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Michigan Chronicle

Vol. 84 – No. 39 |

June 2-8, 2021

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Redistricting Commission Gears Up to Redraw District Lines

By Megan Kirk Results of the Census continue to impact Michiganders as new district lines are set to be redrawn after 10 years. Drawing district boundaries and collecting an accurate account of Americans of all demographics across the country has long since been the basis of political debate spanning decades.

For more than 150 years, drawing districts has been left to state legislatures with no input from the citizens who new laws, policies and candidates would directly affect. Now, Michigan is bringing in randomly selected residents to draw district lines.

In November 2018, people across the state voted in favor of Proposal 2 and elected to relieve politicians of their duties to draw district lines and replace them with everyday citizens. The non-profit organization Voters Not Politicians collected the signatures needed to get the proposal on the ballot. These Michigan residents would now be tasked with coupling the results of the census and population count and creating federal and legislative lines for each district. Of those selected, native Detroiter Brittni Kellom will represent Independent Citizens one of the 13 Redistricting Com- on the commismission Chairperson sion and help to make history in Brittni Kellom Michigan as the first round of citizens entrusted with this task.

Chosen from different professional and social economic backgrounds, the individuals who make up the Redistricting Commission are not politicians by trade and have no personal stake in creating the new district lines.

Reverend Dr. Steve Bland of Liberty Temple Baptist Church, front, speaks before the press and community on COVID-19 vaccines. Photo courtesy of the Detroit Public Schools Community District

It’s Time To Return:

Faith Leaders and DPSCD Encourage COVID-19 Vaccinations and A Return To School

By Sherri Kolade

timing is key. … We believe this is the right time for a safe return.”

“We’re stronger together … we want our community to be a safe haven. …

(We) want to return to school, church … and even (have) families coming together. At this time, we pray misinformation about vaccinations be erased and we breathe free … we do it in your name amen.”

Bland noted how the COVID-19 pandemic revealed disparities in the healthcare system for Black communities and even with a growing digital divide. To combat some of these issues, he said because Black children in urban communities tend to do “fair better” in the classroom, they should resume school in person. “We anticipate a home run as we stand together and encourage a safe return because our children deserve the very best,” Bland said, adding a boisterous “Take the shot,” and others shouted in unison behind him.

Reverend Dr. Steve Bland of Liberty Temple Baptist Church said a simple and effective prayer that roused the hearts of community members and Black church leaders Thursday, May 27, at his church on Greenfield Road in Detroit.

“We want folks to know about the commission. That we are regular citizens charged with this heavy-duty task,” says Kellom. “We’re the only entity in the state that is authorized to draw and adopt redistricting plans for the state of Michigan.

He prayed the prayer of faith before standing in front of the media and community members during a press conference spreading the word about the importance of the Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) students and staff receiving the COVID19 vaccine and encouraging in-person learning.

The Rose Institute of State and Local Government defines redistricting as “the regular process of adjusting the lines of voting districts in accordance with population shifts.” Known as the Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission (MICRC), 13 Michiganders have been selected at random from a pool of thousands of applicants to represent the state.

Bland, president of the Council of Baptist Pastors of Detroit and the Vicinity, made the call to action for the return to school by the fall for Detroit’s teachers and students in support of the DPSCD and the Detroit Federation of Teachers (DFT) following a school year of in-person suspensions and resumptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a press release.

“The application process was the same for everybody. I applied and there were several rounds and then the last part was basically us being out in a randomized system,” says Kellom.

The commission is made up of four self-identified Democrats, four Republicans, and five independents to help

Bland, and many other faith leaders who joined him in solidarity that day, stood maskless as a testament to their efficacy in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine and their faith in God and science.

See REDISTRICTING page A2

WHAT’S INSIDE

“This is an important time,” Bland said of the “key message” of getting the community vaccinated. “All those who stand today, we believe (the) right

DPSCD’s Superintendent Dr. Nikolai Vitti, Board of Education, and DFT, among others, also spoke during the hour-long event on how restarting in-person learning is optimal.

“The faith-based community has always been with our children,” Vitti said, adding that the school district wants to meet the school community and children where they are. “Today is about announcing all of us coming together …. and doing so with equitable resources.”

Vitti said that a new summer experience (revamped summer school) works for students to catch up on what they might have missed during the pandemic.

Vitti said that about 7,000 students are in learning centers across the district, with approximately 1,000 students receiving direct in-person learning from the district’s 50,000 students. About 600 teachers are working in person – a figure that has increased over the last couple of months from 500.

“The rest of the students are learning online,” he said of pre-kindergarten

to 12th graders.

Vitti added that the student attendance numbers are down from 10-18% pre-pandemic rates.

“Our students are falling behind,” he said, adding that they are needed back in person.

The school district’s fall plan entails hiring more teachers, offering online learning options for students not failing classes or chronically absent.

DPSCD parent Sharene Nathan said that her family is a pillar of the community. She has gone into the community encouraging others to receive the vaccine and bring their children back into schools because schools are safe.

“I urge all my parents to lean not on your own understanding as the good book says,” Nathan passionately said. “Lean on what the research says.

I myself have been vaccinated. … I’m able to go out in my community and do the work I love doing. … Think about it pray on it but send your child back to school. It is safe and that is where they need to be.”

The Council said DPSCD’s safety mitigation measures such as mandatory mask wearing for students, teachers, and staff; daily symptom and temperature checks; social distancing procedures, deep cleaning protocols, and weekly testing have been indicators of DPSCD’s ongoing pledge to provide a safe in-person learning environment for its students, teachers, and staff, according to a press release. The Council also called upon the community to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, noting DPSCD’s Teens for Vaccines campaign and the work of other Council and community organizations that have held

See RETURN

Affordable Housing Coming to Corktown as Detroit Picked for $30M HUD Grant

By Sherri Kolade

bring an incredible amount of positive change to a neighborhood,” said Julie Schneider, acting director of the Housing & Revitalization Department. “But that change does not have to come at the cost of residents who have called this neighborhood home. We, as a city, should protect those residents.”

Big changes are coming to the historic Corktown area on the housing development front all thanks to a multimillion-dollar grant from the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD).

COVID Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts

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TO SCHOOL page A2

To be exact, 500 affordable housing units are on its way through the city’s Corktown for Everyone vision, an integrated neighborhood for residents of mixed incomes.

During a press conference on May 25, Mayor Mike Duggan and others spoke about the project as part of the mayor’s pledge to stand against gentrification and residential displacement as

neighborhoods grow.

The announcement also means that Clement Kern Gardens will be completely rebuilt from the ground up and all existing residents will be given a chance to stay

without having to pay higher rents for their new, higher-quality housing units.

Construction on the first new development is slated to start this year.

“A project of this size can

HUD selected Detroit as a winner of its highly competitive Choice Neighborhoods grant program which will allow Detroit to bring more than 500 new units of affordable housing to the rapidly-developing Corktown neighborhood. Detroit, which is among just five

See HUD

GRANT page A2

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HUD Grant From page A-1

cities selected, will receive a $30-million HUD grant, the largest amount offered under the Choice program.

The HUD grant is supported by $1.01 billion in leverage commitments from grant partners, including Ford’s new $740-million mobility campus and other economic development initiatives in Greater Corktown.

The Detroit neighborhood has seen its fair share of increasing rent prices as a result of new development, but now with over $200 million invested in 840 new units of housing to be completed over the next six years, at least 60 percent (504 units) of will be set aside as affordable housing units to ensure that Detroiters of all income levels can afford to live there: • 40 percent of the new units will serve households earning between 30 and 80 percent of area median income (AMI); or no more than $50,000 for a two-person household.

• 20 percent of the units will serve households making up to 30 percent of AMI, meaning no more than $19,000 per year for a two-person household.

• Additionally, 20 percent of the units will serve households earning 80 to 120 percent AMI, or no more than $76,000 based on a two-person household.

• Only the remaining 20 percent of the units would be able to be rented at the market rate.

