The Chronicle News No 78 July I 2025 by The Chronicle News

Summer Festivals Edition

All Roads Lead to Indy: Why We Show Up

In just a few days, Indianapolis will pulse with energy as the 54th Annual Indiana Black Expo Summer Celebration unfolds July 17–20 at the Indiana Convention Center. What began in 1971 as a fundraiser in the wake of Chicago’s Operation PUSH has grown to become one of the Midwest’s most enduring cultural cornerstones.

Why We Show Up

For over five decades, Black communities across Indiana—and beyond—have converged on this city to celebrate heritage, grow businesses, and nurture unity through shared stories and shared meals. As a Black woman-led publication rooted in Lan-

ummer in Michigan is festival season—in every corner of the Mitten. From lakefront parades to deep-rooted traditions, here’s what’s happening:

African World Festival (Detroit • July 18–20)

A heavyweight celebration of diaspora culture, the AWF attracts over 20,000 attendees for a weekend of global music, food, dance, and storytelling. This year marks the Wright Museum’s 60th anniversary The Wright.

Before hashtags. Before flyers. Before corporate sponsors and VIP passes, there were parades. Block parties. Cookouts in church lots. And Black people gathering not just to have fun, but to be free in public. To honor the past, protect each other in the present, and envision the future out loud. These weren’t just festivals—they were radical declarations of self-determination, economic solidarity, political organizing, and cultural preservation.

From Emancipation Day to Indy

The tradition of Black cultural festivals traces back to the 1800s, when newly freed people organized Emancipation Day parades to commemorate their liberation, often on June 19

The Legacy of Dr. Mar tin Luther King Jr

Black History

The Legacy of Celebration: Black Festivals as Resistance, Restoration & Revival

(now known as Juneteenth) or August 1 (marking the end of slavery in British territories). These gatherings were bold. Loud. Sacred. And every inch of space they took up was a resistance against being forgotten.

In 1971, just three years after Dr. King’s assassination, a group of visionaries in Indiana channeled that same spirit and launched the first Indiana Black Expo Summer Celebration. Their goal? To uplift the economic, educational, and cultural advancement of African Americans statewide. What started as a single weekend has grown into a massive, multi-day celebration of Black excellence, drawing tens of thousands from around the country.

Back in the Day, That Was the

Revolution

Scan

Across Michigan—whether it was the Old Town Jazz Fest, Juneteenth Jubilee at St. Joe Park, or family reunions that took over whole blocks—these events became sacred rituals of Black joy, commerce, protest, and praise. And The Chronicle was there, documenting it all.

The Legacy of Celebration Juneteenth parades to the Indiana Black Expo, Black festivals have long served as sacred spaces for resistance, remembrance, and revival. These gatherings reflect a powerful tradition of joy as protest and culture as survival. Photo collage created by The Chronicle Media Group. Historical images sourced from public domain archives and enhanced for educational use.

The Rich Legacy and Traditions of Black Heritage

Black heritage is a tapestry woven with rich threads of history, culture, and resilience. This legacy is celebrated and preserved through various traditions, stories, and practices that have shaped the lives of countless individuals. From music and art to cuisine and community gatherings, these elements reflect the struggles and triumphs of Black individuals throughout history. In this post, we will explore the depth of Black heritage and highlight some key traditions that continue to thrive today.

Understanding Black Heritage Black heritage encompasses a wide array of cultural practices, historical narratives, and community values. It draws from the experiences of African

people, especially those displaced by slavery and colonization. The legacy of Black heritage can be traced back to African civilizations, where traditions like storytelling, music, and communal gatherings played vital roles in daily life.

As these traditions evolved in the

New World, they integrated various influences, resulting in distinctive forms of expression. For example, the blend of African rhythms with European musical styles gave rise to jazz, blues, and gospel, which have transformed the music landscape globally.

