“As someone who’s had a considerable amount of privilege, I choose to extend my privilege to others, however I can. My audacity is for the community—and that means sometimes I might make people uncomfortable.”
Now, as a higher education practitioner and doctoral candidate, Brockington treats every student as if they have a destiny— because that’s how she was treated. She recalls one of Nataki’s assembly songs, “Everybody is a Star,” a calland-response with lyrics like, “You shine bright from where you are… like a diamond in the sky.” It was catchy, but it was also a mantra, a declaration that every student was valuable and expected to rise.
That expectation is rare in a city where the majority of Black students attend schools still working under Eurocentric curriculum models. In the first two parts of this series, data from the Michigan Department of Education showed that fewer than 20% of public schools statewide offer any structured African American history courses before high school. In DPSCD, curriculum reviews found that while Black history is present, it is often confined to slavery, the Civil Rights Movement, and a handful of notable figures—rarely integrated into math, science, literature, or everyday classroom examples.
Brockington sees that gap as both harmful and avoidable. “Black children need to be centered,” she said. “Black children are centered in African-centered educational experiences. It’s equal parts cultural and curriculum. Without
the cultural element, there is no anchor for instruction or community building. Denying Black children of that experience is dehumanizing.”
She points out that other communities in Metro Detroit have created and sustained their own culturally specific educational spaces—Dearborn’s Muslim American schools, Oak Park’s Hasidic Jewish schools—and that no one questions their legitimacy. For Black Detroiters, she argues, the same opportunity should be protected and expanded.
The long-term impact of her Nataki education is written into her life’s work. She is balancing grassroots organizing, academic research, and direct student engagement as a scholar-practitioner. Her doctoral research focuses on the lived experiences of alumni from African-centered schools, with the goal of developing community-based programs and adaptable curriculum models.
“Mrs. N’Namdi is 100% the reason why I am an educator today,” she said. “She created a space for critical engagement in thought and action. We were free to ask
questions and to challenge ourselves—and she was secure enough to be challenged by the children she was teaching.”
Nataki’s story also holds a mirror to the broader curriculum battles Michigan has faced for decades. Since the 1990s, attempts to introduce African American history standards statewide have faced political resistance, often under the banner of “curriculum neutrality” or, more recently, opposition to so-called “critical race theory.” In Detroit, where over 80% of public school students are Black, these fights are not abstract—they determine whether students see themselves reflected in their education or erased from it.
As Detroit continues to wrestle with curriculum reforms, Brockington’s story is a reminder that these debates are not theoretical. They are about whether children will see themselves as whole, capable, and worthy—or whether they will be asked to shrink themselves to fit into a worldview that excludes them.
It’s also a reminder that culturally grounded education doesn’t just benefit the student—it benefits the city. Alumni like Brockington return to Detroit’s communities equipped with the confidence, cultural literacy, and sense of purpose to lead, teach, and build. They become the kind of people who not only succeed for themselves but also clear the path for those who follow. It’s the circle of life for our communities.
Her path—from Greenlawn Street to Nataki Talibah, from Howard University to doctoral research—proves that when Black children are centered early, they carry that af-
firmation into every room they enter, and that kind of preparation is not a luxury. It’s a necessity.
Ebony JJ Curry can be reached at ecurry@michronicle.com.
DPSCD Foundation
From page A-1
will oversee the distribution of resources, said the additional funding will ensure more families are “day one ready” for the first day of school. “By fulfilling the critical gaps of families and students who are most in need, we help to ensure they start the year equipped and ready, thanks to our Foundation and Amazon,” she said.
Mitchell described the donation as another example of how the foundation turns partnerships into measurable progress. “When companies like Amazon invest in our mission, they empower us to execute on the District’s top priorities — ensuring students are equipped, engaged, and ready to learn. This kind of strategic support not only meets an immediate need, it helps build a stronger future for Detroit’s children,” she said.
Conyers said Amazon’s ongoing support reflects a belief that corporate partnerships should have staying power. “Over the past five years, Amazon has been deeply committed to the next generation of Detroit students. This additional $25,000 builds on our broader financial, STEM, and family engagement support with DPSCD. We’re proud to be part of a solution that helps families prepare for the school year,” he said.
Thursday’s event closed out the Summer on the Block series, a district-led effort to bring resources directly into neighborhoods rather than requiring families to come to central locations. The activations are part block party, part information fair, and part supply drive — offering families a chance to meet school staff, get questions answered, and leave with concrete tools for the year ahead. For many, it’s also a reminder that the district and its partners are paying attention to the realities families face outside the classroom.
Research supports the district’s focus on attendance and preparedness. Students who show up every day, on time, with the tools they need, are three to five times more likely to perform at or above grade level in reading and math. Leaders say that’s why direct support — from uniforms to hygiene
kits — is essential, not optional.
The $25,000 will be used strategically. FACE staff know which schools and neighborhoods have the greatest needs and will work to ensure resources are distributed equitably. That targeted approach is meant to both relieve immediate financial stress for families and remove practical barriers that can keep children out of school.
Since its inception, the DPSCD Foundation has raised more than $30 million to enhance educational opportunities for Detroit students. Its partnership with the district ensures that funding aligns with what educators and families say will have the most impact. That often includes academic enrichment, technology access, wellness initiatives, and — as this latest gift demonstrates — the basic supplies that lay the groundwork for learning.
The importance of giving back to Detroit students and families has taken on added urgency as federal funding cuts loom. Leaders say that without community investment, many children will start the year already behind. For them, the question isn’t whether these supports matter — it’s who will step up if local partners do not.
The message from district leadership was consistent: when partners invest in families, they are investing in academic outcomes. With the school year about to begin, the hope is that momentum from last year’s gains will carry forward, supported by resources that make it possible for more students to be in their seats, ready to learn, from day one.
This gift, while specific in its purpose, is emblematic of the kind of multi-year, multi-pronged partnerships that district leaders say are essential to sustaining progress. As the last Summer on the Block event wrapped up at Davison Elementary, with families leaving carrying bags of supplies and information about the coming year, the connection between community support and classroom success was clear. The work of closing gaps in attendance and achievement is far from over, but for hundreds of Detroit students, the path to a strong start just got a little smoother.
Ebony JJ Curry can be reached at ecurry@ michronicle.com.
Dr. Tiffany Brockington and Nataki Talibah Schoolhouse of Detroit founding principal Carmen N’Namdi.
A3 | August 20-26, 2025
Roots.
Black Business Month Spotlight:
ZaLonya Allen in the Business of Cultivating Businesses
External
For her commitment and success in educating entrepreneurs through her career, Dr. Allen has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award for volunteerism from President Joseph Biden.
As the Founder, President and CEO of the National Entrepreneurs Association, Dr. ZaLonya Allen has been an entrepreneur for over 20 years. As a professional speaker and corporate trainer specializing in leadership and entrepreneurship, she has delivered hundreds of talks for organizations throughout the country and coaches professionals in a variety of industries.
