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All Black Everything:

President Joe Biden will deliver the keynote at NAACP’s 69th Annual

UAW Triple Strike Against Detroit Automakers

A Night of Elegance and Excellence at the 10th Annual

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner

By Jeremy Allen EXECUTIVE EDITOR

The importance of the NAACP Detroit Branch’s annual Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner should not be understated. Nationally, it’s the most attended, most well fundraised, and most viewed Freedom Fund Dinners of all NAACP locations.

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

Late Thursday night, Sept. 14, a historic moment unfolded in American labor relations as the United Auto Workers (UAW) union initiated a strike against Ford, General Motors (GM), and Stellantis. For the first time, the union took simultaneous action against all three major Detroit-based automakers. The action involves approximately 13,000 UAW members in assembly plants across Michigan, Ohio, and Missouri, who walked off their jobs after existing labor contracts expired at 11:59 p.m.

IThe Detroit Branch NAACP Freedom Fund Dinner provides its guests with a first-class meal, top-notch entertainment, and some of the world’s renowned keynote speakers.

This year is no different, as President Joe Biden will serve as the keynote speaker for the 69th annual dinner.

Shortly before midnight on Sept. 14, GM released a statement expressing disappointment with the strike action, despite offering what it termed an “unprecedented economic package” that included historic wage increases. Stellantis

n a breathtaking celebration of talent, determination, and the unyielding spirit of Black excellence, the Michigan Chronicle marked its 10th Annual 40 Under 40 event Thursday evening. This year’s soirée, drenched in the theme “All Black Everything with Gold Accents,” transcended expectations and essential ly illuminated the golden gems within the true essence of Black excellence. Hosted by the charismatic duo of Andre Ash and Lynzee Mychael from Michigan Chronicle’s Finally Friday, the night was a triumph for the city of Detroit and its vibrant community of young Black professionals.

“It is our unique privilege and pleasure to announce that our Keynote Speaker for this historic event will be none other than the 46th President of the United States, the Honorable Joseph R. Biden,” said Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony, President of the Detroit Chapter of the NAACP.

VP Kamala Harris speaks at Charles H. Wright Museum

The evening sparkled with a golden promise as we celebrated remarkable individuals from various walks of life. Among the honorees were the brilliant and visionary co-founders of Detroit Hives, Nicole Lindsey and Timothy Paul Jackson. Their work has not only changed the landscape of beekeeping and urban farming in Detroit but also exemplified the transformative impact Black professionals can have on their communities.

also expressed disappointment in a statement, saying the company immediately went into contingency mode to protect its operations.

“President Biden comes at a critical time in our nation’s history. We face tremendous international challenges coupled with domestic and local issues that seek to divide us. However, it is our belief that if we work together as a people that we can resolve these issues for the benefit of all Americans. We will also present to President Biden the James Weldon Johnson Lifetime Achievement Award for a life of dedicated service to the American people.”

Can Reparative Investment Finally

‘In order for it to be a great America, there must be a great Black America’:

VP Kamala Harris Announces

“Entrepreneur of the year – that’s a big deal,” said Brown. “It’s always an honor to be honored and it’s always a blessing to be in a room full of so many talented, accomplished, and popular people that look like me. I’m geeked. I started making and selling clothes as a kid and I always knew that I would have a business, but I never knew it would be Detroit’s brand name business, so I take a lot of pride in the fact that our business represents our city’s pride.”

Heal the Wounds Left by I-375?

Taking home the Corporate Excellence Award was Dannis Mitchell, Director of Community Engagement at Barton Malow.

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

Ash DIGITAL

$100M Automotive Investment

“Together we have created a social, environmental, and financial impact through bees,” said Jackson. Lindsey followed that sentiment with, “It is through our local partnerships and collaborative efforts that we exist in over 28 plus locations managing the health of 4.5 million honeybees – humbly speaking our movement has inspired others locally, nationally, and even internationally to take on similar missions.”

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

ness district that had been the lifeblood of the community.

The UAW has branded the industrial action as the “Stand-Up Strike,” focusing on specific plants within each automaker. UAW President Shawn Fain stated, “This strategy will keep the companies guessing. It will give our national negotiators maximum leverage and flexibility in bargaining. And if we need to go all out, we will. Everything is on the table.” Union leaders have also indicated that additional plants could be targeted in future waves if negotiations remain stalled.

For many Detroiters, Interstate 375, or I-375, has long been just another stretch of urban highway, a concrete artery connecting different parts of the city. To some, it’s a mere convenience; to others, it’s an unremarkable part of their daily commute. However, there’s a deeper, far more troubling story beneath the surface of this seemingly ordinary freeway—a story of pain, displacement, and the lasting impact on Black Detroiters.

Detroit Hives, a pioneering organization founded by Lindsey and Jackson, harnesses the power of urban beekeeping to revitalize neighborhoods in the Motor City. Their initiative not only addresses critical issues like environmental conservation but also provides valuable education and employment opportunities to Black De-

The dinner, which will take place Sunday, May 19, at Huntington Place in Detroit, also will honor a host of other local and national dignitaries for their contributions to the city and beyond.

“It is so important to recognize that there are young leaders across the country, many that are born here in Detroit. I represent our city nationally and I tell people, ‘Yea I’m a D-girl I’m from the west-side of Detroit,’” Mitchell expressed. “But more importantly, I’ve been able to have experiences within an industry that not many of us, specifically women of color, have the opportunity to engage in and I’ve been the youngest person in the room, the only Black person in the room, and the only Sistah in the room, and I really had to articulate the importance of showing up, giving chances when others won’t, and being persistent.” As a trailblazing Black woman thriving in a predominantly male-dominated industry, her unwavering commitment to fortifying the connections between businesses and Detroit’s communities is unde-

It’s a history marred by pain, injustice, and economic devastation. More than 130,000 residents, primarily Black, were forcibly displaced. Families were uprooted, generational wealth was obliterated, and a thriving community was torn asunder. The wounds inflicted by I-375 run deep, transcending the physical barrier of a freeway to penetrate the very soul of Black Detroiters.

program. This will directly support small and medium-sized suppliers as they transition from producing internal combustion engine parts to the specialized components needed for EVs. Such funding seeks to preserve good-paying, union jobs, ensuring that workers continue to thrive in the very communities that have long been home to the automotive industry as it shifts into a cleaner, greener era.

towards mending the wounds inflicted on Black Detroiters and restoring a sense of belonging that was so callously torn away in the past.

A string of shootings in Greektown in mid-April left both visitors and residents of this bustling downtown destination in awe. One of these shootings tragically claimed the life of a popular and beloved security guard following a dispute with a patron.

bolster cybersecurity and productivity, and ultimately cut greenhouse gas emissions. This ensures the automotive sector is wellequipped to embrace sustainability while enhancing its global competitiveness.

The I-375 Boulevard Project is about more than just correcting historical injustices; it’s about redefining the future. It will connect downtown Detroit to surrounding neighborhoods, bridging the gap that was placed upon the city decades ago.

Among the special honorees for the Great Expectations Award is Spain Middle School, which won first place in its division at the State Regional Competition for Robotics, which culminated in Maumee, Ohio.

By Andre Ash DIGITAL ANCHOR

Vice President Kamala Harris visited Detroit on Monday, bringing a transformative vision for the automotive industry’s future with an announcement of $100 million in funding. This significant investment will empower small and medium-sized auto manufacturers to upgrade their facilities and pivot towards the production of electric vehicles (EVs), a crucial shift that aligns with America’s climate and economic goals. Harris made this announcement at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, alongside Michigan’s Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Deputy Secretary Don Graves, Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm, and Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su.

This painful legacy can be traced back to the nation’s interstate highway program of 1956—a program that aimed to connect the country but often did so at the expense of marginalized communities. In the case of I-375, it meant carving a path through the heart of Black Detroit, reinforcing segregation, and perpetuating inequality.

All Hands On Deck to Combat Homelessness

The male suspect allegedly shot the guard before fleeing the scene, while his female companion is accused of concealing the weapon in her bra.

In addition, Harris will introduce a new Small Business Administration initiative to provide manufacturers with the support they need to diversify their businesses and offer lines of credit to small companies, particularly those in auto parts manufacturing. This comprehensive strategy will strengthen America’s supply chain, reduce economic vulnerability, and create opportunities for entrepreneurs.

A Holistic Approach to Providing Shelter and Support for Detroit’s Unhoused People

Renaissance High School will be honored for taking first place in the U.S. Chess Federation National High School Championship U800 Division, which concluded in Washington, D.C., where more than 407 students and 67 teams in their division competed for first place.

The tale begins in what is now Lafayette Park, once known as Black Bottom—a neighborhood rooted in African-American culture and history. Named after its dark, fertile soil, Black Bottom flourished during the mid1900s, nurturing the dreams and aspirations of prominent Detroiters like Coleman Young, Joe Louis, and numerous other Detroit legends. But in the name of urban renewal in the 1950s, this vibrant neighborhood was systematically dismantled, erased from the map, and replaced by a lifeless stretch of asphalt.

Fain clarified the union’s strategy: “I want to give a major shoutout to the thousands of members who are on the picket lines right now fighting for all of us. The Stand-Up Strike is a new approach to striking. Instead of striking all plants at once, select locals will be called on to stand up and walk out on strike. This is our generation’s answer to the movement that built our union – the sit-down strikes of 1937. We told the Big 3 that Sept. 14 was the deadline and we meant it. We gave the companies our economic demands eight weeks ago and it took more than a month to get to the table.”

“Detroit continues to produce champions. We are excited about Black Tech Saturdays, an organization that brings together investors, founders, and technology to create a special place and space for African

The union is pushing for a comprehensive list of demands. This

Homelessness continues to plague urban communities, with families and individuals grappling with the challenges of making ends meet in today’s economic climate. Whether it’s struggling to meet monthly mortgage payments or coping with soaring rental costs in a housing market marked by shockingly high prices, a variety of factors contribute to the growing issue of people becoming unhoused.

While the residential areas bore the brunt of this demolition, the heart of Black Bottom, its thriving business center, remained largely untouched. Restaurants, theaters, clubs, and bars—the very places that brought Detroit’s Black community together—were concentrated around Hastings Street, the epicenter of African-American culture in the city.

“I believe that America economy is powered by the ambition and the aspiration of her people,” shared Vice President Kamala Harris. “The ambition and aspiration to innovate, to create and to prosper. Therefore, to grow our economy, we must invest in that ambition and those aspirations. I believe every person in our country must have access to the opportunity to compete, to succeed, and to thrive; the ability to achieve what I call financial freedom, which means having enough not just to get by but to get ahead.”

Meagan DunnJulie Schneider

Then, in a cruel twist of fate, Hastings Street, too, was obliterated a few years later, making way for the construction of I-375. This marked the final blow, sealing the fate of Black Bottom and signaling the beginning of the end for Paradise Valley, the Black busi-

Housing Resource Helpline in response to the challenges that residents face in navigating the complex system of housing services. The helpline provides a single point of contact for people seeking housing assistance and connects them with the resources they need.

