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Michigan Chronicle

Vol. 84 – No. 52 | September 1-7, 2021

Real Times Media Strengthens Its Sales and Operations with Three New Talented Hires Real Times Media (RTM), a Detroit-based national multimedia holding company and parent company of the Michigan Chronicle is proud to welcome Reginald Brown, Ronnell Hodges, and Jenny Hutchinson to its team.

Hired into the role of marketing strategist for RTM’s cultural marketing arm, RTM360°, Brown brings over a decade of experience in marketing analytics, developing strategic activations, and leading advertising efforts across several industries including, healthcare, automotive, education, and media.

Brown is a proud Detroit native and Eastern Michigan University alum Reginald Brown who is deeply committed to the city.

Previously, as outreach director for Detroit Homecoming, Brown paired his professional experience and passion for his home city to shine a light on growth and investment opportunities in Detroit.

Ronnell Hodges

Admired for shattering performance goals, driving revenue growth, and leadership development, Ronnell Hodges joins Real Times Media as the general sales manager for the Michigan Chronicle. He brings a proven track record of Jenny Hutchinson helping companies meet and exceed their business objectives. Hodges is a dynamic manager with an impressive background in maximizing profits, team leadership, and customer retention.

Before joining RTM, Hodges was the sales operations manager at Home Grown Cannabis Company, a Lansing, Mich.-based seed bank, where he spearheaded the business’ turnaround – substantially increasing the company profits by refocusing resources on top-performing products and implementing successful corporate strategies. Under his direction, he grew its client base by 47% and generated $8 million in product sales for 2020.

Hodges, who earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from Northwood University, is a community leader who also spends his time coaching youth football.

Jenny Hutchinson joins RTM as executive assistant to RTM’s chief executive officer Hiram E. Jackson. She brings over 20 years of experience in start-up development and organizational operations across multiple in-

See NEW

HIRES page A2

WHAT’S INSIDE PUBLIC TRANSIT CONNECTION TO A METROPARK

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September Brings

Mental Health to the Forefront

By Sherri Kolade He almost became a statistic.

Detroit resident E’yandra Otis almost took his life in 2016 after facing emotional turmoil and the loss of numerous family members and friends in recent years.

“I spent so much time in the funeral home I felt that I worked there,” Otis told the Michigan Chronicle of cousins and friends of his who tragically died.

“It was a lot -- a long year.”

Otis represents countless others who died by suicide.

According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the tenth leading cause of death in the United States in 2019 was suicide, claiming more than 47,500 people. Also, there were about two and a half times as many suicides in the United States as there were homicides (19,141) that year.

The CDC added that suicide was the “second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10 and 34, and the fourth leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 35 and 44.”

Around the world, more than 700,000 people die by suicide every year, which is one person every 40 seconds, according to the World Health Organization, which reports that for each adult who passed away from suicide there might have been over 20 others attempting suicide.

There is help, however.

Every year, many mental health organizations and individuals band together across the United States and around the world and bring attention to suicide prevention during National Suicide Prevention Month in September.

Also, on September 10, it is World Suicide Prevention Day, which was established in 203. The day is geared toward providing a worldwide commit-

ment and action to prevent suicides with various activities around the world. Over half a million people participated in the global conversation around World Suicide Prevention Day last year.

For Otis, having conversations and seeking mental help helped him out of his downward spiral of emotions also stemming from family troubles, financial hardships and more.

Otis, who almost ended things with some alcohol and pills, said he finally came to that life-changing day five years ago and is glad he did.

“I’m not the most spiritual person…

I grew up in church and everything,” he said, adding that he had a God-like encounter in his car that he heard clear as day: ‘You’re not finished, get up.’ “I thought that somebody broke into my vehicle -- thought somebody was in there. There was nobody but me and a headache.”

He added that “everything changed from that moment on” and he started meeting more people, getting involved in the City of Detroit, and encouraging others who were in his shoes.

“The last few years have been a big eye-opening blessing for me,” he said, adding that as a mental health advocate he encourages others to speak to professionals and trusted family and friends who could lend a listening ear.

“I used to be a person that holds a lot of things in,” he said. “Now if I’m getting to a point where I feel like I need to talk to or call somebody I don’t have a problem asking for help.”

Detroit Councilman Roy McCalister, a big advocate for mental health, told the Michigan Chronicle that “mental health is life.”

“All things that we do surround it and it affects everyone around us in some form or fashion. If your mental health is not taken care of, we are limited in our daily functioning when it

comes to work, school, taking care of our families and most importantly ourselves,” he said. “Continued functioning in these areas inspire me to want Black people to do better at caring for themselves -- and in order to do these things, ensuring their mental health is taken care of is paramount.”

He added that with National Suicide Prevention Month in September it is important for Black people, among others, to encourage and support their loved ones.

“If we notice the signs of depression, anxiety and other stressors in advance, we can prevent an increase in suicide rates. We can have more survivors and ensure we continue to come together as a community to alleviate these high statistics,” he said.

Dr. L.A. Barlow, a clinical psychologist with the Detroit Medical Center, told the Michigan Chronicle that with the pandemic and its variants still ongoing (and social isolation still a thing), continuing to work on your mental health is not something to look down upon, especially in the Black community.

“Culturally a lot of times in our community we were raised to say, ‘Family business stays in the household,’” she said, adding that these things need to be talked about. “Mental healthcare and mental well-being [don’t] discriminate no matter race. Why should we not get the help?”

If someone needs immediate help, call 888-DMC-2500.

If you are in crisis, call the toll-free National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The service is available to anyone. All calls are confidential. http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

Contact Staff Writer Sherri Kolade with story ideas at skolade@michronicle.com.

The Autism Connection Detroit Executives Help Make Tangible Changes

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By Sherri Kolade

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SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT

Dreams Preferred: It’s Their Time Now

Roots. A3

* In this two-part series, the Michigan Chronicle has in-depth conversations around autism, especially as it relates to the Black community with misdiagnosis, late diagnosis -- and how the right diagnosis can make all the difference. This series, featuring parents, families and executives, will lead up to the September 11 Autism Alliance fundraising event to help make a positive impact on autism in the community and beyond.

One in 54.

That is roughly how many children in 2020 were diagnosed with autism in the United States according to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

$1.00

Closer to home, Michigan had the fifth largest autism population (as com-

pared to other U.S. states in 2007), according to the non-profit organization Autism Alliance of Michigan.

Autism is now the fastest-growing developmental disability in the country and it impacts boys four to five times more often than girls, according to the National Institute of Mental Health Online.

The autism spectrum disorder is a life-long neurological disability that is marked by significant social communication and behavioral traits. This disorder’s severity can vary widely from one individual to another. The term “spectrum” refers to this range of social-communication and behavioral deficits, according to www.michigan.gov.

In communities of color, autism hits home even harder.

According to the CDC, Black and

See AUTISM page A2

Carla Walker-Miller, the founder and CEO of ­Walker-Miller Energy Services.

Page A-2 • michiganchronicle.com • September 1-7, 2021

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Building From the Ashes

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PICKS 585 965 110 561 932 WEEK’S BEST LOTTERY

290 316 481 899 745 041 910 6912 1279 Healing Comes First After Facing Violence 682 10 15 23 31 53 7

By Sherri Kolade *The Michigan Chronicle is discussing violence against youth in Detroit, and why it’s happening, especially after four children were shot in four days in June. In the finale of this two-part series, we delve into how healing can come despite the devastation, how community organizations are here to help and what needs to be done to protect the most vulnerable.

If she had her way, Marie Ganaway would never have to hear about a mother or father burying their child prematurely due to violence, especially in Detroit.

Ganaway, a Detroit-based spiritual coach at Autumn Experience Life & Spiritual Coaching, knows that even with that sad improbability, things can be done to bring healing in the community that has fallen victim to violence against children time and time again --- and it starts with doing internal work first.

“We have to recognize the emotions that come with losing a child,” she said, adding that the family members of lost loved ones – especially parents of young children – should let go of the sense of guilt. “You have the mentality that you should always go first, not the child... there was something you could have done to prevent it.”

A Grief-Stricken Response There was nothing that could have prepared the Christian family for Thursday evening, June 17.

On the way home from basketball practice, the family of four – a husband and wife and two sons, 2 and 9, were the target of a freeway shooting that killed the youngest child, Brison Christian.

His father, Brian Christian, spoke up about the violence against his family which turned out to be a

Autism From page A-1

Hispanic children are less likely to be identified with autism spectrum disorder than their white counterparts.

“These differences suggest that Black and Hispanic children may face socioeconomic or other barriers that lead to a lack of or delayed access to evaluation, diagnosis and services,” according to the website.

A Founder’s Heart Dave Meador, vice chairman and chief administrative officer for DTE Energy, is also the co-founder and chairman of the Autism Alliance of Michigan.

Meador spoke to the Michigan Chronicle about his journey with autism over 20 years ago, alongside his wife, Peggy, when their daughter Bella was diagnosed with autism.

Meador, who has three older boys, said that he and his wife adopted Bella from Guatemala and he said that he had “no experience with autism” beforehand.

“She wasn’t meeting her developmental milestones,” Meador said, adding that there were not many proper diagnostic centers around and when he had Bella in autism therapies he had to pay out of pocket. “[There weren’t] good diagnostic centers,” Meador said, adding that after the diagnosis was narrowed down, there was more waiting that could have been between one and four years.

“This is surreal,” Meador said. “What other medical condition says come back in a year or two? Why do we feel like we’re the first family [experiencing] this in Michigan?”

Meador said that navigating through autism and finding support along the way is one of the reasons he wanted to start the Autism Alliance of Michigan to help create a system where people are able to find help when

case of mistaken identity and said previously during a press conference that he felt guilty about his son’s death.

“I feel like none of us, none of my family was supposed to make it out that truck. I keep replaying the incident in the back of my mind and thinking what I could have done differently?” Christian said during the press conference. “When the situation happened, I kept saying, ‘Man what did I do for someone to want to kill me and my family?’”

He made peace with the whatifs and he and his family are now working on ensuring other families don’t have to experience tragedies like this through Operation Brison – a multi-jurisdiction freeway crime prevention plan.

The Christian family is getting their healing by giving – Ganaway said that during grieving, it is important to turn those emotions into remembering how the person was loved. Also, using that energy to help the community heal, too, when the time is right.

“Take the energy of the loss and put it into the love of that person ... or giving energy to the community,” she said, adding that giving energy back out can simply be volunteering or by having a conversation with elders and hear them talk about what’s happening in the community. Talk to the youth and learn about the adversity they are experiencing.

