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Locally owned March 17 - 23, 2021 EE
www.lansingcitypulse.com
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Will the Don bless the
Michigan GOP?
City Pulse Ads.qxp_Layout 1 3/15/21 12:48 PM Page 1 See page 13
2 www.lansingcitypulse.com City Pulse • March 17, 2021
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4 www.lansingcitypulse.com City Pulse • March 17, 2021
VOL. 20
ISSUE 32
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City Pulse • March 17, 2021 www.lansingcitypulse.com 5
PULSE NEWS & OPINION
‘New’ Virg — old tune
Former Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero maintains It’s the same man who offered an unexplained
that he has fundamentally changed since he decid- $160,000-plus payout in 2016 to a former city attor-
ed to leave office at the end of his third term in ney Janine McIntyre. We still don’t know the details
2017. He’s running for mayor this year not as a per- over why McIntyre’s attorney threatened a sexual
fect man, but as a “better man” — now with grand- harassment lawsuit days before that payout, or why
children and a much cooler temper. it never came to fruition.
And for a brief moment after he was accused One of the women said Mayor Bernero “groped”
last month by two women of sexual harassment, her in downtown Lansing in 2010, running his hand
Bernero might have had Lansing fooled. Though up and down her thigh on Washington Avenue.
he didn’t recall either incident, he seemed deeply Another woman claimed Bernero — who was then a
apologetic about the potential that he could have state senator — had called her repeatedly from the
done something wrong. He even went as far as to floor in 2004 and complimented her legs.
label the behavior as “unacceptable and wrong.” His The biggest problems for Bernero: He labels
words showed promise. these women liars. He also baselessly claims that
Three days later during an interview with Michael the allegations against him were orchestrated by
Patrick Shiels, the “better man” Bernero was seem- Mayor Andy Schor. It’s “toxic politics,” Bernero said.
ingly back to the same old Virg, denying any wrong- In other words, it’s anything other than recognition
doing whatsoever. Color us shocked. that he could’ve made some mistakes.
Both women told their stories to City Pulse under Let’s be clear: These allegations are not an
the condition they be allowed to remain anonymous
out of fear of retaliation — possibly from Bernero The CP Edit attempt to “cancel” Bernero’s campaign. This is
about holding men accountable when they’ve been
or his high-powered political allies. And Bernero’s repeatedly accused of victimizing women in our
conduct over the last several weeks has made it Opinion community. It’s also a clear preview of how one of
clear why that was necessary. Shiels asked Bernero our mayoral candidates plans to tackle accountabil-
during the interview if he knew the identity of one of accountable. ity issues if elected: Deny. Deny. Deny. And appar-
the women. Our reporters later asked him whether Scrutiny of women who are sexually victimized ently just hope it all disappears.
he believed the women. Bernero replied: “Believe is far from unfamiliar. Instead, we need to acknowl- It’s important to take a stand against sexual mis-
who?” edge the truth behind their experiences. Bernero conduct, not deny the experiences of those who
The former mayor’s flat denial of two credible — and his would-be voters — need to focus on val- claimed to have been victimized from it. A mayoral
allegations of sexual harassment is more than trou- idating their allegations rather brushing them off as platform should instead focus on identifying inap-
bling. But playing a game of guess-the-accuser on politically motivated bad actors. propriate behaviors and adopting clear policies to
the radio is simply beyond the pale. Bernero may Don’t ask why these women waited until now to eliminate them from the workplace. It should be
have been better off staying forgetful and keeping tell their stories. Ask what sorts of factors and power about recognizing power dynamics and the lived
his mouth closed. As history has shown, howev- dynamics could have prevented them from blowing experiences of the traumatized.
er, that may represent a truly impossible feat for the whistle on a mayor or senator. The mayor, in particular, has a responsibility to
Lansing’s “Angry Mayor.” Survivors of sexual harassment and assault may implement preventative training and provide the
People can make up stories. But let’s also not feel understandably hesitant about coming forward tools needed to recognize and report harassment. A
ignore the reality that false accusations of this with their experiences. They may be afraid of being mayor should be focused on empowering the voices
nature are incredibly rare. Data from the Office on painted as exaggerating storytellers or liars. They of those who have been wronged, not minimizing
Violence Against Women shows that only up to 8% could be embarrassed. They could also fear retalia- their allegations and denying them.
of sexual assault allegations turn out to be false. tion from their alleged abuser. For those reasons, we propose another response
In other words, men are more likely be raped in And in Bernero’s case, none of them seem too — a better response — that indicates a true will-
America than to have falsified allegations of sexual shocking a theory. This is the same man known to ingness and capability to recognize, learn and grow
harassment brought against them. berate his political enemies with derogatory names. from mistakes. And it’s one that we’re not so sure
The takeaway: We need to believe survivors — We’ve heard “fatass” and “piece of shit.” Bernero can muster after his appalling response
particularly when they come with witnesses, as do It’s the same man who called a tribal spokesper- exhibited over the last few weeks.
these victims. And for Bernero, it’s past time to be son “Chief Chicken Little” at a fundraiser in 2012.
Send letters to the editor to letters@lansingcitypulse.com.
Please limit them to 250 words
6 www.lansingcitypulse.com City Pulse • March 17, 2021
Nettles’ law license nearly reinstated; ‘I have a future’
For Beverly grateful to clear what seemed at Racial sensitive training wasn’t
POLITICS
Nettles, the 10-year times to be an insurmountable hurdle exactly a widespread thing.
ordeal of getting after being tossed off the bench and The State Court Administrative
her law license stripped of her law license. Office couldn’t find anything to
rein- “My hope is to be an inspiration to Nettles’ claims that she was treated
OPINION stated those who have had trials and trib- differently by the chief judge than
is near- ulations,” she said. “I hope my own her fellow judges. So, when she got
ly over. journey to fulfillment will lead others caught stuck in the legal soup due to
The former to not be conformists or complacent a messy divorce, she definitely didn’t
Ingham County or cowardly in dealing with difficult get the benefit of the doubt.
Circuit judge was told Feb. 24 that issues.” In 2008, the Michigan Supreme
the Michigan Attorney Discipline Say what you will about Nettles, Court agreed with six of the Judicial
Board unanimously decided to grant she’s certainly not any of the afore- Tenure Commission’s counts against
her eligibility for reinstatement. As mentioned three “Cs.” Nettles that she made false state-
soon as she completes a couple of The African-American one-time ments under oath about a divorce
legal brush-up courses, she will be jurist was before her time in calling proceeding, fabricated evidence and
allowed to practice law again. out implicit bias in the workplace. was excessively absent.
