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Michigan Chronicle

During the 14th Annual Michigan Chronicle Men of Excellence Awards a Ceremony, the Vanguard Awards, Man of the Year Award and O'Neil Swa Achievement Award will be bestowed upon these five outstanding pillars of Join us in celebrating their accomplishments on Thursday, January 27, 202 International in downtown Detroit.

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Vol. 85 – No. 22 | February 2-8, 2022

Whitmer’s Final Term State of the State Takes Notice of MI’s Tomorrow Today

By Sherri Kolade During Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s fourth and final term annual State of the State address (which she delivered the second time virtually) on Wednesday, January 26, she optimistically spoke about her unwavering support of the state’s strength and its residents’ strength after dealing with 2021.

She also remembered the over 30,000 Michiganders whose lives were lost to COVID and those who tragically died at the Oxford High School shooting.

“Due to COVID, we are not in the Capitol. Right now, healthcare professionals are working hard to keep us safe as Omicron surges,” Whitmer said.

“While 2021 wasn’t as miraculous as any of us Governor Gretchen Whitmer wanted, we have made progress. We’re stronger in large part thanks to science and life-saving vaccines. We have come a long way, and I am encouraged about the path ahead.”

Michigan’s Momentum Whitmer, who addressed residents on the day the state celebrated its 185th birthday, spoke to a livestreamed audience at Redford’s Detroit Diesel, which was built in 1938 to help Michigan contribute to the efforts to win World War II. “A lifetime later, it’s home to cutting-edge electric vehicle technology built by the hardworking men and women of UAW Local 163. Places like this are where Michigan’s future will be forged, and I am thrilled to be here,” Whitmer said while delivering the State of the State address.

Whitmer also spoke on the heels of a recent statewide tour where she sat down with Michiganders in their hometowns to discuss policy, priorities and areas to concern.

In her nearly 30-minute address, she also talked about her support for Michiganders, the end of the pandemic, boosting the economy, and fixing the “damn” roads, again.

From lowering the cost of insulin to repealing the retirement tax and more, Whitmer announced plans on how the state could better jumpstart the economy while helping families and business owners in the process.

One of her comprehensive policy proposals and plans for Michigan include cutting taxes for working families by tripling the tax credit for working families, which would deliver an average refund of $3,000 to 730,000 Michiganders by increasing Michigan’s Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC. “Raising the state EITC puts Michiganders first by putting nearly $3,000 back in their pockets when paired with the federal EITC,” said Whitmer in her address. “Michiganders who work full-time but still can’t

See STATE

ADDRESS page A2

WHAT’S INSIDE

KIRK MAYES

GERALD JOHNSON

BISHO

CEO, Forgotten Harvest

Executive Vice President Global Manufacturing and Sustainability General Motors

Chief P Chu

Black History Month 2022:

We’re Still Fighting

By Sherri Kolade “Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time.

We are the ones we’ve been waiting for.

We are the change that we seek.”

U.S. President Barack Obama said that famous quote as an apropos reminder that Black people have accomplished have much but have further to go as we celebrate Black History Month amd prepare to honor the past and present.

Dubbed as the “Father of Black History,” Carter G. Woodson, American historian, author, and journalist, introduced the inaugural celebration of Negro History Week in February 1926.

The holiday week – a predecessor of Black History Month – recognizes key historical and present-day African American pioneers who made significant contributions to society.

A Change is Here Fast forward to the 1960s, Black colleges and universities came together to ensure that African Americans secured their rightful place in history, the movement for a formal acknowledgment again gained traction. First celebrated in 1970 at Ohio’s Kent State University, Black History Month soon spread to other colleges and universities.

Some city officials were celebrating Black History Month in their communities, but it was not until down the line it was a national event.

Extending from one week to a monthlong commemoration, Black History Month has been celebrated since U.S. President Gerald Ford officially recognized the holiday in 1976 while asking the public to “seize the opportunity to RAYaccomCURRY honor the too-often neglected plishments of Black Americans in every President UAW area of endeavor throughout our history.”

“There are so many other women and Black men and women alike who were qualified to serve in this role,” Ison said. “They created a path for me and I am happy to create a path for those who follow. I might be the first but I [will] not DAVE B be the last.”

Former Also, in the housing sector locally, Mayor, Bing Y you can’t look too far without seeingFounder, his-

tory being made. Civil Rights icon Rev. Since then, every U.S. president has Jim Holley, among other city officials designated February as Black History (including Detroit City Council President Month while endorsing a yearly theme, Mary Sheffield and Mayor Mike Duggan), broke ground recently on an million according to History.com.

THURSDAY | JANUARY 27,$182021 | 6 PM This year’s theme for Black History affordable housing project across from Holley’s |Historic Little Rock Baptist International Marketplace 400 Monroe, 8th Floor | Detroit Month 2022 is “Black Health and Wellness,” which taps into the rich history of Church.

Black scholars and medical practitioners The Rev. Dr. Jim Holley Residences, TICKETS, TABLESopening AND SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES AVA in Western medicine while also honorin January 2023, will offer 60 ing doulas, naturopaths, herbalists, and senior affordable housing units, and no senior will pay more than 30% of their more throughout the African Diaspora.

From celebrated Black medical pro- income in rent. The development, to be viders and respected politicians break- built at 9001 Woodward Ave., is just the ing barriers to community activists and latest step in a lifetime of Rev. Holley small business owners doing the thing creating economic empowerment for -- celebrating our strides is what we do Detroiters and helping them meet their to build up the next generation to know basic needs.

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they too can stand on the shoulders of everyday people and giants who look like them.

Detroit’s Giants

Even locally, Greater Detroit has some present-day giants like Dawn N. Ison, Michigan’s first Black female U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan.

Ison is now leading one of the largest U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the country.

The office currently employs around 221 personnel in three locations (Detroit, Flint, and Bay City) and serves over 6.5 million residents.

From marching with Dr. King to facing threats against his life, Rev. Holley has stood the test of time as a servant leader while presiding as senior pastor of Historic Little Rock Baptist Church for more than 40 years.

“I am honored that this building will bear my name because it stands as a symbol for what I have so long sought for my beloved fellow Detroiters and the residents in the North End,” Rev. Holley said.

The late Donald Robinson, 89, also

See WE'RE

STILL FIGHTING page A2

Mayor Duggan and Local Leaders Break Ground On $18M Reverend Holley Residences Mayor Mike Duggan, City Council President Mary Sheffield and other state and city leaders joined the Rev. Jim Holley and MHT Housing Inc. to break ground on an $18 million affordable housing project located across from Holley’s Historic Little Rock Baptist Church. The development will serve as a new anchor along Woodward Avenue in the Piety Hill neighborhood, replacing a vacant building that has been demolished to make way for the new affordable housing.

Former Divorce Court Judge Releases Book for Single Women

City.Life.Style. B1

$1.00

The Rev. Dr. Jim Holley Residences will bring 60 one-bedroom units, all designated as senior affordable housing and all of which will be offered at or below 50 percent area median income (AMI). This translates to no more than $750 a month, however, because of Section 8 project-based vouchers made available through the Detroit Housing Commission, none of the seniors will pay more than 30 percent of their monthly income in rent. The units are for those making less than $28,000 a year, and their affordability is guaranteed for at least the next 40 years.

“I cannot think of a more fitting tribute to Rev. Jim Holley than a building that will provide so much to our community,” Mayor Duggan said. “Rev. Holley has dedicated his life to serving this city, and this project will go a long way to providing quality housing at

deeply affordable rates for decades to come.”

The Rev. Dr. Jim Holley Residences will offer 60 senior affordable housing units, and no senior will pay more than 30% of their

See HOLLEY

RESIDENCES page A2

Page A-2 | February 2-8, 2022 | michiganchronicle.com

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State Address

From page A-1

We're Still Fighting From page A-1 paved the way. As Detroit’s first Black fire marshal (and first Black person to hold the position in a major city), Robinson, who passed away on January 6, was a Cass Technical High School graduate who began his career in the Detroit Fire Department in the 1950s when there was mounting pressure to hire more Black firefighters. Robinson – the 16th Black person hired then– paved the way and then some.

Pushing Ahead The list could go on and on of Black Americans’ achievements locally and across the nation. While celebrating should be top of mind, this month is also a reflective and proactive period to stand up against ever-present injustices that we are still fighting.

There’s a lot left to be done. Just last month in January; the U.S. Senate prevented a set of voting rights bills from going through and blocked proposed changes to the chamber’s rules after seemingly endless weeks of confronting exactly how involved Congress should be to protect U.S. democracy, CNBC reported.

Republicans voted against the pending legislation that would boost early and mail-in voting and change Election Day a national

holiday, among other actions. According to the article, a motion to cease debate on the voting rights measure was lost in a 51-49 vote as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer switched his vote to “no” due to procedural causes.

Afterward, a highly anticipated vote on changing Senate rules lost by a 52-48 margin.

President Joe Biden insisted that the party agree to the proposed rules changes.

In a statement after the votes, Biden said he is “profoundly disappointed that the United States Senate has failed to stand up for our democracy.”

Sen. Raphael Warnock, a Georgia Democrat and one of three Black senators, stood firm against GOP arguments that a new federal voting law would hamper state power to run elections by commenting that states’ rights were cited in past justifications for discriminatory policy in some of the “darkest moments” for the country.

“Taking action to pass voting rights legislation is not a policy argument,” he said in the article. “It is about democracy itself.”

Several days before the vote, Vice President Kamala Harris addressed the topic of voting rights during a

Holley Residences From page A-1

income in rent. Rendering: Hamilton Anderson Architects The development, to be built at 9001 Woodward Ave., is slated to open in about a year, in January 2023.

In addition to apartments, it also will feature groundfloor retail that will serve not only residents but the entire neighborhood.

“I am honored that this building will bear my name because it stands as a symbol for what I have so long sought for my beloved fellow Detroiters and the residents in the North End,” Rev. Holley said. “I have dedicated my life to advocating for equality, empowerment and justice for all, as well as economic development projects that make the biggest difference in our community. I would like to thank MHT Housing, Mayor Duggan and all at the City for helping to make this difference in our neighborhood and for our seniors.”

The development is just the latest step in a lifetime of Rev. Holley creating economic empowerment for Detroiters and helping them meet their basic needs.

The Detroit civil rights icon has served as senior pastor of Historic Little Rock Baptist Church for more than 40 years. Having experienced racism and intimidation in his native South, he was met with similar conditions upon his arrival in the North. As a sophomore classmate of the Rev. Jesse Jackson in 1966 at Chicago Theological Seminary, Rev. Holley followed the lead of civil rights pioneers such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and groups such as the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and the NAACP. Soon he became actively involved in protests, demonstrations and sit-ins aimed at bringing about systemic change in the face of opposition, hatred and racism. He marched with King for better jobs, housing and education for Black people in Cicero, Illinois, in 1966, and met with burning cars, bottles and bricks. He also marched with King in 1968 in support of workers in Memphis, Tennessee, just two weeks before King was assassination.