Dr. Allen has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award for volunteerism from President Joseph Biden.
With Bachelor’s and Doctorate degrees in Psychology, Dr. Allen teaches that there is a distinctive mindset that differentiates the successful entrepreneur.
The National Entrepreneurs Association focuses on creating quality networking experiences both virtually and in-person, so that entrepreneurs can connect with peers and professionals, locally and nationally, who can help them achieve their goals.
NEA events are well attended by serious entrepreneurs and resource providers who have a genuine interest in collaborating.
With the support of Comerica Bank, the organization has been able to offer a nine-week Entrepreneur Bootcamp and Certification Program that has graduated more than 300 entrepreneurs nationwide.
To spotlight her impact on entrepreneurial business growth, Dr. Allen discusses her passion, the value of entrepreneurship training, and why Black Business Month is so important.
One of the things that stood out, and is encountered in some other areas, is the psychology of entrepreneurship and business. Can you speak to how you use that in your work?
Dr. Allen: I teach that our school system is set up to train people to go and work for someone else, so they don’t train you in the skills to work for yourself. And once you’ve developed a subconscious program to work for someone else through our school system, and then you decide I want to start my own business, it’s hard to break out of those old patterns and that all mindset. I believe that is the reason so many entrepreneurs fail is because they’re trying to run a business using an employee mindset. So, I just train in the characteristics and traits of an entrepreneur.
As it relates to the NEA, what inspired you to this work?
Dr. Allen: It came from my struggles. I’ve been an entrepreneur for over 20 years, and I started in professional speaking and training. Building a website and saying you’re a speaker and a trainer was not that difficult, and people book you. But then I started a brick-and-mortar, which involved more in terms of understanding the legal aspects of hiring an employee. I realized there was a lot that I didn’t know, and the resources that were available in the community at the time were not fulfilling my needs.
So, I put together an event called the Entrepreneurs Forum, where I could bring experts together to talk about how to start and grow a business the right way. From that came the Entrepreneurs Association. Because there was so much information, we realized we needed to meet regularly. We started having monthly meetings, and then we do two conferences, two training conferences every year, one in the spring and one in addition to a nine-week boot
camp, which we offer three times a year. That’s the training program that we partner with Comerica on. When one thinks of entrepreneurship, one thinks of somebody who’s on day one, just starting. But you have offered training to businesses, including small ones that have been in existence for a while, who may need additional support, new technologies, or access to capital. Sometimes we forget about them. Thoughts?
Dr. Allen: Business is constantly evolving, and especially technology. Some entrepreneurs come to us like a refresher or to make sure they’re staying current with what’s going on in business because the rules of the game are constantly changing in funding. Changes like when the pandemic happened, all of these companies and the government started offering funding to for profit businesses, which was unheard of at one time. There was a time when you had to be a nonprofit to get financing, but because so many companies were failing—because of the shutdown—the corporations and the federal government realized that we needed a boost. They started creating all these programs to help businesses get funding, but they can’t take advantage of that if they don’t know about it.
Can you talk about the importance of Black Business Month and what Blackowned businesses contribute to American society?
Dr. Allen: It’s important because more African Americans need to know that they can start their businesses and control their financial future, rather than working for someone else, which is at-will employment. And also, I’ve been hearing so much about the elimination of the middle class and that eventually there will be two classes, the rich and the poor. It’s important for Black-owned businesses to gain financial independence from that old system and then be able to reach back and help each other by hiring people that look like us from our community.
Dr. ZaLonya Allen with Comerica Bank Vice President and
Affairs Market Manager Kevin Watkins. Allen founded the National Entrepreneurs Association, which provides year-round forums, bootcamps, pitch competitions and certification programs to assist entrepreneurs.
On May 16, NEA, led by Dr. Allen, held its Entrepreneurs Forum at Lawrence Technical University which focused on innovations and entrepreneurs, business owners and influ-
part of the bank’s ongoing partnership with the
Pictured: Mike Cheatham, Comerica Bank Vice President and External Affairs Market Manager, speaks
Jackets for Jobs and Comerica Bank to Host Second
Comerica Bank has been named one of America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions 2025 by Newsweek and Plant-A Insights Group. The national recognition honors the banks and credit unions positively impacting their communities.
The annual rankings compiled by Newsweek and global market data research firm Plant-A Insights Group evaluated banks and credit unions across the country through analysis of over 9,000 institutions, more than 70,000 customer surveys and millions of social media reviews.
For more than 175 years Comerica has focused on relationship banking, establishing itself as an institution that goes beyond transactions. Offering personalized financial guidance, innovative resources and a personalized touch has allowed Comerica to set itself apart.
It continues to shape its vision for the future as it introduces new payments solutions, resources for small businesses, enhanced digital offerings and an unwavering commitment to investments in community development initiatives.
Financial Literacy Camp
From page A-3
“We believe if we start with our children, we can equip them with tools to be successful later in life,” said Theresa Mitchell, Director of Community Life in Detroit, explains. “We also teach them how to be good stewards of the things that they currently have.”
The relationship between TCB and Comerica and the evolution of the “Make Cents” camp was purely organic. Ms. Cooley notes that as a long-time customer of the bank, she approached Monica Greer, the Banking Center Manager at her home locations who connected her with Kevin Watkins. From there, the partnership bloomed.
For Watkins, his fascination with the banking industry and financial literacy began early in his life. “My parents opened a bank account for me early on. The experience of going into the bank, making deposits, and regularly talking about finances influenced me. In high school, i had a co-op job and worked at a credit union before joining Comerica after college as a management trainee.”
He adds, “Even then, I saw my role as more than selling products but sharing knowledge with individuals so they can buy homes and cars. That’s where my motivation comes from.”
TCB’s mission, led by its CEO Bart Mitchell, is “to build and sustain strong communities where all people can thrive.”
For Cooley, the “Make Cents” camp is a manifestation of that mission.
“When it came to the Buy Bucks store, it was challenging because you may have to explain to a six-year-old that they don’t have enough money for the toy that they really want--and you don’t want to say no to them but it is part of the learning process,” said Cooley.
She adds, “I also found that the kids would make unexpected choices. For example, one of them bought something for his sister instead of himself. So, there were a lot of enlightening moments.”
Cooley notes that the youth were not the only ones who learned while at the camps. She learned how the children view “wants vs needs.”
Cooley explains, “I learned that for little kids, snacks are a need--while I would have called them a want. It helped me understand their point of view.”
She notes that understanding the motivations of their children can help parents improve communication around money.
“We don’t just stop with the children, we do programming for adults as well helping them improve their incomes, credit scores, and even take steps toward homeownership,” Mitchell said. “Because it’s never too late to get on the right track.”
application fee. We get people who would otherwise not have access to the
“Newsweek and market-data research firm Plant-A Insights are proud to introduce ‘America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions 2025,’ highlighting companies utilizing a community- and customer-centric approach to make a big financial impact in their neighborhoods.”