“This is the city we are trying to build, where longtime Detroiters know they won’t be pushed out by development and where residents of all income levels can live side by side in quality housing in any neighborhood in the city,” said Duggan. “Our housing and planning teams put together a fantastic plan and we are grateful to Secretary Marcia Fudge and the Biden administration for their confidence in the good work we are doing to prevent gentrification and displacement.”

Duggan also thanked state housing officials for their support.

“MSHDA has been a great partner to Detroit and we are deeply appreciative to Director Gary Heidl and his team for their support during this process,” he said.

The planning area for this initiative is bounded

by Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to the north, Fort Street to the south, the Fisher Freeway to the west, and Lodge Freeway to the east – encompassing both historic Corktown and North Corktown. Along with new housing, the grant will help Detroit leverage tens of millions of dollars in infrastructure improvements, better public spaces, more amenities and a community hub with early childhood education and health services for residents.

One resident who spoke during the press conference said that this win is not just for the local community but for “affordable housing everywhere.”

“For so long we’ve had affordable housing where it is just a pocket of poverty and now [we’re] going to have mixed development,” the Clement Kern Gardens resident said. “It means just so much more to me than having a place to live. ... I look forward to the development and the future of housing and the future of how this is done across the country. ... we’re going to show you how to do this right.”

The plan is focused on three key areas.

The left field of the former site of Tiger Stadium: The first phase of development on this 3.7-acre site along the Fisher Service Drive and Cochrane Street will see a new, $29-million 120unit development being erected that will feature 48 units of affordable housing ranging from 30 to 80 percent area median income (AMI). The project, developed by American Community Developers (ACD), was selected last year for Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) funding. Work is to begin this summer.

Clement Kern Gardens: This 7-acre site currently features 87 townhome-style units of affordable housing built

Redistricting From page A-1

create a sense of neutrality. Detroit’s Brittni Kellom, who identifies as a Democrat and is a Trauma Practitioner, serves as the MICRC Chairperson. Applying because she wanted to impact the voting experience and give a voice to underrepresented communities, the chairperson is actively working to give everyday residents a bigger impact in the roles that affect them.

Before the 2018 Independent Redistricting Commission Initiative was passed, state legislatures had the advantage of drawing lines to represent and favor their party, typically leaning towards whichever party held office at that time. As a result, former lines have been drawn in a way that arguably impacted voting for residents. Preventing gerrymandering or drawing lines to purposely benefit one political party over another, is just one of the goals for the newest commission.

“Before this time, it was something politicians did behind closed doors.

There was a history of gerrymandering and we figure out how we are doing to redraw the lines in the state in a way that is fair and transparent and reflects the pulse and identities of folks from

in 1985. When it was built, the site was isolated, with berms and a fence around it, and streets were cut off. Under the plan, the structures would be razed and rebuilt in phases beginning no sooner than 2023. All current residents would have the option to stay in the rebuilt Clement Kern Gardens or be given priority to move into another Corktown property. Most important, existing residents, no matter their income, will see their current rents continue to be based on their income with their housing needs and status prioritized throughout the project.

The site also would see the street grid restored to help reconnect the community with the neighborhood and mixed-income housing would be added to create a more integrated community. Clement Kern is owned by ACD. North Corktown: Controlled by the city are 143 vacant lots spread across 14.6 acres that will see new infill housing built on the site. The framework also calls for a new neighborhood service hub and outdoor recreation area to be built upon the former site of the Owen School, replacing a longtime concern in the neighborhood.

The Corktown plan represents the first time Detroit has been selected to receive a Choice grant.

“This has been the most comprehensive and ambitious planning project Detroit has undertaken in a generation,” said Katy Trudeau, acting director of the Detroit’s Planning & Development Department. “The fact that our plan was chosen speaks to the incredible team of planners, housing experts and dedicated city staff that we have working on designing a Detroit that brings the community into the planning process and helps create a city where all are welcome and all can benefit from the city’s turnaround.”

“The revitalization underway in our city is incredible, but we need to ensure that Detroiters who have stayed aren’t squeezed out of their neighborhoods,” said Donald Rencher, group executive for Housing, Planning and Development. “With all the eco-

Michigan,” says Kellom.

Creating a diverse and inclusive group which represents the various backgrounds of Michiganders in another goal of the commission. Ensuring everyone has an equal say, the commission recently began accepting comments from the public in how the lines should be drawn.

The importance of the census continues to show itself now that the count has concluded. Official numbers will not be available until September 30 with final maps due November 1, 2021, according to the Michigan constitution.

The summer will likely be a busy time as the commission works to complete redrawing the districts.

“We are seeking an extension through the Michigan Supreme Court,” says Kellom.

Residents of the state will also have the chance to have their voices heard.

The MICRC will hold public hearing sessions from now through the beginning of July to give residents the chance to submit questions, maps of their neighborhoods or make comments all in the efforts to adequately draw the district lines to represent each Michigander.

“This is not a game or a joke. This is a very genuine opportunity for everyday folks in the community to have an influence and an impact,” says Kellom.

nomic development happening in Corktown, it is critical that there is affordable housing developed alongside it. Given the tremendous investment and trends that we are seeing, we are at an important time to ensure Corktown remains a place where Detroiters of all walks of life are welcome.”

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Return to School From page A-1 vaccination events.

Using science and data and getting input from local and national public health experts and agencies, DPSCD had paused in-person learning options at times this school year when infection rates exceeded DPSCD safety thresholds and access to the vaccine was not widespread. To help families better manage the burdens with full online learning, DPSCD added wraparound services such as the Technology and Family Resource Hubs and called attention to the need for emotional support for students and families through Home Visits a Mental Health Hotline. Similarly, leaders and members of the faith-based Council have provided an array of support services to their followers to help ease the anxiety and stress of living through the pandemic.

“On behalf of the board, I am proud and very encouraged by the support we

received today. As we stand with DFT, our teachers, and families, this is one step closer to getting our students and teachers back in the classroom. We are anxious to get back to our reform work and fulfilling our mission to equip Detroit students with the education they deserve,” said Angelique Peterson-Mayberry, Board President, DPSCD. Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony, Detroit NAACP Chapter president, added during the event that teaching is one of the “noblest professions” that one can have, and it’s vital to get back to it in person.

“Teachers are invaluable -- parents are the key to what their children will aspire to be,” Anthony said, adding that for many, the school is a home away from home, and it’s time for things to fall back in place. “We must learn to trust each other. If something is wrong let’s fix it. ... Our children deserve our best efforts. We can do this and do it together. After all, our children do matter.”

For more information, visit detroitk12.org and follow @detroitk12 on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

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| June 2-8, 2021

Detroiter Pens a Novel Dedicated to Widows

Roots.

michiganchronicle.com

By Megan Kirk Losing a loved one is hard. The emotional and mental scars of memories will hurt in their absence. Experiencing the death of a spouse is a compounded experience full of sorrow and questions. Sometimes with nowhere to turn, widows embark on a life-changing and unknown journey alone. A woman who knows the sting of losing a spouse chose to write a book, but in penning the deeply personal novel created a bond and sisterhood rooted in pain, perseverance and overcoming.

A Widow’s Resilience: Wisdom Keys for Moving in Life and Love After Death Do Us Part began as a small thought.

Writing what was not expected to be a book, the author begins to pen her feelings. Although the writings began as a way to release the heartache following the death of her husband, thoughts became a chapter. Stashing it away for some time, not ready to open up to that degree, COVID provided the time and the reflection to begin writing again. The author allowed a few close friends to read her thoughts. From there, the spark was ignited.

COVID Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts

By Megan Kirk

LaTanya Orr “The seeds were planted for this project two weeks after my husband’s death, so my grief was new, and my feelings were raw. I wrote out my thoughts and shared it with a friend, and other widows who understood what I was experiencing. They insisted that I turn my thoughts into a book.

Once I discovered so many other women who were like me, I decided to create an anthology. Doing this has been like therapy in motion,” says LaTanya Orr, the book’s author and creator.

