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Michigan Chronicle

Vol. 84 – No. 33 | April 21-27, 2021

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COMMENTARY

The Fight To Protect Your Vote

By David Baschal and James W. Ribbron Detroit Champions for Hope – Men of Hope

The Voting Rights Act of 1965, signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson, aimed to overcome legal barriers at the state and local levels that prevented African Americans from exercising their right to vote as guaranteed under the 15th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The Voting Rights Act is one of the most far-reaching pieces of civil rights legislation in U.S. history.

Though African Americans had a constitutional right to vote, they were often denied that right, especially in southern states. Poll taxes, literacy tests, and physical intimidation were among the methods used to prevent African American people from voting.

African Americans were paying taxes and fighting America’s wars, but were not allowed to vote when they came home from those wars. The struggle for the right to vote was a long and often bloody struggle that culminated in the 1965 law. But in 2013, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a key part of that law, allowing nine states that have historically suppressed African American voters to change their voting laws without federal approval.

Today, there are efforts in 43 states with legislation aimed at voter suppression, targeting people of color, urbanites, low-income communities, and other groups whose full participation in future elections is seen by Republicans as a threat.

The right to vote allows citizens the ability to bring change. Some conservatives have feared that if African Americans vote, they will vote as a block and impact issues and laws that matter to them. They are laser-focused on preventing certain people from voting.

Across the country, Republicans are trying to pass voter suppression laws. Why? They claim that it is to prevent voter fraud. However, we just had an election in which more people voted than have ever voted in this country and by any measure, it was a free and fair, safe, and secure election. Even Trump’s appointed head of cyber security, Christopher Krebs, called it the most secure election in American history. Then he was fired for stating the truth. The evidence that this was a free and fair election is overwhelming. In all 60 plus cases, Trump’s lawyers had to admit before judges that they had no evidence of their widespread voter fraud claims. In 2018, there was voter fraud, by Republican Mark Harris in North Carolina and he was caught. But there is no evidence of widespread voter fraud.

The Big Lie is that Joe Biden did not win the election. The Big Lie has hurt our country in numerous ways.

It led to the seditious attack on the U.S. Capitol. It has led to some people erroneously believing that the election results were not accurate.

Now, it has led to the far right proposing and even passing laws to suppress the vote.

See PROTECT

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Michigan’s GOP Aims to Suppress Black and Brown Votes

By Whitney Gresham

absentee ballots and allow only political parties to designate election challengers.

While the nation’s eyes have been on Georgia, its Governor and state legislators’ racist effort to suppress its Black and Brown citizens’ votes, Michigan Republicans have launched a similar assault of their own on democracy. And it is aimed squarely at undermining Black, Brown, and young Michiganders’ ability to exercise their right to vote, freely.

During a recent interview, Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson told MSNBC that it was a sad state of affairs that spoke more to the Republican Party’s lack of ability to engage voters with compelling ideas and policy proposals than any purported election fraud.

Republican legislators who control both the Senate and House chambers are expected to begin consideration of a host of voter suppression legislation they have introduced that either restricts or otherwise complicates voters’ ability to cast votes as quickly as they did during the recent 2020 Presidential and national elections.

According to the Michigan Secretary of State’s Office, a record of more than 5.5 million Michigan residents voted, with 3.3 million casting absentee ballots, a constitutional guarantee approved by voters in 2018 during a special referendum.

President Joe Biden defeated the twice-impeached scandal-plagued Republican incumbent, Donald Trump, in November. After winning the state by less than a percentage point over Hillary Clinton in 2016, Trump lost Michigan to Biden 50.6 percent to 47.9 percent.

Trump, however, lied and claimed that he won Michigan but was cheated out of his victory by voter fraud and corruption in Detroit and Wayne County. Although his complaint was a provable, demonstrable lie, the Michigan GOP, like the GOP in Georgia and elsewhere across the country, uses it as a pretense to push forth nearly 40 voter suppression bills under the guise of protecting election integrity.

However, their critics claim it is a thinly veiled effort to hinder the ability of likely Democratic voters, particularly Black, Brown and young voters, from having a voice in the election process.

A Senate Committee is expected to debate the Republican-sponsored bills that, according to critics, would among other measures, require absentee voters to mail in a paper copy of their ID with their ballot application, shorten the deadline for returning absentee ballots, bar clerks from purchasing prepaid postage for absentee ballot return envelopes and limit the secretary of state’s ability to help voters request an absentee ballot, require video surveillance of drop boxes for

“We’re seeing one political party, a major political party in this country, try to block access to democracy as opposed to simply just engaging in a dialogue over ideas and winning the vote through that,” she said. “I think what this also underscores is that the lies, the misinformation that we saw emerge throughout the post-election moment last year, that of course escalated into violence in the Capitol on January 6th, has now manifested itself in the outgrowth of these policies all across the states, all across the country.”

“So this is essentially a continuation of the big lie,” Benson said.

The Detroit NAACP organized a rally outside the Capitol in opposition to the legislation. Detroit NAACP Branch President Rev. Wendell Anthony echoed Benson’s sentiments to CNN in an earlier interview.

“This is a part of the continuous strategic treachery and seditionist activity that Republicans are engaged in around the country,” said Anthony. “We knew it was coming. We knew what they were doing in Georgia is not unique. This is part of a national strategy they have to suppress the Black and Brown vote in this country.”

“They cannot abide losing -- so they have concluded, if we cannot win, let us cheat. Let us go around them. Let us suppress them. Let us take their votes away. If we cannot add to our voting rolls, let us subtract from theirs -- that’s what this is about,” Anthony said.

However, Michigan Senate Republican leader Mike Shirkey tweeted that the proposed legislation is aimed at “making it easier to vote and harder to cheat.” Which is a lie.

Michigan Republicans have been endeavoring to openly suppress Black and Brown Michiganders’ votes for nearly 20 years. As far back as 2004, former Republican Senator Papageorge told the Detroit Free Press that Republicans had to

See SUPPRESS

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Derek Chauvin Found Guilty of Murdering George Floyd

By Sherri Kolade Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was found guilty of the murder of George Floyd, NY Times reported.

Chauvin was found guilty on all three of the charges of committing first-, second-and third-degree murder of Floyd, an unarmed Black man who repeatedly told Chauvin and other officers he was in distress and could not breathe.

On Monday, jurors in the Chauvin trial deliberated for more than four hours following a full day of closing arguments from both the prosecution and defense attorney. The prosecution rested the state’s case a little afternoon on Monday after addressing jurors for a little more than an hour and a half, imploring the panel to “believe their eyes” and what they saw in the extended video of Floyd’s detention and his subsequent death after Derek Chauvin kneeled on his neck for nine minutes and 29 seconds.

The attorney who delivered closing arguments for the state told jurors that “being big is not a crime” and that Chauvin wasn’t using reasonable force to restrain Floyd, but that he was inflicting pain, and that Floyd dies “looking into the eyes of strangers” rather than the

“And now the cause of justice is in … the hands of the people of the United States,” he added. “George Floyd mattered — he was loved by his family and friends. His death (shook) the conscious … of the whole world.”

He added that Floyd mattered because he was a human being.

“I urge everyone to honor the legacy of George Floyd … to continue the transformation of justice — it is in your hands now,” he said.

Michigan’s Community Leader’s weighed in on the verdict:

George Floyd face of a loved one as he called out for his mother.

Keith Ellison, the attorney general of Minnesota, spoke during a press conference live on CNN about how the verdict impacted the nation and world.

“Everyone involved has pursued one goal: justice,” he said. “We pursued justice wherever it led … I want to thank the community for giving us that time and allowing us to do our work — that long, hard painstaking work has culminated today,” Ellison said, adding that while he wouldn’t call today’s verdict as justice, but accountability, which he described as “the first step toward justice.”

Wayne County Executive Warren Evans called the verdict a turning point.

“The conviction of Derek Chauvin for the murder of George Floyd is, I hope, a turning point for our country and for policing in our country. As both a career law enforcement officer and a Black man, the video of the killing of George Floyd was difficult to watch. It was even more painful to witness people claim that what we all saw didn’t really happen. The jury today made clear with this verdict that this was exactly what we knew it was.

“George Floyd was murdered. George Floyd did not deserve to die that day.

See CHAUVIN

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April 21-27, 2021

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Chauvin Found Guilty From page A-1 George Floyd did not deserve to be treated with violence and disrespect by officers whose job it is to serve—not occupy—our communities.

“Too often and for too long, People of Color, especially Black men, have been expected to accept police violence as a part of life. This verdict makes clear that police violence is not acceptable.

It makes clear that Black lives do matter. Let us build on this moment of justice delivered toward a fairer, more equitable society for all.”

Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Lt. Governor Gilchrist issued the following statements after the verdict was delivered: “For George Floyd and his family, justice. For the rest of us, a reminder to continue pushing for justice in every corner of our society. My heart is with George Floyd’s family, and I want them to know that millions of Michiganders, Minnesotans, and Americans mourn with them. No verdict can bring George

Derek Chauvin back, but his legacy will live on. Last year, millions of people around the world spoke with a collective voice when we said Black Lives Matter.

Together, we will continue tackling the deep-rooted, structural racism and inequity present in our institutions and faced by Black Americans every day. Our work is just getting started. I think George’s daughter Gianna Floyd said it best, “Daddy changed the world.” -Governor Gretchen Whitmer “Today, justice was served for George Floyd and his family. As a Black

Protect Your Vote From page A-1 These laws are voter suppression. They are anti-American. They believe that if voter turnout is low, it favors Republicans. For our democratic republic to thrive, people must have the right to vote for their elected representatives.

Republicans have gone so far right that they know that they cannot win based on their ideas.

They fear losing elections and losing power. Instead of changing or amending their ideas to match the voters, they want to choose who gets to vote. They cannot win on their own agenda. They know their twisted views cannot win at the polls, so they are trying to prevent people from voting. This win-at-all-costs mentality is a loser for this country.

If there was real evidence of voter fraud, address it. However, you do not address voter fraud by voter suppression. There is no evidence of voter fraud. There is ample evidence of voter suppression and trying to legalize suppression across the country. That is why we need federal standards for elections.

Many states have reduced the number of polling places and put polling places further away from where minority voters live to try to reduce the number of people from those communities who vote.

The answer has been to make it easier to vote early and vote by mail.

Every state has had some form of absentee voting for many years and has put in place safeguards to make it work.

It is a good way to vote.

The success of so many people voting in free and

fair elections is not acceptable to the Republicans who believe in authoritarian rule.

Therefore, we must protect the right to vote.

In 2018, the people of Michigan overwhelmingly (67%-33%) voted to add to the Michigan Constitution: • No-reason absentee balloting • Same-day voter registration • Automatic registration of voters at the Secretary of State’s office unless the resident declines • Implementation of election auditing • Protect the secrecy of ballots • Protect military overseas voting

and

• The will of the people was clear, but the Republicans in the state legislature are trying to undermine that will.