Breaking down the investment, $50 million comes from the Department of Energy’s Automotive Conversion Grants

Historically, shelters have provided a temporary respite for those in need, often serving as the first or second option after exhausting alternatives like staying with friends or family. Shelters offer a place to rest one’s head and a warm meal, albeit sometimes for extended periods. For others, being unhoused means living in cars or makeshift outdoor

Support for the helpline comes from the Gilbert Family Foundation, which has pledged $10 million over three years to fund the program. Wayne Metro Community Action Agency manages the helpline, making it accessible to all Detroit residents. This initiative simplifies access to the City’s various housing services, ensuring that residents in need can easily find assistance.

“Something that we understand here in Michigan, especially in the city of Detroit, is that we’re a city that has historically defined wealth creation for the Black community here in America. See, there are so many people around the country who, when they came to Detroit for the first time, they saw Black people with money. We show it better than most,” Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist jokingly admitted. “What underlines is the fact that people saw a path to progress here in Detroit, Michigan. Whether you were families who came as part of the great migration, like my own, or whether you were entrepreneurs who were so enterprising that discrimination couldn’t keep you out of your dreams. Michigan was a land of opportunity. But too many people too often feel designed out of opportunity today. That’s why we are so proud that this administration has said, no, we will reject any people being blocked out of opportunity.”

These incidents unfolded during an unseasonably warm spring, leading to increased pedestrian traffic and heightened tensions in the densely populated downtown area.

For one to aptly recognize the harm caused by such projects, it is vital to note that some of the planners and politicians behind those projects built them directly through the heart of vibrant, populated communities—oftentimes to reinforce segregation and sometimes as part of a direct effort to replace or eliminate Black neighborhoods.

Today, the resurgence of Paradise Valley stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Black Detroiters and the enduring legacy of Black excellence. This historic district, once a vibrant hub for Black businesses and culture, is experiencing a renaissance that harkens back to its glory days. The destruction of Black Bottom may have torn apart a thriving community, but the resolute determination of a new generation of entrepreneurs and visionaries is reclaiming that lost legacy.

The surge in crime and the influx of visitors to Detroit’s downtown core garnered the attention of the Detroit Police Department (DPD), catching them somewhat off guard.

But now, after decades of enduring the scars of I-375, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon. Plans have been unveiled to transform this once-divisive freeway into a vision that seeks to right the wrongs of the past while heralding a new era of inclusivity and community revitalization.

James White, Chief of Police for the Detroit Police Department, said: “We were caught somewhat flat-footed right out the gate. By design we went into the spring deployment, which is less than the mid-summer deployment, and saw we say an uptick in violence that first warm weekend.”

Secretary Granholm laid the groundwork for this during her March visit to Michigan, announcing a new workforce program that will train battery manufacturers to meet the rising demand for EV production. This latest initiative is a direct extension of President Biden’s commitment to developing an electric vehicle hub in Michigan, focusing on job training through partnerships with employers, community colleges, and high schools to prepare the workforce for a new era of automotive manufacturing.

Chief White attributes the violence in Greektown to a combination of weather conditions and a surge in population.

Another $50 million will flow through the Industrial Assessments Center Implementation Grants Program, which aims to help modernize their facilities for greater energy and material efficiency,

Fueled by more than $100 million from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and other partners, this ambitious project aims to create jobs, remove barriers to economic growth, and reconnect the neighborhood with the rest of Detroit. It is a step

In the heart of Paradise Valley, Blackowned businesses are not just flourishing but thriving, offering diverse services, products, and experiences that pay homage to the past while paving the way for a prosperous future. From jazz clubs to soul food restaurants, the Black Press, and art galleries to fashion boutiques, this revival is breathing life into the very essence of what once made this neighborhood a vibrant cultural epicenter. It’s a resurgence that extends beyond brick and mortar; it represents the resurgence of a spirit that refuses to be subdued.

“So, as of today, applications are open for a first of its kind fellowship that will help ensure that local workers can get those jobs,” announced Granholm. “The program is called Readiness Accelerator for Major Programs or RAMP. It is the connective tissue between a job provider who wants

He explained, “ We saw numbers downtown that we have not seen, ever. People are emerging from COVID and there’s a feeling that we’re in a post-COVID era… and with the venues downtown and the reasons to come down with all the activities that are going on, we saw hundreds of more people and, in particularly, young folks, teenagers that we hadn’t seen.”

Detroit City Councilman Fred Durhal III, representing District 7, where Eastern Market resides, told the Michigan Chronicle, “It’s still very early in the process, MDOT is

Responding swiftly to the surge in violence, DPD adjusted its deployment plans. Rather than waiting for mid-summer, they deployed officers in the spring itself

By Lynzee Mychael MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

The causes of homelessness are as diverse and complex as the individuals experiencing it. In response, the City of Detroit has adopted a holistic approach to combat this issue.

Congress, Senate Races Shape Up After Filing and Withdrawal Deadlines Quietly Pass

By Donald James SENIOR WRITER

“Providing services and high-quality housing to persons at risk of or who are experiencing homelessness is a key priority of the City of Detroit, said Julie Schneider, Director of Detroit’s Housing and Revitalization Department.

Running with Purpose:

What a Federal Government Shutdown Could Mean for Detroiters?

“This means focusing on building the pipeline of supportive housing and coordinating with the Continuum of Care on the delivery of critical resources such as emergency shelter, rapid rehousing, and diversion and prevention programs. It also means preserving and expanding affordable housing options for Detroiters of all incomes and improving housing stability though comprehensive service offerings available through the Detroit Housing Resource HelpLine and Detroit Housing Services Division within HRD.”

Black Resilience Amidst Gentrification: Reclaiming Detroit’s

“The city and its partners offer a lot of great services to help Detroiters with their housing needs, but they don’t mean much if people don’t know how to access them,” said Mayor Mike Duggan. “Thanks to the efforts of our partners and the generous support of the Gilbert Family Foundation, we now have a simple process to guide residents to the right housing resource and a growing number of programs to help them.”

In May 2023, the City of Detroit launched the Detroit

From the days of the Great Migration when thousands of Black families flocked to Detroit in search of jobs and a better life, to the pivotal role they played in the city’s cultural and musical heritage, Black Detroiters have left an indelible mark on the city. However, in recent years, Detroit has experienced significant gentrification, which has raised concerns about the displacement of long-standing Black residents. Similar to a setting sun, there’s a rising spirit, and Black Detroiters are reclaiming their place in the city, despite the challenges posed by gentrification.

The Gilbert Family Foundation’s broader commitment involves pledging $500 million to support projects across Detroit over the next ten years, with housing initiatives being a significant part of their contribution.

Two critical deadlines have passed with little media fanfare but significant political implications.

Candidates vying to run for the U.S. Congress and Senate had until Tuesday, April 23, to officially file for their names to appear on the ballots to run in the primary elections on Tuesday, August 6, 2024. In addition, Friday, April 26, was the deadline for candidates to withdraw from their respective races officially. Winners of the primary elections will move on to the Tuesday, November 5 general election.

Notably, Detroit has witnessed a consistent decrease in recent years, with the number of unhoused residents steadi ly declining. In 2019, approximately 7,847 people were unhoused and entered the City’s community response system. In 2021, about 5,687 people experienced homelessness.

According to the City of Detroit, since the start of the fiscal year 2019 to 2021, Detroit saw a 28% decrease in the

While there will be numerous races to watch throughout the state, several will directly impact Detroit and surrounding cities

According to Historian Jamon Jordon Black

throughout Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties. Once again, the 13th Congressional District will garner much attention. The district consists of portions of Detroit, Dearborn Heights (a portion), Allen Park, Ecorse, all of the Grosse Pointes, Hamtramck, Harper Woods, Highland Park, Lincoln Park, Melvindale, River Rouge, Romulus, Southgate, Taylor, Wayne, and Wyandotte. The 13th, with a population hovering around 757,463, is 48.2 percent Black, making the Democratic district a “Majority-Minority.” Yet, when the 2022 primary and general elections were over, the results left African Americans in the 13th without Black representation in the U.S. House of Representatives. Indian American Shri Thanedar

During the Great Migration, thousands of Black families from the South came to Detroit in search of jobs in the booming automobile industry. Despite facing discrimination and segregation, they built vibrant communities on the city’s east and west sides. Over time, these neighborhoods became centers of Black culture and entrepreneurship.

(D-Detroit) won The Mighty 13th, and the incumbent is seeking a second term. However, Thanedar will be opposed in the primary by a group of Democratic candidates, which includes Shakira Lynn Hawkins (attorney), Adam Hollier

Jordon. “They were coming of course

because of discrimination, but they were also coming because Black people was doing some stuff. When did Black people start doing things in the city? They started doing things in this area in the 1800’s. In the 1800’s the major thing that they were doing

DPD Chief James White

Amidst the glitz and glamour, the event also showcased the diversity of talent within our community. From Paris T. Prichard, a forensic scientist pushing the boundaries of her field, to math wizards like Donna Laster, who

(former state senator), and Mary Waters (Detroit City Councilmember), all of whom are African Americans. The three Black candidates

women been premoment of the final. a law1931 law effect, asked the affirm that constitucontain abortion. Our Planned Advocates of founding coalition ReproducAll, a affirm abortion and freedom in constitution,” Giroux. is that everything in aborMichigan, makes we will we can patients care they

VP Kamala Harris Visit

to offer a job and a worker who wants to get a job.”

Elected officials are also working to keep Roe v. Wade intact thus holding off Michigan’s 1931 trigger ban. Governor Gretchen Whitmer released a statement saying, in part:

“In President Biden’s and vice President Harris’s America, we are building a workforce infrastructure that connects all communities. That is the bridge from poverty to prosperity and from racial exclusion to real equity,” acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su said. “And that’s why we have named Detroit the workforce hub.”

“The words ‘Roe overturned’ are no longer theoretical. I want every Michigander to know— no matter what happens in D.C., I’m going to fight like hell to protect access to safe, legal abortion in Michigan…”

This bold investment aims to redefine the future of the automotive industry by ensuring that small and medium-sized manufacturers can seamlessly transition to producing electric vehicles. But we must ask: what is the ultimate goal here, and will it truly uplift the Black community and other marginalized groups who have historically been left behind in economic shifts? As Vice President Kamala Harris emphasizes job creation, training programs, and investment in underserved communities, will this funding ensure that these changes translate into tangible economic opportunities for the most affected communities, or will the promise of progress bypass those who need it most?

to have representalegislacollection and criminal jusrecomcollection analywith the AttorMichigan Law Standards Association Prosecutors stakeholders collect and strategically. warHouse Operations hearand other would ban of noknock urging the pass reform and Whitmer to the leg-

embraces. transforleadership as a approach that change the syscircumstancoperating Ivory “Transformationdoesn’t just do certhem view of and exdrive that because what create everyentire because

“Too often, people hear workforce development, and they just think about training,” said Su. “Black workers and other workers have been left out, not because they lack the skills, but because we have not built the roads and bridges that connects all communities to new jobs. And so we are going to fix that this time. We’re going to do it right this time.”