This background helped shape and strengthen Rev. Holley’s commitment to justice and social change. He has sought to guarantee the rights and dignity of his people by meeting basic needs through founding a K-8 charter school, managing a Family Life center focused on family and youth recreation, providing job training and placement programs, low-income housing projects, men’s empowerment conferences, adult education and GED courses, and providing food and clothing for hungry Detroit families. He has fought for economic development and access, attracting more than $50 million in business ventures and partnerships creating hundreds of jobs within the community.

nearly 30-minute Zoom meeting on Friday, January 14, with the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA).

“It’s the beginning of a movement for voting rights,” she said, adding that she has a plan of action moving forward, so access to the ballot box is not obstructed. “I am bringing in folks to my office from every walk of life that will be affected. … We will continue to build a coalition around this issue. … We cannot be tired even though we are frustrated and yes disappointed and angered.”

From addressing police brutality with youth through the Detroit Police Athletic League (PAL), breaking barriers, and building bridges in the justice system with the federal trial of three former officers involved in George Floyd’s murder (which began on January 20) – progress, however steady, is being made, and Black people continue to be at the frontlines every step of the way with ever-present allies joining the fight, too.

Because as Dr. Martin Luther King so eloquently stated in 1963, we still cannot do it alone.

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny.”

“Outside of access to clean safe air and drinking water, there are few things more important than access to quality affordable housing,” Council President Sheffield said. “This project will be a welcome addition to District 5 and the portfolio of affordable housing available to our seniors — who are among our most vulnerable residents. Additionally, I applaud Rev. Holley, who has been a pillar in our city for nearly half a century and whose unwavering commitment to lifting up our community continues to inspire us all, which continues with this latest endeavor definitely following in the tradition of his life’s work.”

All units will have stainless steel appliances, Solid Surface counters and 5G Internet, and all residents will be able to enjoy an Enterprise Green Community with energy efficiencies, handicap accessibility and community room with full kitchen. The building is half a block from a bus stop, eight blocks from the QLINE, and also features plenty of parking.

“MHT Housing is proud to help Rev. Holley continue his mission of being a force for good in this community,” said T. Van Fox, president of MHT Housing. “We are committed to creating quality, affordable housing for all, and we could not have asked for a better partner than someone who has spent his life advocating for the same.”

The development was made possible, in part, through $1.8 million in HOME funding administered by the City of Detroit’s Housing & Revitalization Department.

“The Holley Residences address a key need in our city for quality, senior affordable housing,” said Julie Schneider, director of HRD. “Our department is committed to ensuring that development in our city creates equity and opportunity and that our city’s neighborhoods are welcoming, inclusive places for all. We look forward to continuing to fully support all developers who share that mission with us.”

Added Sandra Henriquez, CEO of the Detroit Housing Commission: “The quality of one’s housing should not depend on how much it costs. The DHC is proud to partner with Rev. Holley and MHT Housing to make these project-based vouchers available to seniors and guarantee they will have a home they can afford for decades to come.”

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority contributed a $1.39 million award in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) and also provided a construction loan and mortgage on the property.

“MSHDA and the Whitmer administration are committed to helping ensure every resident of this state has access to safe, quality, affordable housing,” said Gary Heidel, acting director of MSHDA. “Having a place like that to call home, especially for Michigan seniors, leads to more equitable and thriving communities.”

get ahead deserve to keep more of their hard-earned dollars. As part of the MI New Economy plan, I set an ambitious goal of lifting 100,000 working families out of poverty.

Delivering on this tax cut for working families will pull over 22,000 Michiganders out of working poverty and make significant progress towards that goal while raising incomes for 730,000 workers and benefitting nearly one million kids—nearly half the kids in Michigan.

This refund for working families is a game-changer for so many Michiganders, and I know we can work together to get this done.”

“As policymakers look for productive, proven solutions to address the financial challenges facing Michigan workers and families, improving the state EITC should be near the top of the list,” said Monique Stanton, president and CEO of the Michigan League for Public Policy. “Increasing the Michigan EITC will directly help nearly 750,000 households make ends meet while getting spent at local businesses on immediate expenses like groceries, clothing and school supplies for kids, car repairs and more.

This one-two punch of economic impact bumps up everyone’s bottom line and benefits every corner of the state.”

Nearly one million kids—almost half of the kids in Michigan—would benefit from raising the EITC. It means new backpacks, warmer coats and more hot meals.

Rations and Retirement Whitmer also proposed actions to lower the cost of insulin in her State of the State address. Attorney General Dana Nessel is in court looking to launch an investigation into one of the three largest manufacturers of insulin in the U.S. and in the legislature, there are bipartisan bills awaiting action that would, among other things, cap the cost of insulin at $50 a month.

“Nearly a million Michiganders need insulin to survive and for too long, drug companies have been skyrocketing prices,” said Whitmer. “I support Attorney General Nessel’s efforts to use the Michigan Consumer Protection Act to put Michiganders first by investigating the role drug companies play in raising prices. I also look forward to working with the legislature to cap the cost of insulin. Too many Michiganders are forced to ration insulin or forgo it, putting their lives at risk.”

“The average out-ofpocket cost of a single vial of insulin is nearing $100,” Nessel said.

“No Michigander should have to face that kind of cost for life-saving medicine. While drug companies profit off of people’s health, they also benefit from a current market in which they control the pricing. Enough is

enough. ... That is why this action will also pursue reconsideration of the rulings in Smith and Liss.”

“The cost of insulin is simply too high for far too many Michiganders,” said Gloria Padilla-Carlson, a retired Physician’s Assistant in Kalamazoo County. “Folks are too often forced to forgo insulin or ration it, which is detrimental to their health and can put their lives at risk.”

Whitmer also proposed a repeal of the retirement tax in her address, which would save half a million households $1,000 a year.

“Repealing the retirement tax will put Michiganders first and save half a million households $1,000 a year,” said Whitmer. “Michiganders who have worked hard, played by the rules and budgeted for their whole lives should be able to retire and keep all of their hardearned dollars. Putting money back in the pockets of retirees will help them afford the essentials from prescriptions, rent, utilities, car payments to gifts for their grandkids.”

“Repealing the retirement tax is long overdue.

Putting money back into the pockets of our retirees is welcomed news and removes a tax burden, plus allows Michiganders who worked hard for their money to have more discretionary income to spend on their medication and other needs,” said N. Charles Anderson, President/CEO of the Detroit Urban League.

When it comes to the roads, Whitmer said that in 2021, she reinstated the prevailing wage for state construction contracts.

“That means we will get the best-trained workforce and the best value for our tax dollars,” she said, adding that the state’s infrastructure— from roads to lead pipes to high-speed internet— is largely in the state that it is in due to decades of neglect and underfunding. “That’s why we’re fixing our roads and bridges with the right mix and materials, so they stay fixed. And we’re creating good-paying, skilled trades jobs along the way—the kind you can raise a family on, with solid benefits and a secure retirement.”

Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter said in an email that he applauds Whitmer for putting Michigan families first.

“The forward-looking proposals outlined by Gov. Whitmer during her State of the State address will bring welcome relief to Michigan seniors and families who still are dealing with a virus that has taken such a toll on our nation and state,” said Coulter. “Her bipartisan work with the legislature is paying dividends in areas most important to our residents, including education and training, jobs, environmental sustainability, infrastructure and wellness.”

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| February 2-8, 2022

COMMENTARY

Roots.

michiganchronicle.com

The Importance of Your Vote for Judicial Candidates in District Courts It is uncontroverted that Judges should reflect the citizens in their communities, its values, and cultural idiosyncrasies. This in turn will enhance and preserve the impartiality, fairness, and competency role of the bench in rendering decisions and addressing the issues of the Parties seeking resolutions before the court.

For purposes of this discussion, I will focus on the district level (“the People’s Court”) because generally that’s where most people will have initial contact with the judicial system and bring forth matters seeking resolution.

Encourage and Evaluate It is equally important for residents to encourage qualified attorneys that reside in the community in which they practice in support of judicial office. Evaluate the potential judicial candidate on their experience, civic involvement, legal reputation, and personal temperament. Also, invite and introduce the potential judicial candidate to your respective social organizations and settings to get a closer perspective about the judicial candidate’s ideals.

II. Contribute Talents and Influence.

Deliberately leverage the full weight and influence of your social, personal and professional networks in getting the judicial candidate elected. Make the effort to support your candidate by contributing time to ensuring their presence is known beyond the legal community and into the community at large.

Volunteer to canvass, phone bank, or do door knocks with the judicial candidate as they traverse through the neighborhoods. Increase visibility of the judicial candidate by sharing information on social media.

Campaign Contributions It cannot be stated enough, a judicial campaign can be incredibly expensive. To achieve the goal of having a representative judge at the district court, give $5, $10, or $15…micro donations can be just as powerful as larger contributions.

The community’s voice and its choice are heard loudest through the strength and application of its dollars.

Vote, Vote, Vote Although it may seem obvious, participate, and Vote!

Let your choice of a candidate be known by saying it on the ballot.

In some cases, judicial candidates are listed at the bottom or on the back of a ballot. Therefore, carefully examine the entire ballot to ensure that you have completed the judicial candidate portion.

Cultural background is one of the tools that a judicial officer employs in its analysis and decisions. It reinforces equitable application of the law by incorporating cultural perspective to their decisions. When individuals are called to face the court for criminal matters, when court intervention is sought for eviction or domestic resolutions or when city ordinances must be applied to the maintenance and order of everyday citizenry, it’s important that a judge from the community and of the community is present on the bench.

Ponce D. Clay is a member of Wolverine Bar Association and the Founder and Managing Attorney at Clay Law PLC; a general practice law firm.

He is a graduate of Morehouse College and obtained his Juris Doctorate from the University of Detroit Mercy Law School. A retired Naval Officer, Ponce served over 20 years in various positions of leadership throughout the world. Ponce is a Contributor for the Institute of Continuing Legal Education and adjunct faculty for the Trial Skills Course at the WMU-Cooley Law School.

The Complexities of Grief

By Megan Kirk For more than two years, the world has felt the pressures of loss and dealt with the harsh reality that grief brings. While grief looks differently for everyone, it is an emotion that has been fueled with force in recent months. At a time when mental health is being widely discussed, topics surrounding grief have become a hot button issue as individuals look for ways to cope with sadness and process the events of the last several years.

