GROUNDCOVER NEWS AND SOLUTIONS FROM THE GROUND UP FEBRUARY 2019 VOLUME 10 ISSUE 2 Your donation directly benefits the vendors. INSIDE Please buy only from badged$2 vendors. Groundcover 2 transforms lives

Letters to the Editor 2

Valentine of wonder 3 and discovery

Malik Hall, high 4 achiever

Trespass order 4 reform

HCV Eviction 6 Prevention Program

Black History Month 7

Cannabis 8 legalization

Rising out of 8 depression

Puzzles 9

Irish for a day 10

10 local adventures 11 for under $10

Free music concerts 11 in town Vendor Week Wheatberry Waldorf 12 2019 salad p. 5

www.GroundcoverNews.org 2 Groundcover News Groundcover News 3 February 2019 – Vol. 10, Issue 2 OPINION LOOKING WITHIN February 2019 – Vol. 10, Issue 2 Selling Groundcover News is work that transforms lives and working norms A valentine of wonder and discovery being sober and polite. We wear badges for an article running in the February He connects with his customers and them together with red on the bottom, cemetery of what had been a small illuminated medieval manuscripts, but pink in the middle and white on top, I women’s religious community in the they lacked the proof for this hunch. that identify us, and we have permits to issue of the Ann Arbor Observer. They becomes friends with them. He experi- by Rev Dr. by Susan Beckett sell. reminded me why this project of ours is ences success when he makes a differ- Martha Brunell only apply the glue to the middle fold Middle Ages. Beyond the graves and a And so the dominant image of male line and carefully align the fold lines few foundation stones, there was almost medieval monks as scribes has almost Publisher so important. It has taken on a life of its ence in their lives, even if it costs him We have a support system with a sales Groundcover on top of one another. That way when no trace that this group of women ever universally persisted until now. own and transcended our initial goals. money. He shared this story: Contributor manager and workshops to hone our Customers rely on our vendors for the glue dries, one can fold each heart existed. skills. We also have a valuable product Recently, I responded to a pick-up re- upward in half and see what is written For me there is always profound good conversation and connection, as well quest at Metro Airport. Instead of being While examining tartar on teeth found news when we learn something new. that gives a voice to people experiencing as the paper. Not only is it saving and on the heart beneath it. Selling Groundcover News is legitimate homelessness and provides insight for the in the terminal, the woman was in the in the burial ground, they discovered an It is a day of wonder and joy when we work – that is what our vendors want changing lives, it is changing the way parking lot with her car that wouldn’t When I was in elementary school in the On the small white heart I have written unknown woman’s upper teeth flecked find the thread of a forgotten story, community on this and other issues. It people do business. There are at least late 1950s and early 1960s, one of the the world to know. They want it so also provides an entry point for con- start. She needed to get to west Detroit. a short message from Buddhist priest with blue. Upon further analysis they correct misconceptions, and include a badly that they asked us to concentrate three businesses started by Ground- At first, I was annoyed, thinking I was delights of midwinter was Valentine’s and peace activist Thich Nhat Hanh. determined the tiny blue fragments broader range of people in our telling versation and relationship between us cover vendors that hold dual purposes: Day. Around the first of the month, all the effort we put into celebrating In- and our customers. It provides a steady losing so much time, wouldn’t get back He invites us all to publish, proclaim were lapis lazuli, a rare blue stone that of who we are and where we have come ternational Vendor Appreciation Week serving people’s most basic needs and until 4 a.m. and would make no money we made a large valentine mailbox. It and protect good news, the special edi- would have been carried on medi- from. income with time and effort, and we making money. was a good-sized