It’s not the first time this administration has attempted to connect with local communities in Michigan.

More than legal implications, overturning Roe v. Wade would impact several systems across the spectrum. With the potential to drive both foster and adoption numbers upward, a ban on abortions could leave many women to choose a less safe route restoring ‘back alley’ and illegal abortion practices, including self-abortions. Moreover, African American women and women of color, who already have a long-storied history with access and inclusion in medi-

President Biden’s recent visit to Saginaw drew criticism from some community leaders, who felt that he didn’t meet with enough Black community members and skipped a planned visit to a Black church. These concerns are a reminder that bold initiatives require genuine, inclusive engagement to achieve meaningful change.

cine and healthcare, may be adversely impacted by the decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. “What we are really concerned about is the impact on our patients. Access to abortion is al ready out of reach for far too many Michiganders, especially Black people and people of color who face additional barriers to care as a result of sys temic inequalities and in stitutional racism. Losing access to legal abortion will impact those communities most, forcing people to become parents or expand their families against their will. Being able to decide and control if, when and how to become a parent is central to building and living a healthy, happy life,” said Vasquez Giroux.

“For many of us, the wealth gap has been a conversation that we have had for hundreds of years. Our black families and white families have a huge difference between the financial wherewithal of our communities,” said Ron Busby, president and CEO of the US Black Chambers, Incorporated in Washington, DC.

what the Supreme Court will rule in the upcoming

“The only way you can truly find solutions is through good policies, policies that are intentional, transparent and accountable. That’s what today is all about.”

Amidst all the bells and whistles on Monday at the Charles H. Wright Museum one must wonder, will this new announcement strike the right chord with the communities it intends to uplift, or will it miss the mark again in ensuring Black voices are actively heard and their economic interests are tangibly prioritized?

Beyond the scope of pro-choice versus prolife, the fight for reproductive choice is one of freedom. As Michigan officials work to ensure each woman who finds herself in the position to choose has access to care without the threat of legal action, many wonder

tices will reject the find ings of this draft. If that is not the case, we need to stand with Senate Majority Leader Schumer and Gov. Whitmer in support of their efforts to preserve the right to reproductive freedom,” said Chair Alisha Bell, on behalf of the Wayne County Commission.

be a great - Black America. And in order to get to be a great Black America, we must have great Black businesses. And in order to have great Black businesses, we need an administration and leadership that understands the challenges as well as the benefits supporting our community.”

Ballot Deadline

running are a far cry from the 2022 primary when eight of the nine Democratic candidates in the 13th Congressional race were African American.

“As this year progresses, we are going to hear a lot about making America great again,” said Busby. “But we say, in order for it to be a great America, there must

On the Republican side of the ballot in the 13th, native Detroiter Martell Bivings, who is African American, will run as the only GOP candidate in the storied congressional district. Bivings unsuccessfully ran against Thanedar in the 2022 general election.

In another Congressional race of interest, Democratic U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib will seek re-election in Michigan’s 12th Congressional District. The 12th includes Dearborn, a part of Detroit, and other sectors of Wayne and Oakland counties. Fellow party member Ryan Foster, a Detroit teacher, has filed to run against Tlaib in the primary. Republican candidates running in the primary include Steven Elliott (Marine veteran), James Hooper (building tradesman from Detroit), Hassan Nehme (entrepreneur and former vice chair for the Michigan Republican Party), and Linda Sawyer (Wayne County Republican Party committee member).

The winner will face James in the November general election.

If the 10th Congressional seat is to remain Black, James will have to win in the general election, or Powell or Tilley will need to win in the primary and general.

In Michigan’s 8th Congressional District, which includes Flint, Saginaw, Bay City, and Midland, U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee (D-Flint) has announced he will not run for re-election. However, fellow Democrats running are Matt Collier (former Flint mayor), Pamela Pugh (President, State Board of Education), and Kristen McDonald Rivet (state senator). Pugh is an African American.

Republicans Mary Draves (former corporate executive), Anthony J. Hudson (small business owner), Paul Junge (criminal prosecutor), and Nikki Snyder (member of the State Board of Education) are running in the primary.

The U.S. Senate race will also be of great interest after Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D) chose not to run for re-election in 2024.

to ensure the goal for Michigan schools should be history instruction that is presented by professionals with the subject matter expertise, pedagogical skills, and judgment necessary to present complex information to students that are grounded in provable facts and add to the understanding of modern-day America.

Freedom Fund Dinner

Protecting Black voting rights: Urge state officials to remain vigilant in the fight against schemes to disenfranchise Michiganders of color.

American innovation, creativity, and excellence. They too will receive a Great Expectations Award,” Anthony said.

This year’s Ida B. Wells Freedom & Justice Award will be presented to Attorney Khalilah V. Spencer. Spencer is a partner at Honigman Law Firm, serves on the Executive Board of the Detroit Branch NAACP, the Executive Committee of the Michigan State Conference NAACP, and is President of Promote the Vote. She is dedicated to informing, mobilizing, and supporting organizations and individuals whose task is to make sure every Michigander has the right to access the voting booth.

Increase mental health supports for the Black community: Recommending Michigan set a goal of increasing the number of Black mental health service providers by 20% each year over five years.

he understands how vital this organization is and how critical this time is.”

“BLAC members have worked hard to identify the needs of the Black community and we feel these recommendations will provide a solid first step towards breaking down barriers in education, community safety, health and business,” said BLAC Co-Chair Dr. Donna L. Bell.

Nationally, the NAACP will present to Rev. Dr. Frederick D. Haynes, III, Senior Pastor of Friendship-West Baptist Church, civil rights icon and activist, prolific preacher, and lecturer our William Monroe Trotter Freedom & Justice Award. Dr. Haynes has been unparalleled in his articulation of peace and justice and a bearer of the cause of freedom across our nation.

people believe that they need to for themselves and others to live better lives.”

Senator Debbie Stabenow will receive the very special Presidential Award. Senator Stabenow serves as the Chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry and has been a stalworth in her support of Detroit and Michigan in the cause of justice and equity across our nation. Her life’s work has been reflective of one who is truly dedicated to the lifting up of people regardless of race or background.

The Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner was launched in April 1956 under the leadership of Branch President Edward M. Turner, Arthur L. Johnson, and Dr. Lionel F. Swan. The Freedom Fund Dinner was founded in a period of renewed national hope and determination among Black Americans, even in the face of continuing racial violence and tragedy.

BLAC will hold a virtual town hall meeting to discuss its policy recommendations on Thursday, May 12 at 4 p.m. Join BLAC and a virtual audience in discussing the recommendations to support the Black community.

As Michigan’s lone Black representative in the U.S. House of Representatives, Republican John James, who represents the 10th Congressional District, will run in the primary without opposition from fellow GOP candidates. The 10th consists of southern Macomb County cities and Rochester Hills in Oakland County. Six Democrats are set to run in the primary: Emily Busch (businesswoman), Dr. Anil Kumar (surgeon and educator), Carl Marlinga (former Macomb County Prosecutor), Rhonda Powell (Statewide Operations Director of We the People MI), Tiffany Tilley (Co-VP, Michigan’s State Board of Education), and Diane Young (entrepreneur).

The Secretary of State’s listings for the U.S. Senate primary race include Democratic candidates Nasser Beydoun (businessman), Hill Harper (attorney, actor, Detroit resident), and Elissa Slotkin (U.S. Congresswoman). The Republican field will include Justin Amash (former U.S. Rep.), Sherry O’Donnell (physician), Sandy Pensler (businessman), and Mike Rogers (former U.S. Rep.).

Michigan has never elected an African American to represent the state as a U.S. Senator. If that history is going to change, Democratic candidate Hill Harper will have to win the primary and general elections.

According to The Office of Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, posted on April 29, for a complete listing of all 2024 Michigan candidates running for various political offices and judgeships, log on to www.michigan.gov/sos/elections.

CONSOLIDATED PLAN ANNUAL ACTION PLAN FOR FY24. THE ANNUAL ACTION PLAN INCLUDES COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDING TO BE USED FOR MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY’S (MSHDA) CDBG HOUSING INITIATIVES IN NON-ENTITLEMENT AREAS STATEWIDE FOR AND HOUSING RECOVERY FUND DATA REPORTING AND TO FORMALLY ADJUST REPORT NOTIFICATION PROCEDURES.

“Chancellor Ivery is a true transformational leader and an outstanding CEO, who is more than worthy of the CEO of the Year Award he just received, “ said Prof. James C. Mays, who teaches entrepreneurship and supply chain management at WCCCD’s Corporate College. “In his 27 years at WCCCD, Dr. Ivery has elevated WCCCD to become nationally recognized for excellence and innovation and preparing our students professionally and personally to do great things in the world.”

“The great philosopher and writer Ralph Waldo Emerson left us a prolific paradigm when he said, ‘Democracy is not a spectator sport. It is a participatory event. If we don’t participate in it, it ceases to be a democracy.’ This is why the Detroit Branch NAACP continues to call upon all of us to participate in the preservation of our liberty and the protection of our freedom. As we face critical decisions related to policies and programs concerning health care, the right to vote, economic access and developments, international crises of war and division, a rise in hate crimes, as well as tensions in colleges and universities across the nation, all of us must participate in the great cause of equality and liberty for all,” Anthony said.

This year, Gary Torgow, Chairman of Huntington National Bank, will serve as the chair of the Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner. Torgow said he’s honored to be chairing the civil rights dinner this year.

“When Rev. Anthony says it’s the hottest dinner, it’s not only the hottest dinner, but there are more people that attend this dinner here in Detroit, Michigan than any event in the country. It’s the 69th annual, and every year it gets bigger, and better, and more important. The reason that there is an NAACP and the reason there is a dinner is because of the tremendous effort of Kamilia Landrum, our wonderful executive, and the greatest civil rights leader that Detroit has ever seen, and we’re privileged to have him in Detroit – Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony,” he said.

BLAC is housed in the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. Members represent many professional backgrounds, including economics, law, public safety, health and wellness, arts and culture and media. They leverage their experiences and expertise to make recommendations to the governor on critical issues affecting the Black community.

“We are pleased to announce the NAACP’s commitment to always speak truth to power and to advocate justice and peace for those often overlooked and many times are neglected. Our special honorees for 2024 reflect a very diverse assembly of those whose lives and work reflect the true mission and vision of the NAACP.”

To learn more about BLAC and this upcoming event, visit www.michigan.gov/BLAC.

The Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner will be preceded by Freedom Weekend in partnership with the Freedom Institute for Economic, Social Justice, and People Empowerment. Freedom Weekend is scheduled for Tuesday, May 14, through Saturday, May 18. Freedom Weekend will be held at Fellowship Chapel United Church of Christ and the Wayne County Community College District Northwest Campus. It will consist of Health/Run/ Wellness Day, Seniors Care Day, Youth Career Summit, and a special Labor Leaders Luncheon on May 17, featuring the first African American President of the Communications Workers of America, Claude Cummings. All laborers and people who believe in workers’ rights are invited to attend this very special gathering.