The coronavirus has claimed more than 800,000 lives in the United States and the numbers continue to increase. In the wake of the virus, individuals have lost jobs, financial security and simple freedoms triggering a domino effect of emotions where grief and sadness take center stage. Moreover, the holidays seem to weigh heavier with empty seats for this year’s festivities.

“The families who has [sic] suffered the loss, begin to remember how significant their role was when he or she was alive and at the moment the family feels the void and how holidays will forever be changed because of the absence,” says therapist Dr. Samone R. Marion, owner and operator of Marion’s Counseling Services.

No matter the calendar month, thoughts and feelings around grief persist. While grief has always been a tough road to navigate, it can be triggered by more than the death of a loved one.

“I like the broader definition of grief which is ‘a reaction to any form of loss.’ The reason why I like to use that definition is because it allows for us to emcompass all

types of loss. When you think about grief, you think about the loss of a loved one, but when we think about it, especially around holidays, you may have lost a job, you may have lost a pet or loss of a relationship,” says Helena Kelly, a social worker and CEO of Decisions Counseling and Consulting Services. “When we think about grief in that broader context, we get to fold more things in.”

Masked by feelings of control, irritability, over or under eating and other characteristics, the emotional fallout from grief is a ripple effect that can be felt in several areas of life.

“Grief looks differently for everyone. There are several stages of an individual’s spiral. I find individuals struggle with the emotional turbulence of the initial disbelief of death. ‘Why did this happen?’

Many ask themselves ‘could this have been avoided? Could I have done more for the loved one who died?’ Mentally we try to process the abrupt departure and become angry, Individuals question their spiritual belief system asking why.

Seemingly, many struggle back and forth trying to gain an understanding of the departure,” says therapist Dr. Samone R. Marion.

As there are several layers to processing grief, there are also different types of grief and how it presents itself. Traumatic grief, defined as a severe form of separation distress that has resulted from a sudden loss. Not to be confused with the traditional process of grief, traumatic grief can last longer and create aftershocks for the mind and body causing symptoms similar to PTSD. Traumatic grief is chronic and sufferers may become invested

in the deceased with details surrounding a loved one’s death as a way to cope.

“We have to talk about traumatic grief because it’s a little different from normal grief and we get caught up in the details and that’s where the trauma comes in,” says Kelly. “We just get caught up in the details of how they transitioned or passed and it’s almost like you get suspended development in your grieving process.”

In the Black community, conversations around grief are not often had. Despite millennials making the push to self-healing and discovery through therapy, it remains a taboo subject. Men are told not to cry and young women are taught that strength is represented in endurance. Distorted ideals around grief in therapy continue to manifest themselves differently between the sexes.

“Women are more expressive, they are more willing to talk about the loss and how important he or she was to them. Women are more willing to reach out to their ministers, mental health professionals and close family support,” says Dr. Marion. “Men are more closed, they are by design fixers and try dealing with the loss on their own. In many cases, men see themselves as strong and must hold the family together and fail to validate their hurt by the loss. Encouraging men to go and talk to someone to express their loss it’s the healthy thing to do.”

Grief is a serious subject and should be handled with care. Those looking to seek counseling after experiencing loss are encouraged to find a mental health professional that best fits their needs.

Democratic Lawmakers Propose a Mayor Coleman A. Young Statue for Capitol Hill

By Sherri Kolade Former Detroit Mayor Coleman A. Young was iconic as Detroit’s first Black mayor. His legacy is present throughout the city, inspiring local leaders to propose erecting a statue in his honor on Capitol Hill.

Local political leaders and lawmakers, including Sen. Adam Hollier (D-Detroit) and Detroit City Councilman AtLarge Coleman Young II (among other political leaders), spoke of Young’s great works during a morning press conference at the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center.

Hollier, among others, spoke on the plans for introducing a resolution at the State Senate to remove the Lewis Cass statue located in National Statuary Hall Collection in Lansing and replace it with Young, who was the city’s mayor for 20 years.

Local political leaders in favor of a statue of former Mayor Coleman A. Young show their support during a Monday, January 31 press conference at the Coleman A. Young building. Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Crenshaw

“We know that representation matters. Coleman Young exemplified black and Detroit excellence,” said Hollier. “Young was a believer in equality and stopping segregation. His positive impact on the City of Detroit and history are worthy of being honored in the U.S. Capitol.”

The statue would honor Young’s im-

portant achievements in the restoration of the city of Detroit while championing the civil rights of Detroiters.

“The greatest thing a man can do with his life is to have it out last him.

My father was the first African American mayor of Detroit and the longest serving in the city’s history,” Young said.

“He set a golden standard that we all try to live up to. To have a statue of him among other great leaders of our country immortalized in Washington, D.C. is humbling.”

Coleman A. Young was an elected member of the Michigan Constitutional Convention from 1961 to 1962 and helped lead an effort to create the Michigan Civil Rights Commission and the Michigan Department of Civil Rights. He was a member of the Michigan Senate from 1965 - 1973 and was Detroit’s first Black mayor, serving from 1974 -1994.

Young fought to amplify the voice of Detroiters and demanded that Detroit receive the proper recognition as the centerpiece for the Michigan economy. He died in 1997 and age 79.

The United States Congress authorized the National Statuary Hall Collection in 1864 to allow each state to pro-

See STATUE page A-4

Page A-4 | February 2-8, 2022 | michiganchronicle.com

Youth Bear the Brunt of Trauma and Leaders Are Speaking Out

This Week In

By Sherri Kolade

By Megan Kirk

Trauma is a beast.

Defined as a “deeply distressing or disturbing experience” or even a physical injury, trauma can manifest itself in ways that show up most unexpectedly.

In school or even in the workplace, trauma can be insidious and appear when one least expects it. For children and young people, it can be especially hard to understand how their own trauma impacts them as the rational part of a teen’s brain isn’t fully developed and won’t be until age 25.

With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing children and parents to stay home and shelter in place last year (with some still working and schooling from home) it can be difficult to escape the abuse that comes from within. And this issue has no color.

For children and young people in need of mental health services, fortunately, there is help with an increase in hiring mental health professionals around the state.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer recently announced that schools are recruiting and in the process of hiring 560 more school psychologists, school social workers, school counselors and school nurses with the help of funding from the FY 22 State School Aid Act. “The pandemic reminded us that school-based mental and physical health professionals are not luxuries.

Healthy students—physically, mentally, and social-emotionally—are better learners,” Whitmer stated in a press release. “Having skilled professionals in school buildings helps our kids get the support they need so they can thrive in the classroom and beyond.”

“Our children require academic, social-emotional, and physical supports, both in and out of schools,” said State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice.

“School communities across the state are appreciative of this critical new FY 22 budget investment negotiated between the governor and the state legislature. This $240 million begins the requisite school support for our children’s mental health and physical needs.”

“The health and well-being of Michigan’s students continue to be a top priority for both MASA and our members,” said Dr. Tina Kerr, Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Superintendents & Administrators (MASA). “Now, more than ever, our students need access to these services, and there’s no better place than in our schools to provide them. We are very pleased to see this important funding going to districts across the state so they can hire the key staff needed to support our students.”

Delivering for Students In the FY 22 budget, Governor Whitmer and the Michigan Legislature worked together to appropriate $240

Statue

million to increase the number of school-based professionals supporting students’ mental and physical health.

To date, 210 school districts have applied for grant funding to hire 562 staff members including 60 school psychologists, 226 school social workers, 146 school counselors and 130 school nurses. Grant funds help districts hire staff and gradually transition from fully funding the position with state funds in year 1 to funding the position with local funds in year 4.

De’Nisha “Dinah” Beasley (who holds a Double Master’s Degree in Social Work and Theological Studies) has over 14 years of experience serving in mental health, social work and education arenas as a restorative healing specialist in inner-city communities and is the executive director for a non-profit organization focused on saving children from child sexual exploitation.

Beasley, the founder of the Center for Restorative Services and Solutions (The CRSS) where she utilizes her knowledge of trauma-informed and restorative practices to help individuals heal from trauma, restore relationships, and build healthy communities, told the Michigan Chronicle that it comes to seeing children handling trauma by acting out at school and elsewhere.

“Behavior and academics are all related to trauma,” Beasley said adding that it is important when handling trauma to think of helping young people as a community effort. “When you use a trauma-informed approach you find kids who experienced trauma [which] impacts every aspect of their life. It impacts their interpersonal relationship, their ability to sit in a classroom for an extended amount of time, how they interact with family and siblings.”

Beasley said, however, that there is hope.

“Kids can heal from trauma and recover and have success stories -- all of this is possible,” Beasley said.

For more information on Beasley’s work visit https://www.thecrss.org/.

Detroit resident and mental health advocate E’yandra Otis agrees. He told the Michigan Chronicle that it’s important for children to see that they have a support system who believes them when they say that someone abused them – even if it’s from their own family.

depth about his thoughts on the proposed statue.

An image of former President Gerald Ford is another statue at the Capitol.

Young II added that he now understands what he was doing as an adult.

Hollier doesn’t want Cass to represent Michigan in Statuary Hall, where two figures represent each state. He said he has the support of all Democrats in the state Senate to choose instead Young, who was Detroit mayor for 20 years. He died in 1997.

“That was the cost of his legacy,” Young said. “That is the cost of building this great metropolis.”

Young added that his father “sacrificed his life” for the city and more.

While standing under an oversized picture of Young at the podium, Young II spoke candidly to the press more in-

“So, we honor this,” he said of the statue. “It’s a representation of sacrifice.

This means more to me than political greatness.”

Healthy Weight

along with self-reflection about what is and isn’t working. Some things to track include:

From page A-3

ther away or taking the stairs. Think of it as a form of self-care, and as something with more multifaceted benefits than dieting. Exercise not only helps to burn calories, but the muscles built during activity help burn even more energy when at rest, making it easier to prevent weight regain. Before starting any new exercise regimen, individuals should consult their primary care provider.

• Keep a health journal: A diary can be helpful in keeping a healthy weight.

It can be a record of healthy actions

February 2 - On this day in Black history, inventor Alfred L. Cralle created the

ice cream scooper in 1897 at just 30-years-old. Originally called the Ice Cream Mold and Disher, Cralle never received recognition or payment for his invention. However, the tool became widespread and he became the first African-American in Pittsburg to receive a patent. Later, he became a well-known businessman and civil rights leader.

February 3 - Autherine J. Lucy became the first Black student to attend the University of Alabama. Though she would be expelled three days later after white mobs chase her through the school, she would earn a master’s degree from the school more than 30 years later. After speaking to a history class at the University of Alabama, students petitioned for her to be able to return to the school. In 1988, U of A repelled Lucy’s expulsion. She and her daughter graduated from the university together. Today, she is 92-years-old.

