Michigan Science Center.
Comerica Celebrates Detroit’s History at The Wright Gala 2023 Comerica Bank colleagues joined Detroiters at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History for The Wright Gala 2023, Masks of the Diaspora Masquerade Ball, that supports the museum’s mission, vision, and programming. The annual gala impacts the quality and scope of the Charles H. Wright Museum’s future educational activities, literacy initiatives, and public programs. The evening provided an opportunity to connect, dine, and dance, as well as offering a sneak peak at the Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design exhibit that opened October 10. Southeast Michigan External Affairs Manager Kevin WatAlong with its annual support, Comerica’s Senior Vice Presi- kins, Regional Retail Director Larry Bryant, retired Senior dent and Regional Retail Director Larry Bryant also serves on the Vice President Linda Forte, Assist. Vice President-DEI board of trustees. Employee Engagement & Strategic Partnerships Wendy Retired Comerica Bank senior vice president Linda Forte and Holmes, and National Community Impact Manager Linda husband, Tyrone Davenport, were honored for their philanthrop- Nosegbe at the Charles H. Wright Museum The Wright ic contributions to the success and sustainability of The Wright. Gala 2023.
Comerica Supports Wayne State University’s CLLAS Scholarship Program Through the Michigan Hispanic Business Resource Group (BRG), Comerica served as a sponsor of Wayne State University’s Center for Latino/a and Latin American Studies’ 52nd Anniversary Celebración on Friday, September 22nd. Funds raised from the event supports Wayne State University Center for Latino/a and Latin American Studies’ program to award scholarships to low- and mid-income students who are pursuing academic degrees at Wayne State University. The mission of the program is to transform the university, and positively impacting the community, by providing equitable access to a quality university education to students interested in U.S. Latino/a and Latin American cultural studies while enhancing diversity on campus.
Comerica colleagues and members of the Michigan Hispanic Resource Group at the Wayne State University’s Center for Latino/a and Latin American Studies’ 52nd Anniversary Celebración.
Walker herself is a mother of two teen daughters who she calls her greatest teachers—perhaps second to her father, who she says is her “Fun Fact.” “I am the daughter of one of the founding members of the Four Tops—Obie Benson,” Walker says, proudly. She says growing up, she thought everyone’s father was on TV. But, she also remembers that her father would tell her and her siblings, “I’m in the Four Tops…You’re not.” That meant that he expected them to earn and pay their own way while also affording them opportunities and support. “My father didn’t raise us to be privileged. I was taught to always give back.” And as a Comerican, Tobi Walker has done just that.
For more information on how Comerica colleagues are giving back to our community, visit www.facebook.com/Comerica.
National Day Of Service From page A-3
communities earned national recognition last month as the American Bankers Association (ABA) Foundation named the Comerica Cares program a recipient of a 2023 ABA Foundation Community Commitment Award. In 2022 alone, Comerica combined to: ■ Conduct volunteer projects with colleagues assisting area nonprofits and community partners, amassing more than 66,000 volunteer hours which translates to nearly $2 million worth of donated time. ■ Reach more than 80,000 low- to moderate-income individuals during its Comerica $ense financial education sessions. ■ Host more than 2,000 in-person, virtual and hybrid Comerica Business $ense Workshops in diverse communities and in multiple languages, including Spanish and Arabic. Entries for the ABA Foundation Community Commitment Awards were submitted for consideration across seven categories: affordable housing, community and economic development, financial education,
economic inclusion, protecting older Americans, supporting military families and volunteerism. Award winners were chosen by nationally recognized experts in each field. The selection committee chose the winning banks based on the creativity and thoughtfulness of programs – traditional or innovative in nature and structure – that embody the ideals of corporate social responsibility and demonstrate success in making an impact. “Comerica is built on relationships, those with our customers, colleagues and local communities,” said Wendy Bridges, Comerica Executive Vice President of Corporate Responsibility. “Our colleagues continue to rally behind our efforts to build strong and sustainable communities fueled through volunteerism. We believe colleagues at all levels of our organization gain valuable and relevant community insight through volunteering to make a difference in their community.” McCann explains further, “Comerica Bank prides itself on being members of the community and the way our volunteers view giving back because we know for our business to succeed, our communities must as well.”
City ity.. Life ife.. Style. B1 | October 18-24, 2023
Where City Meets Life and Life Meets Style
michiganchronicle.com
Preserving Michigan’s Natural Heritage: The Role of the Michigan Wildlife Council
By Lynzee Mychael MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST
Michigan, also known as “Great Lakes State,” is home to a rich backdrop of natural wonders, from its pristine forests to its shimmering lakes and abundant wildlife. Preserving this natural heritage is not only a matter of ecological importance but also a testament to Michigan’s commitment to future generations. Established in 2013, the Michigan Wildlife Council (MWC) is at the forefront of this mission, tasked with educating the public about the significance of wildlife conservation and its role in safeguarding Michigan’s outdoor legacy. The MWC’s Mission and Objectives At its core, the Michigan Wildlife Council is entrusted with the vital task of raising public awareness about wildlife conservation in the state. Its primary objectives are to promote an understanding of the importance of conserving Michigan’s wildlife and natural resources, emphasizing the role of hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts in this noble cause. This nine-member public body was established through Michigan Public Act No. 246 of 2013, a testament to the state’s commitment to preserving its natural splendors. Since its inception, the council has been dedicated to fostering a sense of responsibility and stewardship among the citizens of Michigan towards their natural environment. Beth Gruden has been a member of the council for the past six years and serves as a dedicated advocate for the state’s agricultural community. With certification as a plan writer for the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Beth Gruden brings invaluable expertise to the table. Her advocacy and understanding of Michigan’s wildlife ecosystem is the perfect combination to help residents understand hunting, fishing, and the economic impact wildlife has on our state. The Role of Hunting and Fishing in Wildlife Conservation Hunting and fishing activities play a pivotal role in maintaining balanced wildlife populations and preventing overpopulation. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the agency primarily responsible for wildlife conservation in the state, employs carefully regulated hunting seasons to keep wildlife populations in equilibrium with their habitats. “Carefully regulated hunting seasons keep wildlife populations in balance with their habitat. In addition, the majority of the important wildlife management work the Michigan DNR does is funded through the purchase of hunting and fishing licenses and equipment,” said Gruden. This financial support from hunters and anglers enables the state to invest in programs that benefit the entire ecosystem. The DNR takes numerous factors into consideration when planning wildlife management strategies, including the needs and desires of the public, as well as changes in the natural environment. These considerations ensure that wildlife populations remain healthy and that Michigan’s ecosystem thrives.
The Sky’s the Limit:
Detroit’s Tuskegee Airmen Flight Academy By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
T
o many, the mere mention of the Tuskegee Airmen evokes a sense of pride, determination, and pioneering spirit. Their indomitable will against both adversarial forces in the sky and racial discrimination on the ground remains one of America’s most significant wartime narratives. Today, the spirit of these heroes lives on in Detroit’s Tuskegee Airman National Museum Program – the Tuskegee Airmen Flight Academy. So, what if I told you that Detroit is offering an opportunity not just to learn about aviation but to be part of a legacy? The Tuskegee Airmen Flight Academy is not your ordinary flight school. Designed for youth aged 14 to 19 with dreams of soaring the skies, this program delves deep into aviation’s technicalities while also paying homage to an intricate part of our history. The Acade-
my offers year-round flight instruction and ground school classes, all of which culminate in earning a private pilot license. And the financial burden? Minimal. Most students are only responsible for books and FAA exam fees. Larry Sergant, Vice President of Tuskegee Airman National Museum, stated that a typical ground school to prepare for a pilot license usually runs for $20,000, but they have scholarships available to pay for the pilot licenses. This Academy recently achieved a monumental feat, obtaining the State of Michigan’s certification as a Part-61 Flight School. “A lot of the teens get their pilot license before they go off to college, and they go into airline or engineering. “Essentially, they’re ahead of the game,” Sergant said. It’s not just about getting teens airborne; it’s about molding them into proficient pilots, opening doors to commercial flying instrument ratings, and even guiding them to become Flight Instructors.
The program begins in the fall each year with a Ground School that prepares candidates for the FAA Written Knowledge Test. And if a student demonstrates excellence, excelling in this foundational phase and acing the FAA exam? Their reward is free flight training come springtime. Classes are diligently conducted every Thursday from 6-8 PM at the Coleman A. Young International (Detroit City) Airport. It’s worth noting that this golden opportunity is inclusive, extending its arms wide to under-represented youth, both male and female. “We also have programs where we educate people on how to be airline traffic controllers and anything in aviation right now only 2-3% of people in the aviation field are minorities and people of color so we’re trying to bring exposure to six-figure outcomes without a college degree,” stated Sergant. The trajectory of aviation education in Detroit has taken an uplifting turn,
See FLIGHT ACADEMY Page B-2
Contributions to Michigan’s Economy The economic benefits of hunting and fishing in Michigan are substantial. These activities not only contribute to the preservation of the state’s natural resources but also play a crucial role in boosting its economic well-being.