The Significance of Black Heritage

The significance of Black heritage extends beyond cultural expressions; it serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of Black communities throughout history. Understanding these traditions allows us to appreciate the sacrifices made by those who came before us.

For instance, the celebration of Juneteenth has grown from a region-

al observance into a national holiday, marking the end of slavery in the United States. It highlights the ongoing fight for freedom and equality.

Moreover, education about Black heritage engenders greater understanding and respect in multi-ethnic societies. Through storytelling, art, and music, people learn about the rich contributions of Black individuals to broader societal narratives.

What are some traditions in African American culture?

African American culture is infused with numerous

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An overview of a colorful cultural festival celebrating Black heritage and traditions.

A Lansing for All of Us: Julie Vandenboom for Lansing City Council

Julie Vandenboom is running for Lansing City Council AtLarge because she believes our city works best when every voice is heard, not just at election time, but every day. A longtime resident of Lansing, Julie is showing up with humility, urgency, and the kind of listening leadership our city needs.

Julie has spent her career in public service, including 16 years at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Her work in policy analysis and program planning has always centered on community well-being, equity, and accountability. She brings that same focus to her roles with the Eastside Neighborhood Organization, Capital Area District Library Board, and

Friends of Bancroft Park.

“I’ve knocked on thousands of doors across Lansing,” Julie says. “I’ve had powerful conversations with people about housing, safety, infrastructure, and dignity. Our neighbors know what we need –my job is to listen and get to work.”

Housing is a top priority in her campaign. Julie supports stronger tenant protections, rental licensing reform, and long-term affordability strategies. She believes housing policy should be shaped with those most impacted, including renters, seniors, and working families.

Julie is also focused on everyday infrastructure – the roads, sidewalks, and services that shape our daily lives. She’s committed to making sure those concerns don’t

fall through the cracks.

As an active member of the NAACP Lansing Branch, Rent is Too Damn High Tenants Union, and Strong Towns Lansing, Julie is building coalitions that reflect the full diversity of our city.

Julie knows that in times of division, we need leaders who unite. “People are worried about what’s happening in the world,” she says. “Local government has to be the place where we show that care, justice, and community are still possible.”

Julie Vandenboom is ready to serve with clarity, courage, and compassion. You’ll find her ad in this issue and you’ll find her at your door in the weeks ahead. Vote Julie Vandenboom for Lansing City Council At-Large by August 5.

Pete Buttigieg Endorses Mayor Andy Schor for Reelection

LANSING, Mich. - Lansing Mayor Andy Schor announced today that Pete Buttigieg has endorsed him in his reelection bid for Mayor of Lansing. Buttigieg is the former U. S. Secretary of Transportation from 2021 to 2025 under President Biden, the former Mayor of South Bend, Indiana, and a 2020 presidential candidate.

“I’m proud to endorse my friend Andy Schor for Mayor of Lansing,” Buttigieg stated. “Earlier this year, I made a promise to actively support leaders across America who are bringing people together and solving big problems in these uncertain times. Mayor Schor has been at the forefront of bringing real change and clear results for Lansing residents and everyday Michiganders.

I have seen his leadership firsthand with the growth and development of

Michigan’s capital city. Andy is a community-focused leader who has delivered bold, equitable, and sustainable solutions to Lansing. In South Bend, where I served as Mayor, and in federal service working with local leaders across the country, I have come to believe that local government and leadership is the front line of where policy and action can improve everyday life. Andy brings decency and compassion in building bridges for the community he leads, and I believe Andy Schor is the clear choice to continue to serve as Lansing’s Mayor for the next four years.”