Theoretically, she’s young enough There wasn’t a name for it in 2006. The Attorney Discipline Board
(the state Constitution bans anyone Claims along those lines definitely proceeded to suspend her ability to
Courtesy Beverly Nettles
70 and older from the ballot) to run weren’t taken with the same level of practice law in Michigan for nearly
again for a judgeship … but that’s seriousness as they are in 2021. three years. They nailed her for one Former Ingham County Judge Beverly
getting ahead of things. Back then, it was “show us the single charge of fabricating an email Nettles has won a long battle to be
For now, Nettles, formerly known proof of racism.” You don’t have any- she attached to her JTC response. reinstated to the bar.
as Beverly Nettles-Nickerson, is just thing tangible? You lose. The three years came and went. See Nettles, Page 7
Dunbar: Reduce gun violence. Save money. Advance Peace.
By KATHIE DUNBAR works in multiple cities to reduce in gun violence prevention at this per gun-related injury. Multiply that
Opinion gun violence and promote com- time — until one realizes how much by the number of homicides and
(Kathie Dunbar munity healing. It puts those most we already spend on gun violence. nonlethal shootings in Lansing last
is an at-large severely impacted by cyclical and In addition to lives lost and fami- year and it becomes clear that we
member of the retaliatory gun violence at the center lies torn apart, gun violence results cannot afford the status quo.
Lansing City of developing solutions that stop the in significant incidental costs to The University of California,
Council and cycle and support change. our city. These include crime scene Berkeley recently evaluated the
executive director Advance Peace employs for- response teams, emergency medical social and economic impacts of
of the Southwest merly incarcerated individuals as treatment, police investigations, fees Advance Peace in the cities of
Lansing Neighborhood Change Agents. for defense and prosecution, court Sacramento and Stockton, where
Community Agents then act as “credible mes- administration, incarceration, lost targeted districts experienced an
Development sengers,” forming relationships tax revenue and victim support. That average 20% reduction in gun-relat-
Association. She’s also running for with suspected firearm offenders also doesn’t even begin to calculate ed homicides and injuries. In some
another term in November.) and encouraging participation in the added long-term cost to victims areas, the results were as high as
In last week’s City Pulse article a Peacemaker Fellowship. Fellows and families, such as lost wages, 47%.
about Lansing’s rising homicide receive 18 months of mentoring, case ongoing medical bills, long-term dis- The benefit-cost ratio used to ana-
rate, Lansing Mayor Andy Schor management, educational and travel ability and mental health treatment. lyze the financial impact of Advance
was quoted as saying, “I think we’re opportunities, life skills training, People exposed to gun violence Peace is based on homicides and
doing all that we can.” If that’s the subsidized employment and trauma experience life-altering trauma, nonlethal injuries that were suc-
case, it’s time to try something dif- therapy. which can lead to post-traumatic cessfully circumvented. At a min-
ferent. As the mayor prepares his Agents also conduct daily out- stress disorder, depression, poor imum, those ratios in Sacramento
next fiscal budget, I urge him to reach, mediate street conflicts, inter- academic performance and delin- and Stockton were 18 to 1 and 47
include funding for Advance Peace. rupt imminent violence and respond quency for children, substance to 1, respectively. That means every
Lansing experienced the high- to shootings. They provide referrals abuse, risky sexual behavior and $1 invested in Advance Peace saved
est number of homicides in three and navigation support, facilitat- retaliatory violence. Gun violence these cities $18 to $47 in costs relat-
decades last year, the majority of ing access to much needed social negatively impacts local economies ed to gun violence.
which were gun related. While that services. Fellows develop and work by depressing home values, deterring Knowing that economic distress
invariably leads some residents to toward personal and professional commercial investment and slowing exacerbates gun violence, we cannot
demand more police action, law life management action plans, while job creation. wait for economic recovery before
enforcement cannot address the sys- agents provide them with resources, Many studies also demonstrate investing in programs like Advance
temic roots of gun violence or miti- incentives and encouragement to the staggering cost of gun violence Peace. There is no tomorrow for
gate the intersecting factors of race, reach their goals. to cities across the country. The those killed by gun violence. The
poverty and inequality. Programs Yes. The city has budgetary Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun time to invest in gun violence pre-
like Advance Peace can, and do. restraints and municipal costs con- Violence estimates the average cost vention is now.
Founded by Lansing native tinue to rise. One can easily argue per city is close to $1 million per
DeVone Boggan, Advance Peace that Lansing has no money to invest gun-related homicide and $435,000
City Pulse • March 17, 2021 www.lansingcitypulse.com 7
All adults eligible to receive vaccine in Michigan next month
Ingham Community Health should call one of three locations:
CORONAVIRUS IN MICHIGAN
Centers expands clinics to
Forest Community Health Center WEEK 52
at 517-887-4302; Birch Community BY THE NUMBERS…
new patients Health Center at 517-244-8030; or
New Hope Community Health Center
All Michigan residents ages 16 at 517-887-4400. Michigan Eaton County
and up will be eligible to receive a At least 47 cases of the B.1.1.7 CASES DEATHS VACC. CASES DEATHS VACC.
COVID-19 vaccine beginning April 5, COVID-19 variant, which originat- 3/9/21 598,968 15,699 2,648,786 3/9/21 5,782 152 32,350
state officials announced this week. ed in the United Kingdom, have 3/16/21 612,628 15,810 3,084,284 3/16/21 5,938 153 38,297
And beginning Monday, all those been detected among “several school Weekly Ç2.7% Ç0.7% Ç17.3%
over the age of 50 will be made eli- Weekly Ç2.3% Ç0.7% Ç16.4%
sports teams” at Grand Ledge Public Change Change
gible to receive their shots. New state Schools. Clinton Co.
guidelines also make those 16 and up Those cases reportedly include at Greater Lansing CASES DEATHS VACC.
with disabilities or medical condi- least 29 middle and high school stu- CASES DEATHS VACC.
tions eligible for a vaccine beginning 3/9/21 4,486 68 19,180
dents, coaches and staff, as well as 3/9/21 26,112 496 130,290
next week. 3/16/21 4,594 68 21,989
their close contacts. Officials fear the 3/16/21 26,822 504 152,211
More than 3 million doses have spread could be more severe because Weekly Ç2.4% Ç0% Ç14.6%
Weekly Ç2.7% Ç1.6% Ç16.8%
been administered statewide to date. the B.1.1.7 variant is reported to be Change
Change
And according to state officials, that much more contagious than other
puts Michigan on track to eventual- Ingham County The “Vaccines” category refers to
forms of the coronavirus.