Building the team of co-authors was inviting them on their own path of self-healing. Realizing she knew several widows, she reached out to over 20 windows to share the idea of a healing novel, 13 jumped on board. Each woman, married for four to over 40 years before losing their spouse, began to share their individual experiences with grief and recovery.

“My mentor said ‘LaTanya, make a list of all the widows you know’ when I came up with over 25 women that I knew personally. What I did was put together an author interest call and did it on Zoom, invited everybody and they joined in and the rest is sort of history,” says Orr. This is just the beginning for the

See RESILIENCE page A-4

To greet or not to greet? That is the question. Post-era COVID is leaving a trail of unanswered questions as the world staggers to recover from the pandemic. Businesses, schools and other gathering spaces are beginning to open and people are re-emerging. Social skills and cues have been tested over the past year. Reduced to fist or elbow bumps and other creative ways, what is the proper way to meet and greet with fast-changing guidelines and recommendations?

During the pandemic, the world became used to COVID etiquette and its new socially acceptable interactions.

As vaccinations slowly ramp up across the nation, a sense of normalcy is taking form. Despite the CDC’s latest mask mandates being lifted and the containment of the virus, there still exists pockets of the population who wish to continue with social distancing, limited contact and avoiding large spaces.

Hugs and handshakes have become distant things of the past. With the introduction of COVID, limiting personal contact was at an all-time high. Used as one of the most widespread greetings, handshakes have been revamped and are including some creative takes on a classic. Fist pounds, foot taps and elbow bumps are becoming increasingly popular as replacements for the handshake. Some are even bringing back a vintage foot dance from 1980s hip hop duo, Kid ‘n Play. Others are sticking to the basics of communication postCOVID. “I feel the most acceptable way to greet is verbal acknowledgement and or waving,” says Jada Clayton, a director in the mortgage industry.

Masks have covered faces for over a year. Unable to take social cues from

facial expressions, communication is continuing to shift post-pandemic and it seems virtually impossible to keep up.

“I am looking forward to getting as close to normal as possible. However, it’s important to respect personal boundaries and space. I will still be masked up and would prefer others to keep some distance,” says Clayton.

Across the world, different cultures and religions have different ways of greeting and showing honor without direct contact. For one etiquette coach, the pandemic has created a way to adapt to new styles “My Japanese clients were way ahead of the curve with their ritualistic bow paired with greetings, which expresses respect, kindness and warmth, but maintains ample distance from your counterpart,” says Danielle Kovachevich, founder and lead coach of Detroit Academy of Etiquette. “My point being, we can do this. We can conduct business, we can show kindness and make others feel important without close interaction. Let’s not give up on connecting with humans. Let’s just get creative.”

The CDC now suggests fully vaccinated people no longer have to mask up or socially distance and are now able to gather together in enclosed spaces.

However, it is impossible to determine vaccination status by just appearance alone. According to data collected by the State of Michigan, more than 56 percent of residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine and 39 percent of the state is fully vaccinated.

Sparking conversation around the choice to vaccinate is taboo. Laced with concerns about HIPAA violations, individuals are adding to their greetings and warm welcomes with questions on status and vaccine brand preference.

“The proper way to ask if someone is vaccinated, is NOT to ask. This is a very personal and emotionally charged topic for a lot of people. Many people feel judged for their answer and therefore don’t want to engage,” says Kovachevich.

Vaccines are becoming increasingly widespread and gatherings are beginning to grow. Weddings, graduations, proms and other summer staples are taking place in many towns. While guests may welcome the in-person social interactions, concerns of COVID will continue to loom in the background. The pandemic continues to affect communities and guests may have questions about vaccination statuses or social distancing measures.

“If you are hosting a gathering, understand that people may be inquiring about the status of your guests or your vaccinations. If you are willing to engage in these conversations and still can have a good time hosting, go for it.

If this topic is too emotionally driven for you, maybe hold off on hosting or attending gatherings at this time,” says Kovachevich.

Just as news surrounding the pandemic continues to evolve, so does the proper way to address its effects. COVID will continue to shift norms and force changes to which the masses must adapt. As a standing piece of advice, maintaining social distancing is a personal choice and one that requires no explanation.

“If you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, where someone is getting too close, you absolutely can politely and kindly let them know you aren’t quite ready for close contact just yet but are hopeful that you will soon.

Do not feel you need a long, drawn-out explanation as well.,” says Kovachevich.

Clean Ridin’: Detroit East Riders Bike Club Keeps Things Spinnin’

By Sherri Kolade

According to https://www.active.com/, there are numerous reasons to join a bike club, some of the main ones involve camaraderie, staying connected and building a sense of community. For Neeley, it’s all of the above. His fellow bike friends have formed a sort of brother- and sisterhood where cycling is how they unwind and end the day -- long after many people are already asleep in the world.

You can find them out on any given day.

Spokes whizzing, wheels turning, bodies in motion -- pedaling toward destinations with purpose. Other times they just out there, having fun with one another on their bicycles.

The East Riders Bike Club, founded officially in 2008, has been riding ever since the group’s founder, King Wayne Neeley, 50, of Detroit, got the itch to get up and start the club -- his popular group has been unstoppable ever since.

“We hanging out downtown sometimes and get home 3 or 4 in the morning,” he said, adding that his club chips in and puts their money together and grills up good eats like chicken, hot dogs and more. He’s even affixed a grill to the back of his bike so when they stop and park, their barbeque is more convenient to eat on the go.

“We would be riding and people ask us are we all a club,” he told The Michigan Chronicle during a recent interview.

“Magazines and others started asking us -- we decided to do a club … and we been rolling ever since.”

The 27-member club, around unofficially since 2005, draws people from all backgrounds and ages and places -- it’s not just restricted to east side residents.

Neeley, who has a passion and talent for creating custom-made bikes into cartoon characters and the like (out of unique materials like couches) said that he and his son would at first take a relaxing ride around the city on Sundays.

“I would ride him downtown on the Riverwalk,” he said, adding that his famous club is known locally and even in other parts of the world. Bike aficionados have featured him and his group in a movie, “Kind of the Streets” and some of his custom bikes were in a museum.

“If we not going to do it right ain’t no need to do it,” he said.

East Riders Bike Club Founder King Wayne Neeley, foreground, is all about community service and camaraderie. Photos provided by King Wayne Neeley They were even featured on the Disney Channel with Jeff Goldblum.

“We do a lot of stuff we don’t put online,” he said, adding that his group feeds the homeless, gives those in need daily living essentials and more. And with some in the group coming from humble backgrounds themselves, their generosity is even more appreciated by those on the receiving end. And Neeley said that for people to join (and receive a cherished club shirt), they have to vol-

unteer their time.

“You got to do community service.

Whatever you can bring … everybody doesn’t have a lot of money,” he said, adding that when the group gets together, they brainstorm on ways to feed others and better their community while hanging out. “A lot of people like to smoke weed or drink -- to each its own.

The bike culture is built on that. Like I told them -- I’m not doing it if we’re not going to do it right.”

Neeley said that he has seen how the bike club trend is growing and thriving in the city.

“Now there are 100 clubs … you start off riding with family and friends … and start a club,” he said, adding that his group travels all over the United States to different biking events -- along with local big events like the weekly Slow Roll bike ride.

“They call us the bike mecca -- the Eastside Riders pretty much pushed it out first,” he said of his bike club.

Neeley, who has a few big surprises up ahead with his club (he didn’t want

See BIKE CLUB page A-4

Page A-4 • michiganchronicle.com •

Resilience From page A-3

author. Since COVID, many wives have found themselves widowed while continuing to face the ongoing effects of the silent enemy. Plans for a second instillation are in the works. While the co-authors of the first volume did not lose husbands due to COVID, this time the stories will be centered around those who have lost their spouse as a cause of the pandemic.

With nine women from Detroit and four from various locations across the country, readers will have the opportunity to follow several different experiences and perspectives looking to cope with the same circumstance.