Prior to submission for further funding from the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Office of Community Planning and Development, Michigan is required to publish an Annual Action Plan document for public review and comment tied to the State's five year Consolidated Plan. The Annual Action Plan proposes an action strategy by which needs will be addressed and reflects activities undertaken between July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024. The Annual Action Plans are funded by six formula programs covered in the Michigan Consolidated Plan: HOME, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDs (HOPWA), the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), Recovery Housing Program (RHP), and the Housing Trust Fund (HTF). The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) is responsible for preparing the Annual Action Plan as well as the annual Michigan Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) and soliciting comments from the public regarding the outcomes tied to the Plan on an annual basis.

The comment period will commence on Thursday, May 9, 2024, and end on Friday, May 23, 2024. The primary focus will be: 1) to receive comments regarding the draft annual action language; 2) to provide an opportunity for public comment regarding the outcome measurements for the Recovery Housing Program's annual reports and overall data projection comparisons vs. results to date; and 3) acknowledge a CDBG one-time fiscal year voluntary grant reduction of $672,565. The Consolidated Plan proposes an action strategy by which those needs will be addressed through five program years.

MSHDA is responsible for preparing the Michigan Consolidated Plan and soliciting comments from the public regarding the plan and its subsequent amendments.

An in-person public hearing will be held at the MSHDA office, 735 East Michigan Avenue, Lansing on Monday, May 20, 2024, from 9 am – 10 am. A virtual public hearing will be held on Monday, May 20, 2024, from 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm via Microsoft Teams, Meeting ID: 296 263 066 314, Passcode: Eke6pq OR call in (audio only) +1 248-509-0316, Phone Conf ID: 888644520#

All interested parties are invited to submit written comments directly related to the proposed annual action plan draft content. Information gathered during the written comment period will be used to prepare the Annual Action Plan submission. Individuals and organizations may submit written comments to MSHDA, Attn: Tonya Joy, 735 East Michigan Avenue, P.O. Box 30044, Lansing, MI 48909. Written comments must be received no later than May 23, 2024. Comments can also be submitted to the MSHDA Consolidated Plan Coordinator via e-mail to mshda-cdbg@michigan.gov.

Copies of the Michigan Consolidated Action Plan and Annual Action Plan may be downloaded free of charge from the MSHDA website at www.michigan.gov/mshda/ neighborhoods/michigan-consolidated-plan.

“We need to take our soles to the polls, and that’s what the NAACP stands for more than anything. The fact that the president is coming to this dinner and being given this wonderful honor and honoring us with his presence is because

For more information and to secure your tickets or tables for the Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner, contact the NAACP at (313) 871-2087 or go to detroitnaacp.org.

The health committee

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NAACP Detroit President Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony announces President Joe Biden as the keynote speaker for the upcoming Freedom Fund dinner.

LT. Governor Garlin Gilchrist speaks at Charles H. Wright Museum

A3 | May 8-14, 2024

New RiverWalk Boardwalk Opens Just in Time for Summer in Detroit

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

This summer, Detroit is set to celebrate a significant expansion of its beloved RiverWalk with the opening of a new 930-foot boardwalk extending west from downtown. This latest development is a crucial piece in the ongoing revitalization of the city’s waterfront, promising enhanced access and enjoyment for residents and visitors alike.

Located 17 feet out from the river’s shore, the boardwalk will connect the current endpoint near the Riverfront Towers apartment complex to the area just west of the site of the now-demolished Joe Louis Arena. Although completed in 2020, the opening of this scenic walkway over the water was delayed until the adjacent land-based path could also be completed. This strategic decision was made to ensure a continuous and safe experience for all who visit.

Construction is now well underway on the essential 1,800-foot stretch of land pathway, managed by Warren Contractors & Development Inc., with Santos Cement as a key subcontractor. This section is not only functional but designed with community in mind, featuring planter-type seating and landscaped areas where visitors can relax and enjoy the waterfront views. The design by SmithGroup focuses on both utility and aesthetic appeal, aiming to make the RiverWalk a destination where Detroiters can come together.

Upon completion this summer, the boardwalk will temporarily link to Jefferson Avenue through a paved asphalt path. This interim solution will provide access to Riverside Park and further extend to the vibrant neighborhoods of Michigan Central, Corktown, and Mexicantown via the nearby Southwest Greenway. This route is part of the ambitious plan to create a 2-mile stretch of the west RiverWalk, from the former Joe Louis Arena site to Riverside Park, located just west of the Ambassador Bridge.

The upcoming Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park is another exciting development in the area, set to open next year. This park will seamlessly integrate into the new RiverWalk section, adding green spaces and recreational facilities such as the Delta Dental Play Garden and the William Davidson Sports House. The progress on the park can already be seen, with play structures and other amenities

See RIVERWALK BOARDWALK Page A-4

Lt. Governor Gilchrist Honors Inkster’s Malcolm X House Preservation Project

By Jeremy Allen EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Annual Governor’s Awards recognizes historic preservation achievements in Michigan

If you’re from Inkster, you know that for the better part of the past decade, Aaron Simms and Dawon Lynn have been on a quest to turn Malcolm X’s Williams Street home into a national museum.

The home is where Malcolm lived for nearly two years in the early 1950s with his brother and sister-in-law after he was released from a Massachusetts prison.

“Detroit Red: This is where he laid his head and the foundation for the leader he became. He converted to Islam while he was living here with his brother. So it’s time for Inkster to hold its head high and say we had one of America’s greatest,” Simms told the Michigan Chronicle earlier this year.

On May 2, 2024, Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) awarded Simms and three other Michigan preservation projects for the Governor’s Awards for Historic Preservation during a ceremony hosted by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). Communities outside of Inkster represented by the projects include the Hiawatha National Forest region, the Keweenaw Peninsula, and Ludington.

Now in its 21st year, the Governor’s Awards for Historic Preservation program, held annually during National Historic Preservation Month, was created by SHPO to celebrate outstanding historic preservation

achievements that reflect a commitment to the preservation of Michigan’s unique character and the many archaeological sites and historic places that represent our rich past. This year’s event took place in Heritage Hall at the Michigan State Capitol.

“The Malcolm X House is a reminder of Michigan’s special role in the movements for civil rights and freedom,” said Governor Whitmer. “Since our state’s founding, Michigan has played host to so much history, and we have a responsibility to keep telling those stories to inspire future generations. Together, we can protect and expand our fundamental rights and keep moving Michigan forward.”

Over the decades, the house fell on hard times, leading it to be marked for demolition. After a multi-year effort, the house was removed from the demolition list, listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and a substantial rehabilitation project is now underway. Led by the non-profit Project We Hope, Dream, and Believe, the house is being transformed into a museum that will focus on the life and significance of Malcolm X, advocacy, and as a youth learning center.

A partnership with the Wayne State University Anthropology Program was established to conduct archaeological studies on

Detroit Grit breaks NFL Draft’s record

By Eric B. Larson DOWNTOWN DETROIT PARTNERSHIP, CEO

The NFL Draft in Detroit is quite possibly one of the most successful events in the city’s history, and from the moment it was announced that Detroit was the 2024 host city, more than two years ago, it has been the ultimate team effort.

The Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) has been part of the organizing committee alongside the NFL, Detroit Lions, City of Detroit, Visit Detroit, Detroit Sports Commission, Bedrock, and many others in the local community and business sectors. What an honor it was to watch the years of planning and visioning come to life. At the start of it all, we determined the top three key objectives for the Draft in Detroit:

■ It had to be safe.

■ It had to positively impact the community.

■ It had to showcase our great city.

Everyone stepped up. This piece is a snapshot of how we worked together to deliver a safe, welcoming, inclusive, impactful, fan- and business-friendly event with incredible entertainment value that positioned Detroit in the very best light. All the while never losing sight of how the community could benefit. We never imagined that the Detroit Lions would also have their best season in more than 30 years, along with the University of Michigan winning the

National Championship. Suffice it to say, all of this created a ripe environment for the NFL Draft to touch down in Detroit.

Draft by the Numbers

The NFL Draft welcomed over 775,000 attendees over three days, shattering Nashville’s total of 600,000. While droves of fans saw the city firsthand, television coverage of Round 1 surpassed 2023’s total, with an average audience of 12.1 million viewers across ESPN, NFL Network, ABC, and digital/streaming channels. We estimate more than 34 million viewers saw Detroit at its finest. The impact is further accelerated by the 1,800+ media outlets who had teams on the ground for on-site coverage, putting our world-class city into countless print articles, radio and television broadcasts, blogs, and more.

While the total economic impact of the Draft will be calculated over the next few weeks and months, there is speculation that we broke the mold there, too. Without a doubt, this historic and record-breaking event helped the nation to realize what we’ve always known – Detroit’s grit is unrivaled. Successful large-scale events require collaboration among civic, corporate, community, and public safety agencies. Safety measures and technology for this event, including support from other regional depart-

ments, helped to keep this event moving smoothly and safely. Bringing it home

Many worried that the Draft would not benefit the local community, and I’m proud to say we disproved that sentiment. From the onset, organizers decided to donate $1 million to community initiatives to support youth groups throughout the city.

NFL Draft planners contracted with over 60 local businesses to build the campus, staging, gaming, fencing, and run the operations, the theater, and more. That alone amounts to millions of dollars of direct local economic impact.

The DDP had a direct role in this effort. At DDP’s Draft Day in the D events in Capitol Park, Beacon Park, Paradise Valley Beatrice Buck Park, Grand Circus Park, and a closed-off portion of Woodward Avenue, we deployed 90 food trucks, and featured 135 small businesses, most of which were Detroit-owned. Another 37 musicians, artists, and performers were engaged. I would be remiss if I didn’t share that this is an aim for all DDP parks events and activations yearround. The Downtown Detroit Business Im-

Preservation Project

the Inkster property, yielding hundreds of 20th century artifacts. The project has been embraced by the community who support the effort and have been getting involved every step of the way. Despite his transient life, few of the places Malcolm resided remain standing today. Although vacant for several years, the form and structure of the modest house are largely intact as it was when the Littles lived here. The rehabilitation project is expected to be completed in 2024 as an important Inkster destination and place of learning in the community.

provement Zone Ambassadors, 99 percent of whom are Detroiters, and an additional 260 volunteer shifts, were out in full force inside the Draft and the areas outside the Draft footprint to ensure the city remained clean, safe, and welcoming.

Several members of the Metro Detroit Black Business Alliance earned contracts with the NFL Draft and the DDP, and other organizers made it a priority to highlight Black-owned businesses.

We saw, first-hand, several local businesses and vendors experiencing an overflow of customers along with invaluable brand awareness and connections over the Draft weekend.