ly vaccinate all residents ages 16 and CASES DEATHS VACC. the total number of doses admin-
The Lansing State Journal reports
older. that a separate, unknown number of 3/9/21 15,844 276 78,760 istered to patients that reported
All residents are encouraged to cases have also been tied to Okemos 3/16/21 16,290 283 91,925 living within each jurisdiction,
register for appointments with mul- Public Schools students that recent- Weekly Ç2.8% Ç2.5% Ç16.7% according to state data. Patients
tiple providers. Health care officials ly increased their in-person learning Change require two doses.
will still be encouraged to prioritize hours.
vaccines to patients with the highest A St. Patricks
risk, including older residents and Day order from
essential workers. Vaccinations are East Lansing explained in a press release. The $1.9 trillion plan also provides
currently underway for residents age Mayor Aaron Masks are still required across $5.9 billion for Michigan, of which
50 and older with medical conditions Stephens lim- much of East Lansing. Violations can the city of Lansing is expected to col-
or disabilities and caregiver family its all outdoor result in fines of up to $25. lect about $50 million. Added Mayor
members and guardians. gatherings to Any licensed establishment that Andy Schor: “These dollars are criti-
Outside of Michigan, President Joe no more than violates the statewide 11 p.m. curfew cal to be able to continue to provide
Biden has issued a directive that all 15 people and also risks suspension or revocation of Lansing residents with the City ser-
adults should be eligible to receive a prohibits out- its liquor and business licenses. State vices that they expect.”
vaccine by May 1. Despite the local door lines for law also requires adherence to local — KYLE KAMINSKI
jumpstart, state officials expect it Stephens law. Report violations to the East
entry into busi-
may still take several weeks beyond nesses, bars Lansing Police Department by calling
April 5 for everyone who wants a vac- and restaurants 517-251-4220, option 2.
cine to receive an appointment. from today through 2 a.m. Thursday. State and local leaders lauded the
The idea: Temporarily limit the abili- passage of the American Rescue Plan
In related news… ty for St. Patrick’s Day parties to spin which is designed, in part, to make
Those eligible for a vaccine may now out of control within the city. health coverage through the Health
connect with the Ingham Community “With the ongoing COVID-19 pan- Insurance Marketplace more afford-
Health Centers to be vaccinated, demic in mind, we want to be able to able and accessible for Michiganders
regardless of whether they are estab- break up areas where there are large struggling with the economic fallout
lished patients. Interested patients congregations of people,” Stephens of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Nettles
or unintentional, but you have to She watched former Livingston called “Stand” that goes like this:
recognize what you should have done County Judge Theresa Brennen get “Tell me, how do you handle the
and what you did wrong and go down bounced off the bench for having guilt of your past? Tell me, how do
that path of self-reflection.” an extramarital affair with the lead you deal with the shame? And how
from page 6
She said she realizes the email that investigator on a murder trial that can you smile while your heart has
sank her legal career was a mistake. was before her court. been broken and filed with pain? …
Her license wasn’t reinstated. She Several other mistakes were made, as Did her conduct really rise to that You just stand.”
tried again in 2015. Still no go. She well. same level, Nettles asked herself. She “I tried to do that,” Nettles said.
fought the decisions all the way to the After this many years, she’s come watched other judges convicted of “I was not going to give up. I have a
U.S. Supreme Court. In 2017, they to peace with her seemingly overly actual crimes get a lighter banish- future.”
looked into her claims that she’d been harsh punishment because she said ment than she received. (Kyle Melinn of the Capitol News
wronged. She lost again. she’s had to. When the frustration of this per- Service MIRS is at Melinn@gmail.
“I did make mistakes,” Nettles con- “Carrying that burden of hate, it ceived injustice swelled in her heart, com.)
ceded. “Mistakes happen. Intentional will make you old and bitter. I didn’t Nettles said she’d lean on the lyrics
want that,” Nettles said. of a Donnie McClurkin gospel song
8 www.lansingcitypulse.com City Pulse • March 17, 2021
REWIND
NEWS HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE LAST 7 DAYS
By KYLE KAMINSKI
Lansing flouts open records laws
Old Sears hits The Lansing City Attorney’s Office has not been
complying with Attorney General guidelines and the
redevelopment market Freedom of Information Act when fulfilling recent
Bright orange “Now Available” signs public records requests, reports the Lansing State
popped up on the former Sears building Journal. City officials — in disagreement with an AG
near the Frandor Shopping Center. The opinion on the matter — have delayed the allowed
Gillespie Group, which owns the 14-acre response window under the FOIA from 15 days to 18
parcel, is exploring plans that could days. City officials have blamed extensions on short-
include a mix of entertainment, retail, ened four-day staff work weeks amid the pandemic.
residential and “experience-driven” activ-
ities. Owner Pat Gillespie told City Pulse: The snow is gone. Rake your leaves.
“We’ve probably had more than 25 differ- Capital Area Recycling and Trash will resume curb-
ent site plans drawn up. Nothing is hard side yard waste collection in Lansing on April 19. In
and fast. It’s all a clean slate.” He hopes the meantime, a drop-off site will open on Saturdays
to begin redevelopment by next year. at 601. E. South St.
Officers may dodge charges New ‘neighborhood’ set for Dewitt Lansing home to state’s
in jail death Redwood DeWitt is building 100 single-story apart- oldest woman
The family of Anthony Hulon, ments on Clarion Road. Residents are set to move in Irene Dunham, 113, who recent-
who was choked to death last year by May. Units range from 1,300 to 1,700 square feet. ly moved from Lansing to Dewitt,
in the Lansing Police Department Monthly rent starts at $1,674. became the oldest woman in
lock-up beneath City Hall, said Michigan. She’s reportedly the
they have learned the officers East Lansing Mother’s Day contest sixth oldest person in the U.S. and
involved won’t face criminal Local residents can send in pictures of their moth- the 22nd oldest in the world.
