MC Digital Daily 12.14.22

Covenant House CEO Megan Dunn

Talks

Michigan’s Going PRO Talent Fund Connects Employers and Job Seekers

Michigan Chronicle

NeighborHub Grant Invests over $1 Million in Detroit Businesses

By Rasha Almulaiki

The competition for funding and resources is often difficult for small businesses and non-profits especially when in a match against Detroit’s giant corporations.

The NeighborHUB Grant, administered in partnership between the Detroit Regional Chamber and General Motors, provides neighborhood stakeholders (nonprofits, block groups and small business owners) the freedom to drive and develop programs and places that specifically address needs and have the biggest impact.

Devon O’Reilly, director of entrepreneurship and economic development for the Detroit Regional Chamber, spoke to the Michigan Chronicle about what drives the success of the program.

“In collaboration with General Motors, we set out five years ago to create a grant program that was specifically designed to inject dollars into Detroit’s neighborhoods and particularly underserved neighborhoods in the city to support non-profits, initially. In the last few years, we’ve expanded the opportunity for small businesses.”

In partnership, General Motors (GM) and the Detroit Regional Chamber created NeighborHub, which aims to give grants to nonprofit organizations and small companies operating in neighborhoods in Detroit, Highland Park and Hamtramck.

Since 2018, NeighborHUB has awarded $500,000 in grants and provided advice and support services to awardees that are maintaining neighborhood-focused initiatives. The initiative has so far given 44 awards totaling more than $1 million to local groups and small companies that have built and improved places intended to encourage cooperation, effect change and have a beneficial influence on their communities.

O’Reilly said the diverse grant pool is representative of the residents and on the ground entrepreneurship at play in the city. Eight percent of the grantees chosen have been people of color and 64 percent of them being women-led or women-owned.

For the 2022 grant cycle, there were more than 200 applications submitted, and the selection process was very competitive. It was overseen by an advisory selection committee made up of Chamber and GM staff, previous NeighborHUB grantees, nonprofit founders and executives, and small business resource providers.

Applicants should have a community-development mindset in their proposal to improve on a neighborhood “hub” and consid-

Accelerating Black Wealth Rocket Announces $2M Wealth Acceleration Program

By Rasha Almulaiki

Rocket Community Fund and Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) unveiled the Rocket Wealth Accelerator Program, which is aimed at addressing the systemic disinvestment of Black community wealth and financial stability.

The $2million program was conceived to help alleviate the widening wealth gap between Black and White homeowners over the decades. Piloted in Detroit, Atlanta, Cleveland, and Milwaukee, thousands of residents will have access to mentors and resources to advance their financial goals.

“We’re really proud of the Rocket Community Fund’s mission to focus on breaking down some of these complex and inequitable systems to drive systemic change that will help every American have access to safe and affordable housing,” said Laura Granneman, vice president of the Rocket Community Fund. “As the nation’s largest mortgage lender, we deeply understand the power of a stable home.”

The health of a family’s financial stability can critically impact their ability to afford housing, save for an emergency, or exercise good habits that can otherwise cause a devastating setback felt for generations.

According to a 2022 report by Consumer Financial Protection Bureau on emergency savings and financial security, 41% of Black consumers have no emergency savings, com-

pared to 19% of White consumers.

The survey findings consider the “disparities in the historical context of policies that limited the wealth building and upward mobility of nonWhite Americans, especially Black Americans.” Although the Fair Housing Act of 1968 struck down discriminatory housing practices, such as redlining, the detrimental impact is still faced by generations of Black Americans.

“The program is designed to help our residents repair their credit scores, help save for that down payment, and the city’s got a significant down payment assistance to help,” said Mayor Duggan.

But there was a time when homeownership was a pride of this city. It has long been a source of wealth accumulation and what Rocket Community Fund is doing today is help get us back on that path.”

How It Works

Over the next three years, Rocket Community Fund, LISC and community partners will pair clients with financial coaches to focus on shortterm, medium and long-term goals. Clients will learn how to secure an emergency fund, build credit, and grow generational wealth.

The 18-month program will also include matching dollars determined by clients’ savings plans. For people pursuing a home or vehicle will receive up to $500 and those with short-term emergency savings goals will be matched up to $300.

The program seeks to serve an estimate 2,000 clients, including 80% of people of color. Of those 2,000 clients, the savings program seeks to:

• Have 1,000 clients create a spending plan with their financial coaches, building their

• financial know-how and creating savings goals

• Assist 500 clients in increasing their credit score

• Work with 750 clients in increasing their short-term savings, with 60% of those increasing their savings by at least 25%.

In addition, participants will receive a free, three-month subscription to Rocket Money, a part of Rocket Companies, which guides readers on managing subscriptions, mitigating bills and budgets with efficient savings techniques in time and money.

How Residents Can Participate

The accelerator program will be administered by LISC’s partners in community-based organizations, part of their Financial Opportunity Center network in Detroit and the other three cities.

In Detroit, residents can access the program at the following FOC locations: SER-Metro Detroit, Wayne Metro Community Action Agency and the International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit.

At the Thursday press conference, Eva Garza Dewaelsche, president and CEO of SER-Metro Detroit spoke on the organization’s 14 year commitment toward providing financial coaching to residents and will be expanding their services with the accelerator program’s sustainable model of resources

Social Capital Impacts a Child’s Economic Mobility

By Rasha Almulaiki

Over

ACEs can include situations of poverty, foster care, family involvement in the criminal justice system, and other traumatic childhood experiences that can have lasting effects on mental, emotional and behavioral development.

A recent landmark study by a Harvard professor shows the ACEs can be healthily navigated through social connections we make as children that highly impact economic mobility later in life.

In August, Raj Chetty, the William A. Ackman Professor of Economics at Harvard University and the Director of Opportunity Insights, published his two research papers titled Social Capital as a data-driven study of the correlation between childhood interac-

tions and how those interactions determine your future economic success.

The study defines social capital as “the strength of an individual’s social network

and community.”

“I saw people who were very affluent and then the people right next door who were in extreme poverty. Then I saw that given the right opportunity, many people could be more successful,” Chetty said in a press statement. “Those experiences — and seeing in a direct way how lives integrated together — motivated me to see how you can fix those problems.”

Chetty and his team were able to evaluate the extent to which social networks affect economic mobility by drawing on a sizable dataset made up of the social networks of 72.2 million Facebook users between the ages of 25 and 44.

The study suggests if low-income kids grow up and live in communities around the nation where they may be friends with kids from wealthy homes, “their incomes in adulthood would increase by 20 percent on average.” Overall, having friends from high-income homes greatly improves the chances of upward economic mobility for children from

Rocket Community Fund Team

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan

the last two decades, public health experts have found that regardless of a child’s color, health, or socioeconomic status, there is a key factor that can put a child at a disadvantage: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).

Friends of the Children-Detroit professional mentor, Daniel, spends time with his young mentee. Photo courtesy of Friends of the Children-Detroit.

Vision for Detroit’s Homeless Youth

“I

Detroit is expected to serve over half of the 2,000 expected participants, with an investment of three FOCs compared to one each in Atlanta, Cleveland, and Milwaukee.

Joe Lauchlan, a financial coach at the International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit, told Michigan Chronicle his team is ready to introduce the program to the over 200 clients they already serve.