For three days, the NFL Draft also hosted Play Football Field at Corner Ballpark presented by StatusPRO. This offered youth a chance to participate in football clinics, drills, obstacle courses, and watch and learn sessions with NFL players and USA Football coaches, as well as enjoy face painting, food trucks, and more.

There are countless examples from the NFL Draft in Detroit that show what can happen when we intentionally work together to be thoughtful, inclusive, and focused on our community and its residents.

There’s plenty more in store, visit DowntownDetroit.org to stay updated with the latest info.

“The preservation of the Malcom X home is a source of pride for city residents. I am pleased it was chosen to restore this important piece of the Inkster’s history,” said Sen. Dayna Polehanki (5th District).

The house is expected to be completed this summer, and Simms said other than turning the physical house into a museum, there are plans to convert adjacent properties into community spaces and urban agriculture plots for sustainable community food growing.

“This project has been a labor of love, but the community deserves to see this rich history. Inkster has a rich history and Malcolm X is a part of that, so we’re not going to stop until we see that through,” Simms said.

more than $300 million. The newly opened Southwest Greenway now connects Centennial Park to Southwest Detroit, forming part of the developing, 29.5-mile Joe Louis Greenway.

The joint efforts continue as the city works to raise an additional $210 million with the Joe Louis Greenway Partnership. This funding will support the completion of the west RiverWalk and the greenway, as well as a $100 million permanent endowment to ensure the sustainability of these

This year, the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy’s

A5 | May 8-14, 2024

Michigan State Alum

Sam Klemet Named Co-Executive Director of Detroit Auto Show, DADA

By Jeremy Allen EXECUTIVE EDITOR

The Detroit Auto Dealers Association (DADA) announced the addition of Michigan native Sam Klemet as Co-Executive Director of the DADA and the North American International Detroit Auto Show. The DADA represents nearly 300 domestic and import new car and truck dealerships in Southeast Michigan and oversees the Detroit Auto Show, which has had an economic impact of $8 billion over the last 25-plus years.

The next iteration of the Detroit Auto Show will return back to its January schedule (Jan. 10-20, 2025), and do away with the summer iteration, as it had lower turnouts than in previous years when it kicked off event season in Detroit. A career broadcaster and association management professional, Klemet joins the DADA team and will work alongside Rod Alberts, DADA and Detroit Auto Show Executive Director.  Alberts will remain in his position, co-directing with Klemet, through the 2025 Detroit Auto Show.

“Sam has a unique skill set blending association management expertise with behind-the-mic experience, both of which are a perfect complement to our organization and its trajectory for the future,” Alberts said. “This is a transformative time in our industry, and my goal is to leave this association in the best possible place as we move forward in this new age of mobility.  And, after 34 years with the DADA, it’s an ideal time -- especially as we lead up to a new Detroit Auto Show in January -- to set the wheels in motion for an eventual hand-off to the next generation.”

Klemet comes to the DADA from the Michigan Association of Broadcasters, where he was President and CEO since 2021.  There, he led advocacy initiatives, continuing education, and awards programs on behalf of 285-member commercial TV and radio stations and 30 public TV and radio stations.  In this role, he was also responsible for coordinating legislative initiatives in Washington D.C. and Lansing.

Previously, Klemet spent six years with the Indiana Broadcasters Association and Indiana-based Arland Communications, where he was charged with overseeing advocacy and compliance initiatives for more than 270-member TV and radio stations.

Prior to his career in association management, Klemet was a broadcast journalist, producer, and news director at a number of commercial and public stations in Indiana, Minnesota and Illinois.

Alberts came to the Motor City in 1990 and was soon named to the top position at the DADA and the auto show.

“We are grateful for Rod’s continued leadership in assisting with this transition and for his significant contributions over three decades,” said DADA President Todd Szott.  “We are confident in our

Money.

Renting or Buying a Home in Detroit… Which Makes the Most Sense in Today’s Economy?

By Donald James SENIOR WRITER

National Financial Literacy Month just ended, but it’s an excellent time for people thinking about moving to weigh whether it’s more financially prudent to buy or rent in Detroit. According to most real estate industry professionals, the question to buy or rent is not a one-size-fits-all answer, and making the right decision will involve numerous factors, such as evaluating of one’s employment and financial stability, credit score, lifestyle preference, and long-term goals.

“The benefit of buying is that you are basically locking in, to a certain degree, your monthly housing costs in an environment where rent is constantly going up,” Austin Black II, an associate broker at City Living Detroit/Christie’s International Real Estate, told the Michigan Chronicle. “In terms of renting versus buying, I see renting as a benefit for someone who views their living situation as more short-term, like a couple of years or so. However, my goal is to work with clients to make sure that they make the right choices.”

Renting typically involves paying a lower initial cost of a security deposit and the first month’s rent, possibly paying both the first and last. Other benefits to renting are that maintenance costs and repairs are the landlord’s responsibility, freeing renters from an array of surprise expenses. In essence, renting allows the tenant to set and follow a budget because of fixed monthly payments.

Conversely, real estate experts said that monthly rent payments don’t build equity, as opposed to what mortgage payments will do on a home over time. And rent prices can and do rise, with the possibility

of a landlord deciding to sell the property or not renew a tenant’s lease.

“If you are looking for stability, purchasing a home is always your best option,” said Ursula McCray, a Detroit-based licensed real estate agent for Atlanta-based The Thomas Agency, which serves clients in Georgia, Michigan, and California. “While the cost of homes in Detroit and the Metro area will rise, buying a home before they rise, along with interest rates, is a good move.”

Many realtors in the city and across Metro Detroit are seeing an uptick in homes purchased by Millennials and the “older age bracket” of Gen Z. Millennials, also known as Generation Y, refer to anyone born between 1981 and 1996, and Gen Z includes anyone born from 1997 through 2012, according to the Pew Research Center.

“I’m seeing many homebuyers in their mid-20s to early 30s looking to purchase homes,” McCray said. “I see newly engaged and newly married couples and young families looking to build equity through purchasing homes coming to me to help them.”

At 27 years old, Jonathan James, a licensed realtor with Max Broock Realtors in Michigan, was born on the cusp of Gen Z and Millennials. James said that he’s seeing a different type of trend involving “older Gen Zers” (ages 22- 27) and Millennials (28 – 43) opting to rent/lease homes or condominiums in downtown and midtown Detroit, Royal Oak, Birmingham, and West Bloomfield Hills, even though they can afford to buy, including Detroit pro athletes who he has worked with to fulfill their respective housing needs.

“While I always talk with my clients about the value of buying as an investment versus renting/leasing, many Gen Zers and Millennials don’t want to make the long-

term commitments related to living situations,” said James, who is also licensed in Florida. “However, some of my Gen X or Boomer clients are choosing to buy rather than rent, knowing the rising values of homes in Metro Detroit are below the national average.”

Interestingly, in a New York Times article earlier this year titled “Where Can Gen Z Buy a Home?” Detroit was among the top three American cities listed. The story said, “Homeownership among Gen Z is about 17 percent in Detroit, a good indicator of continued success for others in the age bracket.”

In another survey of Gen Zers and Millennials in Detroit, conducted by Rentcafe, a nationwide online portal used by millions to locate rental properties, the published findings seem to support the trend of renting versus buying. The survey reported that the Gen Zers in Detroit are anticipated to spend $121,800 on rent by age 30, compared to the cost of home ownership at around $145,300. The same report included Detroit Millennials in their 20s, who are expected to spend $107,600 on rent before hitting 30 compared to $159,000 in costs to own, excluding the down payments.

Black said he also sees many older Gen Zers entering the housing market as firsttime buyers in Detroit and throughout the tri-county area. Yet, he continues to serve clients who are Millennials, Gen Xers, and Baby Boomers, who, in most cases, are not purchasing their first home.

“I am also working with people relocating from other states,” Black said. “Many are coming from areas on the West Coast, particularly California. On the East Coast, people are moving here from the Washing-

DTE Energy’s latest rate hike request draws the ire of State Attorney General

By Donald James SENIOR WRITER, REAL TIMES MEDIA

On the heels of DTE Energy filing for another rate increase with the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) in late March 2024, this time to the tune of $456 million, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office has filed a notice of intervention with the Commission. Nessel noted in December 2023, MPSC approved a $368.1 million electricity rate hike for the giant utility company after DTE initially asked for a $622 million increase.

“This latest rate hike request from DTE is, frankly, absurd in both the astounding dollars and obnoxious timing - requesting yet another $450 million not even four months since their last rate hike was approved,” Nessel said in a statement. December’s approval equates to DTE residential customers’ monthly rates rising about $6.51. If MPSC approves DTE’s March rate increase request, residential customers’ energy bills are expected to rise another $11.00 per month beginning January 2025.

DTE defends its latest rate hike proposal, saying it’s needed to rebuild and strengthen the company’s electric grid and replace coal plants with lean energy technologies such

as wind turbines and solar power panels, all necessary to meet Michigan’s new clean energy goals by 2040.

“Our investment plan is focused on building the grid of the future, improving reliability, and transitioning to cleaner generation,” Joi M. Harris, President & COO of

DTE Energy, said during a first-quarter corporate conference call presentation on April 25, 2024, which was posted online by DTE.

“We have a robust agenda of $25 billion over the next five years, with about 95% of the investments at our utilities. Our fiveyear utility investment plan was increased

by $2 billion over the previous plan, driven by investments in cleaner generation that is supported by the IRP (Integrated Resource Plan), the energy legislation passed last November, and our voluntary renewables program.”

“DTE is following their usual playbook, incessant and oppressive rate hike requests not grounded in reality, but rather based on the financial aspirations of their corporate shareholders,’ Nessel said in a press statement. “And DTE demands the money without implementing any corresponding accountability or reliability metrics and measures. DTE’s captive ratepayers in Detroit and elsewhere deserve better than this exploitation, where the utility baselessly demands more and more from their customers without promising anything in return by way of increased reliability or accountability.”

Reliability and accountability are key factors that DTE customers consistently want, given several national reports that list Michigan “near the bottom” of states demonstrating high levels of utility efficiency and reliability.

Climate Central, a Princeton, New Jersey-based nonprofit news organization that analyzes and reports on climate and energy

Sam Klemet

issues, places Michigan second to Texas for the most major power outages in America between 2000 and 2021. Realizing that almost 50 percent of power outages in Michigan are caused by fallen trees and branches on power lines, in 2021, DTE Energy launched the firstof-its-kind Tree Trimming Academy, giving Detroiters training and employment opportunities to help DTE be proactive in trimming trees around power lines.

Yet, beyond the tree-trimming initiatives, DTE top executives and other stakeholders know more must be done to build the best grid possible.

ton, D.C. area. Some have ties to this area, but some do not. The driving force for many looking to purchase here is that the housing costs in Detroit and Metro Detroit are much lower than where they come from.”

James agreed, having worked to find Metro Detroit housing – rental or purchase – for clients relocating from states including Indiana, Georgia, and Florida.

“Many people are sur-

future direction with his support and collaboration with Sam.  And, we look forward to evolving our association and auto show as the winds of the industry continue to change in the years to come.”