See WILDLIFE COUNCIL Page B-2
The Music Hall Expansion: An Encore for Detroit’s Downtown Resurgence By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
Amid the rhythmic pulse of Detroit’s revival, one sound reverberates with particular significance: the ambitious expansion of the iconic Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts. With roots entrenched deep within the city’s cultural tapestry, this latest crescendo is setting the stage for an unmatched urban symphony. Since its establishment in 1928, the Music Hall has been a stalwart symbol of Detroit’s artistic soul. Originally conceived as a lavish movie and entertainment theater, it has, over the decades, transformed into an epicenter of artistic expression and community collaboration. Legends of music, dance, and theater have graced its stage, and with each era, the Music Hall has mirrored Detroit’s cultural evolution. Today, the landmark is ushering in yet another chapter. Seeking $80 million in tax-exempt 501(c)3 bonds, the Music Hall is on the brink of a staggering $122 million expansion right at the heart of downtown Detroit. The stewardship of these bonds falls upon the Economic Development Corp., an arm of the Detroit Economic Growth Corp., while the repayment remains a dedicated responsibility of the Music Hall.
This grand vision plans to metamorphose a parcel of land, which presently serves as parking and outdoor events space, into a monumental 108,000-square-foot edifice. Vincent Paul, the Music Hall’s president and artistic director, detailed the ambitious blueprint: • A state-of-the-art concert arena seating 1,900 aficionados. • A dynamic music exhibition coupled with cutting-edge conference spaces.
• A modern music academy paired with a top-tier recording studio. • Culinary ventures, including a rooftop events venue, amplifying Detroit’s gastronomic scene. The Detroit Economic Growth Corp. documents reveal that these expansions will allow the Music Hall to magnify its cultural and community programs in its Jazz Café, 3Fifty Terrace, and Main Hall. From the current 250,000 annual visitors, the projections soar to 600,000, with 650 annual
events. This development is anticipated to generate 446 new jobs, indicating not just an artistic but an economic renaissance. The rhythms of change resonate throughout Detroit, and the Music Hall stands as a testament to this evolving cadence. Lanard Ingram, the eloquent voice behind the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC), shed light on this symphony of transformation in a recent statement to the Michigan Chronicle. Ingram recalled, “During the EDC’s last board meeting on September 26, board members reviewed a resolution that set in motion a process for the EDC to potentially issue bonds to finance the Music Hall expansion.” He detailed how the EDC had marked out a “project area” and “project district area” and, importantly, sought the mayor’s nod for special board member appointments - vital cogs to initiate the project plan. Taking a brief detour into the annals of Detroit’s history, Ingram elucidated, “The EDC is a public authority established by the City of Detroit in the 1970s in accordance with state law.” But he swiftly drew the distinction between the DEGC’s daily operations and the EDC’s governance by a board “appointed by the mayor and subject to city
See EXPANSION Page B-2
Page B-2 | October 18-24, 2023 | michiganchronicle.com
Flight Academy From page B-1
thanks to a generous $500,000 federal grant awarded earlier this year. The Detroit Tuskegee Airmen National Museum, a beacon of historical significance and reverence for the city has been chosen by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as the beneficiary of this significant grant, aimed at nurturing the dreams of local teens who have their sights set on the skies. Brian Smith, the president of the Tuskegee Airmen National Museum, expressed his enthusiasm and vision for the future beneficiaries of this grant. He remarked, “Getting your driver’s license at 16 has always been an exciting rite of passage for teenagers. Today, we are giving them the chance to do more than drive a car around town. We’re giving them the opportunity to learn how to fly a plane around the world and launch into a future as American aviators.” The resonance of this statement is not just in its promise but in its profound impact, offering teens not just a skill but a transformational journey that could shape their futures. Sergant echoes Smith’s sentiment as he admitted, “Some of these teens are trailblazing! They have pilot licenses before a driver’s license, “We have ten kids right now aged 14-16, they have their pilot license to fly an aircraft, but they can’t drive a car – but they can fly an aircraft.” The uniqueness of this grant is also highlighted by the fact that Detroit stands as the sole recipient in Michigan, a testament to the city’s commitment to honoring aviation history and fostering the next generation of aviators. The Detroit Tuskegee Airmen National Museum plays a pivotal role in ensuring this legacy. It stands not just as an educational institution but as a hallowed space that pays homage to the valiant pilots and crews who risked their lives during World War II. Detroit houses three significant museum locations that further underscore the rich tapestry of its history and dedication to honoring African-American achievements. These include the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, which provides a comprehensive look into the Black experience in America; the Detroit
Wildlife Council From page B-1
Gurden explained that “Every time a person goes hunting or fishing in Michigan it helps boost Michigan’s economy. Hunting and fishing has a $11.2 billion impact to Michigan’s economy each year. In addition, it generates 171,000 jobs annually. This takes into account hunting and fishing equipment purchases as well as all our lodging and dining along the way.” Hunting and fishing activities generate a long list of jobs annually, providing employment opportunities to a diverse range of individuals. From outfitters and guides to restaurant workers and hospitality staff, these activities have a far-reaching impact on Michigan’s labor market. Staying Informed and Engaged For those interested in learning more about the Michigan Wildlife Council’s work and staying updated on conservation efforts and opportunities in the state, the council’s website, HereForMiOutdoors.org, is a valuable resource. Through this platform, individuals can access a wealth of information about Michigan’s wildlife, outdoor activities, and conservation initiatives. It also serves as a hub for those who wish to get involved in preserving Michigan’s natural heritage. In a collaborative effort, the Michigan Chronicle and the Michigan Wildlife Council have joined forces to educate the community about the benefits of and dispel misconceptions regarding our state’s wildlife with informative videos. Don’t forget to explore Michigan Chronicle’s social media platforms for useful nuggets of knowledge that you can easily share with your loved ones. Through various educational channels, the Michigan Wildlife Council is dedicated to ensuring that Michigan residents stay well-informed and motivated to protect our state’s natural legacy. The Michigan Wildlife Council’s mission to educate the public about wildlife conservation and its commitment to preserving the state’s outdoor legacy are vital com-
Expansion From page B-1 council consent.” Ingram’s emphasis on procedure was evident when he stated, “The EDC (not the DEGC) can only issue bonds if there is an approved ‘project plan’ per state law.” And yet, amidst the procedural details, he highlighted the cultural beacon that is the Music Hall. For over a century, he reminded us, it has been “a cultural pillar in Detroit.” With its proposed expansion, Ingram envisions a venue revitalized to “educate future generations, nurture local talent and host a variety of events.” He concluded, painting a picture of the future, “The expansion would also create construction and permanent jobs and possibly spur development in the surrounding area.” And in a gesture of collaborative spirit, he expressed, “We look forward to receiving input from the City Council and community on this project.” It’s evident – Detroit’s Music Hall, under the watchful eyes of visionaries like Ingram, is set to strike a new, invigorating chord. The DEGC has initiated the process to issue the requested bonds. As part of this, the board voted this week to designate specific “project” areas that would undergo
City Airport, a symbol of modern aviation’s strides; and Historic Fort Wayne, a bastion of military history. Together, these institutions provide a panoramic view of Detroit’s dedication to preserving, educating, and inspiring, and with this new grant, the future looks even brighter for aspiring young pilots in the city. Now, pause for a moment and reflect: What does it mean for Detroit’s youth, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, to be given not just wings but roots that tether them to a legacy of greatness? The Tuskegee Airmen were not just pilots; they were pioneers, shattering stereotypes with every flight mission during World War II. In a society that doubted their capabilities due to their race, they showcased resilience, skill, and bravery, becoming symbols of black excellence in a segregated military. To be part of such an Academy means not just learning the art of flying but understanding the weight of history beneath those wings. But the cherry on top? Smith, a living testament to the Tuskegee Airmen’s legacy, is guiding these teens. Under his tutelage, students are being molded into future leaders, imbued with a spirit of resilience and greatness. Detroit, a city often only acknowledged for its past grandeur or challenges, holds a treasure that many might be unaware of. The city has a wealth to offer, especially for our youth, and programs like this are testimonies to its commitment to shaping futures. After all, what better way to steer our Black youth into a path of greatness than by linking their ambitions to a legacy as powerful as the Tuskegee Airmen? So, I pose this question: In a world that frequently underestimates them, how might our youth’s trajectories change when given a chance to soar, anchored by a history of resilience and excellence? The Tuskegee Airmen Flight Academy is more than a program; it’s a bridge from the past, an opportunity in the present, and a beacon for the future. As our society pushes forward, seeking to provide equal opportunities and eradicate biases, we must remember and embrace endeavors like the Tuskegee Airmen Flight Academy. Here, in the heart of Detroit, the sky isn’t just the limit—it’s the beginning. ponents of Michigan’s identity. With the continued support of hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts, as well as the broader public, Michigan can look forward to a future where its natural wonders are preserved for generations to come. The Way Forward: A Shared Responsibility Preserving Michigan’s natural heritage is not the sole responsibility of the Michigan Wildlife Council; it is a collective endeavor that requires the participation of all Michiganders. Whether you are an avid outdoor enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply a resident who values the state’s beauty, there are several ways you can contribute to these conservation efforts: Support Conservation Organizations: Consider donating to or volunteering with organizations dedicated to preserving Michigan’s natural heritage. Practice Responsible Outdoor Recreation: Whether you hunt, fish, hike, or camp, always follow ethical and sustainable practices to minimize your impact on the environment. Stay Informed: Stay updated on wildlife conservation issues in Michigan and advocate for policies that prioritize the protection of the state’s natural resources. Educate Others: Share your knowledge and passion for Michigan’s natural heritage with friends and family, and encourage them to get involved in conservation efforts. Participate in Conservation Programs: Take part in wildlife monitoring, habitat restoration, and other conservation programs in your area. Michigan’s natural heritage is a treasure that deserves our utmost care and attention. Thanks to the tireless efforts of organizations like the Michigan Wildlife Council and the commitment of the state’s residents, Michigan’s natural beauty will continue to flourish, providing a legacy that will be cherished by generations to come. Together, we can ensure that Michigan remains the Great Lakes State, not only for its abundant water resources but also for its thriving wildlife and pristine landscapes. changes due to the proposed expansion. Additionally, in an effort to ensure community representation, the mayor will appoint two special board members who mirror the interests and concerns of the neighborhood’s residents and businesses. Notably, one of these appointees, subject to City Council approval, is Hiram Jackson, CEO of Real Times Media, Publisher of the Michigan Chronicle, and an influential member of the Paradise Valley Conservancy Board. The next steps involve a stringent process. After the Detroit City Council’s deliberations on these designations, the Music Hall will present a comprehensive project plan. This plan, after the DEGC board’s endorsement, will be subject to a public hearing before the city council reviews it. It’s imperative to note that this procedure is separate from the site plan and other mandatory approvals, along with the Historic District Commission’s evaluation for the Madison-Harmonie historic district. The project got the green light from the commission at its September 13 meeting, with the caveat that Music Hall returns with the final designs for further review. In sum, as the curtains rise on the Music Hall’s ambitious expansion, Detroit stands poised to celebrate a renewed era of cultural magnificence, underscoring its legacy while embracing the promise of tomorrow.
