The Chronicle News Electronic Publication No 75 June 8 - June 14th, 2025 by The Chronicle News

Connecting Communities

The Chronicle Celebrates JUNETEENTH

Celebrating Juneteenth: Judge Wanda M. Stokes on Freedom, Justice, and Equality

BY JUDGE WANDA STOKES 30TH DISTRICT CIRCUIT COURT

Juneteenth stands as a powerful reminder of the enduring struggle for freedom, justice, and equality in America.

On June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation

Proclamation, enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, finally learned of their liberation. This day, now recognized as Juneteenth, marks not only the end of slavery in the United States but also the beginning of a new chapter in

Michigan Lottery: Supporting Public Education and Local Businesses Since 1972

Every time you play the lottery, it's a win for Michigan. Every Lottery purchase benefits K-12 education, gives a lift to local businesses, and supports companies that employ Michigan residents.

About 97 cents of every dollar spent on Lottery tickets is returned to the state in the form of contributions

The Chronicle News

The Legacy of Dr. Mar tin Luther King Jr

Black History

Timothy "TJ the DJ" Jackson: Lansing’s Living Legacy in The Chronicle News 39th Anniversary Black History Spotlight

BY YANICE Y. JACKSON

Before the streaming era, before “going viral” was a thing, there were voices that moved the city, not just through the airwaves, but in spirit. One of those voices belongs to Timothy “TJ the DJ” Jackson—a name that stands tall in the archives of Lansing’s Black radio history.

A proud graduate of Lansing School District’s Radio & Television Production Program and later a standout at Lansing Community College, TJ’s journey began behind the mic—but quickly became something much deeper. His smooth voice, commanding presence, and encyclopedic knowledge of music earned him slots on both WLCR and WLCC, where he held down everything from midday grooves to after-

noon jazz. At the same time, he was grinding behind the scenes—working as an intern at WXLA 1170 AM, and soon after, becoming a trusted weekend newscaster.

But TJ didn’t stop there. His talent, passion, and hustle made it impossible to ignore.

When my father, Larry “Jay Price” Carter, affectionately known as the “Morning Mayor,” became General Sales Manager at WXLA, TJ’s rise was inevitable. He went from weekends to middays, then to afternoons and evenings—a dynamic force in any time slot. He helped take the station from zero ratings to the #1 AM station in Mid-Michigan, thanks to an all-hands-on-deck ap-

proach that included owners, managers, and a powerhouse on-air team.

More Than a Voice—He Was Family

For my family, TJ wasn’t just a radio staple—he was family. A longtime friend of my father, he was a fixture on our summer road trips down South, always cracking jokes and carrying that infectious, ageless laughter. I’ve known him since I was four years old. His presence was always a source of joy, storytelling, and

Launched in 1827, Freedom’s Journal was the first Blackowned and operated newspaper in the United States. Its bold mission—‘We wish to plead our own cause’—laid the foundation for nearly two centuries of independent Black journalism, including The Chronicle News.”

The Black Press: Our Voice, Our Power, Our Legacy

Before hashtags, before podcasts, before algorithms curated the news, there was The Black Press.

Born from resistance and rooted in truth, the Black press has always been more than just ink on paper. It represented survival. It embodied defiance. It was liberation on every page.

In 1827, Freedom’s Journal, the first African American-owned and operated newspaper in the

United States, declared boldly: “We wish to plead our own cause. Too long have others spoken for us."

That declaration echoed through generations. It sparked a chain reaction across the country—from The North Star, founded by Frederick Douglass, to The Chicago Defender, which gave voice to the Great Migration, to The Pittsburgh Courier and California Eagle, chronicling both the

pain and power of Black America. These weren’t just newspapers—they were lifelines. They told the truth when white-owned media wouldn’t. They covered lynchings, protests, elections, and Sunday sermons with equal care. They named our dead. They Scan to read full story

Courtesy Photo from the 1980s — Timothy “TJ the DJ” Jackson behind the board at WXLA 1170 AM, featured in The Metroplex News. A true pioneer of Lansing’s golden era of Black radio.