box decorated in red, into getting that message out. change lives for the better. on this run. Then I remembered that she tions we glimpse and hear about in our eval trade routes from Afghanistan was a person, maybe she had children pink, and white with plenty of hearts. lives and communities every day. It is to this remote site in Germany. Lapis Good news and words of wonder foster Here’s how vendor Lit Kurtz expresses By serving people’s most basic needs, For several weeks before the holiday, connections, enlarge understanding, For vendor Zhandra S., it is the second I mean connecting with others and she had to get to and that I had the op- a counterpoint to the big news in print lazuli was ground then into powder it: job that develops her skills, enhances portunity to help her in a time of need. students brought dime store valentines and on the air shouting about what is to form one of the most expensive and break open the boundaries of the contributing to them. Nearly all of you or maybe homemade ones addressed to Groundcover vendors are independent her self-image and will allow her to wrong. pigments used in the great illustrated possible. Together with Thich Nhat are familiar with Boober Tours, the their classmates. Every day more and contractors – micro-borrowers – spon- escape from minimum-wage jobs and This inspires me. You know that old manuscripts of the era. In all likelihood, Hahn and Diane Ackerman, I send pedicab business started by Ground- more valentines were stuffed into the sored by a legitimate business with its develop a career: story about the person on the beach Next, carefully fold up the white heart. contemporary scientific researchers had you this imaginary valentine. Make cover vendor Kevin Spangler. He drew box. own rules and regulations. If you don’t throwing stranded starfish back into the Underneath on the pink heart is author stumbled upon the teeth of a woman February 14 a day to be a messenger of Today if selling Groundcover News his business model – giving away free ocean? Someone says, “You know you Diane Ackerman’s commitment to be “a wonder passing on widely your editions follow the rules, you don’t get to sell wasn’t a possibility, I’d do my other job rides, talking with customers and work- By February 14, the valentine box who was one of these most talented Groundcover. We go through an orienta- can’t make a difference. There are too messenger of wonder.” artists in medieval Europe. Very few of good news. at the restaurant (and NOT the panhan- ing for tips, advertising for businesses, many of them.” And the good Samari- resembled the mailbox at a busy post tion process to familiarize us with local dling on corners where is legal) because employing others with fragile life office just before pickup. It was difficult When you are ready, fold up the pink were allowed to paint with gold, silver ordinances and Groundcover’s addition- tan replies, “It makes a difference to this or lapis lazuli. Over I can’t help but feel that it’s my respon- circumstances – from what he learned one and this one and this one,” as each to jam even one more piece of mail into heart around the white, to find the red al guidelines, such as staying one-and- sibility, now that I have recovered from at Groundcover. the slot. At our class party, the box was heart’s wondrous good news story I am time, lapis lazuli a-half blocks away from other vendors, flops back into the water. I am seeing embedded in her addiction, to be a productive member our starfish become Samaritans. broken open, and different students spreading this season. of society, and to give back in whatever Hailu, who many of you see around served as letter carriers to distribute tartar as she licked GROUNDCOVER ways I’m qualified or competent to give the Farmer’s Market and People’s Food I’ve realized that not only is selling valentines to everyone. There was a pile As a college student decades ago, before her brush to give it back. Co-op, has started a transportation Groundcover News legitimate work of mail for each one. I sensed a nudge to go to seminary, a sharp point and MISSION: business, as well as one hosting Airbnb where people develop translatable skills I was a serious