The Chronicle News No 99 | June 16–30, 2026 | The Sound Of Legacy

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Vol. 7 No. 99  JUNE 16TH — JUNE 30TH 2026

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The Sound of Legacy

BLACK MUSIC MONTH - COMMUNITY VOICES - CULTURE - HISTORY - EXCELLENCE

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

The Chronicle News

Celebrates 40 Years of Life, Love and Legacy

A Note From the Publisher | Every Generation Has a Sound

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s we celebrate Black Music Month and continue our 40th year of serving the community, I find myself reflecting on the power of voices. Every generation has a sound. Sometimes that sound is found in the spirituals that carried hope through unimaginable hardship. Sometimes it is found in the jazz clubs, church choirs, Motown hits, spoken word performances,

The Chronicle Publishing Co Launches New Community Coloring Book “I Know I Can” Celebrating Local Leaders, Literacy, and Possibilities

McLaren Health News Important health updates and wellness tips. >>> Page 4 Westland Entrepreneurs Local couple turns creativity into a successful brand. >>> Page 7

40 DUBB Podcast And The Chronicle News Partner To Premiere Powerful Interviews With Dr. Monica Allen And Mark Stiles

s The Chronicle News celebrates 40 years of serving Mid-Michigan, the organization is also investing in the future through one of its newest youth initiatives: the Chronicle Kids Community Coloring Book. The publica-

LANSING, MI — 40 Dubb Podcast, in partnership with The Chronicle News, will release two highly anticipated episodes on Friday, June 19, featuring distinguished Lansing natives Dr. Monica Allen and Mark Stiles.

Turn to Page 6 

Turn to Page 7 

A 40

Chronicle 40th Anniversary Recap.

A night to remember! Photos, honorees and highlights. >>> Page 2

Alfred Laurence of Beige Planet Photography | This legacy belongs to the community.”

Publisher and Editor Yanice Y. Carter speaks during The Chronicle News 40th Anniversary Legacy Gala, celebrating 40 years of community impact, culture, and connection.

Turn to Page 6  A NOTE FROM...

YEARS

Black Music Month Special Honoring the music that shaped our history and culture. >>> Page 2

THE CHRONICLE...

40 YEARS OF TELLING OUR STORIES CONNECTING COMMUNITIES THEN. AMPLIFIYING VOICES NOW.

40 DUBB...

The Chronicle News

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The Chronicle News Celebrates 40 Years of Life, Love and Legacy

BLACK HISTORY SPOTLIGHT MICHIGAN'S MUSICAL LEGACY

BY YANICE Y. CARTER ARETHA FRANKLIN The Queen of Soul Born in Memphis and raised in Detroit, Aretha's unmatched voice, talent and activism made her an international icon and a voice for empowerment.

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y heart is full. On June 6, 2026, The Chronicle News celebrated its 40th Anniversary Legacy Gala at Lansing Community College, bringing together generations of community leaders, supporters, friends, family members, readers, advertisers, vendors, and community partners for an evening centered around a simple but powerful theme: Life, Love and Legacy.

What began in 1986 as a vision by my parents, Larry “Jay Price” Carter and Carolyn Carter, has grown into a trusted community institution that continues to inform, uplift, and connect residents throughout Greater Lansing and beyond. As I looked around the room that evening, I was reminded that The Chronicle’s story has never been about one person. It has always been about community.

The evening was filled with powerful moments of reflection, celebration, and inspiration. Guests enjoyed heartfelt tributes, outstanding performances, community recognition, and opportunities to reconnect with individuals who have helped Scan to read shape our region over the full story last four decades. The atmosphere was filled with joy,

STEVIE WONDERA Musical Genius A child prodigy signed to Motown at 11, Stevie Wonder's music broke barriers and brought messages of love, joy and social change.

Celebrating Black Music Month: The Chronicle's Tribute to Iconic Sounds influences that comprise an essential part of our nation’s treasured cultural heritage.

Formerly called National Black Music Month, this celebration of African American musical contributions is re-established annually by presidential proclamation. Though by no means exhaustive, we’ve prepared a primer that will guide you through some of the different genres that African Americans have created, inspired and fostered.

