The Chronicle News No. 7 June 09 -June 15, 2022

A Native Son ReturnsHarrell Holmes Jr.

“Ain’t too Proud” at Wharton Center

There aren’t very many times in our lives that the stars perfectly align; that a proclamation we make as a kid is realized in adulthood. If that was the case, I would be in New York, NY… living in the sewers, lawyering and making music by day; eating pizza and fighting the Foot Clan by night. Harrell

The Queen Speaks! A Conversation with Laure’ Pen “The Jingle Queen”

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“Lyft, they don’t have one, and they started in Atlanta, which is near and dear to my heart.”

Matthew Thornton Story

Laur’e Pen shares-we listen! I caught up with the rising star for news on her upcoming 3rd album, Super Ho: Don’t Play with God… and for a little fun, forming her ‘perfect fantasy band’ lineup.

Laur’e Pen will use the life and experiences of her alter ego Lauren Watson to spread her message. With heavy influences from legends like Lauryn Hill and Toni Braxton, she delves deep into relationship woes, and so much more of her life.

Check out her single Poison Pt. 2: Dumb Dial https://youtu.be/

Holmes Jr. first saw “The Five Heartbeats’ and knew, at just 8 years old -that he was going to be a Temptation.

“I wanted to be Ruffin. My voice was a lot higher then.” Holmes said.

Not only did the Temptations’

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Laur’e: “I’ve dated men and women. Overcome domestic abuse, sex trafficking with a married couple, drug and alcohol abuse, and a few neardeath experiences. All of this to come out on the other side to walk a righteous path. I plan on sharing all of this as my testimony on this album.”

Me: “If you could travel in time and put together the perfect band like Bill and Ted, who would be in it?”

movie start his singing journey, but his enthusiasm also gave way to a group called the ‘Little Temptations’, who performed in and around his hometown of Saginaw, MI. One of his fondest memories, (outside of music) was playing AAU basketball when Draymond Green was coming up.

Read more ............ page 3

Seizing the Opportunity, Maya James becomes an Opportunity Arts Affiliate

Maya James is an artist, writer, creator, dancer, tarot reader and activist based in the Kalamazoo, Michigan area. Her works center around feminism, anti-racism, socialism and her experience as a cross-cultural black American from a racially hostile town in Northern Michigan. As a young freelance journalist, James’ works were featured in the New York Times Race/Related, USA Today College, and YR Media about controversial issues like the Flint Water Crisis and hate crimes growing up in her hometown. She has been on countless news syndicates for work she did on a particular socialist political campaign and had multiple interviews for different media publications like Rose from Concrete with Justin Black, WIDR, and IPR

stations across Michigan. She also did an episode of RISK.

As an artist, Maya’s works have been exhibited during Artprize 2018 at the Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archives (which won best juried venue) and 2021 at the Fountain Street Church and a sponsored mural in Calder

Plaza, the Dennos Museum, the Black Arts and Cultural Center and the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo. Maya was the first black female recipient of the National Arab American Museum City Hall Art Space Residency in 2019, and she has been a speaker at numerous events on the importance of

Laur’e: “Jimi Hendrix on guitar, Read more ............ page 3 Read more

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Courtesy Photo-Harrell Holmes Jr.

Courtesy Photo-Maya James with her art

Courtesy Photo-Lauren Watson also known as -Laur’e Pen “The Jingle Queen”

Quincy Jones Composed the Theme Song for the Popular 70’s “Sanford and Son” TV Sitcom with Redd Foxx

As one of history’s most influential record producers, Quincy Jones has decades of experience under his belt. In fact, Jones is one of the first African Americans to sit as a top executive of a major American record label. His stature isn’t without foundation, however.

Jones was born in Chicago and grew up studying music at what is now the Berklee College of Music. According to Britannica, Jones freelanced for some time, meeting new talents and old. In 1961, Jones became a vice president at Mercury Records.

After working as an A&R for some time, Jones made

history time and time again by producing music that’s flooded airwaves since. According to Achievement.org, Jones even wrote theme songs for shows such as Sanford & Son, Ironside, and The Bill Cosby Show.

Now, Jones has one of the biggest names in the music industry, with 75 Grammy Award nominations, seven Academy Awards, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013. Jones’ radio hits also include songs from Michael Jackson’s Thriller and Bad.

