Michigan Chronicle Vol. 88 - No. 43 by Real Times Media

Michigan Chronicle

UAW

Let’s Keep Michigan Growing this June

All Black Everything:

Triple Strike Against Detroit Automakers

A Night of Elegance and Excellence at the 10th Annual Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40

By Governor Gretchen Whitmer

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

June marks the start of summer, a time of growth and opportunity. That’s why at the end of May, I outlined my top priorities to build a better Michigan: bring an advanced chip manufacturing plant to Michigan, fix our state and local roads for the long-term, and ensure every kid can read. It will be hard, but we can do hard things.

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

I am proud of our progress in education: we secured free breakfast and lunch for all 1.4 million students, boosted high school graduation rates, and closed the funding gap between our public schools. But we still have a lot of work to do, especially when it comes to literacy. Today, only 24% of fourth graders in Michigan can read proficiently. That is unacceptable. Literacy is critical to academic, physical, and financial well-being. Our education policy needs to be precisely targeted to ensure every kid in Michigan can read. Together, we can get our kids back on track for the bright futures they deserve.

Late Thursday night, Sept. 14, a historic moment unfolded in American labor relations as the United Auto Workers (UAW) union initiated a strike against Ford, General Motors (GM), and Stellantis. For the first time, the union took simultaneous action against all three major Detroit-based automakers. The action involves approximately 13,000 UAW members in assembly plants across Michigan, Ohio, and Missouri, who walked off their jobs after existing labor contracts expired at 11:59 p.m.

IShortly before midnight on

n a breathtaking celebration of talent, determination, and the unyielding spirit of Black excellence, the Michigan Chronicle marked its 10th Annual 40 Under 40 event Thursday evening. This year’s soirée, drenched in the theme “All Black Everything with Gold Accents,” transcended expectations and essentially illuminated the golden gems within the true essence of Black excellence. Hosted by the charismatic duo of Andre Ash and Lynzee Mychael from Michigan Chronicle’s Finally Friday, the night was a triumph for the city of Detroit and its vibrant community of young Black professionals.

own path to success. Clement “Fame” Brown, the creative mind behind Three Thirteen Detroit’s Brand Name, received the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Brown’s commitment to empowering the city through fashion and entrepreneurship has left an indelible mark.

Michigan Chronicle Pancakes & Politics Final Forum: ‘Women Who Lead’

The evening sparkled with a golden promise as we celebrated remarkable individuals from various walks of life. Among the honorees were the brilliant and visionary co-founders of Detroit Hives, Nicole Lindsey and Timothy Paul Jackson. Their work has not only changed the landscape of beekeeping and urban farming in Detroit but also exemplified the transformative impact Black professionals can have on their communities.

also expressed disappointment in a statement, saying the company immediately went into contingency mode to protect its operations.

Since I took office, we have reversed decades of disinvestment and made a lot of progress fixing roads and bridges across Michigan. My Rebuilding Michigan bond plan has made a big difference for our most economically-critical state roads and bridges, but it is only a temporary solution to a longterm problem. We need to fix our local roads too. Michiganders deserve to be able to get to work, school, or run errands without getting a flat tire or a cracked windshield. I am grateful to the bipartisan engagement on this issue so far this year, and together, I know we can fix the roads while keeping a balanced budget. We can do hard things.

“Entrepreneur of the year – that’s a big deal,” said Brown. “It’s always an honor to be honored and it’s always a blessing to be in a room full of so many talented, accomplished, and popular people that look like me. I’m geeked. I started making and selling clothes as a kid and I always knew that I would have a business, but I never knew it would be Detroit’s brand name business, so I take a lot of pride in the fact that our business represents our city’s pride.”

Can Reparative Investment Finally Heal the Wounds Left

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

Taking home the Corporate Excellence Award was Dannis Mitchell, Director of Community Engagement at Barton Malow.

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

“Together we have created a social, environmental, and financial impact through bees,” said Jackson. Lindsey followed that sentiment with, “It is through our local partnerships and collaborative efforts that we exist in over 28 plus locations managing the health of 4.5 million honeybees – humbly speaking our movement has inspired others locally, nationally, and even internationally to take on similar missions.”

The UAW has branded the industrial action as the “Stand-Up Strike,” focusing on specific plants within each automaker. UAW President Shawn Fain stated, “This strategy will keep the companies guessing. It will give our national negotiators maximum leverage and flexibility in bargaining. And if we need to go all out, we will. Everything is on the table.” Union leaders have also indicated that additional plants could be targeted in future waves if negotiations remain stalled.

For many Detroiters, Interstate 375, or I-375, has long been just another stretch of urban highway, a concrete artery connecting different parts of the city. To some, it’s a mere convenience; to others, it’s an unremarkable part of their daily commute. However, there’s a deeper, far more troubling story beneath the surface of this seemingly ordinary freeway—a story of pain, displacement, and the lasting impact on Black Detroiters.

Detroit Hives, a pioneering organization founded by Lindsey and Jackson, harnesses the power of urban beekeeping to revitalize neighborhoods in the Motor City. Their initiative not only addresses critical issues like environmental conservation but also provides valuable education and employment opportunities to Black De-

Twenty years in, Detroit’s longest-running civic conversation closed its 20th in-person season with intention. The final Pancakes & Politics forum took place on Friday, June 20, and it centered on the people who have always moved the city forward—women leading at every level of business, energy, and healthcare. It wasn’t a symbolic gesture. It was an acknowledgment that leadership in this city has never looked one way and doesn’t belong to one group.

ness district that had been the lifeblood of the community.

that. People feel as if they must only ask women.” He followed up with a question that doesn’t often get answered honestly in public. “But how do you continue to balance?”

having time to do the things that they need to. I require work-life balance for everyone.”

“It is so important to recognize that there are young leaders across the country, many that are born here in Detroit. I represent our city nationally and I tell people, ‘Yea I’m a D-girl I’m from the west-side of Detroit,’” Mitchell expressed. “But more importantly, I’ve been able to have experiences within an industry that not many of us, specifically women of color, have the opportunity to engage in and I’ve been the youngest person in the room, the only Black person in the room, and the only Sistah in the room, and I really had to articulate the importance of showing up, giving chances when others won’t, and being persistent.” As a trailblazing Black woman thriving in a predominantly male-dominated industry, her unwavering commitment to fortifying the connections between businesses and Detroit’s communities is unde-

It’s a history marred by pain, injustice, and economic devastation. More than 130,000 residents, primarily Black, were forcibly displaced. Families were uprooted, generational wealth was obliterated, and a thriving community was torn asunder. The wounds inflicted by I-375 run deep, transcending the physical barrier of a freeway to penetrate the very soul of Black Detroiters.

towards mending the wounds inflicted on Black Detroiters and restoring a sense of belonging that was so callously torn away in the past.

Britany Lavis answered with clarity. “You must compartmentalize different priorities,” she said. “It is very important to make a boundary of balance.” She spoke from direct experience leading a regional healthcare system in a city where providers are expected to do more with less and where executives are still navigating persistent inequities in access to care. Her point wasn’t aspirational. It was operational.

A string of shootings in Greektown in mid-April left both visitors and residents of this bustling downtown destination in awe. One of these shootings tragically claimed the life of a popular and beloved security guard following a dispute with a patron.

The I-375 Boulevard Project is about more than just correcting historical injustices; it’s about redefining the future. It will connect downtown Detroit to surrounding neighborhoods, bridging the gap that was placed upon the city decades ago.

Rachel Stewart connected her leadership to her role as a parent. “Having kids has equipped me as I continue to lead,” she said. Stewart leads one of Michigan’s largest furniture retailers. Her comment didn’t romanticize motherhood. It acknowledged the ways personal experience can strengthen decision-making and expand leadership perspective.

By Andre Ash

DIGITAL ANCHOR

Finally, we’re working to bring an advanced chip manufacturing plant to Michigan. As we all know, semiconductor chips are essential to almost every piece of technology that makes life possible—phones, computers, cars, and appliances. That is why I believe we must be able to design and build these chips right here in Michigan, top to bottom. To do so, we need to build a semiconductor fabrication manufacturing facility, commonly called a fab, in Michigan. A fab would create thousands of good-paying careers in everything from construction to cutting-edge science. Building a fab is a monumental, multigenerational task and benefit families for decades to come while guaranteeing that Michigan stays on the cutting edge of new technology. It will be hard, but we can do hard things. I will keep working with state and federal partners to fight for a fab and move Michigan forward.

This painful legacy can be traced back to the nation’s interstate highway program of 1956—a program that aimed to connect the country but often did so at the expense of marginalized communities. In the case of I-375, it meant carving a path through the heart of Black Detroit, reinforcing segregation, and perpetuating inequality.

Carla Walker-Miller responded with a reality that doesn’t often get said out loud. “That’s how it should be,” she said, “but I haven’t had a work-life balance ever, even to this day.”

All Hands On Deck to Combat Homelessness

Fain clarified the union’s strategy: “I want to give a major shoutout to the thousands of members who are on the picket lines right now fighting for all of us. The Stand-Up Strike is a new approach to striking. Instead of striking all plants at once, select locals will be called on to stand up and walk out on strike. This is our generation’s answer to the movement that built our union – the sit-down strikes of 1937. We told the Big 3 that Sept. 14 was the deadline and we meant it. We gave the companies our economic demands eight weeks ago and it took more than a month to get to the table.”

The tale begins in what is now Lafayette Park, once known as Black Bottom—a neighborhood rooted in African-American culture and history. Named after its dark, fertile soil, Black Bottom flourished during the mid1900s, nurturing the dreams and aspirations of prominent Detroiters like Coleman Young, Joe Louis, and numerous other Detroit legends. But in the name of urban renewal in the 1950s, this vibrant neighborhood was systematically dismantled, erased from the map, and replaced by a lifeless stretch of asphalt.

The forum was held on the 16th floor of Campus Martius. Rhonda Walker of WDIV joined Dennis Archer Jr. as cohost. They welcomed a panel of women who are responsible for driving major decisions across the region: Rachel Stewart, President and CEO of Gardner White; Carla Walker-Miller, Founder and CEO of Walker-Miller Energy Services; and Britany Lavis, Group CEO of the Detroit Medical Center.

The male suspect allegedly shot the guard before fleeing the scene, while his female companion is accused of concealing the weapon in her bra.

The panel didn’t rely on broad statements or abstract values. It stayed grounded in the everyday work each woman is responsible for. These are leaders who manage operations, shape workplace culture, and set strategic direction across sectors that directly affect people’s lives.

A Holistic Approach to Providing Shelter and Support for Detroit’s Unhoused People

She described a time during her career when expectations at work conflicted with what she needed as a parent. “Every meeting I’d say, ‘I can’t miss the bunny breakfast.’ I’ve missed so many things, and my kids had to be at that bunny breakfast no matter what. That was my way of setting the expectation that this is the one thing I couldn’t miss.”

For one to aptly recognize the harm caused by such projects, it is vital to note that some of the planners and politicians behind those projects built them directly through the heart of vibrant, populated communities—oftentimes to reinforce segregation and sometimes as part of a direct effort to replace or eliminate Black neighborhoods.

We have accomplished so much as a state in these past six and a half years, but we are not done yet. Let’s continue to do the hard things and invest in smart, long-term solutions so more individuals, families, and businesses can ‘make it’ here in Michigan.

While the residential areas bore the brunt of this demolition, the heart of Black Bottom, its thriving business center, remained largely untouched. Restaurants, theaters, clubs, and bars—the very places that brought Detroit’s Black community together—were concentrated around Hastings Street, the epicenter of African-American culture in the city.

This wasn’t a recap of success stories. It was a space where each woman was asked to speak directly about what it means to lead while navigating expectations that often go unspoken. Archer opened the conversation by naming a common double standard. “How is it juggling everything and still being able to be women who lead?” he asked before pausing to reflect on the framing itself. “I just thought—no one has ever asked me

Housing Resource Helpline in response to the challenges that residents face in navigating the complex system of housing services. The helpline provides a single point of contact for people seeking housing assistance and connects them with the resources they need.

Today, the resurgence of Paradise Valley stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Black Detroiters and the enduring legacy of Black excellence. This historic district, once a vibrant hub for Black businesses and culture, is experiencing a renaissance that harkens back to its glory days. The destruction of Black Bottom may have torn apart a thriving community, but the resolute determination of a new generation of entrepreneurs and visionaries is reclaiming that lost legacy.

Homelessness continues to plague urban communities, with families and individuals grappling with the challenges of making ends meet in today’s economic climate. Whether it’s struggling to meet monthly mortgage payments or coping with soaring rental costs in a housing market marked by shockingly high prices, a variety of factors contribute to the growing issue of people becoming un-

The union is pushing for a comprehensive list of demands. This

Meagan DunnJulie Schneider

These incidents unfolded during an unseasonably warm spring, leading to increased pedestrian traffic and heightened tensions in the densely populated downtown area.

The surge in crime and the influx of visitors to Detroit’s downtown core garnered the attention of the Detroit Police Department (DPD), catching them somewhat off guard.

That experience became a turning point, not just for her personally, but for her company’s culture. “Because of that experience,” she said, “it helped me ignite a culture within my company so that the people that work for me do not have to choose between having a great career and

But now, after decades of enduring the scars of I-375, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon. Plans have been unveiled to transform this once-divisive freeway into a vision that seeks to right the wrongs of the past while heralding a new era of inclusivity and community revitalization.