Janelle Monáe performing in concert. Credit: Paras Griffin via WireImage

BY YANICE Y. CARTER

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une is African American Music Appreciation Month! Created by President Jimmy Carter in 1979, this month celebrates the African American musical

Sacred Music Sacred music, which includes spirituals and gospel music, illustrates the central role that music plays in African American spiritual and religious life. The earliest form of black musical expression in America, spirituals were based on Christian psalms and hymns and Scan merged with African music to read full story styles and secular American music forms. Spirituals

MARVIN GAYE The Voice of a Generation Through timeless classics like What's Going On, Marvin Gaye used his music to speak truth and inspire social consciousness.

DIANA ROSS

From Supremes to Superstar As the lead of The Supremes and a successful solo artist, Diana Ross helped define the sound and style of an era.

MOTOWN RECORDS The Sound of Young America Founded in Detroit in 1959 by Berry Gordy, Motown became the heartbeat of American music and launched the careers of countless legends.

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From Faith to Purpose: Bonita Mitchell’s “Believe, Don’t Give Up” Movement Inspires Hope, Healing, and Restoration

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s communities across the nation celebrate Black Music Month and honor the powerful role music plays in healing, empowerment, and social change, gospel recording artist, author, entrepreneur, and First Lady Bonita Mitchell is using her voice to launch a movement rooted in faith, resilience, and restoration. Through her new single, "Believe, Don’t Give Up," Mitchell is inviting individuals and families to rediscover hope through the Believe… Don’t Give Up! Rhythm & Resource Fair, a unique community initiative that combines music, mental health awareness, faith, self-care, and practical resources designed to uplift lives. The movement will officially continue this summer with two Michigan events.

4 Saturday, July 18, 2026, Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church, 2262 Mulder Drive, Niles, Michigan 4 Saturday, August 22, 2026, Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 100 Miller Street, Dowagiac, Michigan Both events will feature live mu-

Courtesy Photo: First Lady Bonita Mitchell

sic, powerful testimonies, wellness and community resources, pampering services, faith-based encouragement, and opportunities for individuals and families to connect with organizations dedicated to supporting mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

A Journey Decades in the Making Mitchell's message is not simply a song. It is a testimony. Born and raised in the small farming community of Eau Claire, Michigan, Mitchell describes herself as a "little red dirt-eating coun-

try girl" who often struggled with insecurities while growing up among her beautiful sisters. Yet even as a child, she discovered something powerful: her voice. At just five years old, she began singing songs by legendary musician Stevie Wonder, whose music and advocacy would become a lifelong source of inspiration. One of her favorite songs to perform was "All In Love Is Fair," and she credits Wonder's messages of love, perseverance, and compassion with helping to shape her own purpose.

"I learned early that God can take what you see as weakness and turn it into your greatest strength," Mitchell said. "My insecurities became the reason I wanted every girl and every woman to know they are beautiful, valuable, and worthy."

Determined to pursue her dreams, Mitchell studied Fashion and Merchandising and eventually relocated to Los Angeles, where she built a successful career in the fashion industry. Working in the renowned California Mart, she helped boutique owners across the country select and market exclusive

clothing lines. She later launched her own styling company with her sister, serving entertainers and industry professionals. Then came a moment that would forever change her life.

Styling for a Legend While working in Los Angeles, Mitchell had the opportunity to style Lula Mae Hardaway, the mother of Stevie Wonder. After helping Mrs. Hardaway find the perfect outfit for a special event, the grateful matriarch recommended Mitchell and her sister to Stevie's team. Soon afterward, Mitchell received a call that seemed almost impossible. She was invited to meet Stevie Wonder at his recording studio.

The little girl who had grown up singing his songs in rural Michigan suddenly found herself standing faceto-face with the artist who had inspired her dreams.

"I couldn't Scan believe it to read was hapfull story pening," Mitchell re-

Empowering Communities Through Faith The Inspiring Journey of Pastor Terence & Co-Pastor Shantelle Hawkins

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eet Pastor Terence Hawkins and Co-Pastor Shantelle Hawkins of Mt. Zion Church of Deliverance, a faith-leadership powerhouse answering the call to spread the gospel and touch the heart of the community through outreach. Their approach blends legacy and holiness with music, empathy, and modern tools, meeting people where they are and inviting them into a life made whole.