“Lead by example -- you give that same energy of defeat and put it into the community,” she said, adding that this is all part of the healing process -- communication is also important. “Share your story with others who can actually relate.

It will give you a sense of relief that you are not the only one experiencing this. … Recognize what you are going through and take steps to make it better.”

they need it most.

“We’re working hard to, first of all, have families know the Autism Alliance exists and they don’t have to pay for it,“ he said of calling the Autism Alliance navigators.

Meador said that the organization is refining everything it does and during an upcoming September 11 Autism Alliance event they hope to raise funds to increase their impact.

“We’re asking for grants from some of the foundations to focus on this issue,” Meador said, adding that “autism has no boundaries” in terms of who it impacts.

“It impacts all demographics -- all racial, all ethnic boundaries,” Meador said, also echoing similar sentiments from Wayne State University research that shows that African Americans are more likely to be misdiagnosed or late-diagnosed.

He added that DTE is making great strides to make big impacts in the autism community through volunteerism, from their leadership team, driving agendas, working with other groups, and more from the diversity, equity and inclusion perspective.

That work also involves collaborating with the likes of Carla Walker-Miller, the founder and CEO of Walker-Miller Energy Services, who attended one of his previous galas and remarked frankly about how there were not enough Black people in attendance.

“Carla has been a great, powerful voice in this -- challenging me,” he said, adding that she, and others, helped the organization connect and reach even more families in Detroit and especially families who live in poverty “who wouldn’t even think there is someone I could call.”

“I Want Black People to Have Access” Walker-Miller, who doesn’t have any familial ties to someone who has autism, said that she

A Child’s Advocate

Melanie Richards, director of Kids-TALK Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) in Detroit, said that for children who experience violence from adults, it’s a different ballgame and it requires having open communication in a mentally appropriate way.

“I think parents or caregivers know their children best,” she said, adding that if they see behavioral changes or see something that may trigger them it is important to ask a few questions to see if everything is OK...not underestimating that they are an expert of their own child.

CAC focuses on the safety, social and emotional health and stability of children and families throughout Wayne County, according to their website. Located near the Detroit Institute of Arts, CAC envisions a place where the most vulnerable population is not on the receiving end of abuse, neglect and trauma, and receives the protection, support and treatment needed to heal.

Richards said that from forensic interviews and medical care to cross-collaboration with law enforcement and other entities, CAC uses a multidisciplinary approach to create a “safe place” for children to be seen and heard so they go from surviving to thriving.

“We would love to be a resource for the community,” she said, adding that the organization is more than happy to be that for the Detroit area still reeling from violence against children. “We have advocates -- this is what they do; they help support and help link people to services ... being mindful of where people are, where they live, what’s important to them culturally [and] religiously ...so we can make sure it’s a good fit.”

For more information visit https://www.guidance-center.org/ kids-talk/.

is very “tuned in” to the autism community after she learned that some Black people don’t always have the proper resources when it comes to an autism diagnosis.

“I’ve also read a lot about the fact that Black children are diagnosed much later than white children -- that automatically means their outcomes are not ideal,” Walker-Miller said, adding that more needs to be done. “We’re not doing everything we can for our children. [It] is important for Black people and Black families to have as much information to expedite proper diagnosis and interventions that can really make a difference for these children.”

Walker-Miller added that when seeking a diagnosis, Black people need to “really lean into issues around health and particularly mental and emotional help.”

She is also “very engaged” in conversation about workforce equity and the need to employ people who have had higher unemployment rates.

Walker-Miller is passionate about reducing the unemployment rate in the autism community and bringing more resources to the Black community and others overall – she is excited to continue doing that through the Autism Alliance and gala as a co-chair. “[This is] the third year being involved,” she said, adding that she especially wants to make sure Black people have access and workers thriving in the community. “I want us to be in the vineyard making sure Black families with autism and all families with autism have better services.”

In Michigan, the Great Start Program offers Early On® as a resource for infants and toddlers from birth to three years of age with developmental delays and/or disabilities.

Early On® can be reached at Early On at 1-800-EarlyOn (1-800-327-5966) or www.1800EarlyOn.org.

The Autism Alliance

of Michigan’s fundraiser, 11 Michigan Shines for Autism Gala, is September 11 and presented by the DTE Foundation. For more information visit https://autismallianceofmichigan.org/2021-gala/.

Contact staff writer Sherri Kolade at skolade@michronicle.com with story ideas.

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New Hires From page A-1

dustries. Hutchinson has a proven skillset in the developing and launching for-profit and non-profit programs and projects, having worked with local small businesses, school districts, universities, and community-based organizations throughout metro-Detroit on initiatives benefitting thousands of residents.

The former director of Sistahs Reachin’ Out – a community-based, non-profit serving low-income, single parents within Detroit – Hutchinson is also the owner of Home Werx, Inc. – a local home goods start-up. As an ardent champion for her hometown, Detroit, she serves on advisory committees and boards that work to tackle issues critical to Detroit residents. Hutchinson, a graduate of the University of Michigan with a master’s degree in Education Administration, Research, and Policy and a bachelor’s in Biochemistry, is also an avid tennis

fan who loves to travel with her family.

Tanisha Leonard, president of RTM360°, said the company continues to exceed its own expectations with the hiring of three diverse, experienced professionals who will be a huge asset to RTM. “The additions of Jenny, Reginald, and Ronnell will round out our team by allowing us to provide exceptional custom solutions for our clients.”

In addition to RTM360° and the Michigan Chronicle, Real Times Media is also the parent company to Who’s Who In Black, a national business lifestyle network and community, Studio 1452, and four other of the country’s most respected African American-owned news organizations, the Atlanta Daily World, Atlanta Tribune: The Magazine, the Chicago Defender, and the New Pittsburgh Courier.

For more information regarding Real Times Media, visit https://realtimesmedia.com/.

DIGITAL DAILY www.michiganchronicle.com

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There’s no place like home Connecting older adults and their families to the support they need: government-funded in-home care programs, Meals on Wheels, transportation and more.

800-852-7795 • aaa1b.org The Area Agency on Aging 1-B is a nonprofit serving Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair and Washtenaw counties.

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| September 1-7, 2021

American Council on Education Validates IBM Apprenticeship Program

Roots.

michiganchronicle.com

IBM announced that its 21st century apprenticeship program has earned official recognition from the American Council on Education (ACE) which, for the first time, will allow IBM apprentices to translate their 12 months of on-thejob training for up to 45 college credits, or roughly three semesters of college coursework, from participating academic institutions.

IBM's technical apprenticeship in software engineering will allow past, current and future IBM apprentices to apply their credits at participating two and four-year institutions across the country. This offers a unique opportunity for apprentices to fast-track their progression toward an associate's or bachelor's degree in pursuit of their career goals.

Earlier this year, ACE launched its Apprenticeship Pathways project, in partnership with the Charles Koch Foundation, to expand the range of alternative educational experiences eligible for college credit and better leverage the impact of high-quality apprenticeships.

As a result, IBM's software engineering apprenticeship will be represented in ACE-endorsed badges and transcripts on the Credly Acclaim platform, which translates learners' knowledge, skills, and achievements into digital credentials.

"Amid the pandemic, industry leaders nationwide are rethinking their approach towards education, skills training and hiring. Apprenticeships have become an increasingly critical element in the country's skills portfolio because they can rapidly provide more people with access to new career opportunities, all while continuing to earn a paycheck," said Kelli Jordan, Director of skills, career and performance at IBM. "This validation by ACE reaffirms the impact of IBM's apprenticeship model and its ability to provide an opportunity to learn in-demand technical skills that can lead to some of technology's fastest growing careers without taking on student debt or taking time away from the workplace."

To date, IBM has trained nearly 1,000 apprentices across 17 states and 30 cities through its earn-while-you learn model. Their learning spans 25 apprenticeship career tracks, and the company also has made expanded access to apprenticeship a hallmark of its public policy advocacy, supporting, for example, Congressional passage of The National Apprenticeship Act. ACE, through its Leaming Evaluations program, seeks to facilitate seamless pathways for learners, schools and employers to intersect - creating economic mobility and a skilled workforce.

The ACE-endorsed badges and transcripts are designed to allow learners to easily transition between work and postsecondary education while retaining a record of all their learned skills.

"We are proud to validate programs like IBM's Software Engineering Apprenticeship, which provide opportunities for underserved student populations to improve their economic mobility through postsecondary education and professional advancement," said Michele Spires, executive director for Learning Evaluations at ACE. "This program empowers students to further their education while helping colleges and universities grow and diversify their student body."

See APPRENTICESHIP page A-4

Local artist Judy Bowman’s work is showcased through her visual grio lens of telling stories through each of her ­masterpieces. Photo courtesy of Judy Bowman

Dreams Preferred: It’s Their Time Now

By Sherri Kolade She turned 78 when she recently released her new EP, “Let There Be Love,” this past April.

Detroit native Freda Payne’s fivesong EP features jazz, sass and a whole lot of love and soul as she delivers her songs to those whose ears are itching to hear something new with a touch of classic old-school vibes.

In 1970, the singer’s hit song, “Band of Gold,” came out – now over 50 years later, her new album is something worth celebrating, too.

Her new album includes a 30-piece orchestra, duets and arranged jazz standards from the American Songbook.

“Jazz is in my soul,” Payne said on abc7.com. “I can say it’s in my soul and in my bones. I can do R&B. I can do pop. I don’t know about the rap.”

Local artist Judy Bowman rekindled her passion for the arts and creates pieces that speak to, and about, the Black community. Photo courtesy of Judy Bowman

Payne is a classic example of it’s never too late to get back at it – whatever “it” is.

book “Beloved” when she was in her 50s.

ing different shows and reconnecting with her creative peers.

“It” for Ava DuVernay was entering into the film industry and directing her first film, “Selma,” in 2014 at the age of 42.

And for Judy Bowman, 69, of Romulus, mother of 10, “it” was restarting her art career after she put it on hold to raise her family.

For famed author Toni Morrison, a professor Emeritus at Princeton University, “it” was publishing her first novel when she turned 39. She also won a Nobel Prize and Pulitzer for her

“When I retired from education I said, ‘Let me go back to my art,’” she said, adding that six years prior she lost contact with the art world, but that all changed when she started do-

“Here I am six years later, and I won a lot of national awards -- gotten a lot of recognition,” Bowman said, adding that her journey back to the familiar happened “really fast.”

Bowman added that art is something she has always loved doing and if anyone has a gift or talent or desire

See JUDY BOWMAN page B-2

COMMENTARY

Don’t Let The Pandemic Change Your College Plans

By Ashley Johnson

Many students may be wondering about the next step in their education given the uncertainty of the past year. High school seniors have had to do many things differently this year: School was online; homecoming was virtual; and many proms were held outdoors.