Comerica Bank has served Michigan longer than any other bank with a continuous presence dating back over 175 years to its Detroit founding in 1849. It is the largest bank employer in metro Detroit and has more than 4,300 employees statewide.
With one of the largest banking center networks in Michigan, Comerica nurtures lifelong relationships with unwavering integrity and financial prudence. Comerica positively impacts the lives of Michigan residents by helping customers be successful, providing financial support that assists hundreds of charitable organizations, and actively participating in Detroit’s downtown revitalization.
“Regional banks and credit unions are the financial backbone of communities nationwide as they support small businesses, fund local projects and ensure easy access to essential banking services,” said Nancy Cooper, Newsweek Global Editor in Chief.
From page A-3
Comerica Bank Banking Center Manager Monica Greer reads to youth during the Community Builders “Make Cents” financial education series.
Community Builders offered youth the Buy Bucks store during the summer “Make Cents” summer camp.
Watkins fields questions on money matters from youth at the Left Field Apartments.
Dr. ZaLonya Allen
Comerica Bank Small Business Banker Brittany Price (second from right) speaks to entrepreneurs in 2024 at one of NEA’s Entrepreneurs Forum panel sessions.
A5 | August 20-26, 2025
Money.
Property is Power!
How VantageScore 4.0 and Today’s Refinancing Boom Can Help Close the Black Homeownership Gap
By Dr. Anthony Kellum
The power of property ownership in the African American community has always been about more than bricks and mortar it’s about access, equity, and the ability to create generational wealth. Today, the mortgage market is presenting a rare combination of changes that, if understood and acted upon, can help narrow the long-standing homeownership gap between Black and White households.
As of 2023, the Black homeownership rate hovers around 44.7%, far behind White households at over 72%. Even with the largest annual increase among racial groups in recent years, the gap remains a glaring reminder of systemic barriers rooted in decades of housing discrimination, redlining, and inequitable lending practices. Black households are also disproportionately “cost-burdened,” meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on housing in most states. This creates a cycle where saving for a down payment or investing in additional property becomes far more challenging.
Two recent developments in the mortgage market may help turn the tide if we take advantage of them. First, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) has approved the use of VantageScore 4.0 for mortgages guaranteed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. This credit scoring model is a game changer. Unlike traditional credit scores, VantageScore 4.0 factors in alternative data such as rental payments, utility bills, and other recurring expenses. For many Black households particularly those who have historically been “credit invisible” or underbanked this opens the door to mortgage eligibility without the need for years of credit history built solely on credit cards and loans. Analysts estimate that up to five million Americans could benefit from this scoring change, a significant portion of whom are Black borrowers.
Second, mortgage interest rates have taken a welcome dip. In August 2025, the average 30-year fixed rate dropped to around 6.6%, the lowest since April. This has triggered a surge in refinancing applications, with refinances now making up nearly half of all mortgage activity. For Black homeowners, this moment presents a unique opportunity. Refinancing at a lower rate can reduce monthly payments, free up cash for home improvements, or even create capital for purchasing additional property. For those with high-interest loans from just a year ago, the savings could be substantial.
The combination of improved credit access and favorable refinancing conditions is more than a financial opportunity it’s a strategic pathway to closing the wealth gap. Imagine a scenario where a family uses VantageScore 4.0 to qualify for their first mortgage, or a homeowner refinances to lower their payments and then uses the freed-up funds to invest in another property or a small business. These are not just transactions; they are building blocks for generational wealth.
See VANTAGESCORE 4.0 Page A-6
By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
Focus:HOPE is facing one of the most significant setbacks in its 56-year history after learning it will lose $6 million in federal Head Start funding, with no explanation from Washington and no other provider stepping up to serve the affected neighborhoods. The loss will end a program that has been a lifeline for hundreds of Detroit children and families, strip at least 90 workers of their jobs, and undermine the stability that allows parents to work, study, and pursue better opportunities.
Founded in 1968 in the shadow of the 1967 rebellion, Focus:HOPE was created to address the economic and racial inequities that had fueled unrest. Its model has always linked education, job training, and food access to a broader vision of rebuilding Detroit from within. The nonprofit’s Head Start and Early Head Start classrooms have been a cornerstone of that vision, giving infants, toddlers, and preschoolers in some of the city’s hardest-hit ZIP codes a safe, nurturing place to grow.
Michigan Pauses $500M I-375 Project Amid Rising Costs and Community Pushback
By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
On August 11, Michigan transportation officials pressed pause on a plan once billed as a historic opportunity to reconnect Detroit neighborhoods and address one of the city’s deepest wounds. The I-375 Reconnecting Communities Project, a half-billion-dollar effort to replace the sunken freeway with a surface boulevard, will not break ground this year as planned.
The Michigan Department of Transportation cited surging costs, concerns about long-term durability, and sustained public opposition as reasons for the delay.
The decision halts a project that has been years in the making. Originally estimated at $300 million, the cost rose to $425 million last year with the inclusion of related I-75 interchange work. MDOT now says inflation in labor and materials has pushed the total above $500 million. Spokesperson Jocelyn Garza said that with the current freeway lasting more than 60 years, and new materials expected to last even longer, “it’s critical to ensure the design is right for Detroit’s future.”
MDOT Director Bradley C. Wieferich emphasized that point in the announcement. “We have one opportunity to get this project right. I-375 has been open for more than 60 years, and we expect the new I-375, whatever design it may be, to be in place much longer. Getting this right for the community and our stakeholders, while remaining good stewards of tax dollars, will remain our priority.”
Construction had been scheduled to begin before the end of the year, impacting neighborhoods from Eastern Market to Lafayette Park, Elmwood Park, and downtown. In 2022, then–U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg stood alongside Governor Gretchen Whitmer to announce
more than $100 million in federal funding for the project, calling it part of a national effort to confront the consequences of highway construction that destroyed communities of color. “Sometimes, fixing the damn roads means facing the repercussions of how the roads were originally built, who was included in that process and who was not, who was empowered and who was displaced,” Buttigieg said at the time.
Those repercussions are not just a chapter in a history book—they remain a lived reality for Detroiters. When I-375 opened in 1964, it ripped through Black Bottom and Paradise Valley, erasing hundreds of Black-owned businesses, homes, churches, and cultural landmarks. More than 100,000 residents were displaced. These neighborhoods were once the epicenter of Black life in Detroit, home to a thriving music scene, bustling markets, and a strong network of community institutions. The freeway’s arrival dismantled the economic base and cultural heartbeat of a community that had taken decades to build.
The boulevard plan was pitched as a chance to undo some of that harm. Designs called for bike lanes, wider sidewalks, green space, and nearly 30 acres of land for redevelopment. Advocates envisioned reconnection between areas long divided by the trench-like freeway. But the vision has been met with skepticism over whether the benefits will truly reach those most harmed by the original construction.
Wayne County Executive Warren Evans has been one of the most forceful critics. Speaking to the Michigan Chronicle earlier this year, he made clear that the current plan falls short of its promises.