Dennis Archer Jr. moved the conversation to the larger political context by referencing the current mayoral race. “There are two women running for mayor,” he said. The statement was short, but it held relevance for the audience in the room. It reflected the direction in which the city was moving. It also recognized that women’s leadership in Detroit is not new—it’s just now being publicly centered.

James White, Chief of Police for the Detroit Police Department, said: “We were caught somewhat flat-footed right out the gate. By design we went into the spring deployment, which is less than the mid-summer deployment, and saw we say an uptick in violence that first warm weekend.”

The room was filled with people who understood the significance of what was being discussed. This wasn’t an event built around pageantry. It was an invitation to consider how leadership is practiced by those who have been carrying

Chief White attributes the violence in Greektown to a combination of weather conditions and a surge in population.

In the heart of Paradise Valley, Blackowned businesses are not just flourishing but thriving, offering diverse services, products, and experiences that pay homage to the past while paving the way for a prosperous future. From jazz clubs to soul food restaurants, the Black Press, and art galleries to fashion boutiques, this revival is breathing life into the very essence of what once made this neighborhood a vibrant cultural epicenter. It’s a resurgence that extends beyond brick and mortar; it represents the resurgence of a spirit that refuses to be subdued.

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

Then, in a cruel twist of fate, Hastings Street, too, was obliterated a few years later, making way for the construction of I-375. This marked the final blow, sealing the fate of Black Bottom and signaling the beginning of the end for Paradise Valley, the Black busi-

Historically, shelters have provided a temporary respite for those in need, often serving as the first or second option after exhausting alternatives like staying with friends or family. Shelters offer a place to rest one’s head and a warm meal, albeit sometimes for extended periods. For others, being unhoused means living in cars or makeshift outdoor

Support for the helpline comes from the Gilbert Family Foundation, which has pledged $10 million over three years to fund the program. Wayne Metro Community Action Agency manages the helpline, making it accessible to all Detroit residents. This initiative simplifies access to the City’s various housing services, ensuring that residents in need can easily find assistance.

Words Shift Tone at Detroit’s Mayoral Debate as Jenkins Challenges

Fueled by more than $100 million from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and other partners, this ambitious project aims to create jobs, remove barriers to economic growth, and reconnect the neighbor-

Detroit City Councilman Fred Durhal III, representing District 7, where Eastern Market resides, told the Michigan Chronicle, “It’s still very early in the process, MDOT is

He explained, “ We saw numbers downtown that we have not seen, ever. People are emerging from COVID and there’s a feeling that we’re in a post-COVID era… and with the venues downtown and the reasons to come down with all the activities that are going on, we saw hundreds of more people and, in particularly, young folks, teenagers that we hadn’t seen.”

What a Federal Government Shutdown Could Mean for Detroiters?

Black Resilience Amidst Gentrification:

The causes of homelessness are as diverse and complex as the individuals experiencing it. In response, the City of Detroit has adopted a holistic approach to combat this issue.

The first 55 minutes of Detroit’s first televised mayoral debate moved steady—measured responses, policy talking points, and political restraint. Then Saunteel Jenkins former City Council president and nonprofit CEO, leaned into the mic and cracked the room open.

By Lynzee Mychael MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

“Providing services and high-quality housing to persons at risk of or who are experiencing homelessness is a key priority of the City of Detroit, said Julie Schneider, Director of Detroit’s Housing and Revitalization Department.

“This means focusing on building the pipeline of supportive housing and coordinating with the Continuum of Care on the delivery of critical resources such as emergency shelter, rapid rehousing, and diversion and prevention programs. It also means preserving and expanding affordable housing options for Detroiters of all incomes and improving housing stability though comprehensive service offerings available through the Detroit Housing Resource HelpLine and Detroit Housing Services Division within HRD.”

“The city and its partners offer a lot of great services to help Detroiters with their housing needs, but they don’t mean much if people don’t know how to access them,” said Mayor Mike Duggan. “Thanks to the efforts of our partners and the generous support of the Gilbert Family Foundation, we now have a simple process to guide residents to the right housing resource and a growing number of programs to help them.”

“If you want a future that includes more guns in schools, locking up our kids, Craig is your guy,” Jenkins said. “If you want a part-time mayor who’s working two full-time jobs, Kinloch is ready. If you want a mayor who shows up on Instagram but doesn’t show up for meetings, then follow Mary. But if you want a mayor who is committed to this city and will continue the progress that Mayor Duggan has brought to this city over the past decade, then keep thinking Jenkins.”

In May 2023, the City of Detroit launched the Detroit

From the days of the Great Migration when thousands of Black families flocked to Detroit in search of jobs and a better life, to the pivotal role they played in the city’s cultural and musical heritage, Black Detroiters have left an indelible mark on the city. However, in recent years, Detroit has experienced significant gentrification, which has raised concerns about the displacement of long-standing Black residents. Similar to a setting sun, there’s a rising spirit, and Black Detroiters are reclaiming their place in the city, despite the challenges posed by gentrification.

The Gilbert Family Foundation’s broader commitment involves pledging $500 million to support projects across Detroit over the next ten years, with housing initiatives being a significant part of their contribution.

Notably, Detroit has witnessed a consistent decrease in recent years, with the number of unhoused residents steadi ly declining. In 2019, approximately 7,847 people were unhoused and entered the City’s community response system. In 2021, about 5,687 people experienced homelessness.

Just as sure as Jenkins began the line of closing statements, Kinloch closed the ending remarks and rebutted with, “My colleague has forgotten that construction does not happen by destruction; you cannot build yourself up by tearing other people down.”

It was the moment the stage got quiet—but the city heard everything. After an hour of cautious dialogue, the final statements delivered a clear line in the sand.

According to the City of Detroit, since the start of the fiscal year 2019 to 2021, Detroit saw a 28% decrease in the

because of discrimination, but they were also coming because Black people was doing some stuff. When did Black people start doing things in the city? They started doing things in this area in the 1800’s. In the 1800’s the major thing that they were doing in

illegal carrying of firearms.

“We have strategically placed them at key points, “ Chief White explains. It has been a deterrent for some, and some have tested it. If you are legally carrying a weapon and carrying a CPL, have a great day. If you’re

During the Great Migration, thousands of Black families from the South came to Detroit in search of jobs in the booming automobile industry. Despite facing discrimination and segregation, they built vibrant communities on the city’s east and west sides. Over time, these neighborhoods became centers of Black culture and entrepreneurship. According to Historian Jamon Jordon Black resilience

Four of the city’s top mayoral candidates— James Craig, Rev. Solomon Kinloch, Mary Sheffield, and Saunteel Jenkins—took the debate stage Monday night ahead of Detroit’s August 5 primary election. Each was selected based on recent polling from the Glengariff Group, with Sheffield holding a clear lead and Jenkins polling in fourth place. Though tension lingered beneath the surface, it wasn’t until Jenkins closed with pointed criticism of her opponents that the debate moved from formalities to a fight for a real contrast. Held at Wayne State University and moderated by WDIV’s Jason Colthorp, the debate was co-sponsored by WDIV and AARP in partnership with the Michigan Chronicle. The format allowed

voters to hear where each candidate stands on economic development, housing, and leadership style. But the closing statements showed where the sharpest distinctions truly live. Throughout the night, Jenkins pressed a consistent point: Detroit’s next mayor will face serious financial headwinds. She cited the expiration of federal pandemic relief funds and rising city costs. Her proposal? A citywide penny tax that could generate $100 million annually to

revenue and offset

cuts. “We have to prepare for what’s ahead. We cannot operate

were coming of course

DPD Chief James White

cased the diversity of talent within our community. From aries of her field, to math wizards like Donna Laster, who

From Left, Co-Host Dennis Archer Jr., Britany Lavis, Group CEO of the Detroit Medical Center, Carla Walker-Miller, Founder and CEO of Walker-Miller Energy Services, Rachel Stewart, President and CEO of Gardner White and Hiram E. Jackson, publisher of the Michigan Chronicle and CEO of Real Times Media.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer

Pancakes & Politics

the weight of multiple roles, inside and outside of institutions, with very little recognition. Executives, small business owners, organizers, students, and longtime Detroiters sat together in a space designed to hold this moment.

the rights of all women are continued.

“PPMI has been preparing for this moment since the results of the 2016 election were final. We recently filed a lawsuit to stop the 1931 law from going into effect, and we’ve also asked the state courts to affirm that the Michigan constitution does already contain a right to abortion. Our advocacy arm, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, is a founding member of the coalition that launched Reproductive Freedom for All, a ballot initiative to affirm the right to abortion and reproductive freedom in the state constitution,” said Vasquez Giroux.

Each panelist brought years of work to the table. Walker-Miller has led her energy services company to national recognition, building from the ground up with a mission that includes sustainability and racial equity. Lavis manages a large healthcare system during a time when hospitals face staffing shortages, community trust gaps, and financial pressure. Stewart is responsible for the direction of a family-owned business with multiple locations and hundreds of employees.

This forum didn’t need to declare a theme. It reflected one in practice.

Hiram E. Jackson, publisher of the Michigan Chronicle and CEO of Real Times Media, addressed

“The bottom line is that we will do everything in our power to keep abortion legal in Michigan, and if SCOTUS makes that impossible, we will do everything we can to ensure our patients can access the care they need.”

the audience with a note of appreciation. He acknowledged WDIV as a media partner and thanked the sponsors who helped make the forum possible. He also reminded attendees that while this was the last in-person forum of the season, the series itself is continuing.

“This is the final in-person forum of the season,” he said, “but Pancakes & Politics Overdrive will continue throughout the year.”

Elected officials are also working to keep Roe v. Wade intact thus holding off Michigan’s 1931 trigger ban. Governor Gretchen Whitmer released a statement saying, in part: “The words ‘Roe overturned’ are no longer theoretical. I want every Michigander to know— no matter what happens in D.C., I’m going to fight like hell to protect access to safe, legal abortion in Michigan…”

There was no forced attempt to tie the forum together with a single takeaway. The words shared by Lavis, Walker-Miller, and Stewart stood on their own.

Each response provided insight into what leadership looks like when shaped by responsibility, boundary-setting, and lived experience. It also demonstrated that leadership cannot be divorced from the personal conditions under which people operate.

will rule in the upcoming sion, advocates on both sides of the argument are willing to continue their

More than legal implications, overturning Roe v. Wade would impact several systems across the spectrum. With the potential to drive both foster and adoption numbers upward, a ban on abortions could leave many women to choose a less safe route restoring ‘back alley’ and illegal abortion practices, including self-abortions. Moreover, African American women and women of color, who already have a long-storied history with access and inclusion in medi-

islature adopts it.

Mayoral Debate

corporate boards to have more diverse representation and pass the legislation.

access to legal abortion will impact those communities most, forcing people to become parents or expand their families against their will. Being able to decide and control if, when and how to become a parent is central to building and living a healthy, happy life,” said Vasquez Giroux.

The final forum served as a reminder that civic discourse must include not only policy conversations, but also the people who are leading at scale within their industries. It also confirmed that centering women’s leadership is not an initiative or experiment. It’s a recognition of what is already true.

Beyond the scope of pro-choice versus prolife, the fight for repro ductive choice is one of freedom. As Michigan officials work to ensure each woman who finds herself in the position to choose has access to care without the threat of legal action, many wonder

Detroit is often asked to prove its resilience. The panel made clear that much of that resilience has been carried by women who are navigating complexity, directing institutions, and building internal systems that support the people who keep those institutions running.

There was no conclusion

“Overturning Roe v. Wade would be a terrible break with nearly 50 years of judicial precedent and – more importantly – a blow against individual freedom. It is my hope tices will reject the find ings of this draft. If that is not the case, we need to stand with Senate Majority Leader Schumer and

like we’re still in 2021,” she said earlier in the debate.

Sheffield, currently serving as Detroit City Council President, offered her own proposal for a half-penny tax. She framed it as part of a larger plan to tap underutilized revenue from downtown entertainment districts. “We are not capitalizing on the economic activity that is happening in downtown Detroit,” Sheffield said, noting her council’s effort to study taxation on high-traffic venues that draw profit without equitable reinvestment.

Better collection and analysis of criminal justice data: BLAC recommends data collection and professional analysis be initiated with the assistance of our Attorney General, Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES), Association of Michigan Prosecutors and other stakeholders to collaborate, collect and analyze data strategically.

Craig, Detroit’s former police chief, questioned both proposals and instead called for an independent forensic audit of the city’s financial position. He argued that true leadership means knowing the numbers and making “prudent decisions” rooted in verified facts. Though his points were often cut short by time limits, he reiterated his stance that Detroit cannot afford a mayor who needs “on-the-job training.”

Ban no-knock warrants: Urging the House Government Operations Committee to hold hearings on HB 5013 and other legislation that would ban or limit the use of noknock or quick knock warrants, and urging the state legislature to pass meaningful reform and advise Gov. Whitmer to sign the bill after the leg-

the chancellor embraces.

developers and push for expanded financial literacy efforts throughout the community.

Increase school funding: Statutory changes to increase the School Aid Fund revenue by at least $3.6 billion and establish a permanent weighted funding formula based on student and community needs and universal preschool (0-3).