Among their proposals are provisions that would: • Set strict voter ID requirements that would no longer allow voters without IDs to sign an affidavit attesting to their identity and vote normally; they would have to vote with a provisional ballot.

• Require making a copy of your ID if you mail in your ballot.

• Make it illegal to mail ballot applications unless the voter requests it • Make it illegal for voting officials, specifically the Secretary of State, to put ballot applications online.

• Allow only one single early voting day.

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man in America, I have felt the sting of racism and injustice personally, and too many of our brothers and sisters know the visceral pain and exhaustion that communities of color face every day. That is why we must honor George Floyd’s legacy and the legacy of countless others as we advance justice and tackle inequities through our words and deeds. We have to address the pain that so many individuals are feeling with purpose as we work towards restoring the respect that all individuals of color deserve. When we do that, we can ensure that everyone makes it home to their loved ones at the end of the day. This verdict is a good outcome, and it was made possible by the community organizers, faith leaders, and law enforcement officers, who had to courage to make their voices heard, but the work is not done. We must continue to press for policies that protect and expand access to justice and opportunity.” -- Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist This story was still • Add additional handling of ballots by clerks, which could be costly, but does not fund that cost.

• Shorten the time for returning mail-in ballots.

• Give themselves control over approving federal money for elections.

• Republicans are claiming that they are trying to make it easier for people to vote in Michigan, when the opposite is true.

The Detroit Champions for Hope Men of Hope Targeted Action Team call for action of everyone who cares about stopping voter suppression:

developing at the time of print. Stay tuned to MichiganChronicle.com for updates.

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Suppress Black and Brown Votes From page A-1

“suppress” the Detroit vote to succeed in that year’s elections.

The Michigan ACLU and Detroit NAACP have had to sue the Republican Party or challenge the former Republican Secretary of State Terry Lynn Land and Ruth Johnson to rig the Republicans’ elections through voter suppression activities or legislation every election cycle since then.

However, this super-charged effort to make it harder to vote in Michigan follows Michigan voters’ enthusiastic embrace of civil rights and other progressive organization’s successful efforts to expand voting access in the state.

As the Detroit Free Press noted, in 2018, Michigan voters by a two-to-one margin approved an amendment to the state’s constitution that guarantees its voters the right to cast ballots by mail without reason, mandates sameday voter registration, and more. The amendment also includes text specifying that the new rules “shall be liberally construed in favor of voters’ rights to effectuate its purposes.”

Then, in 2020, the Democratic-backed candidates won two state Supreme Court races -- flipping Michigan’s high court to a 4-3 Democratic majority.

Even as the Republicans in Michigan and across the nation continue on their furious pace to upend democratic rule, other voices are beginning to be heard in this fight for America’s future.

Corporate leaders of three dozen major Michigan companies, including General Motors, Ford, Blue Cross Blue Shield and Quicken Loans, issued a joint statement condemning Republican efforts to attack our democracy by suppressing the votes of fellow Americans.

In a joint statement, they said: “We represent Michigan’s largest companies, many of which operate on a national basis. We feel a responsibility to add our

voice as changes are proposed to voting laws in Michigan and other states.”

The statement set out several shared principles, including: • The right to vote is a sacred, inviolable right of American citizens.

• Democracy is strongest when participation is greatest.

• Safe are secure options are vital • Government must support equitable access to the ballot.

• Government must avoid actions that reduce participation in elections, particularly among historically disenfranchised communities.

• Election laws must be developed in a bipartisan fashion.

Their statement follows rising concerns in America’s business community over Republican efforts to establish what many activists are warning is a return to some of America’s darkest days, including Jim Crow.

“These Republican legislators are trying to make Michigan in 2021 be no different than Mississippi in 1951,” said Rev. Horace Sheffield III, the pastor of New Destiny Christian Fellowship, and president of the Detroit Chapter of the National Action Network. “The only difference is they don’t want us to count the peas in pot or the number of bubbles in a bar of soap. They only thing is missing is their white sheets.”

Sheffield warned the Republican leaders don’t realize they are dealing with an explosive situation with a new generation of African Americans who are not going to take their threats to their citizenship lightly.

“They need to know they are not dealing with Negroes anymore,” he said.

“They are dealing with radicalized young Blacks who are not going for that. They are not going back.”

• Register to vote and vote in every election. Do not give anyone a chance to purge your registration by missing even an offyear primary.

• Contact your state representative and state senator to tell them you are opposed to these voter suppression bills.

• Contact Republican state senators and state representatives and make it clear that you oppose these voter suppression bills.

• Contact people you know in Republican held districts and have them contact their legislators to oppose these voter suppression bills.

• Voting is one of our most important rights as citizens. There are still people today who do not want some people to vote. It is time to stand up and protect this precious right. The struggle that some thought was over in 1965 continues. Voter suppression can be and must be overcome.

Substance Use Providers Learn How to Help Others During Pandemic By: Jaren Roberts, Communications and Community Outreach Liaison

https://www.facebook. com/detroitchampionsforhope/

The current pandemic has negatively impacted communities in various ways ranging from illness and death, depression and job loss, food scarcity, an increase in substance use and more.

The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence – Greater Detroit Area (NCADD-GDA) has programs and services that help youth ages 13-18, young adults 18-26, and parents. One of their most popular programs, “STEPS” (Strong Teens Excelling in Prevention Services) focuses on Drug Prevention for youth.

“As an organization with over 70 years of prevention, treatment, recovery and advocacy experience, the staff and the Board of directors are very pleased to partner with DWIHN to deliver innovative strategies with evidencebased practices to individuals and families in Wayne County communities,” said Dr. Benjamin A. Jones, President/CEO of NCADD-GDA. As a Provider of DWIHN, like many organizations, it has had to exchange its face-to-face programming for virtual platforms.

“STEPS is an incredible program at NCADD. It helped shaped me into who I am today. It taught me to stay away from drugs and be aware of the people around me, regardless if they were a bad influence on me or not”, said George, a participant and junior at Cass Technical High School in Detroit. “Before COVID happened, I would attend in-person college tours where I learned so much about different majors and was exposed to life on campus. Because of this program, I received a paid summer internship at MIT.” Participants are still able to stay engaged in the educational lessons related to SUD while having fun with virtual after-school programs that include, prevention Family Feud, poetry, and other activities.

NCADD has assisted families with their mental health, suicide prevention, and more. Many of the youth participants have shared their feelings of depression, and not having that sense of normalcy they once knew. They also help youth secure summer employment, scholarships for college, and build their self-esteem and decision-making skills to help them navigate this road called life.

https://hopestartsheredetroit.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/HSH-FullFramework_2017_web.pdf

If you or someone you know needs help, please call DWIHN’s 24/7 HelpLine at 1-800-241-4949.

DWIHN is Here to Talk. Here to Help.

James W. Ribbron David Baschal Heaster Wheeler Dr. George Swan Luther Keith Rev. Larry Simmons Stephen Wallace Dan Pitera Furqan Khaldun Charles Cross Robert Weed The Very Rev’d Scott Hunter Derek Blackmon, Sr. Who and what is Hope Starts Here – Detroit Champions for Hope? https://hopestartsheredetroit.org/

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Comerica Bank to Support National Black Men in Leadership Summit presented by Michigan Diversity Council Nate Bennett and Marvin Rushing to serve as a panelist and moderator.

When the ichigan Diversity ouncil D presents the ational Black en in eadership Summit later this month, it will feature e tensive support from omerica Bank that combines title sponsorship and subject matter expertise from leaders in diversity, equity and inclusion.

Taking place on Tuesday, April 27 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET, the event, in partnership with the ational Diversity Council (NDC) and the National Coalition for Racial Justice & Equity (NCRJE), focuses on the theme “Advancing Black Male Leaders: The Voice, Truths and Power of Black Men.” Among ortune 00 companies, less than one percent of E s are Black. According to ortune, today, there are only four Black E s. ver the past two decades, there have only been 18 Black CEOs in total.

Nate Bennett, Comerica Marvin Rushing, Comerica Despite progress over the years, Black men contin- Bank Chief Diversity Officer Bank Vice President and ue to be underrepresented in the -Suite, boards and and Senior Vice President, Retail District Manager executive leadership teams,” said Dennis Kennedy, the Head of Talent Acquisition founder and board chairman of the ational Diversity ouncil. t is time to commit to increasing advancement opportunities for Black men in workplaces and communities.”

The ational Black en in eadership Summit brings together successful Black male leaders who will offer their perspectives and e periences. The overall goal is to educate, inspire, and encourage attendees to re ect on their own goals and status as they strive to advance within their respective organizations. The Summit also hopes to help companies embrace and champion policies that move towards racial equity and inclusion in the workplace.

After opening remarks that kick off of activities at a.m., the Summit shifts into high gear with keynote address from Detroit native Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, who is Centennial Chair at Vanderbilt University and serves as niversity Distinguished Professor of African American and Diaspora Studies in the ollege of Arts and Science and niversity Distinguished Professor of Ethics and Society in the Divinity School.

Dyson is also a ew ork Times contributing opinion writer, political analyst on S B and a contributing editor of The ew epublic and of ESP ’s The Undefeated website. ollowing the keynote address, the Summit transitions into general panel discussions, and breakout sessions that focus on leadership development and advancement topics. ver 0 panelists fill the agenda offering expertise from a wide range of corporate, legal, philanthropic, entrepreneurship sports and media backgrounds. hief Diversity fficer ate Bennett will represent omerica Bank on one of the event’s featured panel discussions. At 0 p.m., he will lead the conversations on “Development, Empowerment, and Success Panel that following topics ultivating Success Developing our eadership Pipeline oving Beyond Diversity Toward Racial Equity: Balancing the Scales The ole ace Plays in eadership Development and Advancement and Succeeding nder ire What t Takes To Be A Successful Black an. begins at

0 a.m., is Black

ale

The first breakout session of the program, which entorship and Why Are They Essential and What are ou Doing

The in-depth discussion promotes mentoring as a great opportunity to deliver a rewarding and potentially life-changing experience for both the mentor and the mentee.

The benefits of mentoring consists of a myriad of opportunities. or individuals, good mentoring can lead to greater career success, including promotions, raises, and increased opportunities.Also in the context of youth, both formal and informal mentoring have the potential to benefit in a wide range of areas while bridging opportunity gaps for black male youth.

See NATIONAL BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP SUMMIT page A-4

Detroit Public Library Celebrates 100-year Anniversary; Continues to Serve Community During Pandemic

The ain Detroit Public ibrary DP cially 100 years old.

is offi-

The historic building was designed by Architect, ass ilbert, boasting a beautiful talian enaissance style of architecture.To commemorate the milestone anniversary, the library celebrated during National Library Week, April 4 through April 10. During the week, DP invited the community to enjoy its services with an initiative called “Welcome to your Library.”

The Mobile Library remains operational and continues to serve several neighborhoods and closed branches.

