MI Chronicle Vol. 90 No. 1

Is Detroit’s $400 Million Investment in Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Accessible for Black Detroiters?

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Future of Wright C

Comerica Celebrates New Generation O of M Black E R Tennis I C A Stars 35 Years of Supporting ,

HOMEFRONT Detroit Historical museums could be determined by November millage

the Nation’s Largest City.Life.Style. B1 UNCF Walk for Education Scholarship Roots. A3 Fundraiser

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Vol. 87 – No. 2 | September 13-19, 2023

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All Black Everything:

Vol. 90 87 –– No. September2-8, 20-26, 2023 Vol. No. 3 1 || September 2026

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ICEUAW Already Triple A NightStrike of Elegance Shocks America - and Excellence at the 10th Annual Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40 Against Detroit Gloves Can’t Hide Automakers Their Fingerprints!

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER By Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony NAACP – DETROIT CHAPTER PRESIDENT

Late Thursday night, Sept. Department of Homeland 14,The a historic moment unfolded Security (DHS) announcement that itaswould in American labor relations spend $20 million to equip ICE (Immithe United Auto Workers (UAW) gration and Customs Enforcement) union initiated a strike against with electric shock gloves is (GM), indeed and shocking. Ford, General Motors Equipping Stellantis. ICE Forwith theelectric first shock time,gloves is to equipping a wolf with thetantamount union took simultaneous a knife andDe-fork to action against all three major enterThe theaction hen house. troit-based automakers. The only involves approximately 13,000 thing missing plants is a white UAW members in assembly napkin wipe his across Michigan, Ohio, andtoMismouth after comsouri, who walked off their jobs troiters. The symbolism of Black beekeepers revitalizing niably commendable. By Ebony JJ Curry after existing laborpleting contractshisex- meal. their city is a powerful testament to the resilience and Amidst the glitz and glamour, the event also showSENIOR REPORTER pired at 11:59 p.m. The wolf has proven ingenuity of our community. cased the diversity of talent within our community. From he will Shortly before that midnight on bite,talent, determinaAs the night unfolded, we had the privilege of hon- Paris T. Prichard, a forensic scientist pushing the boundn a breathtaking celebration tear, rip, and of kill PHOTO: EmmaLaster, Lockridge Sept. 14, GM released a statement oring other outstanding individuals, each carving their aries of her field, to math wizards like Donna who tion, and the his unyielding spirit of Black excellence, prey with with a feexpressing disappointment own path to success. Clement “Fame” Brown, the crethe Michigan rocious Chronicleefficiency. marked its 10th Annual the strike action,40despite offering Rev. Dr. 40 Wendell Under eventhas Thursday This year’s ative mind behind Three Thirteen Detroit’s Brand Name, See 40 UNDER 40 page A2 ICE shown evening. no what it termed an “unprecedented received the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Anthony soirée, drenched in accountability the theme “All Black Everything with for economic package” that included GoldofAccents,” transcended expectations and essential- Brown’s commitment to empowering the city through any itswage lethalincreases. actions. They are already historic Stellantis ly illuminated the golden gems within the true essence fashion and entrepreneurship has left an indelible mark. well equipped and armed to the teeth. of Black excellence. Hosted by the charismatic duo of “Entrepreneur of the year – that’s a big deal,” said These masked wearing, plain clothes, unAndre Ash and Lynzee Mychael from Michigan ChroniBrown. “It’s always an honor to be honored and it’s marked car driving agents of terror are cle’s Finally Friday, was a triumph for the city always a blessing to be in a room full of so many talentcurrently armed withthe the night following: ofthat the look exposure families face now, said. of Detroit and its vibrant community of young By Black pro- JJed, accomplished, and popularsome people like me. Ebony Curry ■ Nine-millimeter semi-automatic theyselling do notclothes resolveasthe larger question of fessionals. I’m geeked. I started making and a kid She said building a broad coalition SENIOR REPORTER handguns, specialized Sauer P320 and how much additional pollution Michigan around those experiences, backed by data, and I always knew that I would have a business, but I The evening sparkled with a golden promise as we the GlockP19, long guns, rifles and should allow in communities already never knew it would Detroit’s brand name business, critical. New Jersey to confront a celebrated individuals walksCollins DPDcarChiefwas James White Sayshad Increased has buried nearlybe her shotguns, remarkable M4 carbines/assault rifles,from variousJoyce rying so much. so Ifamily. take a lot of pride in the fact that our business rephistory in which policy repeatedly allowed ofRemington life. Among the honorees were the brilliant and vientire immediate 870 shotguns (for highPresence Culledto Violence resents our city’s pride.” In Southwest Detroit, the pollution Police sur- polluting industries concentrate in the sionary co-founders of Detroit Hives, Nicole Lindsey Her and father died in 1992 after cancer risk operations) families doeswas not come from one same places, Ruiz said. Timothy Paul Jackson. Their work has not only changed Taking Corporate Excellence Award spread to his bones. Her home oldest the sister was rounding ■ Specialized tactical firearms including By Andre source. ButEngagement Michigan’s permitting system Ash “Undoing decades of policy that worked the landscape of beekeeping and urban farming in De- with Dannis Mitchell, Director of Community at diagnosed lung cancer, later develmachine guns such as the SIG MPX DIGITAL largely still looks at it that way. ness district that had been the lifeblood ofANCHOR towards mendingfavor the wounds inflicted on troit but also exemplified the transformative impact Barton Malow. in polluters’ and treated overburBy Ebony JJ Curry oped breast and brain cancer, and died in also expressed disappointment in ■ Conducted energy devices (tasers) Black Detroiters and restoring a sense of bethe community. Black professionals can have on their communities. A refinery may be reviewed under one dened communities as dumping grounds “It is so important to recognize that there are young SENIOR2013. REPORTER Another sister died from pancreata statement, saying the company Aanother stringlonging of ■ C“Together hemical munitions, pepper spray thatopportunity wasinso callously torn away in Industrial dust falls underinjusandshootings an for industry required It’spermit. a that history marred we have created a social, environmental, leaders across thedied country, are born hereby in pain, ic cancer in 2007. Her mother from many immediately went into contingenGreektown in mid-April left (OC spray), teargas canisters the past. set of rules. Truck emissions are dealt with years of persistent activism from residents, For many Detroiters, Interstate 375, or tice,nationally and economic and financial impact through bees,” said Jackson. Detroit. and I devastation. tell people, More than colonLindcancer in 2020. I represent our city cy mode to protect its operations. both visitors residents elsewhere. Noof one fully weighs all of and advocates andof policymakers,” Ruiz said. Body armorthat designed to stopwith, hand■ I-375, has long been‘Yea just53-year-old another stretch of from The I-375 Boulevard Project is about more sey followed sentiment “It is through our local 130,000 residents, primarily Black,what were I’m a D-girl I’m the west-side Detroit,’” Now Collins’ nephew has The UAW has branded the inthis bustling downtown des- historical injustices; it’s those sources add up to in a community guns and rifle caliber rounds efforts urban highway, a concrete artery connectthan just correcting partnerships and collaborative that we exist in Mitchell expressed. “But more importantly, I’ve been able forcibly displaced. Families were uprooted, “Momentum grew in New Jersey beprostate cancer. dustrial action as the “Stand-Up tination inabout awe. One of these already wealth carrying a heavy ing different parts oftothe city. To some, it’s redefining the future. It will connect over plus and locations managing the health of 4.5 milhave experiences withingenerational an industry that not many of environmental was obliterated, and a cause the conversation never lost sight Gas28 masks, riot gear ■ Strike,” focusing on specific plants Collins, 67, to grew up around Southwest shootings tragically Detroit claimedto surrounding neighbor-of burden. mere convenience; it’s an unre- of thriving lion –function humblywith speaking oura movement has us, others, specifically women color, have the opportunity community was torntoasunder. The downtown the humanity environmental jusIf honeybees ICEeach cannot this arwithin automaker. UAW Detroit’s 48217 ZIP code, a predominantly the life of a popular and the be-behind markable part of their daily in commute. Howhoods, bridging gap that was placed upon inspired others locally, nationally, and even internationengage and I’ve been the youngest person in the room, wounds inflicted by I-375 run deep, tranNew Jersey faced the same fight and tice.” senal of autocracy, shame on them. Our President Shawn Fain stated, “This Black and Latino far community surrounded loved security guard followa deeper, decades ago. allydollars to takeare on similar missions.” the onlymore Blacktroubling person in the room, andphysical the onlybarrier Sistahsystem. ina freeway to the cityNew changed its permitting scending the of tax going equip a special ever, there’s strategy will keep thetocompanies by somethe of surface Southeast Michigan’s heaviest ing a dispute with a Jersey patron.state Sen. Troy Singleton, a story beneath of this seemingly the room, and I really had to articulate the importance penetrate the very soul of Black Detroiters. Today, the resurgence Paradise Valley Detroit Hives, a pioneering organization founded by Now, regulators must consider what a Democrat and of the law, masked to no one guessing.militia It willaccountable give our nationindustry. The story Marathon Petroleum refinThe male suspect allegedlyprimaryofauthor ordinary freeway—a of pain, of showing up,displacegiving chances when others won’t, stands as a testament to the indomitable Lindsey and Jackson, harnesses the power of urban bee- there. community is already carrying before alsaid the issue belongs inside the broader other than Stephen Miller and President This painful legacy can and be traced back al negotiators maximum leverage ery operates Nearby River Rouge and shot the guard before fleeing and theCity. lastingbeing impactpersistent.” on Black DetroiAs a trailblazing Black woman thrivofhis Black Detroitersabout and the enduring keeping to revitalize neighborhoods in ment, the Motor certain facilities to open or expand national conversation racial and ecoDonald Trump. have proven to thelowing nation’s interstate highway program and flexibility inThey bargaining. And that Ecorse are also home to heavy industry. the scene, spirit while female ters. ing in a predominantly male-dominated industry, her legacy of Black excellence. This historic disTheir initiative not only addresses critical issues like there. In overburdened neighborhoods, nomic inequality. they cannot be trusted. They will lie and of 1956—a program that aimed to connect if we need to go all out, we will. Families live among refineries, industrial companion is accused of conunwavering to country fortifying connections Thefacilities tale begins what freight is nowcommitment Lafayette with once vibrant hub for Black businessenvironmental but valuable that gives the state to require deceive as revealed various fatalalso inci-provides DPDwhere Chief James White the butthe often didmore so atpower the expense Everything is onconservation theintable.” Union andinmajor corridors “For far too long, someone lives cealing the trict, weapon in aher bra. between businesses and Detroit’s communities is undePark,toonce known Black Bottom—a neighes and experiencing renaissance education andalso employment opportunities Black De- as stronger protections andInlimit additional dents. of marginalized communities. the case of incidents leaders have indicated that heavy truck traffic. has culture, toounfolded oftenisdetermined theaunseasonably quality of the These during an in African-American culture I-375,pollution. thatair harkens back tothe its water glory days. The deadditional plants could targetit meant carving a path through the theytobreathe, they drink and Too often we hear thebeline, “They re- borhood rooted For Named decades,after residents have asked warm spring, leading pedestrian traffic and and history. its dark, fertilewhat struction of increased Black Bottom maytheir have torn ed in future if negotiations heart ofOther Black states Detroit, reinforcing the environment they raise families have followedsegregasuit: New sisted arrest waves and they tried to mow me all of that pollution is doing to their health. heightenedapart tensions in the densely populated downtown soil, Black Bottom flourished during the mid- tion, York but the resolute remainwith stalled. in,”a thriving Singletoncommunity, said. inequality. and Minnesota have both down their car.” area.passeddetermination Womenthe anddreams girls across generations are and perpetuating 1900s, nurturing and aspirations of a new generation of entrerobust statutes that block or heavily reFain clarified theand union’s strat“This and is not an visitors environmental Both eyewitness citizen cameras of prominent pushing for an answer. CollinsYoung, still shows For one to aptly recognize the harm The surge in crime the simply influxisof DeDetroiters like Coleman and visionaries reclaimingtothat strict newprojects, permits it if is they add to the pollu-preneurs egy: “Idisproven want to give major shoutissue,” he said. “It isattention a matterofofthepublic caused by such vital to note that have theira lies. They have not Joe Louis, up to meetings, troit’s downtown core garnered the Deandneighborhood numerous other Detroit stays leg- enlegacy. load in already commu-losthealth, out to the thousands fairness, andsomewhat social jusimplemented the use of of members bodycams for ends. But sometion of the planners anddisadvantaged politicianstroit behind gaged about pollution Police Departmenteconomic (DPD), catching them in in theconversations name of urban renewal in and In the heart of Paradise Valley, Blacknities. Additionally, states like Colorado, who are on the picket lines right tice.” their agents. This past July, they commit- the 1950s, those projects built them directly through speaks openly aboutneighborhood what familieswas have enoff guard. this vibrant businesses are not just flourishing Housing Resource Helpline in communiConnecticut and Massachusetts have suc-ownedSingleton now fighting for to allprocure of us. equipment The ted million By $30.9 Andre Ash the heart of vibrant, populated dured. She has become one offrom the residents saidforthe racial-jussystematically dismantled, erased the response James White, Chief ofoffering Police thenational Detroit Police Debut thriving, diverse services, prodcessfully codified frameworks that manto the challenges that Stand-Up Strike is a new approach from Axiom. Only after a determined map, and ties—oftentimes to reinforce segregation and DIGITAL ANCHOR pushing for greater attention to the health tice protests that followed George Floyd’s replaced by a lifeless stretch of as- residents partment, said: “We were caught somewhat flat-footed ucts, and experiences that pay homage to the dateface cumulative and environmental in navigating the to striking. Instead of striking all public outcry over the fatal murders of phalt. and environmental burden surrounding sometimes as part of ahealth direct effort toright replace murder in 2020 we helped create momentum out the Bypaving design wentfor into the spring pastgate. while the way a prosperous assessments operations complex system of before housingindustrial serplants atRay once, selectcontinues locals will be Ruben Martinez in Texas, or eliminate Black neighborhoods. their neighborhoods. At the same time, for legislation that advocates had spent Homelessness to Renee deployment, which is less than the mid-summer deployWhile the residential areas bore the brunt From jazz clubs to soul food restaucan nearprovides vulnerable vices. Theexpand helpline a populations. future. called to stand up and walk out Nicole Good and Alex Pretti inwith Minnesoyoung people like 12-year-old Nala Hill are years building. plagueon urban communities, But now, after decades of enduring the ment, and saw we say an uptick in violence that first the heart of Black Bottom, single point of Jersey contact for Senate peopleMajority Leaderrants, the Black Press, and art galleries to on strike.and This is ourAraujo generation’s state ta, Lorenzo Salgado in Houston, of this demolition, beingbusiness trained center, to advocate for cleaner air. scars of New families individuals grappling months Phil I-375, there is a glimmer of hope warm weekend.” its thriving remained largely fashionThree boutiques, this after revivalthen-Gov. is breathing seeking housing assistance and answer to the movement that built M. Teresa Ruiz, a Democrat co-sponsor and Guerrero in withJohan the Sebastian challengesDuran of making Detroit is working to control industrial Murphy, also a Democrat, publicly backed on the horizon. Plans have been and unveiled to White untouched. Restaurants, theaters, clubs, and Chief attributes the violence in Greektown to life into the very essence of what once made connects thembill, with thethe resources our sit-down strikescliof said environmental justice the legislation on Juneteenth 2020, New Maine did –they relent. endsunion meet inthe today’s economic truck traffic andthat airborne dust, the state transform is of thethis once-divisive freewaya combination into a this of bars—the very places brought Detroit’s weather conditions and a surge in popneighborhood a vibrant cultural epicen1937. We told the Big 3 that Sept. they need. law took years to pass. In combining ICE struggling with Customs mate. Whether it’s to and Black funding air-quality improvements the law. vision that seeks to right the wrongsulation. of the ter.Jersey community together—were concen-inside It’s aenacted resurgence that extends beyond 14 was the deadline and meant Support for the bill helpline comes “As this gained traction, communiBorders Protection, at we least 41 total trated around meet monthly mortgage payments residents’ homes, and community organizapast while heralding a new era of inclusivity Its implementing rules took effect Hastings Street, the epicenter brick and mortar; it represents thethat resurHe explained, “ We saw numbers downtown wein it. gave companies our eco- have from the Gilbert Family Founda- to share deeply 2023. ty members came together shootings bythe immigration officials or We coping with soaring rental costs tions are monitoring and training and community revitalization. of African-American culturepollution in the city. genceever. of a spirit that refuses to be subdued. have not seen, People are emerging from COVID nomic demands eight weeks ago personal living with which has stories pledged of $10children milbeen recorded market since January rein a housing marked 2025, by young advocate for Hastings cleaner air.tion,Fueled by more than $100 million from New that Jersey’s rules require appliThen, in apeople cruel to twist of fate, feeling we’re in a now post-COVID era… and it took thanBetween a month to City Councilman Fred Durhal asthma families unable enjoythere’s their a Detroit lion over threeand years to fund the to and sulting in 11more deaths. 10-20 inshockingly high prices, a variety On top of those efforts, key women in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act the cants for certain facilities in overburdened Street, too, was obliterated a few years later, and with venues downtown and the reasons to come get to the table.” III, representing District 7, where Eastern ownWayne backyards because of pollution,” Ruiz dividuals annually custody. program. Metro Commuof factors die contribute to in theICE growstate government are also pressand other partners, this ambitious down project wayand for local the Julie construction of I-375. withMarket all the resides, activities that going on, we saw told theare Michigan Chronicle, union isImmigrations pushing for aCouncil comThe American has making Dunn Schneider nity Action Agency manages the ingThe issue of people becoming un- Meagan ing forthe policy to address thethe cumulative aims to create jobs, remove barriers to eco- of This marked final blow, sealing fate hundreds more people and,inin particularly, young “It’s still very early the process, MDOT is prehensive list of demands. This helpline, making it accessible to housed. See ICE Page A-2 See MOST POLLUTED ZIP CODE: 48217 Page A-2 pollution. While currentthe efforts can reduce nomic growth, and reconnect the neighborof Black Bottom and signaling beginning folks, teenagers that we hadn’t seen.” all Detroit residents. This initiative simplifies access to the See INVESTMENT Page A-2 Historically, shelterspage have provided a temporary respite of the end for Paradise Valley, the Black busi- hood with the rest of Detroit. It is a Responding step See UAW STRIKE A2 swiftly to the surge in violence, DPD for those in need, often serving as the first or second option City’s various housing services, ensuring that residents in adjusted its deployment plans. Rather than waiting for after exhausting alternatives like staying with friends or need can easily find assistance. mid-summer, they deployed officers in the spring itself family. Shelters offer a place to rest one’s head and a warm “The city and its partners offer a lot of great services to address the situation. meal, albeit sometimes for extended periods. For others, to help Detroiters with their housing needs, but they don’t The rise in visitors to the Greektown area is evident being unhoused means living in cars or makeshift outdoor mean much if people don’t know how to access them,” said in data from a location givingPlacer.ai, this amazing event!” analytics company By Sam Robinson settings. Mayor Mike Duggan. “Thanks to the efforts of our partners because of discrimination, butthemthey specializing in visit trends and demographic insights Lynzee Mychael Detroit rappers have for years involved SENIOR REPORTER The causes of homelessness By are as diverse and complex and the generous support of the Gilbert Family Foundation, were also coming because Black through geolocation-enabled mobile devices. From selves in local and national political campaigns. MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST now have a simple process to guide residents to the right as the individuals experiencing it. Michigan’s In response,Democratic the City ofandwe people doing some stuff. When Republican candiMay 1-Aug. 27,spoke 2022,ahead thereofwas were 1.3 million visits andat James President Donald Trump housing resource and a growing number of programs to Detroit has adopted a holistic approach to combat this issue. did Black people starttoSewell’s doing things dates forthe governor both vying for votes from 655,000 an visitors to Greektown, according Placer.ai. From days ofare the Great Mievent in 2024 at Pastor Lorenzo 180 help them.” “Providing services and high-quality housing to persons inyear, the these city? They and started Black Detroiters ahead of the general election on In the same periodwhere this numbers increased to gration when thousands of Black Church, Vezzo, Sada Baby Peezy doing were The Gilbert Family Foundation’s broader commitment at risk who Stay are experiencing is a key this area in the 1800’s. PayofAsorYou Nov.homelessness 3. flocked to Detroit 1.4 million visits and things 670,000invisitors. families in search also in attendance. pledging $500 million to support projects across priority of the City of Detroit, said Julie Schneider, In the 1800’s the major thing that of jobs and ahas better life, to number theinvolves piv- of registered Detroit the Director largest As Detroit’s downtown continues to attract Vezzo spoke in area support of Detroit Mayorboth Mary as Detroit Detroit over the next ten years, with housing initiatives of Returns Detroit’s Housing and Revitalization Department. they were doing in Detroit is they otal roleof they in the in city’s voters any played municipality Michigan. With residentsSheffield and visitors, theher police department has impleduring mayoral race against Pastor being a significant part of their contribution. Homeowners Face were the leaders in the fight against “This means focusing on building theand pipeline of supcultural musical heritage,voters, it’s the approximately 527,000 registered mented various enforcement measures to manage inSolomon Kinloch. Peezy and Vezzo werethe among slavery. metal The Underground Railroad Notably, portive housing and coordinating with the Continuum of an Detroiters have left inmost significant voting bloc in the state. Detroit has witnessed a consistent decrease in creased population. Notably, detectors have been November Deadline for Black a group of entertainers invited by Detroit Mayor is the rootGreektown in the city of deter Detroit recent years,turned with the number of unhoused residents steadiCare What on the a delivery of critical resources such as the emergency delible on city.Rep. However, strategically placed throughout theto Federal GOPmark nominee U.S. John James Mary Sheffield earlier this year for to a roundtable Property Reliefand diversion all of this Black innovation that you lyrapper declining. In 2019, approximately 7,847 people were unshelter, rapid Tax rehousing, and prevention proinheads recent years, Detroit has at expeillegal carrying of firearms. after he spoke on stage 42 Dugg’s discussion about the state of the city’s arts and Government Shutdown see coming later.” housed grams. It also means preserving affordable rienced significant gentrification, ‘4and theexpanding Trenches’ Tour on Friday, Aug.and 20, entered at the the City’s community response system. “We have strategically culture industry. placed them at key points, “ In 2021, about 5,687 people experienced homelessness. housing options for Detroiters of all incomes and improving Could Mean which has raised concerns about like some, Aretha Aretha Franklin Amphitheater. explains. It Musical has been alegends deterrent visited Sewell’s church onfor the city’s remarks at the concert Friday. It’s not clearChief why WhiteJames housing stability though comprehensive service of offerings the displacement long-standing Franklin, Marvin Gaye, and the According to the City of Detroit, since the start of the and some have tested it. If you are legally carrying a for Detroiters? James thanked the rappers who invited him the video was deleted. However, it contained westside last month, weeks before the controveravailable through the Detroit Housing Resource HelpLine Black residents. Similar to a setting Motown sound emerged from Defiscal year 2019 to 2021, Detroit saw a 28% decrease in the weapon and carrying a CPL, have a great day. If you’re on stage before declaring he wasn’t there for pol- audio of 42 Dugg’s “We Not Done,” and what sial pastor hosted racist agitator Jake Lang ahead apand Detroit Housing Services Division within HRD.” sun, there’s a rising spirit, and Black troit, providing a soundtrack for the itics. of his anti-Muslim rally in Dearborn. pears to be crowd noisepage rippedA2 from this “Cheer- See See COMBAT HOMELESSNESS POLICE PRESENCE Page A-2 Detroiters are reclaiming their place civil rights movement and inspirIn May 2023, the City of Detroit launched the Detroit “It’s not about the parties, both parties have ing Crowd Sound Effect” video on YouTube. “Thank you Pastor LorenzoMotown Sewell for invitin the city, despite the challenges ing generations. Records, failed,” said. “It’s about what’s best for us you atby180 Church Later in the weekend, James was pictured ing me to join posed by James gentrification. founded Berry Gordyin Jr.,Detroit,” was not and for our future. I was raised in ­Detroit. I went withOver James said injust a post to social had of a time, theserapper, another Detroit forphase long Icewear after ourVezzo, current of gena record labelmedia. but a “We symbol During the Great Migration, and west sides. to West Point. I flew Apaches in combat, and I a backpack great discussion about the importance of elecneighborhoods became centers of giveaway at O’Brien Park on 6 Mile. trification. Black excellence and empowerment. thousands of Black families from came back to grow jobs in Detroit. I’m running tionto integrity, serving our communities, and the entrepreneurship. was a great day in“Black Detroit, withwere hun-coming people Dethe South came to Detroit in search Black culture and“Today However, as Detroit faced ecoto serve you so that we can have more access to future of Michigan. These conversations matter. According dreds to Historian Jamon members of community preparing troit because Black for churches were nomic decline of jobs in the booming automobile and population loss capital in the city, more contracts in the city, and They strengthen our movement and remind us Jordon Black resilience in the city back-to-school tomorrow!” James said in a post. here, black schools were here, and industry. Despite facing discriminain the late 20th century, many more access to a better future in the city.”roots that“Thank extend far before the Up you toto Detroits own Icewear Vezzzo forDaily its was BlackDigital businesses here,” said the QR Code Sign for the Newsletter tion and segregation, they built vi- hasScan See BLACK VOTERS Page A-2 $2.00 James posted and thencity’s deleted his Greatof Migration and will persist Jordon. “They were coming of course brant communities on the easta video See LEGACY page A2 $1.00