The health committee recommends reviewing state licensure policies to address the barriers that Black psychologists face in obtaining licensure in Michigan.

Sheffield pointed to the rising cost of building affordable housing as a central barrier, noting that city-led abatements are necessary to close funding gaps. She also identified Detroit’s high property taxes as a core issue and said she would pursue tax reform if elected.

Reject censorship in history instruction: Encouraging Gov. Whitmer to ensure the goal for Michigan schools should be history instruction that is presented by professionals with the subject matter expertise, pedagogical skills, and judgment necessary to present complex information to students that are grounded in provable facts and add to the understanding of modern-day America.

That line was echoed by candidate Fred Durhal III at the first debate during the Mackinac Policy Conference—Durhal, who did not poll high enough to participate in the second debate, released a tax reform plan the same day.

Kinloch presented a different pitch altogether. As senior pastor of Triumph Church, he framed his candidacy around lived experience and spiritual leadership. “I’m running because the people that are empowered and in these positions are not delivering for us, and we got to do something different,” he said. When pressed on how he would manage being both mayor and pastor, Kinloch said he would be “a full-time mayor 2.0,” relying on a team of qualified leaders to support both his roles. “I will be a mayor that will go to church on Sunday, and when he goes to church on Sunday, he will preach.”

Ensure equitable dis tribution of state health funds: Ensure all Michi gan communities with a significant Black population receive adequate funds to address mental health issues.

Kinloch said his campaign was rooted in ensuring that no one in Detroit is left without shelter or dignity. He called for increased support through incentive-based programs to expand access to stable, affordable housing.

Protecting Black voting rights: Urge state officials to remain vigilant in the fight against schemes to disenfranchise Michiganders of color.

Increase mental health supports for the Black community: Recommending Michigan set a goal of increasing the number of Black mental health service providers by 20% each year over five years.

Tensions rose when Jenkins and Kinloch questioned Sheffield’s commitment to affordable housing. Both candidates pointed to her record as chair of the city’s housing and homelessness task force. Jenkins issued a direct challenge. “When you brag about all you’ve done, and a mother had to bury her babies because she couldn’t find affordable housing in spite of reaching out to the city time and time again… you have failed our residents.” Sheffield responded by reaffirming her work, but the exchange raised deeper concerns about what qualifies as measurable progress—and who gets left behind.

Jenkins echoed the need for new tools and resources to expand housing access and stressed the importance of meeting the needs of Detroiters across income levels and life stages. She specifically called attention to the growing housing challenges faced by seniors and said more targeted options must be made available for aging residents.

“BLAC members have worked hard to identify the needs of the Black community and we feel these recommendations will provide a solid first step towards breaking down barriers in education, community safety, health and business,” said BLAC Co-Chair Dr. Donna L. Bell.

Beyond policy, the debate revealed gaps in how aging Detroiters are being prioritized in campaign platforms. AARP’s Paula Cunningham, state director for Michigan, spoke candidly to the Michigan Chronicle about her concerns. “This is good for the people of Detroit and the reason that we hosted this debate is so that they can hear issues directly,” she said. “But I must say I am a little disappointed that there weren’t more [questions] toward older adults, who are the largest voting block in the country and particularly in Michigan.”

“I think of transformational leadership as a thoughtful approach that causes people to change but also causes the systems and circumstances they are operating in to change too,” Ivory said. “Transformational change doesn’t just ask people to do certain things; it asks them to change their view of what’s possible and excites them to drive that change together because they believe that what they’re doing will create positive change for everyone. That’s how entire systems change because people believe that they need to for themselves and others to live better lives.”

BLAC will hold a virtual town hall meeting to discuss its policy recommendations on Thursday, May 12 at 4 p.m. Join BLAC and a virtual audience in discussing the recommendations to support the Black community.

“Chancellor Ivery is a true transformational leader and an outstanding CEO, who is more than worthy of the CEO of the Year Award he just received, “ said Prof. James C. Mays, who teaches entrepreneurship and supply chain management at WCCCD’s Corporate College. “In his 27 years at WCCCD, Dr. Ivery has elevated WCCCD to become nationally recognized for excellence and innovation and preparing our students professionally and personally to do great things in the world.”

Sheffield was also asked to address claims that she missed 90% of the council’s Planning and Economic Development Committee meetings over three years. The claim, traced to a column by political commentator Adolph Mongo, questioned her presence. Sheffield responded by calling it a “fake report.” She clarified that as council president, she is an ex-officio member of all committees and runs the Tuesday formal sessions. “My attendance isn’t required for those meetings,” she explained. “This is what we go back to in politics when you don’t have substance, you don’t have a record and you’re not sure what you’re running on.”

One of the most pressing questions of the evening came from Michigan Chronicle executive editor Jeremy Allen, who asked: “As Detroit continues to grow and revitalize, the need for affordable housing remains critical. With a strained city budget and rising development costs, how do you propose Detroit can increase its affordable housing stock without relying heavily on state or federal funds and what new or underutilized revenue streams can the city tap into to subsidize affordable housing?”

Craig emphasized his commitment to rebuilding Detroit’s middle class, proposing a data-driven approach to track progress across key areas, including affordable housing. He said he would support incentives for

Her warning is grounded in data. Nearly 19% of Michigan’s population is over 65. In Detroit, Census figures place the senior population at about 15%. These are residents who often carry the burden of fixed incomes, limited mobility, and rapidly increasing housing costs. “I believe that the people aren’t preparing for what’s coming,” Cunningham said. “Michigan is one of the top four fastest aging states in the country. What does that mean for our infrastructure? What does that mean for our housing? Older adults contribute to the economy more than anyone.”

BLAC is housed in the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. Members represent many professional backgrounds, including economics, law, public safety, health and wellness, arts and culture and media. They leverage their experiences and expertise to make recommendations to the governor on critical issues affecting the Black community.

That statement matters. Because it reframes the debate from youth-centered campaign rhetoric to intergenerational policymaking. A growing senior population will require tailored transit options, walkable streets, and home maintenance programs. These voters aren’t looking for promises— they’re looking for a mayor who sees them.

To learn more about BLAC and this upcoming event, visit www.michigan.gov/BLAC.

The debate didn’t offer a winner—but it did leave a mark. When Jenkins took that final swing, she named accountability. And that shifted the room. It reminded viewers that Detroit’s next mayor won’t be chosen by who says the most, but by who shows up when it counts. In boardrooms, budget hearings, city council chambers, and neighborhood corridors—when there’s no camera in sight.

Detroit voters have weathered decades of promises and pivots. They’ve watched playgrounds close, block clubs rebuild from nothing, and city plans stall before the ink dries. They know leadership when it’s real—and they know when it’s curated.

What happens next won’t be shaped by a viral clip or a polished soundbite. It’ll be determined by who earns trust beyond the stage. Who knows the weight of rising water bills on fixed incomes? Who understands how it feels when affordable housing gets redefined until it no longer includes the people who built the block? Who answers when seniors ask how they’ll stay in their homes? Who picks up the phone when young people call for safety without fear? And who remembers that policy without proximity is just paperwork?

Detroit doesn’t need another spokesperson. Detroit needs stewardship.

Absentee ballots begin mailing by the end of the month. The August 5 primary is around the corner. For Detroit’s future, the choice won’t be shaped by who delivered the sharpest line—it will be shaped by who heard the city clearly and responded with action.

needed beyond what was already said. Leadership is being redefined daily by the people doing the work. The forum didn’t provide a solution to the challenges these women face. It gave space to name them and to hold them without interruption. And for many in the room, that was enough.

mission.

From page A-1

Beat the heat and save on your energy bill

When temperatures rise, your energy use will rise, and so can your energy bills. Half of your energy bill comes from cooling your home, so when air conditioners and other appliances are working harder with the high heat to keep you cool and comfortable, it may increase your bill. Take control of your energy use by applying these energy-saving tips to beat the heat and keep your energy bill down.

• Adjust your programmable thermostat to pre-cool your home before 3 p.m. or turn your

thermostat up a few degrees

Planting the right tree in the right place can protect power reliability

Fallen trees and limbs account for nearly half of the time DTE cus-

tomers spend without power. That’s why DTE has invested nearly one billion dollars since 2019 to trim and remove trees that could damage electric equipment, causing outages. Last year alone, DTE trimmed more than 350 miles of trees near our electric equipment in Detroit — that’s the same distance from Detroit to Louisville, Kentucky. The company expects to trim another 340 miles throughout Detroit this year.

By the end of this year, the company will have trimmed every mile in its service territory to industry standards.

In the future, DTE plans to monitor and track fast growing species on customers’ property and will prioritize trimming circuits where those species are to maintain trimming to the industry standard across its service territory. The company also plans on removing brush and smaller trees underneath lines more aggressively and will make every effort to collaborate with homeowners on this work.

More reliable power and trimming trees go hand-in-hand, but you shouldn’t have to choose between reliable service and beautiful trees. By planting the right trees in the right place, you can have both. If you’re planting trees on your property this summer, consider following the

Summer at Beacon Park

Beacon Park is lighting up downtown Detroit this summer with a vibrant lineup of events that reflect the

company’s Right Tree, Right Place guidelines:

• If you are planting within 20 feet of a power line, on either side of the line, pick trees like star magnolia, dwarf arborvitae or some varieties of dogwood that will not grow more than 20 feet high.

• Trees like Japanese maple, redbud and flowering dogwood, that will grow between 21 and 45 feet, should be planted 20 to 50 feet away from power lines.

• Lastly, trees that will grow 46 feet or taller, red oak, basswood or white pines, should be planted more than 50 feet away from power lines.

Even if you don’t have overhead equipment or service lines on your property, it’s important to call MISS DIG at 8-1-1before you begin any kind of digging project. MISS DIG will identify and stake any underground utility lines in the area like natural gas, cable, electric lines and more. Not only is it a fast, free and helpful service that can prevent dangerous situations, but it’s also the law to call before you dig. You can learn more about choosing the Right Tree for the Right Place at dteenergy.com/treetrim.

How To Manage The High Costs Of Leasing or Buying a Vehicle

Property is Power!

What the Rollback of Fair Housing Means for Black Homeownership

By Dr. Anthony O. Kellum CEO OF KELLUM MORTGAGE, LLC

In a quiet move that could have loud consequences, the Trump administration recently repealed a critical piece of the Biden-era housing equity agenda the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) rule. While it didn’t grab major headlines, its impact will ripple through our neighborhoods, loan approvals, and long-term efforts to close the racial homeownership gap. For Black families striving to buy homes or hold onto them it may carry deeper consequences than many realize.

The AFFH rule, rooted in the original 1968 Fair Housing Act, was designed to ensure that cities and counties receiving federal housing dollars took active steps to address housing discrimination, segregation, and systemic barriers to fair access. Under President Biden, the rule had been reinstated and strengthened after years of

Matters of Life and Death: Who Gets the Final Say?

By Jehan Crump-Gibson CONTRIBUTING WRITER

For most people, conversations about death are not easy to have. That uneasiness often leads to a failure to plan. That failure to plan becomes a one-way ticket to probate. “Probate” generally refers to the process through which a deceased person’s property is distributed. Property can mean a home, a vehicle, a business, financial accounts and more. Probate is necessary when someone passes away with property in their name alone, with no joint owner or living beneficiary. Probate Court is the court that handles this process, among other things. The process can be lengthy, confusing, and costly. In addition to those stressors, property often passes differently than the dearly departed would have wanted.

If you are not intentional about getting your affairs in order, the law will have the final say on what happens. This means that the law will determine who will handle your affairs. The law will also determine how your property is distributed. This may or may not be in line with your wishes.

By way of example, let’s say we have Donna. Donna is 53 years old and divorced. She has no children. Her parents and two of her older siblings have passed away. She has two living siblings and eight nieces and nephews, who are the children of her deceased siblings. She does not have a close relationship with many of those nieces and nephews.

Donna does not think much about getting her affairs in order because she believes she has time. After all, longevity runs in her family — her parents made it to their mid-nineties. When she gets around to it, she plans on telling her goddaughter Teri that she wants her property split between Teri and Donna’s two living siblings, after a small donation is made to her longtime church home.

Unexpectedly, Donna passes away in a car accident on the way home from work one day. She never got her affairs in order, so she has no legally recognized documents that direct what she wants to happen with her property. Her house, bank accounts and her 401(k) are in her name alone. Guess who the law says will receive Donna’s property after the probate process concludes? Her two living siblings and all eight of her nieces and nephews. That means when it is all said and done, 10 people will split what she has. This is clearly not what she wanted. Her goddaughter

being dormant. Local governments were required to assess equity in their housing programs, collect and report data, and develop measurable plans to create more inclusive communities. That changed in February 2025. The current administration scrapped the rule, arguing that it amounted to a “zoning tax” on local communities. In its place, cities and counties now only need to sign a basic pledge stating they will support fair housing no detailed analysis, no action plans, and no enforcement if they fail. Why does this matter?

Anthony O. Kellum

Because it removes one of the few tools the federal government had to hold localities accountable for deeply rooted housing disparities. Without it, cities that want to keep affordable housing out of wealthier neighborhoods now have more freedom to do so. Discriminatory lending, zoning, and appraisal practices already difficult to challenge will become even harder to confront without federal oversight. Take for example a young Black couple

and her church will not receive anything because that is not what the law allows in the absence of a valid legal document. If Donna had taken the steps to plan and get her affairs in order, this could have been avoided. So, what does planning mean? What does getting your affairs in order mean? It means having an estate plan done — no matter what you have. There is a widespread myth that you must be rich to make an estate plan. This is false. Your estate is whatever you have. If that is a checking account and a car, that is your estate. You need to plan for it accordingly.