history major. I still edge for painting. I had the privilege of interviewing a units. He, too, brought his service- and opportunities, it is building and Consider this column my 2019 valen- move through the world with a love for Creating opportunity and a few of our vendors to get background oriented mindset to his new businesses. tine to all of you. I want you to imagine historical details and questions. So my Some scholars have voice for low-income people transforming our community. that I have made a large red heart, a valentine story is a wondrous one that long suspected while taking action to end medium-sized pink heart, and a smaller is long on history. It recently made a big women played a homelessness and poverty. significant role in LETTERs to the EDITOR white heart out of construction pa- splash in the official news, but it needs per. Red, pink and white paper have the rich artistry of Susan Beckett, Publisher to be told and retold. [email protected] been folded in half before I cut out the Kudos on Equity in fruits, diverse vegetables, legumes, fered is neither low-cost nor healthy! hearts, so there is a distinct fold in the In an obscure location in Germany Andrew Nixon, Editor whole grains, seeds and nuts. I would call your recipe a heart attack middle of the three hearts. When I glue some researchers were working in the article waiting to happen. The article Will Shakespeare wrote Also, I am deeply concerned about the Office effects that an animal-based diet has For further information, and bet- Contributors on the Washtenaw County Equity Volunteers upon worldwide emissions of green- ter recipes, I would recommend the Elizabeth Bauman Initiative is excellent. It’s very inter- Peter Beyer house gases, not to mention cruelty to books “The Prevention and Cure of Martha Brunell esting, exceptionally well-written and Kolin Biggs animals and inequity in the distribu- Heart Disease” by Caldwell B. Es- Selena Grover thoroughly researched. Great work! Ben Eldridge tion of foodstuffs, especially protein, selstyn Jr., “Forks over Knives – The Elizabeth “Lit” Kurtz Katie Eldridge amongst the world’s people. Cookbook” by Del Sroufe and Isa Will Shakespeare Peggy Lynch Glenn Gates Chandra Moskowitz, and “Becoming Kevin Spangler Jon Obesity, diabetes, heart disease and Vegan” by Brenda Davis and Vesanto Payton Watt MacDonagh- other diet-related diseases together Dumler Melina. Also, Frances Moore Lappe’s constitute our nation’s number-one Lucy Miller Unhealthy recipes classic, “Diet for a Small Planet,” first cause of preventable death. Sandy Schmoker opened my eyes to the connection be- I really have to object to the recipe Jan Taylor The recipe reflects none of that! It calls tween animal-based diet, disease and Payton Watt [fettuccine Alfredo] in the January for one pound of (most likely refined, world food injustice like – what – 45 Mary Wisgerhof 2019 issue of Groundcover. It does years ago?! not reflect the prevailing wisdom “white”) pasta, then one whole stick of and government advisories regarding butter (not olive oil?), 1 cup of heavy I have seen many examples of simple, healthy eating at all! And it represents cream (!), and finally, more than a cup nutritious and healthful, affordable Story or Photo Submissions: a poor investment of food dollars for of cheese. How much saturated fat and and “low-impact” dishes in Ground- [email protected] a low-income person. cholesterol is that?! And no vegetables cover previously, and greatly appreci- in fettuccini Alfredo – really?!! ate that. I’m sure most people, like Advertising: Due especially to my family history of [email protected] In the same issue, you had an article me, only get around to messaging heart disease and strokes, I am careful someone when they’re critical of to avoid refined (white, non-whole) about, among other things, the health www.groundcovernews.org disparities between low-income people something and fail to express ad- grains, sugars, saturated fats and cho- equate gratitude in the first place. facebook.com/groundcover lesterol, and to seek a diet abundant and wealthier people in Washtenaw 423 S. 4th Ave, Ann Arbor County. However, the recipe you of- Glenn Lieding 734-263-2098

