The Chronicle News No. 5 May 01 -May 15, 2022

“An

Evening of Royalty” Presented by the S.M.A.C.K. Show

How does the term ‘Alpha Male’ speak to you? Historically, my thoughts have conjured images of Bros pounding protein powder shakes and pumping iron, businessmen yelling over one another in attempts to assert dominance in the

boardroom, and unlimited access to media and real-life illustrations showcasing toxic masculinity in a lead role. Enter WalkWorthy’s ‘An Evening of Royalty’ event on 4.16.22 at the Lansing Mall… to showcase the strength, confidence and success behind the ‘Alpha male’ persona, as well as illuminate a

CAHP Breaks Ground on Three Affordable SingleFamily Homes

LANSING, Mich. - Capital Area Housing Partnership held a groundbreaking ceremony Thursday, celebrating the start of construction on three affordable single-family houses in Lansing. Once completed, the properties will become available for purchase to income-qualified first-time homebuyers.

Capital Area Housing Partnership, a local nonprofit,

is spearheading the developments. Its mission is to revitalize neighborhoods by building quality affordable housing opportunities and helping mid-Michigan residents achieve financial selfsufficiency.

The 1,200-square-foot homes come with three bedrooms and 1 1/2 bathrooms. They are constructed to high energyefficiency standards and

powerful lesson about my own assumptions. Protein shakes and popularity contests were not present backstage, but rather thoughtful conversation about topics of fatherhood, past life experiences, plant-based diets and life’s reflections dominating the attention of my

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Introducing Laur’e Pen the Jingle Queen

“I just want to be great at what I do, forever humble. I always wanted to make innovative music, changing the course of music today.”

Lauren Watson is an infectious young personality, with a knack for walking to the beat of her very own drum. She is a sound designer, songwriter, and singer. She grew up being inspired by many of the twentieth century’s recording artists like Lauryn Hill, Black Eye Peas, Beyonce, Frankie Beverly, Curtis Jackson, Michael Jackson, and James Brown to name a few. But Lauren is definitely a product of the twenty-first century.

She was born and raised in the mid-west region of Columbus, Ohio. She found out she had a talent for singing at the age of 13 but didn’t really start getting serious about her craft until a few years later. It was throughout her exploration of singing; she found a passion for sound design and creative writing (Jingles). The idea of Foley and ADR effects came naturally as she was always interested in creating and

Courtesy Photo-The S.M.A.C.K Show Hosts chat during event

Courtesy Photo-Capital Area Housing Partnership at Groundbreaking Ceremony 4-28-2022

Courtesy Photo-Laur’e Pen

The Fair-Skinned Black Actress Who Refused to ‘Pass’ in 1930s Hollywood

When Duke Ellington and his band toured the segregated South in the early 1930s, they encountered racism wherever they went. A gorgeous Black performer also traveled with the band—Frederika “Fredi” Washington. Lithe and light-skinned, she was pale enough to “pass” as white in the color-obsessed South, and during the tour she took advantage of her skin color to slip into whitesonly ice cream parlors and buy ice cream for the entire band.

Washington may have used her skin color to procure cool treats on the road, but she refused to use it for economic or social gain. During a time of harsh segregation and overwhelming bias against African Americans, she embraced her heritage. And while other actresses of Hollywood’s Golden Age like Merle Oberon (who was Anglo-Indian) and Rita Hayworth (who was Spanish-American) hid their features as the price of admission to white Hollywood, Washington refused to hide behind her light skin.

Born in Savannah, Georgia, Washington moved to Harlem along with her family during the Great Migration, when Black families fled the Jim Crow South in search of new opportunities in Northern cities. The daughter of a postal worker and a dancer, Washington had green eyes and light skin that belied the era’s common expectations of what an African-American “looked like.”

Washington knew that regardless of her looks, the era’s construction

At the time, Black actors had few opportunities in Hollywood. The majority of Black people on film could be seen only in “race films” designed for all-Black audiences. Those who did break in to movies for white audiences were relegated to subservient or stereotypical roles.

Peola’s struggle to accept herself as a poignant cry for equality. As historian Anna Everett writes, white audiences saw Peola’s story as a Black person’s struggle to be white; Black audiences, on the other hand, saw it as the rebellion of a Black woman trying to gain the privileges only given to white people.

of Black race as belonging to anyone who had even a drop of Black heritage meant she would always be considered AfricanAmerican by white audiences… unless she simply “passed” as white.