I

Black Detroiters Are Still Dying in Michigan’s

Had 1.4 Million Most Polluted ZIPGreektown Code: 48217 Visits This Summer and No Shootings Can Reparative Investment Finally Heal the Wounds Left by I-375?

All Hands On Deck to Combat Homelessness A Holistic Approach to Providing Shelter and Support for Detroit’s Unhoused People

WHAT’S INSIDE WHAT’S INSIDE

Governor Candidates Benson, James Target Black Voters in Detroit Black Resilience Amidst Gentrification: Reclaiming Detroit’s Legacy

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JOHN H. SENGSTACKE Chairman-Emeritus 1912-1997

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CONTACT US 1452 Randolph • Detroit, MI 48226 • (313) 963-8100 • e-mail: newsdesk@michronicle.com

Most Polluted ZIP Code: 48217 From page A-1

communities to examine existing environmental and public-health stressors. The state can require additional pollution controls and community protections, and new facilities that would create disproportionate impacts face stricter barriers. Ruiz said the law is already changing what facilities must do before receiving permits. “Other states like Michigan can learn from New Jersey’s approach that while strong laws provide an important framework for protecting communities, their effectiveness depends on timely implementation and on sustained vigilance, advocacy, and partnership to ensure that new protections are upheld.” Democratic state Sen. Stephanie Chang has spent years pushing for state policy aimed at reducing the pollution burden in Southwest Detroit and other heavily industrialized communities. She pointed to 48217, the Marathon refinery and the cluster of other industrial facilities in and around Southwest Detroit as a public health concern, particularly for residents with asthma, COPD and other respiratory illnesses. Marathon Petroleum did not respond to The 19th’s request for comment. But Chang said getting legislation through Lansing has been difficult. “We have bills that we’ve pushed forward that unfortunately have not made a lot of progress,” she told The 19th. One of them is the Protecting Overburdened Communities Act, or POCA, which Chang and state Rep. Donavan McKinney, a fellow Detroit Democrat, introduced in 2025, drawing from New Jersey’s approach. The legislation would require the state to consider cumulative environmental impacts when reviewing certain permits in overburdened communities. McKinney, now the Democratic nominee for Michigan’s 13th Congressional District, would represent 48217 in Congress if he wins the November general election. Opponents argue that the legislation would lead to administrative backlogs. Industry groups warn that restricting development in industrialized zones will stifle economic growth, causing businesses to relocate to states with more favorable regulations. For Chang, the proposed legislation means regulators would have to look beyond what a single facility is proposing and consider what residents are already exposed to from the industries around them. “When you look at areas like 48217 or other areas like on the east side, it’s important to consider the cumulative impact between multiple sources and also between multiple types of pollutants,” Chang said. She also worked on legislation that would have created a state air quality enforcement and mitigation fund. Instead of pollution fines simply going to the state, Chang said the goal was “to redirect those fines back to impacted communities.” That bill made it further but died on the House floor. From inside state government, Regina Strong sees why residents can become frustrated when another permit moves forward in a community already surrounded by pollution. Strong is Michigan’s first environmental justice public advocate and heads the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) office charged with elevating environmental justice concerns. She said state regulators are still limited by existing laws. They can monitor pollution, use environmental justice screening tools and require protections where existing rules allow them. But they cannot independently create a cumulative-impact standard that lawmakers have not enacted. “If they fulfill all of these things that the law says they have to do,” Strong said of regulated companies, “it becomes a, how could it not be approved?” Changing that, she said, means changing the legal framework. Strong said versions of cumulative-impact legislation have surfaced repeatedly during her more than seven years working in the state environmental justice office. “It really is the long game, unfortunately,” she said. Detroit City Council Member Gabriela Santiago-Romero said residents are still fighting environmental threats piece by piece. Santiago-Romero represents Detroit’s District 6, which includes the 48217 ZIP code and much of Southwest Detroit. “It seems like a lot of elected officials do not care that we have people that are dying of weird throat cancers and mouth cancers and asthma,” Santiago-Romero said. Her office is trying to address one contributor: industrial truck traffic, much of it tied to the Ambassador Bridge, the busy international crossing connecting Detroit and Windsor, Ontario, and carrying commercial freight between the United States and Canada. Santiago-Romero said Detroit has been working to create and codify truck routes to keep heavy vehicles away from residential streets. The work is complicated because roads throughout the area are controlled by different levels of government. “We have an accumulation of pollution in our neighborhoods,” she said. “Not just Marathon, not just the Ambassador Bridge and heavy materials and waste. It’s also the trucks that are in our neighborhood.” “And frankly,” she said, “it is a lot.” Detroit has also adopted a fugitive dust ordinance, a local law aimed at reducing airborne dust from construction sites, scrap yards and other industrial operations. It requires certain businesses to create and follow dust-control plans so particulate pollution is less likely to drift into nearby neighborhoods, but Santiago-Romero said enforcement has been uneven. “I feel like no matter what is passed by law, it’s not enforced,” she said. At the state-wide level, state Sen. Erika Geiss, whose district includes River Rouge and Ecorse, introduced a bill in June to address fugitive dust from bulk solid-material facilities. The legislation would require dust-control measures and real-time particulate monitoring. It was referred to the state Senate’s Natural Resources and Agriculture Committee on June 11 and has not advanced further. These policies address real sources of pollution — and also illustrate the broader dynamic: One law addresses trucks. Another addresses fugitive dust. Another permit governs an industrial facility. Strong said Michigan has tried to address some of the immediate harm through its Environmental Justice Impact Grant program. In 2024, $20 million went to 43 grantees. Three of them, Strong said, are based in 48217 or directly benefit residents there.

The investments are focused heavily on what happens inside people’s homes. Strong said a grant to Bridging Communities is helping seniors improve indoor air quality and providing tools residents can use to better protect themselves. EGLE’s grant records say the project will collect air-quality data, provide air-cleaning equipment and offer education to older adults in the 48217 area. Another grant for upgrades to 10 Southwest Detroit homes went to EcoWorks, a Detroit nonprofit focused on sustainability, green building and energy education. The homes will get solar panels, improved air systems, mold remediation, sump pumps and electric appliances. Strong described the work as “very personal to the people who live in the community,” including sump pumps for homes that have flooded, replacing gas appliances with electric ones, solar panels and better air-filtration systems. “It’s a really important piece of how we can both have impact on individuals in the community while we work on the bigger policy pieces and the bigger pieces that are going to impact everybody,” Strong said. Strong said the third project also centers older residents, combining health education with improvements meant to keep outside pollution from entering homes. That project, through St. Patrick Senior Center, will upgrade HVAC systems and provide health education to more than 300 Southwest Detroit seniors, according to EGLE. The communities themselves have also spent years trying to build protections outside government. The Rev. Alex Hill has been involved in environmental justice work around 48217 for nearly three decades from inside New Mt. Hermon Missionary Baptist Church. “There’s not a family in my church that has not been affected” by cancer, he said. Years ago, Hill said, New Mt. Hermon helped environmental activist Rhonda Anderson with a door-to-door effort asking residents whether someone in their household had died from cancer. Flags were placed outside homes that reported a death. Hill said nearly every house canvassed in parts of 48217 and neighboring 48218 had a flag. The canvass was not an epidemiological cancer study. It did not establish causation or determine whether cancer rates in the community were statistically higher than expected. But the flags remain part of how residents describe years of illness around them. And they help explain why Democratic lawmakers in Michigan have been pushing the state to look beyond pollution one permit at a time. New Mt. Hermon has provided space for organizing and has operated an air-monitoring system behind the church for roughly eight years. Hill and other activists have participated in toxic tours that take residents and visitors past industrial facilities surrounding Southwest Detroit, River Rouge and Ecorse. Now Hill and Tri-City Community Development Corporation are working toward an even larger project. On six acres near the church where the former Mark Twain Elementary School once stood, the organization has plans for a green space known as Eden Park. Hill envisions trees, greenery and other tools that could help reduce pollution exposure. His plans also include mechanical trees, technology intended to capture carbon dioxide, that he hopes could eventually be used throughout surrounding communities. Hill is under no illusion that community projects alone can erase decades of industry. “The industries are not going anywhere,” he said. “That’s just a fact.” But he also knows many residents cannot simply leave. “The people in the community, most of them can’t afford to go nowhere,” Hill said. This summer, Hill’s nonprofit organization, TriCity CDC, added another piece to its environmental work: teaching young people how to advocate for themselves. Its first Environmental Justice Youth Ambassadors cohort graduated this month, including 25 young people from Southwest Detroit, River Rouge and Ecorse. Hill said participants spent roughly six to eight months learning about environmental justice, taking toxic tours, developing projects and presenting possible solutions. Those completing the program receive $1,000 stipends. Among them is Hill’s 12-year-old granddaughter, Nala Hill. “When we went on our first toxic tour, it really opened my eyes to see what was going on and how much every company was polluting our area and what we’re living in,” Nala said. She said learning about the neighborhood made her want to become more involved. “We can fight even more once you know about it,” she said. Collins, 67, remembers her childhood in a community where neighbors knew one another and families looked out for each other. She remembers something else, too: waking up to orange dust settled across the cars outside. “We as a people, we have to start standing up,” Collins said. “Somebody has to start saying something, for our children. For our children’s sake.” In Southwest Detroit, some of those children, like Nala, are already learning how.