Klemet graduated in 2007 from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Journalism.

“For decades, DADA members and the Detroit Auto Show have been a part

“I would say that we’ve been investing heavily for the last five years, and over the next five years, I think we will climb that ladder to being at least median performance, and then we’re going to continue to build a best-in-class grid and build a flawless grid for our customers and for the citizens of Michigan,” Jerry Norcia, DTE Energy’s CEO & chairman, said in a 2023 interview with a local electronic news outlet. “They deserve it.”

Norcia added that it would take a decade to build a grid that reaches best-inclass status.

Since MPSC received DTE’s latest rate increase request in late March, the commission is believed to have 10 months to approve or deny the utility compa-

prised with the quality of beautiful homes and condominiums in this area,” James said. “Metro Detroit doesn’t always get the accolades it should, but we have living spaces for sale or lease in price ranges that other areas of the country just can’t match.”

“Detroit and its economy are growing,” McCray said. “And while home prices in Detroit will be on the rise, buyers will still get more bang for their buck in this area compared to other areas across the country.”

of the very fabric of our community, touching generations of families,” Klemet said.  “The dealer community and the auto show are part of what makes Detroit the Motor City. And, I’m thrilled to be a part of an incredible team that, for so long, has showcased our industry, its products and our people. Joining the auto industry at this time of dramatic change, and working with our Southeast Michigan auto dealers, is a great opportunity to make a difference.”

ny’s proposed rate hike.

“This is outrageous,” said a longtime DTE customer in Detroit, who asked to be identified as Miss Angry. “How can they ask for hundreds of millions of dollars to increase the rate, get it, and then turn right back around a few months later and ask for hundreds of millions again? Somebody make sense of that madness because DTE is not reliable or accountable in big or even smaller storms, but we keep paying them more and more.”

“We are committed to modernizing our electric infrastructure to be more reliable, more resilient given increasingly severe weather, while also delivering cleaner energy to meet our aggressive carbon reduction goals and Michigan’s clean energy legislation, consistent with our most recent IRP,” Harris said during the April 25 corporate conference call presentation based on the meeting’s transcripts posted online. “…At DTE, we are focused on continuous improvement and finding ways to improve efficiency in our processes to maintain customer affordability. Based on our recent rate case filing, the forecasted average annual growth of our residential electric bill will likely be less than half the national average…”

On the same corporate call in late April, Norcia was adamant about reinforcing DTE’s ongoing commitment to its customers by providing efficient and reliable utility services. However, DTE’s top executive went a step further when describing the company’s commitment to giving back.

“We continue to invest in the communities where we live and serve,” Norcia said. “DTE invested $2.7 billion with Michigan businesses in 2023, creating and sustaining more than 12,000 jobs across the state. Last year, DTE also invested nearly $1 billion with diverse suppliers and nearly $900 million with companies based in the city of Detroit. We continue to be a leader in driving Michigan’s economy at all levels.”

Why Mental and Physical Health are Interrelated

By Donald James SENIOR WRITER

In the pursuit of overall wellness, a person’s journey must collectively address and achieve effective mental and physical health. While the mind and body are often viewed as separate, the two are actually related, meaning exhibiting good mental health can positively affect one’s physical well-being. Conversely, poor mental health can negatively impact one’s physical stability. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is defined as “a state of psychological, behavioral, and emotional well-being in which an individual realizes his or her abilities to cope with the normal stresses of life.”

Author Collin Mays, in his new book, Losing it for Good…The Ultimate Guide for Men’s Better Health and Wellness, defines physical health as “an individual’s journey to achieving and maintaining his or her entire body and bringing it into a state of efficiency. It involves reaching a fitness level, complete with the ability to be absent from diseases or ward them off through processes in conjunction with one’s mental and physical state and condition.”

their history and environment in this country.

“There are many stressors that impact Black Americans on a daily basis, one of the most deleterious being that of racism,” said Dr. Riana Elyse Anderson, a Fellow at the Hutchins Center for African and African American Research at Harvard University. “Racism, both for Black adults and youth, impacts virtually every element of mental and physical health.”

In many ways, it’s difficult for Black communities not to see and be impacted by the immense spotlight of racism and police brutality. Yet, regardless of the source causing mental challenges, it is always prudent to seek professional help before behaviors worsen and physical health problems surface. However, people of color, particularly African Americans, often do not get the mental help needed because of the social stigma attached.

“Mental and physical health are inseparable,” said Mays. “The two must be the best of friends at all times because they are collectively essential in achieving and maintaining overall health and wellness. Striving for mental and physical health is an ongoing process with a series of actions linked to physical and mental exercises, diet, sleep and rest, and being attentive to what’s going on with one’s mind and body at all times.”

Maintaining a good mental state of mind can help keep an individual healthy and, in many ways, prevent serious physical health conditions. There have been studies that have shown a positive psychological frame of mind can reduce the risks of heart attacks and strokes. A poor mental state of mind can also lead to poor health and harmful behaviors. Case-in-point: Severe depression has been associated with such chronic illnesses as diabetes, asthma, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and more. Equally and unfortunately, suicide is on the rise across America, especially in Black communities, for many reasons.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is the third leading cause of death of Black/African American people between the ages of 15 to 24. For teens, the rise in suicide is linked to many factors, including adverse childhood experiences, domestic violence, financial hardship, losing a parent, and in-person and social media bullying and intimidation.

Yet, there are other mental challenges that many Black Americans face based on

“Culturally, Black people may feel like they must both maintain strength and should not air their dirty laundry’ for others to see,” said Anderson. “And certainly, Black community members not only have less access and quality care for mental health provisions but given the reasonable distrust of health providers from medical abuse, may utilize services less.”

Mays agrees, adding how Black men are often more susceptible to the stigma associated with seeking help for mental/emotional conditions. “Black men may feel as if they must always maintain strength,” Mays said. “In other words, many Black men don’t want to be looked at as weak, not able to ‘Man Up’ to the ever-changing situations of life.”

When making the decision about one’s physical wellness, regular exercise and a balanced diet are major key components. Physical activities can promote a sense of purpose in life and create clearer thinking through a sharper focus and memory. In addition, other ways to sharpen minds are to discover mental exercises such as reading, learning a new hobby, tackling crossword puzzles, or learning a foreign language. Proper sleep and rest are always essential to restoring the mind and body when done consistently.

Seeking medical assessment and treatment is a major step in addressing physical conditions. Locating mental health professionals should be consulted to address mental/emotional circumstances.

Mays, who once weighed 419 pounds before losing a little over 200 pounds, discovered the importance of mental and physical wellness working together when he was in his late 20s. Now in his early 30s, Mays said his book is a guide to help men, especially Black males, realize that the mind and body function as a team to achieve and maintain optimal wellness for life.

Do you suffer from back or neck pain? Trinity Health has the latest methods and technology to help. Our team looks at many treatment options to create a plan that is right for you. From physical therapy and pain management to advanced spine surgery, say goodbye to living with pain. Reach out to the Trinity Health spine program today and get back to enjoying your daily activities.

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Foodie Heaven Returns:

Over 80 Local Eateries Roll Back into Cadillac Square and Woodward Esplanade on May 6

By Amber Ogden STAFF WRITER

The 2024 season of Downtown Street Eats, organized by The Downtown Detroit Partnerships, will make a comeback in Downtown Detroit on May 6, 2024. The food truck rally will have various food options, from Asian to Greek to Mexican. The lineup will be enriched with 20 new food trucks. The location of the event will be Cadillac Square and the Woodward Esplanade, and it will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every weekday until Oct. 10, as well as during special events like the Detroit Grand Prix, Detroit Tree Lighting, headline Concerts, and more.

Downtown Street Eats is a culinary gem created, programmed, and curated by the Ask Jennyfer. Jennyfer Crawford, an entrepreneur who has worked with the Downtown Detroit Partnership for over five years through her Detroit-based Ask Jennyfer brand marketing firm, finds curating the Downtown Streets Eats program immensely rewarding.

“It’s a privilege to provide a platform for small businesses seeking growth The program not only supports veteran food truck operators but also welcomes new food trucks, ensuring fresh and enticing options for lunchtime crowds. It’s a thrill to see the growing enthusiasm for our food truck lineup,” she emphasized.

Downtown Street Eats is a weekly food truck extravaganza that draws in more than 2,500 hungry customers daily. This event continues to attract both new and established trucks, carts, and local restaurant pop-ups, offering multiple lunchtime options that are quick and convenient.

“It’s an exciting and delectable time of year when the various food trucks line the streets. With an increasing number of food trucks joining the roster, Detroiters and visitors are sure to eagerly line up to patronize these small businesses,” said Laura Dean, director of parks and public spaces for the Downtown Detroit Partnership. “We take pride in providing a stage for local food truck entrepreneurs and crafting a lunchtime hotspot that’s truly worth experiencing.”

Visitors are encouraged to explore the various dining options in and around Downtown Detroit Parks, including casual and fine dining experiences. In addition to the Downtown Street Eats program, there are many ways to support the Downtown restaurant and small business community. Whether diners prefer indoor seating or beautiful outdoor patio seating at restaurants like Parc and Lumen, or they opt for carry-out to enjoy in the parks, there are plenty of options. The rolling green lawns at Campus Martius Park, Capitol Park, Beacon Park, and Grand Circus Park offer the perfect setting for a picnic with great city views.

Running with Purpose:

The

Inspiring Journey

of an Elite Marathoner, Coach, and Community Leader

By Xavier Donajkowski CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Earlier this year, a Michigander and elite marathoner raced against 199 of the nation’s best athletes for a spot on the 2024 Olympic Marathon team. He finished the race in two hours and eleven minutes, missing the requisite top-three finish that could have secured him a spot in the 2024 Olympics, but rounding out his third Olympic Marathon Trial with a personal best and a seventh-place finish.

Just a few days later, after a brief recovery period and a few interviews, he was home in Jackson, Michigan preparing to get back to work on what he is most passionate about –coaching his athletes at Jackson High.

Though he has flown under the radar of the general public for the past 10 years, this was far from the first time Nathan Martin has drawn attention in the elite running world. The 34-year-old Three Rivers native has been balancing his day job with nighttime workouts and weekend races while dominating the national 10-mile and marathon scene for nearly a decade. Perhaps most famously, in 2020, Martin raced at the Marathon Project in Chandler, Arizona and finished with a time of two hours, eleven minutes, and five seconds. With this, he became the fastest United States-born African American man to ever race a marathon.

Since then, Martin’s career has continued to grow. He has acquired sponsorships and appeared in interviews by the country’s most popular running magazines and news outlets. He has also been hailed as an up-andcoming star of the elite marathon scene and one of the nation’s most gifted Team USA hopefuls following the 2024 Olympic Trials. Aside from his talent, one of the attributes that sets Martin apart from the hundreds of elite athletes vying for a place on Team USA – and one that is often overlooked – is his unshakable commitment to the development

of youth runners in Jackson, Michigan. Martin’s dedication to Jackson stems from his upbringing. Though he was technically born in Illinois, Martin considers himself a Michigander. He spent his childhood in the town of Three Rivers and ran track and cross-country for Three Rivers High under the leadership of Coach Gene Schroll.