Racial “passing” allowed Black Americans to sidestep racism faced by Black people and claim the privilege of whiteness in public spaces. The practice, writes historian Robert Fikes, Jr., was “seen by many African Americans as a way of outwitting the system of oppression and making laughable fools of those who countenanced notions of white racial purity and supremacy.” But it also alienated people from others of their culture. A Black woman who passed might be considered white, but she ran the constant risk of losing her privilege once it was discovered she was really Black—and of being shunned by Black people once they learned she was claiming whiteness.

Instead of turning her back on her race, Washington reveled in it. She immersed herself in the growing Harlem Renaissance, during which her neighborhood turned into a cultural oasis and a hotbed of African-Americans artistic production. Already a talented singer and dancer, she became a chorus girl, then an actress, traveling to Europe and starring in stage productions in New York. She also performed with Duke Ellington’s band and had an affair with the married musician.

But Washington broke through that barrier in Imitation of Life— ironically, in a film that explored the practice of “passing” that she had declined to adopt in her own life. In 1934, she played the role of Peola, the daughter of a Black housekeeper (Louise Beavers) whose life is closely intertwined with that of a white widow and her daughter. Peola turns her back on her mother, who dies a dramatic death brought on by her life of self-abnegation and sorrow over her daughter’s betrayal.

The film—and Washington— became an enormous hit within the Black community, in part because of how it was marketed. As historian Miriam J. Petty writes in Stealing the Show: African American Performers and Audiences in 1930s Hollywood, both Washington and Beavers were heavily featured in an unprecedented special trailer that ran in segregated movie houses. By acknowledging Black audiences— even to sell them something—

Ironically, though, Washington’s breakthrough role cut short her acting career. She became so identified with Peola that it was hard for her to get other roles. Since white Hollywood refused to cast Black women in romantic roles, she couldn’t get leading roles; since her skin was so light many identified her as white, she couldn’t get more stereotypical roles as maids. She made her last movie appearance just three years after Imitation of Life.

Her career wasn’t done yet, though. In 1937, Washington helped found what would become the Negro Actors Guild of America, a group that advocated for less stereotypical roles and better working conditions for Black actors. She also became a drama critic, writing theatrical reviews for African American newspapers,

The movie, which starred Claudette Colbert as the white friend, dealt frankly with interracial identity, passing, and the similarities and differences between Black and white women—themes that had never been thoroughly explored in mainstream Hollywood. And, unlike all films for white audiences that came before it, it essentially treated the stories of its Black and white characters as equally important.

This was enormously significant to Black audiences, who saw

Universal gave an implicit nod to a group of people who were not used to seeing any kind of representation on film, much less an emotional exploration of racial politics and “passing.”

“Black moviegoers watched, claimed, and interpreted these African Americans in ways that made the most of Imitation’s resonance with critical currents and tensions circulating within Black communities at the time,” Petty writes.

and served as a casting consultant for films and theatrical productions that concerned race.

“Early in my career,” she told the Chicago Defender in 1945, “it was suggested that I might get further by passing as French or something exotic. But to pass, for economic or other advantages, would have meant that I swallowed, whole hog, the idea of Black inferiority.”

Source: https://www.history.com/

Fredi Washington, 1937. John D. Kisch/Separate Cinema Archive/Getty Images

A scene from the 1934 film “Imitation of Life,” featuring Louise Beavers and Fredi Washington. Bettmann Archive/Getty Images

fellow WalkWorthy models. I saw a taste of the full spectrum of the meaning behind ‘Alpha Male’; felt the power and pride of being part of an incredible group. The scene was certainly set for a crowning with regal decor, thrones, media and runway featuring additional local designers like Walter Dodd’s ‘Jesus and Me’ Clothing and DMB. Live performers Caleb, Dara aka Reesey, Worship

We

Without Words, Knowdoz, The Lord’s Lyricist and Spoken Praise took the stage.

The inspiration behind the fashion show arose when Worthy and his 12-year-old son, Lemuel, were guests on the S.M.A.C.K show.

“WalkWorthy Menswear has been outfitting gentlemen to the Ts for 8 years, but you get more than a suit. “This is my ministry. Men come for a suit and get much more.” He adds.

“You have to WalkWorthy on the inside before you can show it on the outside, to have open discussions about life and being a positive male influence as a husband, father, entrepreneur and believer in the word.” Personally, I am extremely grateful for his impeccable eye and ability to help a man realize his best self.

This was an ideal free venue for the whole family! The city

needs as much positivity as it can get, and through continued collaboration and public support we hope to have more events like this. Massive thanks go out to the S.M.A.C.K Show and WalkWorthy Menswear for allowing writers, businessmen, students, philanthropists, and preachers; men from all walks of life to walk worthy in their finest attire at this outstanding event. Stay tuned! Plans for next year’s show are already

in the works. WalkWorthy is also planning the 2nd annual Lansing “Capitol Mens’ Flash Mob” in September 2022, with a conference to follow. Visit @Mr_Walkworthy and The SMACK Show’ on Facebook for more info.