Even graduation looked a little different. But the Class of 2021 overcame this unprecedented adversity. And now they’re on their way to what’s next: Education beyond high school.

Although campuses are still grappling with plans to bring students back on campus, students should know that college is still an option. Students with some training after high school—whether that’s a year of training for a professional certificate or four years of college—earn more, learn more and tend to be more civically involved, healthier, and live longer. College isn’t just another couple of years of school. It is the difference between thriving and simply surviving in life. College is the difference

your scholarship funding.

between living check-to-check and barely making ends meet versus thriving in a career field that aligns with your passions and the financial means to save for the future.

But the support doesn’t end there: Many colleges participating in the Promise program have dedicated support teams on campus ready to make sure the transition to college is successful. They’ll be there to support you, help you put together your schedule of classes, cheer you on and help you overcome some of the common barriers that you might face.

For students in Detroit, free college is still an option. The ability to pursue a more stable future is within reach.

Since 2013, the Detroit Promise has offered a tuition free pathway to a college degree to more than 4,800 students. This opportunity is also available for the Class of 2021 and 2022. The Detroit Promise offers last-dollar scholarship funding for residents of Detroit to attend two-year colleges and four-year universities. To be eligible for the two-year college pathway students must live in and attend high school in Detroit for two years, graduate high school and complete the FAFSA. To be eligible for the four-year college scholarship students must live in and attend high school in Detroit for four years, have at least a 3.0 GPA, graduate high school, apply and get accepted to an eligible

Ashley Johnson four-year college and complete the FAFSA. The Detroit Promise funding is not competitive; every student who registers and meets the requirements will receive funding.

If you think the Promise is too good to be true, think again. All you must do is register during your senior year, apply and get accepted to an eligible college and sign the Promise commitment form to indicate which college to send

Each student utilizing the two-year Detroit Promise scholarship will be assigned a Campus Coach through the Detroit Promise Path program. Campus Coaches connect students with on-campus student resources, support their educational journey and personal growth and assist with educational goal achievements. In addition to the benefit of having a dedicated, knowledgeable coach, each scholar participating in the Detroit Promise Path will receive a monthly stipend of $50 and be connected to a community of Detroit Promise scholars.

The COVID-19 pandemic and the way it has upended soci-

ety might dissuade some from pursuing higher education, but don’t be fooled. Do not miss out on a free pathway to a college degree!

Entering and completing college isn’t easy, but it’s even more challenging for first-generation students and students of color. There are worthy programs out there designed specifically to help students financially, socially and academically to ensure they thrive and complete their degree. Detroit Promise is one such program, and I encourage any Detroit student to pursue this free pathway to a college degree.

Learn more here.

Ashley Johnson is a program officer at The Kresge Foundation supporting the work of the Education Program. Prior to joining the foundation, she served as the Executive Director of the Detroit Promise program and remains passionate in the pursuit of ensuring every student has an opportunity to achieve a postsecondary degree regardless of their financial situation.

Page A-4 • michiganchronicle.com •

September 1-7, 2021

Tattoos in the Workplace

By Megan Kirk

Wise. We currently work together at his shop in downtown Detroit,” says Picasso.

The art of tattooing is something that dates back to indigenous people in the 1700s. One of the earliest known images of a tattooed person is a King of the Maquas of the Mohawk tribe dating to the early 18th century where his face and lower chest were depicted with dark lines. Fast forward to today and you can see the rise in popularity of tattoos making them almost as mainstream as apple pie and baseball. In the workplace, what was once frowned upon is now a lesser factor as more and more people indulge in their love of the art of tattooing.

Tattooing is a lucrative business. It is estimated that the tattoo industry generates more than $1.5 billion in revenue and is expected to grow by eight percent annually over the next ten years. As the sixth most rapidly growing American industry, tattoos have become a way of life.

Previously, companies frowned upon visible body art. While companies are becoming more accepting of tattoos, there still exists the notion to cover up in some fields.

“I haven’t been directly discriminated against in the workplace, but often, I used to be asked to cover my tattoos by wearing additional garments or longer uniforms,” says Woods. “I believe some are just because of the old-school stereotype of people with tattoos -- we’re criminals, in gangs, rebels, the wild child.”

Tattoos, once held to a negative stigma and viewed as a marker for criminals, are now being viewed as a way of outward expression for many despite background, race or gender. Statistics show that more than a quarter of the U. S. population have at least one tattoo as of 2019. Evolving over several decades, the methods used to tattoo have expanded from simple ink and needle to advanced tattoo guns and the work has grown from simple lines and symbols to elaborate photos and imaginative artwork.

“Tattoos are becoming more accepted because more people are getting them and you’re getting a bigger variety of tattoo artists that can showcase tons of new styles of art and creativity,” says Lorena Woods, a 30-year-old professional tattoo artist known as Lola Picasso.

Deciding on a tattoo requires an artist with skill, precision and artistic ability. Serving on both sides of the spectrum, Lola Picasso has used her body as a canvas. Having previously worked in corporate America, the artist sees tattoos not only as artistry but also as an outward expression of self. Utilizing her drawing and painting skills, Lola Picasso she has created skin works for several clients. The artist herself has more than 20 tattoos, some of which were self-work.

“I personally love tattoos. The majority of them that I have, I tattooed on myself. I feel like they’re a huge form of expression,

Apprenticeship From page A-3 According to the World Economic Forum, closing the global skills gap could add US$11.5 trillion to the global GDP by 2028, but education and training systems need to keep pace with market demands. The ACE Software Engineer Apprenticeship validation can help support this future of work by allowing learners to leverage their skills

From an employer perspective, for some, tattoos do have bearing on job applications.

Visible tattoos, while no longer holding the same stigma, are still a no-go for some professions.

Tattoo artist Lorena Woods, aka Lorena Picasso. identity and personal style! To me, the bigger, the better,” says Picasso.

Starting 10 years ago, she has since grown her craft and clientele and now works alongside her tattoo mentor. Although tattooing for some time, 2020 helped create more time to dedicate to tattooing. The pandemic helped kick her career into orbit.

“I’ve been tattooing off and on since 2011, but I have been tattooing full-time since the start of the pandemic last year. I got started working with my mentor, who’s now like an older brother to me, Raymond

across every available channel, and help them achieve their goals.

For more information on IBM's Software Engineering Apprenticeship visit here: https:// www.ibm.com/us­ en/employment/newcollar/apprenticeships/.

For more information on credit recommendations for IBM's Software Engineering Apprenticeship visit here:

“It does play a factor if they are visible such as face tattoos, but I more so look at the content they have tattooed. It’s really all about content that would lessen the hire.

I’ve seen some really racy visible tattoos and try to understand that people get things when they are young, but if it can’t be covered it does play a factor in the hiring process,” says Kyndall C., a Human Resources hiring professional.

Companies are at their own discretion when outlining dress code, including tattoos and piercings.

“The stigma has really changed due to companies realizing the generation has changed. A lot of companies have adapted to the fun and free work environment and when I say free, I mean just being able to be yourself. I also feel like having millennials like myself doing the hiring helps. Your colorful sleeve doesn’t make you any less useful as an employee,” says C.

https://www.acenet.edu/National-Guide/Pages/Organization. aspx?oid= cal a01fd-c538-eb11a813-000d3a33232a.

About ACE The American Council on Education (ACE) is a membership organization that mobilizes the higher education community to shape effective public policy and foster innovative, high-quality practice. As the major coordinating body for the nation's colleges and universi-

ties, our strength lies in our diverse membership of more than 1,700 colleges and universities, related associations, and other organizations in America and abroad. ACE is the only major higher education association to represent all types of U.S. accredited, degree-granting institutions: two-year and four-year, public and private. Our members educate two out of every three students in all accredited, degree-granting U.S. institutions.

Judy Bowman From page A-3 to work their craft, they should pursue it no matter the obstacle.

“It is never too late,” Bowman said. “You can always go back to it because I believe it is a gift from God. He wouldn’t give you a gift for you to waste.”

Her talent speaks for itself with her paintings peering into the depths of the Black community, daily life and culture.

Bowman calls herself a “visual grio” and takes it as a personal responsibility to tell the stories of how she sees the community.

“How I see Black people,” she said, adding that so many times they’ve been marginalized and demonized.

Bowman, who grew up on the eastside, said that she was raised in a society that looked a lot different than today.

“Everybody was there … everybody was home,” she said. “The father went to work and the mother stayed home and took care of kids.

We always had food, was always clean -- education was pushed,” she said, adding that when people graduated from high school they went to college. “It was nothing like the way it seems like the mainstream people want to see Black people.

We had pride.”

Bowman said that she captures that essence and more in her work which she says is relatable to everyone, even white people.

“It’s revealing -- we do the same thing -- we’re the same. We’re all humans,” Bowman said, adding that finding her footing in the art world helped her rekindling journey. “I’m just feeling so blessed that I got a chance to use it and do good with it and make people come together. Find some people … who are going to help you fulfill your visions, your dream, your passion.”

For more information visit https://www.judybowman.com/.

WHY DID I GET VACCINATED?

GWENDOLYN C. OF DETROIT, MICHIGAN

The COVID-19 vaccine will save lives.

Kim was Gwendolyn’s best friend. Kim caught COVID and passed away the day before her birthday. So Gwendolyn got the vaccine to honor her friend and to prevent others from losing their loved ones. She strongly recommends that everyone, especially in the city of Detroit, gets their shot. Let’s join together to help save lives and get beyond this pandemic.

The vaccines have been tested for safety and are trusted by doctors.

Find your vaccine at Michigan.gov/COVIDvaccine. Text your zip code to 438829 or call 888-535-6136 and press 1.

A5

| September 1-7, 2021

Money.

michiganchronicle.com

Charles H. Wright Museum Hires Cedric Scott

By Sherri Kolade Cedric Scott was recently tapped as the new director of Corporate Partnerships and Member Services at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.

Scott has over 20 years of marketing experience leading marketing communications for multi-million-dollar media companies and non-profit organizations across diverse industries, including as the CEO/chief strategist at Luminate Agency, a full-service marketing, PR, and design agency.

Pierre Batton, executive vice president of Small Business Services for the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation.

Scott, who also has a background leading communication efforts at Triumph Church, told the Michigan Chronicle recently that he is “excited” about starting his position, which is a seamless transition from his former role.

(Photo available from organization’s website)

Scott, a member of Triumph Church since 2007, said that he came to the ministry and there were 5,000 members; during his work there he helped boost membership numbers dramatically.