According to Martin, Schroll invested in his athletes and taught them to work as a team. Schroll spotted Martin’s talent as a middle-distance runner, coached him to success at the Michigan state finals, and later introduced him to Dante Ottolini, the coach at Spring Arbor University in Jackson County. Ottolini took Martin on as an athlete on the Spring Arbor Track and Cross-Country teams, where Martin’s talents flourished.

Over his career at Spring Arbor, Martin won nine national titles and eight conference championships. In 2013, as a senior, he became only the second person in history to win both the 10,000-meter run and the marathon at the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) National Championships in Marion, Indiana. Even more remarkably, his marathon time surpassed the 28-year-old National Championship marathon record by two minutes. This finish catapulted Martin into the spotlight just beyond graduation. He returned to Michigan elated, confident in his goal to pursue a professional marathon career and ready to buckle down on his training.

As Martin continued training in Michigan, he took a position as assistant coach with the Jackson High School Cross-Country team. Coaching quickly became Martin’s passion, and he began to plan workouts, training schedules, and races around the Jackson High athletics schedule. He picked up substitute teaching gigs during the day and helped to lead practices after school.

Consistently, often after dark, Martin finished his 12-hour workday with training runs through the city of Jackson. These work-

outs, along with feedback from Coach Ottolini, led Martin to his now-famous finish at the Marathon Project, three Olympic Trials qualifications, a top-10 finish at the prestigious New York Marathon, and a top-four finish at the equally renowned Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, Minnesota.

Martin is now in his fourth year as coach of the Jackson High Cross-Country team –eighth, if you add the time he spent as an assistant. While many of Martin’s competitors are training full-time at high-elevation landscapes in Arizona and Utah, including the top two finishers at the 2024 Olympic Trials, Martin is committed to living his dreams in Jackson.

“My heart’s with coaching,” Martin said in an interview shortly before his February race. “I want to be in a place where I can feel like I’m having a huge impact, and Jackson is that place.”

Martin’s dedication has not escaped the recognition of his athletes. One former student, Chad Perrine Jr., remembers summer workouts that deepened his connection with the city itself.

“Some of my favorite memories come from those summer fun run practices. Every year he’d spend hours designing and setting up his elaborate scavenger hunt competition – buying prizes and writing riddles and then hiding them around town. Then we’d divide into groups and compete for points, trying to decipher all the riddles to win the prizes.”

Perrine went on to describe how this gave him “a feeling of comfortable autonomy” within Jackson.

“I became familiar with my city in a very real and physical way – not from the driver’s seat of a car, but rather from the vantage point of my own two feet. I’ve been away at college for a couple years now, but when I look back on my favorite parts of high school, I find that bunch of them came about

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

Detroit is taking a bold step into the future with the launch of the Affordable Mobility Platform (AMP) electric vehicle carshare, a trailblazing initiative right at the heart of the Eastside Community Network (ECN). This move isn’t just about adding new wheels on the block—it’s Detroit’s ticket into a national push led by the Department of Energy to rethink how we all get around. This is where technology meets tenacity.

One must wonder; ‘why is this important?’

It matters because transportation is the lifeline of any thriving city. When we talk about affordable and sustainable urban mobility, we’re discussing something that touches everyone’s lives—how we get to work, how our kids get to school, and how we access healthcare. It’s about making sure these everyday journeys don’t take a toll on our health or our wallets. Particularly in Detroit, where the legacy of economic disparity and industrial pollution runs deep, shifting towards cleaner, more accessible transport options is not just beneficial—it’s essential.

For the residents of Detroit, and particularly for its Black community, this shift means more than just convenience. It represents empowerment, health, and economic opportunity. It’s a chance to redefine the urban landscape to better serve its citizens, ensuring that progress in one part of the city is felt in all parts. For too long, the benefits of innovation have been unevenly distributed, but with initiatives like the Affordable Mobility Platform, Detroit is setting a standard for inclusivity. It contributes to reducing the environmental impact of traditional gas-powered vehi-

cles, which disproportionately affects urban, lower-income communities through higher levels of air pollution and associated health problems. So, this isn’t just about who cares—it’s about who benefits. And in Detroit’s case, it’s everyone from the single parent needing reliable transport, to the elder looking for a quiet ride to the park, to the young professional aiming to reduce their carbon footprint. Each electric mile driven is a step toward a healthier, more equitable Detroit.

The Eastside Community Network (ECN) has been instrumental in introducing initiatives like the Affordable Mobility Platform (AMP), which directly addresses these issues. By providing low-cost, accessible electric vehicle carsharing, ECN helps bridge the transportation gap that can hinder the full participation of Detroit’s Black residents in the city’s economic and social life. ECN’s efforts in establishing resilience hubs as part of the Resilient Eastside Ini-

tiative show a commitment to comprehensive community development that goes beyond mobility. These hubs serve as critical infrastructure during climate emergencies, further highlighting the interconnectedness of sustainability and accessibility. Moving forward, questions that need to be addressed include how these programs can be expanded and replicated throughout the city, and what additional resources are necessary to ensure their sustainability and effectiveness. In doing so, Detroit can set a precedent for how urban communities can innovate to meet the challenges of modern urban living, making it a crucial highlight for both local and national attention.

“ECN is proud to be a pillar for sustainability in our community and across the city,” said Donna Givens Davidson, CEO of Eastside Community Network. “We are happy to partner with Forth and Mobility Development for the establishment of the Affordable Mobility Platform in Detroit.”

The project kicked off with a community launch event at ECN’s headquarters, highlighting the arrival of two electric vehicles and charging stations. Designed as a membership-based service, the carshare allows users to rent vehicles at an affordable rate—just $5 per hour plus tax, with a one-time $10 registration fee via the MDO Carshare App, available on both Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Forth’s partnership with ECN introduces a significant advancement in making clean transportation accessible. “We’re addressing a systemic problem by partnering with affordable housing developments and local partners such as ECN to pilot a model to benefit all communities. The AMP program will increase access to electric vehicles across

NATHAN MARTIN

Nathan Martin

Nathan Martin

From page B-1

because of the team, and, by extension, the effort and the passion Coach Martin poured into it.”

According to his athletes, Martin is “humble,” “genuine,” and “goofy;” but he is also a leader who expects them to bring their best efforts to each day.

“Coach Martin had a huge impact on me during high school and even more so afterwards,” said Keegan Rumler, former Jackson High runner. “His knowledge of the sport and insight into what it takes to succeed is a very valuable resource. One thing that has stuck with me is the importance of pushing and testing yourself to see what you are capable of. I used this mentality throughout my races in high school and continue to use it with current races.”

For those under his leadership, Martin has served as a living example of what hard work and perseverance can accomplish both on and off the course. Aidan Sova competed in cross country for Jackson High while Martin was an assistant coach, and he later went on to study at the University of Michigan and the University of Pennsylvania. Among other accomplishments, Sova became the youngest-ever Black person elected to any office in Ann Arbor when he was elected to the Ann Arbor District Library Board of Trustees in 2022. Sova said that Martin’s drive for personal improvement

and his commitment to mindset-building and sustained fitness inspired him beyond just high school athletics.

“I’m a better man thanks to his teachings,” Sova said. “Most importantly, [Coach Martin] has served as a model for me as a Black man. It would be a true honor to emulate a fraction of his generosity, work ethic, and poise.”

Martin has confirmed that his goal as a coach is to have a positive impact on students beyond the track and cross-country course.

“I want them to get faster, but really it’s all about helping them get through issues they have in general,” Martin said. “The biggest focus of my coaching style is empowerment,” he continued. “The biggest thing I try to do is ultimately get them to see what it takes to fight to achieve a goal.”

Today, track season at Jackson High is in full swing and Martin is busy coaching a new field of athletes. Meanwhile, he shows no signs of slowing down on the racing front. On March 17, Martin won the Bank of American Chicago Shamrock Shuffle 10-mile, beating out fellow Michigan resident and Olympic Trials competitor Zach Panning. On April 7, he raced at the Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10-miler, finishing in second and besting the previous men’s American 10-mile record along with first-place finisher Hillary Bor. In an Instagram post, Martin’s coach, James McKirdy, expressed Martin’s plan to focus on shorter, faster races over the next few months and hinted at a major race on the horizon.

Martin himself has been quiet about his

future racing plans. However, when asked whether recent career successes have changed his attitude toward coaching at Jackson High, or whether making it to the Olympics would shake his priorities, his answer was loud and clear.

“Coaching is a priority. At the end of the day, I am very aware that I have a finite amount of time to run at the level I am. Making it to the Olympics is not going to come close to my years of coaching and just investing in others. To some people, obviously, it would, but to me it’s just like ‘Hey, cool, I did a thing. Now let’s get back to the thing I truly enjoy.’”

To stay updated on Martin’s journey as a coach and professional athlete, you can follow him on Instagram at @nim_i_am.

Food Truck Rally

Sustainable Mobility

From page B-1 From page B-1

Kickoff Week Lineup

Monday, May 6

Chick A Dee, Lemonade & Beyond, Los Dos Amigos Taco Truck, Smoke Ring, Maad House Tea

Tuesday, May 7

Lemonade & Beyond, Sonny’s Hamburgers, Cousins Maine Lobster, Kabar Catering Sushi Truck, Cynt-Sational Eats, Unity

Thursday, May 9

Detroit’s Original Seafood Truck, Sonny’s Hamburgers, Buffy’s Mexicasian Grill, Curbside Eatery, Poke Ur Way, Smoke Ring

Friday, May 10

Detroit’s Original Seafood Truck, Los Dos Amigos Taco Truck, NuSól Food Buggy, The Main Ingredient

Additional food trucks featured in the coming weeks include favorites such as Big Bo’s

Michigan for BIPOC and lower-income neighborhoods, which typically bear the brunt of transportation emissions, congestion, and noise pollution,” explained Connor Herman, Program Manager at Forth.

The carshare is not just about facilitating daily commutes; it’s also aligned with ECN’s broader sustainability efforts. These include the Resilient Eastside Initiative (REI), dedicated to helping East Side residents prepare for, respond to, and recover from climate-related challenges. This initiative is integral to establishing a network of resilience hubs across Detroit’s Eastside.

Additionally, ECN is rolling out Community Mobility Grants to boost local transportation options. These grants support the creation of mobility hubs that work in tandem with existing resilience hubs, enhancing accessibility and sustainability, and catering to a wide range of transportation needs, from daily errands to emergency situations.

The cars will be conveniently stationed at the rear entrance of the Stoudamire Wellness Hub during operational hours, perfect for running errands, grocery shopping, attending medical appointments, job interviews, and more.