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.

include modern amenities such as an open layout and stainless-steel appliances. Two will be built near the Old Oakland neighborhood on the west side, and the other will be built in the Lansing Eaton neighborhood on the south side.

“The current housing market has been especially tough for aspiring first-time homeowners due to the shortage of attainable housing options in our area,” said Rawley Van Fossen, executive director of Capital Area Housing Partnership. “Part of

our solution is to infill vacant lots in the city and provide inclusive and equitable opportunities for residents working to realize their dream of homeownership.”

Since 2020, Capital Area Housing Partnership has invested nearly $3 million to construct 11 singlefamily homes in the city.

The developments are made possible through a mix of funding sources, including HOME Investment Partnerships grant funding awarded to the City of Lansing annually from the Department of Housing

and Urban Development and charitable donations received by Capital Area Housing Partnership from the community.

“This is community-supported development for Lansing at its finest,” said Mayor Schor. “Investments in our housing stock are essential to our economic vibrancy and enhance the quality of life in our neighborhoods and for our residents.”

Construction is slated for completion this September.

Capital Area Housing Partnership will list the homes for sale at their appraised value and offer up to $10,000 in down payment assistance to help eligible homebuyers bridge

How do Credit Unions and Banks Differ – and how are they similar?

By Deidre Davis, MSU Federal Credit Union Chief Marketing Officer

When choosing a financial institution, there are many options available, so it’s important to consider a variety of factors, as well as your personal preferences. Banks and credit unions may look similar on the surface, but knowing a few key differences can help you make the right decision for your specific situation and goals.

A credit union is a not-for-profit cooperative financial institution owned by its members. Credit unions are cooperatives, meaning that one member’s savings becomes another member’s loan. Also, credit unions typically serve groups that share a common bond such as where they work, the community theynlive in, their faith, or their membership in another organization. Like banks, credit unions accept deposits, make loans, and provide a wide array of other financial services. In contrast to a bank however, credit unions

are not-for-profit institutions owned by their members. This means that a creditvunion’s “profits” go back to members in the form of lower loan rates, higher savings rates, and nofee or lower fee services.

Also, like banks, credit unions are insured. Most banks are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) whereas most credit unions are insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA).

When you open an account at MSUFCU, you become an owner-member of the Credit Union. We offer free checking accounts, auto and home loans, credit cards, savings products, business loans, and much more. Our member-owned Credit Union also supports many local organizations that support those in our community. Visit msufcu.org or an MSUFCU branch near you to experience the Credit Union difference.

Achieve Financial Freedom with an MSUFCU SmartLineSM Home Equity Loan

MSUFCU’s SmartLine Home Equity Loan helps you budget for and fund large expenses while saving money. It’s like having two loans in one — a line of credit with a variable rate that replenishes when payments are made, and an option for a fixed-rate loan with the same payment throughout the loan term. Open your SmartLine today! msufcu.org/smartline

implementing innovative sounds to contribute to the uniqueness of her music and visual content.

Lauren aka Laur’e Pen got her name from her alter ego. “Laur’e” which is sexy, and confident, and “Pen”, is notable for her songwriting mastery that she has developed over time. Laur’e has always been the unique one and that bled into her craft through constant experimentation with her music, striving to create new and progressive sounds.

Lauren is a multi-genre creative broadening her appeal to a mass following. But if you had to categorize her I wouldn’t try. It’s like trying to categorize Miracle Whip, Kleenex, the

Platypus, and Prince. She is what she is and she does it like she does it...

Lauren stands out from the other artists because she is multi-gifted, and she thinks outside the box. This makes her more of a jewel than a ruff cut stone. She is ever-evolving and reaching for her higher “PENness”.

Lauren, with her production and engineering skills, now resides and works with other artists in the Atlanta area, which she finds the experience inspiring, fun-filled and educational.

Lauren is currently working on her third musical project, and various sound design projects, in an effort to continue to sharpen her “Penmanship”.

LAFCU to offer ATM service in all 27 Quality Dairy stores

LANSING, Mich. — LAFCU ATM service will soon be available in all 27 Quality Dairy Store locations in Greater Lansing. Transition to LAFCU ATMs will begin early May.

There will be no change to ATM fees or usability. LAFCU members and members of other credit unions that are part of the Co-op ATM Network will not incur transaction fees. For others, the fee depends upon their financial institution.

Partnership of the iconic midMichigan companies brings together two entities that have each built value and trust within the community for over 86 years — both were founded in 1936.