“The theme for National Library Week, April -10, Welcome to our ibrary,’ fits perfectly with DP ’s centennial recognition of the opening of our iconic ain ibrary on Woodward Avenue,” said Jo Anne G. Mondowney, executive director, Detroit Public Library.

When ain ibrary opened for service in 1 1, it was described as Detroit’s foremost show building.’ Since then, it has been a welcoming place for thousands of Detroiters and others, who have entered its doors en oy the library’s many programs and services.”

One addition that the Detroit Public Library has made due the ongoing pandemic to keep library users safe is curbside service.

n arch of 0 0, the DP made service adaptions to ensure the whole community had proper access to its resources.

The entire DPL staff worked diligently to continue services vital to many Detroiters, with an overall objective to maintain a safe, manageable and sustainable level of library services and programs

when D-1 is e pected to continue to impact the community in 2021.

To start, DPL has received safety and health certification from S nternational, a global, independent organization that facilitates development of public health standards. ortunately, several of the services implemented during the pandemic that proved to be highly useful and popular with the public, including virtual reference service, curbside pickup of materials, grab and go kits, and computers for remote use will remain in place.

These adaptations focused largely on providing digital services so Detroit residents and library card holders could enjoy its offerings from home.

DPL will continue to grow online programming and electronic educational support for children and families, such as ABCmouse, Lynda.com and Tutor.com.

Now, residents of Detroit and Highland Park can go online and use a variety of digital programs, including: LinkedIn Learning Library: sers can choose from thousands of online courses to learn in-demand skills from industry experts.

2021 African American Booklist: A bibliography that pro-

See DETROIT PUBLIC LIBRARY page A-4

Page A-4 • michiganchronicle.com • March 17-23, 2021

Comerica Bank Hosts 2021 Virtual Women’s Business Symposium

The Comerica Bank Women’s Business Symposium is back and will return as a virtual event after a highly successful 2020 WBS which pivoted to a virtual platform due to the pandemic.

The Comerica Bank Women’s Business Symposium has been one of the most sought-after events for thousands of attendees across the Comerica footprint for over 15 years.

Last fall, the new format did not slow the excitement and engagement. More 1500 guests attended the first online WBS.

Comerica Bank’s Microaggressions Panel during Women’s History Month

Comerica Bank Celebrates Colleagues for Women’s History Month

You’re not alone. That was an overriding theme for a weeklong virtual program in March marking both Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day.

Developed specifically for women, this event provides business owners, executives and professionals an opportunity to Learn, Connect and Grow professionally, personally and financially.

The five-day event was organized by Michigan’s Women’s Forum, a Comerica employee resource group.

Comerica executive WBS host and Executive Director of the Retail Bank Cassandra McKinney will kick off WBS and Chef Jamie Gwen will return as Emcee. Gwen has served emcee many of Comerica’s live Women’s Business Symposiums around the country over the years.

The keynote speaker this year will be Reshma Saujani, founder and CEO of Girls Who Code and author of the best-selling book “Brave, Not Perfect.”

Comerica Bank invites interested participants to attend its annual Women’s Business Symposium from 12:30-3:30 p.m. ET on Friday, May 14.

All registration fees and sponsorship payments collected will be donated by Comerica Bank to charitable organizations supporting women and girls.The four non-profits are Alternatives for Girls (Michigan), Genesis Women’s Shelter (North Texas), Girls, Inc. of Orange County, California and Houston Area Women’s Center.

COMERICA WBS 2021: Join Comerica Bank for its virtual Women’s Business Symposium on May 14, 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

To register for the symposium, which cost $30, visit www.events.comerica.com/wbs2021.

Like many things affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, the rich program of panel discussions, workshops and presentations was held virtually, rather than in-person as it was last year.

Shaelese King, Comerica Technology Engineering Collective Development Program Lead, AVP, explains, it was vital to make sure these resources were available to women at the company who may feel stressed by the twin demands of work and personal life.

“You want to continue to build up one another. Let women know that Shaelese King right now we’re going through a lot because if you have kids— well, I say I’m the gym the teacher, I’m the music teacher, I’m the lunch lady, step into all these roles,” said King.

“It’s important for women to know while you’re filling all these roles, it’s also okay to take time for yourself. It’s okay to keep your mental health strong. It’s okay for you to want things as you strive to move forward in your career or personal or professional life.”

Among the offerings during the week of March 8-12 were sessions titled “Women as Allies,” “Meditation Monday” and “Lean-in Circles.”

Closing event of the virtual discussion for Women’s History Month “Women as Allies” was a panel discussion with some leaders from across the organization. King explained they came in and talked about what it means to be an ally to other women, what it means to provide support, guidance, mentorship and just be there to share personal experiences, as well as professional experiences, and how important it is to build that network as you’re building your career.

The meditation session was led by one of King’s tech interns that spent time at Comerica last summer. A college freshman trained in meditation, she led an hour-long session and “gave us the tools and techniques of what it means to meditate,” said King.

Lean-in Circles were sessions focused on women sharing their experiences in their career field and motivating others to get to that next point in their career. “You go through a number of questions in the Lean-in Circle to try to understand what each other wants to understand, what the next steps are to get to the next phase in your career,” King explained.

There was also a session on how to deal with microaggressions that included an Unconscious Bias Panel. The key message for those attending is if you’re aware of such biases, it’s best to talk about them. Comer-

ica has a “big support system” available to employees, King said.

Other sessions included a “building your resistance” workshop, live leader “ask me anything” session and a “new look at career development TED talk.”

In the spirit of Comerica’s long commitment to diversity and inclusion, the events were not limited to women. In fact, men moderated several panels.

“They were full of joy to be part of this event. They consider themselves to be allies for women,” said King.

Whether virtual or in-person, King sums up why events like the week-long program during International Women’s Month represent Comerica’s culture of promoting diversity and inclusion year ‘round.

“Employees are excited about the different initiatives that have been offered at Comerica Bank. Comerica has excelled at making employees feel as if their voices are heard and their personal and professional lives matter,” said King. “Diversity and inclusion has a huge impact on employee engagement and leads to the happiness and longevity of employee retention. Comerica has rolled out multiple panel discussions and programs that aide employees towards understanding what’s going on in the world and healing together.”

Detroit Public Library From page A-3

vides a selected list of books by and/or about African Americans.

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten: The library partnered with nonprofit, 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten, to promote early childhood literacy.

The online application allows users to log each book read, earn digital badges and even get free children’s books. To receive free books, participants log titles of each book read with or to children, and for every 25 titles logged, the user will receive a complimentary book.

Laptop to Go: Customers can check out a laptop to use with an adult DPL card for up to 90 days. This new service is made possible with support from Lawrence Technological University.

The Detroit Public Library also offers virtual programs and webinars for the community to enjoy. On April 21, the DPL will host a special virtual event hosted by the authors of the book, Detroit Public Library: An American Classic, which highlights conception, art, architecture and history of the 1921 Main Library Building.

For the rest of the year, Mondowney explains, “We will celebrate the building’s architectural significance, the creative genius of skilled artists and artisans and the outstanding contributions of our staff.”

For Detroit and Highland Park residents looking to get their digital library card or take part in the library’s digital resources can visit the website to apply.

Currently, limited DPL services are provided from eight (8) service points: Main Library, six (6) branches (Campbell, Edison, Jefferson, Parkman, Redford and Wilder), and the Mobile Library. The

seven (7) physical locations were selected because of their size, which allowed for social distancing, their geographic location, including public transportation access, ADA accessibility, and resources available at the site, such as computers and special collections.

The Mobile Library will continue its outreach service to eight (8) additional closed branches: Conely, Douglass, Chase, Sherwood Forest, Franklin, Knapp, Elmwood Park and Duffield.

These stops were selected based on providing a balanced level of service throughout the city and with consideration of a location’s ability to provide adequate parking of the vehicle.

To stay up to date on the DPL’s community initiatives, check out their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts.

Use a showdown box to highlight the text below. You can paginate this anywhere around the content.

Apply for a Library Card People who live or go to school in Detroit or Highland Park are eligible for a FREE Detroit Public Library card. To apply, bring government issued photo identification and proof of residency, or school ID, to the circulation desk at any open DPL location. A library card is required to check out materials and use a library computer.

Comerica Vice President Marvin Rushing will preside over the session as moderator. Rushing oversees banking centers in Macomb County as retail district manager, and he is the past chair of the Comerica African American Network, the bank’s oldest employee resource group.

The Michigan Diversity Council is a non-profit organization committed

CB-258244-01 (3) COVID-19 Community Comerica Ad MM.pdf 1 4/8/2020 9:59:01 AM

Can’t get to the library? Apply for a digital library card which provides access to most of the Library’s digital resources, including e-books and streaming movies. A digital library card cannot be used to check out materials or use a library computer.

Visit www.detroitpubliclibrary.org to apply for a digital library card and stay abreast of library communications, activities and programming.

National Black Men In Leadership Summit

From page A-3 The workshop will provide best practices in creating and sustaining a rewarding mentoring relationship with life-long impartation.

Located at 8733 W. Vernor Hwy., the Campbell DPL location remains open to serve along with the Main Library, Mobile Library and five other branches (Edison, Jefferson, Parkman, Redford and Wilder). Campbell is open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday (closed Friday and Sunday).

to fostering a learning environment for organizations to grow in their knowledge of diversity. The council affords opportunities for organizations to share best practices and learn from top corporate leaders in diversity and inclusion. The Michigan Diversity Council is under the umbrella of the National Diversity Council.

Among the Michigan Diversity Council’s board of directors includes Lori Walker, Comerica vice president, senior diversity & inclusion consultant.

Comerica means Community.

At Comerica Bank, the well-being of our customers, employees and communities is our priority. For over 170 years, we’ve been helping customers weather every economic climate. As the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has had an unprecedented impact on the businesses and the people in our communities, we stand ready to help.

Let us Raise Your Expectations® of what a bank can be in times like these.

®

RAISE YOUR OUR EXPECTATIONS XPECTATIONS ®

MEMBER FDIC. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY LENDER. Comerica Bank NMLS ID: 480990

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| April 21-27, 2021

Millennial Money

Money.

michiganchronicle.com

Make Intentional Financial Decisions Over the past few months, we’ve done our best to lift up important financial discussions in a way that reflects the financial concerns of millennials. We’ve discussed everything from managing credit debt to pursuing homeownership. These have all been important conversations, and I hope that from each article, you were able to take some actionable items and apply them to the ongoing pursuit of your financial goals.

That being said, these discussions do call for a bit of realism.

Within each of these conversations, whether it’s taking on student loans, managing debt, considering financial coaching, or any of the other topics we’ve discussed, there are “best practices” that can be hard to sort through what your next step should be and why. But luckily for all of us, the answers to a lot of “this or that” financial questions boil down to a few simple tenets: accurate information, personal choice, and the importance of not going it alone.