Dunham
charges, reports the Lansing State er or caregiver in downtown East Lansing along with
Journal. Meanwhile, Attorney a short narrative (30 words or less) about why that Overturned murder charges lead
General Dana Nessel’s office Hulon person is special to them for a chance to win gift cards to lawsuit
would neither confirm or deny for downtown East Lansing businesses. Submissions Herbert Alford, a man sentenced to 30 years in
the reports, noting a release of their findings could be are due to the Downtown Development Authority by prison in 2016 for a murder in Lansing, is suing
weeks away. April 26 at cityofeastlansing.com/youarespecialtome. Hertz rental cars for failing to produce evidence that
overturned his charges last year. ABC News reports
Startups compete for free space Whitmer targets separation agreements Alford spent nearly five years behind bars, in part,
A contest announced by Lansing Mayor Andy Schor Following backlash over taxpay- because his attorneys were unable to obtain a receipt
offers one entrepreneur a full-ride scholarship into er-funded separation agreements, from Hertz that proved he was miles away from the
the business world — including free rent for one year the governor signed an executive murder scene.
at a 3,000-square-foot downtown office and a pack- order that limits their continued
age that includes free marketing, renovations, insur- use in government. The mandate New enrollment declines at MSU
ance and more. The idea: Strengthen the economy of prohibits contracts that require Michigan State University had
Lansing, particularly as the pandemic lingers in 2021. parties to deny the existence of more than 2,200 fewer students for
Visit lansingbuilttolast.com for application require- those agreements and requires the spring semester, about a 4.5%
ments and details about the new contest. that any payouts use “reasonable decline from nearly 50,000 stu-
Whitmer
judgement” and only be used to dents that enrolled last fall, reports
Movie studio opens in south Lansing “mitigate financial risk for the state and protect tax- the Lansing State Journal. The
Ha p t i x Studio, payer money.” Contracts also now require a formal decline was attributed, in part, to
which bills itself as the attorney general review. the COVID-19 pandemic which shifted most classes
state’s largest motion online for both semesters. Most in-person classes are
capture and multime- Nominations open for Crystal Awards set to resume this year.
dia space, opened for East Lansing is accepting nomina-
rentals and for teachers to bring students on Wise tions for people, businesses, nonprof- GM halts assembly in Lansing
Road in south Lansing. The studio offers an educa- its and other community groups that The Grand River Assembly plant is temporarily
tional space for students as well as for curriculum have made “outstanding contribu- closed through the end of March due to a worldwide
planning for teachers. Private rentals are also avail- tions to community life” in the city. semiconductor shortage, reports the Lansing State
able by appointment for audio and video capture and Submissions for this year’s awards Journal. The plant employs about 1,400 people and
production. Email hello@haptixstudio.com or visit are due by April 15. Visit cityofeast- builds the Chevrolet Camaro and the Cadillac CT4
haptixstudio.com for more details about the studio. lansing.com/crystalawards for details. and CT5.
City Pulse • March 17, 2021 www.lansingcitypulse.com 9
Bernero donors stand in defense of ‘America’s Horniest Mayor’
A full back-page advertisement in City LOOK WHO’S BANKROLLING... on what I know about Virg’s past and Asked about Bernero’s subsequent
Pulse can cost more than $1,400. It’s what I’ve seen him do for this city,” denial, Manzella responded: “Oh. Well,
’s
America
no cheap feat to label former Lansing said Realtor Paul Brown, who donated that’s a bummer.”
Mayor Virg Bernero as “America’s
t $2,100 as Bernero assembled his cam- Others on the donor list were careful
Horniest Mayor” — especially in text
this large. So, who’s bankrolling the first Hornies! paign last year. “Obviously, I don’t con-
done any type of sexual harassment and
to separate themselves from their com-
panies. Elizabeth Jones, for instance,
mudslinging attack ad of the mayoral
campaign? Mayor I won’t be making any future donations
if the truth comes out and those are the
said she’s “essentially an accountant”
for DTN Student Rentals. The compa-
Michigan Deserves Better is. Lansing KRIS NICHOLOFF, CEO AND LOBBYIST: $1,000
ELIZABETH JONES, DTN STUDENT RENTALS: $2,000
EARDMENT MACKENZIE, CHAIRMAN, E.T. MACKENZIE: $2,100
EDGER HARDEN, CEO, CAPITOL NATIONAL BANK: $500
actual facts. I’d never condone that.” ny made a $2,000 donation, but it’s no
political consultant Joe DiSano, owner PAUL FRICK, D.C. CONSULTANT: $1,000
JOSEPH MANZELLA II, DIRECTOR, QUICKEN LOANS: $1,000
SAGAR SETH, CEO, MOEBIUS: $1,000
STEVE CALVERLEY, CEO, MAPLEGROVE PROPERTY MGMT: $500
VAN MARTIN, CEO, MARTIN COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES: $1,000
KRISTIN CARLTON, OWNER, CLEAN CLEANING LLC: $1,500
He added: “I would’ve liked to have reflection of her personal beliefs, she
of DiSano Strategies, is behind the fund. KEVIN SCOTT, FAST FOOD ENTREPRENEUR: $1,000
JANE HOURANI, HOMEMAKER: $1,000
WILLIAM DEMMER, CEO, DEMMER CORP.: $1,000
AMANDA SHAMOON, UNEMPLOYED: $1,500
PAUL BROWN, REALTOR, KELLER WILLIAMS: $2,100 seen the current mayor a bit more active added.
And he expects more such ads to come. MICHAEL MARKS, CEO, E.T. MACKENZIE: $1,000
Source: Virg Bernero for Lansing 2020 campaign finance report, ingham.org
(WATCH THIS SPACE IN JULY FOR A COMPLETE LIST!)
in the city. There were times when I Edgar Harden, the CEO of Capitol
“Nobody wants to go back to the years thought Gov. Gretchen Whitmer was National Bank, said he donated $500
Source: Virg Bernero for Lansing, 2020 Campaign Finance Report, ingham.org
of Virg Bernero in Lansing,” DiSano more of a mayor than Andy Schor. Virg to both Bernero and Schor’s campaigns
said. “We just got rid of Trump. This Paid for by Michigan Deserves Better,
has been active in our community and last year. He was also undecided wheth-
just isn’t at all what this city needs right deserves a fair shot of responding to er he would keep them coming.