Governor Whitmer, Mayor Schor Proclaim

May

17 as

517

Day in the State of Michigan and its Capital City, Recognizing Creator Melik Brown and Downtown Lansing

On Saturday, May 17, 2025, Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Lansing Mayor Andy Schor proclaimed the day 517 in the State of Michigan and the City of Lansing. Representatives from the Governor’s office, the Mayor and community leaders gathered in Michigan’s Downtown on Saturday morning to read the proclamations and announce the start of 517 Day, recognizing Melik Brown, Creator and Founder of 517 Day, and the work of community organizations, business owners and community leaders to celebrate Lansing’s culture and community.

Celebrating its eighth year, this year’s celebration convenes several community organizations and local businesses to help the community celebrate all there is to love about the 517, including the Women's Center of Greater Lansing, Downtown Lansing, Inc. (DLI), Rathburn Insurance, and other community partners.

“I want to send a special thank you to Governor Whitmer and Mayor Schor for helping us celebrate and honor the 8th annual 517 Day celebration, said Brown. “This event was created to give our community a chance to come together and appreciate the unique culture

of Lansing. Since its creation, we have had so many great community organizations and leaders join in and celebrate all of the great offerings you can find in our Capital City.”

All 517-day activities will feature Michigan makers, music, art, shopping,

food, and the culture of the Lansing community. While there will be activities happening all around the city, Downtown Lansing will be the epicenter of 517 Day festivities, welcoming thousands of community members to the Best of Lansing Festival and with activities all along S. Washington Square, Capitol Ave., and Lansing’s riverfront. DLI also unveiled window murals created by local artists celebrating Lansing’s culture.

“We are honored to be a part of the 517 Day celebration and have today recognized by both Governor Whitmer and Mayor Schor, a powerful acknowledgment of the energy, creativity, and momentum rooted in Lansing and its Downtown,” said Cathleen Edgerly, Executive Director of DLI. “517 Day, fueled by Melik vi-

OVATION CENTER FOR MUSIC AND ARTS REVEALS FACILITY

DESIGN AND BRAND,ANNOUNCES MAJOR GRANT, PUBLIC ART AND FALL 2026 OPENING

LANSING — Sept. 18, 2024 — Ovation Center for Music and Arts

– Presented by MSUFCU revealed its final architectural design, brand and website, with plans to open in fall 2026. A public reveal event, including a grant announcement from the Dart Foundation, was held at the future site of the venue, 520 S. Washington Ave.

Located at the corner of S. Washington Ave. and W. Lenawee St. in Downtown Lansing, the Ovation will feature a two-story main stage with a capacity of more than 2,000; a black box perfor-

mance and film screening area; a rooftop terrace and lounge; seven venue bars; and a mural by artist Max Sansing. The venue will host large-scale concerts, acoustic shows, the Capital City Film Festival and more.

Albert Kahn Associates (the firm behind the Detroit Opera House) designed the building, and Freund & Associates will oversee construction. As home to the Lansing Public Media Center, the Ovation will also offer multi-purpose rooms, podcast studios, a music recording studio and creator suites for com-

munity groups and schools. Full floor plans and architectural renderings are available at ovationlansing.com/about.

“One of the Ovation’s key features is its ability to transform itself for a variety of shows,” said

Dominic Cochran, founding director of the Ovation and former director of the Lansing Public Media Center. “As a flexible-use space, it is designed to offer something for everyone. The Ovation is a venue by the people, for the people, built by fans who genuinely love live music.”

Construction is currently underway. According to AMS Planning & Research, the build is expected to generate $17.5 million for the local economy, create 209 full-time jobs and yield $1.1 million in taxes and fees for local governments. Venue operations and audience spending will add $12.5 million for the local economy, create 159 jobs and yield $904,000 in taxes annually.