“There can be a range of different needs we focus on with clients,” said Lauchlan. “Real commonly, we’re working on budgeting skills, we’re talking about savings goals, everything is going to be goal driven. We prioritize what’s important for a client for daily, weekly, evenly monthly habits that are going to lead to financial success. “ Lauchlan said IIMD works with both recent immigrants and lifelong Detroiters, each community needing a more tailored approach to their needs.

er anticipated expenses connected with activating and programming the area. Instead of receiving partial financing for a wider proposal, ideal ventures will concentrate on one particular aspect or program.

Small business grants should be utilized to upgrade the company’s infrastructure, including new or improved signs, new machinery, updated interiors, more delivery or mobility vehicles, bettering online operations, etc.

“There is a diversity also on what the grantees are funding,” said O’Reilly. “They’re repurposing vacant lots into park spaces and farmers markets, and creating community spaces, repurposing old churches. Using the funds to hold classes for tech activation such as computer labs and learning centers or mobile notaries. It’s

low-income families.

Economic connectivity was shown to have the strongest correlation with levels of economic mobility among the three distinct categories of “social capital” that they assessed. Accordingly, communities with more economic connectivity are those where low-income inhabitants have a higher percentage of high-income acquaintances. Economic connectedness measures the degree of cross-class friendships in a specific network.

Cross-class relationships, according to researchers, improve low-income children’s prospects of upward mobility by influencing their goals, enhancing their access to knowledge, and giving them direct introductions to job and educational possibilities. Researchers predict that if low-income children were to grow up in counties with economic connections equivalent to that of those in high-income counties, based on past research that examines the results of children whose families migrated across different socio-economic areas.

Targeted Early Childhood Intervention in Detroit

In Detroit, if a child is not naturally exposed to the social capital that is conducive to success, there are resources available for caregivers to meaningfully intervene

“For immigrant populations, that usually starts with acculturation and there is education, such as how U.S. banking systems work. For native Detroiters, most are renters and want to save for a home. For those that own homes, it looks like working on paying property taxes or home repairs. Often times, people have been living in poverty for generations and the trauma and

really amazing to see the creativity and community commitment.”

A 2022 grantee, Detroit HIVES, put forth the community project of “The State Fair and Hoover Pollinator Parkway,” which will act as a hub for neighborhood services and as green infrastructure to alleviate climate inequity and pollinator and human food insecurity.

Grant recipients may ask for up to $30,000 (for non-profits) or $15,000 (for small businesses) to carry out their plans or advance their companies.

O’Reilly said the success metrics of the program are set by the business grantees to estimate what their scalable needs are in the application.

“We let the individuals tell us what success means to them. It could be the number of residents participating in a program or some businesses have measured success based

on filling these gaps.

Derschaun Brown, executive director of Friends of the Children-Detroit, spoke with the Michigan Chronicle about the legacy of the organization’s work guiding young people toward a better outlook on their lives.

“Data shows that just having one connection can change the trajectory of a young person’s life and we’ve seen it play out here, over and over again, with our mentors spending that kind of time with a child and walk with them side by side [with someone] that struggles with stability in their everyday life,” said Brown.

Friends of the Children-Detroit is a nonprofit organization whose goal is to influence generational change by empowering young people who are struggling the most by connecting them with adult mentors of any age (12 years or older, regardless of their situation).

Although only two and a half years old, the Detroit chapter is part of a national organization that has dedicated thirty years toward a one-onone mentorship model to match young people who have been identified as having two or more ACEs.

The children are paired with “Friends” who remain by their sides for up to 12 years, often from the age of 4 until they graduate from high school. Currently, the organization employs eight professional men-

the bad habits that come with it.

We are trying to build hope, trying to take away the guilt, and their fear that impacts their decision making so their confidence is built in their abilities going forward.”

For details about how to get involved and about Rocket Wealth Accelerator’s community impact, check out www.lisc.org for updates in the next couple of months.

on being able to hire or train local residents in their businesses.”

Outside direct grant money, DRC works with community organizations, such as Michigan Community Resources (MCR), to provide small businesses with additional operational and training support.

“This year, we are happy to say we’re working with the BUILD Institute,” said O’Reilly. “We are working it into the grant, so that grantees can have access to their workshops, classes and mentorship.”

The 2021-2022 non-profit awardees include: Bailey Park Congress of Communities, DetroitHives, PAL Recreation Center, Detroit Sound Conservancy, Motor City Grounds Crew, One Michigan for Immigrant Rights, Women of Banglatown and The Yunion.

Nine small businesses were also awarded this year: Always There Mobile Notary, Cutz Lounge The

tors with caseloads of eight mentees, each ranging from kindergarten to third grade.

Brown said children are often referred to them through Detroit-area school principals. school case workers, counselors and teachers who see a child struggling academically or behaviorally and want to help intervene.

“It’s really about seeing the kids,” said Brown. “When a person says ‘I see you’ to the children, do you know how important that is? They need affirmations, sharing with them how proud you are.

“We don’t doubt caregivers love their kids and want the best for them but sometimes they may not have the resources to have that crucial oneon-one attention because they are busy taking care of the family financially or have other kids to split their time with. Caregivers often learn how to parent based on the way they were raised and it’s that cycle that keeps the family struggling for generations.”

Friends of the Children practices a two-generation model to work closely with caregivers, often supporting the family unit with their needs including groceries, court transportation and emotional support. Brown said this helps create a safe, stable and more informed environment for the young mentee to thrive.

The mentors build long-term, consistent relationships with each mentee to tackle the five “road map goals,” includ-

Grooming Shop, Detroit is Different - Online Magazine, Kidz Kingdom, Jo’s Gallery, Ladder 4 Wine Bar, Motor City GSD, Pingree Detroit and SMPLFD.

“We want to help these businesses grow and we want to help create more active neighborhoods and that means more successful businesses and neighborhoods, more successful nonprofits and activities,” said O’Reilly.

“We want to see activity and the funding we see in the greater Downtown area to happen in the neighborhoods as well. Every single neighborhood in Detroit has a chance and should have the ability to access these kinds of resources and have their stories voiced and known.”

To learn more about the community impact of NeighborHub Grant awardees, tune into “Detroiters Think Big: A Small Business Podcast” presented by Detroit Regional Chamber and General Motors.

ing academic success, improved health, social development, plans for the future and making good choices.

“We’ve seen that young people are always watching. They want to be held accountable, they want direction, but they also want to be praised,” said Brown. “They want to be encouraged for the things that they’re doing and feel acknowledged at every turn. This helps each child feel they can dream big, but also be able to attain that big dream no matter where they come from.”

Laura D’Allesandro, Director of Financial Health, LISC Rob Lockett, Housing Stability Team Leader, Rocket Community Fund Eva Garza Dewaelsche, President and CEO, SER Metro Detroit

Roots.

Here’s how to apply for cash assistance

By Joi Harris

Times are tough for many of our friends and neighbors, especially for those who have always struggled, but help is out there. Bitter winter weather and the financial strains of inflation pose a one-two punch of pain and suffering for Michiganders who can’t afford to heat their homes. What’s worse, some of the most vulnerable among us don’t know about the tens of millions of dollars available to help them keep their light and heat.

But there are people and programs working hard to take care of those in need. Every major energy company in Michigan connects its customers to assistance through the Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) and the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), as well as nonprofit sources such as the United Way of Southeast Michigan and the Health and Warmth Fund (THAW).

