The Chronicle News Number 43 December 1-15 2023

Connecting Communities Happy Holidays

Securing a Legacy

n The Verna D. Holley Project

The Verna D. Holley Project aims to engage the Greater Lansing community through the power of community, mentorship, and legacy in music. Named for the legendary Music Educator and Pianist Verna D. Holley.

The Verna D. Holley Project launched on Monday, September 11, 2023, at Bethlehem Temple (The Bread House) Lansing, Michigan. The Verna Dorsey Holley choral ensemble continues a mission of preserving the tradition of the spiritual while broadening its scope to include other genres of music that have inspired the African American experience, all while honoring the legacy of Mrs. Verna Holley.

Mrs. Verna D. Holley, is a retired choral music educator, was born Detroit, Michigan well rounded education music education. Mrs. Holley's dedication to her craft

led her to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in music education at Wayne State University and a Master of Arts degree in music from Michigan State University.

Mrs. Holley's career in education includes her work as Fine Arts Director at J.W. Sexton High School in Lansing, Michigan, her dedication to musical education extended beyond her retirement, as she continued to impart her expertise by offering piano lessons from her residence.

Nominations Encouraged for Michigan Lottery’s Excellence in Education Awards

The Michigan Lottery is celebrating 10 years of recognizing outstanding educators with the 2023-24 Excellence in Education awards. During the program’s 10 years, the Michigan Lottery has recognized more than 300 public-school educators across

Michigan and highlighted the impact they have in their respective communities.

Nominations are currently open, and parents, students, school staff members,

and others are encouraged to nominate outstanding public-school educators for awards. All public-school employees may be nominated for the awards, which recognize educators who go “above and beyond” to

Courtesy Photo-The Verna D. Holley Project Community Choir.

Dana Elaine Owens (Queen Latifah) Grammy Award-winning artist, actress and activist

All Hail to the Queen!”

Dana Elaine Owens, better known publicly by her stage name ‘Queen Latifah,’ was born on March 18, 1970, in Newark, New Jersey. The stage name of Queen Latifah was self-chosen. It came about by, combining the nickname Latifah (لطيفة Latifa), meaning "delicate" and "very kind", in Arabic. Queen, originated from her desire to create a strong, black identity. Her title ‘Queen Latifah’ seems fitting as it seems to reference her height, Rubenesque figure and regal presence.

Dana is best known for her social politics, acting skills and gift for rhyme. She pos-

sesses a bevy of accolades, including a Grammy Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, a Golden Globe Award, three Screen Actors Guild Awards, and two NAACP Image Awards, in addition to a nomi nation for an Academy Award. In 2006, she became the first hip hop artist to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Many believe Dana to be not only one of the greatest rappers, yet one of the best entertainers of all time. Dana started out as a member of the Flavor Unit, later going solo and discovering her knack for addressing pressing issues for African American women.

This was timely as issues such as domestic violence, sexual assault and abuse were grained into the fabric of popular music.

This Day in Black History

December 4, 1915, marks the beginning of The Great Migration. On this day, millions of Black Americans fled the South in search of reprieve from racism, along with educational and economic opportunities in northern states.

Dana Owens (Queen Lati-

Queen Latifah

C Frank Ragnow named Detroit Lions' nominee for 2023 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award

Allen Park, Mich.— The Detroit Lions announced today C Frank Ragnow as its nominee for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award

Presented by Nationwide. The Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award presented by Nationwide is the league's most prestigious honor and acknowledges NFL players who excel on the field and demonstrate a passion for creating a lasting positive impact beyond the game in their communities.

LIONS C FRANK RAGNOW

"I am incredibly grateful to be recognized for one of the most prestigious honors in our League, especially while being on a team filled with so many guys who impact the community in different ways and have supported the Rags Remembered Foundation. My family and I take a lot of pride

in this Foundation, and to be able to help grieving families through the outdoors is something that we are very passionate about. This is a huge step in being able to help a lot more kids and families in the future."

LIONS HEAD COACH

DAN CAMPBELL

"Frank Ragnow is the ultimate teammate who lays everything on the line to help the person next to him. He deserves every aspect of this award for the work he has done with his Rags Remembered Foundation and the young lives he has touched. Frank's nomination as our team's Walter Payton Man of the Year is a special honor for a special person, and with the impactful platform that our players have, there is no greater honor."