Choose Lansing® Announces Experience Pass and Craft Beverage Pass Relaunch

LANSING, MICH. – May 15, 2025 – Choose Lansing® is excited to announce the relaunch of two digital passes designed to help residents and visitors explore the best of Greater Lansing. With more than $100 in potential savings, the Lansing Experience Pass and the Craft Beverage Pass provide exclusive deals at local attractions, breweries, distilleries, and more. Both passes are free and available year-round.

“We’re thrilled to bring back these digital passes to encourage people to get out and discover what Greater Lansing has to offer,” said Tracy Padot, Chief Marketing Officer at Choose Lansing. “We know people are looking for affordable fun so we wanted to remove any financial barriers folks may have in exploring the region. We’re so appreciative of our participating attractions for offering these amazing discounts on admission, food, beverage costs, and more! Whether you’re interested in date night activities, family fun, or craft beverages, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

Lansing Experience Pass

Unlock discounts valued at over $100

when you check into over 20 Lansing-area attractions and hot spots, such as:

• Impression 5 Science Center

• Sky Zone

• High Caliber Karting

• Zap Zone XL

• River Town Adventures

•…and more!

Greater Lansing Craft Beverage Pass

Sip and savor the best craft breweries, distilleries, and wineries in the capital region. Check into local craft beverage makers to access one-time deals valued at over $35.

How the Passes Work:

Browse Lansing-area attractions and/ or craft beverage makers

Visit and check in to access discounts

Learn more and sign up for the Lansing Experience Pass and Craft Beverage Pass at: www.lansing.org/experience-pass

Southside Summer Fest Weekend Kicks off with Live Karaoke

The Southside Festival Series 2025 edition began this past May 10th with the Local Authors Expo and Book Fair at the southside business C-Store & Deli. Summer Fest Weekend officially kicks off at Exchange Club Playground Friday July 25th and continues on Saturday and into Sunday. It jumps off with the Karaoke Kickback at 6pm hosted by Bigman Genesis, a radio personality

for Lansing’s WQHH 96.5. The Karaoke Kickback series has been a huge success in Lansing for several years and now comes to Jackson to kick off the Southside Summer Fest Weekend. The event begins at 6pm accompanied also by a special edition of More Than a Pretty Face Live Talk Show hosted by C-Dub. For more details see the full schedule of events on the back page of this edition of the Southside Business Chronicle.

Remembering Carloyn Carter-The Chronicle's Legacy of Love

BY YANICE Y. JACKSON

Carolyn Hill's faith was her badge of honor and she used it to guide her actions and decisions throughout her lifetime. Carolyn Hill grew up in Chicago, Illinois and graduated from John Marshall High School in 1969. She obtained her Associates of Arts (AA) degree in computer science from Wilbur Wright College in 1972.

From a young age, Carolyn developed a love for people and adventure. She participated in various activities such as Majorettes and the National Honor Society. She spent the bulk of her time enjoying the company of her friends and family. No matter the activity, Carolyn enjoyed bonding with others and having a blast. Carolyn met Larry Carter

(Jay Price) at the age of twelve and they were united in Holy Matrimony in 1976.

In 1985 the Carter family moved to Lansing Michigan after Larry accepted a position with WXLA 1170 AM (WQHH 96.5 FM). Carolyn had a well-rounded career that included a number of positions. She worked several years as an insurance agent and a manager at McDonald’s while helping to build Larry’s and her dream of being self-employed business owners. She faithfully supported the endeavors of her spouse by working as the co-owner of the Chronicle News in 1986 and stood as a pillar of strength silently in the background. Carolyn was responsible for the layout and design of the Chronicle from its inception until a few weeks prior to her passing in 2018.

the ongoing fight for civil rights and human dignity.

The significance of Juneteenth extends far beyond its historical roots. It is a celebration of resilience, hope, and the unwavering pursuit of justice by generations of Black Americans.