www.groundcovernews.org www.groundcovernews.org Groundcover News Groundcover News 4 5 February 2019 – Vol. 10, Issue 2 COMMUNITY COMMUNITY February 2019 – Vol. 10, Issue 2 Surpassing expectations and promoting understanding – Malik’s story International Street Paper Vendor by Susan Beckett said, “Anytime I acted up (in my mom’s cultures became his next dream after he helped restore rooms in a house used eyes), she would ask me why I did that. was nominated to be a People-to-People by children unable to attend school. He Appreciation Week February 4-10 Google “Malik Hall ” and the I couldn’t just respond with “I don’t ambassador, if he could come up with went to Israel for 12 days of perspective first results are for a basketball player. know.” I had to respond with the actual the $6,800 to pay his way for the trip to sharing as part of The David Program, When you see your Groundcover You are the center and Right: The Interna- Keep looking and you’ll find an ambi- reason. This methodology made me Switzerland, Spain, France and Italy. Al- all expenses paid. News vendors during Vendor Ap- measure of their success. tional Network of tious young man from the Ann Arbor/ question everything around me and ex- though this was not a school project, he preciation Week, tell them how your They always appreciate the Street Newspapers, As an Applied Engineering and Sciences Ypsilanti border who so impressed plore the greater reasons for why things got permission to raise funds by selling life is improved by them doing their gifts and tips so many of of which Ground- major specializing in Supply Chain his Michigan State University (MSU) happen. It also helps that I have always candy at Huron High during his junior jobs. That vendor who always shows you generously bestow on cover News is a Operational Management, Hall re- member, collectively advisor for at-risk students, Betty Staf- been an inquisitive person.” and senior years. He got to know every- up by the Co-op on Wednesdays, the them; they also want your ford, that she persistently insisted that one and his perseverance ceived well-paying internships and was supports over 20,000 YMCA on Friday mornings, Espresso respect. vendors each year. we interview Malik “because his story Tekker, the phone- and so impressed his fellow able to pay for flights for a study trip Royale on Thursday mornings, the belongs in Groundcover News.” computer- repair busi- students and teachers to Pachutla, Mexico, where he worked ness Hall started in high that he was the subject of alongside neighborhood people repaint- Michigan Theater on An engaging and personable young man school as part of the a commencement speech ing an office for people with disabilities. Tuesday evenings, with a ready smile and open demeanor, Business Professionals of and the recipient of He added a computer science minor to your place of wor- Malik Hall now lives in Seattle. He is a America contest where several awards, includ- his degree, which extended his studies ship – regardless product manager for Microsoft cloud- he finished ninth in the ing the Martin Luther to include a super-senior year. For the of the weather – let based services, learning all he can about state, was one of his early King, Jr. Human Rights summer semester he went to Ann Ar- them know you ad- running a successful business, deter- entrepreneurial ven- Award, even though the bor’s sister city, Hikone, for an intensive mire their depend- mined to one day be a CEO or own his tures. Tekker developed course on Japanese, his first exposure to $1,203.90 in profits was ability and strong own business. further at MSU with the language. Determined to improve on the insufficient for that trip. work ethic. the help of a couple of life of his ancestors, Malik Hall “I’ve seen my family work in places friends. seized every opportunity and “I think my personality Hall’s travelling prepared him for a col- they don’t like, and I’ve seen my family may well become a high-tech played a huge role [in lege job as an Intercultural Aide and as Groundcover ven- struggle because of the funds they didn’t “My friends were eager CEO. getting those honors a facilitator of multi-faceted discussions dors make a point have,” Hall