At DTE Energy, where I serve as president of the Gas division, we’re committed to helping ensure our customers keep the energy they need. A few months ago, we made a $10 million donation to THAW, the Salvation Army, United Way and TrueNorth. In the last six years, DTE has donated more than $60 million to nonprofits like these who provide energy assistance to limited-income Michiganders – and we are not the only energy company in the state that does so.

Here are three ways to get help:

■ Contact DTE at 800-477-4747 as soon as you know you have a challenge paying your bill.

■ You may also dial 211 to reach a service agency for help in identifying all the assistance available.

■ Learn more about our many payment plans and protective programs at dteenergy.com/help.

With all this assistance available, nobody should go without power due to a lack of resources. Our DTE customer service teams are equipped and trained to connect customers to assistance programs. Plus, our Personal Protection Plan draws together all forms of assistance and personalizes solutions for our customers based on their specific circumstances.

Beyond direct financial aid, customers can save money on their bills through DTE’s energy efficiency programs:

•Home Energy Consultations provide free, energy efficient products as well as money-saving tips for a single-family home, duplex or condominium.

•Customers who have a limited income may explore DTE’s Energy Efficiency Assistance (EEA) program, where qualifying customers can receive additional energy efficient products to help reduce their monthly bills.

Additionally, DTE encourages customers to consider these mon-

By Sherri Kolade

Wayne State University (WSU) senior Elisha Little was in a different mental space two years ago as a then-sophomore student finding her way.

“I came to college during a very interesting time with everything that the world had to offer from 2020 and onward,” the WSU business administration student told the Michigan Chronicle. “The pandemic, social unrest and the overall state of the world weighed heavily on myself and other college students alike.”

Now, the soaring college senior who found her way said that part of her journey’s answers in academia came in the form of a scholarship that provides her with tuition-free assistance at school.

Through the Detroit Promise Scholarship, a program that began in 2013, Detroit students like Little could attend school, graduate and thrive in the real world without real-world debt keeping them financially burdened for years to come.

“[It] lifted a huge weight off my shoulders by handling my tuition and fees,” she said of the scholarship. “It was great to be able to deal with the transition to online learning without the need to

Megan Dunn is the new CEO of Covenant House of Michigan, a Detroit-based organization offering shelter, job training and mental health assistance to youth facing homelessness.

By Rasha Almulaiki

In Michigan, over 60,000 individuals experience homelessness, according to the 2019 Ending Homelessness in Michigan Annual Report.

Megan Dunn, the new CEO at Detroit-based Covenant House of Michigan, spoke with the Michigan Chronicle about the organization’s long-term commitment toward serving youth struggling with obtaining basic needs in Metro Detroit.

“Youth homelessness often looks different than with adults,” said Dunn. “Young people don’t have as much control over their circumstances and could be without shelter along with the rest of their families. They might be sleeping outside or on a friend’s couch. Sometimes there are disputes with the family where they don’t feel safe, or they are a victim of trafficking. We need to dispel the myth or stereotype that kids are homeless because they did something wrong.”

Before joining Covenant House of Michigan in July, Dunn spent her entire career dedicated to mission-based work. She previously worked at YWCA Kalamazoo where she was the Vice President of Programs.

Since 1997, Covenant House Michigan has offered trauma-informed services in housing, educational opportunities and job training to young people who are facing housing insecurity.

Part of a nationwide effort, the organization provides a bridge to hope for young people by connecting them with emergency shelter and transitional housing, as well as education and job training opportunities.

Every day, the organization deploys a street Outreach team to “homeless hot spots” all over the city to connect with and build trust with struggling youth and offer them room and board. The Caritas Crisis Center is a 45-bed emergency shelter that is open 24/7, 365 days a year for youth aged 18 to 24. Youth can stay up to 90 days before they are tactfully moved to a transitional housing situation.

Youth have the chance to enroll in any of the programs available for employment, basic life skills training and counseling/mentorship.

“We want to catch them now before they become chronically homeless,” said Dunn. “ After a certain age and spending a certain amount of time without a home, then one is designated as chronically homeless. We want to stop that. We want to make sure that when youth come here, they have a safe and stable destination, even after they exit. A lot of them have experienced so many different types of trauma so we are sure to build trust and consistency of care before getting them connected with anything else.”

According to the Fiscal Year 2022 Annual Program Dashboard, the or-

ganization has reached 1,768 youths, providing an estimated 24,027 total nights of housing across their residential programs.

In commemoration of November’s Youth Homelessness Month, the organization hosted its annual “Sleep Out: Executive Edition,” inviting team members and donors to give up their beds for one night to raise awareness and meet fundraising needs. This year, the event raised over $300,000 for needed supplies and resources, including new sheets, computers, meals and all-around program care.

“For some of our youth that we’ve provided housing vouchers, unfortunately the policy stipulates they aren’t eligible if they are enrolled in college. So, they must choose between education and stable housing, which is an impossible choice no one should have to make.”

Beyond raising general awareness, Dunn is looking forward to her tenure focusing on expanding the services to reach more youth and also advocating policy reforms to programs that have, unfortunately, become barriers.

“We have had invaluable support from our legislative leaders and community partners,” said Dunn, “which lends us more leverage and power to tell our stories and influence legislation around the affects of homelessness and barriers within the system that still exist.”

Public School graduates through their schooling.

Recently, Wayne State University awarded the largest number of Detroit Promise scholarships for the second consecutive year, ahead of all other Michigan universities. This scholarship offers debt-free education for eligible Detroit Public School graduates and city residents at participating colleges for trade, two-year and four-year credentials.

Wytrice Harris, senior director of College Success and Partnerships at the Detroit Regional Chamber, far left, and Detroit Promise students.

worry about how I’m going to pay my tuition. It allowed me to focus more on my studies and extracurriculars. There is also a great community of Detroit Promise students at Wayne State and other universities that I have had the pleasure of networking with. The Detroit Promise team does a great job at planning professional development and networking

events for us to build and strengthen that community.”

According to educationdata.org, 42.8 million people are borrowers with federal student loan debt, with an average balance of $37,787.

Detroit Promise is looking to change that financial trajectory for Detroit

Detroit Promise – administered via the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce and funded by the Michigan Excellence in Education Foundation – in partnership with Wayne State covers the total cost of tuition and other fees included in registering, including enrollment, registration and student service fees. The award is non-competitive; every student who meets the requirements and applies for the Detroit Promise receives funding.

Wayne State enrolled 107 first-year students and 18 transfer Detroit Promise students for fall 2022, positively impacting admissions.

“The Detroit recruitment team works very closely with the Detroit Public

Need Help Paying Your Energy Bills?

Detroit Promise Scholarship Banks on Financial Freedom for Students

ey-saving tips:

• Install a programmable thermostat. Save up to $180 annually by programming it for the season. The recommended settings for winter are 65 degrees during the day and a degree or two lower at night.

• Save up to $200 a year by sealing air leaks around your home to keep heat in and cold air outside and adding proper insulation.

• Inspect and replace your furnace filter at the start of the season and at least

From page A-3

Schools Community District and Detroit charter and private schools to inform students and school counselors about the unlimited number of Detroit Promise scholarships,” said LaJoyce Brown, senior associate director of undergraduate admissions at Wayne State.

Wytrice Harris, senior director of College Success and Partnerships at the Detroit Regional Chamber, told the Michigan Chronicle that the program is a mutual benefit to universities and community colleges who receive more student enrollment opportunities and more.