As we commemorate this day in

to the state School Aid Fund, prizes to players, and commissions to vendors and retailers. For every $1 spent on Lottery tickets, 26 cents goes to the state’s School Aid Fund, 62 cents goes to prizes for players, and 9 cents goes to retailer and vendor commissions. Over the last six years, retailers throughout the state, many of which are small, independently owned businesses, have collected more than $2 billion in commissions.

Since it began in 1972, the Lottery

Larry and Carloyn remained married until her transition to a new life on December 4, 2018. Together Larry and Carolyn raised three children: Anastacio Ramos III, William Larry-Carter (preceded her in death) and Yanice Carter.

Carolyn wholeheartedly dedicated her life to service. She was the glue that held the family together and was always found surrounding herself with good people. Carolyn was a beautiful soul with a radiant personality and heart of gold.

She enjoyed reading, cooking, traveling and being the life of the party. Her smile could melt the polar ice caps and it was

2025, we are called to reflect on the progress made, acknowledge the challenges that persist, and recommit ourselves to building a society where equality is not just an ideal, but a lived reality for all.

As a Circuit Court Judge, I see firsthand the importance of justice and fairness

in our legal system. Juneteenth is a reminder that the law is one of our most valuable tools in the pursuit of justice. Our responsibility is to ensure that justice is accessible, impartial, and rooted in the values of equity and respect for every individual.

Let us use this Juneteenth to honor the sacrifices of those who came before us, celebrate the achievements of our communities, and inspire future generations to continue the work of justice. Together, we can transform the promise of freedom into lasting change, ensuring that the spirit of Juneteenth lives on in our actions and our hearts. — Judge Wanda M. Stokes

has contributed nearly $30 billion to support public education in Michigan. For the most recent year, the Lottery’s contribution to the School Aid Fund topped $1 billion for the sixth consecutive year. Michigan’s K-12 public school system serves about 1.4 million students. Funding provided by the Lottery is equal to more than $890 for each student who attends a K-12 public school, or more than $3.4 million each day for schools throughout the state.

In addition to helping provide funding for public education in Michigan, the Lottery has also established the Excellence in Education program to recognize outstanding educators.

Every week during the school year, the Michigan Lottery selects one outstanding educator to receive the Excellence in Education award. Each weekly award winner receives a cash prize, a plaque, and is featured in their news segment on news stations throughout the state.

At the end of the school year, the Michigan Lottery selects one weekly winner to receive the Lottery’s Educator of the Year award and a $10,000 cash prize.

All public school employees may be nominated for the Excellence in Education awards. To learn more about the Excellence in Education program, please visit:https://www.michiganlottery.com/excellence-in-education

MICHIGAN LOTTERY

The Chronicle News Archive Photos-Carolyn Carter Layout and design for the Chronicle News 1986-2018

WAIT WHERE YOU WANT

SAVE YOUR SPOT WITH ONLINE ER CHECK-IN

YOUR SPOT WITH ONLINE ER CHECK-IN

With online ER check-in at McLaren, our waiting room can be your living room. McLaren is making it more convenient to access emergency care, without needing to wait in the ER. If you or a loved one is facing a non-life-threatening illness or condition, you can go online to view ER wait times, check-in to save your spot, then wait from the comfort of home, or wherever you are. McLaren emergency services. Your care is our commitment.

SAVE YOUR SPOT WITH ONLINE ER CHECK-IN

Save your spot at mclaren.org/LansingER

With the help of local donations and community partners, the McLaren Greater Lansing Foundation is making it easier for families with young children when they visit the hospital and doctors’ offices when needing care with the newest installment of book nooks and child-friendly furniture.

“Our primary goal at the McLaren Greater Lansing Foundation is to support our community needs when it comes to access to the best health care options that

Save your spot at mclaren.org/LansingER

are available right here in our hometown,” said Lynn Griffor, chief experience officer and vice president of philanthropy at McLaren Greater Lansing. “We’re always looking for ways to prioritize patient comfort, and that includes providing resources for our young families as well while they are waiting for their care.”