said, explaining his ambi- to become more tech- and awards]. People saw in the Multi-Cultural Racial Unity Ex- of encountering you tions. nically savvy. It was a way for them me as a genuine person who was always perience, open table discussions on hot regularly and de- to learn more entrepreneurship,” Hall nice to others. Everyone in school knew topics such as police brutality and poli- veloping a relation- He attributes his success to his drive stated. tics. Malik’s volunteering extended to and open mind, always eager to learn me or knew of me. I wasn’t necessarily ship with you. It is popular, but I treated everyone with the being treasurer of the Black Engineers investing in you that something new. But he is also quick to But Tekker might not exist without the and to mentoring younger children in credit his mother – who did what she early interest in technology propelled by same respect and I aimed to be nice to grows their business. everyone I met,” Hall said. STEM subjects, a role that continues as had to so that he could access good Malik’s grandmother, who spent $474 one of Microsoft’s Detroit contacts for public schools and resources and still be on materials and asked 13-year-old Hall did find ways to travel in col- potential interns. part of the Ypsilanti community, and his Malik to build her a computer from the lege, using his profits for flights on a grandmother – who engaged him with components. one-month trip to China where he Now that I’ve gotten to know Malik technology. The full-ride scholarship at Hall, I realize what a compliment it was Success building the computer rein- concluded that, “We’re more similar MSU and their many funded enrich- than different, especially in big city to us that Betty Stafford thought his ment programs played a large role, too. forced the conviction that he could story of surpassing expectations while accomplish anything he set his mind life.” A funded spring break program took him to Oaxaca, Mexico, where he building community and understanding Explaining his eagerness to learn, Hall to. Traveling and learning about other belongs in Groundcover News. Helping marginalized populations by reducing terms of trespass orders by Will Shakespeare Linda Winkler wanted to know if health, Freedom of Information Act populations: Commissioners agreed Groundcover Vendor #258 one-year trespasses at the Ann Arbor requests, gender, race, discrimination, to send a proposal to the City Coun- District Library (AADL) and the Ann police trespass statistics, diversity, re- cil to pass an ordinance that will On January 9, the City of Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority form and the appeal process. reduce the current one-year police Arbor Human Rights Commission (AAATA) violate the city’s Public Ac- trespass to a six-month trespass for The AAHRC meeting was a signifi- (AAHRC) examined various issues commodation Act. Pfannes and Slay public facilities such as AADL and cant victory for the area’s marginalized on the general topic of human rights, were helpful in clarifying the issues the AAATA. civil rights and civil liberties. Specifi- and regulations. cally, they discussed questions of ra- Former longtime Commissioner cial profiling, harassment, trespassing, Chair Dwight Wilson and most of due process, discrimination, public the other Commissioners expressed accommodation and membership their belief that a one-year trespass requirements for the new Indepen- is punitive. Wilson stated that, in his dent Community Police Oversight opinion, a six-month trespass is more Commission. reasonable. City Council member The AAHRC commissioners invited Ali Ramlawi, also a member of the Ann Arbor Interim Police Chief commission, suggested that AADL Bob Pfannes and Senior Assistant and AAATA should not trespass City Attorney Arianne Slay for a customers for more than six months formal presentation and discussion but wanted private businesses to have of trespassing, about which a com- the option of a one-year trespass. plaint had reached the 15th Judicial Commission Chair Leslie Stanburgh District Court. During the questions guided the commission to further and answers period, Commissioner discuss related issues such as mental