The Chronicle’s connection to Mt. Zion began at Zion Fest, a neighborhood celebration alive with music, laughter, and the easy warmth of a family reunion.

Publisher Yanice Jackson attended with her children and watched them lean into the joy of the day. “We stumbled onto Zion Fest while parking for another event across the street,” she said with a smile. “Once we walked in, my kids didn’t want to leave. We were drawn to the spirit of the place, faith meeting action, love not only preached but practiced.”

For Yanice, the moment felt full-circle. Nearly 40 years ago, her parents founded The Chronicle Newspaper during the height of the War on Drugs to chal-

Courtesy Photo-(L to R) Co-Pastor Shantelle and Pastor Terence Hawkins of Mt. Zion Church of Deliverance, Jackson, Michigan.

Pastor.

lenge harmful stereotypes and amplify local voices.

“We wanted to be a voice for the community,” she said. “To highlight teachers, business owners, and pastors, the people doing the work.” With The Chronicle expanding regionally, Jackson felt led to partner

with Mt. Zion, combining platforms to lift good information, share resources, and keep underserved neighbors connected.

After attending the event, Yanice felt led to reach out to the church leadership. After leaving a couple of messages, she was able to reach someone from the church and set up a time to meet with Pastor Terence and Co-Pastor Shantelle Hawkins. "It was an absolute pleasure to sit down with the Hawkinses, as I was able to learn so much about the dynamic couple and the ministry." Said Yanice "I was excited to share my vision of connecting communities and to learn how both The Chronicle and Mt. Zion had quite a bit in common. I learned we both carry a significant legacy with the ability and willingness to combine the old with the new, allowing us to meet people where they Scan to read are and carry out the misfull story sions commissioned to us

by God." Quoted Jackson.

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A Healing Power: How Therapeutic Music Boosts Your Well-being

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usic can have a profound impact on someone’s well-being and has been shown to reduce stress, bring heart rates down, and even control breathing. At McLaren Greater Lansing, a healing environment is fostered through their therapeutic music program led by Drs. Melissa Straus and Tess Miller, to promote recovery and well-being.

“We recently hit a milestone of providing therapeutic music here at McLaren for 10 years now, and it’s been an exciting journey to be able to come in and play for patients and have a positive impact towards their healing,” said Dr. Miller, who plays the flute and ukulele and also sings during her sessions.

Drs. Straus and Miller typically visit McLaren Greater Lansing two to three times a week and play mainly at a patient’s bedside, but you can also see them performing in the lobbies of the hospital and Karmanos Cancer Institute for staff and visitors, along with performing at various events at McLaren including leading meditation sessions for leadership and staff.

“This service is really beneficial for everyone and can create a wonderful healing environment,” said Dr.

Courtesy Photo-Therapeutic Music Program at McLaren Greater Lansing.

Straus, who plays the bass and sings. “The hospital setting can be very stressful, so by playing music we can help those who may feel anxious or uncomfortable and find some relief.”

Trained in patient observation, Drs. Straus and

Miller observe the patient’s demeanor as well as their verbal and non-verbal cues to select the appropriate music to play. Changes in the patient's demeanor during the music session determine the type of music the practitioners play, and they will tailor musical preferences to their needs.

“We will often be asked to play certain songs or tunes they like, and we try our best to accommodate them as much as possible,” said Dr. Miller. “Music, even music that triggers a memory from them, can have such an impact on their day and their emotional and physical well-being.”

Increasing evidence shows that therapeutic music can be used as complementary therapy for a wide range of health conditions such as dementia, stroke, anxiety disorders, and cancer, and help people of all ages.

The therapeutic music program at McLaren Greater Lansing began in Scan to read 2015 and is funded by the full story McLaren Greater Lansing Foundation.

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Boots on Ground, Books in Hands

BY ROBIN M. PIZZO M.ED. DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION WKAR

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50,000 books into the tiny, curious, precocious and sometimes reluctant hands of children across mid-Michigan was never a goal Robin Pizzo, director of education at WKAR, considered reaching within six years.