“Quite a few of us were in our forties (when we lost our husbands).

Young widows not necessarily looking to start over, but starting over, moving forward,” says Orr. “These stories, everybody’s perspective is obviously different, but there’s definitely a moving forward, a paradigm shift if you will.”

Happiness is on the other side of grief and several of the co-authors have went on to find both healing and love. Despite taking time to process the loss of their spouses, all of the women have entered new phases in life; some have even said ‘I do’ to marriage.

Bike Club From page A-3

to give them all away) said that no matter what goes on in Detroit, the bike community all comes together. It’s easy to see why with the kind of fierce loyalty people have for the club and a leader who always has their back.

“In my club, they been riding for some years --I don’t just jump anybody in the club; got to know they are going to be around,” Neeley said.

Kristalyn Taylor, 30, of Detroit joined the club last year and said that she has since been on two trips and has helped donate through different charitable events.

June 2-8, 2021

“In terms of love, I’m remarried! Several of the women have remarried. It’s the re-marriages which of course is the beautiful story, but then also it’s the rebirth for some of these women. They were able to move forward in life and love,” says orr.

A Widow’s Resilience: Wisdom Keys for Moving in Life and Love After Death Do Us Part is currently available online exclusively at https://www.awidowsresilience.com/. An author interest call for volume two is forthcoming.

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The co-authors are listed as minister and life coach, Marlo Beamon; hotel and hospitality sales executive Patrice Caldwell Gabriel; human resources professional and educator, Veronica Corbett West; retired Registered Nurse and minister, Barbra Gentry Pugh; nonprofit consultant and speaker, Leslie Graham Andrews; Afrocentric doll creator and designer, Doris Hannah Turner; contract analyst and hat designer, Linda Hannah; novelist and indie publisher, LaCharmine Jefferson; Amazon best-selling author and grief energy healing coach, Grace Liang; celebrity photographer, Monica Morgan; hand-crafted jewelry business owner, Wilma Parham; international pastor and teacher, Beatrice Omowumi Yesufu and majority shareholder of the seventh largest African-American owned bank in the United States, Kiko Davis Snoddy.

“It’s been an experience,” she said, adding that her boyfriend started another bike club, D. Town Riders Bike Club, that she frequents, too. “I enjoy their company. I was going to patch up (get a vest) and start riding with them.”

She added that when she first started riding in 2018 she couldn’t go more than two miles without being out of breath -but that’s what changed it all for her.

“You get a different view of your city because when you driving, you not paying attention,” she said, adding that when on a bike there are more opportunities to take detours and see different parts of a neighborhood “that you never would see.”

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| June 2-8, 2021

Money.

michiganchronicle.com

Local Detroiter Launches Firm to Advocate for Environmental Justice

By Megan Kirk The pandemic has helped to expose injustices across many aspects of life. From race and ethnicity to gender and sexual orientation, issues surrounding equality have come to the surface and are now boiling over. Environmental injustice, a lesser mentioned but equally important injustice, is happening every day and affects every community and demographic. Low-income communities and communities of color are especially at risk. A local Detroiter has devoted her career to the environment and has just opened a business to help other companies work to protect the environment.

Dr. Jalonne L. White-Newsome, born and raised in Detroit, launched Empowering a Green Economy and Environment, LLC, in February on her mission to create environmental protection for low income and communities of color. The company serves as a consultation firm guiding other companies to find solutions for climate change, environmental justice and executing equitable solutions to foster healthy communities.

As a child exhibiting an early love for nature and the environment, the young prodigy Dr. Jalonne L. quickly found her White-Newsome life’s work and set on a path that would lead her to many avenues in environmental justice.

“My crush with the environment started in elementary school. At that time, most people had to do Science Fair Projects and all of my projects in elementary school had to do with grass and air pollution and water quality,” says White-Newsome.

While attending Renaissance High School, she had the opportunity to immerse herself in a program that would help to deepen her love for the environment. Dow Chemical provided her the chance to learn how pollution and waste affects communities firsthand.

“When I was at Dow Chemical, this corporation had a responsibility to the communities that they were in and traveled through with trucks of chemicals -- and most accidents happened in low-income communities and communities of color. That got me thinking,” says White-Newsome.

Moving through college receiving a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Northwestern University and a master’s degree in environmental engineering from Southern Methodist University, it was her home state where the scholar earned a Ph.D. in environmental health sciences from the University of Michigan School of Public Health. With expertise in the areas of climate change, public health and racial equity, White-Newsome has used her career to create a healthier environment for generations to come.

“I quickly learned and appreciated, while working for over 20 years in different organizations, that I have perspective and experi-

See ENVIRONMENTAL

JUSTICE page A6

Back To Business:

Local Businesses Respond To Governor Whitmer’s Restriction Lift

By Gatini Tinsley It’s no secret that the Coronavirus pandemic has had a severe impact on communities and business throughout Michigan. Business owners have tried to stay afloat for more than a year since Covid-19 stormed through communities unleashing a sea of restrictions that caused many businesses to cease to exist. The ones remaining have managed to stay afloat eagerly anticipating when life would return to normal.

Last week, they finally got their answer. A monumental announcement from Governor Gretchen Whitmer has local businesses excited to welcome back both new and old faces after facing over a year of challenges from the Coronavirus pandemic.

“We will be able to sing at church, dance at weddings, cheer at games, hug at weddings and laugh together.

I know that is welcome news to so many. We may have one or more targeted orders in place to protect vulnerable populations, but for the most part, life will be back to normal and we can have the kind of independence day we are all looking forward to.”

The news comes of the heels of the CDC’s latest COVID-19 guidelines that state masks are no longer required for vaccinated persons indoors or outdoors despite crowds.This led Governor Whitmer to ditch the previous “Vacc To Normal Plan” that required 70% of Michiganders to be vaccinated before the mask mandate could be lifted two weeks later.

Under Governor Whitmer’s updated plan, June 1, all indoor spaces that include event venues, casinos and fitness centers will be able to move from 30% to 50% volume. Restaurants, bars and nightclubs will no longer have to abide by a “Covid curfew.”

Beginning July 1, all restrictions will be removed as reported by the

Governor from the Dow Diamond in Midland Michigan. “To date, Michigan has administered more than 7.9 million doses of the Covid-19 vaccine. Cases and test positivity have decreased for more than five straight weeks, hospitalizations have declined for three weeks and our Covid metrics have decreased in Michigan and across the country” said Whitmer.

Governor Whitmer also stated that while all restrictions will be lifted July 1, businesses will be able to make their own guidelines individually.

Co-owner of Starters Restaurant’s four locations, Ali Saab, is all smiles, “Welcome back is what I will say. I think that enough people have taken the appropriate measures, have been vaccinated and have taken the right precautions. I think it’s a good measure at the right time, businesses are hurting and people are getting bored sitting in the house.”

Saab’s Fairlane mall location closed several months into the pandemic due to low sales and an inability to staff the location appropriately.

“The virus was the nail in the coffin for that location. Once Covid hit, the mall shut down for a little while and we took a huge dive. The mall is not a huge place for carryout business,” said Saab.

After July 1, Starters will remove the dividers from the bar area, stop face mask requirements, temperature checks and contact tracing. They look forward to serving large groups of guests like they have since 1977 when Starters first location was built off Plymouth Road and Southfield on Detroit’s west side.

But not all businesses are eager to do away with every single rule. Powerhouse Gym owner JB says, “I’m glad for normal, but I think I’m still going to require temperature checks and I may even still wear my mask, I can’t picture myself without it anymore, I

have one in every pocket.”

Powerhouse, located on West Grand River, was closed for the first six months of the pandemic. “It was catastrophic, I was burning through personal money and liquidating things to pay the bills. Even though I was immensely affected by the restrictions, I think the Governor has done a fine job. She was dealing with uncharted territory where she had to move swiftly to keep us safe. Thankfully, after that we were able to reopen, 80 percent of our corps members came back, said AB. Like many fitness centers, AB had a hard time getting customers to keep a mask on while working out. “They would take it off, see me coming and put it on. As soon as I turned around, the mask was off again. As much as I tried to enforce it, it’s hard to make a grown person do something and I wasn’t going to cancel memberships because of it, we needed the money.”