Cedric Scott is the new director of Corporate Partnerships and Member Services at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. Photo provided by Cedric Scott

“I am really proud of the time we spent there -- able to grow that to about over 40,000 members at eight different campuses throughout metro Detroit,” Scott said. “We’re proud that we have done some things in ministry no one has done and shifting to this relationship with the museum is really, really cool.”

He added that he was really involved at the church spearheading various community-driven initiatives. Scott said that he’s transitioning to a similar space by working at the museum and is looking forward to combining partnerships, and doing things in the community and business realm.

“This opportunity became available -- really exciting to me,” Scott said, adding that he has always been about community, Black culture and more.

“It is a great opportunity and time to be at a museum; it is important work, that we need to talk about what happened,” Scott said of past injustices, adding that it’s crucial to share what’s “important to our culture.”

Scott, who is celebrating his first month at the museum, said that his role is to collaborate with businesses, universities and other entities that celebrate the “history of African American culture.”

“My position really drives engagement,” Scott said, adding that he is “really honored” about the

See CEDRIC

SCOTT page A6

Financial Mentorship for Small Business

By Megan Kirk

Revenue helps the world go around. And the pandemic gave E-commerce a huge boost. But although small businesses took a hit, resilience is pushing a steady comeback. Providing financial services and guidance, organizations are helping to set up small Black businesses for success.

It is no doubt that small Black businesses are the one demographic most affected by the pandemic. As Black businesses face financial hindrances such as lack of lending, smaller earnings and a need for better money-management skills, financial stability and literacy continues to be the name of the game.

The loss of more than 400,000 Black businesses has a drastic effect on the strength of the Black economy. Weakening an already slighted community, the pandemic also helped to shine a light on problems with access for minorities.

To counteract economic hardship in neighborhood businesses, programs like the Paycheck Protection Program, or PPP, were established but left Black firms out. Locked out by terms of the program, an inability to establish relationships with banks or credit unions, proper business documentation

and other limitations, small Black companies accounted for less than two percent of PPP recipients during the program’s first round. Not seeing much improvement, Black businesses were still shut out during subsequent rounds.

Despite the restraints that attempt to hold them back, Black entrepreneurs and their small-scale companies continue to persevere and are poised to return full force.

The loss of Black businesses creates a financial vacuum in its neighborhoods.

In numerous instances multiple streams of income are required for some small business owners to make ends meet.

“The impact of small business stretches farther than many may realize. Small businesses account for half of the jobs in the City of Detroit.

Additionally, part-time businesses or side hustles as they are often called, provide much needed supplemental income for many households in Detroit and can often increase the economic mobility of our city’s residents,” says Pierre Batton, executive vice president of Small Business Services for the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation.

Personal finances also play a role in financial stability in small businesses. Used to

determine loan eligibility and credibility, personal financial standing can drive business finance opportunities.

“Personal finances are a huge factor in the long-term viability of a business. You have probably heard that 90 percent of small businesses don’t survive five years. That isn’t necessarily because the business goes bankrupt or isn’t making money, but the owner may not be making enough money to pay their personal bills or make it worth their while. They may make the decision to move on for another money-making opportunity,” says Mark Kwiatkowski, founder and president of Detroit Financial Coaching.

Visibility of Black businesses is a key factor in revenue. Unable to afford classic marketing, Black businesses are at a disadvantage in reaching a new audience. SCORE, launched in 1964, is a coalition of volunteers in the business and entrepreneurial sectors helping small businesses thrive behind the scenes. As marketing and the ability to afford financial coaching can hinder a business, this organization provides free resources to business owners to gain mentorship in various aspects of small business ownership. For Black businesses, this level of access

could be a game changer.

“For years, small business owners have reported that marketing to successfully find customers is one of their top challenges,” says Candice Stennett, vice president of marketing for SCORE. “SCORE offers a wealth of free resources to help business owners become successful marketers, including webinars, e-guides and customizable templates, all of which are accessible through www. score.org.”

Recently, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced a $650 million plan, as a part of a larger $2.1 billion proposal, to support and grow small businesses. As Black businesses have been shut out of previous financial endeavors, owners are hoping this time will be different.

“A thriving Michigan requires a transformational economic development strategy to advance our state’s competitiveness in a global marketplace,” said Sandy K. Baruah, president and chief executive officer of the Detroit Regional Chamber. “The Chamber continues to advocate for strategically investing American Rescue Plan funds to create the growth-oriented business climate necessary to be leaders in talent development and attraction, small business support and innovation.”

Metro-Detroit Black Business Alliance to Close Out Black Business Month With Grand Opening of Black Business Resource Center to eliminate barriers to success in every way possible. By providing this center to members, we are helping to close the digital gap that exists while creating a space for unapologetically Black innovation and creativity in entrepreneurship.”

The Metro-Detroit Black Business Alliance (MDBBA) hosted the Grand Opening for their Black Business Resource Center (BBRC) — the BBRC, located at 1234 Washington Blvd., will provide free internet and co-working space for members. The Center will serve as a hub for all Black entrepreneurs to collaborate and gain access to community resources. The BBRC will also have workshops, seminars and other resources designed to help Black Businesses thrive.

The MDBBA launched five months ago with a $1M contribution from TCF now Huntington Bank. The organization now boasts of over 200 members and growing.

“We congratulate our partners at the MDBBA for opening the Black Business Resource Center in Detroit,” said Detroit

Since its launch in March, MDBBA has successfully implemented programming beneficial to its members and the community.

Economic Growth Corporation President and CEO Kevin Johnson. “This space will provide Black businesses with access to resources, meeting space and opportunities to network.

We are aligned with MDBBA in prioritizing programs that enable Black entrepreneurial

success and small business growth.”

To celebrate its Grand Opening, all Black owned businesses, regardless of MDBBA membership status, will be able to use the resource center for co-working, internet access and printing for free in the

month of September. Following that month, the center will remain free of charge for MDBBA members and be accessible at a low cost for nonmembers.

“Black businesses face many historic barriers,” said Charity Dean, President/CEO of MDBBA. “The goal of the MDBBA is

In late spring, the organization focused on assisting Black business in accessing PPP and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. That effort helped get over $2M into the hands of Black business owners in the region. This summer, the MDBBA launched the Hastings Street Index, a Black business directory for Wayne, Oakland

See ALLIANCE page A6

Page A-6 • michiganchronicle.com • September 1-7, 2021

Cedric Scott

Alliance

From page A-5

From page A-5

and Macomb Counties. The index currently hosts approximately 1,000 Black owned businesses and is growing weekly.

The organization is currently accepting applications for a pilot program called Capital Connect. With the help of key technical assistance providers and funding partners, the program seeks to prepare and connect Black entrepreneurs to funding for their businesses.

“MDBBA’s new Black Business Resource Center will help Livegistics effectively locate both funding and sales opportunities in the Metro Detroit area,” said Justin Turk, Chief Executive Officer, Livegistics, Inc. and MDBBA member. “We look forward to MDBBA being a partner in helping minori-

work he, and others, are doing at the Museum.”

ty owned companies like Livegistics obtain equitable opportunities in the open market.”

The opening of the BBRC is another initiative that the MDBBA has brought to fruition as part of its inaugural year planning. Sponsors of the BBRC include Comcast Business, Molson Coors and

Chase Bank.

“The Black Business ­ esource Center will serve R our business on many levels,” says Kandis Ecton, State Farm Insurance Broker and MDBBA Member.

“The downtown location is an extremely productive, and professional environment. It allows me to have a

convenient workspace outside of my office.”

The grand opening of the BBRC is open to the public.

Registration is required.

Please visit mdbba.com to register. For more information regarding the BBRC please email info@mdbba. com.

Commentary:

Better Safe Than Sorry: Why You Need A Solid Document Retention Policy

By Jehan Crump Gibson (Wolverine Bar Association)

Customer Smith called you to get a copy of his purchase orders from the month before last before he places his next large order. Can you quickly retrieve and send them to him? You’re in the middle of a contentious lawsuit with a former employee and are asked to provide the employee’s disciplinary records from last year. Can you pull these and get them to your attorney quickly?

What if there’s a surprise financial audit? Will you be ready?

If you can answer yes to these questions, then either you are following a good document retention policy OR you got lucky. We certainly hope it’s the former! But if it’s the latter, we want you to be able to rely on a good policy that can be put to the test in any scenario from this point forward!

Let’s start with the basics. At minimum, a good

document retention policy identifies what sorts of documents need to be kept, how and where they are stored and guidelines for what period of time they are kept before they are destroyed (if ever). Not only do you want to make sure you have a clear policy BUT that ALL staff are trained on the policy to prevent mishaps as best as possible. A good policy can also cut down on clogging of valuable storage space.

Here’s the thing- there is no universal document retention policy that covers all businesses. There is no ‘one size fits all’. Different industries may have different mandates and certain local, state and federal laws may specify certain documents that must be retained and for how long.

There are some records all businesses should plan to keep forever. Some of these include: the Articles of Incorporation/ Organization; Financial Statements, Insurance Policies, Minutes, Corporate Resolutions, Deeds, Mortgages, Tax Returns and depending on the business, more.

As far as customer information, certain employee records, contracts and other important documents are concerned, every business owner should work closely with an attorney to ensure a policy is crafted that will take into account compliance with laws, risk management efforts and other factors.

So…do you REALLY NEED it? You absolutely do! Whether it’s Uncle Sam, a disgruntled employee, a state agency or a contracting source, you do not want to function on a haphazard retention policy or without one at all. These are the kinds of things small business owners take for granted

or don’t spend time thinking about because they are so consumed with the day-today operations of the business. BUT failure to address this issue can ultimately HAMPER your day-to-day operations and put your business at risk. Protect yourself on the front end so that you will not have to worry on the back end!

Jehan Crump-Gibson is a member of Wolverine Bar Association and the Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Great Lakes Legal Group PLLC. After earning dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Political Science and English from Michigan State University, Jehan obtained her Juris Doctorate from Wayne State University Law School. A Past President of the Wolverine Bar Association and Wolverine Bar Foundation, Jehan serves as a Contributor and Advisory Board Member for the Institute of Continuing Legal Education on probate and estate planning and business law matters.

“I’m really honored about this work – it is important for everyone to have clarity; better understanding [about] what came before us,” Scott said, adding that it’s important to have a “good vantage point” of living in the present and “molding lives” as the Museum looks to the future.

Scott added that while looking to the future, a reckoning is apparent with Black culture and history.

“So many people ... need to know a little more about African American history and culture – it’s American history, world history,” Scott said, adding that it shouldn’t be separated from the totality of history. “Period. Because African Americans played a dominant role; we can look back to Africa, the beginnings of the United States – things happening in modern-day.”