Informed Decisions Outside of pure luck, there is no way to make the best decision without making an informed decision - this is even more important when you’re talking about your personal finances.

Look at the big picture before deciding whether to apply for a personal loan, or whether to rent or buy.

Make sure you know exactly how every single provision of each agreement you enter into will affect you in both the short and long term. This information must come from reliable, historically accurate sources in order to ensure you can trust it. The experienced team here at Greenpath is ready and able to help you in this way, and many others.

Personal Choices Once you have all of the facts that you need to make the best decision, you’ll be amazed at how many choices you have. What portion of your income should you save every month?

Should you lease a car or buy a car?

Each of us might answer these questions differently, and our life circumstances will also dictate which options we choose. The most important thing is that you have a well-reasoned, long-term vision of where you want to get to financially. Any decision you make should be tied to how you prioritize where your life circumstances are now, and where you want them to be down the road.

Get Guidance But while we do have a ton of choices with our finances, there are some things that we should avoid no matter the circumstances. First off, don’t go it alone. Be sure to understand the full situation you face regarding any collections notices you receive if you’re behind. Never sign a loan promissory note without understanding all of the provisions in it.

If ever you’re on the fence about a decision, talking to a certified financial advisor from a trusted national nonprofit can steer you away from avoidable financial missteps.

By following these three tenets, as well as using financial educational resources, you are creating a financial life that is informed, well-reasoned, and personal. The only thing left now is to go do it, and we’re here to help every step along the way. https://www.greenpath.com/

Drs. Jana McQueen, right, and daughter Janelle McQueen operate McQueen Orthodontics Specialists and are the first Black-owned mother and daughter to open an orthodontic practice locally, and possibly nationally. Photo courtesy of McQueen Orthodontics Specialists

Dynamic Duo:

Mother-Daughter Team Up in Family-Owned Practice

By Sherri Kolade Drs. Jana McQueen and daughter Janelle McQueen are busy running McQueen Orthodontics Specialists in Southfield, Dearborn and Clinton Township -- and they are making history along the way.

Their operation is the first, and only known, Black-owned mother-daughter orthodontic clinic in the country.

Jana McQueen, of Bloomfield Hills (practicing orthodontics since 1988), went to dental school after a friend suggested it to her, and years later she and her daughter are making a path for others to follow.

Jana McQueen completed her undergraduate studies at Fisk University where she was a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She then attended Meharry Medical College for dental school, graduating second in her class, with honors, with her Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS). Her orthodontic residency was completed at Howard University.

She loves to give people a better

smile and loves that her business is family-based.

“I have someone to carry on the legacy,” McQueen said of her daughter. “It takes a lot of weight off of me -- I have been holding it down until she came here. … the majority of my staff members have been here for years and have seen her growing up.”

“I decided to come in on some afternoons after school and thought this is what I wanted to get into -- following mother’s footsteps,” Janelle McQueen, of Birmingham, said, adding that last June she finished her residency and began working with her mother in August.

Jana McQueen said that before opening her private practice, she worked at a few different dental offices. When she was pregnant with Janelle and working at a dental office, her boss decided that she might want to spend more time at home and he reduced her hours, which equaled a 20 percent cut in pay.

“Needless to say, I found another place of employment before opening my own practice,” she said.

She told The Michigan Chronicle that

she opened up her practices in the three metro Detroit locations strategically, in order to have territory in three local counties.

She opened up her Southfield practice first (where she grew up), and branched out with the other two.

The McQueen Orthodontics Specialists’ doctors are currently working on developments in orthodontics through continuing education and incorporating the best technology, methods and materials in their practice.

Janelle McQueen added that there are not a lot of female orthodontics in the United States, but the number is increasing annually, she said, adding that having their faces “out there” is important.

What’s also important is bringing young people along and “showing if they are interested this is something they can do and pursue.”

“We hope to increase the numbers and this is definitely a career for Black females, just like anyone else,” she said.

For more information visit https:// www.drmcqueen4braces.com/.

Women of Excellence Inaugural Class Reveal Their Timeless Brilliance

By Sherri Kolade It’s been 13 years since the first Michigan Chronicle’s Women of Excellence (WOE) class. Full of illustrious ladies who paved the way for subsequent recipients and helped break glass ceilings, creating a legacy for themselves and others.

Tuesday, April 13 at Real Times Media’s Studio 1452, Dr. Geneva Jones Williams moderated a panel discussion with some of the first-ever distinguished WOE recipients. They discussed topics including what taught them the true meaning of excellence along with career and life advice.

Featured panelists included: • Carol Goss, past president and CEO of The Skillman Foundation, and 2014 Harvard Advanced Leadership Initiative Fellow • Dr. Marilyn French Hubbard, Ph.D., CEO at Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise Change Agents • Dr. Juliette Okotie-Eboh, adjunct professor at Wayne County Community College District • Frankie Darcell, award-winning radio personality.

Frankie Darcell

Carol Goss

“It’s been 13 years since you’ve been named Women of Excellence -- what life-changing event has occurred that taught you the true meaning of excellence?” Jones Williams asked the panelists.

Darcell said that Black women and “our brilliance” shine through every time, and she’s learned a lot since then.

Darcell, a 30-year radio veteran, said that she has reported everything and been everywhere for her work including the crack house and White House “to talk about topics and things important in our community.”

Dr. Juliette Okotie-Eboh Darcell said that what came to mind for her as a “change moment” was when she was fired, rehired and promoted in a three-hour period in 2013.

She said that she and her agent “knew it was coming” and when it happened the impact of the work she did, her community connections and more, had her back.

She added that people who listened to her in the city of Detroit for the last 27 years “stood up and stood in the gap” for her and said, “this is not going to happen on our watch.”

“I acknowledge them .... here I am now in 2021 in cities around the country,” Darcell said.

“You put in the work, developed relationships and kept the faith,” Jones Williams responded.

Goss said that Darcell’s story reminds her that Black women are “so resilient.”

Her own resilience shows up in the world, too.

Goss said that her most important life-changing event was after her retirement she went to Harvard for a year-long fellowship.

“Being at Harvard was amazing and transformative -- it actually helped me to find out what the world really wanted me to do,” Goss said, adding that she has spent an over-four-decade long career working on behalf of children in need.

“At Harvard, I discovered my passion for justice and learned the difference between charity and justice.”

Goss said that charity is important but she found that justice is what she is passionate about.

“It really changed my life,” she said,

See INAUGURAL

CLASS page A6

Page A-6 • michiganchronicle.com • April 21-27, 2021

Inaugural Class From page A-5 adding that when she came back to Detroit, she decided to help women through an organization.

“That was the genesis of Warrior Women Against Poverty. We’ve been doing that for seven years now.

It’s changed my life probably more than the women we support.”

Okotie-Eboh said that her definition of excellence includes the words “resilience” and “consistency.”

“I prefer the word ‘resilience,’” she said when describing Black women.

“We’re not farm animals or superheroes -- we’re people and resilience is what it takes to succeed in this life -- whatever your vocation may lead you to, and consistency as well.”

from 12 women to [an] international network of 5,000.”

in my life personally … I had to get out there and do what I needed to do.”

Okote-Eboh also said that a life-changing experience for her was when she went to Nigeria for a few months as a consultant when she felt stuck in her career in Detroit.

“Over the course of six months I got out of here … I could write 10 books about that best thing that ever happened to me,” she said, adding that when she came back to Detroit and whenever she has moments of doubt she thinks about her time in Nigeria. “I put that foot forward and keep moving.”

French Hubbard added that her notable career, along with deep personal experiences, has grounded her and challenged her to be bolder and to do what she loves.

“I found if I don’t love it and it does not love me it is time to move, and if you don’t move you will be

moved because that environment won’t hold you,” she said, adding that women need to support other women because one woman’s success can be every woman’s success. “So many times I’ve been in environments that women have thought since I was successful… that was taking something away from them. …

One of the things we have to do is come together

and pull together our collective experiences, power, resources, and we can really have an impact on the world.”

From embracing selfcare and being your biggest cheerleader to having an entrepreneurial spirit and reflection -- these women of excellence continue to embody success and delivered poignant messages on making yourself a priority

while on the job.

“This toolbox is being created today,” Jones Williams said, adding that these women love the future WOE class being announced soon. “We love you and we care for you and we care what happens to you personally and professionally. We know that, in fact, you are what’s going to make it and you are the leadership of the future.”

French Hubbard said that her career has brought her to the “wonderful” place she is at today.

She added that as a homebody and introvert she learned to work a room and develop relationships with others to the point that they cannot believe she is not the most outgoing person.

“I’m living my best life -- I realize this is a new life,” she said, adding that in the ‘70s and ‘80s she was involved in many conversations around empowering women in the workforce.

“I worked in public affairs, planning in the city of Detroit -- I had to sell my ideas to elected officials and policy leaders,” Okote-Eboh said. Even at that time, I had to develop a persona -- I could be consistent with outgoing and put on that show … it’s not being phony. ... It helped me not take things

“Along the way, I made the commitment that I wanted to improve the economic status and health and well-being of women, families and their communities,” she said, adding that after making that commitment she founded the National Association of Black Women Entrepreneurs. “We grew

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Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Incorporated, Lambda Chi Chapter - A blazing freshness during the 2020-2021 Pandemic. Members donned masks, practiced social distancing and ushered in new members in the pursuit of their motto “Service for Humanity”. Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Incorporated is a professional organization for registered professional nurses and student nurses. More than 8000 Registered Nurses and Student Nurses hold membership in Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Incorporated. Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Incorporate is an internationally recognized leader in developing healthy communities through advocacy, collaboration, education, leadership, research, and service. The sorority’s mission includes encouragement of the pursuit of continuing education, recruitment programs for health careers, stimulation of close and friendly relationships among members, development of working relationships with other professional groups and identification of a core of nursing leaders who affect social changes at national, regional, and local levels.

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LEADERS DO WHAT’S RIGHT

DTE is taking bold steps

to address climate change and ensure affordable, reliable energy. Like building the largest wind and solar installations in the state and using cleaner natural gas.

Now, we’re accelerating our efforts — tripling renewables,

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and cutting carbon emissions in half over the next ten years. Because leaders do what’s right, not what’s easy.

April 21-27, 2020 • michiganchronicle.com • Page A-7

Page A-8 • michiganchronicle.com • April 21-27, 2021

COMERICA IN THE COMMUNITY

COLLEAGUE SPOTLIGHT

Ryan Anderson Ryan Anderson calls the past year “a crash course.”

Indeed, the Comerica vice president and national contributions manager joined the company last March, just as the COVID-19 pandemic was taking hold in the United States.

In his role, being responsible for managing all the charitable contributions and community relationships both nationally and in Comerica’s local markets, there was no slow ramp-up as a new employee.

“We’re thinking, how do you respond to a global pandemic?

It was a lot. It was challenging,” said Anderson.