“I think they need to reimagine it two or three more times. I’m not convinced that it makes a whole lot of sense. They marketed
it as somehow ‘reparative’ – to do something for getting rid of Paradise Valley and Black Bottom. I haven’t seen that anywhere. It’s the biggest scam I’ve heard in a long time. Don’t tell me you’re doing something to benefit people who look like me, and then have no plan to do anything for people who look like me.”
His words reflect a broader sentiment among residents and advocacy groups who have been calling for more than surface-level change. Many have demanded that the project include enforceable commitments to affordable housing, priority for descendants of displaced families to return, and opportunities for Black-owned businesses in any new development. Without such safeguards, they argue, the boulevard could trigger a new wave of displacement in the name of progress.
Small business owners in Eastern Market and Greektown have raised separate but related concerns, warning that changes to traffic flow and access could harm commerce. Nearly 500 residents and business owners have signed letters urging a pause until the project can be redesigned to protect local economic interests and center equity in every decision.
The state’s decision to delay appears to be an acknowledgment that those concerns cannot be ignored. MDOT has pledged to reevaluate design alternatives and conduct additional public engagement before moving forward. Officials say they remain committed to safety improvements, pointing out that many of the corridor’s bridges have exceeded their service lives and need replacement, but acknowledge that the final design will shape Detroit for decades and must reflect the city’s priorities.
The I-375 debate is part of a national reckoning over mid-20th-century high-
had been operating as a subgrantee of Starfish Family Services, which applied separately for funding this year. No other agency applied to serve the four ZIP codes, leaving a complete service void. CEO Portia Roberson said the organization carefully reviewed its application, even removing certain politically charged words like “diversity, equity, and inclusion,” but refused to erase them from its website or history.
“I don’t think you can really scrub a website of the history of this organization, and I wouldn’t want to. I don’t think I’d be honoring the founders … by doing that,” Roberson said, and very well could alienate donors who give because Focus:HOPE serves a wide range of communities.
That instability has flared repeatedly.
In the early 1980s, cuts under President Ronald Reagan forced Detroit Head Start providers to scale back or close locations. In the 1990s, disputes over whether state
The neighborhoods now losing these services—48202, 48206, 48211, and 48238— are the same areas that have long relied on early childhood programs as a bulwark against the effects of poverty. Head Start’s arrival in Detroit in the late 1960s, part of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty, brought optimism but also political tension. Early on, local and federal leaders clashed over control and funding, and budget shifts sometimes left certain neighborhoods without a center for years.
pre-K programs should absorb federal early childhood dollars created new competition for teachers and classrooms. More recently, Detroit faced a sharp challenge in 2016 when Michigan’s expansion of state-funded pre-K created competition with federal Head Start programs. Providers raced to hire qualified teachers, and the turnover disrupted classroom consistency in Detroit, raising fears from educators that child development would suffer.
Today’s crisis follows a similar pattern— though the stakes are higher. Focus:HOPE
“I don’t think it was about using language maybe the administration didn’t like. We do serve an underserved population,” but anyone who applies to the Head Start programs and is income-eligible is welcome, she said. “I hope that is not it, but until I see what we’ve done wrong that would cause them to say this is why we’re not funding your program anymore, we don’t know for sure.”
The denial came after months of uncertainty. In June, Focus:HOPE furloughed 45
Anthony O. Kellum
Marshalls Good Stuff Social Club: A
Day of Power, Purpose, and Personal Glow-Up in Detroit
By Miss AJ Williams
There was a radiant energy in the air on August 9th as Detroit showed up and showed out for Marshalls Good Stuff Social Club, a full-day experience curated with purpose, passion, and Black women at the center. Hosted at BasBlue and led by Amber Lewis, founder of Social N The City, the event moved with intention from the very start, offering sessions that spoke to the mind, body, bank account, and creative spirit.
The day opened with a powerful session from Vivian Tu, the financial educator and content creator behind Your Rich BFF. Vivian broke down the path to financial recovery in a way that felt deeply compassionate and easy to digest. She spent time explaining two key strategies for tackling debt: the snowball method and the avalanche method, both of which sparked lightbulb moments for attendees. With the snowball method, she explained, you focus on paying off your smallest debts first, regardless of interest rate. This creates momentum and builds confidence, making it easier to stay motivated. The avalanche method, on the other hand, tackles debt with the highest interest rate first, helping to save money in the long run. Vivian emphasized that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach—what matters is choosing the method that aligns with your personality and staying consistent. She offered practical examples, budget hacks, and even talked about how to navigate financial conversations with loved ones. It wasn’t just about dollars; it was about dignity, discipline, and doing what works for you.
While I wasn’t able to catch the full “Building a Business from Your Art”
panel firsthand, the buzz in the hallway afterward said it all. Attendees were visibly inspired by the stories shared, particularly from artist and entrepreneur Destinee Rose. From what was overheard, Destinee’s authenticity and clarity resonated deeply. She reportedly spoke about her path to creative entrepreneurship as one of honoring her own identity first, and how doing so helped her connect with the right audiences and collaborators. Several folks mentioned that her reflections on navigating selfdoubt and creating boundaries in business were especially impactful. Bo Shepherd and Rachelle Baker also brought the heat, sharing insights on scaling your passion sustainably and the power of leaning into your community as a resource, not just for sales but for support and alignment.
The Speed Networking session took a lively turn with BasBlue’s Liza Gordon guiding us through dynamic prompts while DJ Rimarkable kept the energy high with a perfectly curated set. It was networking without the stiffness. People danced, laughed, swapped stories, and exchanged info like it was second nature. The vibe was pure Detroit: warm, vibrant, and full of promise.
Later in the afternoon, “A Portrait of Confidence” offered space to slow down and turn inward. With paper, scissors, and soul-baring prompts, creative coaches Lauren Hom and Rachael Renae helped attendees build self-portraits that reflected not only how we see ourselves but how we feel ourselves. The joy, the softness, the boldness—it was all there in color and shape.
Between personalized color analysis sessions, fresh and seasonal bites from a women-led culinary team, and gift bags complete with Marshalls treats, the entire day felt like a love letter to self-worth. And Detroit received it, sealed with care.
Funding Loss
From page A-5
early childhood staff members for the summer as part of its usual seasonal pause, expecting to reopen in the fall. On August 1, with still no word from the federal Administration for Children and Families, the nonprofit laid off an additional 50 employees and appealed to U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Elissa Slotkin for help. The official response finally arrived—without a funding increase, without a renewal, and without a reason. The letter promised a forthcoming explanation and a copy of the review team’s assessment, but Roberson said the organization has received no complaints or reports of deficiencies in its program operations.
“It’s a federally funded program. Without federal dollars, it’s virtually impossible to do Head Start programming for the amount of students we serve,” Roberson said.