Harris, leader of the Detroit Promise Path program, which provides coaches to support Detroit Promise students through their educational journeys, said that the program has been reformatted and renamed and rehoused, as well as expanded in the last 20 years but one thing remains the same: Detroit students continue to reap the biggest benefit from a solid education for free.

“I think probably the biggest impact

every three months to ensure your furnace can work at peak efficiency.

For more tips and ways to save on winter heating bills, visit dteenergy.com/ staywarm.

Don’t suffer in silence. If you’re having trouble with your energy bills this winter, ask for help. If you own a small business pinched by rising energy costs, reach out to us.

We’ll do everything in our power to help you keep your lights and heat on this winter and beyond.

Joi Harris is President of DTE Gas, a 30-year veteran of the Detroit-based company.

is not only for students to have the ability to go to school now tuition-free but not to have loan debt on other side [of that] and hanging over them the rest of their lives.”

Next year marks the 10th anniversary for Detroit Promise, which Harris said will entail a celebration highlighting the true benefits of the program with more details to come.

In total, about $8 million has been spent during that time to cover tuition for students. The funds come from the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce, where Detroit Promise is housed.

Requirements specific to Wayne State include filing the FAFSA application and maintaining at least a 2.5 cumulative GPA. Students must also maintain fulltime enrollment and pass a minimum of 12 credits each semester. Detroit Promise students can renew the award for four consecutive years.

For more information in general and on scholarship criteria visit Detroitpromise.com. Keeping You Informed Away or at Home.

Since 2013, more than 5,000 students have benefited from the Detroit Promise across 26 Michigan universities.

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Money.

Property Is Power! Mortgage Interest Rate Relief

This past week, interest rates touched the lowest levels in two months on the idea that inflation may have peaked. Let’s break down what happened.

10-yr Note Touches 3.67%

The 10-yr Note yield touched 3.67% this week, a large rate improvement from 4.23% seen the previous week. The downtick in longterm rates also fed into home loan rates, which have declined as much as .50% in the last week or so. The big question? Does this decline in rates have “legs” and will it continue?

Peak Inflation = Peak Rates

The readings on inflation suggest that we may have just seen the peak in inflation. We will want to see future inflation readings to confirm this, but long-term bonds, which are forward-looking, appear to be pricing at a peak. Do not tell the Federal Reserve that inflation may have peaked. There were several Fed speakers out this week saying that inflation is still a problem, and they want to keep rates higher for longer.

Short-Term – Higher for Longer

Remember, when the Federal Reserve says they want rates higher for longer, they are talking about the Federal Funds Rate, which is an overnight rate that banks lend to each other. The Federal Funds Rate affects shortterm loans like credit cards autos and home equity lines of credit. It is important to note that while the Fed Funds rate may increase by another 1.25% between now and next May, long-term rates like the 10-yr Note and mortgages, may have already peaked.

Smaller December Increase

The financial markets are now pricing in a high probability the Federal Reserve will only raise rates by .50% next month. Additionally, the markets are also sensing the Terminal Rate, or peak in the Fed Funds Rate will be 5 to 5.25% achieved by May of 2023. The Fed will attempt to lift rates that high and keep them there if the economic readings will support it. Should we see the labor market struggle and inflation come down even further, the Fed may be forced to do less hikes. As the old saying goes, time will tell.

Conclusion: Home loan rates have improved. With more inventory coming to market and many sellers eager to make deals, now could be a great time to consider taking advantage of the opportunities in housing.

Michigan’s Going PRO Talent Fund Connects Employers and Job Seekers

By Rasha Almulaiki

As the labor market continues to tighten and favor job seekers with higher skill sets, it’s difficult to find sustainable work for some Detroiters. At the other end, employers are straining to find qualified workers to meet the demands of techbased proficiencies across many industries.

Since 2014, Michigan’s Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity-Workforce Development (LEO-WD) continues to administer the Going PRO Talent Fund in partnership with Michigan Works! Agencies (MWA), to benefit the state’s employers and employees.

“We work with our Michigan Works! Agencies (MWA) and our Michigan workforce system to try and synthesize the supply side of the workforce with the demand side, which is the industry,” said Keenan Wade, administrative manager for the state of Michigan’s Go PRO Talent Fund.

“There is a gap we are focusing on between what is needed from everyday employees and in-demand employers to find a right match.”

The Going PRO Talent Fund (Talent Fund) provides grants to businesses to help with staff retention, development and training.

To qualify, employees, current or new, must be permanent, full-time employees of the employer when the approved training begins. Additionally, employees are

expected to primarily live in Michigan, be 18 years of age or older, and a U.S. citizen or legally authorized to work in the U.S.

What is the Process For Eligible Employers to Qualify for the Program?

Employees from MWA Business Services do fact-finding meetings with companies to determine their talent needs, training providers and access to government funding sources. After that, the MWA Business Services team can decide if Talent Fund grants are necessary to fill the skills gap. MWAs submit Talent Fund applications to LEO-WD on behalf of their partnered enterprise throughout the application period.

Since 2014, LEO estimates that over the life of the program they have trained over 146,000 employees and administered over 5,000 awards.

Training initiatives supported by the Talent Fund must be brief and meet an employer-identified demand for talent. Eligible training includes classroom/ customized training, on-the-job training and apprenticeships. Employers are reimbursed for investing between $2,000$3,500 per new employee.

Any training must result in a certificate for a transferable talent that is acknowledged by industry.

“The program addresses primarily technical skills gaps,” said Wade. “These skills gaps are measurable and ultimately result in some type of industry-recognized or post-secondary credential that is basically aligned with the state’s educa-

the financial trajectory of people across the nation. Why give that up?

President Joe Biden is even encouraging the workforce to keep at it with their jobs as more are now being created than before in the history of this country.

“The strongest growth in nearly 40 years, the first step in bringing fundamental change to an economy that hasn’t worked for the working people of this nation for too long,” Biden said.

Paul Robinson is the Founder and CEO of ConstructReach, a workforce development initiative and diversity and inclusion enterprise, and he knows a thing or two about letting one’s job work for him.

By Sherri Kolade

From quiet quitting and quick quitting during the Great Resignation to reshaping hustle culture while working 9-5 and being an entrepreneur – there’s a myriad of options out there as it relates to having more than just a job or career.

But what about those content in their jobs, although society says otherwise,

and those workers are happy to remain there until they retire? It’s almost the antithesis of the entrepreneurial boom that occurred during the pandemic.

It can happen, however, still even in this current inflation-hit economy where an employee can remain at their job and be successful – especially with millions of opportunities to choose from.

Currently there are over 6.5 million jobs available that are already changing

His workforce consultant development agency, based in St. Louis, Mo., builds on its passion of teachable opportunities for youth and consultation to help them be ready for work.

“One of the things that we specialize in is putting an emphasis on formalizing internship programs that takes into account a younger demographic,” he said, adding that this industry needs younger people working.

tional attainment goal. By 2030, 60 percent of our workforce will have some type of post-secondary credential. That’s the goal we are setting for ourselves.”

The technical skills training can range from hands-on technology, such as advanced machinery, to growing informational technology careers.

The Talent Fund is dedicated to ensuring that individuals have the skills required for in-demand occupations and that Michigan’s companies have the talent they need to compete and develop.