February 4 - Super Bowl XLI (41) between the Indianapolis Colts and the Chica-

go Bears led to an iconic win for The Colts head coach. Tony Dungy becomes the first African American head coach to win the Super Bowl. Since the historic win in 2007, Dungy he won several awards including the 2010 Indianapolis Colts Ring of Honor and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Ring of Honor in 2018. The Michigan native now works as a sports reporter for NBC’s Football Night in America.

February 5 - Before he was elected President of the United States, Barack Obama became the first African American named president of the Harvard Law Review in 1990. A Columbia University graduate and Harvard University law student, Obama became Harvard Law Review president at just 28-years-old. Breaking barriers, former President Obama opened the door for Harvard Law Review to elect its first African American woman, ImeIme Umana, as president.

Not just celebrated in America, Ireland becomes one of the more recent countries to celebrate Black History Month and the contributions made by those of African descent. With just about 12 percent of its population considered Black, Black History Month in Ireland was initiated in 2010, but officially honored in 2014. Unlike America and Canada who celebrate the holiday all February, Ireland has taken the approach of the United Kingdom and appointed October as the official month for celebrations.

“[We] need to take a bigger look at mental health, period,” Otis told the Michigan Chronicle. “A society cannot move forward if we have so many people have trauma not addressed, not spoken about. ... You have to make victims feel safe to share their stories.”

The Michigan Legislature, under Republican control, must approve any change, Hollier said during the press conference.

vide two statues of notable citizens for permanent display in the United States Capitol.

February 1 - In 1960, four Black students from North Carolina A&T College, Joseph McNeil, Franklin McCain, Ezell Blair Jr. and David Richmond, staged a sit-in and helped spark the movement that led to student-led protests in 55 cities across 13 states. Known as the Greensboro Four, the students sat down at a “whites-only” lunch counter asking for service. The restaurant’s refusal led to a peaceful and silent protest.

This was the catalyst that led to the integration of lunch counters.

The application is still open, and all districts are eligible to apply. Districts can review frequently asked questions and submit their application by visiting Michigan.gov/MDE. Districts must hire staff by March 1, 2022, to qualify.

“As proud, as humble, as honored as I am to see my father as a statue …

I’m also filled with sadness today. Not because of him being honored, but because as his son I miss him,” Young II said, adding that while he grew up with a present and loving father, being raised by him wasn’t easy. “There were times as a kid I didn’t understand what (he was) doing.”

From page A-3

Black History

Honoring leaders giving back to their communities During Black History Month, AARP recognizes leaders taking action to give back and help build up their communities.

We serve the needs of others for a common cause and together we make that cause successful. There is no greater gift on earth than giving back to others.

AARP believes the efforts of one person can truly make an impact. But when our efforts drive change for the greater good, we thrive together.

• Daily exercise and activities • Fruits and vegetables • Water intake • Self-care • Non-scale victories Maintaining a healthy weight is achievable. Try incorporating small, conscious actions into everyday activities to start, and see how they pay off.

Shanthi Appelö is a registered dietitian and health and wellness spokesperson at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. For more health tips and information, visit AHealthierMichigan. org.

Get your weekly home delivery of the

Michigan Chronicle Subscribe Today!

Call (313) 963-8100

To learn more about this community leader and their journey, visit https://aarpmi.org/BLMLocalLeader

Dr. Surae Eaton Retired Physician / AARP Volunteer Lansing, MI

A5

| February 2-8, 2022

Money.

michiganchronicle.com

Jefferson East, Inc Receives Grant To Provide Flooding Support to Residents Study finds more than 4,000 East Jefferson homes impacted

by June 2021 flooding Jefferson East, Inc. (JEI) has received a $250,000 grant from the A.A. Van Elslander Foundation to continue its mission of preserving and stabilizing homeownership in the East Jefferson corridor. A survey conducted by JEI indicates that more than 4,000 homes within the Jefferson-Chalmers neighborhood and adjacent neighborhoods received between one and eight feet of water in their basements during last year’s catastrophic rainfall.

The grant will allow JEI to assist flooding victims with repairing and elevating furnaces that were damaged during the flooding event. To date, JEI has installed two green storm water parking lots that remove more than $800,000 gallons of stormwater each year and has been working with the City of Detroit to identify long-term solutions to minimize flooding moving forward.

“Unapologetically Black” Michigan Chronicle’s 2021 Men of Excellence Celebration

The A.A. Van Elslander Foundation grant will allow JEI to:

By Sherri Kolade

• Repair, replace and elevate furnaces

Each year, the Michigan Chronicle takes immeasurable pride in recognizing African American men in the community who inspire others through their visionary work in Detroit and beyond across all facets of the professional spectrum.

• Link affected residents into other supports and resources • Counsel homeowners and help develop a long-term plan to further improve and stabilize their homes

The 2021 Men of Excellence class was inducted this past Thursday at the 13th annual Men of Excellence Award ceremony in Detroit and honored local men who uplift others through their vision, leadership, notable achievements, and admirable interest in community service.

“With this grant from the A.A. Van Elslander Foundation, we have the ability to offer critical support to those in Detroit’s East Jefferson corridor and its surrounding neighborhoods,” said JEI CEO Josh Elling. “One of our major organizational goals at JEI is to preserve and stabilize homeownership.

With the support from the A.A. Van Elslander Foundation, we can help residents continue the long recovery from the June floods as well as get their heat back on during these cold days.”

JEI estimates there are more than 160 furnaces in need of repair in within Jefferson-Chalmers and other nearby neighborhood.

The price of a furnace repair and replacement can range from $1,000 to upwards of $9,000. JEI will work to align these flooding resiliency fixes with the mayor’s newly announced $30 million home repair fund, the 0% Home Repair Loan Program, State Emergency Assistance and other funds.

The ceremony recognizes men who exemplify integrity while setting the standard for professionalism and passion in their local community. This year’s event marks the in-return ceremony since COVID-19.

Hiram E. Jackson, publisher of Michigan Chronicle and chief executive officer of Real Times Media (RTM), said that the men were exemplary during the live event in Detroit.

“I feel the love for these 50 amazing

Hiram E. Jackson, Publisher, Michigan Chronicle & CEO, Real Times Media and brothers,” Jackson said, adding that he feels that he has the best job in the world Ray Curry, President, UAW. PHOTOS: Monica Morgan

of promoting positive Black culture and recognizing greatness, which doesn’t always happen even though well-deserved.

“The Michigan Chronicle is here to tell you we see you; we know what you been through.”

Five special awardees were recognized, including former Mayor Dave Bing, the O’Neil Swanson Lifetime Achievement Award recipient.

“Our father was always the first to help in a crisis,” said David Van Elslander, A.A. Van Elslander Foundation board member. “Following the unfortunate flooding events of last summer, with many residents facing this winter with no functional furnace or water heater, the Foundation saw a critical need.

We are honored to support JEI’s efforts to help families within the Jefferson East neighborhood by repairing or replacing these essential items.”

Jackson, inspired by Swanson’s leadership, said that the company named the Lifetime Achievement Award after him, knowing that whoever receives this award has created a lasting legacy. Their impact can still be seen and felt in the city today.

Terrence Hicks, managing principal at Metro Strategies, said that being an honoree was an honor that was a surprise.

“I feel extremely blessed,” Hicks said during videotaping for the Men of Excellence. “I didn’t see it coming.”

Coleman Young, II, a Detroit City Councilman, “feels blessed to be a part of a growing distinguished class of gentlemen recognized for their work.”

The flooding support efforts from the grant tie into JEI’s overall housing counselling and case management work, including the

See FLOODING

SUPPORT page A6

See MEN

Kirk Mayes, CEO, Forgotten Harvest & wife Tamika

By Megan Kirk

OF EXCELLENCE page A6

New Year, New Home

pare for the journey to homeownership can help buyers prepare for all necessary paperwork and unexpected costs. One aspect buyer should prepare for are closing costs. Closing costs consist of several fees paid to the mortgage lender for services rendered during the process. On average, closing cost can range from three to six percent of the cost of the home according to Rocket Mortgage. Potential buyers are not always prepared for closing costs and may cause a hiccup towards the end of the process.

Purchasing a home is one of the largest financial investments for anyone to make. For first time buyers, the stress of the process can settle in even before finding a forever home. As questions swirl about the process, realtors are available to help navigate the roads and bridge the gap between financial literacy and homebuying.

The rise in inflation caused in part by the pandemic is driving the cost of homes upward. As the cost of homes rise, finding an affordable home without compromising on amenities remains a top priority.

Recent studies conducted by CoreLogic show millennials are dominating the first-time buyers’ market. In 2020 and 2021, millennials accounted for 51 percent of all purchase applications. This, coupled with fewer homes available, is creating stiff competition for buyers.

“The state of the market is great.

Interest rates are still low com-

Danielle Dunham, realtor. pared to two years ago. Housing prices have [gone] up allowing sellers to get the most for their property. Housing Inventory is low, but buyers looking to buy this winter are having good luck with their offers,” said Danielle Dunham who has been recognized in 2021 as Detroit’s Favorite Realtor and Realtor of the Year.

Knowing how to financially pre-

“Buyers underestimate closing costs. It is separate from [the] down payment. Your closing cost is comprised of fees related to the origination and underwriting of a mortgage loan, taxes, insurance premiums, as well as title and record fees,” said Dunham.

Closing costs can be tricky as they vary from home to home. Location is one factor that will dictate the final costs of purchasing

See NEW

HOME page A6

Page A-6 | February 2-8, 2022 | michiganchronicle.com

New Home “I think most people think that it is the same across the board for any house at the same price point. Closing cost depends on other things besides price.

Taxes, lender fees, title work and insurance are rolled into your closing cost,” said Dunham. “For instance, a house in one city for $250,000 may have $2,000 in yearly taxes. A house in a different city for the same price may have $5,000 a year in taxes. The same thing with insurance.”

Credit history plays a major role in approvals and denials of mortgage applications as well as interest rates. This will also affect the type of loan available.

There are three standard loan avenues and each has its own requirements on credit scores. Conventional loans are best utilized by those with good to excellent credit scores. With qualifications set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, conventional loans are not offered by any government entities, but backed by private lenders. FHA loans are issued by the Federal Housing Administration and VA loans are provided to active military personnel and veterans through the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. Since the federal government backs these loan types, requirements vary from that of a conventional loan and allow for lower credit scores.

Though fees can quickly add up, first time buyers are at an advantage. There are many programs offered that will help to mitigate the cost of home buying.

“A decent score to start at is 620.

Some lenders start at 580, but those loans typically have higher interest rates,” said Dunham.