ICE

From page A-1 noted that over 50 people died in ICE custody over a recent multi-month period, including medical emergencies in facilities like Delaney Hall in New Jersey. The Pulitzer Prize-winning organization Futuro Media has reported hundreds of immigrants being sexually abused in detention centers controlled by ICE. They report over 308 sexual assault and abuse complains, filed nationwide between 2015 and 2021. A new set of gloves is not needed for ICE. It is a new standard of accountability for its illegal and unconstitutional actions. Even the scripture gives a clear analysis of America’s current dilemma, “Every good tree brings forth good fruit. But a corrupt tree brings forth evil fruit,” Matthew 7:17. The tree of ICE is corrupt. All that can come from this tree is evil and more bad fruit. There must be a fair, congressionally approved, and monitored

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Black Voters From page A-1 what’s at stake. Thank you for all you’re doing to serve Detroit!” Benson’s campaign has been showing up at Black churches in Detroit and organizations made up of reliable Democratic voters. At Tech Town in Detroit’s New Center neighborhood earlier this month, Benson sat down with a number of small Black business owners who told her what they need from the state. After the Aug. 12 tour, hosted by Tech Town CEO Ned Staebler, a Democratic donor, Benson said she wants to be different than outgoing Gov. Gretchen Whitmer by focusing on state support for small businesses looking for additional resources. “We need to grow our economy by investing in multiple industries, small businesss growth, and I’m eager to get started on this work because this is how we actually build wealth and create more jobs,” Benson said. At the Trade Union Leadership Council on Grand River, Benson was introduced by the late Jesse Jackson’s son, Yusef Jackson, who called Benson, “Sister Jocelyn.” “We have a candidate who has the right spirit… Now we must do our part. We must register, even the same day. We must go to our neighbor and help turn out. We must organize, and when the election is over, we must hold her accountable,” Jackson said. “Not because we don’t trust her, but because she will face powerful lobbyists and powerful interests and powerful pressures. We must be the center pressure to the pressure she feels to keep our agenda front and center.” Benson has said she would address issues directly affecting Black residents, like maternal healthcare. “As your next governor, I will treat and prioritize and address the Black maternal health care crisis with the urgency and it demands,” Benson said earlier this year. She wants to invest in Medicaid-covered doula and midwife services, require bias training for maternal healthcare providers and increase access to prenatal and postpartum care. She has also advocated for expanding RxKids, a universal cash program that studies say has improved the quality of life for new mothers and their children. Lakia Wilson-Lumpkins, president of the Detroit Federation of Teachers, said at the Trade Union Leadership Council building that Benson understands the

DHS. Its policies must be respectful of due process and the rule of law based on the following: • Truth and transparency • Enhanced training for all agents • Domestic abusers, violent law breakers, former fired or reassigned abusive police officers must be ineligible • Cultural and sensitivity training must be included Independent investigations of incidents involving lethal and non-lethal force must be included in the process. Rubber bullets, electric shock, over extended restraints, and pepper spray can both injure and, in some cases, result in death. America does need a system of injustice modeled after non-democratic and authoritarian regimes. Electric gloves are reminiscent to the African American community of the ropes and chains used to control Blacks in America. Currently, those chains are being used as ankle bracelets to contain and control Haitians. This proposed policy is consistent with what seems to be the steriliza-

challenges facing Detroit’s young people and educators. “Jocelyn understands education from more than one perspective,” Wilson-Lumpkins said. “She’s an educator, she’s a parent and she is the daughter of special education teachers. She understands what happens in the classroom then shapes the trajectory of a child’s entire life.” James and Michigan’s Republican Party are making efforts to reach Black voters in Detroit, but they face an uphill battle in the city known as a Democratic stronghold. Polling by Fox News shows Benson with a massive lead among Black voters, leading James among Black voters by 74% (86% – 12%). “Staying home in November is not an option,” Wilson-Lumpkins said. “Voting for John James is a vote against our own. It is a vote for Trump and an open door for racist, sexist xenophobic, fascist movement to expand here in our Michigan.” Trump’s presidential campaign in 2024 and the Michigan Republican Party have increased direct outreach to Black voters in Detroit since 2020. U.S. Sen. candidate Mike Rogers last week held an event on the city’s west side with Democratic state Rep. Karen Whitsett, who last year disavowed her party citing religious reasons. Whitsett represents what Republicans believe is a growing population of disaffected former Democrats willing to vote for conservatives who they align with on cultural issues. Republicans gained with city of Detroit voters in 2024, with President Trump earning nearly 20,000 votes, an increase of about 8,000 votes in 2020. While James himself lives in Shelby Township and went to Brother Rice High School in Bloomfield Township, his family has ties to the city of Detroit. His father, a philanthropist, was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame in September 2024 and is considered a pioneer for Black truckers. “My father, John A. James, was born in the Jim Crow South,” James said. “He lived across the street from Mississippi State University and couldn’t attend classes because he was Black. But he did not allow the circumstances of his birth to dictate his destiny. He enlisted in the Army, served in Vietnam, and then moved to Detroit to start a company with one truck, one trailer and no excuses.” You can reach Sam at srobinson@michronicle.com

tion and purification of America. The Trump Administration has indicated that certain immigrants are poisoning the blood of the nation. Yet over 6,500 white South Africans from a nation rooted in Apartheid have been admitted and welcomed into the U.S. Detaining 2,000 people per day, subject to deportation, is no more than human exploitation. People of goodwill must stand against this policy. Corporations and businesses must indicate to the Administration this is not good business. It has resulted in a decline in employment, fear of consumers shopping at small businesses, and a major reduction in tourism. Congress should investigate and block this proposal. Courts must not allow this to go forward. Faith community must preach and teach against this evil corrupting the very soul of our nation. If not us, then who? If not now, then when? Shocking the life out of refugees seeking asylum in America today will lead to the same electric shock to peacefully protesting American citizens tomorrow.

A3 | September 2-8, 2026

Roots.

michiganchronicle.com

Detroit Students Build School in Senegal, Bring Lessons of Service Home By Jasmine West

When Martin Luther King Jr. Senior High School student Vanessa Roberson learned she had an opportunity to travel to Senegal, leaving the country felt almost too big to imagine. “I was really like, ‘No way,’” Roberson said. “The idea of leaving the country was just so crazy to me, but I knew I wanted to do it.” By the time the rising senior returned to Detroit, the trip had given her a sharper understanding of something she already valued: education. “I learned that education is really the key to everything in our society,” Roberson said. “Education is still really important because that’s the one thing that nobody can ever take from you once you get it.” Roberson was one of 21 Detroit Public Schools Community District high school students who traveled to Senegal in July through buildOn, a nonprofit organization that combines youth service work with leadership development. The students represented seven buildOn partner high schools across DPSCD. Two district staff members also joined the trip, including Pershing High School Principal Bryant Tipton. Their assignment in Senegal was clear: work alongside residents of a rural village to help build a school.

Future of Wright,

Detroit Historical museums could be determined by November millage By Aaron Foley

The students did not pay to participate. According to buildOn, the trip, including international airfare, was fully funded by the organization. Students were selected from 2,946 Detroit students who participated in buildOn service-learning programs during the 2025-26 school year, with spots awarded based on service and leadership. For Tipton, who is entering his 27th year with DPSCD, the experience became as much about observing community as constructing a building. He traveled with roughly 20 students from across the district and watched them compare life in Detroit with what they encountered in Senegal. “A lot of things we take for granted here, that they take for granted there,” Tipton said. “They don’t have the violence and all the other things that our kids have to go through just to get to school. But on the flip side, they don’t have the resources that we have to a regular school building.” Students stayed with host families in a rural village, where homes did not have the same access to electricity and running water that many of them were accustomed to in Detroit. They spent roughly four hours a day helping with construction, often in temperatures around 95 degrees. But Tipton said some of the biggest lessons

See DETROIT STUDENTS BUILD SCHOOL IN SENEGAL Page A-4

Two of Detroit’s leading historical institutions are coming together to urge voters in two of the three metropolitan-area counties this November to pass a millage that would fund their continued operations to stay afloat – a move that signals not only the precarious state of affairs for the region’s cultural offerings, but also reflects a widening distance from the one county glaringly absent from the conversation. Leadership and supporters of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African-American History and the Detroit Historical Society, which operates the Detroit Historical Museum in Midtown and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Belle Isle, say they want to “spend less time worrying about survival” with a proposal that residents in Wayne and Oakland counties allocate a portion of their property tax value toward a fund that would “secure the financial future and stabilize these institutions.” Calling it the “Say Yes to Our Story” initiative, the proposal will be on ballots across the two counties on Election Day. The proposal calls for 20 cents per $1,000 of taxable value for homeowners in the two counties; leaders at a Wednesday press conference at the Wright framed it as a $30 annual cost for a resident whose home is worth $300,000. “It’s a reasonable amount -- $3 a month – to keep these institutions alive,” Elana Rugh, president and CEO of the Detroit Historical Society, said. The measure needs approval from 51 percent of voters in both Wayne and Oakland to pass. Should it come to fruition, a 10-year fund would be created to relieve costs of some dayto-day operations at the three museums, a pot for other smaller museums in the two counties to share from, and a boost toward transportation and other resources for students and seniors. Oakland and Wayne residents in turn would be granted free admission to the Wright, Detroit Historical and Dossin museums. “Both of our institutions have carried this work for decades on budgets that were never served,” said Neil Barclay, president and CEO of the Wright Museum. “This method changes that. It keeps our doors open and free.” Leaders say they have been working with elected officials in Metro Detroit’s tri-county area for almost a decade toward some solution toward boosting funding – or, as it seems, stemming losses – toward the three museums, all of which are publicly held through a partnership with the City of Detroit

Government and governed by the Southeast Michigan Public Museum Historical Authority, a board that has oversight of public museums in Wayne and Oakland counties. The lone -- and now frequent, at least for discussions of these matters -- holdout was Macomb County, which dignitaries in attendance at a press conference held Tuesday at the Wright say contributed to why a millage was not placed before voters sooner. “We have friends from Macomb County, and they’re disappointed,” said Rugh, who told the Chronicle in a sideline conversation. Of the three counties in the region, the museums seeking a funding boost see the least attendees from Macomb. Attendees at Wednesday’s conference emphasized “a focus on Wayne and Oakland,” but did drop some occasional hints as to why Macomb County is not in view here. Mentioned at least once publicly was the failure to pass a sweeping transit proposal that would have connected the tri-counties and Washtenaw County by adding new rail and bus commuter options along major corridors. The proposal was placed on ballots in all four counties in 2016 and approved by Wayne and Washtenaw residents, but narrowly lost in Oakland. Macomb voters, however, rejected the proposal by a stunning margin, a loss that has continued to loom large across any discussion of civic consensus a decade later. “Right now, we’re going to focus on Oakland and Wayne counties,” Detroit City Councilman Scott Benson, who has been part of the years-long conversation about the museums’ future, told the Chronicle. “In the future, we’ll talk to Macomb. What they haven’t seen is an opportunity like this. “Even though we have a history of division in some areas, this is an opportunity for us all to come together, and we’re showing it today,” Benson added. Privately, some attendees who did not want to be identified pointed to Macomb County residents being less enthusiastic about cultural offerings as their wealthier, older-money neighbors to the west in Oakland, as well as persistent hesitation, or outright reluctance, to fund anything in or related to Detroit proper. Some on-the-record comments lend to that sentiment. “Macomb County has been the hardest to get,” Barclay told the Chronicle about support for the Wright. “Just look at the demographics and how many people we have.”

See FUTURE OF WRIGHT Page A-4

Only Half of Detroit’s 90k Eligible Kids Use Their Free Dental Care.

Covenant Community Care Wants to Change That Covenant’s mobile dental team returns to Detroit classrooms this fall, treating thousands of students at no cost to their families. No Detroit resident should have to live with a toothache because of the cost. Covenant Community Care is welcoming same-day and new patient dental appointments at its three Detroit health centers. The nonprofit is a Federally Qualified Health Center that has served Metro Detroit for more than 25 years. It accepts most insurance, including Medicaid, and offers a sliding scale for uninsured or underinsured patients. “We see patients every day who’ve been putting off care because they didn’t think they could afford it, or didn’t realize Medicaid is accepted here,” said Lynn Eickholt, D.D.S., chief dental officer at Covenant Community Care. “We want Detroit to know: You don’t have to be in pain. We have sameday appointments, payment options for every budget, and a team ready to help.” The health centers provide dental exams, digital X-rays and cleanings, along with fillings, sealants, root canals, extractions, crowns, fluoride

treatments, deep cleanings and dentures. Pediatric dental care and select oral surgery are also available. The Joy Road and Michigan Avenue locations offer nitrous oxide.

Dental care is available at: Michigan Avenue Health Center — 5716 Michigan Ave., 313-554-1095; open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (does not accept same-day new patients) Moross Health Center — 20901 Moross Road, 313-626-2600; open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (accepts same-day new patients) Joy Road Health Center — 17625 Joy Road, 313-446-8800; open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; and Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. (accepts sameday new patients) Patients can schedule an appointment by calling their nearest health center. Mobile Dental Program in Detroit Schools Covenant’s care doesn’t stop at the clinic door. Each year, its mobile dental team drives directly into Detroit classrooms, treating thousands of students on-site. The program returns to 18 De-

See COVENANT COMMUNITY CARE Page A-4

Page A-4 | September 2-8, 2026 | michiganchronicle.com

Detroit Students Build School in Senegal From page A-3

Covenant Community Care From page A-3 troit Public Schools Community District buildings and three other schools this fall, along with 90 Head Start locations and community partners including Capuchin Kitchen, Covenant House and the Salvation Army. “When we set up in a school, we’re not just treating cavities. We’re helping students avoid the pain that can make it difficult to focus in class,” said Kara Bond, D.D.S, Covenant’s mobile dental team manager. “There is no cost to families. We bill Medicaid di-

rectly, and if a child does not have coverage, we provide care anyway. By bringing dental services directly to schools, we help children stay healthy, present and ready to learn.” Nationally, children miss 51 million hours of school each year because of preventable dental problems, according to the National Journal of Public Health. Covenant’s mobile dental care program removes transportation and access barriers, improves oral health outcomes for children and adults, supports school attendance and

Future of Wright From page A-3

Macomb County suburbs in recent years have seen significant increases in Black residents. Much attention has been paid to Harper Woods, a Wayne County, inner-ring suburb whose population tipped past 50 percent in the last 2020 Census count -NAACP chapter and all. In the same timespan, Eastpointe, the suburb once known as East Detroit renamed in 1992 to align with the Grosse Pointes, is now starting to look a little less like a Pointe and a little more like east Detroit, with its Black population rising to 52 percent at last count. “We’re hopeful in the future. That door is definitely not shut,” Rugh says about Macomb County. “We do have many more visitors from Wayne and Oakland County, but Macomb’s next, right? But you know, there’s a significant difference…and so we had to make that tough decision.” Macomb County voters did approve a millage alongside their neighbors in Wayne and Oakland to fund a millage for the Detroit Institute of Arts, something Rugh says is indicative for regionwide support of the arts. “I really believe that the residents of our region really do appreciate arts and culture and what we do, and they see the importance of it and its importance to a region – that vibrant cities have vibrant and sustainable cultural institutions in a city center.”

academic success, and reduces preventable dental emergencies. Raising Funds for New Mobile Dental Van Covenant will host its Links to Care Golf Outing Sept. 28 to help raise funds for a new mobile dental van, expanding the program’s capacity to reach more Detroit schools and community sites. Schools and organizations interested in booking a mobile dental visit can call 313-575-7502 or email Kara Bond, DDS, mobile dental team manager, at kbond@ covenantcommunitycare.org. The mobile dental team is not available for individual patient requests.

The proposed millage comes at a time when residents in all three counties have been asked frequently to allocate more funds to any public institution, including libraries, schools, public parks, and more. Detroit-area voters this November will also be asked to approve a renewal of funding for the Detroit Zoo. Both Barclay and Rugh acknowledge “we’ve got our work ahead of us,” and that informal polling ahead of Wednesday’s announcement suggested that asking for a modest amount would be appropriate, but not a total solution. “It really doesn’t work to determine what ne need to be sustainable long-term,” Rugh says, pointing to a statute that allowed for the formation of the aforementioned dual-county museum board. The same statute allows for museums governed by the authority not only to ask for a millage, but to determine the amount; the three museums opted to ask for the minimum rate on taxable value. “These institutions have struggled for decades, but we can only go for these millages every two years,” Barclay said. “But I think it’s a time where the polling suggests that people could be supportive of us. “At this moment, it’s a modest ask. It’s not as big as the other millages, and we’ve been straightforward to the voters,” Barclay added. “And we think it’s also an important time in both the history of this city and of the region to have these institutions preserved.”

came after the physical work was done. He was struck by the closeness of the families and neighbors around them. “They were very close knit, very family oriented, and it’s a real sense of community,” Tipton said. Tipton said students noticed how much work women in the village carried each day. Watching that labor prompted some of them to think differently about their mothers and caregivers at home. “One of the kids [was] like, ‘I’m going to help my mom out more when I get home,’” Tipton said. The student told him the experience made them realize “how much my mom actually do.” Students also participated in daily discussions centered around solidarity, courage, resilience, empathy and what buildOn calls a “passion for the possible.” Cultural activities included farming, couscous making, Senegalese wrestling, a traditional wedding ceremony and discussions about gender roles. Their time in Senegal also included a visit to Gorée Island, one of the locations associated with the history of the transatlantic slave trade. For a group of predominantly Black students from Detroit, the trip placed African history alongside present-day African life. The students were not encountering the continent solely through slavery or a history textbook. They were living with families, sharing meals, working beside residents, and learning how people built community in the village around them. For Roberson, that experience added another layer to what service could mean. She described buildOn as a program where students are given space to identify problems they care about and develop service projects around them. That has already played out in Detroit. Roberson said concerns about immigration enforcement, ICE, and students being separated from their communities moved her to bring the issue to buildOn. Students later worked on informational “whistle kits” containing material about people’s rights and what to do during an encounter with immigration enforcement. “They heard me,” Roberson said of the organization. Her experience with the

program has also been tied to the relationships she has built within DPSCD. Roberson has attended King throughout high school and said one of the things she values most about the district is the way educators form personal relationships with students. She remembered walking into King as a ninth grader and being surprised when a staff member already knew her name. More recently, after returning from Senegal, she ran into one of her former middle school teachers during a post-Trek gathering. The teacher had not seen her since she was about 12. “She made sure she got my phone number and everything,” Roberson said. “She told me about how proud she is and how much I’ve grown.” Tipton said those connections are part of what has kept him in Detroit education for nearly three decades. “I’m proud of the way that the district and the direction the district is headed in, but I’m also proud of just being able to lead Pershing,” he said. This year will carry additional significance for his school. Tipton said the Class of 2027 will be the final class to graduate from Pershing’s current building before the school transitions to a new facility. “Pershing is a historic school,” Tipton said. “You have a lot of historic and famous people that came out of there.” The students’ journey to Senegal began with service much closer to home. Throughout the school year, buildOn students volunteer across Detroit, working with children and older adults, addressing hunger, supporting environmental projects and responding to issues they identify in their own neighborhoods. BuildOn reports that 93% of students who remain involved throughout high school graduate on time and that participants are 21% more likely to enroll in college. For the 21 DPSCD students who made the trip, Senegal offered an opportunity few young people receive. But the experience was earned through work they were already doing in Detroit. They went thousands of miles away to help another community build a school. They came back thinking about what it means to strengthen their own.