For the children served, the closure means more than the loss of a classroom. Head Start offers daily meals, developmental screenings, language and literacy support, and social skills that prepare young learners for kindergarten. Without it, families must turn to private care they may not be able to afford, or patch together inconsistent arrangements that disrupt both work and learning. Roberson warned that the loss will also erode Focus:HOPE’s workforce training pipeline. Without reliable child care, parents in manufacturing, IT, and skilled trades programs may be forced to drop out before securing stable jobs.
Detroit’s early education advocates have seen this threat before. In early 2025, a proposal from President Donald Trump’s administration threatened to zero out Head Start funding nationwide. While the final budget did not explicitly cut the program, a temporary funding freeze, delayed grant disbursements, and staffing upheaval disrupted services across Michigan. In Detroit, some classrooms faced uncertainty deep into the school year, further eroding the sense of stability parents need when placing their children in care. That history casts this moment not as an isolated crisis, but as part of a long continuum of political resistance to programs serving underserved communities.
Now, President Trump is accelerating those efforts. Since his 2025 inauguration, he has issued sweeping executive orders dismantling diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility initiatives across the federal government. Executive Orders 14151 and 14173 have eliminated DEIA mandates, purged related staff, and rescinded affirmative action obligations in federal contracting. On January 27, the Office of Management and Budget issued a memo pausing disbursements for programs, including Head Start. Although courts later temporarily blocked the freeze, the disruption contributed to financial uncertainty, bureaucratic delays, and narrowed access for marginalized communities.
Trump’s administration is also waging broader attacks on equity. Civil rights groups—including the National Urban League and the National Fair Housing Alliance—have filed lawsuits, arguing that
his executive actions violate free speech and due process by specifically targeting DEIA programs. The result is a chilling climate for nonprofits like Focus:HOPE, which rely on steady federal support to operate essential services.
The policy shifts are not confined to education. Trump’s recently enacted tax bill is projected to cut $186 billion from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program over the next decade, jeopardizing access to free school meals for millions of students and undermining the nutritional safety net that Head Start often supplements. While unrelated to early childhood programming, his administration has also drawn criticism for deploying federal troops in cities like Washington, D.C., under questionable authority—moves that Black leaders have warned appear to target minority-led cities.
For Focus:HOPE, these broader political moves add to the urgency. The nonprofit will continue to operate its smaller Great Start Readiness Program, funded through a $550,000 state grant, and hopes to expand it. But even with growth, it will not replace the scope or reach of Head Start. The organization will also maintain its senior food program, which delivers monthly boxes to 42,000 older adults in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, and five Thumb counties, and its workforce training programs for young adults. Still, Roberson acknowledges that losing Head Start unravels part of the fabric that has held the community together for decades.
“That’s what makes this so disheartening … the lack of options for these parents and kids now,” Roberson said.
At a recent town hall on the Focus:HOPE campus, Roberson urged parents and staff to press lawmakers directly. The gathering recalled moments from the late 1960s and early 1970s, when Detroit parents organized letter-writing campaigns and sit-ins to protect their neighborhood Head Start centers. Back then, collective pressure sometimes succeeded in forcing budget reversals.
Whether the same strategy can work now remains uncertain. In the 1960s, Head Start was born from the momentum of the civil rights movement and the War on Poverty; in 2025, it operates in a climate where federal support for equity programs is being actively dismantled. Yet for the neighborhoods affected, the stakes are the same: without accessible, high-quality early childhood education, generations of Detroit children will start school already behind, and the city’s long-term economic health will suffer.
Against that backdrop, Focus:HOPE’s shutdown of its Head Start program is not just a tragic local outcome—it’s a flashpoint at the meeting place of historical struggle, policy rollback, and democratic erosion. This moment exposes the fragility of early learning supports in communities borne on the frontlines of racial and economic inequity.
If the funding is not restored, these classrooms— anchors in their communities—will close, staff will be dispersed, and rebuilding the program could take years, if it happens at all.
Ebony JJ Curry can be reached at ecurry@ michronicle.com.
From page A-5
way construction, which disproportionately targeted Black and low-income neighborhoods. Cities from Syracuse to New Orleans are reconsidering or dismantling urban freeways, with promises to restore walkability, reduce pollution, and reclaim land for public and private use. Detroit’s case stands out not only for the magnitude of displacement but also for the cultural weight of what was lost.
Public engagement sessions in recent years have shown both a strong desire for change and deep distrust in the process. Many residents who lived through the loss of Black Bottom and Paradise Valley, or whose families did, say the only way forward is through genuine restorative development—policies and investments that return wealth, ownership, and opportunity to those most harmed.
The concept of a surface boulevard is not itself in dispute for most. Supporters believe it could improve connectivity, make streets safer for pedestrians and cyclists, and open valuable land for development. The fault line is over whether those benefits will be equitably shared, or whether they will flow to outside developers and newcomers at the expense
From page A-5
It’s important to remember, however, that access alone will not erase the impact of decades of discriminatory housing policy. Black borrowers are still denied conventional mortgages at higher rates than White borrowers with similar credit profiles. Appraisal bias, lending disparities, and income gaps remain persistent challenges. But by arming ourselves with knowledge and acting quickly in moments like this, we can chip away at those barriers.
of legacy residents.
By pressing pause, Michigan officials have created an opening to address that question head-on. For some, the delay offers a rare chance to reset the process and write equity into the project’s foundation. For others, it’s a frustrating setback to long-needed infrastructure upgrades and a reminder of how easily political and public pressure can stall major investments.
Either way, the road ahead for I-375 will be shaped as much by trust as by engineering. The boulevard’s ultimate design will say whether Detroit is ready to confront its past with more than words—and whether it will seize the opportunity to return some measure of what was taken.
Evans has been blunt about what that measure should be. “If the people who were displaced don’t benefit, we’ve failed,” he said earlier this year. “It’s that plain. We can’t keep talking about equity without putting it in writing and making it real.”
With construction tabled, the city and state now face a singular test. In the coming months, Detroit will decide whether this project becomes a national model for how to repair historical wrongs— or another smooth stretch of concrete laid over an old wound.
Ebony JJ Curry can be reached at ecurry@michronicle.com.
Every mortgage approval, every lowered monthly payment, every additional property owned is a step toward economic self-determination. The gap may be wide, but with strategic action and a willingness to seize moments like this, we can close it one property, one family, one generation at a time.
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.
For the African American community, “Property is Power” is not a slogan it’s a call to action. Today’s market offers tools that can help level the playing field, but those tools only matter if we use them. If you’ve been shut out of homeownership because of a lack of traditional credit history, explore how VantageScore 4.0 might change your eligibility. If you already own, check your current interest rate and run the numbers on refinancing.