Comerica Bank’s Patricia McCann and Antoinette Frost pose with Lions mascot Roary for partnership event, Hometown Huddle.

Comerica Bank Continues Volunteer Support During Pandemic

Supporting each community it serves through volunteerism is a core value for Comerica Bank, and despite the limitations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, that hasn’t changed. Knowing those same needs are out there, the Comerica teams did what Patricia McCann, Comerica vice president, senior diversity consultant – social impact, calls a “pivot.”

“We had to think differently,” said McCann. “The needs hadn’t changed, if anything, they increased.”

Without the ability to participate in public events, such as walkathons or in-person visits to schools, the key element to thinking differently about volunteering was the move to more virtual events.

food drives, personal hygiene supply drives and the Hometown Huddle program in conjunction with the Detroit Lions and the United Way. That program involves volunteers packing personal care kits for Detroit Public Community School district students facing housing insecurity and homelessness.

To assist employee volunteers with the pivot to virtual activities a guide regarding virtual and remote volunteering was developed and distributed.

“What’s virtual, what’s remote? What does it mean, what is it, how do we do it, what stayed the same?” Said McCann. “I think it resulted in employees saying I can get engaged.”

“With this virtual world, we are able to still reach our target population, reach the community,” said McCann.

Indeed, they did. McCann explained Comerica has had a long-standing goal of each employee volunteering eight hours a year for a total corporate goal of 64,000 hours. Even with the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic Comerica employees still gave about 40,000 hours of their time. That’s actually pretty close to hours given in a typical year when about 26 percent of employees reach their entire goal. This past year 24 percent were able to give the full eight hours.

Some examples include Comerica volunteers remotely reading to students during Black History Month and continuing to participate, with some adjustments, in

“We’re not seeing 50 volunteers out for 10 hours. We might have 10 volunteers out for one hour,” explained McCann.

“That still results in over $1 million worth

“It was always there but not to the degree that we really started exploring that,” said McCann. She explained Comerica leaned on other resources such as the Points of Light Foundation and United Way to help the company navigate the mechanics and procedures for virtual volunteering.

of volunteer time that we contributed to the communities. That’s so valuable.”

Indeed, while there may have been some expectations fundraising might ebb during a challenging period, McCann is proud to reveal just the opposite occurred, saying “In every fundraising walkathon type of event we participated in we ...met or exceeded our goal.”

While Comerica hasn’t planned any special events for National Volunteer Month McCann points out Money Smart Week falls in April as well, and that’s where the company will provide its support for its virtual financial education volunteers.

Looking ahead, McCann believes the valuable lessons and experiences derived from pivoting to virtual volunteering means even when the pandemic passes things won’t completely revert to past practices.

“I do think some virtual activities will continue especially with our focus on our financial education activities. With technology and virtual volunteering, it has actually allowed us to reach more people in a different way,” she said.

McCann gives a great deal of credit to Comerica’s devoted employee volunteers declaring, “Our employees have adapted.

We’re always looking for new ways to get engaged.”

He found that by partnering with Comerica colleagues who already had relationships in the communities served by the company, it was possible to make an immediate, positive impact. A year later, Anderson is proud of what he and the Comerica team have accomplished and planned for the next phase.

“Last year, we did around $10 million (in aid) and were able to make an impact on COVID relief. This year we’re excited about how we can help the country, help the markets we’re in go from COVID relief to COVID recovery,” Anderson said.

Born in St. Louis, Mo., and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, Anderson earned a BA in organizational communications from San Francisco State University. He came to Comerica last year from Atlanta where he was shepherding the merger between his former employer and another bank. In that role, Anderson traveled around the U.S. for two years as an executive consultant. It was a time, he said, when he was home only two days in those two years but faced a challenging yet rewarding experience as the only African American member on a team of 10.

“You’re always with people and they are a source of being relational, and the walls and barriers began to come down,” he explained. “You have conversations that are uncomfortable and comfortable, and I had the opportunity to really see we’re more alike than different.”

Anderson said he decided to look for a new opportunity in corporate responsibility after his grandmother passed away and felt he needed a change that also took him closer to his hometown and family. After an online search yielded a position at Comerica, an interview he was sold on the company and the person who would be his new manager.

“It was absolute, positive, love. I just fell in love with her and the work the company was trying to accomplish,” said Anderson.

A year later, Anderson is even more enthusiastic about his work and Comerica’s commitment to supporting its communities. He recalls an appeal for assistance a Comerica partner made for aid to college students from low to middle income families suddenly displaced from their dorms when COVID hit.

“You have all these kids stranded, homeless, hungry,” he said.

While Anderson was presenting for the virtual Black College Expo for Georgia/Florida one of those impacted students came up to him with unforgettable words of thanks.

“A guy goes, ‘hey Mr. Anderson. Thank you so much for what you’ve done, what Comerica has done. I was a homeless college student last year. Because of the money you all gave now I have a roof over my head and I’m continuing my college career.’ “ Serving those who are facing challenges has been part of Anderson’s life for a long time. In 2016 he received the Humanitarian of the Year award at Atlanta Black Pride in front of 50,000 people at Atlanta’s Piedmont Park. It remains one of Anderson’s proudest moments.

As far as advice for anyone seeking to improve their lives or careers, Anderson boils it down to a three-world philosophy: Be, do, have.

“People say I have this then I would do this then I would be this,” Anderson explained. “If I had this role, I would do this role then I would be happy. I’ve learned to be happy in the space you’re in and joy in the space you’re in. Do the work even when you don’t have the title. You will have that role. Be joyful, be consistent, be stellar in the space you’re in.”

Hobbies: Ryan loves long-distance running, anywhere from seven-20 miles “on any given day.” He also has an affinity for cooking, preparing large meals and says he makes “the best gumbo.” He also loves the arts, going to museums, classical music and opera.

April: Financial Capabilities Month

During Financial Capabilities Month, Comerica’s Financial Education Brigade has been out in force reaching residents in the community as well as small businesses.

The Comerica Money $ense programs and the Business $ense bootcamps have offered in-depth overviews of various financial topics that will help empower individual

and business through greater knowledge of financial matters.

Comerica has held several financial series that have targeted students, adults and seniors in recent weeks.

Comerica partners with local community organizations in an effort to deliver financial literacy to wider audiences.

This community partners have included: Black United Fund Of Michigan Inc and QT Solutions; Citadel Community Development Corporation; Community-Up; Discovery Center; Greater Grace Temple - The Master’s Commission; Puente; SER Metro-Detroit; Total Prosperity, Inc,; Urban League Detroit and Southeastern Michigan; and Your Own Uniqueness, Inc.

Goals: Declaring “there’s so much to do to maximize and exhaust the possibilities” in his current role, Ryan wants to make an even greater impact, looking for innovative ways to create change as part of corporate social responsibility.

For more information on how Comerica colleagues are giving back to our community, visit

www.facebook.com/Comerica.

Comerica and Winning Futures Partner to Help Students for Seventh Year The Comerica Charitable Foundation has provided Winning Futures grants since 2014.

Winning Futures is a nationally recognized and award-winning expert in empowering high school students to succeed. The organization provides a variety of programs, scholarships, awards and more to support students.

In March, Comerica employees virtually volunteered with students through many programs involving career coaching, scholarship judging, school-based mentoring and one-onone mentoring.

As part of the career coaching initiatives, Comerica colleagues engaged professional workshops, resume reviews and interview evaluations.

For the professional workshop, Winning Futures staff provided a profession lesson to students. Then, Comerica colleagues facilitated a fun virtual group activity with three to five students.

The activity simulated the process of evaluating, promoting and terminating fictional employees.

Colleagues supported individuals in the Winning Futures program by reviewing and critiquing resumes submitted by College Success Coaching students (Winning Futures alumni now in college).

Comerica volunteers also participated in mock phone and video-based job interviews with students and provide them with constructive feedback.

Scholarship judging has also occurred in recent weeks as colleagues helped choose scholarship recipients by interviewing students (via Zoom) who applied and judging application essays.

A big part of the ongoing support of Winning Futures focuses on school-based mentoring. Comerica mentors meet students in virtual breakout rooms to reinforce recent workforce development lessons (taught by Winning Futures) through supportive discussions and activities.

Topics include goal setting, career exploration, continuing education, and life and job readiness skills development.

Last year Comerica’s vice president in middle market banking, Mike Malaga, was one the Mentors of the Year. This year, he has continued to mentor his student via the One-on-One Virtual Mentoring program.

Students and Comerica mentors virtually meet monthly, one-on-one, and watch a five-minute video on a specific educational topic (positive attitude, perseverance, overcoming obstacles, growth mindset, etc.). After the video, mentors debrief with their students. They also talk about

Comerica Vice President, Middle Market Banking Mike Malaga was named one of Winning Futures Mentors of the Year in 2020. Malaga leads a team of volunteers who regularly contribute to Winning Futures and their commitment to preparing youth for the workforce. struggles or school issues, accountability for schoolwork and positive news in their lives. Mentoring sessions are held outside school hours.

Comerica is dedicated to helping the communities it serves and supporting important causes that create change.

City. Life. Style.

B1 | April 21-27, 2021

After-H(ours)

Access Equity and Opportunity in a 24-Hour Economy

By Adrian Tonon, Jabari Jefferson, Andre Reed Photo Lil Monsterr Arts Collectives; An arts collective is a group of artists, curators and supporters who work together to support and promote the work of every member. Meet eight Detroit creative arts collectives that are leading the way to access, equity and sustainable change.

Where City Meets Life and Life Meets Style

michiganchronicle.com

GirlBoss D

etroit’s business sector is growing despite the economic downfall caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. A local area mother, wife and First Lady is launching her fifth store in downtown Detroit and helping women dress like a boss but maintain their femininity.

Tenisia Evans has grown up in Detroit and has worked to give back to the city that gave so much to her. With a vision, the support of her family and direction from God, Girl Boss Fashions was birthed as a way to provide women with unique pieces for all sizes, shapes and ethnicities. As the First Lady of Divine Restorations Ministries on the city’s east side, and formally wearing a size 24, this entrepreneur sought a way to make shopping for full-figured women easier.

“There were a lot of First Ladies and they were like Barbie Dolls. I started a women’s clothing store years ago and it was called First Lady Fashions where I had curvy clothes, but it looked like church mother stuff,” says Tenisia Evans, founder of Girl Boss Fashions.

“So, I started doing bling T-shirts.”

First launching in 2016, Girl Boss Fashions consisted of elaborately decorated T-shirts and accessories, but quickly grew to include individualized pieces for the everyday woman. The brand’s first location on Kelly Road served as the catalyst for several storefronts to follow. Expanding into Lakeside Mall, Macomb Mall and Partridge Creek, it was not long before representatives from Bedrock took notice and offered the opportunity for a pop-up shop location in the heart of downtown.