He added that if people had a greater understanding of history even more than they do now, they would know that it’s important to look at what has happened historically to Black people and look to museums as not just a “treasure box” but a “toolbox” with the understanding that “history is evolving” and should be studied to avoid replicating the same mistakes.

“What we’re living in now is going to be history,” Scott said. “It is important that it has relevancy today... it’s really jarring, too, a lot of the fights we thought would be over or things we thought we successfully ended -- folks finding different ways to circle back and present them.”

Scott said it’s important to “be on guard” and pay attention and celebrate history while learning along the way.

“This fight we are fighting never ends -it continues,” he said, adding that the museum is passionate about opening minds and changing lives with history that some people don’t know.

From digital exhibitions featuring augmented reality to upcoming talks about reparations – The Wright has a host of programs taking place that Scott is happy to be a part of.

Germaine Williams, vice president for development at the Wright, said that Scott adds tremendous value to the role.

“Cedric brings incredible experience to the role,” Williams said. “It has been energizing having him on board. The Wright maintains a very special position in Detroit’s history and cultural life. Cedric brings a passion for connecting more people to the Wright, which is critical to us as we slowly emerge from a very challenging period due to the pandemic.”

For more information, visit www.thewright.org.

Email Staff Writer Sherri Kolade story ideas at skolade@michronicle.com.

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3/24/21 11:25 AM

September 1-7, 2021 • michiganchronicle.com • Page A-7

Power Play increases non-jackpot prizes only and does not apply to Double Play prizes. Odds of winning Powerball/ Double Play: 0+1: 1 in 39; 1+1: 1 in 92; 2+1: 1 in 702; 3+0: 1 in 580; 3+1: 1 in 14,495; 4+0: 1 in 36,526; 4+1: 1 in 913,130; 5+0: 1 in 11,688,054; 5+1: 1 in 292,201,338. Overall odds of winning: 1 in 25.

Knowing your limits is always the best bet. Call the Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline for confidential help at 1-800-270-7117.

Page A-8 • michiganchronicle.com •

September 1-7, 2021

Michigan Chronicle

2021

INDUCTION CEREMONY UNAPOLOGETICALLY

BLACK To nominate visit https://michiganchronicle.com/moe2021nominations/ Nominations Close September 17, 2021

City ity.. Life ife.. Style.

B1 | September 1-7, 2021

Where City Meets Life and Life Meets Style

michiganchronicle.com

Detroit Riverfront Conservancy Announces Full Music Line Up For West Riverfront Block Party The lineup for the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy’s new West Riverfront Block Party event features local artists performing music from several different genres, including soul, funk, Latin Jazz and pop, as well as performances from headliners Kelly Price and El DeBarge. West Riverfront Block Party takes place Saturday, September 18 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. at West Riverfront Park, which is located at 1801 W. Jefferson in downtown Detroit.

In addition to the national and local music acts, West Riverfront Block Party will feature acrobatic Jet-Ski demonstrations by Typhoon Tommy, food trucks, and the family-friendly Adventure Zone that features interactive games, a 300-foot zip line and other activities.

Musical performances begin at 11:30 a.m. on the local stage with Detroit-area entertainers scheduled throughout the day. National headliners Kelly Price and El DeBarge take the Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort stage that evening.

El DeBarge is Detroit-born singer-songwriter, musician and producer. He was lead singer of the family group DeBarge. Popular songs include “Time Will Reveal,” “Who’s Holding Donna Now,” “Stay with Me,” “All This Love,” “Who’s Johnny” and “Rhythm of the Night.”

Big Sean Takes Over Detroit

Big Sean

with Annual D.O.N. Weekend!

Kelly Price and El DeBarge Kelly Price is a Grammy-nominated R&B and gospel singer/ songwriter. She made a name for herself as a backing vocalist for Mariah Carey and The Notorious B.I.G. Her hits include “As We Lay,” “Friend of Mine” with Ron Isley, and “Heartbreak Hotel” with Whitney Houston and Faith Evans.

“We’re excited to welcome people to West Riverfront Park for this family-friendly event,” said Rachel Frierson, director of programming for the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy. “With a great musical lineup, wonderful food and fun activities, West Riverfront Block will have something for everyone.”

Twenty of Detroit’s most popular food trucks will provide food for purchase throughout the day, including Jackson’s Five Star Motown Bistro, Tres Leches, TruckShuka, Smoke ‘n Pig BBQ and more.

The Adventure Zone features obstacles courses, inflatable games and a thrilling 300-foot zip line that provides sweeping views of the Detroit and Windsor sky lines. Children’s activities and programming will include makeand-take crafts, fun experiments from the Michigan Science Center and a monster mural.

Admission to West Riverfront Block Party is $5. Children under three are admitted free.

For more information about the West Riverfront Block Party, please visit https://www.riverfrontblockparty.com

Rapper Big Sean, together with The Sean Anderson Foundation and The Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan kicked off the third annual D.O.N. Weekend, bringing the city a weekend of fun, impact and inspiration.

To usher in the weekend, D.O.N. Weekend hosted a block club party complete with entertainment and a celebrity kickball tournament. The Celebrity Clowns, known for their act in the UniverSOUL Circus, made an appearance and performed for the children while the Detroit Fire Department gave them a tour around a fire

truck. Detroit officials were also present to represent their stake in Detroit’s children. Detroit City Council President Pro Tem Mary Sheffield was present to engage the community and participate as the opposing team in the celebrity-packed kickball game; Team Sean versus Team Sheffield.

“There’s so much potential in the city, I see it everyday in and out of our neighborhood. They just need opportunity, they need mentorship and that is what Shawn Wilson does here and that’s what The Sean Anderson Foundation does as

well,” says Detroit City Council President Pro Tem Mary Sheffield.

Looking to greatly impact the children of Detroit and those who visit BGCSM, the rapper is providing the opportunity to learn music with a more hands-on approach. Unveiling a new recording studio within The Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan, the rapper is fusing his love of music with his love of the city. The state-of-the-art studio was crafted with everything needed to record and edit songs including a drum set within the studio to

See D.O.N. WEEKEND Page B-2

Pro Temp Mary Sheffield, Jennifer Demello-Johnson, Big Sean, Myra Amderson, Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist, Shawn Wilson (left to right)

The Smell of Detroit fragrance is Black-owned, Detroit-made and selling locally, nationally and in places like Dubai.

Photo courtesy of The Smell of Detroit

Detroit Perfume Line Goes Hard by Reppin’ City Everywhere

By Sherri Kolade If you could bottle up Detroit, what would that smell be?

Would it smell like grit and hustle? Black soul and resilience? Or vibes on vibes on vibes?

For native Detroiter Chris Witherspoon, 28, that smell is easy to describe – it’s none other than bossy, superb and elegant, naturally.

He would know as the owner of Detroit-made unisex fragrance line, The Smell of Detroit, which opened in 2017. The growing line is flourishing – and in a league of its own -and Witherspoon is ensuring everybody, literally, puts on for his city.

“I just wanted to make a smell different from everybody,” the lifelong Eastside resident said of creating his popular product that Trina and Lil’ Bossie know about.

The Smell of Detroit, which has

thousands of followers on Instagram and on Facebook, is described as a unique signature unisex fragrance that is popular in Detroit and throughout the nation. The local following is growing, however, nationally and internationally.

Fans scrolling on the fragrance’s lines will come across countless locals and plenty others reppin’ none other than the fragrance that brings them back to the D. The fragrance was introduced on local radio stations and is featured inside malls like Fairlane and throughout shops in Detroit.

The business idea and its launch and operation began over five years ago with Witherspoon working from home delivering to customers and now is selling the fragrance worldwide in places like Dubai.

The fragrance made comes in three sizes and three different bot-

tles: a one ounce roll-on applicator at $10; a one-third ounce roll-on applicator at $20; and a four ounce spray perfume bottle at $40.

Witherspoon said that his business was inspired by an idea from his late cousin, Lisa Ford, who passed away at just 23 years old from a car accident in 2012.

“I was working a job and she was like, ‘You need to come up with something different; make a smell or something,” he said, adding that they mixed oils “back in the day” about seven years ago. She implanted the idea in 2016.”

Back then he was working at an automotive plant, and he looked up how to create smells.

Not one to simply clock in for the rest of his life, Witherspoon knew he had to do something more, and in honor of his cousin.

See PERFUME Page B-2

Page B-2 • michiganchronicle.com • September 1-7, 2021

D.O.N. Weekend

From page B-1

provide a live music feel.

Filled with motivational quotes pulled from Big Sean’s chart-topping hits, the studio is more than a place to make music, the studio is just one of the ways the rapper is giving back a place close to his heart.

“The Boys and Girls Club is a place I used to come to when I was coming up. We would just hoop and go there; it was just a safe place for us.

So, it’s cool to have a full circle moment and to be opening studios for them and give people the opportunity to and an outlet to record,” says Big Sean.

On a continual journey of pouring back into the city’s youth, The Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan and its partnership with The Anderson Foundation has always been fluid. With true passion on display, Myra Anderson, Executive Director and President of the foundation, intrigued the BCGSM organization from the start. Now, years later, the relationship is still thriving.

“I could feel that they authentically wanted to give back,” says Shawn Wilson, President of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan.

“The passion from Myra, to be honest, sold me because I knew that Sean had someone heading up his organization who is super passionate and would give the time to do it.”

As Detroit continues to develop, Black entrepreneurs are creating a space for generational wealth and economic mobility. Teaching children to be ready for a career, launching a start-up and homeownership, BGCSM is laying the foundation and using D.O.N. Weekend as a way to showcase not only talent, but the result of turning dreams to reality.

Big Sean plans to give back to the community in a number of other ways. Joining the Detroit Pistons in 2020 as the Creative Director of Innovation, the rapper is helping to create a new social experience in the Motor City. The Gathering Spot, a Black-owned

Perfume From page B-1

“I had to get out of the plant. I had to change my life,” he said, adding that working at the plant he was “still broke,” living check to check.

“I was always struggling,” he said, adding that when he started his business, he told himself that he “can’t come back” to the plant.

“I started working for myself,” he said, adding that his lucrative career as a rising entrepreneur has paid off handsomely for him.

He said that he and his team “put in the footwork” to go to different cities and take the smell everywhere they go.

“Now, different representatives everywhere, all over, are pushing the product,” he said, adding that when he meets people outside of Detroit, he appeals to their tourist side and encourages them to take home a piece of Detroit. “When we out of town [some] people never been to Detroit in California don’t know where Detroit is … when they smell this [fragrance], this smell is the first thing

D.O.N Weekend Crowd Atlanta-based social club for African Americans, has expanded to other cities such as D.C. and Los Angeles and will soon call Detroit its home. Shared exclusively, the rapper, together with several private Black investors across the city, will help to bring the social club to the city.