Public Notice of Upcoming Accreditation Review Visit by the ACEN
Detroit Michigan: Wayne County Community College District will host a site visit for continuing accreditation of its Associate of Applied Science Nursing Program by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
You are invited to meet with the site visit team and share comments about the program in person at a meeting scheduled at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the 8200 West Outer Drive, Detroit, Michigan 48219. Written comments are also welcome and should be submitted to the ACEN via email at public-comments@acenursing.org or to the ACEN office:
Attn: Accreditation Services
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
3390 Peachtree Rd NE, Suite 1400
Atlanta, GA 30326
The ACEN should receive all written comments by August 26, 2025
For information, contact Unbreen Amir at uamir1@wcccd.edu
Representatives of
Comerica Bank and Kalamazoo Growlers Summer Food Drive Generates 57,000 Meals for South Michigan Food Bank
First started in 2022, the Comerica Bank partnership with the Kalamazoo Growlers baseball organization continues to grow each year, with this year’s summer food drive benefitting the South Michigan Food Bank by scoring approximately 57,000 meals that will help reduce hunger in the community.
“The collaborative relationship between Comerica Bank, the Kalamazoo Growler’s and South Michigan Food Bank showcases how organizations can work together to improve the lives of our neighbors,” said Peter Vogel, South Michigan Food Bank Chief Executive Officer.
“Through their generosity and fun spirited events, vital resources are given to support our communities. We extend our gratitude to the caring customers and fans as they too are showing when our community comes together to support one another, we can, and will, end hunger and food insecurity in South Michigan.”
The food drive is an annual effort to combat rising hunger levels in the greater-Kalamazoo region. All donated non-perishable food items were given to South Michigan Food Bank.
Feeding America reports that, since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, 4 in 10 people turning to food banks are first-time visitors. The Growlers and Comerica Bank remain committed to easing this growing need in the Greater Kalamazoo community.
“The Kalamazoo Growlers and South Michigan Food Bank consistently demonstrate how an unwavering commitment to serve can have an immeasurable impact on the community,” said Debra Hanes, Comerica Bank Senior Vice President and Retail Regional Director.
“Just like a strong lineup on the ballfield leads to wins, collaboration off the field translates to transformative results that bring joy, hope and support to the Kalamazoo community. Comerica is proud to partner on our annual summer food drive, and we appreciate the community stepping up to the plate to help our neighbors in need.”
The summer food drive started in June and ended with the public making their final pitch in supporting the drive at the Kalamazoo Growlers home game on Friday, July 25 that
turned into a double-header due to inclement weather the day prior. The Growlers swept both games against the Rockford Rivets 10-1 and 12-7.
Donors who dropped off nonperishable food items at participating Comerica banking centers in Kalamazoo, Portage and Battle Creek received one Growlers ticket voucher for every five items donated. Additionally, those who donated 20 items or more received a Growlers-themed prize.
New this year, the food drive expanded the public’s opportunity to participate in contributing to South Michigan Food Bank. The community-wide initiative led off the day of giving 9 a.m. on Friday, July 25, at Homer Stryker Field in Kalamazoo.
As a thank-you for supporting local families in need, fans who brought at least six non-perishable food items received a stylish Growlers bucket hat, courtesy of Comerica Bank
“We’re thrilled to partner with Comerica Bank on this important community event,” Kalamazoo Growlers General Manager, Tom Old said. “It’s more than just hats and donations, it’s about rallying our fans and neighbors to support those who need a helping hand right here in our backyard.”
Fans who attended the July 25 game to see the defending Northwoods League Champions host the Rockford Rivets also donated at the gate.
Since 2022, Comerica and the Growlers have teamed up on the summer food drive that has generated approximately 250,000 meals to provide to members of the community in need. During this partnership, Comerica Bank and the Comerica Charitable Foundation has donated $42,000 to the South Michigan Food Bank.
Comerica’s partnership with the Growlers extends beyond the food drive and includes participation in the annual Kalamazoo Growlers Education Day featuring the Kids STEM Fair. On June 2, students from the Kalamazoo Public Schools converged onto Homer Stryker Field for a day of engagement and fun. Members of Comerica’s Financial Education Brigade delivered lessons on financial education, including budgeting, saving and investing.
ALPFA Empowers and Inspires at 2025 Women of ALPFA
The Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting (ALPFA) hosted an empowering evening event on Tuesday, August 12 at the Ford Experience Center (FXC) in Dearborn with the Women of ALPFA focused on the power of self-advocacy.
2025 Women of ALPFA: The Art of Promoting Your Value showcased how to recognize, communicate, and champion an individual’s worth. Through conversations, connection and community, ALPFA explored leading with confidence and intention.
Women of ALPFA, supported by Comerica Bank and additional corporate partners, featured a panel of experienced and successful women who offered professional insights and personal perspectives.
DTE Senior Vice President & Chief Legal Officer JoAnn Chávez was honored with the ALPFA Michigan Latina Excellence Award.
Among the panelists included Comerica Bank Vice President Small Business Banking Group Manager Yolanda Serra.
“I’m thrilled to have been part of ALPFA panel, The Art Of Promoting Your Value,” said Yolanda Serra, Comerica Bank vice President and Small Business Banking Group Manager. “It was an incredible opportunity to share my journey, including the career challenges I faced and the strategies I employed to overcome them.
“Engaging with fellow panelists and attendees allowed for meaningful discussions about self-promotion and the importance of recognizing one’s worth in the professional landscape. I hope my insights resonated and inspired others to embrace their unique value.”
Serra was joined by moderator Brenda Rio (Ally; ALPFA Michigan Chapter Director of Corporate Partnership), Carla Hernandez (Ford Motor Company); Holly Sales-Milanese (Ally).
Comerica’s involvement was led by the bank’s Michigan Hispanic Impact team, cochaired by Serra and Assistant Vice President and Corporate Quality Complaints Analyst Anna Guerra. For the Impact team
The 2025 Women of ALPFA panel offered insights and perspectives for professionals on all levels of their career journeys. The panel included (l-r): Ford Motor Company HR Director – Technology & Software Platform Carla Hernandez, Comerica Bank Vice President and Small Business Banking Group Manager Yolanda Serra, Ally Director – Talent & Development Holly Sales-Milanese and Ally Director – Dealer Financial Services Content, Auto Marketing Brenda Rio. Rio, ALPFA Michigan Chapter Director of Corporate Partnership, served as moderator.
Comerica colleagues and members of the Comerica’s Michigan Hispanic Impact team at 2025 Women of ALPFA.
& CEO of the Michigan Hispanic Collaborative (MiHC) and was a 2024 ALPFA Trailblazer recipient. Chávez was recognized in October 2024 as a Hispanic Heritage Month Game Changer by the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Red Wings in partnership with Comerica Bank. Since 1972, ALPFA
Senior Vice President and Director of Technology Transformation Denise Morency and Senior Vice President and Director of Payments Delivered Shared Services Adam Pichler visited The Children’s Center in Detroit to share educational stories and help kick off the organization’s summer camp.
Morency and Pichler volunteered to participate in a financial education program structured around children’s books focused on personal finance.
reach them. The ALPFA Michigan chapter are all volunteers passionately help current professionals and the next generation of Latino students succeed through
and
Comerica Bank, Kalamazoo Growlers and South Michigan Food Bank during the pre-game check presentation. Along with Comerica’s $10,000 donation, the food drive combined with food donations generated 57,000 meals.