Wayne County Probate Court is the busiest probate court in the state of Michigan. In 2024, the court handled 11,597 new filings and scheduled 29,649 hearings. This is just one county court in one state. A number of those filings were for people just

in Atlanta both professionals, earning good salaries, ready to buy their first home. They found a property in a suburb with great schools, low crime, and strong property values. But each time they applied for financing, their loan was denied. An identical home with similar financing terms was later approved for a white couple with lower income and less savings. The bank blamed “internal scoring models,” but no one could provide a straight answer. Without the AFFH rule in place, the municipality is no longer required to track these outcomes or do anything about them. And HUD, lacking enforcement authority, has fewer ways to intervene.

This isn’t just about individual families. It’s about the larger picture. Black homeownership in the United States still hovers around 44%, while white homeownership stands near 75%. That gap has barely moved in decades. Meanwhile, Black borrowers are still nearly twice as likely to be denied a mortgage even with strong credit and income. These patterns are systemic, not accidental. And rules like AFFH were

like Donna. The good thing is that you do not have to add to these staggering numbers in the future. Consult with an estate planning attorney to determine exactly what documents you need based on your situation. Do not leave things to chance.

Attorney Jehan Crump-Gibson is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Great Lakes Legal Group PLLC, where she concentrates her practice in probate and estate planning, business and real estate matters. Great Lakes Legal Group is a growing black-owned law firm serving clients throughout the state of Michigan and in federal courts across the country. Jehan has served as Faculty for the National Business Institute and the Institute of Continuing Legal Education concerning business, probate and estate planning matters. She is a legal analyst with Fox2 Detroit’s The Noon and the author of the book A Matter of Life and Death.

created to push against that system. So, what can we do now?

Even when federal protections are weakened, we still have power at the local and community level. This is the moment to ask hard questions of your local officials. Are they continuing equity analysis voluntarily? Are they investing in affordable housing across all neighborhoods? Who’s making the zoning decisions in your city, and what do they stand for?

Support local housing justice organizations that are stepping up to fill the gap. Advocate for inclusive zoning, fair appraisals, and targeted down payment assistance. Hold your city accountable not just through protest, but through planning boards, town halls, and local elections. Most importantly, prepare. Check your credit. Build your savings. Know your rights. And work with brokers, lenders, agents, and advocates who believe in your vision of homeownership and are willing to fight with you to make it happen. The federal government may have taken a step back, but our resolve doesn’t have to.

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.

Jehan Crump-Gibson

Michigan Chronicle Celebrates the 2025

Page A5 | June 25 - July 1, 2025

Michael Aaron

Business Manager & Chief executive officer Local 1191

H

Lazar Favors

Michael Aaron joined Laborers’ Local 1191 in 1984 when he began working in the Construction Industry. In 1988, he was hired in as a Business Agent by deceased Business Manager, Elijah Washington. Aaron has served the Local Union as Recording Secretary as well as being elected President of the Local Union in 1994.

In addition to his duties as Business Agent and President, he also served as Assistant Business Manager under Jimmy Cooper. When Mr. Cooper retired in 2009, Aaron was installed to fulfill Cooper’s unexpired term of Business Manager. In June of 2010, Michael Aaron was elected Business Manager by the members of Laborers’ Local 1191.

As Business Manager of Michigan’s largest Laborers’ Union, Aaron’s duties consist of but are not limited to upholding the constitutions of LIUNA, to see that the business and affairs of the Local Union are being properly conducted, to protect the Laborers’ jurisdiction, enforcement of all agreements, to protect the rights of the hardworking members of the Local Union, organizing non-union contractors, and securing fair wages and benefits through collective bargaining.

Charles Lamar Bailey

President

and General Manager Lake Star Construction Services

Charles Lamar Bailey, a proud Detroit native, has built a career dedicated to community impact and industry excellence. He began with a nine-year tenure at a major construction firm, gaining key skills that led him to launch Lake Star Construction Services in 2012. As President and General Manager, Charles leads this Detroit-based general contracting firm specializing in rehab, lead abatement, and a range of construction trades. His leadership has positioned Lake Star as a trusted name committed to quality and community. Passionate about youth empowerment, Charles and his wife established the Lake Star Scholars Annual Scholarship Program, awarding Detroit high school seniors pursuing college or vocational training.

His entrepreneurial drive also led to the founding of London Sky Investments in 2014, a real estate firm focused on residential investment. Most recently, he entered the food and beverage space with Bailey Foods, becoming a Tubby’s Sub Shops franchisee.

Beyond business, Charles is a devoted husband, father of three daughters, an Eastern Michigan University alum, and an active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

Neil Barclay

& CEO

President

Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History

“The Michigan Chronicle Men of Excellence Awards, in its 18th year, recognizes local African American men who inspire others through their vision, leadership, exceptional achievements, and participation in community service. They are men who exemplify extraordinary stature, poise and integrity who continue to break the mold and affect change in their professions and community. These men influence those around them to go beyond the norm and strive for greatness. They are champions of our economic empowerment and diversity, the backbone of our business, religious and educational organizations, and driving forces in politics and service. Help us welcome our new Men of Excellence class.”

Dwan Dandridge

Chief Executive officer Black Leaders Detroit

Dwan Dandridge is the visionary founder and CEO of Black Leaders Detroit, an organization committed to empowering Black-led initiatives and organizations across Detroit. Since 2019, Dwan has led efforts to transform equity and inclusion from buzzwords into tangible action by providing access to critical funding and resources. His ambitious goal is to unite one million people to contribute $1 per week, fueling a thriving model city where leaders and entrepreneurs fully reflect Detroit’s rich diversity.

CEO Detroit Black Film Festival and Black Spirits Legacy

Lazar Favors is the co-owner of Trinity Films Entertainment Group, which manages The Detroit Black Film Festival—now in its sixth year—and the Trinity International Film Festival, running for 19 years. Both festivals offer workshops and masterclasses that engage communities interested in film and television.

In 2021, Lazar

Demond Fernandez

Before working in Detroit, Fernandez made career stops as a Reporter and Anchor at newsrooms in cities including Lansing, Flint, San Antonio, Houston, and Dallas. Fernandez is an award-winning and Emmy-nominated journalist. He’s received Michigan Association of Broadcasters Awards for investigative reporting, national Salute to Excellence Awards for feature and hard news reporting. Numerous civic and community groups have also recognized Fernandez for his passion for storytelling and community service.

Cedric Flowers

Vice President of Gas DTE Gas

As a former attorney, Neil Barclay is a nationally recognized arts leader with a career spanning executive leadership, arts administration, and cultural planning. Most recently, he served as President and CEO of the Contemporary Arts Center (CAC) in New Orleans, where he led the organization through a period of significant growth. During his five-year tenure, the CAC’s budget increased by over 40%, supported by major gifts from some of the nation’s top arts philanthropists.

Neil previously served as Associate Director of the Performing Arts Center at the University of Texas at Austin and was the founding President and CEO of Pittsburgh’s August Wilson Center. He played a key role in the capital renovation planning for Los Angeles’ historic Vision Theater, originally built by Howard Hughes.

A respected voice in the arts community, Barclay spent nine years on the Board of the Association of Arts Professionals, including four as Vice President, and currently chairs the board of South Arts. Since 2018, he has also served on the Advisory Board for the College of Communication and Fine Arts at Loyola Marymount University, where he earned both his undergraduate and law degrees.

Jody A. Connally, MSA Vice President Of Human Resources Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network

Jody A. Connally, MSA, is a seasoned human resources executive with decades of experience in personnel management and labor relations. Since beginning their career in 1994, Jody has held leadership roles in major public service organizations, including Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network, Wayne County Department of Health and Human Services, and the Wayne County Department of Public Health. Their roles have included Vice President, Director, and Manager of Human Resources. Throughout their career, Jody has overseen contract administration, budget develop ment, personnel policy creation, and recruitment processes. They also bring expertise in job classification, file maintenance, and organizational development.

Jody’s educational journey began at Cass Technical High School, where they focused on Business Administration. They earned a Bachelor of Arts in Finance from Morehouse College in 1994. In 2020, they furthered their academic credentials by obtaining a Master of Science in Public Administration from Central Michigan University.

Prior to this, Dwan served as Vice President of Projects and Community Engagement at Life Remodeled, where he orchestrated the impactful Six Day Project. This initiative mobilized 10,000 volunteers to clear blight and beautify four square miles of Detroit, emphasizing radical hope in neighborhoods facing great challenges. Dwan is deeply committed to equitable community collaboration, ensuring power and resources are shared, and that local residents’ visions remain central to every project. His leadership continues to drive meaningful change, inspiring a more inclusive and prosperous Detroit.

Mamadou Diallo

Chief Executive Officer

Pistons Group

Mamadou Diallo, formerly Senior Vice President of Auto Sales at American Honda Motor Co., Inc., has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Piston Group, reporting to Founder and Chairman Vinnie Johnson. In his new role, Diallo will oversee the group’s overall operational performance, financial management, planning and reporting, and performance across all Piston Group companies, including Piston Automotive, Piston Interiors, A Lava, and Detroit Thermal Systems.

Diallo joined Honda in 2001 through the National Trainee program and spent 23 years in leadership roles. These included Vice President of Auto Sales, overseeing sales for Honda and Acura in the U.S., Caribbean, and Central America; Vice President of Auto Operations; and Assistant Vice President of Acura National Sales, among others.

Recognized for his deep expertise in automotive sales, logistics, and OEM strategy, Diallo also served on the Board of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation and the Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) board. He holds a degree in Business Administration and completed post-graduate studies at the University of the District of Columbia and IMD Business School in Switzerland.

Andre M. Ebron Chief Of Staff City Year

Jody’s strong foundation in finance, combined with their advanced knowledge of public administration and decades of hands-on experience, makes them a highly effective leader in workforce development, policy implementation, and HR strategy across government and nonprofit sectors.

Andre M. Ebron is a blueprint for what happens when soul meets strategy. A transformational leader, motivational speaker, minister, and educator, Andre doesn’t just talk impact. He lives it. From classrooms to congregations, from courtrooms to corner offices, his life’s work has been about one thing: Turning potential into purpose. Now Chief of Staff at City Year Detroit, Andre brings decades of experience in youth empowerment, education, and community transformation to every room he enters.

He’s walked the path from foster care specialist to dean of students to CEO of his own leadership consultancy, each step a testament to his belief that we are not defined by where we start, but by how deeply we serve. Andre and his wife, Shalessa, have been married for 21 years, and they have two amazing children: daughter, Christian, and son, Andre II.

Cedric Flowers is Vice President of Gas Operations for DTE Gas, the natural gas utility of DTE Energy, which serves 1.3 million homes and businesses across Michigan. In this role, he oversees utility gas operations, including construction, transmission, distribution, storage, and planning, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Flowers is responsible for advancing operational systems and policies that prioritize safety, system integrity, and performance.

He joined DTE Energy in 2019 and previously served as Director of Major Enterprise Projects, leading the planning and execution of the company’s largest gas infrastructure initiatives. With a strong background in engineering, operations, and business leadership, Flowers has held key roles in both public and privately held energy companies.

He earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Christian Brothers University and a Master of Business Administration from the Florida Institute of Technology. Dedicated to shaping the next generation of engineers, he serves on Oakland University’s School of Engineering Advisory Board. Flowers is also a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, reflecting his lifelong commitment to service and leadership.

Ricky Fountain Executive Director Community Education Commission

Ricky Fountain is a lifelong educator, who has served underrepresented communities, students, and adults for the duration of his career. Ricky’s educational journey as a professional began in Detroit, Michigan, as a kindergarten teacher on the west side of the city. Ricky transitioned from teaching students directly to leading schools and school districts. Ricky has served in these roles in traditional public school as well as charter school districts: School Principal, Chief Academic Officer, Assistant Superintendent, and Superintendent. Ricky currently serves as the Executive Director of the Community Education Commission. For Ricky’s lifelong commitment to educating black and brown students and building systems of micro and macro level success, he was honored as the Black Enterprise Modern Man of Distinction in 2019. Ricky has served as a Lecturer at the University of Michigan since 2004. While teaching courses in College Writing, Analytical Thinking, and Race and Ethnicity, Ricky has developed and utilized multiple pedagogical strategies to engage and strengthen the academic capacity of his students within the context of higher education.

Ricky’s passionate about working alongside and supporting emerging and established educators. Ricky has led professional development sessions for Achievement Net, School Works, and MAPSA, (Michigan Association of Public-School Academies).

Darryl Gardner, Ph.D.

Vice Provost for Student Success, Support, and Engagement Division of Academic Affairs

Wayne State University

Dr. Darryl Gardner is the Vice Provost for Student Success, Support, and Engagement at Wayne State University, where he leads the university’s efforts to improve student retention and graduation outcomes. Under his leadership, Wayne State has reached record four- and six-year graduation rates and earned national recognition. He oversees a wide portfolio including academic advising, student support services, pre-college programs, and the Dean of Students’ office.