In addition to competing as one of the top offensive linemen in the NFL, Ragnow

is known for his avid love of fishing and the outdoors that he cultivated with his father, Jon 'Rags' Ragnow. Following Jon's unexpected passing in 2016 while Ragnow was a student-athlete at Arkansas, he used the outdoors as an outlet for his grief. Embarking on a mission to help children experiencing loss through their own healing processes, Ragnow founded his own nonprofit in 2022 – the Rags Remembered Foundation – to help families foster the same passion he shared with his father. Ragnow consistently dedicates himself to the cause with a rare and altruistic sense of connection to the community he serves.

Each year, Ragnow and his Foundation hold a Fishin' for Memories outreach program where families can learn to fish from the two-time Pro Bowler and create lasting memories that provide children with an outlet for their grief. Each child receives their own fishing pole, supplies and gear while also having the opportunity to take a private boat tour with Ragnow with the goal of acquiring a newfound interest.

Ragnow also hosted his first-ever Camp Huddle Up for grieving children and their families this past offseason. Nearly 30 campers aged 4-17 spent the afternoon with Ragnow, his wife and teammates. They received the opportunity to fish, learn archery,

build fires and enjoy the outdoors. Ragnow also provided resources for the children to meet with the grief team at Angela Hospice to reflect on their losses and remember their loved ones.

Throughout the season, Ragnow continuously makes it possible for the children involved in his Foundation to stay engaged. He hosts Huddle-at-Home game day watch parties for families who have lost a loved one, providing them with tailgate materials, food, signed gear and time spent with members of his own family. He also hosts charitable dinners called Night of Memories to mobilize funds for the families of southeastern Michigan that Ragnow brings light to in their darkest time.

Since joining the Lions as a first-round draft pick in 2018, Ragnow has made his mark as a leader in both the community and in the locker room. A two-time team captain, he was named Second-Team AllPro in 2020 and earned Pro Bowl selections in 2020 and 2022. Ragnow was also the Lions' nominee for the 2020 Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award.

Courtesy Photo-Frank Ragnow-Walter Payton Man of the year nominee 2024.

Lansing Fire Department to Host No Senior Without Christmas Event

LANSING , Mich.

- The Lansing Fire Department is proud to host the annual No Senior Without Christmas (NSWC) event on Thursday, December 7, 2023, from 9:00-11:00 AM at Lansing Fire Station 48 located at 815 Marshall Street, Lansing Michigan 48906.

NSWC is a community event that provides food, sanitizing products, household essentials, and holiday gifts to 400 homebound, poverty-level seniors aged 60 and older living in Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties who have limited or no family support.

Founded in 2000, NSWC began as an effort

54-A District Court Launches E-Filing Electronic Filing Starts November 28

LANSING, Mich. - The 54-A District Court today announced that they have reached the final stages of their MiFILE implementation and are ready to launch an e-filing court. 54-A District Court will officially begin accepting e-filings on November 28, 2023.

to brighten the holidays for just 20 elders in need. Today, NSWC has grown tremendously thanks to dedicated volunteers and participation from 15+ public safety agencies across the Tri-County area. NSWC is now Michigan's largest police and fire charity event. This year, NSWC aims to raise $55,000 to continue serving isolated and disadvantaged seniors in our community.

The Lansing Fire Department thanks NSWC founders and volunteers for their commitment to bringing comfort and joy to seniors during the holiday season. We look forward to continuing our partnership at this uplifting event.

Effective November 28, 2023, attorneys are now mandated to e-file as required by Michigan Court Rule 1.109(G)(3)(f). Self-represented litigants will have the option to e-file but will not be required to do so. If you are required to e-file pursuant to said Rule, exemptions may be requested.

The 54-A District Court Chief Judge Stacia Buchanan stated, “Court staff worked hard to bring this program to 54-A District Court. The changes will be new and challenging but will allow court users to make filings and serve others quickly. Our Court is looking forward to a more efficient use of technology in our civil cases.”

There are several resources available for users to learn more about MiFILE. Those

who need to file documents with the 54-A District Court can visit the Filer Information page at https://www.courts. michigan.gov/mifile-systems/mifile-filers-in-the-trial-courts/. In addition, there are video tutorials available online on the MiFILE YouTube Channel. ImageSoft, a contractor working with the State Court Administrative Office (SCAO) to build MiFILE, also hosts training webinars for users.

During this transition period from paper filings to e-filings, the MiFILE support team stands ready and prepared to work with the filing community to make this process as seamless as possible. Those who encounter any difficulties can contact the MiFILE support desk at: mifilesupport@courts.mi.gov.