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A5 | September 2-8, 2026

Money.

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Property is Power!

Start over

Rebuild just don’t Give Up By Dr. Anthony O. Kellum CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

I have experienced tremendous success and created real wealth, but I have also experienced failure, loss, disappointment, and moments when I questioned whether I could ever rebuild what I had worked so hard to create. The 2008 real estate and mortgage crash changed everything for me. Before the collapse, I had reached a level of success that many people dream about. I understood the mortgage business, had built valuable relationships across the country, and believed I had created something strong enough to withstand almost anything. Then the market crashed. The best way I can describe what it felt like is to imagine being aboard the Titanic when it struck the iceberg. Everything was sinking around me banks, mortgage companies, investors, businesses, and relationships that had taken Anthony O. Kellum years to build. Many of the companies and people I had worked with were suddenly gone, and those that survived were fighting their own battles. I felt like one of the few survivors floating in the freezing water, surrounded by the remains of an entire industry. The relationships I had relied upon had disappeared. The companies I had done business with had either closed, failed, or completely changed direction. Even the people who wanted to help were dealing with their own problems. When I finally attempted to return to real estate and mortgage lending, I discovered that I was not simply picking up where I had left off. I had to start over in an industry that had been completely transformed. The crash did not care about my experience, past success, reputation, or confidence. It was brutal. I watched much of what I had built disappear, and I felt broken financially and emotionally. After experiencing extreme success, I suddenly found myself facing the reality of rebuilding my life from the ground up. The pressure did not affect only me. It placed an enormous strain on my children, my family, and the people closest to me. I was trying to protect them from the fear and uncertainty while carrying responsibilities that did not disappear simply because the market had collapsed. There were obligations to fulfill. There were people depending on me. I was trying to keep the business afloat, keep my family together, and somehow keep myself from dying… If I am completely honest, I was also trying to keep my image afloat. When you have experienced a certain level of success, it can be difficult to admit that you are struggling. People expect you to have the answers. They see confidence and accomplishments, but they do not see the fear, pressure, sleepless nights, or private battles. I had become so attached to the person I had been and the success I had achieved that I could not accept where I was. I was hiding. A friend of mine named HJ finally told me something I desperately needed to hear. He looked around the neighborhood, pointed toward the

See START OVER Page A-7

Pay As You Stay Returns as Detroit Homeowners Face November Deadline for Property Tax Relief By Jasmine West Detroit homeowners who have fallen behind on property taxes once again have access to a program designed to reduce old tax debt and keep people from losing their homes to foreclosure. Wayne County’s Pay As You Stay program, known as PAYS, is returning after state lawmakers made permanent the legal authority that allows counties to offer certain foreclosure-prevention payment agreements. Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield and Wayne County Treasurer Eric Sabree are now urging homeowners who may qualify to begin with the city’s Homeowners Property Exemption, or HOPE, before the Nov. 6 deadline. The two programs address different pieces of a homeowner’s tax burden. HOPE can reduce or eliminate a qualifying Detroit homeowner’s current-year property taxes based largely on household income. Homeowners who receive the exemption and owe delinquent property taxes can then qualify for PAYS through the Wayne County Treasurer’s Office. For families already behind, that distinction matters. Property taxes do not disappear when a household loses income, encounters a medical emergency or struggles with another financial setback. Once taxes become delinquent, interest and penalties can deepen the debt and eventually put the property at risk of foreclosure. PAYS creates another path. Under the program, eligible delin-

quent tax debt can be reduced by removing interest, penalties and fees and limiting what some homeowners owe based on the property’s taxable value. The remaining balance can be paid through a three-year, zero-interest payment agreement. Homeowners who pay the reduced balance in full can qualify for an additional reduction. The program had been unavailable after provisions in state law governing tax foreclosure avoidance agreements expired. In July, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed Senate Bill 423, sponsored by Detroit Democratic Sen. Stephanie Chang, making delinquent property tax installment plans and tax foreclosure avoidance agreements permanent under Michigan law. Wayne County says PAYS will again be available beginning Sept. 1. For Detroit homeowners, access to PAYS begins with HOPE. The exemption is available to people who own and occupy their homes as their primary residence and meet household income and asset requirements. The amount of relief ranges from a 10% exemption to a full exemption from current-year property taxes. For 2026, a one-person household can earn up to $21,597 for a full exemption and as much as $42,114 for the program’s 10% exemption under certain circumstances. For a four-person household, the thresholds range from $33,436 for a full exemption to $65,200 for a

10% exemption. Household assets generally cannot exceed $12,000, excluding the home itself and certain other allowable property. More than 15,000 Detroit homeowners were approved for HOPE in 2025, according to the city. The renewed PAYS program carries additional weight in Detroit, where tax foreclosure has shaped neighborhoods for years. At the height of the city’s foreclosure crisis, thousands of homes were entering tax foreclosure annually. Detroit also continues to live with the consequences of widespread overassessment during the years following the Great Recession, when many homeowners were billed property taxes based on values that did not reflect the collapse of the housing market. Against that history, keeping a homeowner current on taxes can determine whether a house remains family property or becomes another vacant or investor-owned parcel. Since PAYS began in 2020, the program has helped nearly 18,000 Detroit property owners and families avoid losing their homes, according to reporting on the program’s return. “The PAYS and HOPE property tax partnership has made it possible for thousands of families in Detroit and Wayne County to avoid foreclosure,” Sabree said. Sheffield said the program also serves

See PROPERTY TAX RELIEF Page A-6

NATIONAL BLACK BUSINESS MONTH PROFILE

Mays Printing: Rooted in legacy. Built for what’s next. By Biba Adams STAFF REPORTER

Acclaimed inspirational author Shannon Adler once wrote, “Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you.” For three generations, Detroiters have shared stories about the Mays family and their legacy of service to the community through their thriving printing and design business. Founded by J. Caulton Mays in 1946, the company filled a necessary need, supplying churches with printed church bulletins, programs, and obituaries. In 1996, during his 80th birthday celebration and the 50th anniversary of the business, J. Caulton Mays told the Michigan Chronicle, “I’ve been asked, ‘what’s the secret for being in business so long?’ he continued, “My answer is, there is no secret but there is a formula; Believe in yourself and in what you are doing, work hard to achieve your goals, be fair and honest by giving your customer what he’s paying for. Always remember, your customers are your greatest asset—for without customers, you won’t be in business long.” It is a formula that has been passed down within the Mays family. While involved in the business from early on, 1985 marks the pivotal year that his son, James C. Mays, took over. He transformed a neighborhood print shop into a high-performance commercial printing powerhouse. Under his leadership, Mays earned the trust of Fortune 500 companies and Detroit’s most

respected institutions. Third-generation leader Elizabeth Mays is pioneering the next chapter as a Black female-owned multimedia firm. Elizabeth merges ink with digital innovation — expanding into web design, self-publishing, and memorial services for 600+ partners nationwide. Starting out in her family business as

a janitor at the tender age of 10, Elizabeth would accompany her father to the shop every morning at 6:30 am before school and sweep “every inch.” She later worked at the front desk, then the design department, and following college, earning a degree in Graphic Arts and Imaging from Western Michigan University, she began her ascent to leadership and ultimately CEO of Mays

Printing. Elizabeth proudly asserts, “I definitely earned my seat.” Being a part of a family business, Elizabeth explains, requires not just the ability and skill, but also the willingness to do the work. She also recognized the importance of her family’s business when, in school at Paul Robeson Academy, her principal, Ray Johnson, would often call her out and celebrate her family’s entrepreneurial efforts. It helped her understand that she was a part of something to be proud of. As CEO, her role is reminiscent of a quote that her grandfather gave in that 1996 interview: “Our motto is ‘Since 1946, we have been a part of your past, and we will be a part of your future.’” Elizabeth illustrates the motto through the company’s historic work in creating obituaries for 80 years. “Mays has and always will be known for our memorial programs. We started in the black community in Paradise Valley, in Black Bottom, that also played a very direct impact on the access of what Black people were able to get their hands on because we [had to support] our own businesses. We weren’t allowed in [other] spaces. And my grandfather, when he started the family business, he just understood how you play an integral role in the community.” For years, the company offered full-service memorial packages including design and printing for only $99, ensuring that Detroit families would be able to access the

See MAYS PRINTING Page A-6

Page A-6 | September 2-8, 2026 | michiganchronicle.com

Start over From page A-1

Property Tax Relief From page A-1 a neighborhood-stabilization role by keeping existing homeowners in place rather than waiting until a property reaches foreclosure. “Pay As You Stay has been a godsend for Detroiters at risk of losing their homes to tax foreclosure and has helped to stabilize neighborhoods by keeping homeowners in their homes,” Sheffield said. Detroit’s 2026 HOPE application deadline is 4:30 p.m. Nov. 6. Homeowners must reapply for the exemption annually, and the city encourages residents to submit applications early enough to correct missing documents or other prob-

lems before the deadline. The city will hold a HOPE information and enrollment event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 19 at Patton Recreation Center, 2301 Woodmere St. Residents applying for HOPE generally must provide proof of homeownership and residency, identification for adults in the household, household income records, tax documents and information about household assets. Homeowners approved for HOPE who have delinquent taxes can then be identified for PAYS through the Wayne County Treasurer’s Office. The county determines the eligible reduc-

Mays Printing From page A-1 service and celebrate their departed loved ones. She adds, “And you start by, if you can, start by offering the product or service that people get to receive from your hands to theirs. And memorial programs, and spiritual-based work, religious-based work was always our anchor, and it was our foundation. And doing programs was our way of paying homage to the impact that so many people had in our communities, right? Our grandmothers, our, you know, our aunts, our uncles, sometimes, you know, depending on the age, our children. So, offering that service gave us not only the ability to produce the work, but also left a lasting impact in homes and communities.” According to WXYZ, “the third-generation company has handled the printed and online obituaries and legacy tributes for generations of family members and some of Detroit’s most notable including Civil Rights Legend Rosa Parks, Boxer Joe Louis and Temptation Dennis Edwards.” With an eye on the future, Elizabeth notes that evolution comes naturally for Mays Printing. She notes that while Mays is known for a product that one can hold in their hands, the company has a history of design and more. “Our multimedia company has six divisions right now,” she explains. “Printing, of course, is our core. Our design division is focused on websites, illustration, and branding work. We also have a signage division where we’re doing large format printing for expos, events, conferences, galas. Our logistics division specifically moves dry goods that we produce or also supporting businesses with moving items at their need. While, our book and manufacturing division, which used to

tion and payment options. Detroit homeowners can find HOPE eligibility information and applications through the city’s HOPE program. Residents seeking assistance completing an application can also contact the Detroit Housing Network at 866-313-2520. For delinquent tax balances and PAYS enrollment, homeowners can contact the Wayne County Treasurer’s Office at 313-224-5990 or use the county treasurer’s property tax system. For homeowners carrying years of tax debt, the return of PAYS means the clock toward foreclosure does not have to be the only clock running.

be our book publishing division, but now we’re really focusing on printing books, magazines, zines, catalogs, workbooks, textbooks, planners, coloring books of that sort. Finally, We have our web development division, which is all about web solutions. Websites, e-commerce platforms, things of that sort. So the multimedia spectrum is really hinting on diversifying.” The growth of Mays Printing is evidenced by their over 600+ partners worldwide. “You know, I really would have to probably give that as a testament to traveling. I do a lot of traveling. I attend conferences and events, workshops, visiting family, being very curious all the time. So a lot of the relationships that have been built is through the connections of my travel or either through my affiliated work,” Elizabeth serves as the Co-President of the Detroit and Toledo chapters of the American Institute of Graphic Arts. As a third-generation leader of her family’s business, a succession plan is never far from Elizabeth’s mind. “I am kindly grooming consciously and unconsciously certain individuals in my family, specifically nieces and cousins. It’s always great when they have an interest. So, preparing the 4th generation, to be honest, kind of reminds me of this saying where sometimes I don’t want to dream too big because I want to be surprised by what God can do.” Elizabeth notes that the family business, and similarly, its legacy is bigger than a brick-and-mortar business. “The way that people talk about [Mays] whether it’s my grandfather or my father, they say the same thing, with different words with the same feeling. And it’s just so beautiful because my roots are not necessarily just the work that we do. And I’m even getting a little emotional talking about it right now. It’s not even just about the work that we do. It’s about the people that we are.”

cars and houses, and said, “That car is being repossessed. That one is being repossessed too. Those houses are in foreclosure. People are upside down on their mortgages, hiding cars from the repo man, and trying to figure out how to survive.” Then he looked at me and said, “Everybody smiling in your face is dealing with something. A lot of these guys are pretending everything is fine, but it isn’t. They are struggling too. You are hiding in your house because you think you’re the only one going through this, but you’re not.” HJ was a highly successful and respected person himself, so when he admitted, “I’m having my own problems too,” it woke me up. I had convinced myself that everyone else was moving forward while I was the only one sinking. But the truth was that we were all caught in the same storm. The entire economy was collapsing. Businesses were failing, homes were going into foreclosure, cars were being repossessed, and families everywhere were trying to hold themselves together. The world around me was sinking, yet somehow I had made the struggle personal. I believed my circumstances were proof that I alone had failed. Much of that illusion existed in my own mind. HJ continued, “You cannot keep hiding. You have to get back out there. You have to let people see you. Let the past go and start over.” That conversation changed something in me. It helped me understand that there was no shame in being affected by a crisis that had shaken the entire world. The real tragedy would have been allowing fear, pride, and embarrassment to keep me hidden forever. Still, letting go of my past success was one of the hardest things I had ever done. I had built so much of my identity around what I had accomplished, the lifestyle I had created, and the position I once held. I kept comparing where I was to where I used to be. Instead of appreciating the opportunity to rebuild, I measured every small step against the empire I had lost. That mindset became crippling. I eventually had to accept that the old world was gone and there would be no shortcut back. I had to come out of hiding, release the image I was desperately trying to protect, and face my situation honestly. Only then could I begin rebuilding not from the level of success I once enjoyed, but from exactly where I stood. I had to break myself all the way down and accept that there would be no shortcut to rebuilding. I had to repair my credit. I had to rebuild relationships. I had to get involved in smaller deals and prove myself again. I had to learn a changed industry, adapt to new regulations, and establish credibility in a marketplace that no longer looked like the one in which I had originally succeeded. There was no way to go around the work. If your credit is damaged, you have to repair it. If your finances are disorganized, you have to straighten them out. If your relationships have disappeared, you have to build new ones. If the industry has changed, you have to learn it again. You cannot skip the difficult part of rebuilding. You have to walk straight through it. That experience taught me that success is not simply about reaching the top. It is about developing the strength, knowledge, humility, and discipline to keep moving when life knocks you down. There is no permanent finish line. Markets change. Administrations change. Industries evolve. Relationships are tested. Challenges arrive without warning. Just because you reach

the top once does not mean you automatically stay there. You have to continue growing. Everybody talks about success, and there are countless theories about how to achieve it. But success begins with what you feed your mind. When you commit to learning, reading, growing, and discovering new ways to think more clearly and become stronger internally, those improvements eventually produce better outcomes including financially. What happened to me in 2008 also deepened my understanding of what “Property Is Power” truly means. Property represents more than a house, a building, or a piece of land. Property creates stability, leverage, opportunity, income, and options. It can help a family recover from hardship, finance an education, fund a business, create retirement income, and pass something meaningful to the next generation. But ownership also requires education, preparation, discipline, and perseverance. Property is powerful, but the greatest power begins within the person pursuing it. Today, the real estate and mortgage industries offer more ways to participate than ever before. Traditional financing remains available, but there are also DSCR loans, bank-statement programs, profit-and-loss programs, investor financing, renovation loans, and other products designed for people whose financial lives may not fit neatly into a traditional box. The market may be challenging, and the path may not always be easy, but there is no reason to remain permanently disconnected from ownership. You may have to start smaller than you imagined. You may have to repair your credit, save more money, form partnerships, educate yourself, or adjust your expectations. But you can begin. Do not allow today’s interest rates, political climate, past mistakes, or someone else’s opinion to convince you that ownership and wealth-building are beyond your reach. Difficult markets do not eliminate opportunity. They require greater knowledge, creativity, discipline, patience, and perseverance. I share my story because I want people especially the young men and women I mentor to understand that success is rarely a straight line. You can win, lose, rebuild, and win again. You can experience failure without becoming a failure. You can feel discouraged without surrendering your future. Sometimes rebuilding your life begins with accepting exactly where you are, releasing the person you used to be, and doing the next necessary thing no matter how small or humbling it may seem. I have seen both sides of success I have experienced wealth, and I have tasted failure. Through it all, I never stopped learning, reading, questioning, working, or believing that another chapter was possible. So the question is not whether growth is possible. The question is whether you have the courage and perseverance to rebuild. Will you keep working when nobody is applauding? Will you keep learning when you think you already know enough? Will you get back up when life knocks you down? Never give up, Never stop growing, Never allow one bad chapter even a devastating one to become the conclusion of your story. I survived my Titanic. I climbed out of the water, accepted that the old ship was gone, and began building again. You can too. Let’s go. Property is Power! Property is Power! is a movement to promote home and community ownership. Studies indicate homeownership leads to higher graduation rates, family wealth, and community involvement