A proud Detroiter and former foster youth, Dr. Gardner is deeply committed to equity, education, and wellness. He co-founded City Hop Social and City Glow Yoga—initiatives that promote wellness and cultural experiences in Detroit neighborhoods. His passion for youth development extends to his role on the Board of Directors for Orchards Children’s Services, where he chairs the Governance Committee.

Before assuming his current role, Dr. Gardner served on the teaching faculty in Wayne State’s Mathematics Department and directed the Emerging and Rising Scholars programs. He also led the national expansion of the Math Corps to Philadelphia in collaboration with Drexel University.

Rev. Ralph L. Godbee, Jr. Chief of Staff Triumph Church

Michael Everett Hall Attorney/Engineer

Ford Motor Company

Michael Everett Hall is an accomplished attorney, electrical engineer, and entrepreneur with a diverse career across law, engineering, and business. A graduate of Cass Tech and the University of Detroit Mercy, he holds degrees in electrical engineering, business administration, and law.

Michael began his career at General Motors in engineering and planning roles before joining AT&T as an Engineering Manager. While raising his son, Miles, he earned his law degree and launched two ventures: Michael Everett International Inc., supporting artists and musicians, and Michael Everett Hall Law, PLLC, specializing in intellectual property, entertainment, and sports law. He has negotiated deals in music, publishing, sponsorship, and licensing, and counsels clients on brand protection, IP enforcement, and media rights. Currently, he is Corporate Technology Counsel at Ford Motor Company, managing global software and commercial tech agreements.

Michael serves on several nonprofit boards and was named a 2025 AAA Higginbotham Fellow for his work in alternative dispute resolution and legal diversity. Respected for his integrity, he remains a trusted advisor to creatives and companies alike.

James C. Harris Fire Chief City of Detroit Fire Department

Michael K. Jackson II, Esq., C.M., ACE Senior Vice President Planning & Construction, Concessions, Economic Development, and Environmental Services

Wayne County Airport Authority

Michael K. Jackson II, Esq. serves as Senior Vice President for the Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA), which oversees Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) and Willow Run Airport. In this role, he leads departments responsible for construction projects, infrastructure design, facility paving, concession program development, real estate planning, and environmental sustainability efforts, including recycling, de-icing fluid collection, wetland mitigation, and wastewater permit management.

Jackson began his WCAA career as Assistant General Counsel and was later promoted to Vice President of Economic Development. Before joining WCAA, he worked as a Senior Assistant Corporation Counsel for the City of Detroit’s Law Department, where he managed complex commercial transactions. He also served as an Associate Attorney at Miller, Canfield, Paddock & Stone, P.L.C., advising lenders on commercial real estate matters.

Jackson holds a Bachelor of Science and an MBA from Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University and earned his Juris Doctor from Howard University School of Law. He is committed to advancing Detroit’s infrastructure and economic development while prioritizing sustainability and innovation. Jackson resides in Metro Detroit with his wife and their three children.

Rev. Ralph L. Godbee, Jr. began his distinguished career with the Detroit Police Department in 1987, graduating with top honors at just 19 years old. Rising through the ranks, he served as sergeant, lieutenant, inspector, commander, deputy chief, and assistant chief before being appointed the 40th— and youngest—Chief of Police in 2010 by Mayor Dave Bing.

A lifelong Detroiter, he has remained committed to civic engagement through organizations such as the NAACP, the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, and the Police Executive Research Forum.

Godbee earned degrees in law enforcement and organizational leadership, and is a graduate of Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command and the Senior Management Institute for Police. After retiring from DPD in 2012, he led the Detroit Public Schools Community District Police Department from 2018–2020.

Today, Godbee serves as Chief of Staff at Triumph Church under Senior Pastor Solomon W. Kinloch, Jr., where he devotes his life to ministry, public service, and social justice advocacy.

Col. James

F. Grady II

Director Michigan State Police Colonel James F. Grady II brings over 25 years of law enforcement experience to his role as the 20th Director of the Michigan State Police (MSP). As Director, he also serves as Michigan’s State Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security Director. Col. Grady began his MSP career in 1998 as a trooper, serving at the Adrian and Detroit posts. He later joined the Violent Crime Section and the U.S. Marshals fugitive task force before being promoted to sergeant and detective sergeant. In 2015, he became section commander of Fraud Investigations, leading efforts to combat fraud and auto theft statewide.

In 2018, he was named assistant division commander of the Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division, overseeing statewide emergency preparedness and response coordination with the Governor’s Office, FEMA, and DHS. Promoted to captain in 2020, he led the Training Division, focusing on modernizing training programs for new recruits. Col. Grady holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and criminology from Eastern Michigan University and an MBA from Cleary University. A native of Inkster, he resides with his family in Wayne County.

Antonio Green

Director, James H. Cole Funeral Home

President, James H. Cole Legacy Foundation

Antonio Green is a fourth-generation funeral director at James H. Cole Home for Funerals in Detroit.

He graduated from University of Detroit Jesuit High School, earned a bachelor’s in communication from Bowling Green State University, and completed his mortuary science degree at Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. Licensed in Michigan since 2007, Antonio has worked full-time in the family funeral business, leading its modernization and opening a new Northwest Detroit location in 2010.

That same year, he married Angel, and they have three children: Nolan, Berkeley, and Jaxson. In 2019, Antonio founded the James H. Cole Legacy Foundation to support economic growth, children in need, and underserved Detroit schools. In 2021, he published Talk to Me: Understanding the Millennial Mindset, helping businesses engage younger generations.

An early AI advocate in death care, Antonio helps professionals modernize while preserving values. He also advises family businesses and serves on executive boards for Horizon House, D4, and West Grand Boulevard Collaborative.

James C. Harris, known as “The People’s Chief,” dreamed of becoming a firefighter since playing in a fire chief car at age two in Detroit. That dream became reality in 1997 when he was assigned to Rescue Squad-5, one of the nation’s busiest rescue squads. Chief Harris holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Administration and an MBA in Leadership. He graduated from the Carl Holmes Executive Development Institute in Georgia and Eastern Michigan’s Staff and Command Executive Fire Management program.

Appointed Chief of the Community Relations Division in July 2021, he became Public Information Officer (PIO) in January 2022, where he represents Detroit’s Fire Department and shares his passion for public speaking.

A proud father of two daughters, he is past president of the Phoenix of the Detroit Fire Department Tug of War and Public Safety Football teams. Chief Harris is a member of the Rotary Club of Detroit, volunteers with the Masons, Shriners, and Kappa Alpha Psi, and attends Historic Little Rock Baptist Church. He is currently running for Detroit City Council At Large.

Derrick Headd

Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Operations

Detroit Economic Growth Corporation

Derrick Headd has served the City of Detroit for over 30 years, playing a key role in City Council’s review of major tax incentive projects. His detailed analysis helped secure approval for significant developments, including the $397 million Water Square Convention Hotel Ren Zone project, the $3 billion Future of Health Transformational Brownfield, and the $1.5 billion District Detroit Brownfield Plan. Headd co-founded the Bank on Detroit initiative with the late Council member JoAnn Watson, providing financial literacy training to over 1,800 unbanked and underbanked Detroit residents. Beyond his professional work, he has coached youth baseball and AAU basketball, earning recognition as Volunteer of the Year from the Children’s Center of Wayne County and as a John J. McCloy International Fellow.

A proud Kappa Alpha Psi member, Headd holds a BA in Political Science from Wayne State University and is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute. Since July 2024, he has served as Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Operations at the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation.

Gregory Hines

Owner Amada Senior Care

Labrit Jackson, PEM

Chief of Police

DPSCS Department of Public Safety

Labrit Jackson was appointed Chief of Public Safety in September 2022, bringing over 22 years of police experience, including nearly a decade in leadership roles. Throughout his career, Chief Jackson has demonstrated a strong commitment to community safety and proactive law enforcement. Since assuming his current position, he has prioritized building intentional, positive relationships with both students and staff to foster a safer, more supportive environment.

Under his leadership, Chief Jackson has spearheaded several key initiatives to enhance department effectiveness and community trust. These include the certification of school resource officers, ensuring they are fully equipped to serve and protect in educational settings with sensitivity and professionalism. Additionally, he led the development of a Crisis Intervention Team designed to respond effectively to individuals experiencing mental health crises, emphasizing compassionate and appropriate intervention strategies.

Chief Jackson continually seeks to add value and improve the department’s operations, focusing on collaboration, innovation, and responsiveness to community needs. His leadership is characterized by dedication to safety, education, and community engagement.

Dr. Jerlando F. L. Jackson, PhD

Dean of Education

MSU Research Foundation Professor Michigan State University

Dr. Jerlando F. L. Jackson is the ninth dean of the Michigan State University College of Education and an MSU Research Foundation Professor of Education. He also leads the Organizational Disparities Laboratory. An internationally recognized scholar and leader, Dean Jackson is known for driving interdisciplinary collaboration and equity-centered innovation.

Since joining MSU in 2022, he has spearheaded strategic transformation within the College of Education. One of his key initiatives, Advancing Education with Science, integrates STEM, artificial intelligence, and immersive technology into education practices. His leadership has deepened connections across MSU’s colleges and global partners, expanding the college’s impact.

Dean Jackson’s research addresses organizational disparities, workforce diversity, and equitable access to STEM education. He has led nine National Science Foundation-funded interventions and authored over 125 publications, including pioneering work on computing equity.

Gregory Hines has owned and operated Amada Senior Care for over nine years, establishing it as a trusted provider of non-medical in-home care and senior housing solutions. As a nationally certified readmissions professional (NCRP) and a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10K Small Business Program, Gregory brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help seniors and their families navigate the often complex senior care system.

His mission is to enrich lives by delivering compassionate, personalized care that allows seniors to live comfortably and safely, whether at home or in assisted living facilities. Gregory collaborates closely with healthcare providers and community organizations to guide families in selecting the most suitable housing and care options tailored to individual needs.

Under his leadership, Amada Senior Care employs a dedicated team of trained caregivers who uphold Gregory’s vision of respectful, high-quality care. His commitment to nurturing the well-being of seniors continues to make a meaningful impact in the community.

Saul A. Green, Esq. CEO | Michigan Barber School

Former U.S. Attorney | Eastern District OF Michigan

Saul A. Green, a lifelong Detroiter, has devoted his career to community service and legal excellence. He is a member of Miller Canfield’s Commercial Litigation Group, where he advises law enforcement agencies on police reform implementation. From 2008 to 2011, Saul served as Deputy Mayor of Detroit, bringing leadership and vision to the city’s government. His distinguished legal career includes roles as United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan, Wayne County Corporation Counsel, Chief Counsel for HUD’s Detroit Field Office, and Assistant United States Attorney. He also served as an Independent Monitor overseeing police reforms in Cincinnati and was an adjunct professor at the University of Michigan Law School. Additionally, Saul is the Director of The Michigan Barber School.

He earned both his B.A. and law degree from the University of Michigan and is a former president of its alumni association. Saul also served as president of the Wolverine Bar Association. His numerous accolades include the Damon J. Keith Community Spirit Award, State Bar Champion of Justice Award, Federal Bar Association’s Civility Awards, and Michigan Lawyers Weekly Lawyer of the Year and Hall of Fame inductee.

A Fellow of both the American Educational Research Association and the American Association for the Advancement of Science, Dean Jackson is deeply committed to inclusive excellence. He has also launched InformED and ExplorED, two platforms that promote thought leadership, professional development, and knowledge sharing across the education ecosystem.

Rod Liggons

Director, Government Relations Detroit Regional Chamber

Rod Liggons is the Director of Government Relations for the Detroit Regional Chamber, working with elected officials in Detroit and Wayne and Oakland counties to make the Detroit Region a hub for business growth.

Prior to arriving at the Chamber, Liggons worked for nearly two years as Detroit’s District 4 Manager under the Duggan administration. Liggons has also been the Director and Manager of Community Relations for the Detroit Land Bank Authority. Before that, he was the Community Liaison and Communications Officer for the Detroit City Council after spending over a dozen years in various Michigan radio and television newsrooms, including WWJ Newsradio 950, WXYZ, and WDIV-TV 4.

A Detroit native, Liggons attended Detroit Public Schools and is a proud graduate of Eastern Michigan University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in New Media and Journalism from Eastern Michigan University.

In his free time, Liggons enjoys biking across Detroit and along the city’s Riverwalk, cooking, and traveling.

Dr. Derrick Jones Lopez

Asst. Superintendent, High School Transformation

Detroit Public Schools Community District

Tanathan Nelson Restaurant Operations Director

Wayne E. Phillips

Financial Advisor and Owner

Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC

The professional journey of Dr. Derrick Jones Lopez has not taken the traditional path.

At his core, Dr. Lopez is both a teacher and an advocate. Following his graduation from Dartmouth College, he became a middle school teacher. A year later, Dr. Lopez received admission to Cornell Law School and left teaching to pursue what had, theretofore, been his dream to become the next Thurgood Marshall, reigniting the social justice movement. After his judicial clerkship in Detroit for the late Honorable Damon J. Keith and a brief foray into private practice, he returned to the field of education, earning both his Masters’ of Education Administration from Marygrove College and his Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Policy from Michigan State University. With more than thirty years of experience as an educator, Dr. Lopez has worked in urban and suburban communities with students from different socio-economic, racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. Dr. Lopez currently serves as an Assistant Superintendent in the Detroit Public Schools Community District supervising the city’s high schools, embracing the “classroom” rather than the “courtroom” as his mission field.