www.groundcovernews.org www.groundcovernews.org Groundcover News Groundcover News 6 7 February 2019 – Vol. 10, Issue 2 AGENCY SPOTLIGHT RACIALFeature JUSTICE February 2019 – Vol. 10, Issue 2 The HCV Eviction Prevention Program: keeping people in their homes Celebrating Black History Month: origin and developments by Payton Watt amounts vary depending on family size, educate the peoples of all nations about • The Crisis in Black Education Groundcover Contributor personal situation, income and loca- black history.” (2017) tion). Themes are very important during Black • African Americans in Times of In a city as affluent as Ann Arbor, it can War (2018) Once housing was identified, the coordi- by Will History Month. Themes focus public be easy to forget that individuals and Shakespeare attention on the issues that have plagued nator worked with the family to secure In 2018, author Zora Neale families in the community are undergo- African Americans in the past as well the funds for the security deposit. The Hurston’s posthumous book, ing evictions. However, these evictions those issues that continue in the present coordinator helped the family obtain “Barracoon: The Story of The do occur, and they create an enormous day. As Woodson noted, “The intention state Emergency Relief and move-in Last Cargo,” sparked a renewed amount of stress, both for those at risk has never been to dictate or limit the interest in forced black Migra- help from Housing Access of Washtenaw and for those who have already lost A people without knowledge of their exploration of the black experience, but tion from Africa to America and County and St.Vincent DePaul. The their homes. Eviction is such a serious past history, origin, and culture is like a [instead] to bring to the public’s atten- elsewhere, inspiring this year’s family the security deposit and moved tion important developments that merit issue that we are required to ask: Who tree without roots. Black History Month theme, into their new home days before she was emphasis.” is combating this issue and what is be- – Marcus Garvey “Black Migration.” The theme for scheduled to be evicted. ing done about it? Since 1928, ASALH has proposed an- 2020 is “African Americans and the Vote,” and the theme for 2021 Other services provided by the housing Carter G. Woodson followed in the foot- nual themes for the celebration. That The Ann Arbor Housing Commission is “The Black Family: Represen- support coordinator, such as assistance steps of W.E.B. DuBois and became the year’s theme for Black History Week was (AAHC) and SOS Community Ser- tation, Identity, and Diversity.” with filing paperwork, prevent such second black person to receive a Ph.D. “Civilization: A World Achievement.” vices both play a large role in aiding dramatic emergencies. Referrals to the from Harvard. In 1915, dismayed about Each decade since then has organized Hurston’s book is based on her individuals with housing instability. annual themes around related subjects “Black Migration,” this year’s Black History Month program of those voucher-holders who the paucity of interest in black history interview with a man called The AAHC seeks to provide affordable and black culture, Woodson founded the particularly relevant to the times. The theme, was inspired by Zora Neale Hurston’s book appear at-risk are made by the AAHC. Cudjoe Kazoola Lewis, the last “Barracoon: the Story of the Last Cargo.” housing in the area, both on a tempo- AAHC’s HCV Eviction Prevention Program helps voucher recipients with paperwork, Association for the Study of Negro Life 1930s focused on significant African- survivor of the original group of rary and long-term basis. They manage landlord relations and monetary crises to prevent losing their vouchers forever. The HCV Eviction Prevention Program and History (ASNLH) – now known as American achievements. The 1940s slaves that were in the famous city-owned housing complexes and received startup funding from Religious the Association for the Study of African highlighted issues of peace, democracy transatlantic ship called Clotilda and labor. Themes in the 1950s sought administer countywide housing vouch- sion between tenants and the landlord month and was having difficulty coming Action for Affordable Housing and is American Life and History (ASALH). – the last known vessel to bring enslaved Black History Month has enriched the to raise awareness about black history. ers issued by the state. They also aim can also increase the risk of eviction. up with application fees that are some- now funded by Coordinated Funding There was very little discussion about people to the United States. In 1860, lives, culture and understanding of many the black experience in America’s history The Black Awakening of the 1960s led to to create healthy and safe communities times required. The family’s voucher was of Washtenaw County and AAHC. It Lewis was brought from the kingdom of people. Celebrating and learning about Vouchers are originally dispensed by books. In 1916, Woodson founded the greater focus on civil rights and African- for all, which they do by establishing at risk as she was running out of time to has been funded as a pilot program but Dahomey to the entry port of Mobile, diverse cultures promotes the underpin- the AAHC, and all individuals who prestigious Journal of Negro History. American contributions to history and Ala. The 32 slaves aboard the Clotilda nings of peaceful coexistence so needed meaningful partnerships with other locate housing. hopefully will continue to be funded have issues with the voucher (including culture. By the 1970s, according to built “Africatown” just three miles north in the world. nonprofits. and increased in light of the positive He rallied his colleagues at ASNLH to