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michiganchronicle.com | September 2-8, 2026 | Page A-7

Backers of Proof-of-Citizenship Voting Proposal Prepare Legal Battle After Ballot Disqualification Sam Robinson

on the ballot and passed by voters, would make Michigan one of the most restrictive places to cast a ballot in the country. New voters would have to prove their citizenship when registering, and so would existing voters; the state can’t independently verify it. The proposal would also remove the option for those without a valid photo ID to instead sign an affidavit verifying their identity under the penalty of perjury. The proposal would implement a “hardship program” funded by the state to allow those who aren’t able to afford identification documents to get an ID for free. Voting rights advocates have called the proposal an attempt to disenfranchise Black, low-income voters as well as women. Opponents

SENIOR REPORTER

have said it’s a Michigan version of the federal SAVE Act proposal backed by President Donald Trump and his allies. Detroit Branch NAACP President Wendell Anthony has been speaking in opposition to the measure, saying it could block eligible voters who don’t have passports or birth certificates. The fight over election law and procedure has become a central talking point for Republican candidates who have mostly followed behind Trump’s false assertions that Democratic cities somehow rigged elections against him. Out of the 5.6 million ballots cast across the state, six noncitizens were charged for casting a ballot in Michigan’s 2024 general election. You can reach Sam at srobinson@michronicle.com

The Michigan State Board of Canvassers last week denied ballot access to a constitutional amendment that would add steps SAMUEL LOGAN to Michigan’s election law Publisher 1933-2011 to ensure only U.S. citizens can vote. JOHN H. SENGSTACKE The group that gathered Chairman-Emeritus 1912-1997 A Real Times Media Newspaper and turned in the petition signatures says they will LONGWORTH M. QUINN E. JACKSON Publisher WILLIAMS Managing Editor fight the decision |in AJ court, Publisher-Emeritus 1909-1989 meaning state courts will likely decide whether 1452 Randolph • Detroit, MI or 48226 • (313) 963-8100 • e-mail: newsdesk@michronicle.com not the Americans for Citizen Voting Michigan ballot cine and healthcare, may what the Supreme Court proposal will appear on the be adversely impacted by will rule in the upcoming state’s November ballot. the decision to overturn days. Despite the deciThe initiative would require Elected Michigan voters to Roe v. Wade. officials are 1 sion, both “We are going to goadvocates to easier foron the group. prove they are U.S. citizens voters to qualify for the also working to keep “What we are really sides of the argument areof affairs ballot. every court we’ve got to “It’s a sad state women to appear on the Novemv. Democrats Wade intact go to,” reporters concerned about is Jacob the told berRoe ballot. have thus willing to that continue As it stands, the proposal the Boardtheir of State Canthe meeting. “We’ll vassers can’t even determine blasted the proposal voter won’t appear holding off asMichigan’s on theon ballot, impact our after patients. pursuits. n pre- suppression, go to the Supreme Court of exactly how many of the sigarguing it’s aldespite the group behind the 1931 trigger ban. Gover- Access to abortion is alv. Michigan. We’ll go“Overturning to the natures inRoe a law on the books. oment ready ballot measure turning in their supposedly nor Gretchen Whitmer ready out of reach for far Court, U.S. Supreme wherWade would be a terrible THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE PUBLISHING COMPANY 750,000 petition signatures. random sampling were not The state canvassers of the released a statement too many Michiganders, go because valid,” said with nearly 50Republican years Rep. 1452 Randolph • Detroit, MI 48226 • Phone: (313) 963-8100 up deadlocked last Chair of Americans for ever we have tobreak final. wound saying, in part: especially Blackthispeople is a travesty of justice.” Jay DeBoyer. “The number USPS• 344-820 Paul Jacob of judicial precedent and 1452 Randolph • Publication Detroit, MINo.: 48226 Phone: (313) 963-8100 a law- Monday, Aug. 24, in a meet- Citizens Voting and people of color who The Nov. 3 ballot must be has changed multiple times. ing to“The determine whether pledged to file a lawsuit to words ‘Roe overOFFICE HOURS: – more importantly – a Publication No.: USPS 344-820 31 law signatures turned in by overturn face by Sept. 4, mean- It was a few dozen short of additional barriers the board’s deci- certified Mon.-Fri. 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. | Closed Sat. and Sun. are no longer blow individual HOURS: effect, theturned’ DEADLINE ing of thesyscourts will need against to the threshold. Then it was OFFICE amendment’s backers sion. Jacob and supporters The Michigan Chronicle is publishedADVERTISING every Wednesday. to care as a result theoretical. I want every freedom. It is my hope act quickly. The makeup three short. Nobody seems Mon.-Fri. 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ed the were legitimate. The board of the measure Periodical Postage, paid at Detroit, MI. Price $1.00 and other post office. to Classified: 3 p.m Friday temic pointed inequalities and in- that Michigander to of know— Supreme to know forofsure. It’s a very Closed Sat.MEMBER the majority jusCopy, and cancellations, 2-2 on the question OF AUDIT BUREAU OFcorrections CIRCULATION and Sun. the fact that signatures of the Michigan m that voted stitutional racism. Losing tices will preceding the Wednesday publication. is reject questionable process that no matter the groupwhat turnedhappens in were turned in 244 days Court, which currently the findnstitu- whether The Michigan Chronicle is abortionof just one Reerodes trust for many.” ADVERTISING DEADLINE a sufficient number of valid before theaccess deadline. to legal comprised in D.C., I’m going to fight Display: 12 p.m. Friday ings of this draft. If that is ontain signatures from registered published every Wednesday. publican, won’t make it any will impact those comClassified: 3 p.m Friday The proposal, if placed preceding the Wednesday publication. like hell to protect access not the case, we need to Periodical Postage, n. Our Copy, corrections and cancellations, preceding thenews Wed­nand esday publication. For all calendar items: munities most, forcing stand with Senate Majorto safe, legal abortion in paid at Detroit, MI. Deadline is two weeks prior to event. anned Display: 12 p.m. Friday people to become parents ity Leader Schumer and Michigan…” Price $1.00 and otherpreceding post office. the Wednesday pub­ lication.that contain Weeks

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higan Chronicle

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Thirteen Votes. Thirteen Citizens.

tes of or expand their families More than legal impliunding against their will. Being alition cations, overturning Roe able to decide and conroduc- v. Wade would impact sev- trol if, when and how to All, a eral systems across the become a parent is cenaffirm spectrum. With the po- tral to building and living n and tential to drive both foster a healthy, happy life,” Janiceadoption M. Winfreynumbers om in Byand said Vasquez Giroux. DETROIT CITY CLERK ution,” upward, a ban on aborBeyond the scope of leave4thmany On thiscould past August Primairoux. tions pro-choice versus pro13 Detroit returned their toelectors choose a less s that ry,women absentee ballots to the Detroit City life, the fight for reprosafe route restoring ‘back ing in Clerk’s Office in the Coleman A. Young ductive choice is one of alley’ Center and before illegal aborabor- Municipal the legal 8:00 freedom. As Michigan tion practices, including higan, p.m. deadline. officials work to ensure self-abortions. Moreover, makes Their ballot envelopes were propereach woman who finds American endorsed with the voters’women signatures e will ly African herself in the position to and documented with the date and can and women of color, who time they were received. Those voters choose has access to care tients already have a long-stohad done their part. However, city without the threat of legal riedemployees historysecured withand, access e they clerk follow- action, many wonder and inclusion in ing strict chain of custody, medidelivered

MEMBER OFnews AUDIT For all andBUREAU calendar items: Deadline is two weeks prior event. holidays, dead line is to Thursday prior OF CIRCULATION to prior publication date. Weeks that contain holidays, dead­line is Thursday to publication date.

One Failure of Democracy

the ballots to the Detroit Department of islature Elections on Wednesday, adopts it. after the Election Day tabulation was submitted school fundto the Increase county. ing: Statutory changes The matter was brought to thetoat1 increase the School Aid tention of the Wayne County Bureau o have of Fund Elections, and ultimately quesrevenue by at the least of whether these 13 ballots could senta- tion $3.6 billion and establish was placed before the egisla- beatabulated permanent weighted Wayne County Board of Canvassers. funding formula based on That is where this story becomes student and community n and deeply troubling and personal to me. and al jus- needs There is an universal important preprinciecom- pleschool behind (0-3). Michigan’s election canpurposecensorship of the canvass is, ection vass: the Reject inin real sense, the perfection of the analy- a very history instruction: Enreturns. h the election couraging Whitmer Election NightGov. results are unofficial Attor- forto ensure the foran a reason. The canvassgoal provides chigan opportunity Michiganto schools should examine the returns, Law reconcile discrepancies, address errors be history instruction permitted by law andby ultimately ndards as that is presented procertify an accurate accounting of the iation fessionals with the subvotes lawfully cast by the people. cutors ject matter expertise, Following the August 4, 2026, olders pedagogical skills, and Primary Election, the Wayne County ct and Board judgment necessary to of Canvassers certified the votes ically. of present nearly 400,000 citizens. inforcomplex But 13 Detroit voters were left to students that war- mation are grounded in provHouse behind. The canvass not add supposed to be facts is and to the ations able a understanding ceremonial exercise in simply of mod-achear- cepting numbers produced on Election ern-day America. other Night. It exists to examine the election ld ban returns and, where the lawhealth permits, Increase mental and perfect of no- correct supports forthem. the Black Michigan election procedures speknock community: Recommendcifically contemplate situations in ng the ing Michigan set a goal which ballots are discovered that have pass of increasing the number not been tabulated. The canvassing and process of Black health providesmental a mechanism for admer to dressing suchproviders circumstances. service by 20% he leg- each Further, Michigan in 2022 year over electors five years. bolstered the right to cast an absentee ballot by amending the constitution to prohibit any person from using any means, which has the intent or effect of people denying orbelieve interferingthat with the funthey 1 damental right to vote. Canvassing need to for themselves races. boards must now follow this constiand others live canvassing better tutional provisiontowhen nsfor- elections. lives.”

The health Janice M. Winfrey committee recommends reviewing These 13 ballots were not late. The state licensure policies to 13 voters’ rights were not protected. address that were The votersthe werebarriers not late. They receivedpsychologists by the City Clerk face before the Black polls closed. Thelicensure voters signed in obtaining in their ballots. They returned them on ElecMichigan. tion Day within the legally prescribed time. Ensure equitable disWhateverof administrative failure octribution state health curred afterward the fault of funds: Ensurewas allnotMichithose 13 citizens. Yet they are the ones gan communities with a who paid the price. significant Black popuA motion was made by the Demlation receive ocratic chair of theadequate Wayne County funds addressto mental Board oftoCanvassers allow the ballots to be tabulated. The other Demohealth issues. cratic member supported the motion. Protecting Black voting Neither of the Board’s two Republirights: Urge state can members supportedofficials it. The motion to remain vigilant in13the failed on a 2-2 vote. And Detroit citizensagainst who followed the rules fight schemes to were denied the most fundamental promise disenfranchise Michiganwe make to a voter: ders of color. If you lawfully cast your ballot, “BLAC members your vote will be counted.have These 13 votes would not haveidentify changed the worked hard to outcome of theof election. does not the needs the That Black make them any less important. community and we feel The right to vote has never dependthese recommendations ed upon whether one person’s ballot will provide a solid first will determine who wins or loses an step breaking election.towards We do not stop counting ballots once the mathematical outcome down barriers in educabecomes apparent. We count them betion, community safety, cause every lawful vote represents the health and business,” voice of a citizen. saidThere BLAC Co-Chair Dr. is another point that cannot Donna L. Bell. be ignored. Nobody looking at those BLAC will hold a 13 vir-sealed ballot envelopes knew how those tual town hall meeting citizens voted. We did not know whether to discuss its policy recthey voted for Democrats or Republiommendations on their Thurscans. We did not know ideology, day, 12orat 4 p.m. Join their May politics their preferences. BLAC a that virtual audiAnd and none of should have mattered. in discussing the ence A ballot does not have a political recommendations to supparty until it is opened and counted. port the Black communi- A voter’s right to have it counted should ty. “Chancellor Ivery is BLAC is housed in the a true transformational Michigan Department of leader and an outstandLabor and Economic Oping CEO, who is more portunity. Members repthan worthy of the CEO of resent many professional the Year Award he just rebackgrounds, including ceived, “ said Prof. James economics, law, public C. Mays, who teaches entrepreneurship and safety, health and wellsupply chain manage- ness, arts and culture and ment at WCCCD’s Corpo- media. They leverage their rate College. “In his 27 experiences and expertise years at WCCCD, Dr. Ivery to make recommendahas elevated WCCCD to tions to the governor on Scan the QR Code to Sign Up critical issues affecting become nationally recogfor the Digital Daily Newsletter nized for excellence and the Black community. innovation and preparing To learn more about our students profession- BLAC and this upcoming ally and personally to do event, visit www.michi-

Curtis Ivery

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Gov. Whitmer in support of their efforts to preserve the right to reproductive freedom,” said Chair Alisha Bell, on behalf of the Wayne County Comnot have one either. mission.

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There will always be partisan disagreements in American politics. That is the nature of democracy. Candidates fight hard. Parties disagree. Elections have consequences. But there must be a line. And that line should be drawn around the voter. When citizens follow the law, meet the deadline and entrust their ballots to election officials, they should never lose their voices because Democrats and Republicans cannot agree to count them. People must come before partisanship. As Detroit City Clerk, I take seriously my responsibility for the administration of elections. When something goes wrong, government has a responsibility to acknowledge it and, whenever the law provides a remedy, correct it. We should never compound an administrative error by knowingly allowing a lawful voter’s voice to go unheard. Nearly 400,000 Wayne County voters had their voices reflected in the certified election returns. Thirteen Detroiters did not. Some will say, “It’s only 13 votes.” I reject that thinking. If your ballot were one of the 13, it would not be “only” a ballot. It would be your ballot. Your voice. Your constitutional right. Your faith that when government tells you to return your ballot by 8:00 p.m., and you do exactly that, government will keep its end of the bargain. Those 13 citizens trusted us. They fulfilled their responsibility. We failed to fulfill ours. The strength of our democracy is not measured only by how we treat hundreds of thousands of voters. It is measured by whether we are willing to stand up for one voter whose voice might otherwise be lost. This time there were 13. Their votes would not have changed who won. But counting them would have demonstrated something far more important: That in our democracy, people come before politics, voters come before parties, and every lawful vote matters. Detroit City Clerk, Janice M. Winfrey is a native Detroiter who has dedicated the last 20 years of her life to tirelessly and carefully servicing her community. When sworn into office in 2005, Clerk Winfrey accepted the responsibility to govern three charter-mandated roles: City Clerk, Official Record Keeper and Chief Elections Officer.

POSTMASTER — Send address changes to: POSTMASTER Send • address changes •to:DETROIT, MI 48226 MICHIGAN CHRONICLE 1452 Randolph MICHIGAN CHRONICLE | 1452 Randolph • DETROIT, MI 48226

STATE OF MICHIGAN BEFORE THE MICHIGAN PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION **** NOTICE OF HEARING FOR THE GAS CUSTOMERS OF DTE GAS COMPANY CASE NO. U-22123 • DTE Gas Company requests Michigan Public Service Commission’s approval of its Application for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to render natural gas service for residential customers in Sections 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 16, 17 & 18 of Richland Township of Missaukee County and Sections 31, 32 & 33 of Lake Township of Missaukee County. • The information below describes how a person may participate in this case. • You may call or write DTE Gas Company, One Energy Plaza, Detroit, MI 48226, 800-477-4747, for a free copy of its application. Any person may review the documents at the offices of DTE Gas Company or on the Commission’s website at: https://mi-psc.my.site.com/s/.