“First time buyers financial costs depend on what price point they are buying in. Costs that are typical with home buying are inspection and appraisal fees, which range from $300 to $500 for inspection and $500 to $600 for appraisal. Price depends on the square footage of the house,” said Dunham. “The great thing about being a first-time buyer is all the down payment assistance for people located in Michigan who are purchasing a home. This can drastically cut the cost

The 2022 housing market is expected to heat up as the year rolls along. For those interested in throwing their hat into the ring in the new year, saving and working towards your financial goal will help in the long run.

From page A-5

a home. Closing costs can be paid out of pocket in one lump sum or included into the loan, should the lender permit.

However, this will cause interest to be applied to the closing costs.

Men of Excellence

From page A-5

Men of Excellence Vanguard Awardees include Kirk Mayes, Forgotten Harvest CEO, Gerald Johnson, executive vice president of Global Manufacturing and Sustainability at General Motors, Bishop John Drew Sheard, chief prelate, and chief apostle of the Church of God in Christ.

Mayes charged his fellow honorees with leaning into each other and connecting by building relationships and “fix problems ailing our people.”

and excellent,” he said of drawing out greatness from others.

The Man of the Year Award was given to Ray Curry, United Auto Workers (UAW) president.

Curry, a tireless supporter of civil and human rights, joined the UAW in 1992 (later being elected president in 2021) and held numerous positions before taking the top position. The North Carolina native and military veteran is known for his Gerald Johnson, Execu- servant leadership roles tive Vice President, Global and for being instrumental in implementing broad Manufacturing and Sus- financial ethics reforms.

He added that the tainability, General Motors “I stand on the shoulsame way other great ders of a woman,” Curry said of being people inspired the Men of Excellence raised by a single parent who raised before them, others coming after them him to be prepared for the next step in would be motivated by their works, and life. “I congratulate the 50 Men of Excelit’s their job to lead them toward a better lence. … You’re inspiring someone... to path. achieve.”

“Go tell somebody what it took to Congratulations, 2021 Men of Excelbe excellent; what it took to be Black lence!

Flooding Support From page A-5 H.O.M.E (Housing & Opportunity Matter to Everyone) program. JEI’s H.O.M.E. program has achieved significant results over the last five years. The organization remains among the highest performing intake partners for the home repair loan program in partnership with LISC and the City of Detroit. This includes having the second largest loan approval rates out of 14 intake partner agencies and closing over one-and-a-

quarter-million dollars in funded home repair loans. Additionally, the program has administered more than $1.8 million in home repair grants and loans, saved homeowners more than $50,000 in annual property tax costs through exemptions, and provided more than 4,500 homeowners and renters with range of housing support services.

If you are in need of housing or flooding support, please contact JEI’s Neighborhood Resource Hub by calling (313) 314-6415. To learn more about Jefferson East, Inc., please visit www.jeffersoneast.org/.

of homeownership in half.”

“I am a firm believer of setting aside money automatically each paycheck or month towards your goal,” said Dunham. “It is better to have more than enough than not enough money.”

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michiganchronicle.com | February 2-8, 2022 | Page A-7

Michigan Chronicle

111 Huntington

Students Wired for Achievement and Greatness

SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS

IN SCHOLARSHIPS FOR DETROIT STUDENTS

Huntington Bank & the Michigan Chronicle present the seventh annual Students Wired for Achievement and Greatness Scholarship Awards.

Talmage Turner 2021 $25,000 Top S.W.A.G. Scholarship Recipient

Alayna Jones 2021 S.W.A.G. Scholarship Recipient

Page A-8 | February 2-8, 2022 | michiganchronicle.com

City ity.. Life ife.. Style.

B1 | February 2-8, 2022

Where City Meets Life and Life Meets Style

michiganchronicle.com

The Best Love Is Self-Love

By Miss AJ Williams There is a saying that you cannot give from an empty cup. Often, it’s used in times when you have given too much of yourself to others and sacrificed so much of yourself caring for others that there is no room to care for you. That is very true in every relationship, especially in love. We often look for love in the wrong places, and from the wrong people, in general. I like to call that kind of love “Swiss Cheese love.”

People float from relationships, friendships, and even jobs trying to find validation and love while ignoring the one person who should be able to fill you emotionally. That person is you.

Expecting your mate, your job, or even your child to be emotionally responsible for you is not only unfair to them Miss AJ Williams but unfair to you, too. You’re missing out on the best gift of all, selflove. When you are full of self-love, you have love to give others from a place of emotional stability and not from desperation and the need for love.

When you combine the Trinity of Self, you come out on the other side whole and complete. You are self-possessed and in love with the most important person in your life. YOU! Remember, what’s in your cup is for you, and the overflow is for everyone else.

Erich Fromm pointed out that love is an art form that takes dedication and practice, not something you win or fail.

Instead, being able to love is a faculty to be developed. It entails effort and begins with learning to love yourself.

Self-Love In Practice To achieve self-care and ultimately self-love, you must practice them.

Even when you love yourself, you can sometimes let in lower vibrations of self-doubt, self-judgment, and fear. That is why practicing self-love is crucial in keeping your ‘self-love’ tank full. Here are some steps: • Combat Negative Self-Talk: Some people may think that affirmations are corny. I know for a long time I did. However, when you’ve been programmed for decades in certain fears and negative self-concepts, you have to practice combating the negative self-talk voices in your head and replace them with affirmations and belief in yourself. The beauty of affirmations is they don’t have to be super deep or spiritual, and they can change based upon what you need to combat on a given day.

For example, if you are struggling with a negative self-body image, practice gratitude through mindfulness about something you love on your body or a powerful statement about yourself to elevate your thoughts and vibrate higher instead of feeding into the negative. I affirm that I am beautiful inside and out because the Universe created me, and I am exactly who I am meant to be.

• The Beauty Of Yes and No: When you function from a full cup of self-love, you can say yes and no without an emotional need for validation or fear.

You can say yes to accepting an award or heading up a new project because you’re whole, complete, and assured.

Black Films Thrive at Sundance Film Festival 2022

At the last minute, due to Omicron concerns, the 2022 Sundance Film Festival morphed from an in-person and virtual event to a purely digital experience. Thanks to streaming, Black filmmakers and Black films were on center stage all over the world. Check them out…

Aftershock (***) According to WHO, the U.S. ranks 60th on the list of countries with the lowest maternal mortality ratio. The Population Reference Bureau cites, “Black women are three times more likely to die in pregnancy postpartum than white women.” Directors Paula Eiselt and Tonya Lewis Lee’s illuminating documentary breaks down the contributing factors and possible solutions for maternal mortality in the aftermath of two specific women’s deaths.

Shamony Gibson and Amber Rose Isaac both died after labor and a grassroots movement for birth justice and equity, in their honor, is heroically launched by Omari Maynard and Bruce McIntyre, the fathers of their children. The courageous dads, like shamans, guide you through the perils and needs for a change in obstetric care from pregnancy to births, to aftercare.

Systemic issues (hospitals profit more from risky, fastbuck C-Sections than slow vaginal births), disparities, root causes and communication errors are revealed. Notably a job once done by black slave midwives is now the domain of white male OB-GYNs. Watching the consciousness-raising support groups of widowed Black men is as inspiring as a thousand Million Man Marches. Very solid doc filmmaking instincts reflect an empowering movement born from painful experiences. The revolution in pre- and postnatal care for Black women will be Instagrammed, Twitted, Facebooked...

Descendant (***1/2) A yearning for a definitive history is the driving force of this heart-warming doc. The Cotilda schooner was the last American slave ship to bring Africans to the U.S. The imprisoned captives from Benin arrived in Mobile Alabama in 1860. The Black descendants of that ship settled in Africatown, which has since been parceled away by public domain highway projects, a lumber yard and other businesses. Still the proud residents keep their history alive, orally, passing on info, names and dates to future generations who become historians and record keepers.

Director Margaret Brown captures the spiritual experienc-

See SELF LOVE Page B-2

es of these chosen Alabamians. She films their interviews just as a white journalist and white owner of a mechanic’s shop decide to look for the ship that was burned by its owner Timothy Meaher and hidden in neighboring swamps.

Brown’s chronicling of this hunt and what it means to the heirs of the Cotilda’s last passengers is never obtrusive.

Her style is reminiscent of the grassroots doc Something in the Water. Culture, history, reckoning and reparations all add a richness that makes the film emotionally compelling.

Grainy footage of the ship’s last survivor Cudjo Lewis, as filmed by author Zora Neale Hurston in the 1930s, is as astounding to see as an heir of Meaher’s showing up for a ship discovery ceremony. These stalwart descendants of slavery save their culture and history. Their tenacity and courage prevail in a very illuminating way.

jeen-yuhs: A Kanye Trilogy (***) Ten minutes into this lively documentation of 21-year-old Kanye West the unsettling contrasts between this hopeful, humble adolescent and his embittered and inflated persona these days is quite jarring. Chicago public access TV host Coodie chronicled West’s pilgrimage from Chicago to New York in the late ‘90s as he tried to transition from music producer to superstar rapper.

Fuzzy-looking footage reveals all. Consider Coodie’s homage to be more like a home movie/travelogue with famous people (Damon Dash, Pharrell) than a typical doc. No video tricks. No gimmicks. No mounds of news footage, interviews etc. Just largely an unfiltered look at West fighting for a record deal at hop-hop’s holy grail, Roc-A-Fella Records.

The most touching scenes are West and his wise, nurturing schoolteacher mother who wants him to remain humble: “You can stand on the ground with your head in the air at the same time.” The most awkward scenes are watching Jay-Z, RR’s CEO, keep Kanye at bay: he wants the milk (West’s “jeen-yuhs” producing) but not the cow (Kanye as a rapper).

The fly-on-the-wall filmmaking lets you cavort with family, friends, adversaries, mentors and hangers-on. Discovering West’s middle-class background explains his early brand of rap and its often-spiritual elements, which are evidenced in the making of his classic hit “Jesus Walks.” West, with no gangsta cred whatsoever, was on a mission: “I’m gonna bridge the gap to hip-hop.” And he did, with a verve and naiveté that was reflected on his smiling face. Luckily, Coodie documented the good old days, or no one would believe the 1990’s West and the 2022 Ye were the same people.

Nanny (**1/2) African immigrant stories often possess an innate appeal.

In this instance, Senegalese writer/director Nikyatu Jusu’s

See SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL Page B-2

Former Divorce Court Judge Releases Book for Single Women

By Megan Kirk

“Sis, Don’t Settle: How to Stay Smart in Matters of the Heart” book cover (photo from Amazon).

In 2014, Judge Faith Jenkins took the bench on TV’s “Divorce Court.” In her role, she has listened to the plight of couples and helped to facilitate their reconciliation or their subsequent separations. Now, the judge is adding author to her résumé with the release of her book “Sis, Don’t Settle: How to Stay Smart in Matters of the Heart.” Taking years of personal experience coupled with that of her time in the courtroom, the judge is helping women to navigate love without forfeiting their happiness.