“Separately, Quality Dairy and LAFCU have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to provide quality service to mid-Michigan residents,” said Ken Martin, Quality Dairy CEO. “Together we are doubling down on local service from two local companies. Our customers will be well served by LAFCU.

Martin lightheartedly noted that the partners also have a shared interest in cows. LAFCU’s first loan was for a member to buy a cow. Quality Dairy’s original mission was to provide bottled milk and cream from small neighborhood milk stores at a time when these items were typically delivered to the home.

For LAFCU CEO Patrick Spyke the partnership means immediate expanded service to the credit union’s 70,000 members, many of whom reside in Greater Lansing.

Spyke said, “Placing an additional 27 ATMs within the community increases convenience for LAFCU members to get cash on the go or to quickly make deposits. It’s also an opportunity to serve a broader audience and support a valuable local business.”

The partnership brings added value to LAFCU members. In addition to exclusive weekly specials on QD items, LAFCU members will be eligible for a loyalty card that offers a 5-cent per gallon discount on gasoline at the seven Quality Dairy Exxon Mobil Fuel stores — five in Lansing, and one each in Charlotte and Eaton Rapids.

The loyalty cards will be available to members at LAFCU branches beginning early June.

Quality Dairy will continue to honor gas cards previously distributed.

Both companies have grown and adjusted with the times over the years.

With approximately 525 employees, Quality Dairy is one of the region’s largest privateindustry employers and one of the few that remains familyowned.

LAFCU now serves more

than 70,000 individuals and businesses across the state, holds over $950 million in assets, and has about 150 employees.

Quality Dairy continues to offer dairy options — milk and ice cream — but is also known for fresh foods, such as sandwiches and donuts, and marquee brand beverages, snacks, grocery items and household supplies. The company is among the largest producers of paczki in the state, and the recipe for its popular French Onion Chip Dip hasn’t changed in at least 50 years. Some QD stores also offer gasoline, and some offer a laundromat. Online ordering is now available for even greater convenience with home delivery available in most areas. The model to which stores are transitioning include an eat-in patio and drive-thru window.

Today LAFCU offers a comprehensive range of financial products and services, supported by an expanding complement of financial technology solutions. The credit union’s programs have earned national and international excellence awards. In Michigan, LAFCU has won the state’s credit union trade association annual Innovative Award four times in seven years. And LAFCU was recognized as one of the 50 Best Credit Unions to Work For in 2020 for its positive

workplace culture.

More information and FAQs about the LAFCU-Quality Dairy partnership are at www. LAFCU.com/QualityDairy and www.QualityDairy.com/v15/ LAFCU.

About Quality Dairy Quality Dairy Company was founded in 1936 by Gregory J. Martin and Harvey Mack, with the first store located at 1406 S. Washington Ave., Lansing, Michigan. Although many years have passed since opening that first location, Quality Dairy still aims to provide the freshest dairy and baked goods for its customers.

There are 27 Quality Dairy Store locations throughout Greater Lansing. All sell beer and wine, and 16 locations sell packaged liquor. Seven locations offer Exxon Mobil gasoline, and six stores have laundromats. Quality Dairy also operates QD Central — QD’s production and distribution hub for all QD freshly made bakery, deli and dairy products.

The Quality Dairy team is proud to have been part of the Lansing community for over 86 years

and looks forward to growing the company alongside Greater Lansing for many years to come. More information is at www. qualitydairy.com.

About LAFCU Chartered in 1936, LAFCU is a notfor-profit financial cooperative open for membership to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Michigan and to businesses and other entities located in Michigan. The credit union serves more than 70,000 members and holds over $950 million in assets. It was named a Best Credit Union to Work For in 2020. LAFCU offers a comprehensive range of financial products and services as well as an expanding complement of financial technology solutions. Members enjoy benefits such as low fees, low interest rates on loans, high yields on savings, discounts, knowledgeable employees and nationwide access to fee-free ATMs. A recipient of the national Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Community Service Award for credit unions, LAFCU enriches the communities it serves by supporting many organizations and causes. To learn more about LAFCU, call 800.748.0228 or visit www.lafcu.com.

Courtesy Photo-LAFCU CEO Patrick Spyke with LAFF-E the Cow, the credit union’s mascot that pays homage to the purpose of LAFCU’s first loan in 1936, which was to purchase a cow.

A Guide to Moving with Children Who Have Autism

By Claire Bough

Moving becomes a part of our lives at many different stages: When we move away from our parents, relocate for a job opportunity, or find somewhere new to retire. No matter your circumstances, it can be a stressful process. And if you’re moving with a child with autism, it’s especially important to help relieve moving stress for both you and your kid.