Envisioned as a hands-on liaison program, the Talent Fund develops possibilities for workers to progress or be promoted within the organization as well as for professional and financial advancement by broadening and improving their skill sets.

The Talent Fund seeks to close the skill set gap by encouraging the growth of credentials, certificates and degrees through training that is employer-responsive and improves talent recruitment, productivity and retention.

“We’re most excited about the proof in knowing that this program is going to have a huge impact on our communities and the people that make up these communities. That includes workers, the employers, and the communities at large, all of the stakeholders because it’s about jobs. It’s about credentials and that’s going to give someone a better life.”

To apply, search “Go PRO Talent Fund” at michigan.gov/leo

How does that translate to letting one’s job work for them?

Robinson says he and his team build the youth up through hard and soft skill development, teaching them about work ethics and learning how they can fit in at workspaces for long-term success.

“Their managers [help] to put them in the best position to succeed … as they are becoming professional and entering into young adulthood and into their careers,” Robinson said.

Local solopreneur Pamela Hilliard told the Michigan Chronicle that she has learned to thrive in spaces that she made all her own, which eventually led her to a company she runs – but it didn’t start out that way.

“I was applying for some jobs and I was told I was overqualified or that they would give me $20,000 a year,” she said, adding that letting a job work for you means knowing how to negotiate contracts, appreciating one’s workflow, and learning how to lean into the role and most importantly showing up to the job bringing your best self.

“Know your worth and your value,” she said.

Anthony O. Kellum

The Go PRO Talent Fund invests in job training opportunities for Michigan job seekers and connecting with employers. Photo shows an example of an opportunity to train as an electrical power line installer. Photo courtesy of Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity

Pamela Hilliard

How to Maximize the Value and Timeliness of Your Tax Return

(StatePoint) Research shows that if you’re dreading tax season, you’re not alone.

According to the Pew Research Center, 47% of Americans say they are bothered a lot by the complexity of the federal tax system. Other taxpayers stress out over getting the details right. In a Credello survey, 22% of respondents say not maximizing their refund is their biggest fear around doing taxes, while another 22% said their biggest fear is making a mistake.

“Many Americans rely on their tax refund to make ends meet. Accessing those funds should be fast and easy,” says Chad Prashad, president and CEO of World Finance.

To help you get a handle on your taxes, World Finance is drawing on its 26 years of filing expertise to offer these timely tips:

• Get ready early. As soon as your employer provides your W2, you can file your taxes. Having all other documentation and receipts ready to go will help expedite the process, which means you will get your tax return faster, too. Collect the necessary materials in one place before filing.

• Consider significant life changes. Did you move in 2022? Have a baby? Get married? Change jobs? Each of these monumental life events can have an impact on your taxes, so be sure to

disclose these factors when filing or to the professional filing on your behalf.

• Know what’s new. Visit IRS.gov to learn about any changes to tax filings that are applicable to you. A tax services professional can also help you identify relevant updates. World Finance tax pros have year-round training to stay on top of the latest tax filing requirements and are ready to tailor tax services to each tax customer’s financial situation.

•

If this is your first year working with a professional tax service, have them review your previous years’ filings as well.

You may be able to recover additional refunds if anything was missed. World Finance offers this service for no additional charge.

• Consider a tax refund loan. After filing, you can potentially take out a loan for the amount of your expected refund. This is known as a tax refund loan and an option to consider if you need your refund as soon as possible.

• Work with a professional. Filing your taxes with a software program is a lowcost option, but only if you have time to dedicate to the task, and the knowhow to get your biggest possible tax return. Working with a reliable, trusted tax preparation service can help ensure your taxes are filed correctly, and your return is as substantial as it can be. Look for a service that offers transparent pricing, flexible filing options and same-day Tax Advance Loans, such as World Finance. For more information, visit loansbyworld.com/taxes. Tax season doesn’t need to create headaches, fears, or anxieties. By gathering important tax documents in advance and understanding your filing and refund options, you can have confidence that you’ve maximized the value and timeliness of your tax return.

Bank of American Awards $500K Grant to Invest Detroit

Bank of America will grant $500,000 to Invest Detroit, a mission-driven lender and investor, to support small business and real estate lending programs that generate economic growth in underserved communities in Detroit. The bank’s grant will help facilitate $100 million in additional economic development activity in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods over the next three years.

“Invest Detroit’s strong commitment to ensuring neighborhood revitalization in Detroit is aligned with Bank of America’s goal of providing economic stability and mobility to the communities we serve,” said Matt Elliott, President, Bank of America Michigan. “Our partnership with Invest Detroit will lead to opportunities for developers and business owners who help move Detroit forward.”

Finding Savings Where You’re Already Spending

(Statepoint) At a time when Americans are keeping a closer eye on their expenses, finding more value where they are already spending on the essentials is more important than ever.

In a recent study from Morgan Stanley, 64% of Americans said they plan to cut back on overall spending in the next six months as inflation continues to rise and impact wallets. And while many are making cuts in their everyday life, wireless shows no sign of being scratched from the monthly budget. With more than 60% of households having cut the cord to their landline, Americans increasingly rely on their mobile connectivity. This may be why that when it comes to prioritizing monthly bills, the same Morgan Stanley study showed that wireless was top ranked alongside other life essentials, with respondents saying that keeping their connectivity was nearly neck in neck with paying their mortgage.

Another survey, by opinion analytics and research firm CivicScience, had Americans weigh the importance of their wireless service compared to other popular out-of-pocket expenses.

When asked whether they’d rather give up wireless or a video streaming service, 77% said they’d give up streaming and continue binging their mobile connectivity. When it came to choosing mobile service over a food delivery service, 93% said they’d sacrifice food delivery. Even America’s favorite pastime was

no match against reliable connectivity, with 86% saying they’d gladly give up attending a sporting event rather than part with their wireless service.

So, we know people would sacrifice spending on some of life’s little luxuries to stay connected, but do they really have to?

Inflation can be deflating, but you don’t need to be powerless against it. Simple money saving techniques can make a difference, and as it happens, if you have the right wireless service, you may not need to slash spending after all.

Designed to get the most for your money, T-Mobile offers an unlimited wireless plan, Magenta Max, featuring unlimited talk, text and premium data— so your smartphone data won’t slow down no matter how much you use— nationwide 5G coverage, a dedicated customer service team and more. The savings don’t end there. T-Mobile customers get $225 each month in extra stuff on the Magenta MAX plan with two or more lines. For the 94% of Americans concerned about inflation, having Netflix , Apple TV+, in-flight Wi-Fi and data in 215+ countries, plus a year of AAA on us, and Scam Shield protection all included can mean some serious savings.

In a time of increasing sacrifice, you can be selective about your wireless phone provider, especially when it offers benefits your family can’t afford to live without.

In partnership with the City of Detroit, Invest Detroit launched the Strategic Neighborhood Fund, an investment initiative that has focused more than $170 million in 10 neighborhoods, with plans to reach additional areas within the city. The new programs will address inequitable access to capital, lower per-

sonal wealth, and skill and experience gaps that create enormous barriers for local BIPOC, underserved and undercapitalized developers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners.

“This generous support from Bank of America directly increases our capacity to implement our mission of creating more jobs, density, and opportunities for BIPOC and other underserved developers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners in Detroit, the region, and across Michigan,” said Dave Blaszkiewicz, president and CEO of Invest Detroit. “Bank of America has been a long-standing partner of both Invest Detroit and our region, and we thank them for their continuing commitment to Detroit’s recovery.”