Source-blackhistory.com

black liberation in arts and media. In college, Maya studied African American Studies and Political Science. One of the first shows she did as a career artist was with Daniel Belardinelli in 2017. Maya is the author and illustrator of Maamoul Press’s graphic novel “LUKUMI”, a story of the importance of black female solidarity and friendship and Afro-Atlantic faith. She is also a teaching artist in the Education for the Arts Program in Kalamazoo Public Schools with KRESA (Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency).

Maya is the muralist behind “Faces”, a depiction of 94 faces of police violence and mob brutality permanently installed on the side of J-Bird Vintage in the Vine Neighborhood of Kalamazoo, Michigan, and the fence mural on the Ferraro fence on Davis Street in the Vine Neighborhood. Her work has been featured in numerous articles in the southwest Michigan area and she has shown at many Art Hops, galleries and local businesses in her area. Maya also created “Faces, Pt. II”, a collection of portraits of black women throughout time who changed history as we know it, along with a key with all the accolades of their achievements and the obstacles they faced in their lives to achieve positive

Shawn Turner named as WKAR Public Media interim general manager

EAST LANSING, MI; May 2, 2022 -- Shawn Turner has been selected to serve as interim general manager and director of broadcasting at WKAR Public Media at Michigan State University. Turner is a professor of practice in the College of Communication Arts and Sciences at MSU and a national security communication analyst for CNN.

Susi Elkins, current general manager and director of broadcasting at WKAR, announced recently that she is leaving the public broadcasting station at the end of May. Elkins has accepted a position at Michigan State University Federal Credit Union, headquartered in East Lansing, Michigan.

As interim general manager and director of broadcasting, Turner will work with WKAR senior leadership to move forward with the strategic plan, strategic priorities, and the upcoming, yearlong Century of Service celebration that Susi Elkins and the collective WKAR leadership team have set in place.

Turner is an expert in communication leadership, strategy, and crisis management, having served in communication leadership roles with governmental, private sector, and non-profit organizations.

“Shawn is a nationally recognized expert on national security who is regularly featured on CNN.

change as a sponsored artist in Artprize 2021 in Calder Plaza. Maya is currently working on the third part of her “Faces” series, a collection of QTBIPOC both alive and passed who are still changing the world for the better and she is accepting nominations of QTBIPOC from across the Southwest Michigan area who have changed people’s lives. For this project, she is partnering with the Rootead (nonprofit) QTBIPOC branch Radicle and Outfront Kalamazoo. Maya has also been reading tarot since the age of seven and is creating a tarot deck called the Black Taurus Rider Waite (aka The James-Smith-Rider-Waite deck), featuring QTBIPOC and intersectional characters as a progressive alternative to the colonial leaning Rider-Waite tarot.

As a daughter of the incredible black renaissance creative Rufus Snoddy, a founding member of the Black Arts

Movement in Los Angeles, Maya has had a lifetime of apprenticeship that most artists would pay thousands for. Maya & her father’s art is the family business and their sole trade. Maya’s dad has painted the walls for many exclusive Los Angeles clients in the 1980s. In her free time, Maya James organizes community events for black liberation, like the Juneteenth Celebration with the Vine Neighborhood Association she founded, several marches for George Floyd, and ABOLISH ICE. She considers herself a soldier for abolition, antiracism, feminism and freedom unapologetically, and at the same time.

With his experience in broadcasting, communication leadership and strategy, he is the ideal person to lead WKAR through this transition,” said Prabu David, dean of the College of Communication Arts and Sciences. “Besides, Shawn is known to our mid-Michigan and Spartan communities for anchoring a television program and moderating conversations with MSU President Stanley during the early days of the pandemic.”

“It is an immense honor to be selected to serve as interim general manager,” Turner said.

“Under Susi’s leadership, the team at WKAR has worked tirelessly to develop and deliver

quality programming that really connects with viewers and listeners. I’m looking forward to supporting and advancing the great work that is already under way as we continue to serve the WKAR community.”

Turner’s appointment takes effect immediately. To assure a smooth transition, he will work alongside Elkins through her last day at WKAR on May 27. A national search will be conducted in the year ahead to fill the role of general manager

and director of broadcasting for WKAR at Michigan State University.