Get your mammo today Check it off your to-do list You’re busy, but do one thing for you — make today the day you schedule your mammogram, for your peace of mind and the ones you love most. With regular screenings, breast cancer can be found early when it’s most treatable. At Ascension Michigan, our doctors recommend yearly mammograms starting at age 40, or earlier if you have a family history of breast cancer. Choose from flexible time slots and encourage a friend to schedule her mammo today, too. • Digital 3D mammography • Screening and diagnostic mammograms • Breast ultrasound and MRI A 3D mammogram may require an additional fee if your insurance carrier does not cover the full cost. Please check with your carrier to determine if you will be responsible for any of the costs.
Schedule your mammogram today at ascension.org/MichiganMammogram or call 866-585-2033
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michiganchronicle.com | October 18-24, 2023 | Page B-3
How Michigan Dispensaries Like Lume Are Keeping The Cannabis Industry Abuzz
I
t’s been nearly four years since Michigan’s first legal sale of recreational cannabis. And it seems like ever since, our state’s cannabis industry has flourished, bringing dispensary storefronts to every major city and beyond. And this past June, Michigan adult-use marijuana sales hit a record high at $254.1 million.
Lume prides itself in being a beginner-friendly brand, a helpful and approachable resource to both the “cannacurious” and experienced users alike. That means creating enticing storefronts filled with helpful, knowledgeable staff who invite shoppers to explore and discover new experiences fueled by recreational cannabis.
But in the short time it’s existed, the recreational cannabis market has become flooded. With new dispensaries popping up on every corner, it’s become tougher and tougher for sellers to stand out, stay open, and keep their customers satisfied.
It’s not just for stoners anymore. Cannabis brands across the state are developing and curating products that appeal to people who want to enjoy cannabis in many ways—from premium flower to pre-rolls and oils to edibles including gummies, chocolates, and even beverages.
By expanding wherever their customers are. Cannabis devotees live all across Michigan, and savvy dispensaries are making sure to follow. Lume is now selling in over 38 cities, including locations in the Upper Peninsula and in cities borders of Wisconsin and Ohio. Lume also offers free discreet delivery, ensuring Michiganders far and wide can share in the buzz. Lume’s strategy for choosing new locations is responding to high customer demand. This is what inspired Lume to open its newest location on 12 Mile and Woodward in Berkley. Lume has also reopened a nearby store right off I-696 and M-10 in Southfield, which now sells recreational cannabis. Closely listening to its audience has helped Lume grow and expand, so now folks all across Michigan can relax, unwind, and experience the calming effects of cannabis.
Companies like Lume Cannabis Co., a brand headquartered in Troy that quickly became both Michigan’s biggest producer of recreational cannabis and the country’s largest single-state operator, are evolving their businesses to create better product and stand out from the competion. Take a look at how Lume is finding ways to thrive in the recreational bud boom. By making a little something for everyone.
Lume grows all of its flower in a state-of-the-art, 250,000 square foot indoor cultivation facility in Evart and on over 75 acres at its outdoor grow in Prescott. Anyone who enters the growing facility must take special precautions so plants aren’t exposed to pollutants and contaminants, including taking a pre-entry air shower. This process results in approximately 2000 meticulously harvested plants a week.
By refining the growing process. As the cannabis market grows, more regulations have been passed to ensure only high-quality product is hitting shelves. That means that the growers that succeed are the ones that grow cannabis with the right balance of care and efficiency.
To check out Lume’s wide range of premium cannabis products, head to Lume’s Berkley and Southfield store menus, or find one near you at https://www.lume.com/.
Page B-4 | October 18-24, 2023 | michiganchronicle.com
WCCCD hosts Dr. Cornel West, renowned author and orator, during Global Speaker’s Series at the new Culinary Arts and Hospitality Center at the Northwest Campus by David C. Butty
The Wayne County Community College District’s (WCCCD) School of Continuing Education presented its Fall 2023 Global Conversations Speaker Series with the preeminent scholar, philosopher, political and social activist Dr. Cornel West. The event was held at the WCCCD’s new Culinary Arts & Hospitality Center at its Northwest Campus on Outer Drive in Detroit. More than 100 guests representing the business, economic, philanthropic, religious and community leaders, academic
professionals and students participated in an inspiring and engaging discussion complimented by a threecourse meal at the District’s elegant venue, a new state-of-the art conference facility and educational lab venue. Dr. West, is no stranger to WCCCD having served as the college’s 2009 commencement speaker and also as a guest speaker for past global speaker series. Dr. West has also served as the keynote for the 2022 Black Men in Leadership Summit in
Detroit and recently lending his support labor works and the UAW. A critical thought leader having appeared as special guest on CNN, CSpan and Democracy Now, speaker and prolific writer, Dr. West has written 20 books and is best known for his classics Race Matters, Democracy Matters and Brother West: Living and Loving Out Loud. WCCCD’s Global Conversations Speaker Series provides the opportunity participate in sessions with engaging speakers with
diverse perspectives and intellectual observations. To learn more about WCCCD’s upcoming Global Conversations Speaker Series or the new Culinary Arts & Hospitality Center, visit the college’s website at www.wcccd.edu or call 313-4962600.