Schor and Buttigieg got to know each other after Schor was first elected Lansing Scan to read full story

Courtesy Photo Julie Vandenboom-Candidate for Lansing City Council At. Large

PUBLIC NOTICE OF

CAPITAL AREA TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY’S PROPOSED FISCAL 2026 PROGRAM OF PROJECTS & PUBLIC HEARING ON ITS PROPOSED FISCAL 2026 BUDGET

Capital Area Transportation Authority hereby provides notice to the public and to private providers of its proposed fiscal program of projects and public hearing on its fiscal 2026 budget.

proposed fiscal 2026 program of projects follows:

Capital Area Transportation Authority hereby provides notice to the public and to private providers of its proposed fiscal 2026 program of projects and public hearing on its fiscal 2026 budget.

The proposed fiscal 2026 program of projects follows: PROGRAM OF PROJECTS CAPITAL

Section 5307 Formula Funding

Section 5339 Bus and Bus Facilities Funding

Section 5310 Funding Request

The proposed program of projects will constitute the final program of projects if there are no changes. Additional details on the proposed fiscal 2026 program of projects and a copy of the proposed fiscal 2026 budget are available for public inspection at CATA’s Administration Building, 4615 Tranter St., Lansing, MI 48910.

Lansing City Clerk Chris Swope Announces Early Voting For Primary City Election

LANSING , Michigan – With the distribution of over 22,800 ballots now underway in the mail to Lansing City voters, voting in the Lansing City Primary Election has kicked off. There is still time to request a ballot via mail until August 1st. The USPS recommends allowing at least 1 week for ballots to arrive. For more information, please visit www.LansingVotes.gov.

On the Primary ballot, voters will narrow down the list of candidates for Mayor, City Council At Large, and 4th Ward City Council, and vote on a proposal to renew the City Park Millage.

CATA will hold a public hearing on its proposed fiscal 2026 budget Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025, at 4 p.m. at the Lansing Center Governor’s Room, 333 E. Michigan Ave., Lansing, MI 48933.

CATA will hold a public hearing on its proposed fiscal 2026 budget Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025 at 4 p.m. at the Lansing Center Governor’s Room, 333 E. Michigan Ave., Lansing, MI 48933.

The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. This will be a levy under the current authorized millage. There is NO proposal for a new millage.

Written comments on the program of projects or the budget should be addressed to CATA Marketing Attn: Program/Budget Comments, 4615 Tranter St., Lansing, MI 48910, or emailed to marketing@cata.org and must be received by 4 p.m., Aug. 20, 2024. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and should be requested by Aug. 18, 2025

Capital Area Transportation Authority Bradley T. Funkhouser, AICP, Chief Executive Officer

Written comments on the program of projects or the budget should be addressed to CATA Marketing, Attn: Program/Budget Comments, 4615 Tranter St., Lansing, MI 48910, or emailed to marketing@cata.org and must be received by 4 p.m., Aug. 20, 2024. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and should be requested by Aug. 18, 2025.

millage rate proposed to be

to support the proposed budget will be

subject of this

This will be a levy under the current authorized millage. There is NO proposal for a new millage. Written comments on the program of projects or the budget should be addressed to CATA Marketing, Attn: Program/Budget Comments, 4615 Tranter St., Lansing, MI 48910, or emailed to marketing@cata.org and must be received by 4 p.m., Aug. 20 2024. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and should be requested by Aug. 18, 2025

*Includes federal and state preventive-maintenance funds.

Capital Area Transportation Authority

Bradley T. Funkhouser, AICP, Chief

Bradley T. Funkhouser, AICP, Chief Executive Officer

*Includes federal and state preventive-maintenance funds.

On Wednesday July 30th, Saturday August 2nd, and Sunday August 3rd, the Reo Elections Office will be an early voting site for Lansing City Voters. In a similar experience to Election Day, early voters can feed their own ballot into the tabulator. Results will not be known by anyone until 8 pm on Election Day. Hours and more details available at www.lansingvotes.gov.

The Reo Elections Office has free parking, and a secure election drop box available 24/7 and is located at 1221 Reo Rd., just a little northwest of the intersection of S. MLK Blvd. and Jolly Rd. and on CATA Route #9. Voters can also visit this office be-

tween 9am and 5pm Monday through Friday, and to 7pm on Wednesday, to request an absentee ballot.