“This with the able to estly, it

to what has always been core to TGS; Black folks,” says Ryan Wilson, CEO and co-founder of The Gathering Spot. “There is no city that’s more Black than Detroit and to do this right, this has to be a place where we expand.”

Concluding the weekend, health and wellness

were also on the itinerary as Jamel Randall, owner of The Trap Yoga and Massage Studio, taught yoga.

The youth of BGCSM also put on a fashion show displaying original designs.

The Industry Club presented fashions by Erica Trussell and her “Beauty in the Birthmark” col-

lection; Kenzy Wilson’s “Fashion Through The Decades;” and Ronnie Booth and Jayla Harris “Beautiful Opposition.”

The Industry Club gives youth professional experience in niche fieldsgrowing knowledge and developing the next generation of entrepreneurs.

is a special city folks we’ve been meet, and hon(Detroit) is true

that hits them. … I like to say … it is our sauce. Wherever we go we got that, we got to spread.”

Back at home, he said, of course, a lot of locals love to buy from one of their own.

“Of course, this is home -- so a lot of people... support anything Detroit, Black-owned for sure,” he said adding “the love is here.”

Dimi Johnson, a salesperson at The Smell of Detroit, said that she’s been a part of the fragrance company for the past three months.

“It smells really good,” Johnson said. “We go to stores, go out of town -- just everywhere. I’m used to it now but everybody loves it.”

Johnson added that meeting other people and introducing them to the fragrance can “change somebody’s day.”

“Somebody having a bad day -- it will literally change their day; make them smell better and feel better,” she added.

For more information find The Smell of Detroit on Instagram @thesmellofdetroit or Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheSmellofDetroit/.

LEADING WITH A CLEAN VISION

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action now to ensure a healthier, happier future for generations to come. Already, we’re on track to double the amount of energy generated from wind and solar in just two years. And you, Michigan, can help. Together we can create a cleaner environment for our children, grandchildren and beyond.

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September 1-7, 2021 • michiganchronicle.com •

Page B-3

The Adult Treasure Chest Top Toys for Adults

By Megan Kirk Toys are not just for kids. Many women are already familiar with B.O.B, or the battery-operated boyfriend. The handy dandy tool a woman can whip out to please herself or serve as an additional kink with her partner has continuously evolved over the years. Now, there is a new sheriff in town and it’s giving the girls rosy cheeks.

Recently, a new toy hit adult shelves and has been filling up treasure chests ever since. The Rose is a small handheld device that is small enough to fit into the palm of a hand, but packs a punch. Designed with multiple settings and functions, women all over social media have taken to the platforms to sound the alarm about The Rose and the news is spreading.

“It’s handheld and it’s really small. You wouldn’t think it was as powerful as it is. The other sex toys, I don’t think, have as many functions as The Rose and on top of that, it’s cute,” Darnetta Anderson, owner of Darnetta’s Boutique, a mobile shopping experience that carries everything from women’s clothing to adult toys.

According to Statista, more than 80 percent of women over the age of 18 own a vibrator. The Rose, which is also waterproof, is not only a vibrator, but has seven massage levels to help liven up any mood.

The Rose was designed for its discretion, convenience and hours of play.

Providing up to two full hours of continuous play when fully charged, The Rose also features a rotating airflow to simulate oral sex.

As the toy grows in popularity, manufacturers are adding new features to make it as pleasing as possible.

Skincare for

“I notice now they have a Rose with a handle,” says Anderson.

By Megan Kirk

Originally gaining much of its popularity through TikTok, the new obsession became a number one seller for Amazon and shows no signs of slowing down. Women across social media have increased the toy’s lure with vivid word-of-mouth stories of thrill and excitement.

Skincare is a tricky topic as each skin type needs different remedies. For African Americans, melanated skin can cause issues with acne others may not have to battle. While acne is colorblind, there are some conditions that seem to affect darker skin more severely.

However, popular brands are offering a solution to those pesky pimples.

“I sold out and made a post on my social media asking ladies if they were still interested in The Rose or if there was something else out there that was needed. The Rose is still popular,” says Anderson.

Aside from The Rose and other vibrators, classic goodies like lubricants and games continue to rein supreme. In a recent study, along with vibrators, dildos and lubricants claimed the top spot.

The multi-billion-dollar industry for the global sex toys market is steadily growing. Estimated to be worth close to $34 billion by 2028, the industry is expected to expand by an additional eight percent. Private sellers, like Anderson, are getting into the industry and not only profiting, but having fun during the process.

“I got into the sex toy industry because it’s popular. It’s really fun, you’re more free,” says Anderson.

During the pandemic, many sex toy shops reported an increase in revenue. Looking to stay entertained in lockdown, adults, particularly women in relationships, flooded lines and stocked up on new toys to enjoy.

“You have the remote-control panties and those are for partners where you can play around with your partner. I also sell the small lipstick.

You can just put it in your purse and it’s a cute little lipstick vibrator,” says Anderson. “It’s just small and cute and no one would know. It just looks like a little tube of lipstick.”

The evolution of adult toys is helping to create more comfort around the topic of sex. As society continues to push taboo topics, the stigma around self-play and toys begins to dissipate.

“I think people are just more comfortable. I don’t know if it’s the music, but everyone is just more comfortable. Back in the day we wouldn’t just talk about a rose. People are just more free,” says Anderson.

As with anything, cleanliness is key. It is important to clean toys after each use. While there are cleaning solutions made exclusively for toys, The Rose uses a simple method.

“With The Rose, you can just use soap and water as it is waterproof,” says Anderson.

All over social media sites, including YouTube, beauty gurus are peeling the lid back on skincare tips and tricks for brown skin girls. From aloe to steaming, facial routines have become a staple in self-care.

Rich with melanin, the chemical causing pigment darkening, African American skin can react if exposed to trauma. Breakouts, cuts and even plastic surgery can all cause the body to overproduce melanin causing dark marks on the skin called hyperpigmentation.

However, no matter the skin ailment, urban brands are looking to bring a solution to all Black skincare needs. Here are three brands created by African Americans for their skin.

Originally founded in 2018, Buttah skincare was founded by model Dorion Renaud.

Featured in many top-selling lifestyle magazines including Essence and Black Enterprise and highlighted by Beyoncé, BET and BuzzFeed, Buttah helps manage dryness, discol-

oration, oiliness and blemishes.

“I couldn’t keep this discovery to myself knowing that there were men and women with melanin-rich skin just like me, who are actively seeking solutions for their complexion challenges. I created Buttah Skincare for you and everyone who is searching for products that work. It’s a skincare regimen that was born out of my personal experiences and it’s luxurious, highly efficacious and affordable. Most of all, Buttah Skincare combines ingredients derived from natural sources with hi-tech formulations that work together to give our skin amazing results,” according to the website.

With close to 40,000 followers on Instagram, Hyper Skin shows results for all skin tones. Made initially to cure hyperpigmentation from her teen years, the founder created a formula to not only target dark marks, but also help with blemishes, brightness and moisture.

“I’ve had acne since I was a teenager and that has always been followed by large dark marks. A couple of years ago, after a horrible bout of hormonal acne and stubborn hyperpigmentation, I couldn’t find a skincare line dedicated to addressing this pressing skincare concern. I was also incredibly disappointed by the lack of diversity from skincare brands. So, I set out to create what I felt was sorely missing,” says creator and founder Desiree Verdejo. “Hyper Skin is an easy, results-oriented skincare brand rooted in multiculturalism. We’re hyper-targeted on treating

dark spots and discoloration on all skin tones, and enhancing glow.”

Oui the People, pronounced we the people is a popular skincare brand created to help all parts of the body. With products intended to target ingrown hairs, razor burn and oily skin, this brand also provides items to help moisturize your skin. Formally launched in 2015 under Why Oui Shave, the brand revamped and changed its name in 2020 to represent the diversity displayed in its shoppers.

“With OUI the People came a mission: The reConstitution of Beauty is our commitment to “watch our language”. No brand is just a brand. Clearly. Brands inform culture and language, as beauty has done for decades. We believe beauty shouldn’t come at the expense of our psyche. Rather than pursuing flawlessness, we aim to build efficacious products, designed thoughtfully, that help you feel great in the skin you’re already in,” says an excerpt of the site from Karen Young, the company’s founder. “As to the name change? Well, we’ve had a community of non-binary customers sharing their love of OUI since our launch in 2015. We’ve changed our name to reflect the People because your most intimate experiences with beauty should feel like you’ve been seen.”

Each product is crafted by a Black brand and made especially for skincare concerns specific to the community. Despite this, individuals from all ethnic backgrounds can use each brand’s line.

3 Ways to Fuse Art and Nature in Your Home (StatePoint) Beyond sprucing up your work and living environs, there’s certainly much to love about houseplants, whether it’s the simple act of taking care of something or the fact that some varietals can even improve the air quality in your home (peace lilies, we’re looking at you).

However, if you’re like many people who have done virtually everything from home this past year, your living room has turned into a veritable plant nursery.

Rather than add more plants to your living spaces haphazardly, consider these easy tips from LiveTrends, a company that creates and designs over 500 original living art product collections each year: • Befriend color. When it comes to pots for your greenery, succulent and shrubs, you may think neutral is the way to go. Think again. Right now, it’s all about attention-grabbing colors, such as the mustard, navy and wine, which are featured in the Harvest Votive and Agatha styles from LiveTrends’ fall 2021 collection. When you fuse nature with bold hues, you can easily elevate a houseplant into art status.

Bonus: You don’t have to shell out serious dough like you would for framed wall art or a sculpture.

• Add joy. The pandemic accelerated

the plant parent trend and many found themselves deeply embracing “biophilia,” or the innate desire to connect with nature -- from the great indoors that is. To give you a moment of joy during your day or even perk up your Zoom background, look for whimsical and fun plant designs.

• Make holiday swaps. Add vitality to your holiday home decorating game by swapping in festive plants for elements in your regular lineup. During Halloween for example, LiveTrends offers

designs like the delightfully ghoulish yogi skeleton mini plants, a collection of skeleton figures seated in Sukhasana pose. During the winter holiday season, their “Snomann” plants make a cute and festive addition to your mantel or tablescape.

For more design inspiration and tips or to view the latest collections, visit instagram.com/livetrendsdesign.

By fusing nature with art, you can elevate your houseplant collection and create truly beautiful living spaces in your home.

Page B-4 • michiganchronicle.com •

September 1-7, 2021

Where You Parentified as a Child?

By Sherri Kolade Growing up is not for the faint of heart.