Joining the ranks of other relationship books, Judge Jenkins’ debut in the literary world comes just a short time after marrying singer Kenny Lattimore in 2020. After a whirlwind romance, the two were engaged after just six months of dating. Though love may be easy, the dating road can be bumpy.

Released in November 2021, the book shares dating tips as well as inspiration from the Judge, who, before marriage, was on the dating scene. At 35, she had not yet found the love of her life. Despite this, she was adamant on not settling for the wrong man.

“To the women who choose to believe in the highest, grandest vision of love, this book is for you,” said Jenkins on her book’s dedication page.

Unlike most books that teach women how to land the perfect man, “Sis, Don’t Settle” sheds light on true issues women face while dating. While some relationship books are penned by men with a female audience base, this book was created to show women dating faux pas in the eyes of a fellow woman. “’Sis, Don’t Settle’ is for women not interested in metamorphosing into fishermen trying to catch a man or holding

a player captive in a short-lived relationship,” wrote Jenkins in the book.

The book also hits on several layers of womanhood. From the serial daters to the entrepreneurs and every woman in between, each chapter is filled with content applicable to daters across the spectrum. The book also shares tips for divorcées, singles and those who have found themselves in an entanglement.

During an extensive interview with “The Breakfast Club” with hosts DJ Envy, Angela Yee and Charlamagne tha God, Jenkins detailed her inspiration for the book as well as the pressures single women face when they have reached a certain age and remain unwed.

“If you’re not careful, you can really internalize that and make you feel like somehow you’re lacking. Or, somehow,

See FAITH JENKINS Page B-2

Page B-2 | February 2-8, 2022 | michiganchronicle.com

Sundance Film Festival From page B-1

odd mixture of horror, thriller, romance and muddled family drama has the opposite effect. Aisha (Anna Diop), a twentysomething from Senegal, leaves her young son behind to find work in New York.

A white couple (Michelle Monaghan and Morgan Spector) hires her to tend to their young daughter Rose (Rose Decker). The wealthy spouses are lax with pay, Aisha loses communication with her son and weird visions of a boy in rain haunt her.

Supernatural aspects and cryptic images have no context for 90 minutes of this 97-minute motion picture. Regardless of the iffy narrative choices, Jusu and cinematographer Rina Yang make a very attractive film that displays their excellent taste in staging, composition, angles, lighting, etc. Scenes look fresh and modern. The director also excels at depicting a love story between Aisha and an understanding doorman (Sinqua Walls, American Soul). Jusu shows great promise as a director.

Even a genre-messy film can’t hide her talent.

Keeping You Informed Away or at Home.

We Need to Talk About Bill Cosby (***) Really?! Is there some explosive secret about the shamed comedian that has yet to be revealed? Stand-up comic turned documentarian W. Kamau Bell thinks so. To make his case, he assembles an exhaustive array of talking heads (Roland Martin), comedians (Hannibal Buress), rape crisis counselors and even a journalist who investigates date rape drugs. Cosby’s well-publicized fall from ’60s TV pioneer (I, Spy), to 1980s/’90s quintessential all-American boob tube daddy (The Cosby Show), to convicted, imprisoned felon is meticulously charted. Victim after victim exposes his pattern of drugging, assaults and rapes. The black community’s initial ambivalent feelings are pondered. His hypocritical jabs at young black men while he’s molesting women are documented too.

Two hours of this in-your face negativity is more than enough. Four one-hour segments are overkill. Too many clips of Fat Albert. Too much faux indignation over stupid stuff like Cosby playing an obstetrician on The Cosby Show. The barrage of info will test your patience. Also, watching folks hypothesize as they sit on expensive leather coaches, dressed like fashionistas and lit like they’re in a fashion shoot is off-putting. But credit Bell for his inventive style. Incriminating words dance across the screen and victims are noted on a horizontal calendar that pinpoints Cosby’s crimes from the ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s and 90s. Plus, Bell’s insights into black culture, history and the TV industry are thorough and sometimes profound.

Indicting rapists like Cosby is fair game and newsworthy. But many viewers may wish the second two hours of this doc were spent teaching women how to beware of predatory situations, detect rapists, self-defense, report incidents and find supportive aide (e.g., rape crisis centers). We have talks with our sons about encounters with police. Why don’t we have talks with our daughters about dealing with people like him? Bell and this doc had a chance to be an advocate for rape victims and provide a public service. It’s a missed opportunity that would have given the series some depth.

michiganchronicle.com

There wouldn’t be a President Obama without a Bill Cosby. There wouldn’t be 60+ rape victims without a Bill Cosby. It’s an ugly paradox now captured on film.

For more information about the annual Sundance Film Festival go to: https:// www.sundance.org/festivals/sundance-film-festival/about.

Visit NNPA News Wire Film Critic Dwight Brown at DwightBrownInk.com and BlackPressUSA.com.

Self Love From page B-1 And even if fear tries to step in, you can be courageous because you know you deserve good things. You can also say no to situations, people, and things that don’t serve your higher good. That was life-changing for me. I no longer say yes if I don’t want to in regards to helping, supporting, or showing up for other people because the people pleaser in me needed their acceptance.

Saying no allows me to give of myself authentically and not be offended when others don’t do the same for me because I only gave of myself from an overflow. That way, my cup is never empty, and I do not need others to fulfill me. The Universe returns dynamic love, acceptance, and validation from other avenues from that higher vibration of giving. The result is that I can say yes unapologetically, knowing that I wasn’t attached to the outcome as before. I was entirely within myself.

Faith Jenkins From page B-1 you’re supposed to be somewhere different in your life. Or that you’ve missed some certain timeline or timeframe,” said Jenkins to the radio show’s hosts.

In the United States, there is a rising number of singles across genders and races. In a 2021 Pew Research Study, findings show more than 38 percent of adults across the country are living with no partner. This count includes men and women who are neither married or living with a significant other as of 2019.

This number comes as the number of singles delaying marriage continues to climb. In 1990, 67 percent of adults were married. As of 2019, just 53 percent of

• Self-Soothing: There are occasions when we wear our body down. So, it’s good to take time to self-soothe.

Self-soothing allows us time to retreat and renew ourselves. Let it be a warning whenever your life has gotten to the point that you can’t take time alone with yourself; that is the very time you MUST take time for yourself.

Take a bath, read a book, meditate, do some home yoga, paint, or write. Whatever it is, you honor yourself in love when you soothe yourself in solitude regularly.

The above excerpt is from AJ Williams’ book “#KICKASS: A Chick’s Guide to Living a KICK-ASS Life.”

AJ Williams is a Spiritual Wellness Educator, Intuitive Astrologer, Tarot Adviser, Transformational Speaker, and Author with experience in print, radio, and television. She is currently the City.

Life.Style. Editor and resident astrologer for the Michigan Chronicle. Follow her on IG, TikTok and Twitter @MissAJWilliams — www.MissAJWilliams.com adults have engaged in a marriage. For the same timeframe, those who have never been married has grown from 17 percent to 33 percent.

With the release of “Sis, Don’t Settle,” women will be able to find commonality with the judge and find solace in the fact that they are not alone in their single season.

Reflections and Flowers (detail), 2006, Shirley Woodson, acrylic on canvas. Collection of the artist.

Recently announced, Judge Faith Jenkins will leave the “Divorce Court” bench to venture into new endeavors and spend time as a newlywed. She’s taking her talent to the Oxygen network to give even more perspective on relationships. This time, the Jenkins will focus on volatile relationships in her new show “Love Can Be Blind” premiering January 16. Star Jones has been tapped to replace the judge.

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Where City Meets LIFE

and Life Meets STYLE In Print & Online

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michiganchronicle.com | February 2-8, 2022 | Page B-3

Giving It Up Is Not Hard to Do: Sex on the First Date I

By Megan Kirk

n dating, sometimes, physical attraction is the only thing singles have to go on. Laying the foundation to dating, physical attraction between two people is the spark that determines if they will cross the line to an intimate relationship. However, what if the intimacy portion is sped up to the first date?

Sexually liberated women have been labeled with many derogatory names for choosing to give up the goods too early. Women like Instagram celebrity and model Amber Rose have made a career out of and created advocacy around sexual liberation.

Choosing to be intimate on the first date is a taboo topic with both men and women weighing in. Does it ruin chances for lasting love or have no affect on feelings?

Women always reserve the right to choose with whom and when to be intimate. For some women, the first date serves as an audition for long-term dating. For others, first date chemistry can be so high, the sexual tension can only be relieved with a night of passion. However, how does sex on the first date measure up?

“I honestly think men are so simple, they probably think they’ve done something amazing for a woman to be intimate on the first date. It gives them an ego boost and I think they’re okay with leaving it at that,” says Myisha Ishmeal, one

member of The Golden Girls Podcast in Detroit.

While a woman may want to engage in relations on the first date, other factors weigh heavily on the decision to go all the way. Personality can go a long way and can be the gateway to Pantyville. It can also close the doors to the possibility.

“We can tell very early whether you’re worth it or not, but your personality can ruin it very quickly and easily, so tread lightly,” says Ishmeal.

Single men on the dating scene are not always looking for a long-term commitment.

Choosing to skip the romance, some men value women who put their cards on the table from the first hello.

“A woman who gives it up on the first date knows what they want, and I can’t do anything but respect it. Now, if anybody can get it on date one you ain’t the one for me, but I can’t blame a woman because my pimping is flawless. She fell for the macaroni and not matrimony,” says Rodney Brown, a member of Ya Auntie’s Fav Nephew’s Podcast.

Sex can affect long-term dating for some prospective singles. On one hand, early intimacy can be explosive and create an immediate and intense attachment without substance. On the contrary, it can leave much to the imagination and disappoint.

“If you’re hyped about a person and the sex

is terrible, it can definitely move that person down a few notches; and good sex could buy you a little extra time to impress a person. But other than that, I don’t think it matters much,” says Ishmeal. “Sex is just one thing, on a list of things that could contribute to, or diminish the chemistry between two people. But the sex has to be really great, or really bad to be the sole influence of any situation.”

The double standard in dating lies in stereotypes rooted in sexism. Men who are sexually experienced and fluid are ranked high in the options of their peers; women are deemed promiscuous, raunchy, flirtatious and worse. Single ladies are learning men are digressing from quick labels towards sexually liberated women and embracing their direct wishes.

“The only way she’s a whore in my eyes is if three or more people I know personally have had sex with her. If so, no biggie,” says Brown.

Women chime in and believe it comes down to matters of the ego.

“I don’t think a woman becomes a whore after having sex on the first date until she challenges his ego or hurts his feelings,” says Ishmeal.