“Supporting creative entrepreneurs like Tenisia Evans is at the core of our retail strategy,” says Ivy Greaner, chief operating officer for Bedrock. “Girl Boss Fashions has a powerful mission and we look forward to connecting downtown shoppers to a Rockstar local brand.”

With catchy phrases like “the struggle is real but I make it look good,” which came from one of her husband’s sermons, and “I’m a jewel,” the Girl Boss owner is hoping to continue to inspire, not just the women of Detroit, but women nationally and internationally with her dream of being a household name and a go-to source for dressing women.

“My motto since day one as an entrepreneur is ‘all things are possible to those that believe,’” says Evans. “I believe Girl Boss Fashions will inspire women to live more confidently and I believe downtown Detroit is ready to experience our brand. Stop by our shop for one-of-a-kind pieces that are classy, trendy and professional, yet bossy at the same time.”

Since the pandemic, in addition to launching store locations across Metro Detroit, this entrepreneur is also motivating women to chase their dreams and launch their own businesses. With her mentorship program Girl Go Get It, Evans is showing up-andcoming businesswomen the ropes when it comes to launching a brand. Providing assistance on kickstarting and maintaining a business, the women in the program are able to see first-hand how the First Lady balances her obligations to her church, family and businesses. Often employing women from her church to work in the Girl Boss locations, paying it forward is helping to keep the ever-growing population of Black women business owners evolving.

“I get a lot of [messages] asking if ladies can put their pieces in the store and I tell them [they] can join our Girl Go Get It group and I’ll be more than happy to help you and show you how to do whatever,” Evans says.

Price points for the clothing begin at $30, but the owner is sure there is something every woman can afford and will help her look beautiful.

“I have moved more to a higher end, but it’s not enough to make you break the bank,” Evans says.

The newest Girl Boss Fashions location will be at 1232 Library Street on the ground level of the Z Lot. The founder released 50 butterflies during the Grand Opening signifying evolution, her age and the desire to be in all 50 states. The pop-up shop is expected to be in operation for at least six months.

Motown Accelerator Motown Accelerator teaches, guides and introduces Detroit artists to the music industry. We want to see them break out, so we’re providing access to major labels, streaming platforms and marketing services. Accelerator doesn’t expect equity in return from artists. We just want to prepare them for lucrative careers beyond the program.

We have so many ideas for artists. It’s very fulfilling work to meet with them one-on-one, understand their goals and share with them what might help move the needle on their careers. We’re inspired by the Detroit artist community to keep innovating and helping get the word out about their music.

OVDO Media The core values of the collective in relations to access, equity, and sustainable change are the following: 1) Develop our people 2) Support each other and collaborate 3) Act with integrity 4) Strive for continuous improvement 5) Promote diversity + inclusion. In order to achieve fair and equitable access, we’ve set team work, self-improvement, and diversity as the foundation of our collective.

To be inspired, is to keep your mind open at all times. We believe that you have to welcome new experiences and receive them with curiosity to truly be inspired. With our team, we are continuously inspired by everyday creatives, people, ideas, and events.Our inspiration stems both locally and globally, as we’re always striving for new outlooks, fresh ideas, and creatively tangible concepts to apply on a daily basis.

Motor City Street Dance Academy When it comes to core values as a collective regarding access equity and sustainable change; this is our Mission and Vision and in the DNA of the work we do. I opened MCSDA inside of a space where low-income and immigrant families have access to our programming, making it affordable and during times that families can attend. Equity is a core value practiced in our collective whether it’s in a form of earning or creating, everyone involved has access to the same resources and tools to catapult themselves as an independent artist. That takes shape as hosting workshops, using the space, or creating curriculums.

I feel like all of this ties into sustainable change because it isn’t something that is created with a lot of resources or money, it’s natural, it’s something we have been doing. I have invested heavily in social capital and that’s why so much of what we do is sustainable, working with each other to support each other isn’t something that runs out.

My inspiration for my creativity comes from teaching my students, to see what I give them and how they interpret it and flip it is amazing. It’s a pure

See AFTER H(OURS) Page B-2

Spike Lee and Terence Blanchard Talks Social Justice For its centennial celebration, The University of Michigan’s School of Social Work hosted legendary filmmaker Spike Lee and Terence Blanchard, jazz musician, composer for a virtual discussion on social justice.

Creating Social Change Through Film and Music: Do The Right Thing! is the first discussion of the Social Justice Changemaker Lecture Series. The discussion focused on impacting social justice using music and film. Concentrating on the pair’s collaboration on four films; Do the Right Thing, 4 Little Girls, When the Levees Broke and Da 5 Bloods for which Blanchard scored music for the films, the virtual roundtable gave fans an inside look at how Blanchard has created such notable musical scores to match Lee’s iconic films.

“Terence gets the script the same time the actors get the script,” says Lee. ”I have great respect for Terence, his musicianship, and how music is another one of my tools to help tell the story.”

During the Civil Rights Movement, various Black leader stood and rallied their people around a central cause; to better the lives of African Americans.

Those prominent leaders have since passed the torch to the next generation of leaders and change makers.

Spike Lee has a long-standing relationship with the University of Michigan. The filmmaker earned an honorary degree from the university in 2011.

“You get to a certain age when you

Spike Lee

Terence Blanchard

ask, ‘Who’s going to stand up and speak out for us?’ Then you look around and realize that the James Baldwins, Muhammad Alis and Dr. Kings are no longer here and begin to understand that it falls on you. I’m not trying to say I’m here to try to correct the whole thing, I’m just trying to speak the truth,” says Blanchard.

During the discussion, the award-winning actor, writer and director of films such as Mo’ Better Blues, Jungle Fever and the series’ namesake Do The Right Thing, Miracle at St. Anna and Get On The Bus, Spike Lee shared the importance of celebrating those who came be-

fore and laid the foundation for those to come after.

“When people come to the world headquarters of 40 Acres and a Mule, this is like a museum. This building is a testament to our Black artistry,” says Lee. “When I come to my office and see the original AZ flag signed by, during the apartheid, Winnie and Nelson to me, everyday I come to the office and I see that.”

Over the last year, the Black community has haves the tyranny of social injustice and has sparked a new wave of advocates for social change. With

the deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, the world had began to take notice of the constant racial terrorism Black people face. Artists across the spectrum are pouring their feelings into their works.

“This isn’t even about the pandemic, the last 12 months, this is something that has been constant throughout generations of Black artists,” says Blanchard. “Look at John Coltrane, he wrote a tune for the four little girls and called it Alabama. It goes back generations.”

The students of the University of Michigan’s social work program were able to ask the panelists questions for a more in-depth look into their personal roots with social justice and how they became active in its expression.

“I grew up in a church that was socially conscious so we were always dealing with these issues from the time that I was a kid,” says Blanchard.

The School of Social Work, along with partners at the College of Literature, Sciences and the Arts, the School of Education, the School of Music, Theater & Dance, and the Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design, will host the new Social Justice Changemaker Lecture Series.

The lecture series brings together experts and advocates across several professional backgrounds, including social sciences, science, humanities and the arts, to have meaningful and impactful conversation around social justice.

Page B-2 • michiganchronicle.com • April 21-27, 2021

After H(ours) From page B-1 connection and they aren’t worried about crews, battles, or politics they are just in it for the moment. As a practitioner of Hip-Hop and a “B-boy”, what else is there to do when I’m on the floor but play, you know be-a-boy; b-boy. The other side of what inspires my creativity is taking what’s around me, my experience, and creating something from that, that moment. We have a foundation of what makes us all of those experiences that brought us up. They remain the same but how we reflect on them and present them changes over time.

CrowdFreak Our entire mission is based on accessibility!

We’ve created a collective that allows aspiring musicians to have the same opportunities for success as those who are more fortunate in the music industry. In addition, we value our process by pushing diversity and inclusion for not just music, but also nationality, background and gender.

Our biggest inspiration is having the ability to change communities through music! Giving our youth the opportunity to express themselves musically, while providing a musical safe space for our youth to be themselves. Knowing that one of our stages or our virtual opportunities could change someone’s life is all the inspiration we need!

Fiesta Vibes We provide a platform for Latinx creatives to obtain tangible outlets, access to industry jobs, and opportunity to apply the skills they have learned.

We work to develop equitable relationships with major brands, venues, festivals and labels that are available for the latinx community in Detroit for the first time. This balance of both youth development programming and

commercially sustainable entrepreneurship is the heart of our work.

The inspiration for my creativity as a whole comes from embracing my Mexican American culture while being raised in a diverse environment and being inspired by different cultures in the city of Detroit. Being from Southwest Detroit influenced me to be a curator where I express my vibes through art, music, food, hustle & fashion. Seeing the multi-cultural community of Detroit come together and get inspired by the vibes we create is the biggest flex as a creative.

Assemble Sound At Assemble, we are committed to cultivating both a diversity of sound as well as a diversity of the artists and staff that make up our community.

A wide breadth of tastes, thought and backgrounds are so essential to the creation of world-changing music and to the development of world-changing artists. We exercise this commitment with great care especially when selecting candidates for our annual Residency program. We take great pains to ensure each class is representative of the city we call home, and the wide swath of talent that exists here. Access is often the only thing standing behind a great artist and great success. We

want to be a part of lowering this barrier for hard working and talented Detroit artists and creators.

We love collectives that emphasize collaboration and access. The YOUmedia studios at Chicago Public Library were a direct influence at the inception of Assemble Sound. Obviously, Motown moved the whole world and inspires us too with its emphasis on timeless songwriting and production, and it’s family-style creative environment.

BabexHouse: A National Solidarity Network Babe House aims to create more opportunities through resources in the community through art and culture. We aim to focus QTBIPOC to the front of art and culture in each city we expand to and create chapters/collectives. We believe that when society focuses on QTBIPOC, the most marginalized people in the capitalist structure, there will be more efforts for alliances to follow the leadership of QTBIPOC, which helps everyone who is affected by the system. We are inspired by the activists that created the roles that we follow today, such as Martha P Johnson, Audre Lorde, who we set as examples. Following our ancestral work leads towards more growth in solidarity.

Mundane Media Mundane Monday is a cultural hub for individuals to grow, network, and even actualize. Hosting talents with varying experience gives them all a platform to be proud and make their voices heard in their own fashion. There’s so much talent all around us and with proper opportunities, their messages

can be expressed and enjoyed. Continuing to provide opportunity and a platform to the muted and marginalized is what I believe will drive culture, promote safe spaces, and create more palatable environments for us all.

Personally, I’m inspired by innovation.

Looking at something in a different way or putting

a modern spin on classic motifs gets me going.

Some of my favorite music, fashion, even film are like time capsules for an era almost; possessing defining characteristics that take you back every time you experience it. My first venture into the creative world was a brand I started called INNO which was short for innovations, as I still believe constant innovation creates timeless design, if that makes sense.

24-Hour Economy is not just about the party or creatives. If you want to see a true 24-Hour Economy, visit Henry Ford Hospital. When a doctor, nurse or janitor gets out of work at 5:00 a.m., is there a restaurant, dry cleaner or grocery store open to visit.