Turner has been an on-air analyst at CNN since 2018. From March through May 2020, Turner served as host of the WKAR original television series, COVID-19: Answers and Insights. The public affairs special series provided Michiganders with critical and timely information through the early days of the COVID public health crisis. Read

Courtesy Photo-Maya James

Courtesy Photo-Shawn Turner, incoming WKAR Public Media interim general manager and director of broadcasting

At age 12, he competed as a singer on the ‘Star Search’ variety show and recalls with fondness visiting the Motown Museum for motivation.

Beforehand. “I haven’t had a chance to go back since then… I really want to revisit.”

The Star Search debut opened important doors in the music industry. The Holmes family moved to California, where Harrell was awarded scholarships from Motown and Stevie Wonder to attend a prestigious Hollywood Pop Academy. He even had the privilege to sing with the legend himself!

Completing his triple threat education with AMDA College of Performing Arts in Los Angeles, Holmes continued to hone his talents singing on

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American Idol, and with bands in the LA area. “ Maxwell’s ‘A Woman’s Worth’ is my favorite song to perform,” he shares.

In 2018 a friend took him to a show of ‘Ain’t Too Proud’ for his birthday - before its Broadway opening. “

I was completely blown away by the show!” he shares, the excitement evident in his recall.

Harrell’s agent reached out with an opportunity in September 2019 for a private audition to fulfill his lifelong dream - performing as a Temptation. In October 2019, Holmes was called back to New York, getting him closer to becoming a Temptation, when March 2020 hit with COVID protocols, bringing production

to a hard stop. “I was living the struggling artist life; Working security and performing corporate events on the weekends to keep myself available and continuing to train.”

As the world opened back up, so did production for “Ain’t Too Proud.” Now, adult Harrell is living out what little Harrell paved the way for! He portrays Melvin Franklin, the deep voice that ties all the harmonies together for the iconic group.

“We have a lot of similarities. He had a deep love and respect for his mom. So much so, that he asked for permission before joining the group. I can definitely relate. Performing was his life, just like it’s mine. He stayed on stage until he

physically couldn’t.” Franklin continued as a Temptation through the nineties(1960-1994) as one of the original two bandmates that stayed touring. He passed from heart failure at age 52 in February 1995.

Coming back to Michigan to play as a Temptation is the definition of a full circle.

“Looking forward to performing at MSU. My mom graduated from there. Also, family and friends that have never seen me on stage…it’s going to be a great time!”

Don’t miss Harrell and the rest of the cast of the Tony Awardwinning show “Ain’t Too Proud” when they grace the Wharton stage from June 7th to June 12th.

One of the best things about our community is the number of different cultures that live in our neighborhoods. We are lucky to be able to experience an array of traditions, customs and lifestyles.

At Palmer, Bush & Jensen, we understand and offer services for all cultures. We know our differences are what make us unique.

Stevie on piano, Prince as my bass player. You’ll have to come back to me on the drummer…”

Me: “What type of music would you make?”

Laur’e: “With the sort of lineup, it would probably be more R&B or Rock. Definitely something with a message.”

Me: “Did you figure out who you would want as your drummer?”

Laur’e: “LOL, not yet… I’ve got it narrowed down to two.”

Me: “Aye, progress, LOL! What about a company that you would want to write a jingle for?”

Laur’e: “Lyft, they don’t have one, and they started in Atlanta, which is near and dear to my heart.”

Now, back in the Midwest from her 2nd home, Pen speaks

about attending MSU for a major in Digital Storytelling that can partner with her sound engineering credentials.

Laur’e: “I want to build a multimedia company. My fiancé got me into digital storytelling, showing me green screen effects. He’s a visual artist with animation.”

Me: “Nice, so you bring the sound, and he brings the

visuals. Guess what time it is?

Do you have the final piece for your band?”

Laur’e: “LOL, I do! I’m going with Sheila E. Gotta have her represent for the ladies.”

Me: “Nice, you went heavy with the Revolution I see, LOL.”

Any other pieces you would want to add to your dream team?”

Laur’e: “Well… I can’t call them backup singers. More like coworkers, but in a perfect world, I would have Luther and Aretha with me.” To my heart, I’m oldschool.”

For more of Laur’e Pen’s work, check out https://laurepen. com.