Invest Detroit has deployed $491 million of investment into 812 projects and businesses, leveraging more than $3.2 billion in outside investment and supporting over 12,800 jobs. The organization is also launching new programs in 2023 to support small businesses that are critical job creators in Detroit for low-income residents.

Review and adjust. Once you know what your return is going to be this year, make any necessary adjustments to your W2 to make sure you’re withholding enough during the year.

BartekSzewczyk / iStock via Getty Images Plus

C ity. L ife

How to Spot Gaslighting

By Sherri Kolade Gaslighting.

It’s an insidious tactic of psychological abuse in the form of manipulation where a person (or group of people) covertly plant seeds of doubt in the mind of a targeted person (or group) to make them question their own memory, judgment or perception of an event, particularly for the offender’s advantage.

Merriam-Webster, one of the most trusted dictionaries, highlighted it as the word of the year.

Lansing-based Chelsea Jay, a career coach and employee advocate who is “unapologetic” about her approach to getting people’s careers all the way together, posted about the phrase previously on LinkedIn because she has experienced being gaslit at work.

“You are entitled to your feelings, never let any boss/company invalidate them, and toxic behavior in the workplace is not OK. If you’ve been told this once… that’s too many times. You deserve better. Go get it,” Jay said.

Where City Meets Life and Life Meets Style

Psychology Today (PT) reports that “workplace gaslighting can also be the result of systemic, institutional bias, or negative media and social media coverage. A gaslighter may target and victimize groups as well as individuals.”

Workplace gaslighting, according to PT, is different from other forms of job-related issues like:

• The difficult work situation is because of a consistent individual, group or institu tional bias and negativity, rather than solid proof, strong facts, established cases and/ or proven data.

• The harsh work environment creates a negative narrative about the gaslightee (contrary to evidence) and damages the gaslightee’s personal or professional rep utation.

• The mistreatment persists over some time, despite a clear track record of the gasligh tee’s positive collaboration, contributions and accomplishments.

When approached on the matter, the gas lighter typically deflects and denies it.

The word “gaslight” does not only apply to on the job either.

Anthony Mottley, a certified behavior health coach, told the Michigan Chronicle that there’s certain instances where gas lighting occurs in relationships between men and women and even racially where Black people are gaslit.

“That is what we would call it ... essen tially when there are legitimate grievances in the African American community where peo ple might say [you are being] too sensitive or that your reaction that’s just crazy that you would feel like that.”

Mottley said that it’s psychological ma nipulation when someone is being told that

Chaos to Calm:

Makeover TV Series Brings Fresh Take on Organization in Detroit

By Sherri Kolade

Michaele Tocco’s got a bone to pick with you about that mess.

Yes, that one – the bedroom closet piled so high with clutter that you can barely get to your clothes. Or what about that expensive monthly storage locker you should sort through but you keep putting off and delaying doing so? Yes, she would like a word with you about those organizational skills that need some tweaking.

Not to worry, though, this professional organizer and founder/CEO of Michaele’s Precise Planning has only good vibes and even greater love to spread through her work and passion for getting people to fully inhabit the spaces they occupy with her special touch of clutter-free

Tocco’s Touch

Tocco wants to give everyone a piece of the calm pie through an upcoming series, “Chaos to Calm,” which will premiere in Detroit where she fixes spaces to maximize them with a sometimes-minimum budget.

Black Holiday Shopping 101

“Or

By Sherri Kolade

Want to shop local and Black-owned but don’t know where to start, especially during the holiday season?

With Christmas just weeks away, buying Black and finding that perfect gift for a loved one or friend doesn’t have to be hard – just Ask Jennyfer, literally.

Detroit-based Jennyfer Crawford-Williams, owner of Ask Jennyfer, LLC, an influencer and Queen of small business advocacy, told the Michigan Chronicle that shopping small and especially shopping Black is important during this season because of many reasons.

“Small businesses are the backbone to the community and by supporting these businesses you are helping them feed their families,” Crawford-Williams said, adding that some of her top favorite locally-owned products that she promotes for the holidays include handmade products.

“I love unique and handmade products such as greeting cards and wrapping paper by The Candidly Speaking,” Crawford-Williams said. “It’s one of the few companies that sell greeting cards for the Black community.”

Also, handmade bags and accessories by B. Jacklean made from recycled materials are one of her favorites. They both are women-, Blackowned businesses.

When looking to buy a perfect gift for the holidays, she suggests people start online and use social media.

For more information visit www.askjennyfer.

com

With the holidays comes traveling to and fro to visit others during this special time.

This holiday season people can give the gift of saving on baggage fees with this luggage that turns from a carry-on to a personal item created by Detroit entrepreneur Stephen Davis.

Airplane Mode

Entrepreneur and local business owner Stephen Davis, 38, of Southfield, knows all about that and told the Michigan Chronicle that his new luggage line, Take OFF Luggage, is available for all who want to make flying more fun.

The removable wheels and smaller size transform carry-on into a fee-free personal item.

Some airlines are now charging for carry-on bags, making upcharges a painful downside of flying on a budget airline. Luggage fees can increase the cost of a bargain ticket and make it hard to estimate the real cost of travel.

Google to research local businesses in my community that carries the products I am looking for,” she said, adding that ‘tis the season to spur the local economy, especially now. “Small businesses have been having a hard time for the past few years and shopping with them through the holidays and being intentional to shop small throughout the year will definitely boost the economy.”

Stephen Davis created a new luggage line, Take OFF Luggage, which is available this holiday season.

Tisha Hammond

Anthony Mottley

Michaele Tocco, a professional organizer and founder/CEO of Michaele’s Precise Planning.

Chaos to Calm

From page B-1

“To me calm it’s just that – it’s … a sense of seeing everything in its place,” she said, adding that even in her own home she creates a space for everything. “So even when you’re rushing in the morning you know having the place from where your keys go ... a drop zone for the kids’ backpacks, their shoes, so everyone’s not running around in the morning.”

aspireTV, the network that celebrates and reflects the Black culture and urban lifestyle, announced the organizing makeover show, which takes viewers from cluttered and frustrated to contented and organized, with practical and functional tips and tricks delivered by Detroit’s organizing maven Tocco.

From sharing tips and tricks on removing clutter to organizing clutter zones like basements and even businesses, Tocco and her assistant. Rodney Tompkins, show others how it can be done.

“We’re thrilled to introduce our audience to Michaele in this new season of ‘Chaos to Calm,’” said Tina Rodriguez, senior director of programming and acquisitions, aspireTV. “Not only will we see Michaele work her magic and help homeowners this season, but also viewers will get a peek into many places that make Detroit such a special city.”

In addition to homes, businesses featured include The Motown Museum, The Detroit Pistons, The Parade Company, The Theater, and the Culinary Incubator at the Marygrove Conservancy, as well as the Bagley Mansion and Woodward Avenue businesses Pure Vin and Bleu Bowtique.

Tocco said that it’s exciting to flip spaces from literally chaos to calm

while filming.

“I got to meet a lot of awesome people … in my own city of Detroit,” she said, adding that she hopes viewers will enjoy the show and learn some key lessons no matter how much time they have. “In my real life [work] I can take days to do a space but with the time frame that we had to kind of flip [spaces during the episodes] in one day, I’m just hoping viewers take away just some great tips to organize their spaces at home.”