Yet, with each event she attended as a public media and PBS KIDS community partner, the numbers exponentially increased as children selected their own brand-new, free book. Now in 2026, she along with WKAR’s education team has reached a tremendous milestone by providing over 150,000 free books to children birth to eighteen.

“As a former English Language Arts teacher, literacy coach and early childhood education administrator, my entire career was built on great literature and the love of reading. I’ve taught hundreds of lessons and offered professional developments across the globe about the power of reading as the key to opening a world of

education, aspisenteeism, povration, and acaerty, social demic success.” well-being and This belief has empathy. “The remained at the data is dismal forefront of Pizand heartbreakzo’s career even ing, but I still as reading bebelieve in the low proficiency power of books plummets to an to turn those all-time low of numbers around 72% for Michand increase igan’s fourth achievement graders and the in literacy and state of Michacademics.” igan dropping Courtesy Photo: 150,000 books. Countless dreams. Reading isn’t its state-to-state WKAR’s Robin Pizzo and her team continue to put the only indicaranking for ed- books directly into the hands of children across tor for a child’s ucation from 38 Mid-Michigan, helping build stronger readers, learn- well-being, but ers, and communities. to 43 according it’s a significant to the Annie E. one that must Casey Kids Count Databook. be addressed with literature-rich enviResearch shows there are many is- ronments in homes, schools, and comsues that impact a child’s academic munity spaces. growth, and Pizzo felt books could help “Today’s children are global and the learning ecosystem with problems what better way to learn about the world such as low reading proficiency, ab- around them and themselves from with-

Graduating Class of 2026 CONGRATULATIONS, YOU DID IT!

BY JUDGE WANDA STOKES

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t this important milestone, I’d like to extend my sincere congratulations and best wishes to the amazing Class of 2026! You have endured some unique events over the last few years and reached your goal!

As you reflect on your past journey of dedication and hard work, look forward to an amazing future of possibilities!

As you embark on the next chapter of your life, you will face numerous crossroads and decisions. I encourage you to remember the words of wisdom from Courtesy Photo: Judge Wanda Stokes, your parents and keep them in your 30th District Circuit Court Judge, Ingham heart. Let their wisdom guide you. I am County, Michigan proud to serve this community, and so very proud of each of you!

Blessings, and All the Best, Honorable Wanda M. Stokes, 30th Circuit Court Judge

in the pages of a book,” Pizzo stated.

Books are a small investment with major returns when championed with intentionality. This is why Pizzo included access to books for kids into WKAR’s education mission after she became education director in 2018. “Every child in every space is welcome to select a brand-new book of choice to keep. For many, this book is the first book they have ever owned. I love when their eyes light up and smiles spread wide across their faces as they realize the book is theirs to keep,” said Pizzo.

On average, WKAR’s education team attends fifty-five events per year.

These events include festivals, library pop-ups, school fairs and farmer’s markets. “We try to be wherever children and families are as a partner in learning.” Events can host between thirty to three hundred children. The team works with diligence Scan to ensure to read each child full story can select

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Young Men Find Mentorship and Purpose at IMOGUL Workshop

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n Saturday, my son Liam and I attended a parent and youth workshop hosted by the IMOGUL Mentoring Group at the Delta Township District Library. What we experienced was far more than an informational meeting. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of mentorship, community, and positive male role models in the lives of young people.

Founded and led by James E. Jackson Sr., IMOGUL, which stands for I Motivate Others to Give Unconditional Love-is dedicated to helping young men develop character, confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of purpose. Through its Polished Young Gentlemen’s Character Club, the organization teaches boys practical life skills while emphasizing compassion, responsibility, volunteerism, leadership, and education.

Throughout the presentation, Jackson shared the vision behind the program and explained how IMOGUL was created after observing that many young people entered adulthood academically

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Photo Credit: Chronicle Media Group-These young men represent the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, fathers, and change-makers. Through mentorship and guidance, they are building the confidence and character needed to make a lasting impact.

prepared but lacking critical interpersonal and professional skills. While many have diplomas and degrees, he noted that too few are taught the fundamentals of communication, eye contact, professional presentation, accountability, and relationship-building.

“We want our families to already have what it takes,” Jackson explained. “How do you know how to make eye contact?

How do you know how to shake a hand?

How do you know how to communicate effectively? Those things matter.”