Jay Love

Vice President, Facilities MGM Grand Detroit

Tanathan Nelson is a seasoned executive and the principal consultant of T. Nelson Consulting, where he provides expert operational and management solutions for restaurants nationwide. With decades of experience in restaurant operations, brand management, and business development, Tanathan specializes in improving profitability, streamlining systems, and elevating guest experiences. His career highlights include overseeing the successful opening of over 30 restaurants, directing multi-unit operations across major markets, and driving revenue growth through innovative leadership and strategic planning.

As a trusted consultant, Tanathan partners with restaurant CEOs and franchise owners to assess challenges, implement solutions, and deliver measurable improvements in hospitality, employee performance, and operational standards. His commitment to excellence has earned him recognition as a transformational leader who drives both financial success and team development.

Beyond his professional achievements, Tanathan is deeply dedicated to ministry and serves as an Elder at Second Ebenezer Church. His faith and leadership extend beyond the boardroom, reflecting a lifelong passion for service, mentorship, and community impact. Whether guiding business leaders or supporting his church family, Tanathan exemplifies integrity, resilience, and a heart for helping others thrive.

Dr. Phares A. Noel II

Jay Love is an accomplished facilities management executive with over 12 years of experience in the hospitality and entertainment industry. As Vice President of Facilities for MGM’s Midwest properties, including MGM Grand Detroit, Jay leads with a strong focus on optimizing operations, enhancing guest experiences, and driving long-term infrastructure improvements. In this role since June 2022, he has spearheaded key initiatives to elevate service delivery for both internal stakeholders and external guests.

Prior to his current position, Jay served as Director of Facilities at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, where he managed asset maintenance and utilized customer feedback to improve the guest experience. He also held leadership roles at The Signature at MGM Grand and Luxor Hotel & Casino, where he gained a reputation for strategic oversight and operational excellence.

From overseeing large-scale maintenance operations to fostering service innovation, Jay brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and dedication to every property he supports. His career reflects a deep commitment to delivering high standards in facility operations across premier hospitality destinations.

Razzaaq McConner

Vice President of Purchasing

Adient Razzaaq McConner serves as Vice President of Purchasing –Americas at Adient, where he leads direct and indirect procurement, supplier quality, diversity, and relationship management.

He oversees operations across 42 plants, a team of over 100 professionals and managing a global supplier base of 5,000 with an annual spend exceeding $1.3 billion.

With over two decades of experience at OEMs and tier-one suppliers, Razzaaq has built a career rooted in leadership, integrity, and impact. He previously served as Executive on Loan to Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council for Stellantis and is a graduate of Stellantis’ Purchasing and Supplier Quality Leadership Development Program.

A trailblazer, Razzaaq is the first African American to hold the VP of Purchasing role at Adient/Johnson Controls. He co-chairs Adient’s African Ancestry Business Resource Group and advises Wayne State University’s Supply Chain program. In 2023, he was honored as an Automotive News Champion of Diversity. Born in Pontiac and raised in Pontiac and Charlotte, NC. Razzaaq holds a B.S. in Marketing from Oakland University and an MBA from Wayne State

Jason McGuire

CEO Riverside Marina

President & CEO

Diversified Engineering Concepts

Dr. Phares A. Noel II is a dedicated educator, mentor, and community leader with over 40 years of experience in engineering, higher education, and public service. A proud graduate of Detroit Public Schools and Cass Technical High School, he has devoted his life to advancing education, mentoring youth, and serving his community.

He is President and CEO of Diversified Engineering Concepts, LLC, a Detroit-based firm providing engineering and architectural services to commercial and industrial clients. Dr. Noel also serves as an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Oakland University, where he inspires and guides future engineers. He has held leadership roles on nonprofit and advisory boards, including First Independence Bank and the Michigan Mortgage Industry Advisory Board. A committed member of Hope United Methodist Church, Dr. Noel has served in leadership roles within the congregation.

A Life Member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (Gamma Lambda Chapter), he received the “Architect of Change” Award for his impact. Dr. Noel and his wife of over 40 years, Rev. Karen Noel, are proud parents of two adult children and grandparents to Ellebee Sinclair.

Mayor Byron H. Nolen

Mayor City of Inkster, Michigan

Mayor Byron H. Nolen is a dynamic leader, experienced attorney, and lifelong resident of Inkster, Michigan. He was first elected in 2015; now serving his second term as Mayor, he has led the city through a remarkable transformation, revitalizing the economy, restoring public trust, and reimagining its future.

Deeply rooted in the community, Mayor Nolen works closely with block clubs, youth, and senior groups. His early experiences growing up in a community challenged by high unemployment and underfunded schools inspired his lifelong commitment to public service. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and his Juris Doctor from the University of Detroit Mercy.

A skilled attorney with nearly 30 years of legal experience, Nolen is also a proud member of the African American Mayors Association, U.S. Council of Mayors, National League of Cities, and Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative. His forward-looking agenda emphasizes affordable housing, commercial growth, and technologicalinnovation to position Inkster as a vibrant regional hub.

Jason A. McGuire is the owner and CEO of Riverside Marina—a Detroit-based boating hub—operated through his company, ABC Professional Enterprises. Since taking over in 2012, he uniquely stands as Michigan’s only African American certified marina manager and one of just 11 Black certified marina operators in the U.S.

A Detroit native, Jason developed a deep passion for boating and mechanics from a young age. Under his stewardship, a marina once in bankruptcy has been reinvigorated: now serving one of the country’s largest African American boating communities—with nearly 222 active slips and a long waiting list. His leadership has propelled record revenues, including a 22 % surge during the pandemic.

Jason is focused on legacy building—passing marine skills to his three sons and opening doors for youth. Through partnerships like the “Surge” marine skills program with the Great Lakes Boat Building School, he’s helping inner-city youth explore boating careers.

As a member of the Detroit Motor City Yacht Club, Harley enthusiast, and lifelong learner, Jason continues his mission: enriching Detroit’s boating culture and empowering the next generation.

Gerald Parker

President and CEO

Exquise Fire & Safety

Gerald Parker is the CEO/President of Exquise Incorporated, dba Exquise Fire & Safety. He has been in Fire Protection, Life Safety, Security and Emergency Management for 23 years. Perfecting a certain skillset has aided him in saving lives and property in the life safety industry. Gerald has worked as a fire safety technician for the following companies: Cintas Fire Protection as a Fire Service Technician in the Midwest; Simplex/Grinell as a Fire Service Technician/Inspector;

ADT as a Fire/Security Service Technician in Texas. Prior to that, Gerald worked for BFPE International where he got his overall experience at installing, inspecting, testing, servicing and sales in the total fire Protection Industry on the east coast.

Gerald is a Certified Fire Protection Specialist and is NICET Certified, not to mention he holds a host of other licenses and certifications in fire protection and life safety. As a Navy veteran, Gerald has learned discipline and structure, which is key to his success.

Ray Moulden

Wayne E. Phillips is a seasoned financial advisor based in Detroit, Michigan, affiliated with Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. With nearly 30 years of experience, Wayne is dedicated to helping clients navigate the complexities of financial planning with personalized strategies designed to meet their unique goals.

He holds multiple professional designations—including MS, MPAS™, CRPC®, AAMS®, AWMA®, AIF®, and AEP®—reflecting his commitment to ongoing education and expertise across a broad range of financial disciplines. Wayne’s extensive knowledge enables him to provide comprehensive services such as retirement planning, asset management, estate planning, tax strategies, and risk management.

Known for his client-focused approach, Wayne takes the time to understand each client’s individual circumstances and longterm objectives, crafting tailored solutions to help secure their financial future. His dedication to building lasting relationships and delivering informed guidance has earned him the trust of a diverse clientele throughout Detroit and beyond. Wayne’s commitment to excellence and integrity continues to drive his success as a respected financial advisor.

Dr. Michael S. Pieh

Physician

Sierra Medical Clinic

Dr. Michael S. Pieh is a board-certified internist with over 20 years of experience, currently practicing at Sierra Medical Clinic in Detroit, Michigan. He is affiliated with Corewell Health Beaumont Grosse Pointe Hospital and is dedicated to delivering compassionate, comprehensive care to patients across the region.

Dr. Pieh earned his medical degree from the A.M. Dogliotti School of Medicine and has built a career rooted in patient-centered care and clinical excellence. At Sierra Medical Clinic, he focuses on diagnosing and managing a wide range of adult health concerns, with expertise in treating hypertension, high blood pressure, diabetes, and depression.

Known for his thoughtful and thorough approach, Dr. Pieh emphasizes preventive care and long-term wellness, working closely with his patients to create personalized treatment plans. His commitment to fostering strong patient relationships has earned him the trust and respect of those he serves.

Dr. Pieh’s mission is to empower individuals to take control of their health by offering high-quality care that supports both physical and emotional well-being in every stage of life.

Dr. Norris C. Polk Physician

PEDS Urgent

Care

Dr. Norris C. Polk is a nationally respected pediatrician, executive, and community health strategist with over four decades of experience advancing equitable, patient-centered healthcare in Detroit. He is dedicated to youth and family wellness and has held key leadership roles in public and private health sectors, blending clinical expertise with a commitment to community transformation. In 2025, Dr. Polk led the launch of PEDS Urgent Care Detroit, the city’s first standalone pediatric urgent care center for newborns through young adults up to age 21. As Chief Medical Officer, he also leads Answering the Call Medical Consulting Services PLLC and serves as President of More Than Medicine, a nonprofit he founded to promote advocacy, generational health, and wraparound services.

Dr. Polk previously served as Associate Chief Medical Officer and Chief Compliance Officer at Detroit Community Health Connection, leading quality initiatives and mentoring future leaders. He’s also worked with Blue Cross Blue Shield, the City of Detroit Health Department, and Henry Ford Medical Group He is a graduate of Meharry College and Jackson State University.

Rodney Prater

CEO Prater Commercial Carpentry

Rodney Prater, a proud Detroit native and lifelong resident, has spent the past 34 years shaping the landscape of Southeast Michigan through his dedication to carpentry and construction. From his early days as a hands-on tradesman to his current role as President, Rodney’s career reflects a deep commitment to excellence, leadership, and community impact.

His work spans a wide range of industries—including healthcare, automotive, sports, and hospitality—each project showcasing his craftsmanship and strategic vision. As the leader of a Detroit Headquartered - MBE Construction Firm, Rodney has carried forward the legacy started by his father, building not only a successful business but a foundation for future generations. Rodney believes true success is measured not just by the structures built, but by the opportunities created and the lives positively influenced along the way. His leadership style is grounded in humility, perseverance, and a strong sense of purpose.

A proud husband and father of six, Rodney Prater continues to lead with integrity, vision and Faith in God. He is, in every sense, a Man of Excellence.

Michigan Chronicle

CEO Moulden Allstate Agency, LLC

Ray brings over 40 years of combined experience in marketing, sales, advertising, and customer service. He has held numerous leadership roles in sales, marketing, and management across various companies. Ray currently serves on the board of the Michigan chapter of the National Entrepreneurs Association and is actively involved in several civic and charitable organizations. These include the YMCA Executive Board, Detroit Regional Chamber, Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau, Southfield Chamber of Commerce, and Jewish Vocational Services. He also serves on the Michigan Automobile Insurance Placement Facility (MAIPF) Board of Governors, appointed by the Director of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services. Ray is deeply committed to community service. He supports the St. David Food Bank, the Gun Buyback Program, and the Southfield Public Arts Commission, and provided meals to Southfield, Oak

Clarence Rose Senior Sales Executive

Arrow Strategies

David L.

Stone, ESQ.

President and Co-Founder

Trion Solutions, Inc.

Edwin E. Tatem, P.E.

Senior Vice President

Engineering

WSP

With over 30 years in the staffing and workforce solutions industry,

He is a business development leader with a passion for connecting people to purpose-driven work. He has successfully supported clients across diverse sectors—including call centers, IT, healthcare, and professional services—helping them navigate workforce challenges with strategy, empathy, and results.

He is currently serving as a leader at Arrow Strategies, he specialize in building long-term partnerships that align talent with opportunity. His approach is relationship-driven, with a keen understanding of how the right people power organizational success.

For over two decades, He has mentored youth and young men— both in his community and through his church—using Bible study, basketball, and real-life conversation to build character and direction. He has worked with college athletes, helping them navigate life after sports, and has also served as an encourager with Special Olympics, supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities

He has been driven to lead with faith, service, and vision—believing every life is a part of a bigger, more meaningful calling.

Raymond A. Scott, MPH

Deputy Director, Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental City of Detroit

Raymond Scott is a seasoned Deputy Director with over 20 years of leadership experience in government administration. He currently oversees a comprehensive department that manages zoning, environmental services, plan review, licensing and permits, code compliance, and trade inspections. Under his direction, the department operates with a $28 million budget and a workforce of 280 employees, ensuring efficient and responsive service delivery to the public.

Raymond is highly skilled in policy development, economic development, customer service, and nonprofit outreach. His collaborative leadership style and commitment to operational excellence have helped drive innovation and transparency across various regulatory and compliance sectors.

He holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) in Environmental and Industrial Health Management from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and brings a deep understanding of public health principles to his work in local government.