At Precise Planning, clutter cleanup includes everything from kitchens and pantries to bedrooms and playrooms, along with home staging, relocation and more.

Precise Planning sessions are typically four to six hours with a customized plan designed specifically to your needs.

“Creating a more organized life is an investment in your happiness and peace of mind,” according to her website. “Michaele’s Precise Planning will design and create custom organizational systems in your home or office specific to your needs. You will have a professional by your side from day one to take the guesswork out of creating a functional space that will last.”

Theresa Kowall-Shipp is the executive producer and show-runner of “Chaos to Calm,” with Robert Halmi and Jim Reeve from Great Point Media also serving as executive producers.

aspireTV is a television network that celebrates and reflects Black culture and urban lifestyle in a way that is inspiring, authentic and entertaining.

For more information, visit www. aspire.tv, facebook.com/AspireTV, @ TVaspire on Twitter, and @TVaspire on Instagram.

For more information visit michaelespreciseplanning.com.

Black Holiday Shopping

From page B-1

Introducing Black-owned Take OFF Luggage! This travel solution is putting the budget back into traveling by disrupting airline baggage fees – using the airline’s own rules to score a win! The wheels pop off and the bag’s compact size transforms it from a carry-on into an under-the-seat personal item that passengers can take onboard for free.

Take OFF Luggage retails at $119 and could save passengers an estimated $80 - $200 on just one trip alone.

“Being a frequent budget airline passenger, to save costs, I could not believe when they started actually charging me to roll my own bag to my flight and lift it up into the overhead bin,” said Take OFF Luggage Founder Stephen Davis. “Since under-seat bags are still free, I tried to find a bag that size that would still hold everything I needed to carry.”

Davis said he couldn’t find a suitable alternative bag, noting that he once traveled with a friend who solved his problem by packing a book bag. He searched high and low for a sophisticated luggage-style bag that was small enough to qualify as a personal item.

Then the realization struck him –without the wheels, many of the smaller

high-quality carry-on rolling bags would indeed fit under the seat of the aircraft. That’s when he decided to create the perfect luggage for his budget traveling needs, a bag that would not require compromising on luggage space or traveling style. The innovative bag is built with four 360-degree spinning wheels that make walking with the luggage a breeze and removing the wheels as easy as pushing a button. With wheels off, the suitcase has the carry-on capacity –but is still the size of a fee-free personal item.

The Take OFF Luggage bag measures 20”H x 14”W x 8” D and comes with four removable signature 360° spinner wheels. To remove the wheels, simply press the two yellow tabs on each wheel and the wheel comes off to reduce the length of the bag from 20” to 18” – allowing it to fit under most seats. When the plane lands, simply reattach the wheels by aligning the two yellow tabs with the openings on the wheels, and pressing it together until the wheel clicks back into place.

To learn more or to purchase Take OFF Luggage, visit takeoffluggage.com or purchase on Amazon. Follow Take OFF Luggage on Instagram at @takeoffluggage.

From

their legitimate feelings or insights aren’t valid.

When asked for an example of racial gaslighting in the Black community he talked about the death of George Floyd in 2020 and subsequently afterward how people portrayed him as not responding appropriately to the officers while handcuffed and on the ground already.

“What else could he have done?” Mottley said, adding that essentially he was a “big and Black” man who was perceived to be a threat.

“I think it’s underestimated how much language does matter,” he said, adding that some Black people even gaslit themselves but it’s time to do one’s own research and change the narrative. “We have to identify resources in the community, mental health resources, third party resources maybe another legitimate person in your family, your church, your mosque … [whoever] can back you up in case of an emergency because a lot of times you know that’s all you have is that third party authority.”

Tisha Hammond, media strategist and small business cheerleader, told the Michigan Chronicle that after being gaslit by her boss for years at her former

Detroit federal job she had enough.

“What I found is that when I would bring my concerns about our work, our office [to my leadership] ... at the next company meeting or the next staff meeting they’re pointing out all of [my] mistakes,” she said, adding that there had to be a change. “I ended up retiring at the age of 41 in order to be a caregiver [to my mother] … It’s either my insanity or my freedom.”

For the past several years she has encouraged others in similar situations to continue to validate their emotions and turn the tables on the gaslighter. She is now starting her own company, Ascent Preparatory Academy For Entrepreneurs,

“This is your career and your livelihood. You have got to stand up and say something for yourself and advocate for yourself,” she said.

Michaele Tocco will be starring in a series, “Chaos to Calm,” featuring notable areas in the city and the organizational space makeovers they receive.

brown as quickly as other apples all lend themselves to shareable recipes like this Apple Wreath Salad or Roasted Apple Macaroni and Cheese, both perfect for holiday parties. Because cherished memories are made with sweet ingredients, you can turn cozy movie nights into festive and memorable events year after year by pairing Hallmark Channel’s popular “Countdown to Christmas” holiday movies with delicious desserts like Apple Custard Sponge Trifle and Brown Butter Apple Pie. Find more memory-making recipes at EnvyApple.com.

Brown Butter Apple Pie

Streusel Topping: 1/2 cup flour

Filling:

To make streusel topping: Mix flour, chopped pecans and light brown sugar. Stir in butter using fingertips until incorporated with small lumps of butter visible. Refrigerate.

To make filling: In large skillet over medium heat, melt butter until amber, stirring often. Set aside to cool. In large bowl, stir sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, vanilla and flour using spatula. Pour brown butter over apples and mix, scraping skillet with rubber spatula to incorporate brown butter bits.

Place frozen pie shell on baking sheet. Add 2 cups apple mixture into shell, gently pressing apple slices for even base. Add remaining apple slices and gently press.

Sprinkle streusel topping evenly over apples. Bake 30 minutes then reduce oven temperature to 350 F and bake 35-45 minutes until topping is golden and apples feel tender when pierced with fork.

In large pot over high heat, melt butter then saute diced apple until caramelized and tender. Sprinkle in flour and stir. Cook 1 minute, stirring frequently.

Whisk in heavy cream and milk; bring to boil, whisking frequently so milk doesn’t burn.

Once boiling, turn heat to low and whisk in cheddar cheese, Romano cheese, gruyere cheese, salt and Worcestershire. Continue whisking until cheese is melted thoroughly.

Carefully pour mixture into large blender and blend on high until smooth.

Pour cheese sauce over noodles and stir.

Pour macaroni and cheese into 9-by-13inch pan and spread evenly.

Heat oven to broil.

To make topping: In medium bowl, melt butter and stir in panko breadcrumbs.

Sprinkle breadcrumbs over macaroni and cheese; broil until golden brown.

To make balsamic dressing: In small serving bowl, whisk honey, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, garlic, balsamic vinegar and olive oil.

Place dressing bowl in center of large board or platter. Arrange arugula around dressing bowl in wreath shape.

Place apple slices on top of arugula. Sprinkle on goat cheese, pomegranate arils and pecans.

Apple Custard Sponge Trifle FAMILY FEATURES

Whether your festivities include immediate family or bring together relatives from around the country, the holidays are about making memories with loved ones. From the first days of the season to the last, many families spend their precious time together with favorite activities and the best foods the holidays have to offer. This year, you can change things up and start new traditions with a fresh ingredient like Envy apples, which provide an easy way to update classics due to their sweet taste and availability. The sweet, sophisticated flavor; uplifting, fresh aroma; delightfully satisfying crunch; beautiful appearance; and naturally white flesh that doesn’t

Apple Wreath Salad

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FAMILY FEATURES

Another cough and cold season calls for healthy preparation, and while there may not be a foolproof plan for escaping pesky germs, taking preventive steps and practicing self-care can help protect your health.