Courtesy Photo- Cast member’s Performance of “Ain’t Too Proud”

Turner’s previous positions in government include deputy White House press secretary for national security; director of communication for U.S. national intelligence at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI); and deputy press secretary for foreign affairs for the National Security Council (NSC). As a senior intelligence officer, Shawn was responsible for coordinating all internal and external communication on behalf of the 17 agencies and components that make up the U.S. intelligence community. At the White House and the NSC, Shawn was a principal spokesperson for U.S. foreign policy in Afghanistan and Pakistan and helped develop the U.S. government’s approach to communicating intelligence reform in 2014.

Other recognitions throughout Turner’s career include being named one of Washington

D.C.’s top decision makers by the National Journal in 2013 and being awarded the Intelligence Community Leadership Award in 2015. In 2016, he was awarded the Meritorious Presidential Rank Award for outstanding career accomplishments and exemplary service to the nation.

Turner has published articles in USA TODAY, Newsweek, Spectra, and on CNN.com. He has also authored book chapters on risk communication for national defense and information-processing and cognitive theories.

Prior to his civilian career, Shawn served 21 years in the United States Marine Corps. He received his B.A. degree in communication studies from Texas State University and an M.A. degree in communication from George Mason University.

Both OB-GYNs and primary care doctors can provide services for women including annual physical exams, prescribing birth control, treating vaginal and urinary tract infections, and performing other health screenings. But what type of doctor should a woman have? The main difference lies in expertise and focus.

OB-GYNs are obstetricians and gynecologists specializing in all aspects of women’s health.

OB-GYNs provide pregnancy, reproductive health, breast health, and other preventative care. They also specialize in women’s health-related conditions including heavy periods and infertility.

“OB-GYNs focus on women’s

Women’s health: Should you have an OB-GYN, primary care doctor, or both?

health specific to changes in women’s bodies that occur as you get older, from childbearing stage to menopause,” said Laura Kota, MD, OB-GYN at McLaren Greater Lansing –Okemos Women’s Health. “OBGYNs can also serve as a primary care provider for healthy women who aren’t on many medications or don’t have chronic medical conditions.” Women who are wanting to get pregnant or are pregnant can benefit from an OB-GYN as they address any healthrelated concerns for both you and your baby and monitor the pregnancy from preconception to post birth. OB-GYNs also can provide continued care as women age and go through menopause.

Primary care doctors diagnose and treat a range of conditions and look at your overall health. If you’re in need of everyday

care to maintain or treat acute illnesses and diseases, you may want to visit a primary care doctor. A visit with your family or internal medicine doctor is different than a women’s wellness visit because you will discuss your overall health and lifestyle. This includes diet, exercise, and your family medical history and conditions such as asthma, high blood pressure, and cholesterol. Primary care providers may also refer patients to other subspecialists and coordinate care for chronic conditions, like diabetes.

“Each has their own role in your health and can address the concerns you may have,” said Dr. Kota. “The important thing is to consistently schedule your wellness exams and tests yearly so we can catch issues quickly and start treatment right away.”

Dr. Kota said annual exams

can show early signs of cancer including breast and cervical cancers (HPV), ovarian cysts, and infections. Whether you decide to see an OB-GYN or primary care provider (or both), women starting at the age of 20 should have a yearly pelvic and breast exam done, screenings for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and a PAP test (every three years). Women over 40 years old should begin yearly mammograms as well.

Depending on your health care needs and family history, you should talk to your doctor about any medical conditions or concerns you have – whether they’re about reproductive or overall health − to decide what’s best for you.

has been on the side of justice for many years. He has long worked for positive change in the judicial system. Torchio now feels that the time has come to seek election to the Washtenaw County District Court and Torchio will bring fresh ideas and positive solutions to the Washtenaw County court system by running for Judge in the 14A District.

Torchio has always been committed to helping the community and our citizens in need whether it was by aiding in the being of the Mental Health Court, creating the City of Flint’s Blight Court, or co-creating the Homelessness Court. Attorney Feaster has done whatever he can to improve communities and aid its citizens who are the most in need. Attorney Feaster is a servant leader and that is the kind of person we need to lead our community and move our society forward.

Courtesy Photo-McLaren OB-GYN Dr Laura J. Kota M.D.