Now that the restrictions will be lifted soon, AB has a message for Detroiters, “Come get that 15 pounds you gained during Covid off with our new special, 99 dollars for 99 days.

I’m proud to have a gym in this city.

I’m a black man with a black business in this Detroit, I couldn’t be prouder to serve you. I could have opened this gym anyplace I wanted, I’m so glad I did it here.”

Business owner Romero Williams owns Wing Snob, a restaurant that took a chance and forged ahead with opening despite the pandemic. “The whole world didn’t know that a pandemic was going to come, so we still had to follow through with an opening plan that was two years in the making.”

When asked if he believes it’s too soon for Michigan to reopen, Williams said, “It’s a two way on that question,

See BACK

TO BUSINESS page A6

Let’s Talk About It: Backtalk at Work and Rising Above It

By Sherri Kolade

is an opportunity to teach others.

Whether you are leading a Fortune 500 company or working as a mid-level manager at a local business, backtalk, gossiping and negative speech toward fellow employees and coworkers can wreak havoc on and off the job. But that’s only if we let it, right? But not so fast, keeping quiet is not the only key.

“I leaned toward optimism – [I am] all about joy,” Berry told The Michigan Chronicle. “How can we find joy in each moment and each opportunity?”

Appropriately addressing race-related conversations needs to happen as of yesterday because, according to https:// builtin.com/, racially and ethnically diverse companies are 35 percent more likely to perform better. Also, diverse companies enjoy 2.3 times more cash flow per employee. It’s not just about the dollars and cents, but making sense, too, of where these racially-motivated conversations could come from.

She added that she also chalks up negative or intentionally disrespectful conversations in the workplace by viewing the speaker as someone who simply lacks education in that area, or they might have unconscious bias.

So, how does one navigate these sometimes-tumultuous situations, especially if race is involved?

For Vice President of Gas Operations at Consumers Energy Tonya Berry she finds that flying above the negativity and finding joy in every encounter

ranking of “America’s Best Employers for Diversity,” recognizing Consumers Energy’s major effort to be a leading company for diversity, equity and inclusion.

Berry finds joy by erring on the side that every conversation she has is coming from a place where the intention was positive.

“I am trying to show up and I am going to be who I am in this conversation,” she said, adding that she shows people who she is through her work ethic. “Earlier in my career, I felt like I had to do more explaining ... telling with words… and more actions. ... I demonstrate it with my actions and work … you can read my credentials. You can make assumptions about how you thought I got there. ...I’d rather demonstrate who I am.”

Respectful conversations and intentional work to build

Vice President of Gas Operations at Consumers Energy Tonya Berry knows her worth and shows up positively as a choice, bringing others along the way. Photo provided by Consumers Energy bridges across races on the job is working at Consumers.

According to a press release, Forbes named Consumers Energy as the top utility company in the country and second overall in Michigan in its latest

“We boldly and unapologetically stand for a diverse, inclusive workplace where everyone’s ideas and contributions are heard and valued, and where everyone feels they belong,” said Angela Thompkins, Consumers Energy’s vice president and chief diversity officer. “This recognition affirms our important work, while we know this is only one step on our journey to build a stronger, more inclusive organization that looks out for its employees and delivers world-class performance to our customers.”

Berry also explained how Consumers Energy is paving the way to incorporate diversity, equity and inclusion into its workforce culture, especially after the tragedy of George Floyd’s death last year.

These moves are resonating with the company’s 8,500 employees.

The company sponsors seven Employee Resource Groups – employee-led teams that sup-

port workers of different backgrounds and promote a diverse culture. The company also took a public stand in support of its Black co-workers and the Black Lives Matter movement following the death of Floyd.

Consumers Energy was also named the No. 1 workplace for women in the energy sector last year.

“As one of Michigan’s largest employers, we’re excited about our DE&I journey, both learning and teaching others we interact with in our daily work,” Thompkins said. “We’re inspired by a vision for the future in which the ideas and contributions of all are heard, valued and celebrated.”

Berry is the first African American woman vice president in the gas company, among other notable recognitions, and she credits this to the progress she sees at Consumers.

“We are breaking barriers – I couldn’t be more proud to be where we are headed,” she said, adding while “it’s not perfect” she knows it’s getting there. “I know we are always committed to create that inclusive culture. ... I can see and feel how we are moving.”

Page A-6 • michiganchronicle.com • June 2-8, 2021

Black Luxe: How Black Women Are Living the High Life

By Megan Kirk

Black women have long been fashion icons.

From rocking classic Afros in the 1970s to bamboo earrings of the 1990s, Black women have shown and proved why their creativity in fashion is both coveted and unmatched. However, luxury and Blackness have not always been synonymous. Access to high-end brands and financial ineptness help keep Black communities shut out of experiencing the finer things in life. For some Black women, it stops with them.

For decades, the fashion industry seemed to shut out women of color.

Reported by the American Association of University Women, Black women are earning college degrees more than their African American male counterparts, and entering the workforce

Environmental Justice From page A-5 ences that position me to effectively work on projects that will create equitable outcomes when it comes to climate change, environmental justice and public health,” says White-Newsome.

The business idea was originally hatched in the early 2000s and shelved.

Life changes caused the business to not see the light of day until much later.

“Back in April 2009 was when the business first got registered with the state of Michigan.

Due to life changes, having a baby, changing jobs and relocating with my spouse, we didn’t have a chance to do anything with the business to grow it,” says White-Newsome.

Now, White-Newsome has started the very personal journey of making her mark in the fight for environmental justice.

Just two months after opening Empowering a Green Economy and Environment along with a booked set of clients, White-Newsome was certified by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council.

Impacting low-income communities and communities of color at large, environmental disparities, including dumping waste, access to clean water and pollution, are

thy of it. It really boggles my mind.”

Now, with a Birkin bag in hand, and red bottom soles, Black women are taking a piece of luxury-living for themselves and being unapologetic.

Indulging in luxury is becoming more widespread, particularly amongst millennial women and they are undeniably living their best lives. Encouraging other Black women to join the ranks, the luxe lifestyle is beginning to spread and the future never looked so bright.

causing a lower quality of life and can be tied to ongoing or chronic and acute health challenges.

“If we’re going to really see the change we need to see in our society and even beyond environmental, if we’re really going to achieve equity, then it starts with our institutions; companies deploying our electricity, the company that’s giving water. If we don’t arm that leadership with the proper tools and knowledge to change the institutional stuff that has got us in this position, then we’re going to have this same conversation ten years from now,” says White-Newsome.

Before launching her consulting business, the entrepreneur worked as the senior program officer at The Kresge Foundation, heading the Environment Program’s grant portfolio on Climate Resilient and Equitable Water Systems.

In addition to the business, the environmental warrior works with the State of Michigan’s Environment, Great Lakes and Energy Department’s Office of the Environmental Justice Public Advocate to facilitate conversations across Michigan to understand environmental justice concerns and opportunities to build stronger partnerships and improve human health.

Exclusion of Black women from their rightful place in fashion is not limited to purchasing expensive goods or traveling first class. Extending to modeling and representation, Black women are a very small minority of fashion supermodels and rarely featured in beauty campaigns. Years of exclusion have amounted to less representation in the fashion world.

because of it. With 64 percent earning bachelor’s and 71 percent of master’s degrees, Black women are using education as a launching pad for success. As more Black women enter the workforce, leveling the financial field, brunch, shopping sprees and five-star vacations are becoming the norm.

“Black women are aspiring to live unapologetically and exist loudly! Social media accounts and influencers have inspired Black women to dream big and to envision a life of abundance,” says Ashley Frye, a local fashion blogger who advocates for luxury. “Black women are starting to enjoy the finer things in life and are unashamed to show it! We have started to reject the

bare minimum and be in tune with our worth more than ever before.”