In fact, growing up faster than expected could be a recipe for trauma and resentment, especially if it’s caused by parents who unintentionally, or, let’s be honest, intentionally parentified their children.

According to Psychology Today Magazine, parentification can happen when children are made to grow up faster than they should.

Parentification is a form of “role reversal” in a nuclear family where a child is now taking on parental duties. As a result, they have stepped down a bit from their childhood role and are now stepping into roles like their parents’ friends, their siblings’ caretaker, a family mediator or more.

When facing these extra tasks (not to be confused with age-appropriate typical chores or housework) children can feel tired, withdrawn and unkempt – especially school-age children.

According to the article, parentification is a form of “role reversal” in a nuclear family where a child is now taking on parental duties. As a result, they have stepped down a bit from their childhood role and are now stepping into roles like their parents’ friends, their siblings’ caretaker, a family mediator or more.

In the majority of instances of parentification, the parents do genuinely love their child, there isn’t any physical abuse or a shortage of love – it’s just with “limited capacity” according to the article.

The article states that this is a type of boundary violation because the childhood that one is supposed to have is “robbed away.”

Emotional parentification, according to the article, is when a young child must meet the emotional needs of their parent(s), siblings or other family members on a regular basis, per the article.

Some parents have wounds

The second form of parentification is instrumental/material/ physical parentification, which is similar to emotional parentification but just strictly revolving around physical and material things.

Parents who either take no interest in the practical household duties and responsibilities that need to get done might put this job on their child. Children in this form of parentification are then made to be responsible for everything from organizing mealtime, tending to siblings and more.

“One form of childhood trauma that is rarely talked about, but remains insidious and toxic, is parentification,” according to the article. Parentification can be chronic and invisible – unlike physical abuse, but still just as hurtful and painful and could lead to depression.

There are various forms of parentification which can unfold in two ways: emotional parentification and instrumental parentification.

“Usually, enmeshment is involved. The child is made to feel guilty if they want to be left alone,” according to the article.

“They feel obligated to meet their parent’s needs at the drop of a hat and responsible for their happiness.”

of their own which could result in them not being stable or emotionally healthy enough to recognize what they’re doing, then in turn, damage their children.

“Childish and emotionally under-developed parents tend to be preoccupied with their own life’s tasks or are constantly overwhelmed by their own distress, and do not have any

bandwidth to see their child or children’s wants and needs,” per the article.

Typically, sensitive children, empaths and “gifted children” are more easily able to fall into the parentification trap.

The toxic family dynamic, though, could veer into dangerous territory with what the article calls covert or emotional incest, where a parent seeks

their child for the support and connection they would usually get from a partner. For example, a parent might inappropriately tell their child about their sexual frustration, cry often in front of the child, sleep in the same bed with the child/adolescent to escape partner intimacy or even make sexualized comments about the child’s growing body.

Healing, however, is available for the parentified child.

This can come in the form of sharing one’s story about their childhood experiences.

It could also come in the form of removing the feelings of guilt associated with how, as a child, they were raised, because being parentified was not their fault, according to the article.

Acknowledging, above all, that as a child they were parentified, can be the first step toward healing and showing up fully in that truth.

Be the Boss of Your Own Time

By Sherri Kolade What do Oprah Winfrey, President Joe Biden and NBA legend LeBron James have in common? They all have 24 hours in the day.

Yet, with these successful rich American celebrities and leaders still paving the way and showing what it looks like to be a boss, many everyday people with the same 24 hours in their own day might still be wondering how do they manage?

According to https://www. tonyrobbins.com/, the average person spends 110 hours per year commuting to work; 275 hours per year running errands; 450 hours per year eating and drinking and 1,011 hours per year watching television.

The article said that time is “the one thing that keeps on rolling, no matter what we do” and no matter who you are.

“And if we could choose a superhero power, many of us would probably choose to

freeze it, just so we could buy ourselves a few more minutes, hours, or even days to get something done. It’s one of life’s most precious gifts, no doubt. Why, then, do so many of us spend time inefficiently or even give our time up so willingly,” the article asks.

When people see the breakdown of how they really spend time, they might be tempted to re-evaluate how they spend their time, according to the article.

“Mindless moments add up.

But what if you began to take note of how you spent your time and made a few small adjustments,” the article queried.

If the time spent in front of the television was decreased by only 10 percent, the typical person would save about 100 hours a year.

That free time could be replaced by listening to motivating podcasts, audiobooks or encouraging materials that could lead to a boost in ­personal productivity.

Another way to improve time is to simply say “no.”

Saying no can be helpful with time management and not being so readily available for everyone and anything – that can cut down on time. The article added that it is important to show up for “self first” then be ready to show up for others, once well-rested and refreshed.

The article added that free time is not wasted time. Free time could be spent with loved ones and doing what is important to you.

Once shifting how to spend time more appropriately, and using those 24 hours wisely, it will allow for opportunities to create a “powerful sense of

purpose, drive and fulfillment every single day.”

“One reason so few of us achieve what we truly want is that we never direct our focus; we never concentrate our power. Most people dabble their way through life, never deciding to master anything in particular,” Robbins is quoted as saying.

Classifieds PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED Electrical Engineer Horizon Global Americas Inc. seeks an Electrical Engineer in Plymouth, MI, to develop and execute DV / PV test plans, coordinate workflow with outside test labs, ensure compliance to requirements and write reports; among other duties. Min. bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Manufacturing Engineering and two years of experience in the job offered or related. Mail resume to: Georgia Branham, Horizon Global Americas Inc., 47912 Halyard Drive, Suite 100, Plymouth, MI 48170, Ref# 12088737.

Software Developer – Android Warren, MI, General Motors. Analyze, perform design, &dvlp automotive infotainment SW for major HMI &UI enhancements to psgr vehicle infotainment sys &Vehicle IP Cluster on Android platform applying MVC &MVVM design patterns.

Analyze software defects, determine root cause, &create, test &verify SW solutions. Dvlp Machine Learning/Computer Vison prototype apps for Vehicle safety incldg detecting pedestrians &providing lane guidance to the user while driving. Dvlp &architect Android apps using XML files for front end input. Write Java &Kotlin programming to simulate functional reqmts w/ IBM Rational Rhapsody to model screen flow, data population &functional behavior. Dvlp infotainment apps implementing MQTT machine to machine protocol to communicate betw. embedded &Android devices. Master, Computer Science, Computer Engrg, or related. 12 mos exp as Developer or Engineer, designing or dvlpg Android based HMI infotainment SW applying MVC &MVVM patterns, or related.

Mail resume to Ref#34582, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

Quality Engineer New Boston, MI, Brose North America. Analyze &continuously improve processes, applying qlty assurance techniques &SAP ERP Quality Management (QM) module tools to increase overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) &reduce failure rates, customer &warranty claims, &scrap costs during high volume production of proprietary psgr vehicle seat syss, door modules, &cooling fan modules at high volume cmpnt mfg plant. Analyze &coordinate implementation of engrg solutions for seats production line faults applying poka yoke error proofing sys. Apply DMAIC data control driven methodology, based on statistical tools such as Pareto, Process Capability/Performance &Design of Experiments anlys, to identify &solve root causes of problems. Apply Red X Shainin techniques to complement root cause anlys using eight disciplines problem solving to correct chronic issues w/ proprietary seats, doors, &drives syss, incldg updating problem-solving data in global SharePoint sys.

Bachelor, Ind. &Systems Engrg, Mechanical Engrg, Mfg Engrg, or related. 12 mos exp as Engineer, analyzing &improving processes, applying qlty assurance techniques &SAP QM module tools to increase OEE &reduce failure rates, warranty claims, &scrap costs during high volume production of psgr vehicle door module, or seat cmpnts, at high volume cmpnt mfg plant, or related. Mail resume to Ref#133-204, Brose, Human Resources, 3933 Automation Ave, Auburn Hills, MI 48326.

September 1-7, 2021 • michiganchronicle.com • Page B-5 HELP WANTED

PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Design Release Engineer Battery Module Senseline Assemblies Warren, MI, General Motors. Engr, design, integrate, perform tolerance stackups, &release BEV Vehicle psgr car &SUV modules, incldg senseline assemblies, incldg busbars, Interconnect Boards, Printed Circuit Boards, Flexible Printed Circuits, &electrical devices incldg thermistors, capacitors &fuses, using UG NX, Tc, Vismockup, &Engrg Change Mgmt tools.

Participate in RESS &module integration team meetings, &support module engrg designs &generate technical solutions for BEV prgrms. Create senseline assy Bill of Material (BOM) as senseline assy BOM owner. Monitor Pre Production engrg builds of modules at Battery Assy Plant to ensure plant has accurate BOMs &proper assy tools acquired &on hand during prototype builds. Support supplier sourcing process by initiating &compiling appendixes of Statement of Reqmts w/ technical reviews. Dvlp initial design/concept of senseline assemblies to facilitate dvlpmt process for suppliers. Search new supplier w/ advanced technology &set up technical review meeting to update supplier pool. Required travel by private automobile to Battery Plant in OH, &supplier plants in MI to review senseline assy designs, fixtures specs, eqpmnt functionality, &debug &validate tooling, machinery &eqpmnt, 2 mos P/A (~17% annual travel). Bachelor, Mechanical, Electrical, or Automotive Engrg. 12 mos exp as Engineer, engrg, integrating, performing tolerance stackups, &releasing psgr vehicle senseline, body, or battery cmpnts, using UG NX, Tc, &Vismockup tools, or related. Mail resume to Ref#1501, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

Export Operations Aftersales Manager Warren, MI, General Motors. Assure all export markets (country &region), for GMNA Completely Built up (CBU) export vehicles distributed to EU, UK, Israel, Palestinian Natl Authority Area, Egypt, Middle East, Russia, Korea &Japan, are service ready at start of sale. Plan &ensure export market deliverables incldg dealer service manuals; labor times by repair; technical maintenance &predelivery inspection instruction docs; customer service literature; dealer special tools; service parts release for timely ordering; warehouse parts availability for ordering; &dealer tech &field personnel training readiness, incldg timely authoring &translation of service manuals, vehicle technical maintenance &pre-delivery inspection instruction docs, &customer service literature.