PO Box 14222, Lansing, MI 48901
now.” A full-page ad that appears on the back these claims.” “They’re still only allegations. I guess
Bernero, who is seeking an unprece- page of today’s City Pulse is part of a Joe Manzella II, an executive at we’ll wait and see what happens,”
dented fourth term, has announced he campaign to discredit former Mayor Quicken Loans, said he doesn’t have any Harden said.
is taking on Andy Schor, the incumbent regrets about his $1,000 donation to Messages left with other corporate offi-
Bernero, who is seeking a return to
who replaced him in 2018 after Bernero the Bernero campaign — even after his cials at DTN Student Rentals were not
City Hall.
sat out the election in 2017. Lansing name was mentioned in DiSano’s recent returned for this story. Other Bernero
City Councilwoman Patricia Spitzley in office. One said he “groped” her in ad. He also said Bernero’s willingness to donors included on the advertised list —
has also announced, as have four less- downtown Lansing in 2010, when he apologize and “own” his mistakes make including Paul Frick, William Demmer,
er known candidates, Arielle Padilla, was serving his second term as mayor. him redeemable. Sagar Seth, Kevin Scott, Jane Hourani,
Jeffery Handley, Larry Hutchinson Jr., The other said Bernero made a series of “When we talked, he told me that he Michael Marks, Eardment Mackenzie,
and Melissa Huber. unwanted and sexually charged phone wants to get back and do some good Steve Calverley and Van Martin — didn’t
The ad responds to two accusations calls to her in 2004, while was a state things. He also said he was a different return voicemails and emails from City
of sexual harassment leveled against senator. man than he was a few years ago, so I Pulse this week. Bernero also didn’t
Bernero two weeks ago. It also lists Bernero initially labeled the behav- felt very comfortable with that idea that respond to a request for comment about
individuals and their business ties who ior as “unacceptable and wrong,” while people can be redeemed through humil- advertisement.
donated to Bernero’s fledgling reelec- pointing out he did not recall either ity, saying sorry and truly meaning it,” — KYLE KAMINSKI
tion campaign before the allegations incident, and apologized to both wom- Manzella said.
surfaced. en. But three days later, he flatly denied
Michigan Deserves Better — not to be the survivors’ stories during a radio
interview. He also proferred a baseless CAPITAL AREA TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY
confused with the Super PAC with an
identical name — is a tax-exempt social conspiracy that Schor had somehow PUBLIC NOTICE OF PROPOSED STATE AND FEDERAL APPLICATIONS FOR
encouraged the two women to make OPERATING, CAPITAL ASSISTANCE AND PUBLIC HEARING
welfare organization registered with the
IRS as a 501(c)(4) nonprofit. DiSano up the stories and present them to City All citizens are advised that CAPITAL AREA TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (“CATA”) has
said he is president, guided by a board. Pulse. prepared an application for State of Michigan (“State”) financial assistance for fiscal year 2022
as required under Act 51 of the Public Acts of 1951, as amended, and for federal assistance as
He refused to disclose funding Bernero agreed last week to work with required under the federal transit laws, as amended, as follows:
amounts or name donors but noted that the executive director of the Firecracker
State Operating Assistance $16,824,253
“no money is coming in from outside the Foundation — which deals with survi- FTA/State Urban Capital Program (Section 5307) $ 8,658,341
area.” DiSano also said the group has no vors of sexual trauma — as he contin- State Specialized Services $ 46,828
FTA Rural Operating Assistance (Section 5311) $ 476,843
ties to Schor or his reelection campaign. ues to face public backlash from the FTA/State Bus and Bus Facilities (Section 5339) $ 1,079,515
The IRS doesn’t require Michigan accusations. Still, he continued to deny FTA/State Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality $ 342,162
FTA/State Enhanced Mobility (Section 5310) $ 484,370
Deserves Better to release its finan- the accusations at a Black Lives Matter TOTAL $27,912,312
cial activity. And while the group can forum last week.
Operating and capital funds listed above include both urban and rural funds. Capital projects to be
promote “social welfare,” as described “I’m sorry for anybody that I’ve hurt, funded include the purchase of large and small buses, paratransit vehicles for transporting customers
in federal law, that does not allow for and I mean that sincerely. I’m sure that and support vehicles; preventive maintenance, technology systems, planning, maintenance
equipment, bus replacement parts, safety and security system, customer enhancements and
direct (or indirect) support or opposi- I’ve offended people with my words. facility improvements. This notice meets the Federal Transit Administration 5307 public notification
tion to any candidate for public office. I can’t really apologize for something requirement. The above program will be the final program, unless amended.
However, a 501(c)(4) organization may that I did not do. I believe in a culture CATA ensures that the level and quality of transportation service is provided without regard to
engage in “some” political activity, as of consequence — and not in a culture race, color or national origin in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. For more
of cancellation,” Bernero said, tripling information regarding our Title VI obligations or to file a complaint, please contact our Deputy CEO
long as that is not its “primary” activity. at the address below.
“I was galvanized when I heard down on his denial.
Virg was going back into politics. The Among those listed in the recent The proposed application is on file at CATA, 4615 Tranter Street, Lansing, and may be reviewed
during a 30-day period (March 15, 2021 – April 14, 2021), Monday – Friday, between the hours of
moment I became completely angry attack ad are local and out-of-state busi- 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
was when he tried to play a game of ness executives, Bernero’s neighbors on
Written comments regarding the application and/or written requests for a public hearing to review
guess-the-accuser in a radio interview Cambridge Drive, lobbyists and more. the application must be received by 5 p.m. April 14, 2021. If a hearing is requested, notice of the
with Michael Patrick Shiels. It was the And so far, none of them are shying scheduled date, time and location will be provided at least 10 days in advance.
most smug, misogynistic conversation,” away from their continued support — Submittals should be sent to CAPITAL AREA TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY, FY 2022 Grant
DiSano said. even after the latest harassment allega- Application, Attn: Grants Department, 4615 Tranter Street, Lansing, MI 48910 or via email to
marketing@cata.org
Two women told City Pulse that tions. CP#21-049
Bernero sexually harassed them while “My support is completely based
10 www.lansingcitypulse.com City Pulse • March 17, 2021
Assessment to determine future of Moores Park Pool in Lansing
Fundraising efforts specifics, but noted the city hasn’t set
a hard cap on its share of any eventu-
showcase lasting desire to al repairs. Meetings between his staff
repair city-owned pool and the Friends of Moores Park Pool
will help chart out the next steps.