The annual Kalamazoo Growlers Summer Food Drive took place at participating Comerica banking centers in Kalamazoo, Portage and Battle Creek.
Comerica Bank Vice President and External Affairs Market Manager Mike Cheatham throws out the first “hot dog.” Cheatham led Comerica’s community engagement and support of the Kalamazoo Growlers Education Day featuring the Kids STEM Fair.
Kalamazoo Growlers team members, comprised of college baseball players, thank the fans on the back of the South Michigan Food Bank food truck prior the second game of the team’s double-header on July 25.
South Michigan Food Bank Chief Executive Officer encourages a local youth from the Kalamazoo Premier Athletics youth cheerleading squad on hand to help celebrate the results of the annual food drive.
C ity . L ife . Style
The NOW Massage: A Neighborhood Oasis for SelfCare
By Miss AJ Williams
The NOW Massage in Birmingham, Michigan, is a welcome breath of fresh air for those looking to prioritize wellness without all the bells and whistles of a tra ditional day spa. Located on Hamilton Row in the heart of downtown Birmingham, this boutique style massage studio is part of a growing national chain, but it carries a distinctly local vibe. From the moment you walk in, the energy is calm and uncluttered. The aesthetic is rooted in nature: think neutral tones, raw wood textures, and soft desert inspired accents. It’s a serene, mini malist space that invites you to slow down and reconnect with your body. And while it’s not a full service spa in the conventional sense, what it offers is no less essential, es pecially for those seeking consistent stress relief and self care maintenance.
One of the standout offerings is The Healer massage, a deeply restorative expe rience designed not just to ease muscle ten sion but to soothe emotional and energetic imbalances. It blends breathwork, energy healing elements, and gentle, rhythmic strokes to create a session that feels almost ceremonial. This is the kind of treatment that lingers long after you leave the table, grounding you in your body and helping to quiet the mind. It’s not just a massage, it’s medicine for the spirit.
The NOW also offers a range of enhance ment options that elevate the basic massage experience. Two favorites are the Gua Sha and the Scalp Renewal. Gua Sha, an ancient technique rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, uses smooth stones to gently scrape the skin. It promotes circulation, re lieves tension, and reduces inflammation. When paired with a deep tissue massage, Gua Sha works wonders for those stub born knots and stress heavy areas like the
Central Kitchen + Bar
By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
Ten years can change the face of a city, but it takes a certain kind of vision for a place to become part of its fabric. In 2015, Central Kitchen + Bar opened inside the historic First National Building, right in the middle of downtown Detroit’s trans formation. The idea came from Detroit native Dennis Archer Jr., who wanted a space that reflected the city’s grit and charm, yet still offered a modern, cosmo politan experience. He wanted a restau rant that was approachable without losing its edge, elevated without feeling out of reach, and unmistakably Detroit.
“Back in 2015, Downtown Detroit was changing—fast,” said Archer. “But there still wasn’t a place that matched what I envisioned: approachable but elevated, casual but curated, grounded in the city’s soul but with a vibe that felt cosmopoli tan. I wanted Central to reflect Detroit’s past, present, and its promise.”
Downtown at the time was in the midst of rapid growth, with new businesses, residents, and visitors changing the city’s rhythm. But for Archer, something was still missing. He pictured a place where a business lunch could roll seamlessly into an after‑work happy hour, where a Sunday brunch could carry the same energy as a Friday night, and where the design would speak to Detroit’s past and future at the same time. When the First National Build ing space became available, it felt like the right move—not just for location, but for history.
The building itself carried layers of De troit’s story. Archer kept the original bank vault doors, tin ceilings, and sturdy col umns, blending them with industrial de tails, warm wood tones, and photography that captured Detroit’s neighborhoods. The name “Central” was chosen as a nod to the city’s former Central Market, which once stood just across the street in Cadillac Square. That grounding in history gave the space an authenticity that felt immediate ly familiar to Detroiters.
From the start, Central’s menu was
keep the
built to be accessible while offering some thing unexpected. Under Executive Chef Christina Stanco today, that balance still holds. The kitchen has a clear sense of what regulars come back for—signature items like the smash burger with its house sauce, Mediterranean wings with marinat ed feta and olives, and a rotation of hand helds and vibrant plates. But it also leaves room for dishes that surprise guests and
Black Girl Magic Meets Michigan Charm at OTIS Harbor Springs
By Miss AJ Williams
You know a place is special when it feels inten tional before you even check in. That’s OTIS Harbor Springs, a boutique hotel in Northern Michigan where the food dazzles, the design speaks, and the service feels like a warm embrace. It’s a place where every detail has been considered, every flavor has a purpose, and the staff makes you feel like you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.
Located just minutes from the shores of Lake Mich igan, OTIS blends rustic charm with elevated comfort. The historic property was completely renovated by Israel Hernandez and Ty Humpert, who turned what was once a modest inn into one of the most thoughtful ly designed destinations in the region.
The aesthetic strikes a beautiful balance between heritage and modern minimalism. From reclaimed wood accents and textured textiles to locally curated artwork, every corner of OTIS invites you to slow down and stay awhile. It doesn’t try to impress—it just is.
And while the rooms are cozy and the atmosphere calm, let’s be real, the food and drinks steal the spot light.
Led by Shannon Kerry Welch, Director of Food and Beverage, and Executive Chef Shane Abe, the dining experience is a master class in what local, seasonal cooking can be. This isn’t just farm to table as a catch phrase. OTIS works closely with nearby farms and pro ducers, and it shows in every dish.
Start with the pickled beet hummus; bright, tangy, and silky smooth. Add a generous swipe of the house made salted honey brown butter on fresh bread, and you’ve got a snack that feels indulgent without trying too hard. Both are made in house and available at the Culinary Market, and yes, I took some home.
The cocktail program is just as intentional. Casey and Becca, the hotel’s mixologists, are serving up some of the best drinks I’ve had this year. Their signature Long Drive Home, made with Black rum and espresso, is rich, balanced, and jus the right amount of bold. It’s the kind of cocktail that makes you want to linger a little longer.
The Culinary Market, run with warmth and ease by Sam, is its own kind of haven. Think morning coffee, snacks, pantry staples, curated wine, all locally sourced and thoughtfully chosen. Whether you’re grabbing a flat white or a bottle of something special, it’s another reminder that nothing here is accidental.
Shoutout to Kamron Bijeh Apple, General Manager, whose leadership is felt in every smooth check in and thoughtful touch. The team is engaged without being overbearing, relaxed but never inattentive. Every inter action feels personal.
Accommodations vary depending on where you stay on the property. Some rooms lean into that vintage cabin feel with rich wood tones and cozy layers, while others are more modern and streamlined. The only hiccup is the in room air conditioning units, which can get a little noisy at night. Fortunately, OTIS is already in the process of upgrading to central air.
And there’s more to come. Plans are in the works to expand the outdoor space, add a pool, and introduce curated seasonal experiences. OTIS is growing with purpose, not just scale.