BIN AD 3cols x 5.25 • A pre-hearing will be held:

DATE/TIME:

Wednesday, August 26, 2026 at 9:00 AM

BEFORE:

Administrative Law Judge James M. Varchetti

LOCATION:

Video/Teleconferencing

PARTICIPATION: Any interested person may participate. Persons needing any assistance to participate or who are seeking access to the video/teleconference should contact the Administrative Law Judge’s secretary at (517) 284-8130 or by email at LARA-MOAHR-PSC@ michigan.gov in advance of the hearing. The Michigan Public Service Commission (Commission) will hold a pre-hearing to consider DTE Gas Company’s (“DTE Gas”) June 22, 2026 application which necessitates DTE Gas requesting the Commission for an Act 69 certificate of public convenience and necessity to provide natural gas service through the proposed natural gas expansion project (“Project”) to include the installation of 34,250’ of 4” 60# plastic and 16,975’ of 2” 60# plastic to serve residential customers located in Sections 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 16, 17 & 18 of Richland Township of Missaukee County and Sections 31, 32 & 33 of Lake Township of Missaukee County. All documents filed in this case shall be submitted electronically through the Commission’s E-Dockets website at: https://mi-psc. my.site.com/s/. Requirements and instructions for filing can be found in the User Manual on the E-Dockets help page. Documents may also be submitted, in PDF format, as an attachment to an email sent to: LARA-MPSC-edockets@michigan.gov. If you require assistance prior to e-filing, contact Commission staff at (517) 284-8090 or by email at: LARA-MPSC-edockets@michigan.gov. Any person wishing to intervene and become a party to the case shall electronically file a petition to intervene with this Commission by August 19, 2026. (Interested persons may elect to file using the traditional paper format.) The proof of service shall indicate service upon DTE Gas Company’s attorney, Carlton D. Watson, One Energy Plaza, 1650 WCB, Detroit, MI 48226. The prehearing is scheduled to be held remotely by video conference or teleconference. Persons filing a petition to intervene will be advised of the process for participating in the hearing. Any person wishing to appear at the hearing to make a statement of position without becoming a party to the case may participate by filing an appearance. To file an appearance, the individual must attend the hearing and advise the presiding administrative law judge of their wish to make a statement of position. Mich Admin Code, R 792.10413 (Rule 413). Any person wishing to file a public comment may do so by filing a written statement in this docket. The written statement may be mailed or emailed and should reference Case No. U-22123. Statements may be emailed to: LARA-MPSC-edockets@michigan.gov. Statements may be mailed to: Executive Secretary, Michigan Public Service Commission, 7109 West Saginaw Hwy., Lansing, MI 48917. All information submitted to the Commission in this matter becomes public information, thus available on the Michigan Public Service Commission’s website, and subject to disclosure. Please do not include information you wish to remain private. For more information on how to participate in a case, you may contact the Executive Secretary at the above address or by telephone at (517) 284-8090. Requests for adjournment must be made pursuant to Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules R 792.10422 and R 792.10432. Requests for further information on adjournment should be directed to (517) 284-8130. Jurisdiction is pursuant to 1929 PA 69, as amended, MCL 460.501 et seq.; 1909 PA 300, as amended, MCL 462.2 et seq.; 1919 PA 419, as amended, MCL 460.54 et seq.; 1939 PA 3, as amended, MCL 460.1 et seq.; 1969 PA 306, as amended, MCL 24.201 et seq.; and Parts 1 & 4 of the Administrative Hearing Rules of the Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules, Mich. Admin Code, R 792.10106(2), (3), (4), (5), (6), and (7); R 792.10121; and R 792.10401 through R 792.10448.

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B1 | September 2-8, 2026

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The Inner Architecture:

Dating While Spiritually Aware

By Miss AJ Williams The work has been done. And I do not mean the kind of work we casually reference in conversation, repost in an Instagram story, or tuck beneath a quote about healing. I mean the real work. Years of therapy. Books that did not just get highlighted, but applied. Attachment styles understood beyond the language of a quiz. Patterns traced all the way back to the moment they first learned how to survive. Shadow work that moved beyond vocabulary and became practice. That kind of work changes you. It gives you language for what Miss AJ Williams once confused you. It gives you clarity where there used to be chaos. And eventually, if you are paying attention, it gives you standards. You know what you want now: emotional availability, intention, consistency, presence. Someone who is not merely interested in the idea of partnership, but actually has the emotional capacity to participate in one. You are no longer mistaking intensity for intimacy. You are not romanticizing inconsistency because the chemistry is good. You are not abandoning your peace just to stay connected to someone who cannot meet you where you have worked so hard to arrive. That is not being difficult. That is growth. Knowing your value is not the issue. Having standards is not the issue. There is nothing inherently wrong with becoming more selective after learning what it costs to repeatedly betray yourself. But there is another question beneath all of that awareness, and it deserves more than a passing thought, because from the outside, discernment and self-protection can look almost identical. Both can make you selective. Both can make you unwilling to settle. Both can teach you to walk away faster than you once did. The difference usually does not reveal itself when someone is obviously wrong for you. The difference shows up when someone is actually right enough to make closeness possible. That is where things get interesting. If someone meets your standards and your internal response is relief, curiosity and a genuine willingness to be known, your standards are probably doing exactly what they were designed to do. They are filtering for alignment. But if someone meets your standards and your nervous system responds the same way it does when someone is clearly unavailable—searching for flaws, anticipating disappointment, emotionally backing toward the nearest exit before anything has actually happened—then we may no longer be talking only about standards. We may be talking about a wall. A beautifully constructed, spiritually articulate, psychologically informed wall, perhaps. But a wall nonetheless. And that does not invalidate your healing. This is where spiritual awareness can become tricky. Awareness can give us extraordinary clarity about what we want without automatically giving us the capacity to receive it. We can understand our patterns intellectually and still become activated when intimacy asks us to behave differently. Being deeply known is vulnerable. Being seen by someone who is emotionally capable of seeing you is vulnerable. And sometimes the person who is safe enough

See SPIRITUALLY AWARE Page B-2

PHOTOS: Monica Morgan

Black Business, Government Leaders Honored at

Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40: YOUNG GIFTED & BLACK

By Sam Robinson SENIOR REPORTER

Black business and government leaders across Metro Detroit were honored Thursday night as part of Michigan Chronicle’s 2026 Young Gifted & Black celebration. The annual event honors a generation of leaders shaping the future of Southeast Michigan. Real Times Media President Cathy Nedd and WDIV host Jay Scott Smith served as the hosts Thursday evening at the Harmony Club in Paradise Valley downtown Detroit. The area has returned as a hotspot of Black business. The event celebrated the honorees achievements and inducted the group into a network of alumni. Special recognitions included Evette Hollis, the vice president and chief customer officer at DTE received the “corporate excellence” award. She’s the youngest executive to be named a corporate officer at DTE Energy, steering the company’s community facing initiatives, including employee volunteerism, community transformation efforts and philanthropic investments through the DTE Energy Foundation. David Bowser, Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield’s chief of staff, received the “community impact” award. “For me, it’s never been about a title,” Bowser said. “It’s never been about a position because those things are finite, those things are limited. But when you know your why, when you know what impact that you want to have on a community the possibilities become absolutely endless.” Bowser’s background in public health has helped shaped his work for the city focusing on building partnerships, improving program efficiency and developing equitable policies. State Rep. Donavan McKinney, D-Detroit, took home the “trailblazer” award. “Each and every one of us are called to do something great,” McKinney said. “The question is, are we ready to tap into what God has put for us? Because sometimes our own worst enemy is ourselves. And every day I wake up, you’re going to get some issues. You’re going to go through trials and tribulations. We all do. You’re going

to second guess yourself along the way. I have to literally have you understand this: God Almighty is in control.” McKinney, a product of Detroit’s east side, recalled growing up poor, when his mother would tell him to count his blessings. “There’s somebody who isn’t able-bod-

ied, who doesn’t have their health, or a roof over their head, a car to drive, or food on the table, clothes on their back,” McKinney said. McKinney will be the first Black Congressperson from Detroit since U.S. Rep. Shri Thanedar ended the city’s 70-year

See 40 UNDER 40 Page B-2

Cocktails and Kickoff: 100 Proof Opens to the Public in Eastern Market By Miss AJ Williams Eastern Market in Detroit is adding a new place for cocktails, gatherings, and Lions game-day excitement. Detroit City Distillery has expanded 100 Proof, its 100-seat bar and event space next to the historic Whiskey Factory. The venue is now open to the public Monday through Saturday, with special Detroit Lions events planned for Sundays. 100 Proof previously hosted mostly Detroit City Distillery events and private gatherings. Now, visitors can enjoy the distillery’s local spirits and cocktails throughout the week. This expansion comes as Detroit enters the busy fall season, when Eastern Market and Lions football draw big crowds. “Opening 100 Proof to the public just made sense as we head into the extremely busy fall season,” said J.P. Jerome, founder and master distiller of Detroit City Distillery. “This gives people more opportunities to enjoy the spirits, cocktails and experiences we create right here in Detroit.” With the new schedule, 100 Proof is open Monday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday summer hours are

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and may change. On Sundays, Detroit City Distillery will host watch parties for away games and tailgate events for home games, celebrating the city’s love of Lions football. The exact times for Sunday events will be announced later. This gives football fans another place to gather on game day and adds to Detroit’s craft cocktail scene. With Ford Field nearby and Eastern Market already popular for tailgating, 100 Proof is now part of the city’s lively Sunday traditions. Besides its regular hours and football events, 100 Proof will still be available for private bookings and special Detroit City Distillery events. Located at 1000 Gratiot Avenue in Detroit, the venue lets visitors experience the distillery beyond just the drinks. It pairs local spirits with the lively social atmosphere that makes Eastern Market a favorite gathering spot. For Detroit City Distillery, welcoming more people is a chance to make 100 Proof more than just an event space. This fall, it could become a place where craft cocktails, local spirits, and Detroit’s game-day spirit come together.

Page B-2 | September 2-8, 2026 | michiganchronicle.com

Spiritually Aware From page B-1

40 Under 40 From page B-1

stretch of Black representation in 2022. He was able to unite progressive and moderate factions within the Democratic Party in his successful primary campaign. “I hope tonight is not the culmination of what we have achieved. I hope it’s the beginning of what we can build together,” said Jaren Brown, assistant VP, marketing & communications at SMART. Brown was selected as the president of the 2026 class. Honorees said they were glad to be recognized, but more important was the work.

Honorees ranged from executives, staffers and lawmakers representing the next generation of Black professional leaders. “I think sometimes you can do what you do for accolades, the accolades are good, but when you do it from your heart and you feel like it’s a purpose of yours, having that reward or award is just an extra boost to get you to keep doing what you’re doing,” said Rhonda Evans, the marketing director at nonprofit Life Remodeled. The nonprofit is behind Durfee Innovation Center and is currently working to bring life to the former Dominican High School on Whittier Avenue. The organization is behind community-driven neighborhood redevelopment projects.

to stay will stir up more discomfort than the person whose inconsistency you already know how to navigate. Discernment is one skill. Vulnerability is another. You can become masterful at identifying what is not for you while remaining quietly uncomfortable with what actually might be. And sometimes avoidance learns the language of healing so well that it sounds exactly like readiness. That is why the real question is not whether your standards are too high. They probably are not. The better question is: What happens inside of you when someone actually meets them? Not what you tell your friends. Not what you write in your journal. Not what your spiritually evolved vocabulary says should happen. What happens in your body? Because fear rarely walks into the room introducing itself as fear. Sometimes it looks like irritation. He says something simple and sincere about himself and, for reasons you cannot immediately explain, you feel yourself pulling away. He is consistent and somehow that consistency feels boring before you have allowed it enough time to feel safe. He asks a thoughtful follow-up question and actually waits for the answer, and suddenly you want to change the subject. Or perhaps your mind starts doing what it has become very good at doing: gathering evidence. He said this. He did that. That could become a problem later. Maybe we are not compatible after all.

From the outside, it can look like your standards are doing their job. Internally, something else may be happening. You may be searching for an exit at the exact moment intimacy is asking you to remain present. And presence does not mean overriding your intuition. It does not mean forcing attraction. It does not mean ignoring red flags, abandoning discernment or convincing yourself to stay somewhere your spirit is clearly telling you to leave. It simply means noticing the urge to leave before automatically obeying it. Notice when you begin searching for a flaw at the same moment you recognize genuine compatibility. Notice when someone offers you steadiness and your first instinct is to distrust it. Notice when being seen makes you want to disappear. Then ask yourself, quietly and without judgment: Is this about him, or is this about what this moment is asking of me? That pause is the practice. Not another framework. Not another healing assignment. Just the willingness to stay present long enough to distinguish discernment from defense. Sometimes growth looks like walking away. And sometimes growth looks like realizing you no longer have to. AJ Williams is a Spiritual Wellness Architect and Educator and the Managing Editor of the Michigan Chronicle. A thought leader at the intersection of spirituality, astrology, psychology, and identity evolution, she founded Sunday Communion, a quarterly live transformation experience held in Detroit. The Inner Architecture is her editorial column on the work of becoming.

The 2026 40 Under 40 Class is: Dr. Micah Aaron, PHD, MPH. Assistant Professor, Tenure Track, School of Public Health, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Myles Baker, Senior Attorney, Labor and Employment, DTE Energy. Joique Bell, II, Founder, Parlay Detroit, U Charge Up, and Joique Bell Charity. Latrell Bell, Major Gifts Officer, Michigan Humane Monique Hutcherson Benoit, Director, Brand Building & Strategic Initiatives Ulta Beauty Jaren Roberts-Brown, M.A., Assistant Vice President, Marketing & Communications Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART). Keith Butler, District 5 Manager, City of DetroitMayor’s Office Jonaz Byrd, Impact Director, City Year Detroit Anthony Chambers, North America Lead-AI Infrastructure Strategy and Partnerships, Google. Brandon Davis, President/Owner, Davis Insurance Group Agency Briaunna Durhal, Associate, Jones Day Brianna Eccleston, Director, Public Health Division, Wayne County Department of Health, Human & Veteran Services. Rhonda Evans, Marketing Director, Life Remolded. Erica George, Deputy Director, Cass Community Social Services. Joaquin Gouch, Financial Advisor, Merrill Lynch. Bianca Hardy, Project Manager, Office of Communications, Detroit Public Schools Community District. Antwuan Hawkins, Attorney/Owner & Broker, Levine Benjamine Law Firm, Five Star Luxury Realty. Chris Jackson, City Councilman, City of Pontiac. Lynda Jackson, Recording Secretary, UAW Local 7 Dr. Victoria King, The Tax Gurus & Easy Tax Solutions. Belvin Liles, III, Principal, Invest Detroit Ventures Ashley Nicole McCullough, Master of Urban Planning, Development Manager, Bedrock Detroit Mesh McFerrin, Operations Manager, LM Manufacturing. Dr. Randall McPherson, Family Medicine Physician, Oak Street Health Amber Mitchell, Curator, Black History, The Henry Ford Tracy Lynn Pearson, Communications Officer, The Kresge Foundation Jermaine Peguese, Special Projects Manager, NAACP Detroit Branch Kayla Perry, Marketing & Communications Manager, Detroit Area Agency on Aging Tamarah Riley, Engineering Director, Consultant, Whirlpool, Stellantis, General Motors, and Founder and Investor of Riley Real Estate. Victor Robinson, Senior Director of External Partnerships and Community Engagement, Urban Alliance. Stevon Scott, Director of Corporate & Community Affairs, River Rouge School District. Marcel Smith, Operator/Owner, Chick-fil-A, Lincoln Park. Dorothy “Dee” Smith, Director of Strategy & Partnerships, Teen HYPE. Damiana Sorrell, Chief Program Officer, Girl Scouts of SE Michigan Dr. Kimberly Stokes Mason, PHD, Counseling Psychologist, University of Michigan-Dearborn Evangeline Trice, Athletic Director, Detroit Public Schools Community District. Christina Ware, Founder and Chief Ecosystem Architect, Gapbridge Strategies. Kyra Watts, Principal Management Engineer, Henry Ford Health. Tyrone Williams, Plant Manager, Rawsonville Components Plants, Ford Motor. Tyrone Winfrey, Co-Founder, CIVIC. Sam can be reached at srobinson@michronicle.com.

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Cass Tech Alumna Christen Devani Elliott Turns Bronze Into National Gold at NAACP ACT-SO Competition By Jasmine West A year ago, Christen Devani Elliott left the NAACP ACT-SO competition with a bronze medal and disappointment. She could have stopped there. Instead, the Cass Technical High School alumna returned to her craft, worked harder on her choreography, and decided to compete again. This year, that persistence took her from Detroit to the national stage, where she earned a NAACP ACT-SO national gold medal in dance. “It was an amazing experience,” Elliott said. “I definitely enjoyed it more than anything.” Elliott, a recent Cass Tech graduate who will attend Western Michigan University, said last year’s result became motivation. “I auditioned last year and I ended up getting bronze, which meant that I couldn’t go to nationals, which was a little disappointing,” she said. “But, you know, we always have to try again.” This time, Elliott poured more work into her choreography, earned gold at the local level and advanced to nationals. ACT-SO, short for the Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics, is the NAACP’s year-round achievement program for high school students. It gives young people opportunities to develop and showcase their talents across the arts, humanities, business and STEM fields. For Elliott, reaching nationals meant stepping into a larger arena alongside talented Black students from across the country. “Every day, there were different competitions that you had to attend, and then we had to practice back to back,” she said. “So it was nerve-wracking.” But what stayed with her most was seeing other young people excelling in the things they loved. “Being able to compete and seeing so many other strong dancers and strong Black people just doing things that they love, it was very rewarding,” Elliott said. Her mother, Latoya Thomas Latham, watched the journey from bronze to gold firsthand. Thomas Latham said last year’s result was disappointing at first, but the timing ultimately worked out. Elliott was already preparing to travel to Los Angeles that summer to dance with Debbie Allen. When Elliott returned to ACT-SO during her senior year, however, her mother saw how much work she put into earning another opportunity. “To see Christen work so hard in her senior year and then getting ready to head to college, and she gets this high honor for her talent, was really amazing,” Thomas Latham said.