A fundraising group is inching clos- Schor hasn’t responded to messages
er toward its goal of raising $30,000 from City Pulse this week.
amid efforts to reopen the city-owned Gracia-Wing said that the $60,000
Moores Park Pool, which was closed assessment — funded by the city of
indefinitely in 2019. Lansing — would have continued
Up next: Assessing the extent of regardless of the group’s fundraising
repairs needed to safely bring the efforts. Still, whatever amount it ends
historic but decaying public pool up up raising will be donated to the city
to snuff and finding ways to work as a gesture of community support
alongside the city to help cover the aimed at keeping the pool operation-
costs of the work. City officials expect al.
to release a report that includes more “I know the community has felt
detailed cost estimates next week. really burned in the past,” Gracia-
“This is really all geared at allowing Courtesy Historical Society of Greater Lansing Wing added. “This was really a way
us to start fleshing out an actionable The historic Moores Park Pool was designed by former Lansing City Engineer to put some skin in the game at the
strategy with tactics, roles, respon- Wesley Bintz. first possible step of this and actually
sibilities and concrete goals,” said do something. Our donation is really
Veronica Gracia-Wing, chairwoman private donations and grant funding shortfalls — only knocked the pool just sort of a cherry on the cake so we
of the Friends of Moores Park Pool. to help cover the costs of assessing lower on the city’s budgetary priori- can take a look at all of this.”
“Over the next several weeks, we’ll be the disrepair of the iconic pool. ty list. It stayed closed last summer Of course, those who donated to the
able to sit down, chat through strat- City officials closed the facility in and certainly won’t be refilled again fundraising campaign run the “risk”
egies and figure out how we’re going fall 2019 and announced that it would in time for this summer, officials said. of having no actual return on their
to approach this.” need at least $1.2 million in repairs Meanwhile, city officials have paid investment, Gracia-Wing recognized.
The Friends of Moores Park Pool before it could be safely reopened to a firm about $60,000 to assess the Schor’s administration could always
includes neighbors, environmental- the public. Leaks were costing about state of disrepair while the Friends decide to use the cash to cover the
ists and preservationists. Over the $1,400 per week to keep it filled while of Moores Park Pool rallies the pres- assessment and then decide against
past several months, they’ve managed chlorinated water spilled into the soil ervationist troops. Gracia-Wing actually making the repairs.
to secure thousands of dollars in both below. The pandemic — and budget said donations have flooded in from Still, plenty of residents felt it was
across the globe. The Moores Park important to let their wallets illus-
Pool was designed by former Lansing trate their priorities. And the assess-
CITY OF LANSING City Engineer Wesley Bintz and also ment was necessary before anyone
SUMMARY OF
ADOPTED ORDINANCE # 1273 carries historical value beyond a sim- could begin making plans for repairs,
ple neighborhood oasis. she said.
Lansing City Council adopted an Ordinance of the City of Lansing, Michigan, to to repeal and
replace the existing Zoning Ordinance and Map, being Part 12, Title 6 of the Lansing Codified The 1922 ellipsoidal fieldstone “The Friends of Moores Park Pool
Ordinances in its entirety, except for Chapter 1300 – Marihuana Operations, with a Form Based rock-ring structure is the oldest sur- also feels strongly that our contribu-
Code and Zoning Map.
viving Bintz Pool in the nation, and tions can’t just be in dollars, but also
Effective date: May 1, 2021 as such it carries a bit of a cult fol- needs to be in the form of helping
Notice: The full text of this Ordinance is available for review at the City Clerk’s Office, 9th Floor, lowing among history buffs. Tucked develop a feasible, sustainable model
City Hall, Lansing, Michigan. A copy of the full text of this Ordinance may be obtained into a hillside overlooking the Eckert for the future. That’s how we’re plan-
from the City Clerk’s Office, 9th Floor, City Hall, Lansing, Michigan at a fee determined
by City Council. Power Station, it’s also listed on the ning to start moving our work for-
National Register of Historic Places. ward,” Gracia-Wing added.
Chris Swope, Lansing City Clerk, MMC/MiPMC
www.lansingmi.gov/Clerk Next week’s assessment report will Exactly how much of the group’s
www.facebook.com/LansingClerkSwope CP#21-050 help to lay the initial groundwork for $30,000 goal had been raised this
cost estimates, determine whether week remains a secret, but Gracia-
the repairs are feasible, and help offi- Wing has counted in over 300 indi-
CITY OF LANSING cials decide where the cash will come vidual donations from across the
SUMMARY OF from, explained Parks Director Brett country, an anonymous donor match
ADOPTED ORDINANCE # 1272
Kaschinske. It will also arrive just in up to $12,500 and another $2,500
Lansing City Council adopted an Ordinance of the City of Lansing, Michigan, to amend the Code time for budget season. match from Preservation Lansing.
of Ordinances of the City of Lansing by amending Chapter 240, Sections 240.01, 240.02, 240.03
And 240.04, Of The Lansing Codified Ordinances to restructure the Grant Award process for Basic Lansing Mayor Andy Schor is set “This is only the beginning,” she
Human Services. to submit his annual budget pro- said. “This is where the decision-mak-
Effective date: Upon publication posal to the City Council on Monday ing process starts.”
(March 22). It will be reviewed in Visit mhpn.org/mpp to learn more
Notice: The full text of this Ordinance is available for review at the City Clerk’s Office, 9th Floor, April and finalized in May. Advocates about the Moores Park Pool or to
City Hall, Lansing, Michigan. A copy of the full text of this Ordinance may be obtained
from the City Clerk’s Office, 9th Floor, City Hall, Lansing, Michigan at a fee determined like Gracia-Wing are keeping their make a donation.
by City Council. fingers crossed that it could include — KYLE KAMINSKI
Chris Swope, Lansing City Clerk, MMC/MiPMC financial support for the Moores Park
www.lansingmi.gov/Clerk Pool.
www.facebook.com/LansingClerkSwope CP#21-051
Kashinske said it’s too early to talkCity Pulse • March 17, 2021 www.lansingcitypulse.com 11
Here comes the neighborhood
Stylists Liz
Wiowiecki
and Ayanda
Mdlebe
Two long-empty enjoy the
buildings on West Ionia original
terrazzo
Street return to life flooring,
Last week, a man walked into the tin roof
Hair United salon at 513 W. Ionia and wood-
St., a quiet block where downtown framed
Lansing eases into the shady Genesee mirrors of
neighborhood to the north. Owner Courtesy Capital Area District Library Chauncy
Liz Winowiecki spritzed some water A 1940s photo of the storefronts from Corser’s
on the man’s hair, a prelude to apply- 513 to 517 W. Ionia, recently renovated long-lived
ing the scissors. “Chauncey used to by local developer Scott Schmidt, show barber shop
call that ‘sky juice,’” the customer told at 513 W.
a bakery, a hair salon and Bailey’s gro-
Winowiecki. Ionia.
cery store.