“While this is a significant change, the 54-A District Court is excited and embraced the opportunity to provide e-filing to our community. This will create numerous efficiencies for the court and its constituents,” Judge Buchanan concluded.

THE HIP HOP NUTCRACKER

EAST LANSING, MI

— The mash-up dance party of the century is coming to Wharton Center for one night on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, at 7:30PM. Tickets are on sale now through the official Wharton Center Ticket Office, online at whartoncenter.com, or by calling 517.432.2000 or 1.800.WHARTON.

A classic story reimagined for contemporary audiences, The Hip Hop Nutcracker blends and remixes music and dance from Tchaikovsky’s 19th century ballet with the diverse influences of hip hop to create one of the most awe-inspiring dance performances of the modern era.

founding fathers, MC Kurtis Blow, who opens the show with a short set. The Hip Hop Nutcracker has taken these performers to venues across the country with special performances for PBS and Disney+.

“The Hip Hop Nutcrack-

These characters complete feats of pure magic, much like the candy-coated land they explore, that will have you spinning on your head alongside them! Seeing the action live is worth every second and fills everyone with holiday cheer.

er turns Tchaikovsky on his head, in the coolest possible way.” —CBS

The performance features talented artists across many backgrounds including a dozen all-star dancers, a DJ, a violinist, and one of hip hop’s

Celebrate The Holidays With The Lansing Symphony Orchestra

LANSING, Mich. — As the holiday season approaches, the Lansing Symphony Orchestra (LSO) is thrilled to announce the annual tradition of the Holiday Pops concert.

“As always, we are keeping the majority of the program a surprise for our concertgoers, but the audience is sure to hear holiday classics alongside their favorite pop tunes,” said Timothy Muffitt, LSO music director and conductor. “We greatly enjoy balancing the tradition and new music to make it interesting for those that attend year over year. As an orchestra, we always look forward

to this time spent with the community.”

The musical experience will feature a combination of classical arrangements and beloved seasonal tunes with guest vocalist Teri Hansen.

Teri Hansen has received international recognition for her crossover abilities as a

singing actress from Opera to Broadway and concert stages worldwide. Hansen made her Broadway debut in ‘The Boys from Syracuse’ and starred in London’s West End in Hal Prince’s Tony award-winning production of ‘Show Boat’. Most recently, she starred in the na-

Come in from the cold and warm your hearts with a journey that celebrates love, community, and the magic of the holiday season with The Hip Hop Nutcracker at Wharton Center.

COVID-19 health and safety protocols continue to evolve. Please visit the Wharton Center website at whartoncenter.com/covid-19 to review the most up-to-date information and requirements.

tional tours of ‘The Sound of Music’ and ‘An American in Paris.’ Internationally recognized as an interpreter of Weill, Hansen starred as “Rose” in the film version of Kurt Weill’s Street Scene. Hansen also toured for years with Marvin Hamlisch, appeared at the Lincoln Center singing Rodgers and Hammerstein, and made regular appearances there as a part of the prestigious “Meet the Artist” series.

GET BACK TO WHAT MOVES YOU

At McLaren Greater Lansing’s Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute, our goal is to get you back to your life safely, comfortably, and as quickly as possible. From hips to knees to shoulders, expert care is close to home.

Learn more at mclaren.org/lansingorthopedics.

McLaren Greater Lansing Now Offering Expectant Parents Birthing Classes

n McLaren Greater Lansing Now Offers a Unique Experience for Expectant Parents with the Addition of Birth Classes

Welcoming a new baby into the family comes with a lot of excitement, but also preparation. Attending a birthing class in the weeks leading up to labor and delivery offers several benefits to new parents to help them better understand the birthing process, explore pain management options, and learn more about infant care.

“Expectant parents now have the unique opportunity to participate in our new labor support classes located right at the hospital,” said Melissa Baird, MSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM, manager of patient care services at The Birthplace at McLaren Greater Lansing. “This one-day course is led by an experienced nurse educator and gives an exclusive perspec-

tive where patients learn more about the birthing process at McLaren along with a tour of the facility that will better prepare them for the big day.”

New parents who attended birthing classes often say they felt more prepared going into their delivery. The birthing class held at McLaren Greater Lansing is a one-day class, making it convenient for expectant par-

ents juggling busy schedules.