Christen Devani Elliott Elliott’s national experience extended beyond the competition. Her mother said she also auditioned for the national show and performed several times. For Thomas Latham, watching her daughter perform was one source of pride. Seeing the larger collection of Black and brown youth talent was another. “It was just an experience I’ve never had before,” she said. “To go to Chicago and see so many Black and brown youth with so much different talent.” That visibility matters to both mother and daughter. Elliott said she wants more Detroit students to know programs like ACT-SO exist, particularly young people whose talents may extend beyond traditional academics. Students can compete in areas including dance, music, science, technology, writing, public speaking, business and filmmaking. “You get to be around other people who do the same thing that you love, and you get

to learn from like-minded students,” Elliott said. Her development as a dancer was also shaped by her four years at Cass Tech. Elliott said the school exposed her to opportunities that strengthened her confidence and allowed her to learn from visiting artists and instructors. “We get so many opportunities, especially at my school, because our principal fights to give us experiences and have people come in,” she said. Through dance workshops at Cass Tech, Elliott said she performed and learned choreography from teachers who came from across the world. But she said one of Cass Tech’s greatest influences was being surrounded by students who expected excellence from themselves. “Being at a school like Cass, you’re surrounded by people who are always working

hard and always want to be the best at what they do,” Elliott said. That environment, she said, helped her become more confident as a young Black woman. “I think that DPSCD has encouraged me to be confident and to be strong-willed,” she said. Thomas Latham understands that experience from another generation. She is also a Detroit Public Schools graduate, having attended Osborn High School. She said students today have opportunities that were not as readily available when she was in school. “There weren’t as many opportunities for us then as it is now for the youth,” she said. Thomas Latham now returns to Osborn to support students and said she appreciates seeing schools recognize that achievement can take many forms. “I think that’s so important for DPSCD schools to meet students where they are,” she said, “and not just with academics, those who are more so into the arts as well.” Now, Elliott is preparing to carry what she learned in Detroit into college. At Western Michigan University, she plans to double major in dance and kinesiology. “I didn’t feel as if dance was something that I could give up,” Elliott said. “It’s been a passion of mine since I was a child.” Her long-term goal is to pursue physical therapy, combining her understanding of movement with a desire to help dancers and other athletes recover from injuries. “Dance is always going to be a part of me, and I want to be able to help other athletes and other dancers get through pain and be able to recover from things like injuries,” Elliott said. Before beginning that next chapter, she wants other Detroit students to know they should put themselves in rooms where their talent can be seen. She encourages students interested in ACT-SO to follow the Detroit Branch NAACP and watch for information about future competition cycles. Her mother echoed that call, particularly for young people across Detroit whose gifts may still be going unnoticed. “There are so many different areas and opportunities,” Thomas Latham said. “It needs to be done, especially in the city of Detroit because we have so many that are unseen and they need to be seen.” Christen Elliott entered ACT-SO determined to improve on bronze. She left the national stage with gold and a message for the next young Detroiter wondering whether to try: there is value in showing up, finding your community, and giving yourself another shot.

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M FEATURE IMPACT

ost people don’t set out to ignore their health. It usually slips down the list somewhere between the morning alarm and the last email of the day. Breakfast gets rushed or skipped. Exercise is postponed until tomorrow. Sleep is cut short to catch up on everything else. By the end of the week, healthy intentions are still there, but the follow-through feels harder than expected. For many, the challenge is not motivation but finding habits that fit into real life. Small, repeatable choices around sleep, exercise, nutrition, mental well-being and social connection can support how the body and mind function over time.

Sleep Well

Sleep is essential for physical recovery, mental focus and emotional balance, but it’s often the first habit to slip when schedules get busy. Establishing a regular bedtime routine helps signal when it’s time to rest. Limiting screen exposure in the evening, keeping sleep and wake times consistent and creating a dark, quiet sleep environment can support more restorative sleep. Over time, better sleep contributes to improved mood, focus and overall heart health.

Exercise in Manageable Ways

Exercise often falls into the same trap as sleep. When schedules get full, it becomes something to get back to rather than something that fits into the day as it unfolds. A missed workout can quickly turn into a missed week, even for people who value staying active. Regular movement supports heart health, muscle strength and overall energy, but it doesn’t need to be allor-nothing. Short periods of activity spread throughout the day can still make a difference, especially when long stretches of sitting are the default. Walking between meetings, stretching in the morning or adding light strength exercises at home are simple ways to stay active without blocking out extra time.

Eat Nutritiously

Food decisions often happen on autopilot as meals are squeezed into busy schedules and long days, making nutrition one of the most influential daily habits. Meals do more than provide fuel. When built around nutrient-rich foods, they support muscle health, brain health and heart health. An overall healthy eating pattern includes a variety of whole foods like fruits,

vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, helping the body keep up with everyday demands. Protein plays an important role in maintaining muscle and supporting daily movement, especially as people age. High-quality protein from foods, along with a balanced diet and regular exercise, can help support all the muscles in the body. Choosing protein sources that are easy to prepare and repeat supports consistency when schedules are full. As part of a balanced approach to healthy habits, nutrition guidance from the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good initiative, nationally sponsored by the Egg Nutrition Center, highlights how everyday food choices can support the body and brain over time. Eggs are an example of a high-quality protein and they fit easily into meals throughout the day. Eggs also deliver choline, a nutrient many Americans don’t get enough of. Choline is a critical nutrient, among others, for supporting brain development, memory and mood. Along with protein, choline helps support brain health, making it an important consideration across life stages. According to the American Heart Association, healthy people can include one egg daily, up to seven eggs per week,

as part of a heart-healthy diet. For healthy older adults with normal cholesterol, two eggs per day can be included as part of a heart-healthy dietary pattern.

Mind Your Mental Well-Being

The way people eat, sleep and move does not just affect the body. It also shapes how the brain responds to stress and daily demands. When routines feel rushed or inconsistent, mental wellbeing is often one of the first areas to feel the strain. Ongoing stress can interfere with focus, sleep and eating habits, making it harder to maintain healthy routines. Simple practices like deep breathing, mindfulness or stepping away from screens for a few minutes can help reduce tension and restore attention. Making time for rest and reflection, and setting realistic expectations, can also support emotional balance. What supports the brain often supports the heart as well, reinforcing the value of caring for mental and physical health together.

Socialize and Stay Connected Mental well-being is shaped by both daily routines and relationships. When

life feels busy or stressful, social connection is often the first thing to get pushed aside, even though it plays an important role in emotional health. Staying connected doesn’t require packed calendars or constant interaction. Shared meals, short conversations or a quick check-in with a friend or family member can help maintain a sense of connection.

Build Habits That Fit Real Life

Healthy routines are more likely to last when they fit into the rhythm of everyday life rather than compete with it. Big changes can feel motivating at first, but it is often the small, repeatable choices that quietly shape how people feel over time. Choosing foods that are easy to prepare, finding enjoyable ways to exercise and protecting time for sleep can make healthy habits feel more realistic. When routines are built around what is already happening during a typical day, they are easier to return to even when schedules get busy. For more information and educational resources on nutrition and healthy living, visit Heart.org.

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is michiganchronicle.com | September 2-8, 2026 | Page B-5 soliciting RFQs for Pre-Employment, ANNOUNCEMENTS PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED Drug, and Alcohol Screenings Control No. 23-3659. RFQ forms may be obtained beginning October 19, 2022, The Detroit Public Schools Community District is seeking from qualified contractors for roof replacement services at several http://www.mitn.info. RFQs are District locations under RFP 27-0001 Facility Master Plan Series 6 Roof Replacements. due by 3:00 PM ET, November 11, 2022 There will be a pre-bid meeting for this RFP hosted virtually on

Classifieds

August 31, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. The conference can be viewed using the following link: https://tinyurl.com/5dh4by9m Call-In: +1 (313) 462-2305 Conference ID: 999 927 876# There will be non-mandatory walkthroughs for each location that will take place on September 1, 2026. • Golightly Educational Center, at 8:30 a.m., located at 5536 St. Antoine St., Detroit, MI 48202. • Davison Elementary, at 10:00 a.m., located at 2800 E. Davison St, Detroit, MI 48212. • Wayne Elementary, at 11:30 a.m., located at 10633 Courville St., Detroit, MI 48224 • Burton International Academy, at 1:00 p.m., located at 2001 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Detroit, MI 48208 • Pasteur Elementary, at 2:30 p.m., located at 19811 Stoepel St., Detroit, MI 48221 Proposals are due electronically by 12:00 p.m. on September 15, 2026. Late bids will not be accepted.

Diagnostics & Data Systems Engineer Positions offered by Ford Motor Company (Dearborn, Michigan). Note, this is a hybrid position whereby the employee will work both from home and from the aforementioned worksite. Hence, the employee must live within a reasonable commuting distance from the worksite. Engineer and manage complex algorithms designed to automatically analyze vehicle data streams, critical for the advanced identification, prediction, and root cause analysis of systemic issues within the vehicle's integrated electronic and software systems. EOE. Apply online: careers.ford.com

Eng Spec, VRT Co-Lead / Quality Process Engineer Positions offered by Ford Motor Company (Wayne, Michigan). Support VRT with statistical process control and data analysis. Participate with VRT team to conduct a periodic job observation. EOE. Apply online: careers.ford.com

Classifieds ANNOUNCEMENTS

Global REQUEST Contact Center FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) Reporting CONSULTANT and Analytics – CUSTOMER Manager SERVICE AND

SHOPPER SURVEY Positions offered bySECRET Ford Motor Company DEVELOPMENT, DISTRIBUTION AND ANALYSIS (Allen Park, Michigan). Note, this is a October 2022 hybrid position whereby the employee will Detroit Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) is seeking work bothproposals from forhome from the a qualifiedand consultant to work with Detroit LISC to create, distribute and analyze customer service surveys to gather aforementioned worksite. information about the servicesHence, of the Detroit the at Work One Stop Thelive findings from the surveys will be analyzed and put employeeSystem. must within a reasonable into interim and final reports to be submitted to LISC. commuting distance from the worksite. Specifically, Detroit LISC is seeking those with proven experience in the following areas: Manage Global Contact Center Operations Evaluation Analysisprioritize, data and ✓analytics reporting,✓ and ✓ Report Development Surveystreamline Creation, enhance,✓and reporting Distribution and Collection ✓ Program Design requirements. EOE. Apply online: Visit https://www.lisc.org/detroit/about-us/careers/ to downcareers.ford.com load full RFP. Responses to this RFP are due Friday, October 21

Production Team Manager – Seat Structures New Boston, MI, Brose North America. Plan, manage, &dlvr lean prod. operations. to annually produce high performance seat structures for OEM/Tier I customer seating structures apps by supervising/leading large team of engrs, technicians, prod. supvs, &prod. operators; managing E2E industrialization &launch activities; &by exercising key engrg control &responsibility for each cmpt &sys prod. line, incl. leading personnel planning &prod. time anlyss; corrective actions coordination; work instructions revisions &updates; qlty containment &corrective process plans; process &machinery capability validations; &audits relating to IATF 16949 QMS. Redirect resources to dvlp solutions that eliminate process errors. Manage &assure bus. plan, cust. &intl. project milestones aligned w/ timelines, prod. volume, profit objectives/budgets, cost/performance targets, Methods-Time Measurement, manpower, qlty, cust. KPIs, internal/cust. qlty &environmental reqmts. Bachelor, Mechanical, Electrical, michiganchronicle.com | October 19-25, 2022 | Page B-5 Electronics &Commn., or Industrial Engrg, or related. 60ANNOUNCEMENTS mos exp as Engr, Prod. Team Mgr ANNOUNCEMENTS or Supv, or Project Mgr or Supv, or related, exercising engrg control &responsibility for cmpt or sys prod. line incl. leading personnel Detroit People Mover/Detroit Transportation Corporation planning &prod. time Stanlyss; corrective 535 Griswold Ste # 400 qlty containment actions coordination; MI 48226 PUBLIC NOTICE: RTA OF SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN &corrective Detroit, process plans; &process PROPOSED DBE GOALS &machinery capability validations, or related. For FY 2023 – FY2025 BID # 07-01-2022 REBID E-mail resume to Jobs@brose.com The Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan (RTA) The Detroit Transportation Corporation Office of Contracting has established a goal of 8.20% for its Disadvantaged Business (Ref#1126-101). and Procurement requests proposals from qualified firms

The Detroit Public Schools Community A virtual Public Opening will occur at 12:00 p.m. on is seeking proposals for Architecture September 15, 2026, and can be viewed using theDistrict below link: https://tinyurl.com/ycy6uc6u and Engineering Services for Facility Master Call-In: +1 (313) 462-2305 Conference ID: 364 294 917# Series 1 under RFP 23-0111. This project is subject to Michigan State PrevailingPlan Wage Laws (Michigan Public Act 10 of 2023) and the contractor must pay prevailing wages and fringe benefits to all its contractors, subcontractors, and construction mechanics working on the project in accordance with Michigan Public Act 10 of 2023. All bids must be accompanied by a sworn and notarized statement disclosing any familial relationship that exists between the submitting company and any employee of DPSCD. DPSCD shall not accept a bid that does not include this sworn and notarized disclosure statement. If you have questions, please contact the Procurement Department at (313) 873-6531.

to provide CCTV and network upgrades. This includes modernization efforts for the CCTV system, Public Address (PA) system, Variable Message Signs (VMS), and Wired Backbone Network system, at theSoftware MCF, at each DPM station, and at Engineer, substations described herein.

Published 3 colsEvery x 6.75Wednesday inches

REQUEST FOR QUOTES

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is soliciting RFQs for Pre-Employment, Drug, and Alcohol Screenings Control No. 23-3659. RFQ forms may be obtained beginning October 19, 2022, from http://www.mitn.info. RFQs are due by 3:00 PM ET, November 11, 2022

Enterprises (DBE) Program for fiscal years 2023 through FY 2025. This goal will be attained through 5.31% from race neutral participation and 2.89% from race-conscious measures which reflects the relative availability of DBEs to participate in contracts and procurements projected by the RTA.

our website Michigan Chronicle for more Classifieds classified ads.

Systems The proposed goal and its methodology have been developed All bids must bePlatform received by the Detroit Transportation(SDV/FNV) Corporation in accordance with the Federal Transit Administration’s via Bidnet/MITN on or before 5:00 p.m. (EST) November 7, 2022. regulations 49 CFR Part 26. A pre-bid site visit will offered be determinedby at a later date, ifMotor necessary.Company Positions Ford

goal and the methodology used to develop it are available Proposals can beMichigan). accessed on the Bidnet Directthis is a The (Dearborn, Note, hybrid for inspection from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through www.bidnetdirect.com//detroit-transportation-corporation Friday at RTA’s offices located at 1001 Woodward Avenue, Suite position whereby the employee will work 1400, Detroit, Michigan. These materials will be available for 30 Mike Anderson both from home and from the days following the date of this notice.

A virtual Pre-Proposal Conference will occur at 10:00 a.m. October 21, 2022. and should be emailed to kgallick@lisc.org. LISC is committed to working with Small Business Enterprises (SBEs), Minority-Owned Business Enterprises (MBEs), and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (WBEs). LISC encourages submissions from SBEs, MBEs, and WBEs.

Find Your Dream Job Please visit in the

Procurement Manager aforementioned worksite. Hence, theThe RTA will accept comments on the goal for 45 days from the mandersonjr@thepeoplemover.com date of this notice. Inquiries may be directed to the following:

employee must live within a reasonable RTA of Southeast Michigan commuting distance from the worksite. 1001 Woodward Avenue, Suite 1400 Detroit, Michigan 48226 Design and Build Data Pipelines: Architect, develop, and maintain scalable data Or e-mail to: info@rtamichigan.org Detroit People Mover/Detroit Transportation Corporation 535 Griswold St pipelines and microservices that support Ste # 400 PUBLIC NOTICE Detroit, MI 48226 real-time and batch processing on GCP.ACCURACY TEST OF VOTING EQUIPMENT EOE. Apply online: careers.ford.com To the qualified electors of the City of Highland Park, BID # 08-8-2022 REBID

in Print & Online

Call-In#: 1 313-462-2305 Conference ID: 944 369 237# https://tinyurl.com/yfm35pw5

Wayne County, State of Michigan: Notice is hereby given,

The Detroit Transportation Corporation Office of Contracting that a Public Accuracy Test for the electronic equipment and Procurement requests proposals from qualified Contracthat will be used for the General Election being held on tor/Firm(s) to provide annual geometry measurements of the Tuesday, November 8, 2022 is scheduled for Tuesday, LIM rail height, power rail tolerances, running rail height and SwaaP Controls Engineer October 25, 2022, at 2:00 p.n. in the City Clerk’s training track gauge. room (lower level) located: The initial information and subsequent trending informationhas on an Nexteer Automotive Corporation Robert B. Blackwell Municipal Complex the rate of change of the measured parameters of the Detroit opening for SwaaP Controls Engineer in People Mover (DPM) track will be reviewed and utilized as part 12050 Woodward Ave. of Auburn the existing detailed plan to ensure long Hills,maintenance MI. Responsible forterm developing Highland Park, MI 48203 safety and availability to the riding public. the Predictive information algorithm based on The Public Accuracy Test is conducted to demonstrate All bids must be received by the Detroit Transportation Corporation data from5:00 other vehicles. Hybrid that the computer program used to tabulate the votes viaCloud Bidnet/MITN on or before p.m. (EST) November 7, 2022. meets the requirements of A position, pre-bid site visitmust is scheduled for Wednesday, October 25, live in reasonable commutingcast at the election Michigan election law. 2022 at 10:00 a.m. (EST). distance to office address, no travel req'd. For Proposals can be accessed on the Bidnet Direct BRENDA GREEN full job description and to apply, use job www.bidnetdirect.com//detroit-transportation-corporation CITY CLERK

Please visitPlease our visit The due date for Proposals is website website forourmore for more MICHIGAN CHRONICLENovember 10,classified ads. classified 2022 atads. 12:00 p.m. The Detroit Public Schools Community District is seeking proposals for Architecture and Engineering Services for Facility Master Plan Series 1 under RFP 23-0111. A virtual Pre-Proposal Conference will occur at 10:00 a.m. October 21, 2022.