Chauncey Corser, a U.S. navy veter-
an and self-styled “tonsorial artist,” ran was surprised at the response it has
his little shop there from 1929 until he received. Lawence Cosentino/City Pulse
retired in 1984. Walk-ins were so reli- “This was always a neighborhood
able that he didn’t even have a phone. center, from a grocery store to the flow- connecting the two buildings. Schmidt imagine Corser getting excited about
Between customers, he carved birds er shop,” Schmidt said. “We’ve gotten speculated that it was used with a pul- solar panels. He didn’t even use a blow
and animals out of wood. away from that model, and now we’re ley to lift inventory to the top floor. dryer.)
Those days are gone — or are they? coming back.” In good weather, the little courtyard In back of the two buildings, a for-
After a $1.4 million restoration, two Before he had a chance to put togeth- between the buildings will host brew- mer parking lot is filled with about 20
modest but solid brick slabs in the er a far-reaching marketing plan, pub diners, Schmidt said. raised garden beds, tended by master
Genesee neighborhood near down- Winowiecki spotted the salon space The barbershop at 513 W. Ionia was gardeners and other members of near-
town Lansing are back in play after while walking by and jumped on it. vacant from Corser’s retirement in by Lansing First Presbyterian Church.
sitting empty for decades. “It was totally serendipity,” 1984 until this year. He died in 1998. The food raised will be shared with the
The storefronts from 513 to 517 W. Winowiecki said. “I worked in Meanwhile, several pharmacies moved Greater Lansing Food Bank.
Ionia St. have the same elegant mason- salons before that were community in and out of 517 W. Ionia, followed by a The only tenant in the two buildings
ry, the same frosting of glass bricks focused, so I knew it would be cool Westinghouse warehouse, Marcelino’s that many Lansing residents might
above the doors and the same classic to work in a neighborhood I live in.” Pizza Shop (in the early 1980s) and a remember is Belen’s Flowers, which
layout from the 1920s — four commer- The same goes for Steve Kelly, the printing shop. When Bailey’s Grocery occupied 515 W. Ionia from 1969 to
cial units below, six apartments above. owner of Salt Brewing Co. who saw the closed in 1959, another grocer had a 2010. Proprietor Lucile Belen was a
Five of those apartments are already space while visiting his girlfriend at brief run in the space but soon closed pillar of the city — a business leader,
occupied with a mix of single parents, nearby Fairview Apartments. as supermarkets took over the trade. philanthropist, entrepreneur and mem-
students, empty nesters, cats and dogs. Many of Chancey Corser’s customers The last tenant there, Rosary Book and ber of the Michigan Women’s Hall of
Hair United is the first commercial were lobbyists and state workers who Gift Shoppe, moved out in 2002. Fame. She served on the Lansing City
tenant. A new brewpub, Salt’s, will ambled over from their downtown As they settle in, Winoweicki and fel- Council for 37 years, from 1955 to 1992
move into the two ground floor units offices. (U.S. Sen. Philip Hart stopped low stylist Ayanda Mdlebe are adding and died on June 2, 2010, at age 97.
to the west later this year, leaving only by once.) Half a century later, the pat- wrinkles that crusty Chauncy Corser As the last business standing, the
one commercial space empty — at least tern is repeating itself for Winowiecki. never thought of. In the bathroom are flower shop hung on for a long time
for now. “We’ve already seen a good share of portraits of Amy Winehouse, Frida without doing much in the way of
Three months after opening the lobbyists,” she said. “One couple lives Kahlo and Prince, part of a series of upkeep, Schmidt said. He described the
salon, Winowiecki is getting much of around the corner. Both work for the “hair icons” painted by local Mexican work as a “complete gut rehab, down
her trade from people who live in the government, but for different parties, artist Ana Holguin, who is also a client. to the wall structure.” To restore a col-
neighborhood, including the units which I find fascinating.” Winowiecki grew up in Lansing, lapsed roof and ruined floor in the back
upstairs, just as Chauncy Corser did. Last week, Winowiecki got an email went to nearby Willow Elementary unit, Schmidt’s team tore out the floor
She bikes to work from her home a from a man whose grandmother, and fondly recalls chasing after the and dropped it two feet, providing a
block away. Frances Crays, briefly worked as a hair- “cool kids” — including her brother taller ceiling. They replaced it with sal-
The salon has the same terrazzo stylist in the building — around 1938. — at Eastern High School. After col- vaged wood from a house demolished
floor, the same tin ceilings and even “It’s pretty cool you are doing the lege in Ann Arbor and a stint in New by the land bank.
the same wood-framed mirrors it had same thing all this time later,” the man York City, she came back to settle in for As the project drew closer to com-
in Corser’s day. wrote. good. pletion, Schmidt also worked on and
“Those mirrors have been on those The older of the two buildings, 515- She expects that blocks of new apart- off with Dave Muylle, longtime restorer
walls for 70 to 90 years,” developer 517, was built in 1923, though parts ments going up both nearby and across of homes on Lansing’s east side. It was
Scott Schmidt said. “When we tore were built earlier. Grocer Orla Bailey much of downtown Lansing — both Muylle who persuaded Schmidt to roll
paneling off that wall, there they were.” established a store there in 1922, new and renovated — will help build his sleeves up and restore, instead of
Schmidt lives nearby, too. His devel- building around an older structure that her business to grow. replace, the apartment windows.
opment company, Vesta Building, hasn’t been dated for certain. Schmidt “I could see this being a niche neigh- “I find inspiration from Dave,”
has rehabbed several spaces around thinks parts of the building go back to borhood of Lansing that will develop Schmidt said. “You build it, you believe
Old Town and other parts of the 1904. Bailey built the second structure, its own flavor,” she said. in the community and things blossom
city. Schmidt set out to do a neigh- to the east, in 1925 as the grocery grew. Winowecki loves that Schmidt put from there.”
borhood-based project, but even he There is still a conspicuous I-beam solar panels on the roof. (It’s hard to — LAWRENCE COSENTINO12 www.lansingcitypulse.com City Pulse • March 17, 2021
Okemos Public Schools considers dropping ‘Chieftain’ mascot
“I know that it does mean a lot to
Students call for end to some people. It has to do with heritage,”
‘relentless mockery’ of Bolton said. “I’m not one of those peo-
ple, but I’d like to have a better sense
Indigenous identities of how the community feels about this.”