Plan, track, monitor, &review escalations (internal, dealer &customer) for export market Brand Qlty; Safety & Field Investigations; Warranty Policies, Procedures &Admin.; Launch Readiness incldg parts readiness; Parts Ordering/ Core Return Processes; &Supply Chain (parts admin), &execution of warranty decisions, field actions, dealer mgmt relations, &parts sales ordering &control solutions. Dvlp &implement product improvements, repair procedures &communications (Bulletins, Service Info, Global Connect messages, videos &presentations) for dealers, technicians &field personnel in export markets. Supervise European Aftersales Mgr &Export Brand Qlty Mgr, &indirect responsibility for team members dedicated to CBU export business. Bachelor, Bus. Admin., Management, Supply Chain, For. Trade, or related. 36 mos exp as Vehicle Aftersales Service Mgr or General Mgr; Vehicle Sales, Service, &Marketing Mgr or General Mgr; or related, planning, tracking, &reviewing escalations (dealer &customer) for country or region market Brand Qlty; Safety & Field Investigations; Warranty Policies &Admin.; Launch Readiness; &Parts Ordering Process, or related. Mail resume to Ref#1354, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

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Seeking Assistant II Seeking Seeking Medical OFFICE ASSISTANT III III OFFICE ASSISTANT at Oakland University AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY atGraham Oakland University Health Center

School of Medicine CoordinateAcademic the clinicalAffairs processing in a clinic by performing a variety Tomedical provide specialized officeassistance, assistance, To provide specialized office procedural business ofcoordinating multi-step procedural processes according to a or coordinating business or service activitiesof procedures for a complex specified framework and service activities forinvolving a complex program program area processing, regulations, to serve as an informationarea involving processing, implementing, advising and al implementing, source within the clinic inon,addition reporting specialized subject matter. advising on, and reporting to maintaining the role as a specialized medical Minimum High school subject matter.

Qualifications: assistant in Qualifications: the Minimum clinic. Minimum Qualgraduation or an equivalent combination ifications: High Schoolorgraduation or High school graduation an equivalent of education and experience. Four anyears equivalent combination educacombination of education and ofexperience. progressively responsible office tion and progressively experience. years’ office exexperience, including Three direct experience Four years responsible perience ascoordination, a medical assistant or in in office i.e., prioritizing experience, including direct experience in a work directly related fieldmaintaining with experience assignments, work office coordination, i.e., prioritizing work in flow medical office clerical functions.

Exto meet deadlines.

This is a full time, assignments, workand flowobtainto meet perience inmaintaining venipuncture clerical-technical position –occasional and weekends may be including required. deadlines. is a full time, clerical-technical ingnights basicThis patient information SalarySalary is $44,592.00 annually.

See blood pressure, electrocardiograph position. is $43,718.00 annually. online postingand for additional position measurements urine specimens.

See requirements. online posting for additional position consideration This is a part-time First clerical-technical porequirements.

First consideration will will be given to those who apply bybe sition, working Monday-Friday, 10:00 September 9, 2021.

Must apply on23, given to those who apply by March a.m. – 5:00 p.m., 30 hours per week. line to: https://jobs.oakland.edu 2020.

Salary is $30,973.00 annually. See Must apply posting online to: https://jobs.oakland.edu online for additional position requirements. Must apply online PUBLIC WORKS EMPLOYEE to: https://jobs.oakland.edu

CITY OF SOUTHGATE NOTICE

Applications are now being accepted to establish an eligibility list for the following Municipal Employee Civil Service classification:

2col. x 4.75

Starting rate $14.00 per hour This classification performs unskilled operations in the repair and maintenance of streets, public works, recreation areas and utilities. This classification may also perform minor automotive repair.

Qualifications as established by the Michigan Municipal League for this position include •A valid Driver’s License •High School Diploma or Equivalent •Must be 18 years of age.

A complete Job Qualification/Summary is available upon request at Southgate City Clerk’s Office, City Hall, 14400 Dix-Toledo, Southgate, MI when you pick-up your application Monday through Friday between 9:00AM and 4:00PM. No resumes please.

Civil Service examination is required and test will be given at a later date. You will be notified of date, time and place of examination.

Eligibility lists, once established by the Commission, will be effective for two years from date of establishment.

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DEADLINE FOR RETURNING APPLICATIONS: Wednesday, September 15, 2021 by 4:00 pm Ronald Jewell, Chairperson, Municipal Employees Civil Service Commission

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Published Every Wednesday ANNOUNCEMENTS

MICHIGAN CHRONICLE 313 963-5522 Legal Notice

5 Simple, Natural Ways to Boost Immunity George Washington Carver Academy Attention: Employee Leasing Companies

The George Washington Carver Academy is requesting proposals for employee leasing services.

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George Washington Academy c/o Provision Business Solutions RelyMrs. on Alma natural remedies. ModAttention: Hollins lifestyles and ex17336 ern, W. 12stressful Mile – Suite 200 posure to pollutSouthfield, MI environmental 48076

(Family Features) Your body’s immune system protects against illness and infection, fighting off threats before you even know there’s a problem. Even though your immune system usually does its job automatically, you can give it a boost with habits that promote wellness and support immunity.

ants can put immune systems The George Washington Carver AcademyHowever, Board of Education under pressure. some reserves the right to accept or reject any or soothing all proposals or to of your existing rituaccept the proposal that is interest support of the school district. alsin the canbest actually better health, too. One example is reAll proposals must be submitted between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. a hot cup tea.Hollins The at on April 1, 2020. RFPslaxing may bewith requested from of Alma natural and organic ingredients (248) 440-7318 or at alma@provision4solutions.com.

All proposals foundenvelope in Buddha Teas provide should be delivered in a sealed and addressed to George numerous benefits.Employee OpWashington Carver Academy and behealth clearly marked: Leasing Proposal. tions like Mushroom Wellness, Divine Immunity, Elderberry Tea and Reiki Mushroom blends all DETROIT WATER ANDcontain SEWERAGE DEPARTMENT NOTICE immunity-boosting inPUBLIC HEARING FOR WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT gredients.

Eat healthy fruits and vegetables. Although you may not be aware they contain flavonoids, these phytochemicals found in some fruits and veggies are a vital part of maintaining health.

Flavonoids are found in colorful fruits and vegetables like cranberries and elderberries. When it comes to power foods, elderberries’ exceptional flavanol levels make them an immune system powerhouse. Especially important during cold and flu season, elderberries can also be enjoyed in a cup of warm tea for instant comfort.

Reduce stress with outdoor activity. Keeping physically fit provides numerous health benefits such as reducing stress by being one with nature through taking a walk outside. The sun’s UV rays help your body produce vitamin D, which is important for your bones, blood cells and immune system, as well as helping absorb and use certain nu-

FY21 DRINKING WATER REVOLVING FUND (DWRF) PROJECT

While they’re not an obvious

trients. Yoga and massage can also be used to help stimulate the immune system and promote well-being.

Keep a regular sleep schedule.

Sleep gives you an opportunity to recharge. This is when cellu-

lar regeneration and other healing is most efficient. Keeping a regular routine helps signal to your system that it’s time to rest so you can fall asleep easier and reap the whole-body benefits of a healthy sleep cycle.

A Golden Way to Get Better Sleep While golden milk has become a trendy beverage of choice, this comforting, herbfilled blend is actually ancient. For thousands of years, golden milk has been an Ayurvedic ritual, with Indian families enjoying a warm nightly cupful before bed.

In Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric, the main component in golden milk, is thought to impart the energy of the sun to the body, hence its radiant, golden color. Turmeric’s documented healing properties impart substance to this traditional “elixir,” and have given golden milk a reputation as a healing cup of comfort.

In addition to improving physical and mental well-being, regularly drinking golden milk has the potential to lessen your chance

of becoming ill in the first place. It’s also an anti-inflammatory that supports healthy digestion and promotes calm.

This turmeric-dominant blend includes ginger root and black pepper to aid digestion; ashwagandha to tonify, energize and calm; and cardamom, nutmeg and vanilla bean, all meant to encourage rejuvenation and peace. Consider an option like Buddha Teas’ CBD Organic Golden Milk, which includes a THC-free CBD isolate for added wellness benefits.

Prepared by mixing with a warm cup of your favorite milk, the smooth, slightly sweet, pungent brew offers a soothing treat just before bed. Many people also enjoy golden milk prepared cold.

ingredient, mushrooms have The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) announces been incorporated into heala Public Hearing regarding its Project Plan for proposed Water for thousands oflow Main Replacement in theing City practices of Detroit. DWSD will be seeking interest Drinking Water Revolving Fundtheir (DWRF) loan assistance for years for immune-boostFY2021. The project is comprised of replacing aging water main ing, anti-inflammatory and antiin the Jefferson-Chalmersoxidant-rich area of the City of Detroit. Construction properties.

There will include excavation of existing water mains, installation of new are several powerful pipes, rehabilitation of pipes, replacement of leadmedicinal service lines onepressure stand-out between the water mainmushrooms and the waterbut meter, testing, reishi mushroom, known backfill, and right-of-way. is Thethe impact of the project will be improved thereliable “mushroom of immortalcustomer satisfaction andassafe, service delivery of potable water to customers. The ity” temporary impact ofplant construction activities and “divine of longevwill be minimized through measures specified in the ity.”mitigation This anti-inflammatory powWash hands frequently.

Espe-Adverse impacts on historical, archaeological, contract documents. erhouse is known to promote cially during the schoolor year, geographic, cultural areas are not expected. This project is healthy cell growth and healthy necessary to ensure when germs are rampant and that DWSD will consistently and reliably blood along im-Plan qualitytopotable waterpressure, to the residents.

Thewith Project easily carried provide from high school proving immune function. consists of a single project in critical need of water main replacement home, you can give your imThe totalLearn cost of this projectabout is currently estimated more boosting mune system ora rehabilitation. hand, literally, at approximately $20.8 million; which is being sought through the your immunity naturally at budby frequently DWRF scrubbing away program.

The Water Main Replacement/Rehabilitation dhateas.com. germs beforeproject they is have the eligible for participating under the State of Michigan low interest DWRF loan program.

The Public Hearing will present a description of the recommended project, estimated costs, as well as the cost per household impact for customers. The typical residential customer bill in the City of Detroit is expected to increase by not more than approximately 1.13% assuming that low interest loans can be obtained through the DWRF loan program. The purpose of the hearing is not only to inform, but to seek and gather input from people that will be affected.

Comments and viewpoints from the public are encouraged.

THE MEETING WILL BE HELD ON: DATE: Wednesday, April 15, 2020 PLACE: Detroit Police Department 7th Precinct 3501 Chene Street Detroit, MI 48207 TIME: 6:00 p.m.

Information on the Project Plan will be available for review after March 15, 2020 at the following locations: City Website: detroitmi.gov/dwsd OR Detroit Water and Sewerage Department Water Board Building 735 Randolph, 1st Floor, Permitting Detroit, Michigan 48226 If you have questions or want to submit written statements for the Public Hearing Record, call or write:

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• michiganchronicle.com • September 1-7, 2021

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We could not make it through this Pandemic without you!