Jackson also shared some of the personal experiences that helped shape his passion for mentoring. Growing up, he witnessed his mother navigate both schizophrenia and dyslexia, experiences that taught him resilience, compassion, and the importance of strong

A NOTE FROM.....................................................................................From Page 1

and hip-hop anthems that have shaped culture and inspired change. Music has always been more than entertainment within the Black community. It has been a form of storytelling, resistance, celebration, healing, and remembrance. In many ways, community newspapers serve a similar purpose.

For nearly four decades, The Chronicle News has documented the stories, achievements, struggles, milestones, and triumphs of our community. We have celebrated graduates, highlighted entrepreneurs, honored faith leaders, covered community events, and amplified voices that may otherwise have gone unheard.

Just as music preserves history through melody and lyrics, community journalism preserves history through photographs, articles, and shared experiences.

This edition reflects that legacy. Inside these pages, you will find stories of faith, mentorship, entrepreneurship, education, wellness, and community impact.

You will read about individuals who are making a difference today while helping to shape tomorrow. You will also see how

new platforms, such as our partnership with 40Dubb and the continued growth of Chronicle Kids, are helping to carry our mission forward by reaching new audiences and inspiring the next generation of storytellers.

As technology evolves and the ways we communicate continue to change, one thing remains constant: people still need connection. They still need stories that inform, encourage, educate, and inspire.

They still need opportunities to see themselves reflected in the pages of a newspaper, hear their experiences discussed on a podcast, or watch their children discover the joy of reading and learning.

Whether through a song, a newspaper article, a podcast, a photograph, or a child’s drawing, every generation leaves behind its own soundtrack. The Chronicle remains honored to help tell that story.

Thank you for allowing us to continue

Scan to read full story

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support systems. Those early lessons, combined with his professional and community leadership experiences, inspired him to create a program that equips young people with both practical skills and strong character foundations.

Rather than focusing solely on academic achievement, Jackson believes young people should be prepared for life. He often emphasizes the importance of communication, confidence, presentation, leadership, and relationship-building skills that help young men succeed at home, in school, and eventually in the workplace.

A central theme of the workshop was intentional family engagement.

Jackson introduced families to the concept of “Phones Down, Futures Up,” encouraging parents and children to set aside distractions and engage in meaningful conversations. Through guided discussion exercises, Scan participants to read p r a c t i c e d full story active lis-

THE CHRONICLE..................................................................From Page 1

tion, titled I Know I Can: Real People. Real Careers. Real Possibilities., was created to inspire young readers by introducing them to community leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, educators, public servants, and changemakers who are making a difference throughout the region.

Developed through Chronicle Kids, a youth literacy and enrichment initiative of The Chronicle News and Lansing Community Catalyst, the coloring book combines creativity, reading, career exploration, and positive representation in a format designed specifically for children. “We wanted children to see people who look like them doing extraordinary things,” said Chronicle Publisher Yanice Y. Carter. “Representation matters. When children can see successful business owners, judges, artists, educators, media professionals, and community leaders from their own communities, it expands what they believe is possible for themselves.”

The coloring book features illustrations and profiles highlighting local leaders from a variety of professions and backgrounds. Each page encourages children to learn about careers, leadership, entrepreneurship, service, and the importance of giving back to the community. Educational activities throughout the book help strengthen literacy skills, critical thinking, and vocabulary development while keeping learning fun and engaging. The project reflects The Chronicle News’ ongoing commitment to literacy and educational access. For decades, the newspaper has preserved community stories while creating opportunities for the next generation of storytellers, readers, and leaders.

Through Chronicle Kids, the organization continues to develop programs that proScan m o t e to read literacy, full story media

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The Chronicle News Small Business Spotlight: More Than a Print Shop | Chris and Britney Slater Turn Creativity, Community, and Trust into a Thriving Business

Courtesy Photo: IBRAND U owners Britney and Chris Slater display a proclamation recognizing their business and its impact on the Westland community. Less than two years after opening, the couple has earned a reputation for excellence while helping customers celebrate milestones, promote businesses, and preserve meaningful memories.