Okemos Public Schools could be in To facilitate that community input
search of a new mascot after district process, Hood scheduled two town hall
officials decide whether to drop its meetings from 7-8:30 p.m. April 14 and
longstanding “Chieftain” name, the last 15. More details will be announced at
remnant of a sports brand that once tricts and sports teams are changing okemos12.net this month.
included images of a Native American names altogether. School Board Member Jayme Taylor
heads, among other cultural references. The Detroit Free Press identified last said she will “carefully consider” the
A decision is anticipated in May. year at least 44 schools with nicknames, issue after Hood’s recommendation
For some students, alumni and board mascots or logos that made reference next month but otherwise declined to
members, the change can’t come quick- to Native Americans, including four Kyle Kaminski/City Pulse answer questions. Other board mem-
ly enough. that still used the term “Redskins.” Its Logos depicting an a Indian head that bers — Andrew Phelps, Melanie Lynn,
“For a school district that talks about listing also tracked dozens of schools were reportedly phased out by the Mary Gebara and Katie Cavanagh —
a commitment to equity, it is long over- and teams that had removed question- didn’t return emails.
Lansing School District last year were
due,” said school board member Vin able nicknames since 1990, including If it comes to a vote, four of the sev-
still visible from windows at J.W. Sexton
Lyon-Callo. “If the professional associ- the shift from “Hurons” to “Eagles” at en members of the board would need to
High School last week.
ations all suggest that such nicknames Eastern Michigan University. support the change.
cause harm, why would we as a school The only two that remain in Greater change it. It was also important for the The Native American Heritage Fund
district wish to continue to cause harm Lansing are the Okemos Chieftains board to make these decisions alongside also routinely doles out grant funding
if we don’t need to do so? Wouldn’t it and the “Big Reds” at J.W. Sexton High the community and work together.” to districts that require new uniforms,
be better to produce less trauma in the School — another reference that includ- Lynn-Callo said he pushed for a vote signs or other changes after dropping
world if we can so easily avoid it?” ed an Indian head before last year. last September, contending it “was an their offensive monikers. Last year, that
The district’s board voted to remove Since then, the tribe has literally spo- easy step and that we could then move included more than $215,000 to tran-
arrowheads and all other images of ken. A joint resolution from 12 tribes of to working on transforming more chal- sition from the Redskins to Red Wolves
Native Americans from its murals, logos the United Tribes of Michigan called for lenging inequities within the district.” in Paw Paw.
and sports memorabilia in 2011 after an end to Native American nicknames Other board members, howev- What about the ‘Big Reds’ in Lansing?
local residents — and advocacy groups and mascots in 2017. The Michigan er, seemed more comfortable with a Without a formal announcement
nationwide — began to call for an end Department of Civil Rights also called six-month review process. Hood also or much fanfare, the Lansing School
to culturally misappropriated mascots. for their continued use to be federally warned the board not to lose sight of the District quietly phased out American
As what many have been described as prohibited in 2013. “positive historic parts” of the name- Indian imagery at J.W. Sexton High
a middle ground amid a divisive issue “A growing and unrebutted body of sake. School last January, swapping out an
at the time, district officials then opt- evidence now establishes that the use “Nobody was hesitant or against image of a Native American head for a
ed to leave the “Chiefs” and “Chieftains” of American Indian imagery reinforc- starting the renaming process, but I large block-letter “S.” A district spokes-
namesake in place while replacing the es stereotypes in a way that negatively think it was really important to make man said the “Big Reds” mascot is a
Native American imagery with a large impacts the potential for achievement sure the community understands and “tribute to history” rather than as an
white “O.” The old logos have since been by students with American Indian is involved in the process,” said School abbreviation for “Redskins.”
phased out. ancestry,” according to data from the Board President Dean Bolton. “I would Board of Education President
And as more sports teams and school Department of Civil Rights. say that we’re all very willing to address Gabrielle Lawrence — the only board
districts deviate from Indian nick- Several dozen Okemos students and this issue.” member to respond to City Pulse this
names, including offensive terms like alumni also penned a letter to Okemos’ Okemos was settled in 1833 by a white week — said that all other images have
“Redskins,” a growing voice in Okemos school board last summer, calling to man named Sanford Marsh. The name since been phased out, noting the dis-
is calling for more changes. end “decades of relentless mockery, bas- was formally adopted in 1859 when it trict “remains dedicated to evolving and
“This naturally came up again in terms tardization and cultural appropriation changed from Hamilton to Okemos, celebrating the incredibly diverse popu-
of looking at what we do through an of Indigenous identities,” among other a tribute to John Okemos, a chief of lation that we serve.”
equity lens,” explained Superintendent issues involving racial inequities. the Saginaw Chippewa in the Ojibwa “Unfortunately, there isn’t much we
John Hood. “It’s not really a shock to In response, Hood called together nation who frequently traded business can do to scrub old images from the
us that this came up, It aligns with the a community advisory committee of with white settlers in Hamilton and internet,” she added.
national temperature on racial justice teachers, students, alumni and other died in 1858, according to research A large sign still posted near the
and equity. Over the last summer, that groups to explore whether additional from Michigan State University. entrance to the high school features an
really ramped up everywhere — includ- changes were necessary. Hood expects Among the problems: More than half arrowhead design. Two large Indian
ing on this issue in Okemos. It became that committee to craft a formal recom- of the student population in Okemos is head banners were also visible from the
important to revisit this.” mendation for a board vote on the issue white. The district also has such a small back windows of the building last week.
Many holdouts have since defended in early May. number of American Indian students Lawrence didn’t respond to additional
Indian names on the basis of main- “It’s important to ask whether our this year that it doesn’t even register questions, including on whether she or
taining local traditions or recognizing current actions create, ignore or wors- as a single percentage point in data the board of education has any interest
regional history. Others, like the Central en existing disparities or produce unin- tracked by the Michigan Department of in dropping the “Big Reds” name alto-
Michigan University Chippewas, retain tended outcomes with historically mar- Education. gether. The topic doesn’t appear to have
Native American identities with the ginalized populations,” Hood said. “We The board must now ask itself: Is the surfaced at any board meetings in at
endorsement of local Indian tribes. also knew this was going to be a very mascot truly serving its purpose as a least the last year, records showed.
More frequently, however, school dis- emotional issue to maintain the name or cultural tribute? — KYLE KAMINSKIYou can also read