“More voters are taking advantage of the opportunities to vote at home and vote early because they can vote on their own time in advance,” said Lansing City Clerk Chris Swope. “With an increasing number of people wanting to vote at home, we are also seeing an increase in turnout in comparison to similar elections in the past.”

At www.lansingvotes.gov, voters can find the closest drop box to return their absentee ballot, what is on the ballot, Early Voting information, and much more. Voters must return their ballot by 8 p.m. on Election Day to be counted. or can now take their ballot to their precinct or an early voting site to be tabulated. 24-hour, secure ballot drop boxes are located within 1.5 miles of any Lansing resident or voters can return their ballot via mail with postage paid.

As an alternative to Reo Elections Office, voters can come to Lansing City Hall, 124 West Michigan Ave., to pick up an absentee ballot in-person until Monday, August 4th at 4pm. For more information, visit www.lansinvotes.gov or call (517) 483-4131.

Holly Robinson-Peete, Greg Oden, Dr. Dwight Holland, and Barbara Thompson to Headline Indiana Black Expo’s Mental Health Symposium During Summer Celebration

Indiana Black Expo (IBE) is proud to announce its highly anticipated Mental Health Symposium, taking place during this year’s Annual Summer Celebration. The symposium will spotlight critical conversations around mental health in the Black community, featuring a distinguished panel of celebrities and experts who bring personal insight and professional expertise to the topic.

WHEN: Saturday, July 20, 2025 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

WHERE: Indiana Convention Center, Wabash Ballroom 2

MODERATOR: Carolene Mays, founder of Building Leaders+Legacies, Inc., and creator & host of “Community Link” on WISH-TV, Indianapolis

PANELISTS: Holly Robinson Peete, an award-winning actress, author, ad-

vocate, and founder of the HollyRod Foundation, shares her family’s journey with autism and Parkinson’s awareness.

Greg Oden, former NBA player and Director of Player Development at Edyoucore Sports & Entertainment, is opening up about athlete mental health.

Dr. Dwight Holland, Owner and Co-CEO of Family and Community Partners Counseling Services, is lending professional expertise on community behavioral health.

Barbara Thompson, Executive Director of NAMI Indiana, is addressing advocacy, resources, and the importance of reducing stigma.

The symposium is designed to empower attendees with tools, strategies, and shared experiences that underscore why mental health matters for individuals, families, and communities. Guests will also have access to an extensive lineup of fea-

tured mental health resource exhibitors, including:

 NAMI of Central Indiana

 Genesys Mental Health Solutions

 Coping and Healing Behavioral Health Services LLC

 InTouch Outreach

 A Blossoming Rose Inc.

 We Bloom

 Family and Community Partners

This year’s event is generously supported by IU Health and AES Indiana.

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Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival (Grand Haven • July 25 – August 3)

Part patriotism, part amusement park, all family fun—this annual celebration honors Coast Guard heroes with parades, fireworks, carnival rides, craft fairs, and a classic car show Hey Michigan.

Ann Arbor Art Fair (Ann Arbor • July 17–19)

Celebrating its 65th year, this mega-event draws 400,000 art lovers downtown. Featuring outdoor galleries, live music, interactive installations, food trucks, and street performances— it’s Michigan’s cultural heartbeat .

Hotter Than July! (Detroit • July, week-long)

Detroit’s Black LGBT Pride celebration uniquely blends activism, joy, and identity. Since 1996, events like candle-light vigils, boat parties, film screenings, and a final weekend festi-

val have drawn 20,000+ participants to Palmer Park en.wikipedia.org.