While Black women continue to set the trend in fashion and luxury, naysayers attempt to box in their experiences and put limitations on their lifestyles. Often, Black women feel the pressure to dim their light so as to not offend others, and in the case of choosing a high-end lifestyle, it is no different.

In 2016, 27-year-old model and fashion blogger Deddeh Howard took a loud stance against racism in the fashion industry. After reportedly being told no by several modeling agencies for what the model believes is her skin tone, she decided to take matters into her own hands. Enlisting the help of her boyfriend, a photographer, the model who was also in medical school, recreated iconic fashion spreads from giants like Guess, Chanel,

Gucci and Louis Vuitton, and called the collection Black Mirror.

Now, with over 200,000 followers on Instagram, the African model is using her voice to promote and advocate for Black models in the fashion industry. Founding the Black Mirror Project, Howard has created a home where Black models are not tolerated, but celebrated.

“We must continue to normalize black luxury amongst Black women. We absolutely need to continue to dominate social media and use our platform to support and show an overflow of love to Black women,” says Frye.

Despite laying the blueprint for many brands, Black women are shut out of conversations surrounding luxury. Be it travel, clothing or accessories, there is a stigma against Black women indulging in expense. The time for change is long overdue.

“If a Black woman chooses to indulge in luxury, it’s a backlash.

It’s a feeling of ‘We don’t deserve it’ or we should minimize our successes and rewards so it does not offend others,” says Frye.

“People will literally ask how did an accomplished Black woman attain her lifestyle and if she’s wor-

Back To Business From page A-5

I understand the customers, I understand the Governor and I understand the owners. But the most important thing is for people to be healthy. As long as our numbers are coming down, I’m with it. We do have to get the economy back going. Governor Whitmer is doing a great job dealing with everything that comes her way.

My hat goes off to her.”

Williams also owns The Romero Group, a commercial construction company that has worked on multiple large scale projects throughout Michigan, including building Little Caesars Arena.

For now, both Wing Snob and The Romero group

will continue to mask up despite the lifted restrictions.

While many businesses wait with baited breath to fully open, some people aren’t happy about the adjustment to the original Vacc to Normal plan. “I have seen first hand the devastation Covid-19 can cause. I won’t be so quick to eat at full capacity indoor restaurants or even go to outdoor concerts.

I’m still going to wear my mask while I track metrics data after July 1. There are people with long term effects from the virus, it’s simply not worth the risk even if you are vaccinated,” said Gyona Crawford, Acclaimed Home Care Nurse.

Congratulations to

Edgar Vann,

VP, Diversity and Inclusion Manager, TCF Bank, for receiving the Michigan Diversity Council’s inaugural 2021 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Racial Justice Advocacy award. Edgar is an extraordinary advocate for racial justice and equity and we thank him for being a change agent for more diverse, equitable, and inclusive environments.

When people pull together, every day is a giant leap forward.

Proud Sponsor of Michigan Chronicle 2021 Pancakes & Politics for driving the change that makes each day better than the one before.

Contact Amy McClain VP, Client & Community Relations Director Amy.McClain@pnc.com

©2021 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved. PNC Bank, National Association. Member FDIC BT PDF 0221-068

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June 2-8, 2020 • michiganchronicle.com • Page A-7

Life’s on pause.

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Help your family and friends schedule their COVID-19 vaccines— and press play.

Because life is waiting.

Find vaccines near you at vaccines.gov or call 1-800-232-0233 to find vaccines near you.

Brought to you by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Page A-8 • michiganchronicle.com •

June 2-8, 2021

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City ity.. Life ife.. Style.

Where City Meets Life and Life Meets Style

B1 | June 2-8, 2021

michiganchronicle.com

Yelitsa Jean-Charles, CEO & founder of Healthy Roots Dolls, with Zoe. Photo provided

by Health Roots Dolls

Power in the Puffs: Healthy Roots Dolls Now on Target.com

By Sherri Kolade “If you know who you are people cannot tell you who you are.”

Those powerful words came from Yelitsa Jean-Charles, CEO & founder of Healthy Roots Dolls, who recently shared with The Michigan Chronicle her passion and purpose behind her creation of a Black, curly-haired doll named Zoe -- who looks like Jean-Charles.

Fashion guru Mira Williams-Estell rocks the ‘90s wearing her bamboo earrings and herringbone chain – a style staple back then and today. Photo provided by Mira Williams-Estell

Detroit-base d sense and u stylist Marv Neal uses rban style to relive the ‘90 his fashion day life. Photo s in his every provided by Marv Neal -

Detroiters Keep the

Zoe, a brown-skinned little girl doll with a head full of thick, dark coils, was the brainchild of Jean-Charles when she started her toy company Healthy Roots Dolls in 2015. Healthy Roots creates dolls and storybooks that teach about natural hair care.

Since founding Healthy Roots Dolls, JeanCharles has raised more than $500,000. She said the Detroit-based doll company has generated “six figures” in sales.

The reception has grown a loyal fanbase and following of Black girls (among others) and their parents who have fallen in love with the little doll who looks like them.

That representation is desperately needed as evidenced through a recent collaboration with Target.

This past February Target started selling the doll on its website, www. target.com, which Mikayla Miles loves her Jean-Charles is doll, Zoe. Photo provided more than thrilled

by Health Roots Dolls about.

Going While Staying Fashionably Fresh to Death

By Sherri Kolade Let me take you back. Waaay back.

Back to a time just over three decades ago when Black culture was steadily bangin’ in a golden era where hip hop, fashion and trends collided in the decade of the ‘90s.

This was when Black television truly ruled – “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” and “In Living Color” premiered in 1990. Just two years later “Martin” came out.

The same year, Nelson Mandela was officially freed from jail and “It Never Rains (In Southern California)”

by Tony! Toni! Tone! was released. Also, for the better part of the 1990s, locally, Coleman Young was still mayor.

This illustrious, flashy and larger-than-life decade that was the 1990s (especially in Black culture) is back, boo, and it’s coming in waves to Detroit, a city

that did this era proud.

In early May, the Detroit Pistons and Martin Lawrence announced the launch of a Martin-themed Pistons merchandise line. Nearly thirty years after the iconic Martin show premiered with the city of Detroit as the backdrop, Lawrence and the Pistons have reunited for this limited-edition collaboration showcasing Detroit’s love for Martin, and Lawrence’s love for the city in which the TV hit took place. The line became available and it is exclusively on Pistons313shop.com.

Items in this collection include jerseys, hats, shorts, sweatshirts, T-shirts and more. From the well-known “Martin intro text to widely quoted lines and scenes from the show, this merchandise collection mixes the look and feel of the show with Detroit

See '90s VIBE Page B-2

“It’s really exciting to be able to offer a product on Target’s website,” she said. “Target is a brand that I have been a fan of for a long time.”

Currently the dolls are sold out on www. target.com but are still available (and in high demand) on https://healthyrootsdolls.com/.

Target announced recently its intention of spending over $2 billion with Black-owned businesses by the end of 2025, Black Enterprise reported. The company pledged to add more products to its shelves from over 500 Black-owned businesses and work with more Black retail companies to enhance retail operations and shopping experiences.

“We have a rich history of working with diverse businesses, but there’s more we can do to spark change across the retail industry, support the Black community and ensure Black guests feel welcomed and represented when they shop at Target,” Christina Hennington, executive vice president, and chief growth officer at Target said.

Jean-Charles said that her motivation in creating Zoe was an obvious one – she didn’t have a doll that looked like her growing up.

“My life’s purpose is to create representation I didn’t have as a child – my life’s purpose, my goal, is to liberate people and create a more

See HEALTHY ROOTS DOLLS Page B-2

was a high ylist Marv Neal provided by Detroit-based st oto the 1990s. Ph school student in Marv Neal

COVID Weight:

How the Pandemic Has Shaped Weight and Health

By Megan Kirk In March 2020, COVID-19 shifted normalcy and significantly changed everyday life for individuals across the globe. With various restrictions in places officials have, and continue to try, controlling the spread and infection level of the virus. After a year in lock down, the pandemic has affected weight and mental health in several ways. As cases in Michigan begin to ramp up, concerns of another shut down are looming.