313 963-8100

Call-In#: 1 313-462-2305 Conference ID: 944 369 237# https://tinyurl.com/yfm35pw5

reference number 55467 at

michiganchronicle.com | EQD www.michiganchronicle.com If you have questions, pleasehttps://jobs.nexteer.com/ contact the Mike Anderson Procurement Manager mandersonjr@thepeoplemover.com

The due date for Proposals is November 10, 2022 at 12:00 p.m.

If you have questions, please contact the Procurement Department at (313) 873-6531.

Procurement Department at (313) 873-6531. www.michiganchronicle.com

CITY OF HIGHLAND PARK

www.michiganchronicle.com

www.michiganchronicle.com

Identifying Most Affordable HELPthe WANTED PROFESSIONAL H Beyond thePROFESSIONAL New Vehicles to Insure for 2026 Sticker Price PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED BSW Engineering Manager

Meritor Electric Vehicles LLC seeks a BSW Engineering Manager in Troy, Michigan. Note, this position does not require travel. Duties include: Lead a team of SW engineers to develop base software; MCAL, service layers, AUTOSAR interfaces, and complex device drivers in new ECU’s for electrified drivetrain systems; Develop software requirements specification (SRS) and design verification plans; among other duties. Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Embedded Systems, or Computer Engineering and seven years of experience in the job offered or related. Apply to job reference number 220000KW at: meritor.jobs.net/search

PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Staff Design Release Engineer - Wiring

EXPERIENCED HAIR STYLIST NEEDED

Warren, MI, General Motors. Engineer, design, develop, &release conventional ICE, BEV &AV psngr vehicles electrical wire routing &packaging syss, &multi-branch wiring harnesses, incl. wire, terminals, connectors, coverings &attachments, using Tc Vismockup, ECM, ECR, &Auros tools. Design &release electrical wire routing &packaging syss to ensure proper functioning of electrical modules such as OnStar, LRR, cybersecurity syss, &other required vehicle electrical syss for AV. Ensure that electrical harness routings meet U.S. FMVSS. Apply GD&T, CAE, DFM/A, DFMEA, DRBTR, Red X, DFSS processes to design &validate wiring harness branch points for multi-branch harnesses, pin level, cavities, size, &thermal resistance specs &rqrmnts. Bachelor, Electrical or Automotive Engineering, or related. 60 mos exp as Engineer, engineering, releasing for production, &continuously improving conventional psngr vehicle &BEV electrical wire routing &packaging syss, &multi-branch wiring harnesses, using Tc VisMockup tool, or related. Mail resume to Ref#3882, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

Part-time position

Must be able to style all hair textures but, preferably Black Hair textures.

Rania’s Hair Salon

inside Royal Oak Manor Co-op Apts., A Senior apartment building located at 606 Williams St., Royal Oak, MI 48067. Applications are available in the Royal Oak Manor office Mon-Fri from 9:00-12:00 pm. Call (586) 610-9203 with questions and to schedule interview. Please bring examples of your work. We are hoping to fill the position soon.

BSW Engineering Manager Senior Digital Sculptor

Warren, MI, General Motors. Plan &perform advanced surfacing concepts &development of Class A surface of full vehicle exterior syss. Interpret &define design intent of designer while collaborating w/ engineering, packaging, human factors, &tooling teams. Design &develop 3D Class A surfaces of ICE, diesel, BEV &AV full vehicle psgr car, truck &SUV exterior cmpnts incl. front &rear fascias, grills, head/taillamps, doors, fenders, ABCD pillars, skid plates, liftgates, truck beds &detailed exterior cmpnts incl. door handles, mirrors, lamp internals &exhaust tips, using Autodesk Alias AutoStudio, Autodesk Maya, NX &VRED tools, for U.S., global &emerging markets. Interpret, define, conceptualize &execute unique solutions to technical challenges &provide creative proposals to capture design intent from initial concept thru mass production achieved in various stages according to GVDP, while collaborating with engrg, packaging, human factors, &tooling teams to assure minimum radii/draft, tooling &safety reqrmnts in compliance w/ U.S., European &China standards. Bachelor, Transportation or Industrial Design. 60 mos exp as Digital Sculptor, Digital Modeler, or related, designing or developing 3D Class A surfaces of full vehicle psgr vehicle exterior cmpnts incl. fascias, grills, head/taillamps, doors, fenders, ABCD pillars, &liftgates, using Alias AutoStudio, NX &VRED tools, for U.S., global &emerging markets, or related. Mail resume to Ref#1827-201, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

F

Senior Design Release Engineer – Fuel Systems (FS) & Evaporative Emission Control (EEC) System

PROCLAMATION

PROCLAMATION DECLARATION OF NON-CITIZEN NATIONALITY Section 302 of Public Law 94-241 I DeIamond Carpre Henson, being duly affirmed [sworn], hereby declare my intention to be a national but not a citizen of the United States. Notice: all executive and judicial officers both of the United States and of the several States Section 1091 of Title 18, United States Code, prohibits genocide whether committed in time of peace or time of war. Genocide is defined in section 1091 and includes violent attacks with the specific intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group. There is Federal jurisdiction if the offense is committed within the United States. There is also Federal extraterritorial jurisdiction when the offender is a national of the United States FORM: LPN #RE345528665US

Meritor Electric Vehicles LLC seeks a BSW or most households, buying a new vehicle is one of the largest Engineering Manager in Troy, Michigan. Note, financial decisions they’ll make. The purchase price is only the beginning, however. Fuel, maintenance, depreciation and this position insurance all contribute to the total cost of ownership, making does not require travel. Duties affordability a consideration that extends well beyond the showroom. include: Lead a team of SW engineers to develop To help consumers make more informed purchasing decisions, Mercury Insurance recently released its annual rankings the most baseofsoftware; MCAL, service layers, AUTOSAR affordable new 2026 model year vehicles to insure, identifying the top-performing SUV, truck, sedan and electric orinterfaces, hybrid vehicles in and complex device drivers in new four of today’s most popular categories. ECU’s for electrified drivetrain systems; Develop “Consumers naturally compare purchase price, fuel economy, safety ratings and technology features before buying a vehicle,” software requirements specification (SRS) and said Chong Gao, director of research and development for Mercury Insurance. “Insurance is one of the few ownership costs drivers can design verification plans; among other duties. estimate before making a purchase. Factoring it into the decision gives consumers a more complete picture of what thatBachelor’s vehicle is likely to degree in Electrical Engineering, cost over the years they own it.” While every driver’s premium is unique, this year’s rankings alsoScience, Embedded Systems, or Computer revealed a broader trend: Practical, mainstream vehicles continue to Engineering and seven years of offer some of the strongest long-term insurance Computer value. “Vehicles designed for everyday drivers often strike the best experience balance between safety, repairability and replacement costs,” Gao in the job offered or related. said. “That’s reflected in this year’s rankings, where familiar Apply tomodels job reference number 220000KW at: from manufacturers like Hyundai, Chevrolet, Honda, Kia and Volkswagen rose to the top. It reinforces the idea that choosing a meritor.jobs.net/search FEATURE IMPACT

Vehicle Validation Engineer

Warren, MI, General Motors. Engineer, design, &develop FS &EEC syss, incl. fuel tanks/lines/ vapor transfer lines, emission control canisters, &filler pipes for psgr vehicles incl. Premium Luxury/Mid-Size Cars &Large psgr &Cargo Vans, &Incomplete truck) prgrms, according to vehicle program timing rqrmnts, from concept to production, &aligned to meet performance, safety (U.S. FMVSS), &strict technical &regional rqrmnts &standards, using NX, Tc, Tc Vismockup, ETAS INCA, &ECM tools. Conceptualize, design, validate &release engine FS &EEC sys cmpnts to meet SSTS of propulsion system projects. Benchmark critical emission control technologies &recommend fuel injection HW to meet emission EPA &UNECE regs. Master, Mechanical or Automotive Engrg. 36 mos exp as Engineer, developing &releasing evaporative emission canisters for OEM prgrms, from concept to production, &aligned to meet performance, safety (incl. U.S. FMVSS), &strict technical &regional rqrmnts &standards, using NX, Tc, &Tc Vismockup tools, or related. Mail resume to Ref#201, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

michiganchronicle.com DQE

Warren, MI, General Motors. Perform &execute electrical validation of BEVs in GVDP for Vehicle Motion Embedded Controls (VMEC), Body Electronics, Active Safety (AS), telematics, &infotainment. Review, analyze &coordinate the testing &modification of BEV system &cmpnt level SW for electrical validation of VMEC &AS syss incl. Long/Short Range Radars, Rear Vision/360/Driver monitoring cameras, antennas, Body & Vehicle Integration Control Modules, &features incl. Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Autonomous Driving Features, Emergency Braking, Collision Mitigation, Alerts, &related module &feature validation status plans for vehicle prgrms, using PQMS, NX, vSpy, Teamcenter (Tc), &ECM tools. Perform on time SW &HW validation of embedded module ECUs, thru design/production/SW iteration validations. Bachelor, Electrical, Computer, Mechatronics, or Mechanical Engrg. 12 mos exp as Engineer, testing or verifying embedded telematics &infotainment embedded ECUs, using Tc &vSpy tools, or related. Mail resume to Ref#407-1175, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482-C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

Senior Design Sculptor

practical vehicle can pay dividends well beyond the purchase price.”

A Cost You Can Plan For

Warren, MI, General Motors. Plan &perform advanced surfacing concepts &development of Class A surfaces of full vehicle exterior sys. Interpret &define design intent of designer while directly collaborating w/ engineering, packaging, human factors, &tooling teams. Design &develop 3D Class A surfaces of conventional ICE, diesel, BEV &AV full vehicle psngr car, truck &SUV exterior cmpnts incl. front &rear fascias, grills, headlamps, taillamps, doors, fenders, A,B,C &D pillars, skid plates, liftgates, truck beds &detailed exterior cmpnts incl. door handles, mirrors, lamp internals &exhaust tips, using Alias AutoStudio, Maya, NX &VRED tools, for U.S., global &emerging markets. Interpret, develop, &perform physical sculptures, &evaluate physical surfaces &digital sculptures in Alias (surfaces to mill), interpret sketches &drawings, &develop interior &exterior clay models of full vehicles (full-sized models) &cmpnts (and cmpnts in steel, carbon fiber, wax, low density foam (Renboard), rubber &wood) &scale models, working on 1-3 new concept psngr vehicles, facelifts &show cars at any one time. 36 mos exp as Sculptor or Designer, designing &developing 3D Class A surfaces of conventional &BEV full vehicle psngr vehicle exterior cmpnts incl. fascias, grills, lamps, doors, fenders, pillars, &liftgates, using AutoStudio, Maya, &VRED tools, for U.S., global &emerging markets, or related. Mail resume to Ref#455, GM Global Mobility, 300 Renaissance Center, MC:482C32-C66, Detroit, MI 48265.

Please visit our website for more classified ads. Senior Digital Sculptor

Unlike unexpected repairs or fluctuating fuel prices, insurance is a predictable ownership expense consumers can research before purchasing a vehicle. Comparing insurance costs alongside purchase price, fuel economy, maintenance expenses and expected repair costs can help www.michiganchronicle.com shoppers better understand the long-term financial commitment of Warren, MI, General Motors. Plan &perform advanced vehicle ownership.

Staff How Technology Can Design Release Help You Age in Place Warren, MI, General Motors.

(StatePoint) By 2030, almost a quarter of the American population will be over the age of 65, up from 16% in 2020, creating a situation that’s going to drive greater demand and greater pressure on the care industry. In addition to a larger workforce and more financial resources, new technologies also have the potential to help solve the problems created by this seismic demographic shift.

develop, &release convention vehicles electrical wire routing &multi-branch wiring harness connectors, coverings &attac Vismockup, ECM, ECR, &Aur &release electrical wire routin ensure proper functioning of e as OnStar, LRR, cybersecurit vehicle electrical syss for AV. harness routings meet U.S. F CAE, DFM/A, DFMEA, DRBT processes to design &validate points for multi-branch harnes size, &thermal resistance spe Electrical or Automotive Engin mos exp as Engineer, engine production, &continuously imp psngr vehicle &BEV electrica &packaging syss, &multi-bran using Tc VisMockup tool, or r Ref#3882, GM Global Mobilit Center, MC:482-C32-C66, De

According to experts, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are already among the key components of new technologies providing improved quality of life for those who want to continue living independently at home.

“While AI and ML have transformed other industries, adaptation has been slow in the care industry, but we’re working to change that,” explains Chia-Lin Simmons, chief executive officer of LogicMark, (NASDAQ: LGMK), which manufactures personal emergency response systems (PERS), health communications devices and remote care and activity monitoring technologies to create a Connected Care Platform, and recently incorporated two-way voice communication technology into its medical alert pendant. To help you live safely and comfortably in your home in the years to come, Simmons offers a few strategies for using the newest technology to your advantage: • PERS, also known as Medical Emergency Response Systems, allow you to call for help in an emergency by pushing a button. Wearable pendants – along with water-resistant wall-mounted devices and mobile solutions – can keep you protected in every room of your home by helping you instantly connect with loved ones and emergency personnel. Those offered by LogicMark use AI and ML for pattern recognition and fall detection, for an added layer of security. To learn more, visit logicmark.com.

• Automatic pill dispensers can help ensure you never miss a dose or take too much medication. Depending on your needs, you may need to look for a solution offering both visual and audio notifications, or one suited for those with limited dexterity.

• Motion-sensing lighting can make nocturnal trips to the bathroom – common in one’s golden years – much safer, helping to reduce the risk of dangerous trips and falls. Many lighting options plug directly into outlets, while others are battery-operated and can be installed anywhere. Be sure to include these fixtures in bedrooms, hallways and bathrooms.

“True independence must be accompanied by peace of mind for you, your family and your caregivers,” says Simmons. “By adopting new technologies, you can help create a virtual safety net, enabling you to stay at home while living in a safe environment and providing piece of mind to your loved ones.”

surfacing concepts &development of Class A surface SUVs: Factors Influencing Insurance 1. Hyundai Santa Fe of full vehicle exterior syss. Interpret Costs &define design 2. Chevrolet Blazer Insurance costs are influenced by many intent of designer while collaborating w/ engineering, 3. Honda Pilot factors, but repair complexity, parts 4. Kia Sportage Senior Design Rele availability, vehicle safety systems packaging, human factors, &tooling teams. Design 5. Honda Passport and historical claims experience all Fuel Systems (FS) &develop 3D Class A surfaces of ICE, diesel, BEV contribute to how a vehicle is insured. Trucks: Emission Control While advanced safety technology &AV full vehicle psgr car, truck &SUV exterior cmpnts 1. Chevrolet Colorado LT can help reduce accidents, vehicles 2. Chevrolet Silverado C3500 that are easier and less doors, expensive to incl. front &rear fascias, grills, head/taillamps, 3.Warren, Ford MaverickMI, and Ranger repair can also help improve long-term General Motors. 4. Hyundai Santa Cruz SE fenders, ABCD pillars, skid plates, liftgates, affordability. Amongtruck the considerations FS &EEC syss, incl Toyota Tundra CrewMax 5.&develop evaluate are: beds &detailed exterior cmpnts insurers incl. door handles, n Repair and replacement costs transfer lines, emission contro Sedans and Coupes: Historical claimsAutodesk experience mirrors, lamp internals &exhaust nntips, using Volkswagen R 1.for psgr Golf vehicles incl. Premium Vehicle safety features and crash 2. Acura Integra Alias AutoStudio, Autodesk Maya, performance NX &VRED tools, psgr &Cargo Vans, &I 3.&Large Honda Prelude n Theft frequency for U.S., global &emerging markets. Interpret, define, n Availability and cost of replacement 4.prgrms, Kia K4 according to vehicle p parts 5. Mazda3 conceptualize &execute unique solutions to technical from concept to production, & n Vehicle performance characteristics Electric and Hybrids: challenges &provide creative proposals to capture performance, safety (U.S. FM 1. Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid The Most Affordable Vehicles design intent from initial concepttothru mass production &standards 2.&regional Chevrolet Blazerrqrmnts EV Insure 3. Kia Sportage Hybrid achieved in various stages according GVDP, while This year’sto rankings show practical, Vismockup, ETAS INCA, &EC 4. Ford Escape Hybrid mainstream vehicles continue to offer collaborating with engrg, packaging, human factors, &release eng 5.design, Honda CR-Vvalidate Hybrid some of the strongest insurance value. The top spot in both the SUVtooling and electric and &tooling teams to assure minimum radii/draft, cmpnts to meet SSTS of prop “The smartest vehicle purchase isn’t hybrid categories was claimed by Hyundai always the one with the lowest stickeremission c Benchmark critical &safety reqrmnts in compliancewhile w/ Chevrolet U.S., European led the truck category and price,” Gao said. “It’s the one that delivers Volkswagen topped the sedan rankings. &recommend fuel injection HW &China standards. Bachelor, Transportation orrankings were the best overall value over time. Comparing Rounding out Mercury’s insurance before buying gives consumers several familiar nameplates recognized &UNECE regs. Master, Mech Industrial Design. 60 mos exp as Digital Sculptor, another tool to make a more informed for balancing insurance affordability with Engrg. 36 mos exp as Engine everyday value. decision.” Digital Modeler, or related, designing or developing &releasing evaporative emiss 3D Class A surfaces of full vehicle psgr vehicle to see the full rankings Visit MercuryInsurance.com and request a quote to get a more complete understanding of long-term ownership costs. prgrms, from concept to produ exterior cmpntsPhoto incl. grills, head/taillamps, courtesyfascias, of Hyundai America performance, safety (incl. U.S doors, fenders, ABCD pillars, &liftgates, using Alias technical &regional rqrmnts & AutoStudio, NX &VRED tools, for U.S., global

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