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eet Chris and Britney Slater. When they launched their marketing company, Initial Brands Inc., in 2012, they were focused on helping businesses establish strong and recognizable brands. Through website development, graphic

design, logo creation, social media marketing, and brand management services, they helped clients tell their stories and connect with their audiences. As their client base continued to grow, many schools, nonprofits, churches, and small businesses began asking for branded apparel, uniforms, and promotional merchandise. Those requests would eventually inspire a new business venture that neither of them initially anticipated.

For years, the Slaters referred apparel and promotional product requests to outside vendors because they did not have the equipment necessary to produce those items themselves. However, as the demand continued to increase, they realized they were sending a significant amount of business elsewhere. The couple began discussing what it would look like to bring those services in-house and create a seamless branding experience for their customers. That conversation became the foundation for what is now known as IBRAND U Print Shop, a growing Westland-based business that recently celebrated its second anniversary.

What began as an expansion of their marketing services quickly developed into a successful business in its own right. Today, IBRAND U offers custom apparel, embroidery, promotional products, branded merchandise, and a variety of printing services for customers across multiple industries. The business serves everyone from corporations and schools to nonprofits, content creators, entrepreneurs, and families. By

offering a full range of branding services under one roof, the Slaters have created a business model that allows customers to bring their ideas to life from concept to completion.

According to Britney Slater, one of the biggest lessons learned during the past two years has been recognizing just how valuable trust is in business. While there are many companies that offer similar services, she believes the relationships they have built with their customers have become one of their greatest strengths. Their strong customer retention rate has reinforced the importance of delivering not only quality products but also dependable service and consistent communication. She said their success has been driven by creating an experience where customers know they can rely on the team to deliver what was promised.

The journey to success has not happened without sacrifice. Britney explained that many people see the finished products but do not always witness the long hours required behind the scenes. There have been early mornings spent preparing orders before opening and late nights dedicated to meeting deadlines and ensuring customer satisfaction. Building a business, she said, requires discipline, consistency, and a willingScan ness to remain committed to read even when the work be- full story comes difficult.

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Dedicated to preserving and celebrating the stories, experiences, and legacy of those who grew up in Lansing during the 1970s and 1980s, 40 Dubb Podcast continues to build a digital archive of community voices that helped shape the city and its culture.

The June 19 releases feature two respected leaders whose journeys reflect the excellence, resilience, and pride that define the Lansing community.

Dr. Monica Allen shares her remarkable path as an educator, leader, mentor, and advocate for future generations.

Throughout the conversation, she reflects on the lessons learned growing up in Lansing, the importance of education, and her commitment to creating opportunities for others.

Mark Stiles, former Sexton High School Class President and member of

the celebrated musical group Three Men and a Tenor, reflects on lifelong friendships, school pride, leadership, and the bonds that continue to unite Lansing alumni decades later. His episode offers both humor and heartfelt memories while emphasizing the importance of supporting and uplifting one another.

Together, these interviews capture the spirit of a generation while providing inspiration for future generations.

"Every person has a story worth preserving," said Stephen Burnett, Executive Producer and Creative Director of 40 Dubb Podcast. "Through our partnership with The Chronicle News, we're creating a living archive of Lansing's history by capturing the voices, memories, and experiences of the people who helped shape our community."

40 Dubb Podcast was co-founded by Matt McKinnon and Ken Barnes, who also serve as co-hosts of the program.

The podcast continues to feature influential alumni, athletes, educators, artists, business leaders, and community members whose lives have left a lasting impact on Lansing. Both episodes will be available beginning Friday, June 19, across the podcast's social media platforms and streaming channels.

About 40 Dubb Podcast 40 Dubb Podcast: Stories From The Era is a Lansing-based storytelling platform dedicated to preserving the history, culture, and personal stories of individuals who grew up in Lansing during the 1970s and 1980s. Through authentic conversations and long-form interviews, the podcast documents the

people, places, and experiences that helped define a generation.

About the Partnership Through a new collaboration with The Chronicle News, 40 Dubb Podcast is expanding its mission of preserving Lansing's history by combining digital storytelling, community journalism, and historical archiving to ensure these stories remain accessible for future generations.

Media Contact Stephen Burnett Executive Producer & Creative Director40 Dubb PodScan cast: Stories to read From The full story Era

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