In addition to his professional duties, Raymond serves on several boards, including Chairman of the Board of Appeals, Chairman of the Detroit Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, Chairman of the Northeast Michigan Jurisdiction Pastor and Elders Council, and Board Member of Northwest Community Programs.

Andre Smith

Photo Journalist/Professor

Wayne County Community College District

Andre Smith is a celebrated photojournalist and educator with over 35 years of experience capturing the essence of culture, community, and history. Known for telling powerful stories through photography, Andre has worked with many of Detroit’s most iconic organizations and events, making him an ideal participant in Stellantis’ African-American Network event during Black History Month. His work has been showcased at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History and the Detroit Public Library’s Main Branch. In February 2025, he will debut a hip-hop exhibit at Wayne County Community College District, where he has taught photography for over a decade. A proud collaborator with institutions like the Motown Museum, Detroit NAACP, and Detroit Public Schools, Andre has also worked with national organizations such as the Democratic National Committee and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. He received a Testimonial Resolution from the Detroit City Council for American Odyssey, a photographic journey into the Obama presidency, and the Spirit of Detroit Award for his leadership and service. His artistry bridges media, academia, and community, preserving and promoting African-American culture through every frame.

Diallo Robert Smith

President & CEO

Life Remodeled

As a native Detroiter, Diallo Smith, President and CEO of Life Remodeled, understands the challenges and opportunities that the city possesses. With a team just as passionate as him, Diallo’s leadership guides the organization to work with communities to create sustainable revitalization in Detroit neighborhoods in four core areas at its two Opportunity Hub centers: youth education, economic advancement, health and wellness, and technology.

Diallo is a graduate of Cass Technical High School. He went on to pursue a bachelor’s degree in finance at Wilberforce University in Ohio and a Master’s of Divinity degree from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX. His financial expertise led him to careers at ExxonMobil, BP Amoco, and IBM Consulting until he decided to return home to Detroit, where he founded and was a small business owner of Drive Ping Pong Bar & Grille. His passion for creating equity and providing opportunity in Detroit then led him to the work he does now with Life Remodeled. Diallo and his wife, Dr. Jameel Smith, a Michigan Chronicle Women of Excellence honoree, enjoy live music, exploring new restaurants, and being with their two children.

David L. Stone was the owner and CEO of an HR-administration company that merged with a similar firm owned by Upshaw to create Trion Solutions. Trion is a certified minority-owned corporation and the largest privately owned Professional Employer Organization (PEOs) in the state of Michigan. In addition to his management role as Trion President, he is a highly regarded attorney, specializing in human resources and other corporate-workplace issues. Previous to running his own companies, he spent several years in the Litigation Department at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Michigan, assisting counsel in all aspects of trial litigation.

He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Corporate Finance from Western Michigan University, for which he is a long-time WMU Alumni Association Admission Ambassador. He earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law, at which he has served as a Mercy Law Moot Court Moderator. He is a member of the State Bar of Michigan.

Everett Stone

Sr. Vice-President and CFO Vanguard CDC Everett Stone was born in Fayetteville, Tennessee, and moved to Detroit in 1969. He is a proud graduate of David Mackenzie High School and a Stag4Life. In 1966, he was part of the first class to integrate Fayetteville’s public schools peacefully at Robert E. Lee Elementary School. Everett began college studying engineering at the University of Michigan and later earned a B.B.A. in Accounting from Eastern Michigan University. He is a Certified Public Accountant with over 40 years of experience, a Certified Housing Finance Consultant, and a former certified contract advisor for the NFLPA and NBPA. Everett is Senior Vice President and CFO of Vanguard Community Development Corporation, where he also serves as Housing Director. Vanguard has contributed to Detroit’s Historic North End for over 30 years through housing, economic development, and community engagement.

Everett is a Life Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, initiated at Sigma Chapter in 1973. He is Treasurer and Board Member of the Kappa Detroit Foundation and active in the Detroit Alumni Chapter. He and his wife Pamela have three children and one grandchild.

Lorenzo Suter President & CEO

McLaren Oakland

Dr. Lorenzo Suter is a seasoned healthcare executive known for leading transformative change across dynamic healthcare organizations. With a steadfast commitment to service and patient-centered care, he brings deep expertise in strategic planning and operational excellence across teaching institutions, for-profit, nonprofit, urban, and rural acute care settings. Drawing from a personal journey that includes overcoming homelessness, Dr. Suter uses his lived experience to inspire others through impactful keynote speeches. He has spoken at prominent events such as PHP, Youth for Christ, the JAG Event at Sweetwater, Ben Con, and delivered a memorable Purdue University – Fort Wayne commencement address titled “Discovering Your Leadership Potential.”

Dr. Suter is also a published author of six books, which have sold millions of copies. His titles include the motivational Beat Adversity and Aspire to Live, the faith-based Call Me an As, the children’s book Lil Cuz, and the reflective The Tr-Youth. His works have resonated with diverse audiences, offering wisdom and resilience. In recognition of his leadership and impact, Dr. Suter was named Top CEO of the Year by the Globee Awards in 2021

Khali Sweeney

Founder & CEO

Detroit Boxing Gym

Khali Sweeney is the founder and CEO of the Downtown Boxing Gym (DBG), one of the nation’s leading out-of-school time programs, located on Detroit’s east side. Since launching DBG in 2007, Khali has dedicated his life to creating a safe, inspiring space where students can thrive academically and personally.

A passionate youth mentor and visionary community leader, Khali built DBG to help young people avoid the struggles he faced growing up. His student-first approach, mentorship model, and commitment to team-building have driven the nonprofit’s success in Detroit and its expanding national reputation.

Under his leadership, DBG boasts a 100% high school graduation rate, with 98% of students pursuing college or career paths. Recognized by the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Library of Congress, and philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, DBG is a proven leader in youth development.

Khali has been named a CNN Hero, Michigan’s ‘Mentor of the Year,’ and a Detroit Lions NFL Inspire Changemaker. He completed Harvard Business School’s Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management and is featured in the Detroit Historical Museum’s permanent collection. Learn more at dbgdetroit.org.

Edwin E. Tatem is Senior Vice President, Business Line Executive, and Michigan Chair of WSP USA, a global engineering firm with a 140-year legacy that has shaped transformative infrastructure, including Detroit’s Rosa Parks Transit Center, and the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel.

Tatem holds a Master of Science from Wayne State University and a Bachelor of Science from Pratt Institute. He serves on Wayne State’s College of Engineering Board of Visitors and Civil Engineering Board of Advisors. He is the principal in charge of the Gordie Howe International Bridge and Brent Spence Bridge in Cincinnati and advises on the Chicago Transit Authority Red Line Extension. He also led the MDOT I-75 Modernization and I-75 Ambassador Bridge Gateway projects. His work represents more than $15 billion in infrastructure development.

Previously, he held leadership roles at the Road Commission of Macomb County and the Michigan Department of Transportation. A transportation engineering expert, Tatem has served on the Governor’s Transition Team for Transportation, the Construction Code Commission, and the Traffic Safety Advisory Commission. He and his wife, Margie, have two daughters, Isabela

Calvin Toone

have positioned Vestco as a trusted leader in the region’s real estate sector.

In addition to his corporate role, Alphonso serves as CEO and Chairman of the Midwest Resource Development Agency, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing public welfare in Metro Detroit. The agency focuses on addressing critical social issues such as poverty and unemployment through targeted educational programs and community initiatives. With a strong passion for community development, Alphonso combines his business acumen with a deep commitment to social impact. His dual leadership roles reflect a dedication to fostering economic opportunity and improving quality of life throughout the Detroit metropolitan area.

Boyd White, III

Member/Partner

Dykema

Boyd White is a skilled trial attorney whose talent shines brightest in the courtroom, where he dismantles opposing arguments and persuades judges and juries on behalf of his clients. While law is his profession, high-stakes product liability litigation, insurance defense, and complex commercial disputes are his craft.

Boyd has extensive experience defending automotive OEMs in individual, class action, and collective lawsuits. He thrives in discovery and pre-trial proceedings—deposing witnesses, consulting experts, and laying the groundwork for trial. Known for his unmatched preparation and sharp cross-examination skills, Boyd influences negotiations while always preparing to win at trial.

With a background in theater and boxing, Boyd cultivated the presence, discipline, and agility he brings into the courtroom. After years in private practice and serving in the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office, he joined Dykema, where he focuses on achieving clients’ objectives with integrity and precision. Boyd also serves as a pastor for a growing Detroit congregation. For him, both the courtroom and pulpit are spaces to tell compelling stories, connect with people, and advocate for justice—combining intellect, compassion, and conviction to serve others.

In a time when honor, morale, and dignity have seemingly become lost virtues, there remains a remnant of men who stand as beacons of light. It is in honor of this sentiment that the Michigan Chronicle salutes Men of Excellence. The African American male has always been looked upon to provide for his family, protect and serve his country, and lead in times of uncertainty. He is called upon to train boys to be men, while setting the bar for our young women as to where their standards should be. The essence of a man is never defined by gender alone, but by the content of his character. Men of Excellence are those who exemplify strength by standing firm in the face of adversity, leadership in periods of struggle, compassion in times of peril, and integrity in the midst of opposition. Through proven success and selfless dedication to the community, these exemplary men are lauded as role models for the next generation of excellence. They are our community and business leaders, husbands, fathers, and protectors. The Michigan Chronicle salutes each and every one of the 2025 Men of Excellence Honorees.

C ity . L ife . Style .

B1 | June 25 - July 1, 2025

Highland Park Invites Public to Help Shape the City’s Future During Economic Strategy and Branding Open House

By Amber Ogden STAFF WRITER

With the hum of possibility in the air and a vision for revitalization on the horizon, the City of Highland Park called on residents, business owners, and community supporters to participate in an essential civic conversation about its future. On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., city officials held a drop-in Economic Strategy and Branding Open House at 138 Cortland Street. The event was designed to gather community feedback as Highland Park embarks on an ambitious update of its Economic Development Strategy, Master Plan, and Zoning Ordinance, three critical pillars that will shape how the city looks, functions, and thrives in the years to come.

Donavan Smith, Principal Planner with McKenna and planning manager for the City of Highland Park, highlighted that he is particularly excited about the community and resident input, which provides valuable feedback on what people want to see as he heads up the progress.

“We’ve done three events so far including a stakeholder event and it’s with a lot of state a state-level partners on bringing resources,” Smith said.

“We did the second with the business community. And then this is the actual third public-facing event today.”

The open house promised a welcoming, informal environment where attendees stopped by anytime within the three-hour window to learn more about the planning process, ask questions, and share their ideas with planners and city officials. Stations were set up for each of the plan components, along with opportunities to give feedback through surveys, suggestion boards, and interactive maps.

In attendance with the local residents were Mayor Glenda McDonald, Mama Shu of the Homework House, and local business owner Martell Mason of Sepia Coffee, all of whom are looking forward to what’s to come to the Highland Park area.

The effort to update Highland Park’s guiding documents comes at a critical time in the city’s evolution. Once a thriving industrial hub known as the birthplace of mass automobile production, Highland Park is now carving out a new identity, one rooted in innovation, culture, sustainability, and community resilience.

This transition of progress will pose challenges as the city’s Master Plan, which acts as a long-term roadmap for land use and development, was last updated over a decade ago. Highland Park has faced ongoing concerns regarding water and streetlights for some time. Much has changed since then, from housing patterns and economic pressures to environmental priorities and digital infrastructure needs.

“We want to bring a fresh vision, a fresh set of eyes, to the full planning process,” Smith said.

“This economic development strategic plan is that first step and laying the framework on what the vision, the goals and objectives for the city from an economic development lens.”

A huge part of the progress is the 1.6-mile stretch of the Joe Louis Greenway, which will wind through the historic community, expanding the existing trail system designed to connect neighborhoods throughout the city. Construction on the Greenway began in 2021, and with the support of totaling $20 million in American Rescue Plan funds from the Biden administration, significant progress has been made over the years.

In January 2025, Leona Medley, Executive

See HIGHLAND PARK Page B-2

Scholarships to Salaries?

NCAA’s Billion-Dollar Settlement Redefines College Athletics

By Darryl Jacobs ESPN & CBS Sports Networks

After spending a few days at the recent NACDA (National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics) conference in Orlando, Florida, the energy in the rooms was unmistakable. College athletics is in the middle of its most profound transformation in over a century. While administrators discussed NIL reforms, athlete well-being, and the evolution of conference affiliations, the buzz that couldn’t be ignored was around the pending antitrust case facing the NCAA. Now, that anticipation must be turned into action.

The NCAA has agreed to a landmark $2.8 billion settlement to resolve a class-action antitrust lawsuit brought by former college athletes who competed between 2016 and 2024. It’s a decision that not only provides compensation for past athletes but also redefines the financial relationship between student-athletes and the institutions they represent.

This case, ruled on by Judge Claudia Wilken in the Ninth Circuit, challenges the very foundation of amateurism in college sports. The fallout? We’re entering a new era where athletes will participate in revenue sharing, sign contracts, and perhaps even bargain collectively — a scenario that was previously unthinkable just five years ago.

A Historic Payout

At the heart of the settlement is a long-standing grievance: that college athletes generated billions of dollars in revenue for the NCAA, schools, and conferences — while receiving no direct share of that income. The settlement addresses this by offering a $2.8 billion pool to compensate those who played during the specified window and opted into the case.