Sterlingfest Art & Music Fair (Sterling Heights

• late July)

Named “Michigan’s Best Summer Festival” by The Detroit News, this three-day event showcases jazz/blues concerts, kids’ entertainment, juried art, food trucks, and carnival rides for more than 120,000 visitors en.wikipedia.org.

sing’s heartbeat, The Chronicle News and Chronicle Media Group honor that legacy. We’re showing up not just to report on events, but to carry forward the spirit of empowerment that IBE embodies through scholarships, economic training, health screenings, and creative showcase.

That’s why you’ll find us at Corner Booth 814—right in the heart of the action.

Amplifying Community Voices

National Blueberry Festival (South Haven

• mid-August)

Celebrating its blueberry harvest since 1963, this festival draws nearly 50,000 with parades, live music, arts & crafts, and athletic events—all with blueberry themes, of course en.wikipedia.org.

We may not yet know all the local leaders or exhibitors who will join us in Indy, but we’re leaning into those who represent Black excellence back home. This issue spotlights Michigan voices and Black Midwest legacies who inspire us daily, even if their stories unfold beyond state lines.

How to Prepare for a Powerful Weekend

Here’s how to own the Expo:

In addition, IBE will debut its Our Mind Matters exhibit and PSA campaign video inside the Cultural Arts Pavilion (CAP), further amplifying the conversation around mental health awareness.

 Wear comfortable shoes—there’s walking, talking, and witnessing to do.

 Bring your QR codes—yours, theirs, and ours (we’re going all digital).

 Support our vendors, because every booth holds a dream.

 Come see us—Corner Booth 814— we’d love to connect.

Our Invitation to You

We’re not just printing the stories. We are the story. We’re the daughters of Black radio—the grandsons of the Black press. We publish the paper, push the culture, and preserve our people’s truth.

Come see us at Corner Booth 814. Say hello. Pick up the paper. Tell us your story. Let’s make this Expo feel like ours—Midwestern and unapologetically Black.

Connect. Contribute. Carry it forward.

 MICHIGAN

CANCER IS PERSONAL SO IS OUR CARE

As a singer in a women’s chorus, Jaimie’s life was guided by harmony and rhythm. When she was diagnosed with breast cancer, everything changed. Facing new challenges, Jamie needed more than just treatment; she needed care that saw her as a whole person, not just a patient.

At Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Greater Lansing, in partnership with MSU Health Care, Jaimie found that care. Her team of experts built a treatment plan around her life, her needs, and her goals. With their support, she kept singing and healing.

Discover the difference personalized care can make at karmanos.org/lansingcancer.

Black Festival Season 2025: Where Unity Meets Culture

Summer 2025 is shining bright on Black-owned cultural festivals—bridging heritage, empowerment, and pure joy across the nation. Here’s where to be and why these gatherings matter:

Indiana Black Expo Summer Celebration (Indianapolis, IN • July 11–20)

One of the Midwest’s longest-running Black festivals, the IBE has grown from its roots in 1971 into a multi-day powerhouse featuring concerts (Keith Sweat, SWV), a Black Film Festival premiere, health fairs, business workshops, and a Gospel Explosion finale Big Rapids Pioneer+4Midland Daily News+4The Guardian+4Travel Noire+2Axios+2Axios+2. This is where community meets culture, with scholarships, economic empowerment, and performance art at its core.

Cincinnati Music Festival (Cincinnati, OH • July 31 –August 2)

A soulful celebration of R&B, jazz, and blues, this festival packs PayCor Stadium with fans celebrating Black musical legacy through live performances that honor tradition and innovation alike Soul Of America.

African World Festival (Detroit, MI • July 18–20)

At Hart Plaza, Detroit’s diaspora festival draws 20,000 people annually for three days of music, food, art, and education—marking the 60th anniversary of the Detroit-based Wright Museum. The event highlights global Black culture through immersive programming and community storytelling The Wright.

Black Women's Expo (Chicago, IL • August 1–3)

Known as BWe NEXT, this expo is the nation’s top event for Black women—offering entrepreneurship workshops, professional networking, health resources, and empowerment panels. It’s where scholarship meets sisterhood Eventnoire News & Media.