You can catch a cold or flu any time of the year, but they seem more common during the cooler months.

“As much as we all would love a quick cure for the common cold, unfortunately, that doesn’t exist,” said Ian K. Smith, MD. “However, there are many options one can try to relieve cold and flu symptoms, including over-the-counter medications. These medications can provide fast and muchneeded relief.”

Reduce the chances you’ll contract a serious illness this cold season by following these tips from the experts at Mucinex:

■ Make handwashing a priority. Preventive measures like washing your hands often can significantly lower your odds of getting sick.

In fact, handwashing is such a powerful tool against germs that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention compared it to a “do-ityourself vaccine.” Wash regularly with soap and water for about 20 seconds, especially when handling food, caring for someone sick or after using the restroom.

■ Get your flu shot. The CDC recommends getting a yearly flu vaccine to protect yourself from flu viruses. Ideally, everyone 6 months and older should get one, especially anyone at high risk for flu complications due to underlying conditions or other factors.

■ Make overall wellness a way of life. Adopting healthy everyday habits means your body is in better condition to fight off potential attacks by germs and combat an illness more effectively if you do get sick. A well-balanced diet that includes moderate portions from each of the major food groups can help ensure you’re getting the nutrition and nutrients your body needs. Staying physically active can help promote a stronger immune system. Getting

Maria Hazel Drew Cushingberry was born in Detroit, Michigan on September 20, 1952, to loving parents Bertram and Theda Drew.

She attended Detroit public schools where she originally met her future husband, George Cushingberry, Jr. at Hampton Junior High in Northwest Detroit.

Maria began her medical career as a student at Mumford High School as a receptionist for the Psychiatry Department at Sinai Hospital.

She continued her education at Wayne County Community College where she earned an Associate Degree in Nursing and was President of her class. Maria earned a Bachelor Degree in Education and Sociology from Marygrove College.

She became a registered nurse and worked in Community mental health as well as at several Metro Detroit hospitals.

She was much beloved by colleagues and received many honors for her work.

Married in 1979 she became the proud mother of George III and Brandon Cushingberry.

From George III and his lovely wife MaeSean were produced the loves of her life, granddaughters Madison and Morgan.

After a long bout with Cancer she died Thursday, November 25, 2022.

A model to us all, she was a devoted wife, loving mother, over-loving grandmother, sensational daughter, dedicated sister, wonderful aunt, caring cousin, miraculous mentor, and faithful friend. She was preceded in death by her mother Mrs. Theda Gray Drew, her father Mr. Bartram Drew, her brother, Mr. Jacob Bufford Jr., mother in-law, Mrs. Edna Cushingberry, two brother in-laws, Mr. Jerry Gibbs and Mr. Allen Cushingberry.

She leaves to cherish her legacy her husband of over 44 years, Mr. George Cushingberry Jr., two sons, Mr. George Cushingbery III ( MaeSean), Mr. Brandon Cushingberry, two granddaughters, Miss Madison Cushingberry and Miss Morgan Cushingberry, an honorary daughter, Ms. Janelle Douglas, an honorary grandson, Mr. Jaylen Douglas, one brother Mr. James B Bufford, two sisters, Mrs. Barbara Stovall (John) and Mrs. Yvonne Gibbs, one sister in-law Mrs. Bernice Bufford, two brother in-laws Mr. Dennis Cushingberry and Mr. Carey Cushingberry(Cheryl), Special Sisters, Mrs. Ida Belle Henderson, Mrs. Maple Johnson, and Mrs. Courtney Gilene Murray . Her memory will be forever held by a host of nieces, nephews, close cousins, relatives, classmates, colleagues, and friends.

A Public Viewing will be held on Saturday, December 17, 2022, from 12 Noon to 4:00 PM. Services have been entrusted to Stinson Funeral Home Detroit, Inc. located at 16540 Meyers, Detroit, Michigan 48235.

The family appreciates all expression of kindness during this time.

enough sleep and making sure you’re drinking enough water can also ensure your body is ready for whatever the season brings.

■ Stock up on necessary supplies. If you do get sick, the best place for you is at home, where you can nurse yourself back to health. That means having the essentials on hand, like overthe-counter medications to treat uncomfortable cold and flu symptoms. Be sure to check last year’s leftovers, as some may have expired.

A shopping list to fight common cold and flu symptoms should include pain relievers, fever reducers, decongestants, antihistamines, throat lozenges and cough suppressants, as well as plenty of facial tissue, a working thermometer, humidifier and more. Also update your supply of hand sanitizer and disinfecting cleaners and sprays to protect family members in your home.

■ Relieve bothersome symptoms. When you’re under the weather, treating your symptoms gives you a reprieve and lets your body rest so you can get back to feeling better. A cough is a common cold symptom, and relieving chest congestion that causes you to cough frequently can make a big difference.

An option like Mucinex Extended-Release Bi-Layer Tablets, with the No. 1 pharmacist recommended expectorant, is clinically proven to relieve chest congestion and thin and loosen mucus to make your cough more productive for up to 12 hours. If symptoms persist, contact your health care professional.

■ Do your part to prevent spreading germs. If you do get sick, know you can take steps to protect those around you. Simple acts like covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and using your elbow if you don’t have a tissue can be effective in preventing the spread of germs. It’s also important to wash your hands well and keep a distance from others to help prevent the spread of your illness.

Find more advice for preventing illness and protecting yourself this cough and cold season at Mucinex.com.

Fight Congestion Like a Pro

When you have a cough, you’ll try just about anything to feel better. Over-thecounter medications such as decongestants and some lifestyle habits can make a difference.

Nasal decongestants that include the ingredient phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine work by constricting blood vessels, which allows more air to pass freely through your nose. This leads to drier nasal tissues and less mucus draining down the back of your throat. Reducing postnasal drip means you’ll cough less often and experience less pain and soreness in your throat.

As decongestants constrict your blood vessels, other symptoms like sinus pressure and a stuffy nose also tend to improve. If you take a multisymptom cough medicine, you can reap the benefits of a decongestant plus an expectorant to loosen mucus, a cough suppressant to minimize coughing and a pain reliever for any throat or sinus pain.

Lifestyle habits can also go a long way toward easing cough symptoms on their own or paired with medication.

n Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water or other fluids helps thin the mucus in your chest.

n Suck a lozenge. Let a lozenge dissolve in your mouth to soothe your throat and ease a tickling, dry cough.

n Use a humidifier. Dry air can worsen throat pain and coughing. A humidifier can help by moistening the air you breathe.

n Rest. Skimping on rest when you have a cough or cold can make healing harder. Allow yourself to relax and sleep as needed.

Happier holidays are within your grasp.

Spend and save smarter, all in one place. With impressive digital tools from Bank of America, you’ve got more power than you think.

Sometimes, the most wonderful time of the year can feel anything but wonderful. So if you need help with your business, financial future or just making paycheck-to-paycheck go further — we’re here. With personalized products, simple solutions and experts in Detroit, you can keep life moving the way you need it to.

President,

Go to bankofamerica.com/detroit to learn more

What would you like the power to do?®

Matt Elliott

Bank of America Detroit