michiganchronicle.com | October 18-24, 2023 | Page B-5
“The luncheon speaker event today at The View with Dr. Cornel West was a delight. The NW Campus is gorgeous. It is so well maintained and everyone who greets you from the time you arrive until the time you depart was warm, welcoming, and respectful. The room is beautiful, the table settings and food presentation were professional, top quality and delicious. Kudos to the Chef and his amazing staff!” ~ Tina Bassett
“Absolutely a great program today. Excellent speaker with a great message. This is what sets us apart from the rest. Thanks for including us.” ~ James W. Jackson
war. Genocide defined section 1091 &UNECE regs. Master, Mechanical or Automotive resume to is Ref#33041-213, Global Mobility, All qualified vendors are encouraged to bidDesign. on all60City of Highland Park construction projects. Industrial mos exp as Digital Sculptor, Washington-Parks Academy, a Tuition Free PublicinGM School 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, Engrg. 36 mos exp as Engineer, developing Digital Modeler, or related, designing or developing and2023-2024 includes violent attacks with MI 48265. enrollment Academy, announces the period withthe A refundable bid deposit in the form3DofClass certified check, cash, or surety bond payable to the City ofemission Highland Park &releasing evaporative canisters forfor OEMa sum not A surfaces of full vehicle psgr vehicle specific intent to destroy, in whole or in an academic program for K-8 grade. less than five percent (5%) of the amount of the Proposal shall be required withprgrms, each from Proposal. successful will be concept toThe production, &alignedbidder to meet exteriorDetroit cmpnts incl. fascias, Schools grills, head/taillamps, The Public Community District willsafety host(incl. U.S. FMVSS), part, a national, ethnic, racial, or religious performance, &strict Enrollment: 04/01/23 through 06/12/2023. Design Release Engineer - Connectivity required to furnish satisfactory performance, andAlias maintenance and guarantee bonds inOpen the amount of one fenders,labor, ABCD and pillars,materials using adoors, virtual vendor fair&liftgates, for interested Demolition General technical &regional rqrmnts &standards, using NX, Warren, Develop A random selection lottery be MI, held onMotors. June 13th,&integrate 2022. group.will There is General Federal jurisdiction if the AutoStudio, NX &VRED tools, for U.S., global hundred percent {100%) of the Contract price. vehicle telematics &connectivity products, including Contractors on March 23, 2023 @ 9:00 AM. Tc, &Tc Vismockup tools, or related. Mail resume to &emerging markets, or related. Mail resume to core module, towithin provide services based on 2offense OnStar is committed the United Ref#201, GM Global Renaissance The City of Highland Park reservesThe thefair right any using irregularity, to accept or reject anyMobility, or all 300 bids, and to accept the way voice &data communication (2G, 3G, 4G &5G canto bewaive attended the following link: Ref#1827-201, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance States. There is also Federal extraterritorial Lincoln-King Academy Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265. technologies). Utilize engrg tools &processes to proposals that, in the City’s opinion,https://bit.ly/DPSCDDemolitionVendorFair are inMC:482-C32-C66, the best interest ofMIand to the advantage of the City of Highland Park. No bidder may Center, Detroit, 48265. cmpnts &systems for a broad range of 13436 Grove Streetdevelop Detroit, MIEffectively 48235achieve jurisdiction when the offender is a program national withdraw his bid within ninety calendar days after the date of bid opening. vehicle programs. milestones by thorough &rigorous program Phone: (313) 862-2352 As a part of DPSCD’s Facility Master Plan, the Expected of the United States management. Collaborate w/ Network Architects, Bids (Proposals) will not be received unless made on forms furnished by the City of Highland Park and delivered to the City https://www.cornerstoneschools.org/ Demolition Program Release Schedule is: Engineers &Product Mgrs to define, develop Clerk’s office on or before 12:00 p.m. Local on Friday September 23, 2022.michiganchronicle.com DQE FORM: LPN #RE345528665US &integrate vehicle connectivity products w/ 4G, 5G, Vehicle Validation Engineer • 8Time Buildings in 2023/2024 Lincoln-King Academy, a TuitionVoLTE, FreeCellular-V2X Public School Academy, &Emergency Call capabilities into new psgr vehicles. Create ECRs &EWOs using 3 General Buildings inPerform 2025/2026 announces the 2023-2024 enrollment period with an Warren,•MI, Motors. &execute Engineering Change management app. Release parts electrical of BEVsinin2027 GVDP for Vehicle &sw into new distribution channels. Validate Wi-Fi, academic program for: • validation 4 Buildings City of Highland Park OTA, GPS &HMI features. Support OTA SW loading, Motion Embedded Controls (VMEC),about Body upcoming opportunities For additional information 1. K-5 gradesCity at Adams Building Street, service 13130 activation, Grove deactivation, &reBrenda Green, ClerkYoung&OTA Electronics, Active Safety (AS), telematics, Requests for Proposals and Quote are being accepted for: activations. Collaborate w/ external suppliers please visit the District’s Operations, and Procurement Detroit, MI 48235 Department: City Manager’s (includingOffice Tier I &Tier II suppliers) to assess technical &infotainment. Review, analyze &coordinate the feasibility, KPIs, &reqrmnts of new features. websites. 2. 6-8 grades at Lincoln-King Academy 17351 Southfield Fwy, testing &modification of BEV system &cmpnt level SW Participate in system peer reviews &create Location: Ferndale City Hall Survey Design and Analysis Services 2023 (Extended) Operations: https://www.detroitk12.org/Page/17320 interoperable validation plans w/ internal teams for electrical validation of VMEC &AS syss incl. Detroit, MI 48235 &external suppliers in an Agile framework. Master, Salary Range: $98,318 to $122,786 DOQ Long/Short Range https://www.detroitk12.org/Page/8999 Radars, Rear Vision/360/Driver ANNOUNCEMENTS ANNOUNCEMENTS Procurement: 3. 9-12 grades at Lincoln-King Electrical Academy 13436 Grove Streetor or Telecommunication Engineering, Response Due: October 30, 2023 October 16, 2023 monitoring cameras, antennas, Body & Vehicle related. 12 mos exp as Engineer, evaluating electrical FLSA: Exempt/Non-Union Detroit, MI 48235 syss, products, cmpnts, &applications by designing IfIntegration you have questions, please incl. contact the Procurement Control Modules, &features Adaptive Issued: September 18, 2023 NOTICE OF GENERAL ELECTION NOTICE OF REGISTRATION FOR THE &conducting research programs, &confirming systems Open Enrollment: through 06/12/2023. Employment Type: Full-Time04/01/23 Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Autonomous at (313) 873-6531. &cmpnts capabilities by designing testing methods CITY OF HIGHLANDDepartment PARK, MICHIGAN GENERAL ELECTION &testing properties, related.13th, Mail resume to A random selection lottery will be held onorJune 2023. Driving Features, EmergencyLabor Braking, Collision The Mayor’s Workforce Development Board (MWDB) is directly responsible and accountable to the State of Michigan, Ref#1415, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance COUNTY OF WAYNE TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2022 Mitigation, Alerts, &related module &feature validation The City of Ferndale is seeking a dynamic and dedicated Center, MC:482-C32-C66,Assistant Detroit, MI 48265. and Economic Opportunity-Workforce Development (LEO-WD) for the planningNOVEMBER andstatusoversight talent TUESDAY, WAYNE COUNTY, MICHIGAN plans8, for2022 vehicleofprgrms, using PQMS, NX, Manager our team. The Assistant CityAcademy Manager (ACM) Madison-Carver CITYtoOFjoin HIGHLAND PARK vSpy, Teamcenter (Tc), &ECM tools. Perform onCity time development programs in the City of Detroit. Designated by the MWDB, Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (DESC) To the qualified electors of Highland Park: 19900 McIntyrewho Streetwill SWand &HW validation of embedded module Park ECUs,is thru aTOstrategic Financechallenge Analyst andELECTORS leadership-oriented individual THE QUALIFIED OF THE CITY OF is hereby given thattoa General Election will beemployers. held in the CityDESC’s of Highland serves as the fiscal and administrative entity that provides Notice workforce services job seekers Detroit, MI 48219 design/production/SW iteration validations. Bachelor, Motors, Detroit, MI. Assure financial health of DETROIT PEOPLE MOVER/ HIGHLAND PARK: throughout the organization. General Tuesday, November 8, 2022. The polls will be open from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.Transportation at current Detroit People Mover/Detroit Corporation practices The ACM willoperations oversee GM product development &supplier primary funding streams include Workforce Innovation andon Opportunity Act (WIOA), Temporary Assistance toa.m. Needy Phone: (313) 486-4626 Electrical, Computer, Mechatronics, or Mechanical the following polling locations: DETROIT TRANSPORTATION risk management, applying principles PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that any qualified elector of the City 535 Griswold StCORPORATION our program-based budgeting process, 6-yearmanufacturing Capital Improvement Engrg. 