It’s easier said than done but relocating with a child with autism — and limiting stress while doing so — is entirely possible if you prepare and plan ahead. It’s important

to maintain as much of your normal routine as possible and to consider additional ways to help kids with autism while you’re moving. Maintaining normalcy will help you and your children adjust quickly to your new home so you can settle in and feel comfortable. Moving becomes a part of our lives at many different stages: When we move away from our parents, relocate for a job opportunity, or find somewhere new to retire. No matter your circumstances, it can be a stressful process. And if you’re moving with a child with autism, it’s especially important to help relieve moving stress for both you and your kid.

It’s easier said than done but relocating with a child with autism — and limiting stress while doing so — is entirely possible if you prepare and plan ahead. It’s important to maintain as much of your normal routine as possible and to consider additional ways to help kids with autism while you’re moving. Maintaining normalcy will help you and your children adjust quickly to your new home so you can settle in and feel comfortable.

What is autism?

According to the advocacy site Autism Speaks, Autism

Spectrum Disorder (ASD) “refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication.”

Autism Parenting magazine reports that as of 2022, approximately 1 in 44 children is identified with autism. Most children are diagnosed after the age of 4 and boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed than girls.

Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning that there are many different subtypes, according to the Centers for Disease

Control and Prevention. The way ASD manifests, and the subsequent challenges and strengths that come along with it can vary depending on the person.

So, the ways in which moving stress could impact your child may vary. This article outlines some best practices based on expert resources. But to truly prepare, you will need to consider your child’s triggers and previous experiences. We also recommend you discuss the impending move with medical professionals that you trust and who know your child.

Charter Township of Superior Legal Notice Entry Level Firefighter Application Process

The Charter Township of Superior will be accepting applications beginning Monday, May 2, 2022 through Tuesday, May 31, 2022 for entry level firefighter. This process will be used to establish an eligibility list for 2 years. Duties of a firefighter include work in the protection of life and property; to operate and assist in maintaining equipment, apparatus and facilities; and to participate in rescue and fire prevention activities.

Requirements to apply:

• Must be a minimum of 18 years of age Must be a U.S. Citizen.

• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.

• Must have a valid Michigan driver’s license with good record and no more than 6 pts in the last 5 years.

• Must have valid CDL or FFTC.

• Driver Training Certificate.

Proof of the following must be submitted with application:

• Michigan Firefighter Training Council Firefighter I & II Certification

• State of Michigan or equivalent Emergency Medical Technician Basic License

• Valid certificate of completion of Conference of Western Wayne written and physical agility testing (all certifications must be valid at time of application and job offer). Photo identification will be required for all phases of the application process and should be submitted with application packet.

Information on testing opportunities can be obtained by contacting Schoolcraft College Testing Center at 734-462-4806. Interested candidates should contact the Charter Township of Superior Human Resource Department, 3040 N. Prospect Road, Superior Township, Michigan 48198, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday or via e-mail to nancymason@superior-twp.org. Applications must be received by the Human Resources Department no later than 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 31, 2022. COMPLETED

fizkes / Shutterstock

‘Grandmother

of Juneteenth’ and Nobel Peace Prize nominee Opal Lee to address social justice at Peckham Speaker Series

May 2, 2022—The Peckham Speaker Series will present social impact leader Ms. Opal Lee in a live virtual event on

Friday, May 6 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (CST).

Registration is free.

Lee, often referred to as the ‘Grandmother of Juneteenth’ is a retired teacher, counselor, and civil rights activist in the

movement to make Juneteenth a federally recognized holiday.

On June 17, 2021, President Biden signed Senate bill 475, making Juneteenth the 11th federal holiday. Author of Juneteenth: A Children’s Story, Lee has been nominated for the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize.

During the Peckham Speaker Series, Lee will share her

The virus is still out there. And the COVID-19 vaccine is shown to be safe and effective at reducing the severity of illness. Take this moment to get the facts, so you can protect yourself and others for whatever is next. To find your vaccine, visit Michigan.gov/COVIDvaccine, call 211, or text your zip code to 438829.

wisdom about advocating for equality as an activist and leader. There will also be an interactive Q & A session after the speech.

Ms. Opal Lee with the President

“I am honored to bring Ms. Opal Lee to Lansing before the Juneteenth celebration next month,” said Dr. Belay Reddick, of S & B Company. “The registrants are going to learn

Phone: 517-580-5155

Email:thechroniclenews86@gmail.com

so much from this American treasure and iconic figure.”

The event is sponsored by the Peckham Community Partnership Foundation.