Book Nooks Bring Joy to Young Patients at McLaren Greater Lansing

distraction when in a hospital or doctors’ office setting, the McLaren Greater Lansing Foundation reached out to Ingham Intermediate School District (Ingham ISD) to help bring this idea to fruition.

your spot at mclaren.org/LansingER

With the idea of providing book material that primarily focuses on health-related topics and emotions for young children who may need a little comfort and

“Ingham ISD loves all things literacy, so we were thrilled to be approached by the Foundation about this initiative and we were able to find some grant

Courtesy Photo-Children enjoying reading time at the newly installed book nooks now available throughout McLaren Greater Lansing’s campus.

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WOMAN OF MANY FACETS: YANICE JACKSON LEADS THE CHRONICLE INTO A NATIONAL ERA

From Local Legacy to National Stage — Chronicle Media Grows Beyond the Midwest

For nearly four decades, The Chronicle News has been the heartbeat of Black storytelling in Lansing, Michigan—chronicling the movements, milestones, and everyday magic of the people it serves. At the center of that legacy stands Publisher Yanice Jackson, a woman of many facets, many titles—and one unwavering mission: to amplify community voices and rewrite the narrative for Black media across America.

As The Chronicle celebrates its 39th anniversary, Jackson is steering the organization into a bold new era—one that reaches beyond city limits and state lines.

This summer, The Chronicle Media Group will take the national stage, kicking off a strategic expansion plan that includes appearances at major expos, festivals, and conferences across the country. First stop: the Indiana Black Expo, where Jackson will represent both The Chronicle and her author brand Yanice Yvette, promoting books, merchandise, and a new wave of multimedia offerings under the Chronicle umbrella.

“We’re not just attending these events,” says Jackson. “We’re claiming space. We’re introducing a 39-year legacy to new markets—and letting the nation know: Black media is not just surviving. We’re evolving.”

Chronicle Publishing Co: Empowering New Voices

As part of this evolution, Jackson is expanding the Chronicle Publishing arm, offering author services, manuscript coaching, and publishing packages to new and aspiring writers who want to bring their stories to print. From memoirs to children’s books to community anthologies, Chronicle Publishing is quickly becoming a trusted source for culturally rooted, independently published literature.

She is also preparing to release her second book, 31 Love Letters — The Day I Fell in Love with You (You is Me), a poetic and deeply personal collection that explores healing, self-discovery, and the transformational power of love. Written as an intimate series of reflections, the book continues Jackson’s commitment to storytelling that affirms, inspires, and reveals the softer sides of strong women.

Celebrating Juneteenth: Judge Wanda M. Stokes on Freedom, Justice, and Equality

BY JUDGE WANDA STOKES 30TH DISTRICT CIRCUIT COURT

Juneteenth stands as a powerful reminder of the enduring struggle for freedom, justice, and equality in America.

On June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, finally learned of their liberation. This day, now recognized as Juneteenth, marks not only the end of slavery in the United States but also the beginning of a new chapter in the ongoing fight for civil rights and human dignity.

The significance of Juneteenth extends far beyond its historical roots. It is a celebration of resilience, hope, and the unwavering pursuit of justice by generations of Black Americans.

As we commemorate this day in 2025, we are

called to reflect on the progress made, acknowledge the challenges that persist, and recommit ourselves to building a society where equality is not just an ideal, but a lived reality for all.

As a Circuit Court Judge, I see firsthand the importance of justice and fairness in our legal system. Juneteenth is a reminder that the law is one of our most valuable tools in the pursuit of justice. Our responsibility is to ensure that justice is accessible, impartial, and rooted in the values of equity and respect for every individual.

Let us use this Juneteenth to honor the sacrifices of those who came before us, celebrate the achievements of our communities, and inspire future generations to continue the work of justice.

Together, we can transform the promise of freedom into lasting change, ensuring that the spirit of Juneteenth lives on in our actions and our hearts.

— Judge Wanda M. Stokes

Courtesy Photo — Hon. Wanda M. Stokes, Circuit Court Judge, shares a powerful Juneteenth reflection on justice, equality, and the continued pursuit of freedom. Her words remind us that the law must serve all people with dignity and equity.