Black Arts Fest MKE (Milwaukee, WI • August 2)

Held at the Summerfest grounds, this one-day celebration bridges generational creativity with music, visual art, dance, poetry, fashion, and food vendors. It emphasizes heritage education and pride in African ancestry blackartsfestmke. com+1The Wright+1.

Why It Matters

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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, elec-

Launched in 1827, Freedom’s Journal was the first Black-owned 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.”

tions, and Sunday sermons with equal care. They named our dead. They honored our leaders. They told our stories

when nobody else would dare.

The Chronicle Newspaper Joins the Lineage

In May 1986, my parents, Larry “Jay Price” Carter and Carolyn Carter, picked up that baton and founded The Chronicle News right here in Lansing. With a typewriter and an unstoppable vision, they carved out a space where our community could see itself reflected with pride and complexity.

It wasn’t just about headlines. It was about heritage.

Over the past 39 years, The Chronicle has been a watchtower, a mirror, a drumbeat. We’ve uplifted pastors, profiled poets, stood up for the voiceless, and passed the mic to the next generation. We’ve told stories from the block to the ballot box—because that’s what the Black press has always done.

We’re proud to be part of this sacred continuum—a legacy built by the brave, the bold, and the beautifully Black. As newsrooms across the coun-

try shrink or shut down, Black-owned media like The Chronicle remain, still rooted in the community, still reporting from love, not lenses.

Sidebar: Icons of the Black Press

A few of the names that shaped the movement:

• Freedom’s Journal (1827 – NYC) –First Black newspaper in the U.S.

• The North Star – Founded by Frederick Douglass in 1847

• The Chicago Defender – Influential voice during the Great Migration

• Pittsburgh Courier – One of the largest and most powerful Black papers of the 20th century

• California Eagle – Led by activist Charlotta Bass

• Amsterdam News – Harlem’s historic Black paper, founded in 1909

• Michigan Chronicle – A leading voice for Black Detroit and Michigan

“If the mainstream media won’t tell our stories, we’ll print our truth.”

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

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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.

Linkage Community to Launch as Independent Initiative Supporting Artists Across Michigan Living Beyond Incarceration

Statewide Creative Network Will Transition from University of Michigan’s Prison Creative Arts Project on August 1, 2025

ANN ARBOR, MI — [June 11, 2025] After more than two decades of fostering creativity, connection, and opportunity for artists who are formerly incarcerated, the Linkage Community will officially transition into an independent initiative on August 1, 2025.

Founded as a mentorship program under the University of Michigan’s Prison Creative Arts Project (PCAP) in the early 2000s, Linkage has evolved into a statewide, member-driven network supporting artists with lived experience of incarceration. With active members in Detroit, Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, Flint, and other communities across Michigan, Linkage is now recognized as the state’s leading peer-based creative reentry network.

“Linkage provides me with a platform to give a voice to those who are unable to speak because of incarceration,” said Johnny Van Patten, a Lansing-based visual artist and founding Linkage member.

On August 1, Linkage will begin operating inde-

pendently under a fiscal sponsor, marking its departure from PCAP and the University of Michigan. The move provides autonomy to shape programming and set strategic direction, all while maintaining a collaborative relationship with PCAP.

“This transition is a testament to the creativity, vision, and leadership of Linkage members themselves,” said Nora Kritinsky, Director of the Prison Creative Arts Project. “We’re honored to have sup-

ported their growth and excited to continue working together in new ways.”

Linkage Community members co-create programming that fosters emotional wellness, artistic growth, peer navigation, and economic mobility. The network also provides holistic support and resource-sharing for individuals as they build lives after incarceration. Pillars of programming include:

● Belonging: “Welcome to Linkage” meals, oneon-one check-ins, in-person and virtual gatherings, weekly newsletter.