Forcing millions of Americans across the country into isolation, COVID-19 tested patience, endurance and faith in medicine and the methods being used to mitigate the spread of the virus. For those who also suffered from a mental illness before the pandemic, isolation and disturbances in everyday life have aggravated matters.

Depression, along with stress, are some of the leading causes of weight gain. Both have severely impacted emotions throughout the pandemic. De-

spite being homebound, access to fast food through online ordering and delivery apps made for easier solutions for a family dinner. Economically, these food options may also have been more affordable.

For a community that is predisposed to the effects of weight gain, this was additional bad news.

“Before the plague of COVID, many of us were already struggling with diet as it relates to the management of multiple disease states such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and obesity which have ravaged our communities,” says Doniss Hicks, RD, RDN and Owner of Living4Wellness. “Unfortunately, these risk factors not only made us more susceptible to COVID, they exacerbated our inability to control our health and weight.”

As the pandemic continues to surge, there continues to be a high level of mistrust for the medical professionals and general fears of the unknown.

As fears of food shortages grew, access to healthy

See WEIGHT AND COVID Page B-2

Local designer, business owner and fashion guru Mira Williams-Estell wears the ‘90s proudly showcasing her fashion sense. Photo provided by Mira Williams-Estell

Page B-2 • michiganchronicle.com • June 2-8, 2021

Healthy Roots Dolls From page B-1

'90s Vibe From page B-1

fair and just society,” Jean-Charles said.

“Part of that means empowering young girls of color. If you have confidence in and of yourself you can do anything and not be impacted by society’s ideas they depict of people of color.”

According to data, 65 percent of the world’s population has curly/wavy hair.

In 2016, Dove did a study and found that only four out of 10 girls love their curls, according to healthyroots.com.

“Toys impact how we think, act and perceive ourselves. So, when girls can’t find dolls that look like them, it negatively impacts their self-esteem.”

That’s where Zoe comes in.

Zoe also went viral last year when Jean-Charles posted a side-by-side picture of herself labeled as “the founder” and another picture of Zoe labeled “the product.”

It’s easy to see why Zoe has a huge online following as her social media presence is on fire with cute captions accompanying Zoe’s wash day adventures or spa time or what her curlfriends (doll owners) are up to.

“I didn’t wanna go out, but my curls look too good to stay in,” said Zoe on one social media post.

­Pistons basketball.

“Detroit has always shown me so much love and always shows up for me,” said Lawrence. “From stand-up tours to fans on the street, Detroit has felt like home. It’s an honor to be part of something that means so much to me to this many years later.”

“With the city of Detroit as the show’s backdrop, “Martin” became must-watch TV in the ’90s,” said Mike Zavodsky, chief business officer of the Detroit Pistons. “Martin’s love for the Pistons in the show translated into a passion for the team – the fact that he has a ring from the 2004 team is proof of that.

We’re thrilled to partner with Martin to introduce a merchandise line that pays homage to both Martin and the show’s Detroit roots.”

From basketball to fashion, Detroit-based stylist Marv Neal, 40, can’t help but exude the 1990s.

Neal, who incorporates ‘90’s styling vibes to his clients and himself, said that as a high school student in the 1990s that decade was “very pivotal” for him.

Miles said that she purchased the doll for her daughter as an eighth birthday present.

“She absolutely loves it -- she loves being able to wash her hair,” Miles said, adding that her daughter loves having a doll that is reflective of who she sees in the mirror. “It is important because within our culture we’ve been programmed to not embrace our skin color, hair texture. … I make sure she knew the versatility of being a little Black girl learning to love who she is no matter.”

Jean-Charles said that for people interested in making their dreams come true, they should find a need and want, measure the problem and measure the impact.

“And figure out a way to solve it,” she said, adding that if it can’t be solved alone “find some people who can do it.”

She added that her viral social media presence is great, but her hard work is the force behind her success which she says is all about making a measurable impact and building something great people will love. Oh, and being your biggest champion.

“The best marketing is telling your own story,” she said.

“I was there for all of that it – it kind of seeped into my style because that’s the urban-ness we know,” Neal said, adding that he grew up watching MTV and BET after school. “I think the ‘90s was it. Man for those who missed it I feel bad.”

Neal added that he is happy about the Martin/Pistons collaboration and that this is proof the ‘90s are coming back.

“I was 12 when Martin came out,” he said, adding that collab “only makes sense.”

“I like that Detroit is getting the notoriety it should have always gotten,” he said.

Local designer, business owner and fashion guru Mira Williams-Estell told The Michigan Chronicle that for her the ‘90s trend is more than fashion and pop culture, but a whole vibe.

“To me, it is nostalgia -- it brings

COVID Weight

“Learning to love your curls from day one = priceless,” another post read.

One of Zoe’s curlfriends, Mikayla, 8, and her mother, Ebony Miles of Westland, are in love with the doll.

“It was the golden age of hip hop at its biggest point,” he said, adding that in the ‘90s there were a lot of different styles in Detroit that were big. This includes women wearing sculptured ponytail hairstyles and long nails to guys being dressed from head to toe in logomania and baggy jeans.

From page B-1 ­options diminished.

“As a result of fear and a lack of understanding about the disease and nutrition, businesses desperate to stay afloat exploited our communities with DoorDash, GrubHub and the proliferation of grocery delivery from nearly every food outlet -- all accessible by phone, text or email,” says Hicks.

While much is left unknown about the virus, the intersection of COVID and diet has been highly speculated upon since the start of the pandemic.

In the African American community, food is used as a form of expression and of love. However, most foods are not considered healthy. Adding on the pressures of the pandemic, food choices became less.

“For most African Americans, food is more about how it makes you feel after you take a bite rather than how this food is keeping you healthy,” says Hicks. “Food is about gathering with family and eating your favorite high calorie, sugary, starchy foods made by grandma. Instead, we sat alone eating a family sized bag of Lay’s potato chips and gained more weight than we desired.”

Weight gain is just one end of the spectrum. Individuals have experienced

weight loss as an effect of the pandemic. Depression caused by the pandemic and other life factors can cause a decrease in appetite. As COVID affects the sense of smell and taste, such a loss can result in a severe loss of appetite and cause rapid weight loss.

“For those who have had COVID and survived, some may experience a lack of taste and smell which dulls the appetite and leads to weight loss,” says Hicks.

back so much for me that gives me life,” she said. “It’s something that I always keep with me so the trend is cool.”

Williams-Estell said that she, too, is a huge “Martin” fan who can quote something from the show at least once a day.

“Growing up in the ‘90s for me was the bomb,” she said. “To be able to relive those times, so to speak, whether it’s in my style of dress, the music we listened to or enjoying TV shows and movies gives me life.”

Decades later she still moves with the best of them while rocking her jean jackets and keeping her “nails did.”

“I love a nice blazer, high wasted jeans and a chic brim hat with a chunky heel,” she said, adding that a little ‘90s flair can go a long way. “I think having a sense of humor and confidence is all you need, combined with a fab outfit nothing can top that. Confidence is like a little black dress -- it’s timeless and effortless.”

She added that a little throwback never hurt nobody.

“It goes to show no matter how far we go in the decades, when there’s a time and space that you remember and love the most it never goes away,” she said.

Voice of Voice the of the Community Community atyour your atfingertips

fingertips.

To help combat the effects of the pandemic and its effect on weight loss and gain, educating the masses on food and how it benefits the body will be beneficial.

“Education is needed to instill within the masses that food can be both delicious and healthy and affordable for all. A proper balanced diet consisting of plant-based foods, with less starch, sugar and salt is the key to reducing incidences of diabetes, obesity and heart disease. We can prepare Soul Food, but with less sugar and fat. Instead, unhealthy food was our crutch during those [days],” says Hicks.