Photo Credit: Tay Lee, Heart of the City Photography — Chronicle News Publisher Yanice Jackson. From print to podcast, from Lansing to the national stage, Jackson continues to amplify Black stories with purpose, pride, and unstoppable power.

7 Benefits of Placing Half-Page Ads in the Chronicle News for Local Businesses

Are you a local business looking to boost your visibility and reach more customers? Placing half-page ads in The Chronicle News could be the game-changer you need. Let's explore the top benefits of using this effective advertising strategy.

1. Boost Local Visibility in The Chronicle News

Placing half-page ads in The Chronicle News allows you to reach a wide local audience, increasing awareness of your business within the community. By appearing in a trusted local publication, you can establish credibility and trust with potential customers. Moreover, local customers are more likely to notice and remember businesses that they see frequently in their neighborhood newspapers. This repeated exposure through half-page ads can significantly boost your visibility and brand recognition in the area.

With The Chronicle News being a go-to source for local news and updates, your half-page ads can capture the attention of residents who are actively engaged in their community. This targeted exposure is invaluable for local businesses seeking to expand their reach.

2. Connect Directly with Your Audience

Half-page ads in The Chronicle News provide a direct line of com-

munication with your target audience. Unlike digital ads that can be easily scrolled past, a half-page ad in a print publication offers a tangible and engaging way to connect with readers.

By strategically designing your ad to resonate with the local community, you can create a personal connection that resonates with readers on a deeper level. This direct engagement can lead to increased interest in your business and drive more customers through your doors.

3. Drive Targeted Traffic to Your Business

One of the key benefits of placing half-page ads in The Chronicle News is the ability to drive targeted traffic to your business. Unlike broader advertising methods, such as billboards or radio ads, half-page ads allow you to focus your message on a specific local audience.

By highlighting your products or services in a prominent print ad, you

can attract readers who are more likely to convert into customers. The localized nature of The Chronicle News means that your ad will be seen by individuals who are geographically close to your business.

4. Enhance Brand Recognition

Consistent visibility is key to building brand recognition, and half-page ads in The Chronicle News offer an ideal platform for achieving this. By featuring your business prominently in a trusted local publication, you can increase awareness and familiarity with your brand.

With each appearance of your ad in The Chronicle News, you reinforce your brand's presence in the minds of consumers. Over time, this Scan to read full story

Tips for Lowering Maintenance Costs at Your Business

As a business owner, finding ways to curtail expenses while ensuring smooth operations is paramount. Maintenance costs, if you’ve left them unchecked, can quickly escalate and erode your profits. Thankfully, there is a world of ways that you can lower maintenance costs at your business. A little bit of work in the right places can go a long way toward saving your business money and making maintenance easy. Here are some tips.

Regularly Inspect and Maintain Equipment

Regular inspections and maintenance of your equipment are essential for identifying potential problems early. By addressing issues promptly,

you can prevent costly repairs or replacements. Make it a habit to schedule routine maintenance checks for all equipment, using diagnostic tools to assess its condition.

Also, keep detailed records of any work done, including replaced parts and service dates, to track equipment performance over time. Implement-

ing a comprehensive maintenance checklist can streamline this process and help you make sure that you’re not overlooking anything important.

Use the Right Equipment and Materials

Using high-quality equipment and materials may require a larger upfront investment but

can save you money over time. Cheaper options might seem cost-effective initially, but they often lack durability and are prone to frequent breakdowns, leading to higher maintenance costs.

For example, if you use storage tanks, it’s important that you also invest in tank liners to reduce the maintenance, repairs, and replacements that you’ll do over time. Polymer-based tank liners have numerous benefits, and when you invest in similar high-quality equipment and materials, you can capitalize on these benefits. Maintenance will never go away. However, when you invest in your equipment instead of cutting corners, maintenance can be easy and save you money in the long run.