“Our patients will get to learn more directly from McLaren nurses,” said Allison Claeys, RNC-OB, C-EFM, clinical nurse educator who is teaching the program.

Space-Maximizing Tips for Families in Small Homes

Living in a small home with multiple people can be difficult, especially when it comes to finding space. However, with a little creativity, you can make the most out of every square foot and create a comfortable and functional home for your family. Start your journey by looking at these space-maximizing tips for families in small homes now!

Choose Furniture Wisely

Your furniture can have a significant impact on the overall feel of the room. Opt for lightweight, airy, and visually simple pieces. Bulky furniture can make the room feel small and non-inviting. If you have your heart set on a larger piece, like a sectional sofa, make sure it doesn’t overwhelm your space.

Regularly Declutter

When living in a small home, regularly decluttering is a must. There’s not enough room to hold onto items that are no longer useful.

Create a routine with your family and ask everyone to go through their belongings and get rid of things they no longer

 THE VERNA....

Mrs. Holley assumed the role of pianist and music director for the Earl Nelson Singers, a musical ensemble founded in 1963 by Earl Nelson. The Earl Nelson Singers Company, comprised of talented vocalists from the Lansing, Michigan region, became a platform for Mrs. Holley to curate and direct performances featuring sacred songs of enslaved individuals. Their repertoire notably encompassed the early "gospel" style, showcasing her versa-

need. For example, old children’s toys, clothing, or appliances can go to thrift stores or donation centers.

Create Storage Everywhere

Storage is key to keeping a small home tidy. But limited room can make it seem that you have only a few storage options. Fortunately, that’s not true!

The solution is to create storage spaces everywhere you can. Use wicker baskets, wall shelves, hanging organizers, and under-bed storage solutions to create more room.

Don’t forget about optimizing storage areas like closets or cabinets. For example, installing a second closet rod is an

tility and commitment to preserving musical traditions.

J.W. Sexton High Graduate Mr. LaVonte' Heard is a music aficionado and the founder and Artistic Director of the Verna D. Holley Project (VDHP). He is also the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Transcendence Performing Arts Center (TPAC) - a 501c (3) Non-Profit Organization which is over the VDHP.

TPAC Inc, is a gateway to performing arts possibilities globally, ensuring youth, espe-

organization idea for children’s closets. It doubles storage capacity, allowing kids to store more clothes.

Repurpose Spaces

Living in a small home means repurposing spaces as you need them. That coat closet can be a workspace or study area, and a deck can be a mini playground for your kids.

Furthermore, you can use the basement as a workout area, storage space, or an extra bedroom. Ultimately, it’s all about being creative in identifying ways you can repurpose your space!

Create Room Dividers

Another space-maximizing tip that can help families living in smaller homes is to use room dividers. You can do this in a number of ways, like using bookshelves, curtains, or folding screens to create zones. Dividers create visual separation between different areas and offer a sense of privacy. Whether you’re looking to create an indoor toy area for kids or define living spaces, room dividers are an excellent option to consider.

cially those in the Greater Lansing Community, have access and exposure to world-class pedagogy and opportunities. LaVonte established VDHP to respond to the imperative of preserving African American concert music within the City of Lansing, MI. His journey in music began as a student under the tutelage of Verna Holley during his childhood, and he attributes much of his career's success to her mentorship.

Mrs. Holley’s remarkable journey as an educator, mu-

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sician, and community leader stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment to the arts and education, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Lansing, Michigan and beyond.

To learn more about TPAC Inc, and the VDHP visit https:// www.tpacworldwide.org or stop by Bethlehem Temple (The Bread House) Church 1518 S. Washington Avenue, Lansing for the 'Behold the Star' concert taking place on December 11th, 2023, at 7:00 PM.

Justice League of Greater Lansing Michigan recognizes Reparations Monday

n Focus of Monday after Thanksgiving is on reparations giving to Black-led Organizations

LANSING, Mich. — Move over Cyber Monday. A newly designated day on the Monday after Thanksgiving promotes giving to Black-led organizations focused on reparations for African Americans.

It is Reparations Monday.

An advocate of Reparations Day in mid-Michigan is the Justice League of Greater Lansing Michigan. The reparations charity is addressing the racial wealth gap between Black and

white people. It has raised more than $350,000 for scholarships and grants that will support education, home ownership and entrepreneurship.