12 mos program, exp as Engineer, testing or verifying https://www.cornerstoneschools.org/ of technology evaluation, financial valuation &financial Families (TANF) that funds Michigan’s PATH (Partnership. Accountability. Training. Downes Hope.)Manor employment Food of Highland Park not already registered, may register toavote 535 Griswold St Precinct 1 – District 1 13725 John R analysis. Develop &analyze qrtrly &CY earnings # 400Plan, embedded telematics &infotainmentSte embedded at the office of the City Clerk, the office of the County Clerk, Madison-Carver Academy, a Tuition Public School reports. Monitor commodities &FX market in relation and important initiatives identified in the CityFree Council Strategic Assistance Employment and Training (FAE&T), Wagner-Peyser Employment (ES), Municipal andECUs, other public and private Precinct 2 – DistrictServices 1 Blackwell Complex 12050 Woodward Ste Ave. # 400 using Tc &vSpy tools, or related. Mail to product &investment pricing, trends, &demand. Detroit, MI resume 48226 a Secretary of State branch office, or other announces designated state Academy, enrollment period with 3 &to 4- District Ernest T. Ford Field House, 10 Pitkin Collect, collate, &analyzeto global FX &commodity funding. The Corporation enters into contracts with qualifiedPrecinct entities provide2 workforce development programs and 300MI 48226 Plan.agency. The Registration ACM works withthe the2023-2024 City Manager cultivate to Ref#407-1175, GM GlobalDetroit, Mobility, forms in canconjunction be obtained at mi.gov/vote exposures. Produce &present clear, concise trading an academic program for K-8 grade. Precinct 5 – District 3 Faith Tabernacle Church 16548 Hamilton Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI and mailed to the City Clerk. Voters who are already registered proposals to Treasury Mgr &Dir. to manage services to job seekers and employers. American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Midwest Urban Strategies - Growth2 regional relationships and promote new opportunities for strategic BID # 08-8-2022 REDBID Open Enrollment: 04/01/23 through 06/12/2023. exposures. Execute financial hedges thru capital Precinct 6 – District 3 Healing Spring48265. Church 12647 Hamilton may update their registration at www.expressSOS.com. BID # 07-01-2022 REBID markets as approved &in compliance w/ global Opportunity Grant funding may support contracts resulting from competitive bid process. selection will be held on June 13th, 2023. The ACMA random will focus onlottery providing direction; taking policies. Plan, optimize &secure company capital Electors will be voting for State, County, Judicial, and LocalTransportation candidates, Local School partnerships. The Detroit Corporation Office Contracting The lastofday to register in any manner other than in-person requirements. Evaluate global liquidity needs The Detroit Transportation Corporation Contracting Member and the following Statewideand Proposals: with theof local clerk is Monday, October 24, 2022. Procurement requests proposals fromOffice qualified Contractor/ initiative, and ensuring the policies and procedures arecashininvestment line with City DESC is seeking proposals from qualifiedBoard individuals, organizations and/or firms. &coordinate portfolio including and Procurement requests proposals from qualified firms understanding of cash &liquidity management, PROPOSAL 22-1: A proposal to amend theFirm(s) state constitution requiregeometry annual pubto providetoannual measurements the LIM railwho qualifies After and thisof date, anyone asstandards an elector may Jefferson-Douglass regisCornerstone values furthermore, the of a community thatAcademy seeks to credit facilities, debt management, direct cash flow Bid package for this RFP is availablelicfor download this byDESC website: financial disclosureat reports legislators and other state officers and change rail Senior Sculptor to provide CCTV and network upgrades. This includes height, power rail Design tolerances, running height track gauge. ter toand vote in person with proof of residency (MCL cross border flows, inter-company 6861168.492) E. Nevada , forecasting, Detroit, MI 48234 state legislator term limit to 12 total years inmodernization legislature. funding &compliance &control procedures. Monitor be a benchmark for local government. A strong commitment to public efforts the CCTV system,atPublic (PA) located at 12050 Woodward Ave., the CityAddress Clerk’s office, https://www.descmiworks.com/opportunities/rfps-and-rfqs/. Warren, MI, General Motors. for Plan &perform advanced &forecast cash balances in company IHB to ensure Phone: (313) 892-1860 The initial information and subsequent trending information on (313) 252-0050 ext. 220 at the PROPOSAL 22-2: A proposal to amend the state constitution to add provisions Highland Park, MI 48203 fol- of system, Variable Message Signs (VMS), and Wired Backbone liquidity requirements are met. Develop &maintain service and understanding emotional intelligence surfacing &development Class Aresurfaces https://www.cornerstoneschools.org/ the rateconcepts of change of the ofmeasured parameters of thedemonstrated Detroit relationships with banks, rating agencies &external garding elections. lowing times: Network the MCF, each DPM station, and at of full vehiclesystem, exterior sys.atInterpret &defineat design Detroit Employment SolutionsPeople Corporation Board Mayor’s Workforce Development Board research analysts. Perform finance valuations, such employee engagement concepts are desired. Mover (DPM) will be reviewed utilized as part of Cornerstone Jefferson-Douglass a Tuitioncash Free PROPOSAL22-3 A proposal to amend the state constitution to track establish new in- and–and asAcademy, net NPV, IRR &discounted flowPublic analysis. Regular business hours: Monday – Thursday 9:00 a.m. to intent of designer while directly collaborating w/ substations described herein. David E. Meador, Co-Chairperson Thompson, Chairperson Master, Bus. Admin, Finance, or Accnting. 12 mos the existing detailed maintenance plan to ensure safety9:00 a.m.-School dividualAlice right to reproductive freedom, including rightpackaging, to makehuman all decisions about Academy, announces the 2023-2024 enrollment 4:00 long p.m. term and Friday 1:00 p.m. engineering, factors, &tooling exp as Finance Analyst, Accountant, Team Member, Dr. Darienne Hudson-Driver, Co-Chairperson Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation pregnancy and abortion; allow state to regulate abortion in to some forbid Transportation All bids must be received by and the Detroit and availability the cases; riding public. is Corporation $98,318 to from $122,786 commensurate with experience. period an4:00 academic for K-8 grade. Consultant, or related, monitoring commodities &FX – Saturday, November 5, 2022 8:00with a.m. to p.m. program teams. Design &develop 3D Class A surfaces of Salary prosecution ofWilliams, individualsPresident exercising established right. market in relation to trends &demand, &evaluating FX Dana viabids Bidnet/MITN onBEV or before p.m. (EST) November 7, 2022. Enrollment: through 06/12/2023. conventional ICE,bediesel, &AV full 5:00 vehicle psngr Medical, Dental, Vision, Life,8,Open FSA, and Plans are available. – Election Day, Tuesday, November 2022 from 7:00 Retirement a.m. 04/01/23 to All must received by the Detroit Transportation Corporation hedging policy to minimize risks from currency WAYNE COUNTY PROPOSAL: Wayne County Public Transportation millage: A pre-bid site visitonwill determined at a(EST) later8:00 date, if19, necessary. movements, or related. Mail resume to Ref# car, truck &SUV exterior cmpnts incl. front &rear A random selection lottery will be held on June 13th, 2023. p.m. via Bidnet/MITN orbe before 5:00 p.m. April 2023. A and 39239-104, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance For more information to apply, visit www.ferndalemi.gov/jobs. If approved, this proposal will renew the 0.9949 Millgrills, levied by the Wayne County fascias, headlamps, taillamps, doors,Tranfenders, Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265. pre-bid site visit will be scheduled upon request. Proposals can be accessed on the Bidnet Direct Persons with special needs as defined by the Americans sit Authority for the years 2022 through 2025 and&D will allowskid continued support to beds the A,B,C pillars, plates, liftgates, truck with Disabilities Act should contact the clerk’s office at www.bidnetdirect.com//detroit-transportation-corporation Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation for a public transProposals can be accessed on the313-252-0050 Bidnet Direct &detailed exterior(SMART) cmpnts incl. door handles, mirrors, ext. 220. An equal opportunity employer/program. the elderly, State of Michigan, Laborand and Economic portation systemSupported servingbythe disabled, generalDevelopment, public of Wayne County. www.bidnetdirect.com//detroit-transportation-corporation internals &exhaust tips, using Alias AutoStudio, Workforce Development (LEO/WD). Auxiliary aids and services available uponlamp request to individuals with disabilities. the City Clerk’s office 12050 Woodward 1-800-285-WORK.Full TTY:text 711. of the proposals may be obtained at Maya, &VRED tools, for U.S., global &emerging MikeNX Anderson Brenda Green Ave. Highland Park, MI. 48203 and may beMike viewedAnderson at www.highlandparkmi.gov. markets. Interpret, develop, &perform physical City Clerk Procurement Manager Sample ballots can be found at www.highlandparkmi.gov Procurement Manager sculptures, &evaluate physical surfaces &digital mandersonjr@thepeoplemover.com mandersonjr@thepeoplemover.com sculptures (surfaces to Absentee ballots are available for all elections. Due in toAlias the passage ofmill), the interpret statewide PERSONAL SERVICES
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HELP WANTED
Please visit our 313 963-5522 website for more Doc HARRIS: classified ads. Published
PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED IT Solution Designer
Daimler Truck Financial Services USA LLC seeks an IT Solution Designer in Farmington Hills, MI responsible for serving the business demands of customer units by designing business specific solutions. BS degree (or foreign academic equivalent) in Bus. Admin, Comp./Info. Sci., Information Tech. or rltd. and 60 months of exp. in job offered or related. To apply: please email resume to Diana.taylor@daimlertruck.com. No phone calls, please.