Train Your Employees

Properly trained employees are crucial for reducing maintenance costs. They should not only be knowledgeable about using equipment correctly but also adept at identifying warning signs of potential issues and following proper maintenance procedures. Invest in comprehensive employee training programs that cover equipment operation, basic troubleshooting techniques, and safety protocols. These programs can save you money in the long run by Scan to read full story

The Chronicle's Small Business Spotlight: The Secret Ingredients-How Eric King of Poppa's Cookbook Cooked Up Small Business Success

BY YANICE Y. JACKSON

The Chronicle News is proud to spotlight Eric and Wendi King, the inspiring couple behind Poppa’s Cookbook. Their story is one of resilience, love, and shared purpose—proving that fairytales do come true and prayers are answered. Together, they’ve built a thriving business rooted in family, community, and the transformative power of partnership.

From Life’s Storms to a Love Story

Eric and Wendi's love story began in April 2018, grounded in mutual respect and shared values. Their connection was instant and deep, based on mu-

Jay

Price

tual respect, shared values, and a strong faith. Their relationship flourished into marriage during the peak of the 2020 pandemic, symbolizing their

"The

Morning

steadfast commitment to each other.

Eric's path to Wendi, whom he affectionately calls "Pretty Wendi," was marked by cour-

age and determination. His journey was far from straightforward. From Lansing to New Orleans to Houston and back, Eric's story is one of resilience and reinvention. His return to Lansing, Michigan, was fortuitous. After Hurricane Harvey's devastation, Eric left Houston and returned to Lansing, determined to rebuild. As a Lansing native with a background in coaching, education, and insurance, Eric reconnected with his roots—and entered Wendi's life. A longtime educator and insurance professional, Eric was set on creating a new chapter. That chapter included Wendi, and together, they've built a life and business that exudes love, perseverance, and shared dreams. Their rela-

tionship grew into a marriage during the height of the 2020 pandemic—a testament to their dedication to each other despite the world's challenges.

Wendi's experiences inspired her book, “Don’t Settle for Prince Charming: A Queen Deserves a King,” which details her journey to discovering self-worth and true love. In Eric, she found her King, a partner who supports her as they grow together.

Community Roots and a Shared Mission

After earning his degree

Scan to read full story

Mayor" Honoring the Life and Legacy of A Founding Voice of Lansing's Black Media

Before the digital age. Before streaming. Before social media platforms replaced street corners and print presses, there was Jay Price.

Born Larry Carter and known professionally as Jay Price, this visionary made it his life’s mission to amplify the voices of Black Lansing—first through radio, and later, through the pages of The Chronicle Newspaper. His influence touched countless households, hearts, and histories.

Radio Trailblazer & Cultural Architect

Jay Price was instrumental in launching Lansing’s first urban contemporary radio station, WXLA 1170 AM, in 1984. He didn’t just talk into the mic—he shaped what the mic meant. Under his on-air moniker

“The Morning Mayor,” Jay brought humor, local flavor, and authentic representation to the airwaves. The station later became WXLA 1180 AM, expanding its reach.

Not only was he a trusted voice, but also a sharp strategist. Jay worked as Sales Manager at WXLA and later at its FM sister station, WQHH 96.5, helping launch its for-

mat and grow its advertising base. He was as respected behind the scenes as he was in front of the mic.

The Chronicle is Born

In May 1986, Jay and his wife, Carolyn Carter, founded a newspaper originally called The Capital Chronicle, later renamed The Chronicle News. With determination, a typewriter, and family support, they launched what would become Lansing’s Scan to read full story

Courtesy Photo-Wendi and Eric King. A power couple who serves as a source for inspiration as they set an example how a dedicated couple can be partners in marriage and in business. Together, they’ve created not only a beautiful partnership but also a thriving business, Poppa’s Cookbook.

Courtesy Photo — Jay Price behind the mic at WLTH Radio in Gary, Indiana, spinning records and shaping the sound of soul in the early days of his broadcast career.