Not only does it create quality of life for the late night workforce, but it is a job driver for entrepreneurs. In the next series meet four leaders who are championing jobs and opportunity at night.

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April 21-27, 2021 • michiganchronicle.com •

Page B-3

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YOU CAN DISTANCE AND STILL BE SOCIAL. Get vaccinated when it’s your turn.

COVID doesn’t have to keep us from connecting with the crew. Vaccines are here. But until enough of us are vaccinated, we need to keep playin’ it smart. Mask up, socially distance, and avoid indoor gatherings with people you don’t live with. We can still stay close – even when we’re miles apart.

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Classifieds

April 21-27, 2021 • michiganchronicle.com • Page B-4 ANNOUNCEMENTS

WAY Academy, a TUITION FREE Public School Academy serving students and their families announces the 2021-2022 enrollment periods for grades 6-12. WAY Academy located at 8701 West Vernon, Detroit, MI. 48209. Students and their families may enroll April 19 - May 2, 2021.

In addition, interested students and their families may contact the academy by calling 313-444-8082.

This school is a Public School Academy authorized by Lake Superior State University (LSSU) according to the Michigan Revised School Code. It has an open enrollment policy and does not discriminate on the basis of intellectual or physical abilities, achievement or aptitude, religion, race or gender.

Random Selection Drawing, Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Proactive Health Tips to Help Navigate Year 2 of the Pandemic

(Family Features) After months of unfamiliar restrictions and guidelines, pandemic fatigue is affecting how some Americans protect their health. However, experts warn that diligence is still extremely important because new mutations and variants of the virus that causes COVID-19 are being discovered.

The typical cold and flu season also brings added threats to people’s health and wellness.

“Staying diligent is one of the most important things we can do as we navigate through cold and flu season as well as the COVID pandemic,” said family medicine physician Dr. Jennifer Caudle.

Though you may still be spending more time at home, it’s important to take proactive steps to maintain your health. Caudle offers these practical tips to help protect your health while you’re waiting for vaccination eligibility amid the pandemic this cold and flu season.

Avoid Exposure As COVID-19 continues to impact communities from coast to coast, there’s no better time to avoid getting sick. Even if you catch a less serious illness like a cold or the flu, health care professionals in many areas are stretched thin. What’s more, getting sick could compromise your immune system, making you more susceptible to a more serious infection.

Minimizing your risk of exposure means limiting close contact with others outside your household, wearing a mask and washing your hands regularly with soap for at least 20 seconds. An alcohol-based sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol can substitute for hand washing, if necessary.

Always avoid touching your face when out and about, and when possible, avoid high-touch surfaces like door handles and light switches. If you’re prone to allergies, be conscious of what triggers allergic reactions and manage your allergies so you’re able to easily identify any new symptoms that may not be allergy related.

Practice Self-Care Staying healthy isn’t just about avoiding germs. Managing your physical health means keeping your body in top condition by eating right, exercising, getting enough sleep and ditching habits that can negatively impact your body, like smoking and excess drinking. It’s also important to monitor your mental health since factors like stress and depression can take a physical toll that impacts your body’s immune response.

Pinpoint Symptoms If you get sick, it’s important to pay close attention to your symptoms. However, this cold and flu season brings a unique variable with the possibility that your symptoms may actually stem from a mild case of COVID-19. Weather may also fuel stronger than usual allergy responses, so distinguishing between cold, flu, COVID-19 and allergy symptoms can be especially tricky. Testing may be necessary to get the proper diagnosis and ensure you’re taking the right precautions to prevent the spread of any infection. If you have questions or concerns about your symptoms or about COVID-19, consult your health care professional.

Treat Symptoms Depending on your diagnosis, a health care professional may suggest medication to help treat symptoms until your illness runs its course. There are a variety of products available over the counter that are commonly used to treat symptoms of respiratory viral infections. Many provide relief from multiple symptoms in a single dose. For example, an option like Mucinex DM lasts 12 hours when used as directed and contains dextromethorphan, which helps to control cough, and guaifenesin to help thin and loosen mucus.

You can identify the right formula to provide relief based on symptoms you are experiencing by using the online tool at Mucinex.com, where you can also find more information regarding self-care remedies.

Control a Pesky Cough How long a cough lasts depends on its cause, but you may be able to tame the symptoms until it’s gone.

Eat Right Produce is packed with vitamin C, a nutrient that helps support your immune system.

Menthol may be a soothing natural remedy. It’s one of the compounds that gives mint its flavor, so brew a cup of strong mint tea and put it to the test.

Steam and Hydration Both steam and water help thin your mucus, which may help clear chest congestion. Try a warm, steamy shower or a soak in a hot tub and drink plenty of fluids to keep your body hydrated.

Around the House If you’re struggling with a parched throat from your cough, try gargling salt water to soothe discomfort.

Lozenges increase your saliva production to help soothe a parched throat and get you feeling better as your cough subsides.

Exposure to particulates in the air, like pollutants and irritants, may be linked to nighttime dry coughing. A high-efficiency particulate air filter can help remove them.

Wipe down surfaces. Cleaning removes settled dust and pollen while disinfection can help remove lingering cold and flu germs.

If you’re smoking, stop. Smoking is a leading cause of chronic cough. Also avoid secondhand smoke as much as possible.

Rest recharges your immune system, and getting enough sleep may help you cope with an illness that is the cause of a lingering cough. An option like Mucinex Fast-Max All-In-One Cold & Flu relieves nine symptoms including cough, stuffy nose, sore throat, fever and headache so you can get on with your day.

Rely on a cough medication that contains dextromethorphan, which works on the cough center of your brain to help suppress coughing.

In the event student enrollment applications exceed the available space, a random selection drawing will be administered Wednesday, May 5th, 2021.from 8:30am to 10:30am at the following location: 369 Main Street, Belleville, MI. 48111 The random selection drawing, in accordance with the Michigan Revised School Code and chartering contract provisions with Lake Superior State University, will be conducted under the direction of a third party administrator not affiliated with the academy. If required the, the third party administrators will be (TBD). Students and their parents as well as interested community members are welcome to attend.

COVID-19 guidelines will be in place. Attendance, however, is not required for inclusion in the drawing.

DETROIT WATER AND SEWERAGE DEPARTMENT NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING FOR WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT FY22 DRINKING WATER REVOLVING FUND (DWRF) PROJECT The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) announces a Public Hearing regarding its Project Plan for proposed Water Main Replacement in the City of Detroit. DWSD will be seeking low interest Drinking Water Revolving Fund (DWRF) loan assistance for FY2022. These projects are comprised of replacing aging water main in the Midtown, Cultural Center, and Medical Center neighborhoods in the City of Detroit WS-725 (Project B) and Full Lead Service Line Replacements (FLSLR) at Various Locations throughout the City of Detroit WS-721 (Project A). Construction will include excavation of existing water mains, installation of new pipes, rehabilitation of pipes, replacement of lead service lines between the water main and the water meter, pressure testing, backfill, and right-of-way. The impact of the project will be improved customer satisfaction and safe, reliable service delivery of potable water to customers. The temporary impact of construction activities will be minimized through mitigation measures specified in the contract documents. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes & Energy’s (EGLE) acceptance of the City of Detroit as economically disadvantaged may allow this Project A WS-721 to be funded through a grant; which would result in minimal to no impact on user rates. Full lead service line replacements benefit the public health and safety. Adverse impacts on historical, archaeological, geographic, or cultural areas are not expected. This project is necessary to ensure that DWSD will consistently and reliably provide high quality potable water to the residents. The Project Plan consists of a single project in critical need of water main replacement or rehabilitation. The total cost of this project is currently estimated at approximately $11 million for Project A and $18.3 Million for Project B; a total of $29.3 million; which is being sought through the DWRF program. The Water Main Replacement/Rehabilitation and Lead Service Line Replacement projects are eligible for participating under the State of Michigan low interest DWRF loan program.

The Public Hearing will present a description of the recommended projects, estimated costs, as well as the cost per household impact for customers. The typical residential customer bill in the City of Detroit is calculated to increase by not more than approximately 1.08% assuming that low interest loans can be obtained through the DWRF loan program; however the current rate structure will cover the cost. The purpose of the hearing is not only to inform, but to seek and gather input from people that will be affected. Comments and viewpoints from the public are encouraged.

THE PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE DURING THE BOARD OF WATER COMMISSIONERS MEETING ON: DATE: Wednesday, May 19, 2021 As of the date of this notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Detroit Health Department emergency order, the meeting will be virtually.

PLACE: Virtual Meeting TIME: 2:00 p.m.

Call in using your phone: 301-715-8592 Zoom Meeting ID: 815 7263 5118 Zoom Passcode: 482262021 To attend online: Zoom link: https://cityofdetroit.zoom.us/j/81572635118 Use Passcode: 482262021 Information on the Project Plan will be available for review after April 18, 2021 at the following locations: City Website: detroitmi.gov/dwsd OR By email request to Monica Daniels: monica.daniels@detroitmi.gov Due to the pandemic emergency health orders, this document is not available in-person.

If you have questions or want to submit written statements for the Public Hearing Record, call or write: Call: Monica Daniels at (313) 938-7912 Email: Monica Daniels at Monica.daniels@detroitmi.gov Mail: Monica Daniels Detroit Water and Sewerage Department 735 Randolph, 7th Floor Detroit, MI 48226 Written comments will be accepted at the above address if received prior to 2:00 p.m. EST, Wednesday, May 19, 2021.

If any member of the public wants to speak during public comment, you must email dwsd-publicaffairs@detroitmi.gov prior to 2:00 p.m. on the date of the meeting with your name, the phone number you will be using to call in, if you plan to provide your comment during this hearing and/or during the Board of Water Commissioners public comment period at the same meeting, and a brief description of comments. Your phone number will not be revealed to anyone else dialing into the meeting. OR If you do not want to leave your phone number, you may email your comments to dwsd-publicaffairs@detroitmi.gov prior to 2:00 p.m. and your comments will be read into the record at the Board meeting during public comment.

City of Detroit, Water and Sewerage Department Gary Brown, Director

Published Every Wednesday

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Classifieds ANNOUNCEMENTS

April 21-27, 2021 • michiganchronicle.com • Page B-5 HELP WANTED

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Orchard Academy, a New Tuition-Free

REQUEST FOR QUOTES

Public School Academy, announces its Open Enrollment Period for the 2021-2022 school year for grades K-2.

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is soliciting RFQs for Information Post Box Sign Holder, Control No. 21-3320.

RFQ forms may be obtained beginning April 21, 2021, from http://www.mitn.info. RFQs are due by 3:00 PM ET, May 14, 2021.

Applications may be picked up at 9425 John R Street, Detroit, MI 48202 or online at https://www.orcharddetroit.org/.