Localization Engineer Warren, MI, General Motors. Design, dvlp, execute, release (internationalize &localize) string &translation packages in XML files &C# prgrmg language, &integrate SW (in Android &Linux OS) for N.A. &global psgr vehicle (current &next generation) infotainment sys Human Machine Interface (HMI) content in Virtual Cockpit Unit (VCU), Center Stack Module (CSM), Instrument Panel Cluster, &Heads Up Display, to improve local &regional customer User Experience (UX), using Git, Gerrit, Jenkins, Bitbucket, Team Foundation Server, MS Visual Studio, &Android Studio tools &VMware workstation Pro. Maintain language translation database &extract data using queries in Structured Query Language from PostgreSQL database, &migrate data to XML &MS Excel. Use extracted data to create, modify, &analyze XML, JSON, &Translation Memory eXchange files. Ensure User Interface localized content availability in 37 languages. Master, Computer Science, Computer Engrg, Automotive Engrg, Electrical Engrg, or related. 12 mos exp as Engineer, Developer, or related, releasing string packages in XML files, &integrating SW, in Android OS, psgr vehicle infotainment sys HMI content in VCU or CSM, to improve local &regional customer UX, or related. Email resume to recruitingreply1@gm.com (Ref#44827).
“While AI and ML have transformed other industries, adaptation has been slow in the care industry, but we’re working to change that,” explains Chia-Lin Simmons, chief executive officer of LogicMark, (NASDAQ: LGMK), which manufactures personal emergency response systems (PERS), health communications devices and remote care and activity monitoring technologies to create a Connected Care Platform, and recently incorporated two-way voice communication technology into its medical alert pendant.
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To help you live safely and comfortably in your home in the years to come, Simmons offers a few strategies for using the newest technology to your advantage: • PERS, also known as Medical Emergency Response Systems, allow you to call for help in an emergency by pushing a button. Wearable pendants – along with water-resistant wall-mounted devices and mobile solutions – can keep you protected in every room of your home by helping you instantly connect with loved ones and emergency personnel. Those offered by LogicMark use AI and ML for pattern recognition and fall detection, for an added layer of security. To learn more, visit logicmark.com. • Automatic pill dispensers can help ensure you never miss a dose or take too much medication. Depending on your needs, you may need to look for a solution offering both visual and audio notifications, or one suited for those with limited dexterity.
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• Motion-sensing lighting can make nocturnal trips to the bathroom – common in one’s golden years – much safer, helping to reduce the risk of dangerous trips and falls. Many lighting options plug directly into outlets, while others are battery-operated and can be installed anywhere. Be sure to include these fixtures in bedrooms, hallways and bathrooms.
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“True independence must be accompanied by peace of mind for you, your family and your caregivers,” says Simmons. “By adopting new technologies, you can help create a virtual safety net, enabling you to stay at home while living in a safe environment and providing piece of mind to your loved ones.”
ballot proposal 18-3, all eligible and registered voters in Michigan may request an ab- clay sketches &drawings, &develop interior &exterior sent voter ballot without providing a reason. Registered electors may obtain an&cmpnts A.V. models of full vehicles (full-sized models) $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED Ballot IN-PERSON atManufacturing the City Clerk’s office(and until 4:00 p.m. on Monday, November 7, cmpnts in steel, carbon fiber, wax, low density Assembly 2022. The Clerk’s office will be open on Saturday, November 5, 2022 from 8:00models, a.m. foam (Renboard), rubber &wood) &scale Process III to 4:00 p.m. for the purpose of issuingEngineer and working receiving Ballots. Requests to have facelifts an Vehicle Dynamics Controls on AV 1-3 new concept psngr vehicles, Product Manager Simulation Engineer absent voter ballot MAILED to you must be receivedElectrical no later than 5 p.m. the Friday &show cars at any one time. 36 mos exp as Sculptor before the election. (November 4, 2022) seeks Detroit Diesel Corporation Manufacturing Maxitrol Company seeks Electrical Product Warren, MI, General Motors. Plan &integrate GM coor Designer, designing &developing 3D Class A in Southfield, MI. Worker will be simulation packages to validate, calibrate, &release To comply with theProcess Help America Vote ActManager (HAVA), voting instructions will be availAssembly Engineer III in Detroit, surfaces of conventional &BEV fulland vehicle psngrof Iembedded will tell you Everything telling me responsible Product Design support control syss SW forwithout. Electronic You Control able in audio format and in Braille. Arrangements forfor obtaining the instructions in exterior cmpnts incl. fascias, grills, lamps, Michigan. This position will vehicle be responsible for Units (ECU) in Model Loopcare (MIL),what Software in problem teamthe members. these alternative formats can be made bycompany contacting clerk inRequires advancebachelor’s of the anything Thee FixerinIthe don’t your doors, fenders, pillars, &liftgates, using AutoStudio, the Loop (SIL), &virtual Hardware in the Loop (VHIL) degree in electrical or related field, planning sub systems and contributing toengineering complex election. All polling locations are accessible for voters with disabilities. senvirons, maybeforI will it with in 72 Hours you will be BEVfix chassis control syss incl. Electronic Maya, &VRED tools, for U.S., global &emerging 36 months experience in electrical product projects which could include: research vendors, Brenda Green, CMC Brake Control Module, Body Control Module, Active production and skills automatic insertionGM and markets, or related. Mailinresume to Ref#455, SUCCEEDFUL in all that you do HELP is Rear Steering, Semi-Active Damping Sys, Electric City create/assist of Highland Park Clerk with technical surface specifications, mount 300 equipment, AOI equipment, Altium Global Mobility, Renaissance Center, MC:482Power Steering, &Traction Control Sys. IntegrateAnytime or HERE.BE BLESSED. Call 313-654-4086 12050 Woodward Ave. Designer and MSMIoffice. C32-C66, Detroit, 48265.No travel required. request select vendors, create simulation cmpts into simulation packages modeled Highland Park, quotations, MI 48203
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Applicants should send resumes and salary (313)timelines, 252-0050 x 220 issue purchase requisitions (coordinate requirements to chope@maxitrol.com. No calls. Company, 23555 Telegraph Road, with Purchasing), schedule Maxitrol tryouts, assist Southfield MI 48033.
for using yourMATLAB, Be Blessed appointment or Write me at: Simulink, Stateflow, AMESim,
&CarSim tools. Use Virtualizer Studio, Vector CANoe, PROPHET REV.Doc Harris Vehicle Spy, ETAS INCA, &Vector Measure Data P.O.Boxvalidate 21765. Analyzer tools to assemble, &release in the qualification, installations, and approve simulation packages for calibration &validation. Detroit Mich.48221 Perform tests on SIL test bench to correlate equipment/tooling for projects; Understand and Beintegrated BlessedbyToday. simulation packages VHIL &Vehicle assist in leading the design and development of Senior Project Engineer Validation teams. Perform SIL snow &ice handling, $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ traction &handling evaluations incl. evasive systems and continuous improvements, among FEV North America, Inc. seeks a Senior Project maneuvers, brake stopping distance evaluations. Engineer based out of our office at 4554 Glenmeade other duties. Up to 5% international/ Master, Mechanical, Automotive, Electrical, Lane, Auburn Hills, MI 48326. Note, this is a hybrid Aerospace Engrg, or related. 12 mos exp as domestic travel required annually. To the apply, position whereby employee will work both from Engineer, planning &integrating co-simulation home and from the aforementioned office address. email resume to Donald Connelly at packages to validate &calibrate controls SW for ECU Hence, the employee must live within a reasonable in SIL, &virtual VHIL environs, for psgr vehicle or commuting distance of the aforementioned office Donald.Connelly@daimlertruck.com. heavy duty machinery control syss, or related. address. This position does not require travel. Duties Mail resume to Ref#53-232, GM Global Mobility, Reference job number DT-9285. include: Develop compression ignition engines, spark-
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ignited engines, diesel engine aftertreatment systems and hybrid powertrain components for on-road and non-road applications; among other duties. Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and three years of experience in the job offered or related. EOE M/F/Disability/Vet. Apply to job reference number 23-00044 at: www.fev.com
Cooper Standard Automotivewww.michiganchronicle.com Inc. has an opening for a Senior Program Engineer in (VIP) Architect Vehicle Intelligence Platform Northville, MI responsible forMI,utilizing Warren, General Motors. Design, dvlp &integrate VIP, Automotive Open Sys Architecture based extensive knowledge and experience in vehicles the w/ ECUs incl. Electrical Architecture, in psgr Advanced Driving Integration Module, Short/Long following engineering disciplines toBlind develop Range Radar, Side Zone Alert, Front Camera Module, connected over CAN, LIN &Automotive programs: GD&T, DFMEA, DVP&R, Ethernet for Autonomous Driving &AS domains, in Agile &SAFe methodologies. Evaluate &execute VIP DMAIC, and 8D. Bachelor’s degree in control functions blocks partitioning, allocation to ECUs, &interfaces designs to fulfill GM psgr vehicle Mechanical, Chemical, Materials, or Autonomous Driving &AS features &subsys performance reqmts. Review Industrial Engineering, or related field ofvehicle functional reqmts documented in SSTS using IBM Rational DOORS 9.6 &DOORS study and 3 years of experience as aNext Generation tools. Analyze diagnostic, serial data, safety &security Senior Program Engineer orof a related impact signals transmitted &received on networks incl. CAN, LIN, &Automotive Ethernet communication occupation. This position requires only little protocols. Master, Mechanical, Automotive, Electrical, Industrial &Syss, Mechatronics Engrg, or related. 12 (<15 days/year) domestic international mos and exp as Engineer, reviewing vehicle functional reqmts using IBM DOORS, &analyzing diagnostic, travel to manufacturing sites. applicant serial data,Any safety &security impact of signals &received on networks incldg CAN who is interested in this transmitted position should &Automotive Ethernet commn protocols, or related. Mail resume to Ref#540-22, Global Mobility, apply to job reference number R015894GMat 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265. https://careers.cooperstandard.com/
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Research Shows New Car Safety Features Chronicle Can Help with Crash Reduction
300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.