● Bridging Gaps: Personalized referrals to social services, travel support for in-person events, pre-entry parole board support, technology coaching, free digitization of artwork.

● Development: Exhibitions and performances, in-person intensives and trainings, project consultations, free art supplies, professional introductions.

A send-off fundraising campaign is underway to ensure a strong launch. Supporters can contribute at https://

6 Ways To Be a Mentor and Inspire Future Leaders

Mentoring plays a crucial role in developing tomorrow's leaders by offering mentorship, motivation, and backing. Mentoring within your professional field or in the community helps foster untapped potential, nurturing the next wave of changemakers and decision-makers

Here are six ways to be a mentor and inspire future leaders, offering actionable tips to make a lasting impact.

1. Establish Trust Through Open Communication

At the heart of effective mentoring lies trust, which creates a foundation for meaningful growth. Encourage mentees to ask questions freely, share their aspirations, and discuss challenges openly and honestly, knowing they will be supported.

Be approachable and listen actively, giving your full attention and demonstrating empathy. This creates a safe, welcoming space that motivates mentees to grow and helps build a strong, trusting relationship that benefits their development.

2. Lead by Example

Mentorship goes beyond just giving advice — it’s about showing behaviors and values that mentees can look up to and learn from. Be honest and transparent to demonstrate integrity, bounce back from setbacks with a positive spirit to show resilience, and stay committed to continuous growth and learning in your career or field.

When you consistently embody these qualities, your mentee will likely adopt a similar mindset and develop a strong professional character.

3. Share Constructive Feedback

Great mentors understand the importance of striking a balance between encouragement and honesty. They provide helpful and clear feedback that focuses on practical steps, inspiring mentees to recognize their strengths and identify areas for growth. This caring approach fosters confidence and development, making the learning experience both supportive and uplifting.

4. Offer Opportunities for Growth

Go beyond simple mentorship talks by proactively linking your mentees to diverse opportunities that can greatly enhance their skills and hands-on experience. You can be a powerful mentor and motivate future

leaders by connecting them to valuable professional networks and communities, offering specific resources for self-improvement, and advising on relevant training programs and certifications that support their career objectives.

5. Set Goals Together

Work collaboratively with your mentee to establish realistic and achievable milestones across various areas such as academics, personal development, or career goals. Setting clear objectives helps maintain focus and provides measurable indicators of progress.

Here are some potential goals to consider:

• Improve academic performance in specific subjects

• Develop better time management and organizational skills

• Build confidence in public speaking or presentations

• Explore potential career paths and set long-term aspirations

• Strengthen networking and professional development skills

Fostering a shared vision encourages stronger trust and alignment between mentor and mentee, motivating

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Competing With Big Corporations Through Adaptive Technology

Big brands have many advantages—resources, global reach, marketing budgets—but that doesn’t mean small business owners can’t thrive in the same arena. Digital tools make it easier than ever to level the playing field, offering flexibility and efficiency without massive overhead costs. Here’s how adaptive technology can empower business leaders to compete with big corporations and carve out success.

Streamline Operations Without Complications

Adaptive technology is about efficiency. Tools that adapt to your business’s needs let you respond faster to changing demands, such as scaling up production or customizing outputs.

For instance, using adaptive machinery for small to medium production lines can help you produce quality goods without delay or require a complete factory floor renovation. This flexibility is priceless when competing against large corporations, especially when meeting tight turnaround times or

handling unique customer requests.

Tailor-Made Customer Experiences

Large corporations may lack the ability to cater to individual customer preferences. Small businesses have a better opportunity to create personalized experiences.

Use inventory software to track what’s popular with your customers or AI tools to refine your email engagement. Then, you’ll be better equipped to deliver tailored solutions. Customers notice when a business listens to them, and this can build a loyal clientele that corporate giants struggle to establish.