Final Verdict:
for food, cocktails, and service
for accommodations and late night
Central Kitchen + Bar
From page B-1
rare constants in a city that keeps evolving—something people know will deliver every time.
Central has been as much a meeting place as it has been a restaurant. Over the years, it has hosted everyone from office workers grabbing a quick lunch to concert goers ending their night, from entrepreneurs sketching out plans to civic leaders talking policy. Tourists often stumble in while exploring downtown, but they quickly pick up on the fact that Central feels like a place made by and for Detroit.
The bond among the Central team runs deep, and when longtime team member Norris Schell passed in 2024, the loss reverberated across Detroit like a collec tive grief over a brother gone too soon. Norris wasn’t just a familiar face; he was Central through and through— his laugh carrying across the dining room, his warmth making every guest feel at home. As Archer said in the days after the tragedy, the space feels bigger without him, but also emptier. Though Norris is gone, the love he gave remains in the way the team greets guests, in the care they put into every plate, and in the countless mem ories that still bring smiles when his name comes up.
That kind of connection to people is part of what has kept Central thriving. Archer and his team have rooted the restaurant in local relationships, partnering with producers like Fairway Packing, Carmela Fine Foods, Tocco Produce, and Red Goose Spice. Those relationships strengthen Detroit’s food economy and keep quality high, but they also align with the restaurant’s com mitment to being part of the city’s ecosystem rather than just a busi ness in it.
Detroit is mistaken ly a city that has been underestimated more than once, yet Central’s staying power has proved that Detroiters can create spaces that draw people in without diluting what makes the city unique. One early review called the restaurant a reflection of “no apologies” con fidence, and a decade later, that description still fits. There’s a pride here that’s visible in the details—how the staff greets regulars by name, how the design never tries to mimic anywhere else, how the menu quietly tells a story about where the ingredients come from.
something meaningful back to the city. That means more than just serving meals—it means holding space for conversation, connection, and the kind of moments that make a place part of people’s personal maps of the city.
Beyond hospitality, Archer’s civic footprint runs deep. He’s not just a restaurateur—he’s a founder and chair of the Paradise Valley Foundation and serves on the board of the Detroit Paradise Valley Conservancy, where leaders guide programming that honors the neigh borhood’s cultural legacy and Black entrepreneurial roots. His real estate vision includes investment in Para dise Valley’s revival—working to restore the vibrancy of the historic African American district dismantled in the mid‑20th century. That extends the spirit behind Cen tral: building places that are deeply rooted in history, communi ty, and equity.
Over the last decade, the restaurant has watched the First National Building’s surroundings trans form. Cadillac Square has become more active, nearby busi nesses have opened and closed, and downtown’s sky line has shifted with new developments. Through it all, Central has kept its spot as a steady presence. Regulars know the faces of longtime staff, visitors remember the details of their first visit, and locals bring out of town guests here because it feels like a snapshot of Detroit hospitality.
OTIS Harbor Springs
and rooted in care. Whether you’re escaping solo, with your partner, or with your girls, it’s the kind of place that wel comes you in and makes you want to stay just a little longer. And yes, I’m already planning my return.
Just announced: A new reason to hit the road this fall.
Detroit’s first and only MICHELIN Key hotel, Shi nola Hotel, and OTIS Harbor Springs have teamed up for a limited time City to Shore Experience. The curated road trip offers the best of both worlds, immersing guests in the vibrant energy of downtown Detroit and the laid back charm of Northern Michigan, right as the fall colors hit their peak.
This first ever partnership between the two design for ward boutique hotels, both featuring interiors by Shinola’s Creative Director Daniel Caudill, taps into the rising “detour destination” trend.
Available for select September and October dates, the package includes:
■ Wednesday and Thursday nights in Shinola Hotel’s Cass King accommodations
■ Friday and Saturday nights in OTIS Harbor Springs’ Lake side Superior rooms
■ A $100 dining credit at both properties
■ Complimentary breakfast each morning
Space is limited. To reserve, contact Shinola Hotel at 313 356 1400 or reservations@shinolahotel.com.
The NOW Massage
That pride has carried Central through challenges, including the unpredictability of the last few years in the restaurant industry. While many places closed or scaled back, Central adapted. The patio became a safe haven for diners looking for open‑air seating, menus shifted to include more carry‑out‑friendly options, and community engagement stayed a priority. The resilience was a reflection of the same Detroit grit that inspired the restaurant’s founding.
Now, marking its 10th anniversary, the team is look ing forward as much as it is looking back. Plans are in motion to refresh the patio space, expand communi ty‑focused events, and continue introducing seasonal dishes that reflect Detroit’s diverse food scene. The goal isn’t to reinvent Central, but to keep it evolving in a way that still feels authentic.
Archer describes the milestone as both a celebration and a checkpoint. Detroit has shaped Central’s identity in every way, and in return, Central has aimed to give
The anniversary is also a reminder that Central’s story is inseparable from the city’s ongoing one. The restaurant opened at a time when downtown was re building momentum, and it played a role in making the area a destination again. Its success shows how spaces that value both design and community can last, even as trends come and go.
As Archer puts it, “Detroit made us, and we’re just getting started.” That starting point is a decade in, with plans that stretch into the years ahead. The restaurant isn’t chasing the newest thing—it’s investing in the rela tionships and traditions that got it here.
For diners, that means walking into a space where the details matter, where the food delivers, and where the atmosphere feels like Detroit—layered, resilient, and still moving forward. In a city known for its rein vention, Central Kitchen + Bar has managed to become something rare: a place that’s as much about where it’s been as where it’s going.
Ebony JJ Curry can be reached at ecurry@michronicle. com.
shoulders and neck. The Scalp Renewal, which doubles as a deeply relaxing scalp massage, is another gem. It uses hydrat ing oils and focused touch to stimulate blood flow and re lease tension that we often carry unknowingly in the head and temples. Together, these enhancements turn a regular massage into a full body heal ing ritual. Now, let’s talk ambiance. While the space is visually calming and smells divine thanks to curated essential oils, it’s important to note that this isn’t a traditional spa with locker rooms, saunas, or plush lounges. You won’t find robes or cucumber water here. What you will find is an effi cient, beautiful setting that’s perfect for regular, mainte nance based self care. It’s ideal
for squeezing in a session after work or during a busy week end, but if you’re looking for a luxurious all day escape, you might find it a bit minimalist. For that reason, the ambiance earns a solid 4 out of 5. However, when it comes to the massage itself, The NOW Birmingham deserves a full 5 out of 5. The therapists are attentive, well trained, and genuinely attuned to the needs of each guest. Whether you’re walking in with physi cal pain or emotional fatigue, you’re likely to walk out feel ing lighter, clearer, and better able to meet life’s demands. It’s not about escape, it’s about realignment. And for that, The NOW offers something truly necessary. Visit https:// www.thenowmassage.com/ boutique/birmingham to book your appointment.
Big things, small things, life-changing things, we’re here to make your health better.