Hours to pick up applications will be April 26, 2021 thru May 10, 2021 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Monday-Friday; Thursday, May 6, 2021: 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm; Saturday, May 8, 2021: 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

If applications exceed the number of available spaces, a random selection will be held at 10301 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48202, on May 24, 2021 at 3:00 pm.

HIPAA PRIVACY OFFICER

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ADVERTISEMENT FOR INVITATION FOR BID Project:

River Rouge Housing Commission

The HIPAA Privacy Officer serves as the CMU wide leader in HIPAA compliance and is responsible for planning and directing the university’s HIPAA privacy program. Required: A minimum of bachelor’s degree, in healthcare administration, health information management, business or a related field.

At least five years of professional experience in health care compliance related positions; or a minimum of 2 years of direct experience in HIPAA compliance including building and developing a HIPAA program within an academic hybrid entity.

For a complete list of requirements and to apply on-line, please visit www.jobs.cmich.edu.

“CMU, an AA/EO institution, strongly and actively strives to increase diversity and provide equal opportunity within its community. CMU does not discriminate against persons based on age, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, height, marital status, national origin, political persuasion, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, race, religion, sex, sex-based stereotypes, sexual orientation, transgender status, veteran status, or weight (see http://www.cmich.edu/ocrie).”

Wear a mask that fits well with no gaps

Stay at least 6 feet from others Avoid crowds and poorly ventilated spaces Get a vaccine when it’s available to you General public health information

HELP WANTED

Sewer System Rehabilitation Project Owner:

Wear a mask.

Save lives.

River Rouge Housing Commission 180 Visger Road River Rouge, Ml. 48218 313-382-1414 - Office enugin@riverrougehousing.com

Project Description: RRHC Project: REF# 2019CFP2021_01 Request for Proposal for “Sewer System Rehabilitation Project” Description: The purpose of this document is to make known the emergency plumbing issues that has occurred and to get units back to functioning properly. Sealed Bids for the re-construction of the Sanitary Sewer System Rehabilitation Project.

The location where emergency plumbing services needed are as follows:

Join Our Team Walker-Miller Energy Services is hiring!

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6-unit building - 289, 291, 293, 293 ½, 295, 297 Goodell 4-unit building w- (4) basement -single cleanouts - 508, 510, 512, 514 Superior 4-unit building w- (4) basement-single cleanouts - 503, SOS, 507, 509 Superior 4-unit building - 542, 544, 544 ½, 546 Beechwood For Bid packets you can email: jwilliams@riverrougehousing.com

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• Bids have been extended until April 23, 2021

TUTORING

An Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer Minority/Women Owned Business Enterprise are encouraged to apply.

River Rouge Housing Commission Advertisement Invitation for Bidders The River Rouge Housing Commission is requesting Invitation for Bidders for services of 300 Public Housing dwelling units, Hyacinth Court II Community Center, and its Main office.

Bid documents will be available on our website (www.riverrougehousing.com) in the RFP section for you to print out on April 16, 2021 and or you can request an email from jwilliams@riverrougehousing.com. Sealed Invitations for bidders will be received for the list below by the River Rouge Housing Commission until 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 19, 2021. Bids received after 3:00 p.m. on May 19, 2021 will be rejected and returned unopened to the bidder. For more information, contact Jessica Williams at the above email address, our Executive Director, Eboni Nugin @ enugin@riverrougehousing.com., and or call the River Rouge Housing Commission at (313) 382-1414.

Invitations for Bidders & Pre-Bid meeting schedule Thursday May 6, 2021 are as follows: a. Comprehensive Maintenance/Vacant Unit Prep

@ 12:00 p.m.

b. Locksmith Services

@ 1:00 p.m.

c. Windows/Screens Repairs & Replacement

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d. Storm/Entry Door Repairs & Services

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you’veever everthought thought about tutoring, IfIfyou’ve about tutoring, nownow youyou can get can get started from the comfort of your started from the comfort of your own home. own home.

Dominican Literacy Center invites you you to a Tutor Dominican Literacy Center invites to a Tutor Training Workshop on Zoom.

Saturday, May 1, 8 and Training Workshop on Zoom. Saturday, May 1, 8 15, 2021 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. and 15, 2021 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Thesesessions sessions teach to work an These willwill teach you you to work with with an adult adult learner whohelp needs withmath reading, math learner who needs withhelp reading, and English and English language skills. language skills.

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Call 313.267.1000 or visit www.dlcliteracy.org to register for this free training. register for this free training.

Voice of the Community at your fingertips.

Interested Bidders may obtain Bid documents from the River Rouge Housing Commission Website: (www.riverrougehousing.com) NOTE: All AWARDED CONTRACTS WILL BE FOR TWO YEARS • All Bids must be submitted on Prescribed forms; • We are an Equal Opportunity Employment Agency (All Bid information is Due Wednesday May 19, 2021 @ 3:00 p.m.)

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• michiganchronicle.com • April 21-27, 2021

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209

Per Mo.

Includes $1000 TFS Lease Subvention Cash.

any new 2021 COROLLA

COROLLA

UP TO

2000 CUSTOMER CASH Includes Hatchback

$

2

$1500 on ‘21 Corolla (includes Hatchback) • $2000 on ‘21 Corolla Hybrid

1

0.9% APR Financing for 60 Mos.

-or-

7

-or- Lease a new

-or- ‘21 Corolla Hybrid 0% APR Financing for 60 Mos.5

2021 COROLLA LE

8

CVT 4-Door Sedan Gas Model #1852

36 Mo. | 30,000-Mile Lease

36 Mos. | $2999 Due at Signing $

129

Per Mo.

Includes $500 TFS Lease Subvention Cash.

any new 2021 AVALON includes TRD & AWD

AVALON

TOTAL 3000 CUSTOMER CASH 0.9% 60 + UP TO

$

2

$3000 on ‘21 Avalon AWD • $2000 on ‘21 Avalon • $2500 on ‘21 Avalon Hybrid

1

-or-

$1000 AWD BONUS CASH ON AWD MODELS! 9 -or- ‘21 Avalon Hybrid 0% APR Financing for 60 Mos.5

APR Financing for

7

Mos.

$1000 AWD Bonus Cash included in all Avalon AWD Offers 9

-or- Lease a new

2021 AVALON XLE AWD

10

8-Speed AT ECT-i 4-Door AWD Sedan Gas Model #3555

36 Mo. | 30,000-Mile Lease

36 Mos. | $2999 Due at Signing

409

$ Expanded Toyota Military Rebate Program For

MILITARY PERSONNEL & THEIR FAMILES Ask about the

500

$

500

$

COLLEGE GRAD REBATE PROGRAM

OVER & ABOVE ALL OTHER INCENTIVES!

12

Per Mo.

OVER & ABOVE ALL OTHER INCENTIVES! 11

INCLUDES $1,000 AWD BONUS CASH! 9

NOW INCLUDES ALL RETIRED MILITARY (Regardless of Time Since Retirement)

ACTIVE-DUTY & INACTIVE RESERVE MILITARY PERSONNEL HONORABLY DISCHARGED VETERANS Within 2 Years of Service See dealer for details.

Every New Toyota Comes With ToyotaCare

13

2-Year No Cost Maintenance Plan

VISIT YOUR LOCAL MICHIGAN TOYOTA DEALER TODAY! FOR ALL TOYOTA OFFERS AND TO FIND A DEALER NEAR YOU 1. Toyota vehicles and components are built using U.S. and globally sourced parts. 2. Customer Cash direct from Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. 3. New 2021 Highlander (includes hybrid). 1.9% APR for 60 Months with $17.48 per $1,000 borrowed* 4. New 2021 Highlander L FWD Model 6935. Lease based on net cap cost of $31,975. Lease end purchase option $25,118.** 5. New 2021 Camry (includes hybrid), 2021 Corolla Hybrid, and new 2021 Avalon Hybrid 0.0% APR for 60 Months with $16.67 per $1,000 borrowed.* 6. New 2021 Camry LE 2532. Lease based on net cap cost of $21,608. $1,000 Toyota Financial Services Lease Subvention Cash included in lease deal. Lease end purchase option $14,161.** 7. New 2021 Corolla & new 2021 Corolla Hatchback (excludes Corolla hybrid), and new 2021 Avalon (excludes Avalon hybrid). 0.9% APR for 60 Months with $17.05 per $1,000 borrowed.* 8. New 2021 Corolla LE Model 1852. Lease based on net cap cost of $17,649. $500 Toyota Financial Services Lease Subvention Cash included in lease deal. Lease end purchase option $13,127.** 9. $1,000 Bonus Cash on new 2021 Avalon AWD Models Only. Bonus Cash can be combined with Customer Cash or TFS Subvened APR or TFS Subvened Lease incentives (already calculated into the 2021 Avalon AWD $3000 TOTAL Customer Cash above: $2,000 Customer Cash + $1,000 AWD Bonus Cash & the Lease Offer noted below). 10. New 2021 Avalon XLE AWD Model 3555. Lease based on net cap cost of $31,286. $1,000 AWD Bonus Cash included in lease deal. Lease end purchase option $19,007.** 11.

Qualified military personnel and household members of eligible qualifying military personal are eligible for rebates in addition to all other incentives, depending on model, through Toyota Motor Sales USA, Inc., when leased or financed through Toyota Financial Services. Must take retail delivery from select new dealer stock. The Toyota Military Rebate Program is not compatible with the Toyota College Rebate Program. See participating dealer or visit buyatoyota.com for complete details. 12. The Toyota College Rebate Program is not compatible with the Military Rebate Program. See participating dealer or visit buyatoyota.com for complete details. 13. ToyotaCare covers normal factory scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. Certain models require a different maintenance schedule as described in their Maintenance Guide. 24-hour roadside assistance is also included for two years and unlimited mileage. Roadside Assistance does not include parts and fluids, except emergency fuel delivery. See Toyota dealers for details and exclusions. Valid only in the continental U.S. and Alaska. * For 3, 5 & 7 – Subject to approved credit through Toyota Financial Services Tier 1+ & 1 only. Not all customers will qualify for lowest rate – see dealer for terms and conditions. ** For 4, 6, 8 & 10 – NO SECURITY DEPOSIT. Subject to approved credit through Toyota Financial Services. Not all customers will qualify – Tier I PLUS customers ONLY. Excludes state and local taxes, tags, registration and title, and insurance. License and applicable fees are extra. Other options and dealer charges extra. Your payment may vary depending on final price. Lessee may be charged for excessive wear based on Toyota Financial Services standards for normal use and for mileage in excess of 30,000 miles at the rate of $0.15 per mile (10K low mileage leases). $350 Disposition Fee is due at lease termination. For 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 & 12 – Must take retail delivery from new 2021 dealer stock between 4/1/21 and 5/3/21. APR, Customer Cash & Lease offers may not be combined.

See participating dealer for complete details. Individual dealer prices and document fees may vary. VEHICLE IMAGES USED FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY. Expiration for these offers is 5/3/21.