Cost-Effective Scalability

Investing in innovation used to require considerable upfront costs, but technolo-

gy has evolved. Cloud-based services, subscription models, and scalable systems can grow alongside your business! Instead of over-producing or paying for underused equipment, these solutions help with spending in a way that meets your needs. Competing with big corporations through adaptive technology allows small business owners to handle growth without staggering budgets or compromising quality.

Stay Relevant With Real-Time Data

Small business leaders can make quick decisions when they’re plugged into tools Scan to read full story

A Letter from Chronicle News Publisher Yanice Jackson: The Chronicle Turns 39—A Legacy of Truth and Community

Built on Truth. Rooted in Community. Still Rising

BY YANICE Y. JACKSON

In May 1986, with nothing more than a typewriter, a dream, and a calling to serve, my parents, Larry “Jay Price” Carter and Carolyn Carter, launched The Chronicle Newspaper in Lansing, Michigan. Originally founded as The Lansing Editorial, later renamed The Capital Chronicle, and ultimately rebranded as The Chronicle Newspaper, it wasn’t just ink on paper—it was community history being written in real time. A voice for the unheard. A mirror for the Black community. A reminder that our stories mattered, even when mainstream media said otherwise. Thirty-nine years later, that mission hasn’t changed. But oh, how we’ve grown. What began as a family-run paper birthed in our living room has evolved into a multigenerational force in community journalism—growing from a grassroots bulletin into a respected re-

past while empowering the future.

gional media platform with national reach. We’ve survived economic downturns, shifting political winds, and technological revolutions—and still, The Chronicle stands. Why? Because we never forgot who we serve.

A Platform with Purpose

We’ve covered the stories others ignored—neighborhood leaders, youth innovators, church events, local businesses, family reunions, and Black excellence in all its forms. While others chase headlines, we stay rooted in truth, context, and culture. The Chronicle has never been just a newspaper. It’s a living archive of hope, protest, progress, and pride. From city hall to street festivals… from front porches to boardrooms… we’ve chronicled our history with care, clarity, and courage.

A Legacy Built on Community

This anniversary isn’t just about what we’ve published—it’s about who made it possible. To every family who picked up a copy at the barbershop, every reader who clipped a story for their fridge, and every young person who saw their name in print and realized they mattered—you are The Chronicle. To the DJs, deacons, dancers, daycares, and dreamers—we’ve printed your stories with pride. We've been your media partner, your amplifier, your reminder that your legacy deserves to be

documented. And to the advertisers and sponsors who have stood beside us, year after year—thank you. Your investment in Black-owned media has helped keep this press rolling and this mission alive. From Past to Future As we move toward our 40th year, The Chronicle isn’t slowing down. We’re expanding into podcasting, digital publishing, youth media training, and documentary storytelling. Through the Sunday Chronicle and with new platforms like the Southside Business Chronicle, we’re laying the foundation for the next generation of truth-tellers. The work ahead is big—but so is our commitment. This legacy wasn’t inherited by accident. It was built with vision, sacrifice, sweat, and soul. And I promise you this: As long as there are stories to tell, communities to uplift, and truths to print—The Chronicle will be there. Thank you for 39 years of trust, love, and ink. We’re just getting started.

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Jay Price "The Morning Mayor" Honoring the Life and Legacy of A Founding Voice of Lansing Michigan'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 format 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 trusted voice for the Black community.

Mentor to the Mic Masters

Jay’s presence in the music and broadcasting world helped shape a generation of DJ talent, including:

• DJ Crazy Caz, whom he worked with early in his career

• Timothy “TJ the DJ” Jackson, whom Jay mentored and who helped name Caz

• Rob Roy “The Lover Boy” Nelson, whom Jay encouraged to go on-air

• Dexter Chandler (Dexter C.), a respected radio collaborator

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Courtesy Photo — Publisher Yanice Jackson leads The Chronicle into its next era with purpose, pride, and a passion for truth-telling. She carries forward a 39-year legacy of community-centered Black journalism, honoring the

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.