Despite the debate, men and women may always have different views on intimacy. Regardless of the stance, freedom to choose and respect are both the basis of the decision to go all the way on date one.

Have Your 2022 Resolutions Faded? 5 Tools to Jumpstart Them 4. Sleep tight. If getting more sleep was on your 2022 to-do list but you’re finding it difficult to actually put this goal into action, use an app such as Sleep Cycle to improve your nocturnal habits. Its sound library will ease you into sleep. It also tracks you over night and presents a deep-dive analysis into the quality of your shuteye, along with guidance for changing your routine where needed.

(StatePoint) If it’s time to jumpstart the resolutions you made at the beginning of the year, consider these five tools to make them more attainable: 1. Mix it up. Finding it hard to consume the daily recommended servings of fruits and vegetables? You’re not alone.

Only one in 10 Americans do, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A high-quality blender can make getting your fill of these fundamental food groups easy and delicious. For example, the Ninja, one of the more notoriously powerful machines on the market, allows you to whip up smoothies and juices using whole fruits and vegetables to ensure you extract the most nutritional benefit from each of your ingredients.

2. Touch and go. Learning to play music is easy and fun when you opt for an instrument designed to help you master skills, fast. Offering touch responsive keys that light up as well as a compatible app that can assist you in your learning journey, Casiotone keyboards feature tools that can keep you motivated to continue expanding your knowledge.

3. Walk it off. Stay in shape using wearable tech that will encourage you to keep setting bigger and bolder goals. The G-Shock, a smartwatch with a step tracker, uses a three-axis

acceleration sensor that begins counting steps the moment you start to walk. This data can help motivate you to increase your daily step count and meet the recommended 10,000 steps per

day. With some models offering heart rate monitoring and training analysis, you’ll soon be well on your way to keeping your promise to make the most of your resolutions.

5. Rainy-day prep. Make this the year you finally create a budget that allows you to save for the future. With a reliable printing calculator, you can print out and attach financial planning documents to show the progress of your savings and keep an organized log of monthly income and expenses.

For this purpose, consider the HR-170RC from Casio, a mini desktop printing calculator with a big easy-to-read display, two-color printing and the ability to check and correct up to 150 steps.

Creating new habits is never easy. To help you stick the landing on all your goals, turn to tools that are designed to help.

Page B-4 | February 2-8, 2022 | michiganchronicle.com

A Fresh Start: Dig Deeper This Year

the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”

By Sherri Kolade “The best is yet to come.”

Frank Sinatra who was quoted as saying this got the right idea that better things lay ahead – but what’s the catch?

There doesn’t have to be, especially this year, because good things are ahead if you take hold of them first. For Christians who believe in a higher power, Jesus, the thought of a new year brings new feelings of redemptive powers, a fresh start, and another chance to make lay aside old things and walk into all things new.

Starting anew means walking into sometimes unfamiliar territories that stretch us. It’s uncomfortable at times to put into practice the common new year’s resolutions of eating right, getting fit or focusing on career growth. Spiritual goals and resolutions for some might look like praying more, reading the Bible or having a deeper relationship with God. All of these good intentions require discipline and determination that leads to stretching and growing.

Sheila Alewine, author of the article, Fight Spiritual Distractions with These 5 Tips, wrote that being distracted cannot only throw people off course but could lead to an unfulfilled life. No one wants that in 2022.

Stopping Distractions in the New Year “There are many things that can cause us to be led astray from our devotion to Christ,” Alewine wrote. “All of us know people who were once passionate about following Jesus, but either abandoned their faith completely or spend a lifetime struggling to develop a consistent, spiritually mature walk. You might be one of those people.”

She also asks if God is concerned when we are distracted? The answer is yes.

“For the eyes of the Lord move to and from throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His,” 2 Chronicles 16:9 notes.

“We were never meant to do life alone,” Alewine noted, adding that being a spiritual loner is not healthy and it’s better to find a solid, biblical church and commit to fulfilling “your part in the body of Christ.”

Re-examine Your Life’s Mission and Go After It Every Christ-follower has a duty and fulfillment to bring to fruition: “To make Jesus known and bring glory to God.” That will look different to different people but find out what that is and genuinely pursue it.

In 2022, let it be the year of living distraction-free lives moving in a purpose bigger, and deeper, beyond ourselves.

“Our diligence and loyalty are important to God,” she notes.

Some tips to help live a more intentional, God-filled life include: Keep Your Eyes on Jesus Make a purposeful decision every day to keep the focus on Jesus.

Spend Time in Prayer and Reading God’s Word Regularly One common new year’s resolution for many is to have a deeper relationship with God. What does that look like practically?

For starters, spending time in God’s Word and having a devoted prayer life are non-optional things that are needed to have a relationship with God. Let the World Take a Backseat “Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life is not from the Fa-

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ther but is from the world.” 1 John 2:1516 reminds people to choose who they will serve every day.

Be Accountable to a Local Church Home Hebrews 10:23-25: “Let us hold fast

“Ask God to help you clarify what it is that He has uniquely made you and equipped you to do in His kingdom work,” the author adds. “What is your mission? Write it down and refer to it often. It will simplify your life and allow you to live in undistracted devotion to Jesus.”

Classifieds ANNOUNCEMENTS

michiganchronicle.com | February 2-8, 2022 | Page B-5 HELP WANTED

ANNOUNCEMENTS

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is soliciting RFQ for No. 22-3536 for Bus Body and Frame Repair. RFQ forms may be obtained beginning February 1, 2022 from http://www.mitn.info. RFQ is due by 3:00 PM ET, February 18, 2022.

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is soliciting RFQs for Heavy Duty Diagnostic Scanners, Control No. 22-3527A. RFQ forms may be obtained beginning February 1, 2022, from http://www.mitn.info. RFQs are due by 3:00 PM ET, February 15, 2022.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is soliciting RFP for No. 22-3489 for Short Term Disability Insurance Third-Party Administrator. RFP forms may be obtained beginning February 2, 2022 from http://www.mitn.info. RFP is due by 3:00 PM ET, February 25, 2022.

OPEN ENROLLMENT Grades PK-6 - Noor International Academy 37412 Dequindre Rd, Sterling Heights, MI 48310 (586) 365-5000, www.niapsa.org Accepting Applications: M-Fr 03/01 - 3/31/2022, 8 AM–3:30 PM Fr 3/11/2022, 9:00 AM–6 PM & Sat 3/12/2022, 9:30 AM–12 PM PUBLIC LOTTERY Fri 4/22/2022 @ 3:30 PM

OPEN ENROLLMENT Grades PK-12 (Ages 4-18 yrs.)

Star International Academy 24425 Hass & 24480 George St Dearborn Heights, MI 48127 (313) 724-8990 & 45081 Geddes Rd Canton, MI 48188 (734) 331-3081 www.starpsa.org Accepting Applications: M-Fr 03/01 - 3/31/2022, 8 AM–3:30 PM Fr 3/11/2022, 9 AM– 6 PM & Sat 3/12/2022, 9:30 AM–12 PM PUBLIC LOTTERY Fri 4/22/2022 @ 8:30 AM

OPEN ENROLLMENT Grades PK-12 (Ages 4-18 yrs.)

Universal Academy 4833 Ogden St Detroit, MI 48210 (313) 581-5006, www.universalpsa.org Accepting Applications: M-Fr 03/01 - 3/31/2022, 9 AM–3:30 PM Fr 3/11/2022, 9 AM–6 PM & Sat 3/12/2022, 9:30 AM–12 PM PUBLIC LOTTERY Fri 4/22/2022 @ 1 PM

OPEN ENROLLMENT Grades PK-12 (Ages 4-18 yrs.)

Universal Learning Academy 28015 Joy Road Westland, MI 48185 (734) 402-5900, www.ulapsa.org Accepting Applications: M-Fr 03/01 - 3/31/2022, 9 AM–3:30 PM Fr 3/11/2022, 9 AM–6 PM & Sat 3/12/2022, 9:30 AM–12 PM PUBLIC LOTTERY Fri 4/22/2022 @ 11 AM

HELP WANTED

Seeking Seeking Assistant II Join Our Team Seeking Medical ACCOUNTING CLERK IV Walker-Miller Energy Services is hiring!

OFFICE ASSISTANT III at Oakland University at Oakland University Accounts Receivable Analyst/Accountant – Detroit, MI

ATGraham OAKLAND UNIVERSITY PoliceHealth Department Center

Direct Installer – Lansing, MI Energy Advisor – Detroit, MI Energy Advisor – Grand Rapids, MI To provide specialized office assistance, Energy Specialist – Detroit, MI Energy Specialist – Grand Rapids, MI coordinating procedural business or Field Supervisor – Detroit, MI service activities for a complex program IT Salesforce Developer – Detroit, MI area involving processing, implementing, Marketing Coordinator – Detroit, MI Outreach Manager – Detroit, MI advising on, and reporting specialized Outreach Specialist – Detroit, MI subject matter. Minimum Qualifications: Proposal Manager – Detroit, MI High school graduation or an equivalent Recruiter – Detroit, MI combination of education and experience.Senior Director, Program Operations – Detroit, MI Workforce Development Manager – Detroit, MI Four years progressively responsible office To apply please visit wmenergy.com/careers-2/ perience as a medical assistant or in

PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED

To maintain a variety of highly specialized School of Medicine Coordinate the clinical processing and centralized accounting records and in a Design Release Engineer to coordinate the clerical accounting a funcmedical clinic by performing variety tion of the unit.

Minimum Qualifications: Visteon Corporation is seeking a Design of multi-step High schoolprocesses graduation or according an equivalent to a Release Engineer in Van Buren Twp., MI, to combination of education experience. and lead multi-functional internal global team and specified framework of and procedures Four years clerical accounting/bookcustomer meetings and organize, conduct and regulations, to serve Ability as anto informationkeeping experience. work unlead the PDT meeting, and coordinate with der pressure. operate standard customers affected vehicle platforms; among al source withinAbility theto clinic in addition other duties. Bachelor’s degree in Electrical office equipment. Ability to effectively role as afaculty, medical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Electro-to maintaining interact with thethe public, students, Mechanical Engineering or Software and staff.

Salaryclinic. is $44,592.00 annually.Qualassistant in the Minimum Engineering and four years of experience in See online posting for additional posiifications: High School graduation or the job offered or related. Apply to job tion requirements. First consideration reference number DESIG010705 at: an equivalent of educawill be ­ given combination to those who apply by www.visteon.com/careers/ apply online to:­ exFebruary 10, 2022. MustThree tion and experience. years’ https://jobs.oakland.edu

experience, including direct experience in a directly related field with experience PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED office coordination, i.e., prioritizing work Ricardo, Inc., Van Buren Twp, MI. Apply engineeringin medical office clerical functions. Exprincipals to build, modify, &dvlp 1D gas dynamicassignments, maintaining work flow to meet perience in venipuncture and obtainwww.broharrisrootman.com internal combustion engine models. Perform conceptual &detail analysis of engine &tailpipe deadlines.