Subscribe (StatePoint) At a time Today! when highway fatalities are on the rise, new research shows that the widespread adoption of the latest vehicle safety features could mean fewer crashes and safer roads. However, it could be awhile before we see the full benefits of these advancements.
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Exterior Lighting Animation Integration Engineer Warren, MI, General Motors. Gather technical &aesthetic reqmts from Design Release Engrs &in Bills of Material (BOMs), understand design intent, sys &cmpnt level, &full vehicle exterior lighting choreography vision of Design Studio. Dvlp &update exterior lighting cmpnts performance &functional reqmts using IBM RTC tool, &integrate BEV exterior lighting cmpnts incl. front lamps, taillamps, lit grilles, lit emblems, center bars, side markers, fog lamps, &low &high beams, &related wiring harnesses, Multipurpose LED Drives, &Exterior Lighting Module for full vehicle exterior lighting choreography. Create, execute, review, run, &validate exterior lighting animation cmpnts SW files incl. Approach Vehicle Animation, Exit Vehicle Animation, Sequential Turn Animation, State of Charge Animation, &Charge Status Indication Animation to meet Design Studio, Exterior Lighting &Vehicle Program styling, performance, electrical, &optical reqmts, &in compliance w/ U.S. FMVSS 108, Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108, Europe (UN ECE) R48, R148-150, &China (Guobiao GB4785) standards. Bachelor, Electrical, Electronics &Communication, Mechatronics, Mechanical Engrg, or related. 36 mos exp as Engineer, gathering technical &aesthetic reqmts from engrs &in BOMs, understanding design intent, sys &cmpnt level, &full vehicle electrical or body exterior vision of Design Studio, &dvlpg docs, incl. performance &functional reqmts, for psgr vehicle exterior lighting or ECU feature HW specs incl. wiring harnesses, or related. Mail resume to Ref#2400-204, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.
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“With drivers holding onto their vehicles for 10 years or more, it could take many years before the fleet fully turns over,” says Rini Sherony, senior principal engineer, Toyota Collaborative Safety Research Center. But what if every vehicle on the road was fully equipped with crash-prevention features? And how do engineers identify which new vehicle safety features to prioritize next? To find out, Toyota Collaborative Safety Research Center and Virginia Tech teamed up to research the potential benefits that different safety systems have in various crash scenarios. The team took real-world crashes and reconstructed the data, performing multiple crash simulations. They started modeling with more traditional “passive” safety features, like the latest vehicle structures, and extended their work to include such technologies as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot warning, etc. Assuming full deployment and optimal acti-
(Family Features) Your nose is essential for conditioning the air you breathe and serves as the first line of defense against dust, pollution, bacteria, viruses and more. The presence of these substances in your nasal passages can trigger infections, disease and illness. Proper nasal hygiene involves keeping your nasal passages clean, clear and moisturized, enhancing your nose’s ability to function and reducing congestion that can disrupt breathing or cause irritation. However, the nose is one of the most overlooked body parts in daily hygiene routines, according to a survey of 2,000 adults conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Xlear, with 54% of respondents saying they’ve never considered the role their noses may play in their overall health, and more than one-quarter (29%) admitting they ignore cleaning their sniffers. “Keeping the nose clean is important because essentially all respiratory problems begin there,” said Dr. Lon Jones, D.O., certified osteopathic family physician and expert for Xlear, a leading manufacturer of xylitol-based products in North America. “With its connections to the ears, sinuses, eyes and lungs, it acts as a nidus, a nest from which bacteria and viruses spread to other parts of the body.” Consider these tips to improve nasal hygiene and keep upper airway passages clear. Practice Good Hygiene: Simple practices like covering your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough, avoiding touching your face and washing your hands regularly can help reduce the amount of bacteria that enter your body through your nose. Wash Your Nose: To help fight germs related to bacteria that cause allergies and viruses, rinse your sinuses
vation of safety features, such as those that were modeled, their research showed that over half of all U.S. crashes could be avoided and nearly 60% of moderate to serious injuries could be mitigated. At the same time, the research also identified what types of crashes are likely to still occur even if these safety features were deployed. The research center has made the study’s data, found at toyota.com/CSRC, publicly available so that automakers, policymakers, technology research universities and tech companies can work together to continue to make safety gains and fill the crash prevention gap. “While drivers can’t avoid every danger on the road, our research shows that safety systems have the potential to be very effective in reducing the risk and severity of crashes,” says Sherony. “It’s important to know that most automakers offer features like lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, audio warnings and steering assist (often with additional functionality). When you search for your next car, consider these features, even possibly opting for those that do not come standard-equipped. We hope that as drivers continue to adopt and use such technologies, we will be able to realize more of the accident mitigation and prevention benefits that they can offer, resulting in safer roads for everybody.”
daily with a solution such as Xlear, the makers of which also created National Wash Your Nose Day. Featuring the power of xylitol, a natural ingredient that does not allow bacteria to adhere to nasal airway tissue, the natural sinus care system not only cleanses but can help people of all ages with fighting congestion; opening airways; blocking debris, allergens and viruses; and pulling moisture to hydrate dry, irritated nasal tissue. “By nose washing daily with xylitol, we support our nasal defenses in their attempts to flush away threats, resulting in reduced problems and a proactive approach to promote nasal health and hygiene,” Jones said. Keep Your Sinuses Moist: Drinking plenty of water is good for overall health and helps keep your nasal passages moist and mucus flowing properly. Another step you can take is using a humidifier in your home, especially in the bedroom, to help maintain moisture. Remember to regularly clean the humidifier or it could have the opposite effect. Avoid Pollutants: Exposure to pollutants and allergens may result in swelling or congestion in the upper airway. Whenever possible, you should avoid cigarette smoke, cleaning products, hairspray and other materials that give off unnatural fumes. Also beware of dust, mold, pet dander and pollen, which are common allergens that can cause sinus problems for many. Be Kind to Your Nose: When blowing your nose, gently blow one nostril at a time as forceful blowing can irritate the nasal passages and propel bacteria back up into your sinuses. Also avoid removing nose hairs, or do so carefully, as they naturally help filter dirt and debris. To find more solutions to keep your nose healthy, visit xlear.com.
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Keep Your Home Office Organized for Increased Productivity (Family Features) When temperatures creep up again, it signals time for an annual tradition: spring cleaning. While big projects like windows are hard to overlook, don’t forget smaller areas that need attention, too, such as your home office.
space – it’s simply an invitation for clutter.
❖ Place items you rely on frequently, such as a calculator or ruler, within arm’s reach so they can easily be put away between uses. Capture these items in containers and bins to keep the space looking neat and free of clutter.