“Reparations Monday aims the spotlight on Blackled reparations groups working for justice and healing for centuries of human rights violations,” said Willye Bryan, founder, Justice League of Greater Lansing Michigan. “When we succeed the en-

tire community benefits, and we’re one step closer to what Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. termed the “Beloved Community” — a place where we all share equally and proudly the fruits of our collective labor.

“We invite the public to learn about and support our journey to justice. We want to build a more equitable future –to heal together and repair the breach in our community.”

Movement for Black Lives,

an umbrella nonprofit for 50 organizations, dedicated Reparations Monday. The national group works to achieve advancements in areas that affect Black people by hosting conversations and creating a shared movement-wide strategy.

The Rise of the Side Hustle Economy: Embracing New Opportunities

By J. Domonick Dixie

In recent years, the side hustle economy has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity and widespread adoption. Driven by technological advancements, shifting work patterns, and a desire for financial independence, individuals from various backgrounds are increasingly turning to side hustles to sup-

plement their income and pursue their passions. This article explores the growing trend of side hustles, discussing its advantages, drawbacks, and the opportunities it presents.

The side hustle economy offers numerous benefits. First and foremost, it provides a means to diversify income streams. With traditional employment often offering limited financial security, side

hustles offer a way to generate additional revenue and build a financial safety net. Moreover, side hustles often allow individuals to pursue their passions and hobbies, transforming them into profitable ventures. Whether it's starting an online store, freelancing, or monetizing creative skills, side hustles provide an avenue for personal and professional growth. Additionally, side

hustles offer the flexibility to set one's own hours and work from anywhere, enabling individuals to strike a balance between work and personal life.

However, the side hustle economy is not without its challenges. Scan

make a difference in the lives of children. To nominate a public-school educator, go to https://www.michiganlottery. com/excellenceineducation.

“Public-school educators play a critical role in our students’ lives by serving as role models, offering encouragement and motivation, and teaching critical skills that prepare Michigan’s students for future success,” said Acting Lottery Commissioner, Jessica Weare. “The Lottery’s Excellence in Education awards shine a light on dedicated educators who go above and beyond for their students and inspire them to reach their full potential.”

The Michigan Lottery established the Excellence in Education awards in 2014 to recognize outstanding public-school educators across the state during the school year.

One outstanding educator will be selected each week and will receive a $2,000 cash prize. At the end of the school

year, one of these weekly award winners will be selected to receive the Lottery’s Educator of the Year award and will receive a $10,000 cash prize.

Winners of the weekly award are featured in a news segment on the Lottery’s media partner stations: WXYZ-TV in Detroit, FOX 17 in Grand Rapids, FOX 47 in Lansing, WNEM-TV in Saginaw, and WWTV-TV in Traverse City.

The winner of the 2023 Educator of the Year award was Kathryn Kluzak, a kindergarten teacher at Robert L. Green Elementary in East Lansing. Hundreds of educators were nominated during the 2022-23 school year, which was the ninth year of the Excellence in Education awards program.

Thirty-four of these nominees, including Kluzak, were selected to win a weekly award. Previous winners of the Educator of the Year award:

2022 – Spencer Vanderhe-

ide, a high school teacher with Kenowa Hills High School in Grand Rapids.

2021 – Janice Smith, a school social worker at Fisher Magnet Lower Academy in Detroit. 2020 – Megan Sidge, an Autism Spectrum Disorder teacher at Hickory Woods Elementary in Walled Lake.

2019 – Stewart Kieliszewski, an Earth science, biology, mechatronics, and media teacher for eighth through 12 graders at the Ubly Community Schools.

2018 – Kerri Moccio, a first-grade literacy intervention specialist at Bedford Elementary School in Dearborn Heights.

2017 – Linda Holzwarth, a social studies teacher at Portage West Middle School in Portage. 2016 – Daniel Carr, a Spanish and sports marketing teacher at Waverly High School in Lansing.

2015 – Michael Craig, a special education teacher at the Charles Drew Transition

Center in Detroit.

Excellence In Education award nominees should demonstrate the following qualities:

4Excellence – Their work consistently helps students and/or their schools or school districts advance to higher levels of academic achievement.

4Dedication – They consistently go above and beyond expectations to help students succeed.

4Inspiration – Their work inspires others around them to exceed expectations either academically or professionally.

4Leadership – They demonstrate clear leadership skills in their positions with their school or school districts.

4Effectiveness – The nominee’s work has clear and positive results on the educational advancement of students within the school or school district.