This is a full time, clerical-technical ing basic patient information including LOUISIANA ROOTMAN FIXER emissions, acoustic, engine performance, thermal analysis, &real-time analysis for a wide range of blood pressure, electrocardiograph position.

Salary is $43,718.00 annually.

I don’t care what your problem maybe complex &advanced engine configurations incldg downsized light duty, medium-duty, &highmeasurements and urine specimens.

See online posting for additional position performance engines for passenger vehicles I’ll Fix It!!

Seeking Seeking &commercial vehicles. Coordinate model calibration This is a part-time clerical-technical poSeeking Medical Assistant II FirstTRADES consideration will be project activities w/ Engine Simulation Analysts, requirements. other SKILLED VI – 10:00 sition, OFFICE working Monday-Friday, HEALTH LOVE ASSISTANT III colleagues &clients using WAVE &WAVE-RT to at Oakland University PLUMBER ensure SW simulation results match test data given to those who apply by March 23, – 5:00 p.m., 30University hours per week.

MONEY ETC. measured on the dynamometer &dvlp calibration run a.m. AT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY at Oakland procedures for model validation &real-time Graham Health Center 2020.

Salary is $30,973.00 annually.

See HELP IS HERE virtualization. Analyze WAVE-RT models using Plant Maintenance School of Medicine MATLAB &Simulink, to run real-time simulations.Must apply online https://jobs.oakland.edu online posting for additional posiCoordinate theto:candidate clinical processing The successful will become part in a Assist clients to build real-time engine models using WAVE-RT and prepare them to run on Software To in the Blessed Be! tion requirements.

Must apply online of a skilled trade’s responsible for medical clinic by team performing a the variety provide specialized office assistance, Loop for controller testing and Hardware in the Loop campus-wide maintenance activities.

This https://jobs.oakland.edu testing, rapid simulation for long analysis, and controlto: of multi-step processes according to a or I WILL TELL YOU EVERYTHING coordinating procedural individual will be called upon to business perform a system design. Master, Mechanical or Automotive specified framework of procedures and WITHOUT YOU TELLING ME ANYTHING! variety of tasks associated with maintaining Engineering. Mail resume to Ref#40026-101, Human service building activities forHVAC, a and complex program Resources, Ricardo, Inc., 40000 Ricardo Dr., Van plumbing, mechanical regulations, to serveQualifications: as an informationBuren Twp, MI 48111. systems. Minimum High area involving processing, implementing, 1-313-341-0145 al source within the clinic addition school graduation or an equivalentincombi2col. x 4.75 advising on, and reporting specialized nation of education experience. to maintaining theand role as a Jourmedical Bro. Harris - P.O. BOX 21765 Project Engineer neyman’s card or master plumber license subject matter.

Minimum Qualifications: assistant in the clinic.

Minimum DETROIT, MI 48221 from the State of Michigan and proof of sixQualRicardo, Inc., Van Buren Twp, MI. Apply engrg years of High continuing job related experience ifications: School or school graduation orgraduation an equivalent principles to design, modify, evaluate &dvlp High dealing specifically with a variety of comgasoline, diesel &natural gas ICE psgr vehicle an equivalent combination ofexperience. educacombination of education andplumbing design engrg concepts, assuring planning, engrg, mercial, industrial and residential dvlpmt, anlys &continuous reduction in CO2 systems.

Candidate mustThree also possess a extion and experience. years’ &emissions, improvement of fuel economy Four years workingprogressively knowledge of otherresponsible trades includ- office &performance of complex, advanced engines for perience as a medical assistant or in ing electrical and mechanical installations a wide range of vehicle applications, incldg experience, including direct experience in field withinstallations experience as theserelated may impact plumbing downsized light duty, high performance, medium a directly coordination, i.e., prioritizing work and repairs.

Ability to interpret building Ex&heavy duty &large engines for psgr cars office in medical office clerical functions. schematics related to large building sys&commercial &off-highway vehicles. Perform assignments, workand to meet hybrid electric vehicle &Battery Electric Vehicle perience inmaintaining venipuncture obtaintems. Ability to repair equipment inflow a prodvlpmt, durability verification, &cmpnt &sys failure fessional manner.

Ability to work without This is a full time, clerical-technical ing basic patient information including anlys related to powertrain &energy &power deadlines. supervision. Ability to perform work requirconversion syss. Use CATIA, UGNX, PTC Creo, blood pressure, electrocardiograph frequent is standing, reaching,annually. walking, position.ingSalary $43,718.00 &Solidworks to create complex 3D CAD models bending, pulling,and pushing, climbing on a of forgings, castings, &machined, injection measurements urine specimens.

See online posting for additional position ladder and lifting in order to perform various molded parts &fabricated assemblies. Design a part-time clerical-technical popower transmission syss incldg belt drives &gear This is plumbing maintenance and repair tasks; requirements.

First consideration will be layouts, using Ricardo SABR (Shaft &Bearing frequent lifting requiring the execution of10:00 sition, working Monday-Friday, Anlys) &GEAR anlys SW tools to ensure robust up to sixty pounds move andby use tools, given those whoto apply March &durable gear designs. Master, Mechanical, a.m. to – 5:00 p.m., hoursof per week.23, equipment, and the 30 application plumbPHOTO SOURCE: (c) Kelly Sikkema / Unsplash Automotive Engrg, or related. 12 mos exp as 2020. ing is procedures.

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Engineer, applying engrg principles to design or Salary license and a driving record acceptable dvlp passenger vehicle subsystem concepts, Americans Lose 200 Hours of Sleep Must apply online to: https://jobs.oakland.edu online posting for additional for coverage by the university’s insuranceposiassuring anlys or reduction in CO2 &emissions, Application Engineer

carrier. Successful verification above retion requirements.

Mustofapply online Over Debt Stress, Survey Finds quirements through reference checks. See to: https://jobs.oakland.edu online posting for additional position re(StatePoint) A new research study looking at how debt

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quirements. Salary is $33.40 per hour after 90 days/$29.69 per hour probationary.

Oakland University offers an excellent benefit program including a comprehensive medical plan with low contribution amounts for our employees, dental and vision plans at no cost for our employees, generous paid time off, University contributions to our 403(b) retirement plan after eligibility is met, tuition assistance for employees and dependents after eligibility is met, free access to our Campus Recreation Center and workout facilities, and wellness programs.

These are current benefit levels subject to future changes. Must apply ­online to: https://jobs.oakland.edu.

2col. x 4.75

HELP WANTED

Research Associate in Detroit, MI Wayne State University has an available position of Research Associate in Detroit, MI. Position requires a Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering & 24 months experience as a researcher in neurodegenerative diseases. Position also requires: Exp. must include: 1) 24 mos. exp. processing brain MR (magnetic resonance) images; 2) 12 mos. exp. evaluating SWI (susceptibility weighted imaging) data from brain MR images; & 3) 12 mos. exp. evaluating QSM (quantitative susceptibility mapping) data from brain MR images. Exp. reqs. may be met concurrently during the same 24-mo. period. Job duties: Conduct research in neurodegenerative diseases including dementia, multiple sclerosis, & traumatic brain injury. Process MR imaging data for tissue property quantification.

Evaluate SWI & QSM data from brain MR images. Assist coordinating database management of brain MR images. Prepare results of research for publication in peer-reviewed journals. Wayne State University requires all students, faculty & staff to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with limited exceptions. Learn more at: https://wayne.edu/coronavirus. University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting to work. If you are offered employment, the University will inform you if a background check is required. Qualified candidates should apply through the WSU Online Hiring System for posting #045983 at https://jobs.wayne.edu.

Please visit our website for more classified ads. www.michiganchronicle.com

affects daily lives reveals that the true cost of debt is more than making the minimum payments. Having debt can also be detrimental to mental and physical health, and impact life decisions.

Commissioned by National Debt Relief and conducted

by OnePoll, the survey finds that the average American loses over 200 hours of sleep annually over their outstanding financial obligations and has three “debt nightmares” a week.

In fact, seven in 10 feel like a “black cloud” hangs over them when they have to pay a bill or loan, and 71% feel debt has permanently affected them mentally. Those surveyed report an increase in anxiety (38%), stress (33%) and moodiness (32%) because of their debt problems, and 69% of respondents who have been in debt say it’s made them withdraw from the things they love.

The survey also reveals a vicious cycle -- while 77% of people would feel guilty spending money on leisure items knowing they’re in debt, three in five respondents also admit to feeling pressured to spend money they can’t afford to hide their financial situation.

Unfortunately, debt is not just personal. The survey suggests that debt can also place a burden on families and couples. In fact, people worry about debt so much that nearly three in five have even considered putting off marriage to avoid inheriting their partner’s debt and 54% believe having a partner in debt is a major reason to consider divorce. Half of respondents are also afraid of eventually inheriting their parents’ debt.

Experts say that when it comes to combating both debt, and the negative feelings it creates, it’s important to be open with loved ones.

“Hiding debt can lead to feelings of loneliness and embarrassment around friends and family, or pressure to buy things you can’t afford,” says Natalia Brown, National Debt Relief’s chief client operations officer. “Tell your loved ones your financial situation so they know your limits.”

Brown also recommends adopting practices that improve your financial outlook in the short- and long-term while helping you avoid future debt. This includes having smart spending habits that align with your budget, getting health insurance to avoid exorbitant out-of-pocket spending on medical care, and setting up automatic savings.

With these practices, Brown hopes more people will be prepared to pay a surprise $400 bill, which the Federal Reserve reported 40% of Americans would struggle to pay.

Debt management can be complicated, particularly if you owe multiple creditors or if your debt feels overwhelming. It’s no surprise that nearly three-quarters of those polled wish there were tools and resources available to help them when they were at their worst in debt.

To help you pay off your debt faster or even lessen the amount you owe, Brown suggests enlisting the help of a service such as National Debt Relief, which negotiates with creditors on your behalf to significantly reduce your debt, so you can be debt-free in as little as 24-48 months.

As a top-rated debt relief company, National Debt Relief has helped hundreds of thousands of clients over the past decade resolve over $9 billion in unsecured debt on everything from personal loans and medical bills to credit cards and student debt. To learn more, visit nationaldebtrelief. com or call 1-800-781-5141.

With the ability to adversely impact mental health and harm relationships, debt is clearly more than just a financial burden. But there’s good news -- a majority of Americans agree that getting out of debt feels like they’re retaking control of their lives -- and there are debt resources out there to help.

Page B-6 | February 2-8, 2022 | michiganchronicle.com

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