These are not small numbers. Thousands of former athletes — in sports ranging from football and basketball to volleyball and track — will now be eligible for back pay. For many, this is not just about money but about validation.

The settlement acknowledges that their labor had real value. But the settlement is more than retroactive justice. It introduces a new framework that may define the future of college sports.

The Birth of a Revenue-Sharing Era

As part of the agreement, NCAA member institutions that choose to participate will be permitted to share revenue directly with current student-athletes. Specifically, schools can allocate up to 22% of their revenue from television contracts, ticket sales, and corporate sponsorships toward athlete compensation.

For schools in the Power Five conferences — the financial heavyweights of college athletics — this amounts to an estimated $20.5 million per institution annually. That’s a dramatic shift from the traditional scholarship-based model.

It’s important to note that this is a cap, not a requirement. Schools are not obligated to pay the full amount, but the cap sets the maximum they can offer under the revenue-sharing plan. There’s also a 4% escalator clause built in for the first two years, meaning the cap could reach 30% or more within a few seasons, depending on the financial health of the athletic departments.

When combined with the traditional scholarship package — tuition, housing, meals, and cost-of-attendance stipends — the NCAA estimates that athletes could now receive compensation representing nearly 50% of the revenue they help generate. While not equivalent to professional salaries, it means a significant leap toward fair compensation.

Contracts and Buyouts: A New Business Model

With this new structure, schools will also have the ability to issue contracts to student-athletes. These agreements could include buyout clauses, length-of-commitment terms, and performance conditions — similar to contracts in professional sports leagues. This formalization of athlete agreements could pave the way for collective bargaining, a significant step towards

empowering student-athletes. Suppose future legal rulings or congressional action classify student-athletes as employees. In that case, this shift will enable athletes to negotiate collectively on issues such as healthcare, working conditions, and guaranteed compensation, ushering in a new era of optimism for athlete rights.

For now, employment status remains a legal gray area, but the presence of contracts brings college athletics one step closer to a labor model than a purely educational one.

Oversight and Transparency: New Governance Structures

To ensure that this new financial model doesn’t spiral out of control, the NCAA has agreed to establish a College Sports Commission to oversee the implementation and enforcement of the revenue-sharing system. This independent body will help manage compliance, verify payment structures, and create accountability for programs across all divisions. Additionally, the accounting and auditing giant Deloitte will play a critical role by operating a national NIL clearinghouse. Under the new guidelines, any Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals valued over $600 must be submitted for review, bringing a new level of oversight and transparency to college athletics.

This vetting process aims to ensure that deals are based on fair market value and not being used as recruiting tools or illegal pay-for-play schemes. Third-party collectives — which have played a central role in many NIL operations to date — will still be allowed, but their activity will be subject to similar scrutiny.

The hope is that Deloitte’s involvement will bring standardization and transparency to a space that, until now, has been chaotic, inconsistent, and largely unregulated.

Pressure Builds for Congressional Intervention

One of the biggest questions on ev-

See SETTLEMENT Page B-2

Detroit Opens Cooling Centers to Keep Residents Safe During Extreme Heat

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

The heat is not just creeping in—it’s already here, and Detroit isn’t waiting to act. With weekend forecasts showing temperatures climbing into the upper 90s and the heat index making it feel even more suffocating, the City of Detroit has moved quickly to open cooling centers to protect residents most at risk.

Excessive heat like this brings real danger, especially for elders, infants, those with chronic health conditions, and people living without reliable air conditioning. That’s why the Detroit Health Department, alongside the city’s Recreation Department, is keeping designated spaces open across the city for residents to cool down and take a break from what’s shaping up to be a dangerous stretch of weather.

Three locations will be extending their hours and opening all weekend through Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.— Patton Recreation Center on Woodmere, Heilmann Recreation Center on Brock, and the Northwest Activities Center on Meyers. These sites were chosen intentionally and positioned across the city to give residents more accessible relief.

All other city recreation centers will remain open during their normal weekday and weekend hours. That includes centers like Adams Butzel on Lyndon and Coleman A. Young on Robert Bradby, both of which offer all-day weekday access and limited Saturday hours. Farwell, Kemeny, and Williams Recreation Centers will also be available, giving families multiple options to step away from the rising temperatures.

Additionally, Detroit Public Library branches will double as heat relief locations, operating during their usual business hours. Each branch has air conditioning and places to sit and rest for those needing a moment of shelter from the heat. Residents can find library hours at www.detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations.

Chief Public Health Officer Denise Fair Razo stressed the importance of taking this heat seriously, especially for vulnerable communities. “We want all our residents to stay safe by using the cooling centers as a place of relief from the extreme heat,” she said. She also encouraged Detroiters to check in on neighbors, especially seniors and families with young children, and not to forget about pets, who also need cool air and water during high-heat days.

This uplifts the importance of community health. It’s imperative to make sure no one suffers quietly because they didn’t have a safe place to go. Extreme heat is a public health emergency—one that doesn’t always look dramatic but can turn deadly without warning.

The Detroit Health Department is urging residents to stay indoors as much as possible between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. when sun exposure and heat levels are highest. Residents are encouraged to drink water frequently, wear light clothing, and be aware of early signs of heat-related illness. That includes lightheadedness, nausea, confusion, or unusually fast or slow heart rates. When those symptoms start showing up, it’s already a warning sign that something is wrong.

For those seeking more information, the city’s official website—www.detroitmi.gov/health—includes a list of ways to stay safe during extreme weather. The Department of Homeland Security & Emergency Management also has a hub of resources for weather-related safety at www.detroitmi.gov/DHSEM under the “severe weather” section.

This heatwave is expected to linger into early next week, and Detroiters are urged to plan accordingly. Whether that means adjusting outdoor plans, taking extra care of elders or children, or simply making a note of the closest cooling center, now is the time to prepare. City officials are clear: everyone deserves access to safety, hydration, and dignity in this weather.

For families, for elders, for the unhoused, and for every person trying to make it through this stretch—Detroit has cooling centers ready. Let’s make sure the word gets out.

the future look like?”

“We understand where we’ve been. We understand where we are,” Chambers said.

Director of the Joe Louis Greenway Partnership, announced that the organization had received a $10.5 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration. The funding, awarded through the Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program (ATIIP), represents a transformative investment in the Joe Louis Greenway and moves the city closer to realizing its vision of connected communities, equitable access, and active transportation options for all.

“The Partnership remains committed to supporting community, fostering collaboration, and advocating for projects that uplift and unite our neighborhoods,” Medley said.

Highland Park Resident Ken Chambers moved to the area in 2015, but he has been in the Detroit area since 1990. As a result, he has seen firsthand the ups and downs of his neighborhood and remains vocal about the positive changes happening around him but asks the question, “What does

“We want to look forward to the future and see how we can develop this community and become a greater part of the communities around us.”

In addition to policy updates, the city is also working on a new branding initiative to more clearly and confidently tell the story of Highland Park, including its history, assets, and aspirations.

In January, Mayor McDonald announced the city’s plans for a new beginning in Highland Park with “The City in Motion” plan, which will unfold over the years, including a a new landscape of lights planned for the city as well.

“Our goal is to increase our tax base. Our goal is to continue to move towards getting the city up and running again to a status where citizens are proud to be here,” McDonald said during the press conference.

“Everything that’s going on in this city is something that has already been vetted, has been moved, and we’re

RECESS25

trying to make sure that it continues.

An ongoing resident’s concern, mentioned repeatedly on Tuesday, was infrastructure improvement.

“We got to do something with the streets,” Chambers said.

“There’s a lot of things we got to do in terms of repairing the streets, including the infrastructure.

City officials emphasized that the open house is just the beginning of the process. Following this initial session, additional community engagement events will take place throughout the summer and fall, including youth workshops, neighborhood walking tours, and pop-ups at local businesses and community centers.

“We can only do as well as our communities do. If our communities need help, we want to help them. The better they do, the better we do,” Smith said.

“We’re going to be here, and we’re writing it, we’re getting the guidance, and we’re implementing it.”

For more information, residents can visit the City of Highland Park’s https://www.highlandparkmi.gov/ or contact the planning department at (313) 555-0123.

Settlement

From page B-1

eryone’s mind following this settlement is whether Congress will finally step in and make it a law. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have criticized the NCAA’s inability to govern its evolving system proactively, and this settlement may provide the push needed for legislative action.

Federal intervention could help resolve lingering questions about:

■ The employee status of athletes

■ The legality of third-party collectives

■ National NIL enforcement standards

■ Title IX implications of direct athlete compensation

By acting now, Congress could help create a uniform playing field for all schools

— whether they’re in the SEC or the Ivy League — and prevent a patchwork of conflicting state laws from further complicating the landscape.

Challenges Ahead:

Enforcement and Equity

While the settlement represents a massive step forward, serious challenges remain. Chief among them: enforcement. The NCAA has struggled to apply consistent discipline across its member institutions, and skeptics wonder whether the new commission and Deloitte will have the authority to crack down on abuses — especially at schools with deep pockets and intense competitive pressure.

There are also equity

concerns. Will non-revenue sports receive a fair share of compensation? Will women’s sports benefit equally from this model? Will mid-major schools be able to keep up, or will this accelerate the gap between the haves and have-nots?

These are questions with no easy answers. However, what is clear is that the status quo is gone.

A New Chapter in College Athletics

As I left the NACDA conference and reflected on what’s ahead, it was clear to me that college sports are entering a new chapter — one defined by the inspiring empowerment of athletes, institutional accountability, and the promising clarity of the law.

The $2.8 billion settlement isn’t just a check — it’s a declaration of accountability. It tells athletes, fans, and institutions alike that college sports can no longer profit from unpaid labor while claiming to protect “amateurism.” That term is now outdated.

College athletics has always been about passion, pride, and performance. Now, it’s also about fairness. And for the thousands of athletes who gave everything without ever cashing a check, this moment is long overdue.

Darryl Jacobs is an ESPN & CBS Sports Network Commentator/Analyst, former successful college head coach, athletic administrator, and professional sports executive with over two decades of experience in collegiate athletics and professional sports.

From page B-1

Highland Park resident Ken Chambers during the Open House on Tuesday, 6/10/2025 Highland Park

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3 Seasonal Prep Tips to Help Homeowners Weather Summer Storms

(StatePoint) From unexpected downpours to damaging winds, homeowners should be prepared for emergency repairs when storms appear this summer.

A recent nationwide survey of 1,000 homeowners by T-Rex Tape, a leading maker of premium repair tapes, revealed that 100% of respondents have experienced damage requiring immediate attention following extreme weather events, with summer leading as the season with the most extreme weather events (37%).

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Although nearly two-thirds of them (64%) report they’re not fully prepared to make emergency fixes, all still attempted a DIY repair when it was needed. With the right tools and knowledge, quick action can help minimize damage and buy valuable time before professional repairs are possible.

To help homeowners manage emergency storm cleanup and repairs, Kerry Haugh, director of product marketing for T-Rex Brand, shares some proactive strategies: Take Preventative Precautions

According to the survey, high winds (49%) topped the list of weather-related culprits, followed by falling limbs and roof damage (42%), clogged gutters (32%), and structural issues from debris (28%). Water leaks also frequently occur inside the home and affect a sizable number of homeowners (30%).

Haugh suggests that preventative maintenance is one of the most effective ways to reduce emergency damage. “Homeowners should regularly check roofs and siding for any signs of wear and ensure sump pumps and other plumbing fixtures are working and free of clogs,” she explains.

“It’s also important to clean out gutters to ensure water flow and prevent backup that can cause problems.”

Fill Your Toolbox

In urgent situations, some homeowners reported resorting to improvised, unreliable solutions like towels (39%), clothing (18%) or even newspapers (15%) to plug leaks. It’s crucial to keep essential emergency repair

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Simple Summer SNACKS

FAMILY FEATURES

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watermelon is always on your grocery list so you can enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, snacks, desserts, drinks and beyond. It easily fits your existing routines for morning smoothies and snacking on the go, or in make-ahead dishes you can serve when hunger strikes.

It’s easy to cool off quickly on hot summer days with Watermelon Ice Pops, a simple, kid-friendly favorite made with watermelon and chunks of fresh fruit. Bursting with flavor, these frozen treats make snack time a cinch while tackling cravings, boosting hydration and supporting wellness in place of added-sugar treats.

For a light afternoon bite before the dinner bell rings, try this Watermelon Salad with Feta and Mint that offers sweet summer flavor without the hassle. Pairing long-time favorites in feta cheese and mint, it’s a classic for a reason with delicious watermelon adding nutritional content.

Of course, as a kitchen staple to keep on hand throughout the year, watermelon is also perfect for

enjoying all on its own at home or on the go. Whether it’s diced, sliced, balled or blended, you can toss it in a jar for a healthy, hydrating snack. Cutting watermelon into convenient chunks is fast and easy so you can eat at home or toss in a to-go container to take to the office, beach or soccer practice. Just cut a grid pattern on the fruit and cubes will tumble out, ready to eat. Don’t forget to wash and dry the rind on the watermelon before cutting.

1. Cut the whole watermelon lengthwise into quarters. Lay each quarter on its rind with the interior facing up.

2. Place the knife about 3/4 inch down from the peak of the wedge. Holding the knife parallel to the far side of the fruit and starting at the edge