blackhistorymonth.gov, “the entire na- risk of termination) are then referred to The housing support coordinator con- of Mobile. results it has brought. If sufficient fund- establish “Negro History Week” in 1925. tion had come to recognize the impor- SOS is an Ypsilanti-based nonprofit that SOS. The SOS housing support coor- tacted this family immediately, given ing were available, the program would The celebration started in 1926. The tance of black history in the drama of focuses on individual and family home- dinator works with each individual or the urgency of her situation. An assess- expand to cover all at-risk HCV renters second week of February was selected the American story.” lessness and poverty alleviation. Along family to determine next steps. The ment was done within 24 hours to gain in Washtenaw County. in honor of Lincoln’s birthday (February with food banks, emergency services coordinator seeks to prevent eviction an understanding of what the barriers 12) and Frederick Douglass’s birthday In 1976, the nation’s bicentennial, the and child-development programs, they and termination of vouchers at all costs, were to locating housing. Once that was The program is having a profound (February 14). In 1976, on its 50-year celebration was expanded to a month. assist those in need with finding suit- since homelessness could result. Refer- determined, the coordinator went to impact on the lives of those at risk of anniversary, the celebration was changed President Gerald Ford urged Americans able housing, building self-sufficiency rals are usually resolved in 50 days. In work to locate a private landlord that eviction, as well as those who thought to Black History Month. to “Seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments and creating an action plan for clients’ addition, if a voucher has already been would be willing to rent to the family. A they had already lost everything with Black History Month – also known as of black Americans in every area of future. terminated, the coordinator can assist landlord was identified within a week nowhere to turn. To learn more about African-American History Month – has endeavor throughout our history.” Since with appealing the decision up to one and the coordinator was able to convince the HCV Eviction Prevention Program, On July 1, 2016, the AAHC partnered been celebrated every February in the 1976, each American president has year after the termination occurred. the landlord to lower the rent to fit the visit SOS at soscs.org, or RAAH at with SOS to create the Housing Choice United States since the 1970s (and in issued what is known as the “African amount of the family’s voucher (voucher www.raah.org/projects. Canada since 1995), and each October Voucher (HCV) Eviction Prevention The program has had immense suc- American History Month Proclamation.” in the United Kingdom, the Nether- The 1980s delved deeper into African Program. This program aims to de- cess since it began in 2016. From July lands and the Republic of Ireland. Black American history, survival, the family, crease the number of individuals who 2017 to June 2018, there were about History Month was not celebrated in religion, the American Constitution and lose their HCV – otherwise known 65 terminations, down from 100 a few the UK until 1987, then primarily in the Afro-American international con- as Section 8 – which can cover up to years before. In the current fiscal year London. Today, the UK’s celebration is nection. two-thirds of their rent. It is extremely (beginning July 2018), SOS has received observed across cities and towns. The important to diminish the number of 91 referrals from AAHC, all of which Irish celebration began informally in an Subsequent annual themes, focusing on terminations, because once a voucher is succeeded in avoiding termination – a abolitionist city that welcomed Freder- black scholarship, women, and empow- terminated, that individual or family is 100 percent success rate so far. ick Douglass in the 19th century. The erment, have included: banned for life from receiving another informal celebrations began in 2010 and • Afro-American Scholars: Leaders, one. The process and success of the program became officially recognized in 2014. Activists and Writers (1993) can be better explained through a per- • Empowering black Americans (1994) SOS and the AAHC saw the need for sonal story shared by SOS: Most nations share the same basic aim this program after recognizing that as the United States and Canada regard- • Black Women (1996) A referral was received from AAHC to ing Black History Month: to celebrate there were 100 voucher terminations • African Americans and Civil Rights: a assist a family that was being evicted the history of black people. Addition- from July 2014 to June 2015. Termina- Reprisal (1997) due to a lease violation. The family, a ally, distinguished African American tions can occur for various reasons, single mother with one child, was strug- historians such as John Hope Franklin • Legacy of African American Leader- including not completing annual paper- gling to find another place to live as of Duke University wanted the people of ship for the Present and the Future work on time, “leasing up” (not finding she had a previous eviction and owed the world to know that “Black History (1999) affordable housing within the given money to that landlord. The family is on Month has the aims of celebrating the • Celebrating Community: A Tribute to time period), not reporting income, a fixed income with the mother receiving achievements and contributions of black Black Fraternal, Social, and Civil Institu- not paying rent, or having unreported SSI income in the amount of $750 per peoples throughout the world and to tions (2006) guests in the home. Disputes and ten-