As we look to the horizon, the journey’s just beginning. Forth and Mobility Development are set to roll out more community EV systems, starting with Dreamtroit and River Crest apartments. This move promises to weave eco-friendly transport into the fabric of Detroit’s neighborhoods. It’s about more than access; it’s

Motor City Magic Meets Hoosier Hospitality: A Chick’s Guide to Fort Wayne

By Miss AJ Williams

Hey Girl, Hey! Do you have a weekend free and are itching for a new adventure? Look no further than Fort Wayne, Indiana, a city brimming with charm, history, and a surprisingly vibrant Black community. Buckle up because we’re taking you on a journey that celebrates your melanin and feeds your soul.

First Impressions: Rest and Recharge at The Bradley

Your Fort Wayne experience starts at The Bradley, a swanky boutique hotel that oozes sophisticated luxury. Designed as a tribute to Vera Bradley, the iconic women’s fashion label co-founded by Barbara Bradley Baekgaard, the interior explodes with vibrant colors and playful patterns. Check-in, unwind, and maybe rock a Vera Bradley tote of your own. Feeling peckish? Head straight to Arbor, the hotel’s signature restaurant. With a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and a menu that changes seasonally, prepare to be dazzled. Arbor offers brunch and dinner options, so tailor it to your itinerary.

Take advantage of Birdies, a rooftop bar perched atop The Bradley, for a breathtaking city view.

Sip on expertly crafted cocktails and soak in the panorama as the sun sets over Fort Wayne. It’s the perfect spot to catch up with your girlfriends, share travel stories, and plan your next adventure.

attentive staff make it the perfect spot for a celebratory dinner with your besties.

Culture Fix: Celebrating Black Art and Local Culture

For Us By Us

Fort Wayne takes pride in its rich history, and the Black community plays a significant role in that narrative. Immerse yourselves in the vibrant world of Black art at the Bipoc Incubator & Gallery. This non-profit organization fosters artistic expression and provides space for Black creators to showcase their work. It’s a fantastic opportunity to discover new artists, purchase unique pieces, and connect with the city’s Black cultural heart.

The Glass Wing A visit to the Fort Wayne Museum of Art would only be complete with exploring the Glass Wing. This stunning addition to the museum houses an impressive collection of contemporary glass art, showcasing the works of renowned artists like Dale Chihuly and Lino Tagliapietra. It’s a feast for the eyes and a testament to the power of human creativity.

Foodie Delights: From Soul Food to Contemporary Cuisine

Fort Wayne’s culinary scene is a hidden gem, and Black-owned restaurants are leading the charge. Craving soul food with a modern twist? Head to Elijah’s. Their portions are generous, the flavors are bold, and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Be sure to try their signature Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken – it’s legendary!

For brunch with a contemporary flair, Rune Restaurant is your spot. With a menu that celebrates global flavors and fresh, seasonal ingredients, this vibrant eatery offers a delicious and Instagram-worthy experience.

Evening Entertainment: Blues, Cocktails, and Black Excellence

Fort Wayne’s nightlife caters to every taste, and for a truly unique experience, head to Clyde’s Club Room. This historic venue is a Fort Wayne institution renowned for its live blues music, intimate setting, and expertly crafted cocktails. Sway to the smooth sounds of local blues legends, sip on a classic martini, and let the good times roll.

For a more upscale yet intimate setting, check out Hideout 125. With an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes, their dinner menu is a delight for adventurous palates. The chic ambiance and

Science Geek

If you’re feeling more scientific, take a trip to Science Central. This interactive science museum is a playground for all ages. Spark your inner child with exciting exhibits that cover everything from the human body to the wonders of space exploration. Even an expansive planetarium offers dazzling celestial shows guaranteed to take your breath away.

Beyond the Itinerary: Unexpected Delights

While this guide offers a solid foundation for your Fort Wayne adventure, leave some room for spontaneity! Explore the charming streets of the historic downtown district, lined with independent boutiques and cafes perfect for people-watching. Browse the shelves of Fort Wayne’s independent bookstores, like Canterbury House or Books & Brews, and discover a hidden literary gem.

Remember to embrace Fort Wayne’s green spaces. Head to the expansive trails of the Fort Wayne River Greenway or visit the beautiful gardens at the Foellinger-Freiburger Arboretum for a serene escape from the city bustle. Bonus Tip: If you’re staying in July, try to snag tickets to the Three Rivers Festival, a vibrant celebration of music, art, and cultural diversity. Farewell, Fort Wayne!

As your weekend adventure comes to a close, you’ll leave Fort Wayne feeling refreshed, inspired, and with a newfound appreciation for this hidden gem in the heart of Indiana. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself booking another trip back soon – Fort Wayne has a way of captivating your heart. Remember, these are just a few suggestions – Fort Wayne has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, grab your favorite girls, and get ready to experience Black Girl Magic in Fort Wayne!

WHEREAS the City of Highland Park adopted Ordinance 894.07 on November 9, 1993, which was later superseded by Ordinance 894.11, adopted November 10, 1997 and titled “Manchester Place Residential Development for the Manchester Place I and II authorization of a Payment in Lieu of Taxes or PILOT;” and

WHEREAS, Ordinance 894.11 established and approved an annual Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) at an annual service charge rate of four percent (4%) of annual net shelter rents for the Manchester Place I and II developments, consisting of 144 low-rise multifamily rental housing units and 56 low-rise multifamily rental housing units, which combined provide 200 units of affordable family housing development located at 14350 Second Ave. in the City of Highland Park (“the Development”); and

WHEREAS, at the time of adoption of Ordinance 894.11, the Development was sponsored by the McCormack-Barron Associates, a Delaware corporation, which created two separate ownership partnerships, known as Manchester Place I Limited Dividend Housing Association Limited Partnership and Manchester Place II Limited Dividend Housing

and

WHEREAS, since the adoption of the Ordinance 894.11, certain definitions have

obsolete and require amended language; and

WHEREAS, in 2022, both phases of the Development will be combined and the Development will be refinanced using an allocation of low income housing tax credits from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (the “Authority”) and will be subject of a mortgage loan (the “Mortgage Loan”) from the Authority which will require the conveyance of the Development to Manchester Place Apartments Limited Dividend Housing Association, LLC, as the new owner; and WHEREAS this Amendment to Ordinance 894-11 reaffirms the following Sections: (b) Class of Housing, (d) Contractual Effect of the Ordinance, (e) Payment of Service Charge, (g) Modification or Rescission of Section, (h) Housing Projects Currently Exempt from Taxation and (i) Waiver for PILOT.

NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY OF HIGHLAND PARK ORDAINS:

Ordinance 894-11 is hereby amended as follows:

1. Section (a) is hereby amended as follows:

(a) Offer of Sponsor. The City acknowledges that McCormack-Barron Associates, a Delaware Corporation, has offered MANCHESTER APARTMENTS LIMITED DIVIDEND

HOUSING ASSOCIATION, LLC, A MICHIGAN LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, subject to the receipt of a mortgage loan from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, to construct a THE MORTGAGE LOAN, WILL BE REHABILITATING THE housing development identified KNOWN as Manchester Place APARTMENTS Residential Development on certain property the legal description of which is ATTACHED HERETO AND INCORPROATED BY REFERENCE provided in original Ordinance 1181, passed November 15, 1993, from which this section was derived

In addition, McCormack-Barron Associates MANCHESTER APARTMENTS LIMITED DIVIDEND HOUSING ASSOCIATION, LLC has offered to pay to the City, on account of said housing development, an annual service charge for public service in lieu of all taxes.

2. Section (c) is hereby amended as follows:

(c) Establishment of Annual Service Charge. The housing development identified as Manchester Place Residential Development/McCormack-Barron Associates and the property on which it IS shall be situated shall be exempt from all AD VALOREM property taxes in the tax year following the filing of the certificate and notification NOTIFICATION of eExemption required by Section 15(a)(1) of the Act with the local assessing official. The City, acknowledging that the Manchester Place Residential Development/McCormack-Barron Associates and the Authority have established the economic feasibility of the housing development PROJECT in reliance upon the enactment and continuing effect of this section, the qualification of the housing development PROJECT for exemption from all AD VALOREM property taxes and a payment in lieu of taxes as established herein, and in consideration of the offer by Manchester Place LIMITED DIVIDEND HOUSING ASSOCIATION, LLC Residential Development/McCormack-Barron Associates subject to the receipt of a mMortgage lLoan from the Authority, to construct REHABILITATE, own and operate said housing development PROJECT, hereby agrees to accept payment of an annual service charge for public services in lieu of property taxes. The annual service charge shall be equal to four percent of the difference between cContract rRents actually collected and uUtilities.

3. Section (f) is hereby amended as follows: (f) Duration. This section shall remain in effect and shall not terminate so long as the mMortgage lLoan remains outstanding and unpaid or HUD or the Authority has any interest in the property, which the City understands to be a period of thirty years, provided that construction of the housing development commences within one year from the effective date of this section

4. The remainder of Ordinance 894-11 shall remain unchanged.

5. The City Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to publish this Ordinance within seven (7) days of the date hereof in the Michigan

6.

Cass Community Social Services is soliciting responses to bid specification documents for the abatement of asbestos and lead based paint at a large vacant building.   Project bid information can be requested at ccumcac@aol.com. A mandatory site walk schedule will be included in the bid specifications.   Final bid responses are due by 12:00 PM EDT on Friday, May 31, 2024.

Regional Transit has established a Enterprises (DBE) 2025. This goal neutral participation which reflects the contracts and procurements The proposed goal in accordance regulations 49 CFR The goal and the for inspection from Friday at RTA’s offices 1400, Detroit, Michigan. days following the The RTA will accept date of this notice.

RTA of Southeast 1001 Woodward Detroit, Michigan Or e-mail to: info@rtamichigan.org

nextmug.com.

Endorphin Boost

November 7, 2022. A pre-bid site visit is scheduled for Wednesday, October 25, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. (EST).

Proposals can be accessed on the Bidnet Direct www.bidnetdirect.com//detroit-transportation-corporation

Mike Anderson

Did you know that exercise is one of the best ways to promote happiness? Not only can it be a major confidence booster, it releases endorphins that offer a post-workout bliss. However, many people new to exercise don’t know how to start working out or have questions about doing so safely. If your mom is one of those people, consider gifting her a session with a personal trainer. In one session, the trainer can assess your mom’s current level of fitness and offer her a sensible routine to do on her own. Or, if your mom is social or loves variety, consider getting her a fitness membership to a service like ClassPass. This will allow her to take various types of fitness classes so she can see what style of workout she likes best. Happy Faces on Rotation Sometimes all one needs to smile is a reminder of a happy memory. Upgrade your mom’s photo display game with a digital frame so she can be treated to a slideshow of loved ones anytime she wants. With a model that connects to Wi-Fi, she can easily send photos to the frame through email or via online photo collections. As a thoughtful gesture, consider pre-loading it with some of her favorite family photos. This Mother’s Day, honor your mom with thoughtful and fun gifts that will promote her happiness.

To the qualified Wayne County, that a Public Accuracy that will be

Matt Elliott President, Bank of America Detroit