With no end in sight, the pandemic has surpassed the one-year mark and remains just as elusive as the first day it entered the scene. However, with intention and improved food choices, the pounds and the pandemic will be a thing of the past.

OUR BEST HOPE IS THE COVID-19 VACCINE. See how to get yours.

The COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective. It will save lives and help Michigan move forward. Protect us all, by getting your dose of hope.

Learn more at Michigan.gov/COVIDvaccine or call the COVID-19 Hotline at (888) 535-6136 and press 1.

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June 2-8, 2021 • michiganchronicle.com •

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Page B-4 • michiganchronicle.com • June 2-8, 2021

Classifieds

June 2-8, 2021 • michiganchronicle.com • Page B-5

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Hope Academy,

LEGAL NOTICE

a public charter school, will hold its Budget Hearing on Tuesday, June 8, 2021 at 5:30 p.m. via Zoom.

The Zoom information will be published on the school’s website on Monday, June 7, 2021 at www.hopeacad.org. The budget will be available for public inspection at Hope Academy, 12121 Broadstreet, Detroit, MI 48204.

Notice of Public Hearing Academy of Warren will hold a public hearing June 15, 2021 at 5:30 pm at 13943 East 8 Mile Road, Warren, MI 48089, (586) 552-8010 to review the proposed 2021-2022 operating budget. A copy of the proposed budget is available for public inspection at the above address.

COVENANT HOUSE ACADEMY DETROIT 1450 25th Street Detroit, Michigan 48216 NOTICE IS hereby given that the Covenant House Academy Detroit Board of Directors will hold its Annual Budget Hearing on Tuesday, June 8, 2021 at 12:30 p.m. The Budget will be available for public inspection via Zoom Video conferencing. The meeting will be conducted in accordance with the Michigan Open Meetings Act.

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When left at home alone, pets can exhibit behaviors that could indicate they’re experiencing separation anxiety. It’s not a new problem, but it can become more pronounced as pet parents begin to spend less time at home, whether they’re returning to work full-time or just leaving the house more often.

It may be especially challenging for pets that found their forever homes during the pandemic, as being alone may be a stark contrast to what they’ve become accustomed to. In these cases, pets may struggle to learn how to cope with being by themselves.

To help pet parents identify separation anxiety in their pets and embrace alone time, consider these tips from Dr. Crista Coppola, PetSmart’s consulting animal behaviorist and separation anxiety expert.

How to Identify Separation Anxiety

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How to Help Manage Pet Separation Anxiety (Family Features) For more than a year, working from home and keeping social circles small due to COVID-19 has meant people have been able to spend more time with their pets. However, as more Americans are vaccinated and restrictions loosen across the country, it’s likely many are spending less time at home with their pets. As a result, pet parents should be prepared to spot the signs of separation anxiety and help their pets manage.

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Changes in behavior are some of the most common indicators of separation anxiety. These behaviors are coping mechanisms and can include excessive barking or whining, destruction near exit points or windows, having accidents around the house, hyper salivating, pacing, decreased appetite and depression. To better understand what your pet is experiencing, consider setting up a video camera when you leave to see how he or she behaves when you’re not there.

Ways to Prepare Your Pet for Separation

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Unpredictability has been shown to add stress for many animals, including dogs, Coppola said. Routines, however, can help many pets cope with stressful situations. Because a vacation or long weekend getaway involves a change in your pet’s routine, these seemingly small changes can make him or her susceptible to separation anxiety. If you know change is coming, slowly introduce your pet to the idea of being alone beforehand to help your four-legged friend prepare. Start by taking short trips outside your home without your pet – even if just for a few minutes – and consider leaving treats or toys to help make the alone time more enjoyable.

When you are ready to leave the house, set up a cozy, inviting space for your

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physically engaging your pet by going for a walk or run, or working on quick trick training, can make it more likely he or she spends at least some of the time you’re gone resting.

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While you’re gone, Coppola recommends providing your pets with enrichment activities such as puzzles, chews and calming aids like the Adaptil Calm On-the-Go Dog Collar. Calming vests like the veterinarian-recommended Thundershirt can also help pets transition.

Solutions for Coping with Anxiety

If your pet is excessively barking or exhibiting destructive behaviors, never punish him or her and avoid expressing disappointment or frustration, Coppola It is understandable to feel this way, but it can upset your pet further and METROPARKS.COM/HIRINGsaid. add to the stress he or she may already be feeling. Instead, spend time having fun together when you are home and consider an option like PetSmart’s Doggie Day Camp, which can help ease the transition by gradually introducing your pet to the amount of time left alone. Available at more than 200 locations in full- or half-day sessions – including themed playdates – your furry friend will receive expert care, exercise, mentally stimulating playtime and socialization with other pups.

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5 Tips to Spring Clean Your Home Inside and Out

(Family Features) Spring cleaning isn’t just about 2col. purgingx dirt and grime. It’s also 4.75 the perfect opportunity to take inventory of items around your home. As you tackle this season’s cleaning, look for ways to improve your overall living space, from getting rid of things you no longer need to adding items that can work harder for you.

Consider these five ways to tackle your home inside and out this spring.

Make organizing easier. As you clean each space, look for easy ways to reduce unsightly messes and improve organization. If your entryway always becomes a jumbled pile of shoes and coats, consider adding a storage bench and hooks to bring some order to the area. If the kids’ toys always accumulate in the living room, add a storage chest or large baskets to store them when not in use. If tools and equipment make the garage unusable, install shelving units to keep everything in place.

Eliminate the excess. Spring cleaning is also an opportunity to declutter and make way for something new, either by donating or selling unused things. Whether it’s last season’s fashion and accessories or unused tech and fitness gear, that item you never used – or haven’t used in a while – may be exactly what someone else is looking for. Online platforms can make the

process easy and be a way to earn extra cash or help fund other home upgrades.

Look for marketplaces that help you maximize your return; eBay, for example, is giving sellers 200 free listings every month, meaning you only pay after your items sell.

Reimagine your living space. If one area is becoming too crowded or doesn’t

serve your family’s needs, consider items you can repurpose for another part of the home. For example, move an unused chair in your living room into a bedroom to create a reading nook. Keep your focus on function as you make changes that accommodate your lifestyle.

shopping list can expand your options and make it easier to purchase top-of-the-line brands without going over budget. From tech and small kitchen appliances to outdoor power equipment, you can discover a breadth of items often in like-new condition.

Make smart additions. Once you’ve cleared your space, and sold things you no longer need, you can convert that extra cash into reliable home appliances and tech. For example, purchase or upgrade items like vacuums, lawn mowers, power washers, drills and more to help take your spring cleaning to the next level. You can make your money go further by choosing certified refurbished products; some marketplaces like eBay offer inventory that has been professionally inspected by the manufacturer, or a manufacturer-approved vendor, to look, feel and work like new.

Shop for Multi-Purpose Items: When upgrading your arsenal of gadgets, tools and small appliances, look for items that can serve multiple purposes. For example, many vacuums can transform into steamers or include mop attachments and some pressure cookers can also be used as air fryers.

Commit to revisiting regularly. It’s easy to let clutter and disorganization slide when you get busy with life’s demands.

Once your spring cleaning and reorganizing is complete, commit to reassessing your home on a monthly or quarterly basis so you can make small adjustments along the way, rather than face a major project every year.

Shop Smarter Considering refurbished products for your

Feel Confident in Your Purchase: Sometimes upgrading means investing in a premium product you can count on to last longer than entry-level models. With eBay’s Certified Refurbished program, you can find popular, professionally inspected name brands at up to 50% off, all of which are backed by industry-leading two-year warranties for peace of mind.

Keep Sustainability in Mind: Keeping functionality in mind and buying like-new items not only saves you money now and in the future but can also help protect the planet by extending the life of products and reducing unnecessary waste.

Learn more about buying refurbished at eBay.com/CertifiedRefurbishedHub.

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