5 Simple Solutions for Proper work and clutter can take some serious time, ❖ Establish a filing system that lets you keep Are You a Medicare Rookie? especially as many people have been working Making sense of a year’s worth of paper-
Hygiene from home more than normal, but getting orgaPros Can Help You Find RightNasal Plan nized can help you tackle home management
(StatePoint) Roughly 4.4 million Americans will reach the age of 65 in 2024, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. While age is just a number in some respects, this particular birthday marks the time when Americans become eligible for the federal Medicare health insurance program. And if you’ll be hitting this milestone soon, you’re in good company, as athlete, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Earvin “Magic” Johnson will be doing the same. “I’ve been a rookie a few times in my life, but this time, I’m new to Medicare,” says Johnson. Medicare is the government health insurance program for Americans 65 and older, and those under 65 with certain disabilities, providing hospital coverage (Part A) and physician visits (Part B) to those who qualify. During this year’s Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), which takes place between Oct. 15-Dec. 7, 2023, rookies and pros alike can hone their health insurance selection game plan with a little coaching. That’s why Magic Johnson got these tips from Cigna Healthcare, which serves millions of Medicare customers nationwide:
1. Don’t delay. Medicare has a seven-month window around your 65th birthday called the Initial Enrollment Period. Enrolling outside this window could result in higher premiums on Medicare Part B for the rest of your life. However, if you’re still working, you may be able to keep your current plan, depending on the size of your company, and switch to Medicare without penalty when you retire. If you’re not working and you’ve already filed for Social Security, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B when you turn 65. 2. Know what’s covered. Medicare Parts A and B are sometimes called Original Medicare and cover hospital and physician expenses. To cover things like dental, vision, hearing and pharmacy, you may opt for a Medicare Advantage plan (also known as Part C), which covers everything that Medicare does and provides additional benefits, including, in many cases, prescription drugs (also known as Part D). Assessing your budget, health needs, doctor preferences and lifestyle will be important in making the best choice for you. 3. Read the fine print. Before signing up for a particular plan, make sure that your favorite health care providers are in its network. While you may be able to go out of network for care, be prepared to pay more if you do. You’ll also want to factor in all the associated costs of a given plan, including monthly premiums, co-pays and deductibles, as well as the prices and rules around the prescription drugs you take. 4. Get help. Turn to resources and platforms that can help ensure you understand the plan you’re enrolling in. Call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) 24/7. TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048. Or, visit the Medicare Plan Finder website at Medicare.gov/plan-compare. For local assistance, refer to the State Health Insurance Assistance Program at www. shiptacenter.org. You can also contact individual Medicare plans, including Cigna at CignaMedicareInformation.com. 5. Use your benefits. For optimal health, make full use of your plan’s benefits. In particular, be sure to get the wellness checks and preventive screenings needed for your age and health status. If your plan offers extra perks, such as fitness or nutrition programs, take advantage of them. “If you find out that the plan you signed up for last year is not the right fit, lean into the experts about what works best for you and make changes during AEP to set yourself up for a winning year,” says Johnson.
track of important papers you need to keep and have a shredder handy to help you discard any sensitive documents. Whether you alphabetize, color code or use some other method, group paperwork into segments for categories such as bills, banking, health care, auto, insurance and so on for easy access in the future.
tasks more efficiently. Making the office a priority can reduce frustration when it comes to spending additional time in your office while working from home. These five tips can help get you started:
❖ Make sure you have furniture that can adequately store your stuff, including plenty of space for files, reference books and computer equipment. Pieces need not be costly to be functional and there are plenty of attractive options available online and at both small and major retailers. ❖ Arrange the space with its intended use and your own work style in mind. For example, if you don’t need ample space to spread out over a large, flat work area, eliminate that
❖ Tangled cords can make even the most organized spaces look messy, and they may pose a fire or tripping hazard. Get control of your cords by storing devices you don’t use regularly and securing the remaining cords with twist ties or clips. Remember to use a surge-protected power strip to minimize the chance of damage should a power surge occur. Find more tips to make your workspace tidy and organized at eLivingtoday.com.
Fall Maintenance Checklist to Keep Your Home in Tip Top Shape (StatePoint) Fall is in the air, which means there is a lot to get done around the house before the cold weather comes. From landscaping to insulation, read on for a homeowner’s guide to prepping for the upcoming season. Fall Furnace Check. Before winter arrives, ensure your heating system is in working condition and safe to use. Turn off the furnace first and then clean the vents, check for cracks or rust and swap out the dirty filter for a clean one. If it’s been a while since your furnace has been maintained, it may be time to schedule a professional visit. Gutter Clean Out. While the fall foliage is beautiful, it can quickly clog gutters and cause water backups and flooding. Put on heavy-duty work gloves and remove debris near the downspout and work your way to the other end. As you clear away the leaves, easily repair broken or cracked pipes with strong T-Rex Tape. Unlike ordinary duct tapes, this strong tape is built with intense holding power for long-lasting repairs, and its aggressive double-thick adhesive ensures it sticks to rough, dirty surfaces through all weather types and temperatures. Trim Your Trees. Cut bushes and trees hanging over the driveway or roof to prevent limbs from falling during snowstorms this winter. Focus on trimming any dead or drooping branches, as these are the ones that are most likely to cause damage. Stop the Drafts. Insulating the home helps you stay warm and save money on energy bills. Identify trouble spots where drafts occur and use weather strip seals, like those from Duck brand, to effectively seal these gaps. Secure the Perimeter. Slips and falls can occur when steps and walkways are covered with ice and snow. Install proper outdoor lighting to illuminate these areas and to help prevent accidents. If you have steep or uneven wood or concrete steps, apply T-Rex Extreme Tread Tape to improve traction on the surface. This quality tape is made with a multi-layer grit embedding process for long-lasting wear and features a stronger adhesive bond than standard anti-slip tapes. While fall maintenance can feel daunting, following these tips will simplify the process, so you can feel confident that your house is prepared for changing temperatures.
michiganchronicle.com | October 18-24, 2023 | Page B-7
Page B-8 | October 18-24, 2023 | michiganchronicle.com
Offers end Oct. 31
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VISIT YOUR LOCAL MICHIGAN TOYOTA DEALER TODAY! FOR ALL TOYOTA OFFERS AND TO FIND A DEALER NEAR YOU 1. Toyota vehicles and components are built using U.S. and globally sourced parts. 2. 2023 RAV4 & 2023 Camry – based on manufacturer estimates, CY 2022 new vehicle registrations. 3. New 2023 RAV4 (excludes Hybrid & Prime), new 2023 Highlander (excludes hybrid), new 2023 Camry (excludes Hybrid), new 2023 Corolla (excludes Hybrid & Corolla Cross), and new 2023 Tacoma (includes TRD). 3.99% APR for 48 Months with $22.57 per $1,000 borrowed OR 4.99% APR for 60 Months with $18.87 per $1,000 borrowed OR 5.49% APR for 72 Months with $16.33 per $1,000 borrowed. Subject to approved credit thru TFS. Tier 1+ & 1 only. See participating dealer for details. 4. New 2023 RAV4 Hybrid, new 2023 Highlander Hybrid, new 2023 Camry Hybrid, and new 2023 Corolla Hybrid. 4.99% APR for 48 Months with $23.02 per $1,000 borrowed OR 5.99% APR for 60 Months with $19.33 per $1,000 borrowed OR 6.49% APR for 72 Months with $16.81 per $1,000 borrowed. Subject to approved credit thru TFS. Tier 1+ & 1 only. See participating dealer for details. 5. Based on manufacturers’ sales data from CY 2005-2022. 6. Depending on model. Before towing confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner’s Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added additional equipment. “Added vehicle equipment” includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle’s exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. 7. Tundra Full-Size Pickup Class. Vehicle’s projected resale value is specific to the 2023 model year. For more information, visit Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com. Kelley Blue Book is a registered trademark of Kelley Blue Book Co., Inc. 8. TCUV Camry Gas/Hybrid, RAV4 Gas/Hybrid, Highlander Gas/Hybrid (excludes Grand Highlander), Tacoma & Corolla Family. Corolla family includes Corolla Gas/Hybrid, Hatchback, iM and Corolla Cross (excludes GR Corolla). 5.49% APR for 36 Months with $30.19 per $1,000 borrowed OR 5.49% APR for 48 Months with $23.25 per $1,000 borrowed OR 5.49% APR for 60 Months with $19.10 per $1,000 borrowed. You must take retail delivery from TCUV dealer stock between 10/04/23 and 10/31/23. TCUV models must be current year used vehicles through 6-year-old with 85,000 miles or less. Subject to approved credit thru TFS. Tier 1+ & 1 only. See participating dealer for details. Visit toyotacertified.com for additional information. 9. Qualified current, active-duty military personnel, inactive reserves, veterans honorably discharged within two years of service, retirees regardless of date of separation from active service, and household members of eligible qualifying military personal are eligible for rebates in addition to all other incentives, depending on model, through Toyota Motor Sales USA, Inc., when leased or financed through Toyota Financial Services. Must take retail delivery from select new dealer stock (TCUV not eligible). The Toyota Military Rebate Program is not compatible with the Toyota College Rebate Program or Lease-End Refinancing Program. See participating dealer or visit buyatoyota.com for complete details. 10. The Toyota College Rebate Program is not compatible with the Military Rebate Program. See participating dealer or visit buyatoyota.com for complete details. 12. ToyotaCare covers normal factory scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 24-hour Roadside Assistance is included for two years, unlimited mileage (NOTE: bZ4X, Mirai, Prius and Prius Prime include enhanced ToyotaCare and/or Roadside Assistance). Roadside assistance limits towing distances and locations and does not include parts and fluids, except emergency fuel delivery for certain vehicles. Excludes rental company fleet sale vehicles. See your Toyota dealer for additional restrictions and exclusions. Valid only in the continental U.S. 3, 4, 9 & 10: Must take retail delivery from new 2023 and new 2024 dealer stock while supply lasts between 10/04/23 and 10/31/23. Delays in new vehicle shipments not in the control of dealer may impact customer delivery date and offer eligibility. Supply limited. See participating dealer for complete details. Individual dealer prices and document fees may vary. VEHICLE IMAGES USED FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY. Expiration for these offers is 10/31/23.