www.GroundcoverNews.orgwww.groundcovernews.com www.GroundcoverNews.orgwww.groundcovernews.com 8 Groundcover News Groundcover News 9 February 2019 – Vol. 10, Issue 2 ON MY CORNER PUZZLES February 2019 – Vol. 10, Issue 2 My reaction to recreational marijuana legalization in Michigan by Anonymous a little while later (after a few relapses regulated system of cultivation my life goals yet. It is the very reason since my first few attempts to get clean). and sales was approved by a margin of why I do not have major achievements As I was waiting for my car service to 56 percent to 44 percent. to be proud of. Now I can see so clearly be done on Dec. 6, I read about legal- As I have gotten away from it over the that I wasted all those years doing noth- ized marijuana in the newspaper. What last three years, I can’t help but to get What has always puzzled me is why ing but smoking, failing in college and do you guys think of recreational mari- shocked at how many others choose not the police did not arrest these people becoming miserable. But again, I know juana being legalized in Michigan? to get away from it at all. They want to at Hash Bash gatherings for public my story might not be like yours. use it every day and they actually do. So intoxication. It seems to me that the Personally, I don’t support the habit, I think, how did we get to this point? whole objective of these gatherings was I am aware that most people do approve but I have been on the other side of that of a big rebellion, breaking the law of the habit, especially for medical use the spectrum. I was once a supporter. Well, it all seems to have started in and inundating the streets with clouds for conditions such as Parkinson’s, I have been a user and abuser of the 1971, when John Lennon and Yoko of smoke that stank like pot. epilepsy, cancer, spinal cord injury, drug, and it did me no good. I became Ono sang “” in a concert at multiple sclerosis, HIV/AIDS, arthritis forgetful, lazy and impatient for my the in Ann Arbor. This Under Michigan’s new law, anyone over and insomnia. As a matter of fact, I may next high, even though it is supposedly concert was done with the purpose of the age of 21 is allowed to cultivate agree with pot being used for some of not addictive. I became irresponsible supporting the song’s namesake, who up to a total of 12 marijuana plants at these medical purposes. I am a big sup- in paying important bills in order to be was sentenced to almost 10 years in home, possess 2.5 ounces at any time, porter of anything that helps improve able to buy more weed, and eventually I prison for possessing two joints. A few and store up to 10 ounces in their resi- people’s quality of life. For people with became homeless. days later, the Michigan Supreme Court dence. The legal limit allowing anyone these conditions, pot may improve their overturned the convictions and let Sin- to carry 2.5 ounces equates to someone quality of life, but not for me. I relocated to Michigan in August 2014, clair out of prison. carrying approximately 250 joints. when medical marijuana was already This sounds a bit excessive to me. Who For me, one was always one too legal so long as you had a medical card Exactly a year later, in 1972, the first needs that much weed, unless they want many, but a thousand were never certifying the need for it. I thought Hash Bash was held, fueling the senti- to sell it, which is illegal? enough. It nearly destroyed me, and so about finding excuses or making up ment that had led to the concert a year I am lucky to be able to tell my story. ailments I didn’t really have in order to before. Hash Bash is a “celebration” Now I can see that every time I pointed Today, I am no longer willing to pay the GROUNDCOVER qualify for this medical card. However, where activists, along with smoking out the benefits pot had for me, they price I had to pay to rebuild my life. For I never went through the application marijuana from pipes, joints and even were nothing but excuses for me to get me, the darkness came to an end in the VENDOR CODE process. I decided, for some miraculous giant bongs, advocate to make mari- high and be less productive in life. How absence of pot, and I am happy with the While Groundcover News is a non- face value or solicit dona- reason, that it was time for me to get juana legal. And so it happened. At the could I be so self-deluded? I can accept way I rebuilt my life after I put the dope profit organization and newspaper tions by any other means. clean from drugs instead. And I did so end of 2018, a ballot measure to replace today with certainty that that was a big down. marijuana prohibition with a legal and reason why I have not fulfilled some of vendors are considered contracted • I will only sell current self-employers, we still have expecta- issues of Groundcover tions of how vendors should conduct News. My upcoming book: “Rising out of depression and going up the Royal Road” themselves while selling and repre- senting the paper. • I agree not to sell addi- When I was 16, I got a root canal. I nev- play sports anymore, and then he tional goods or products er did drugs or smoked cigarettes and told me that he was not going to let The following list is our Vendor when selling the paper or by Kevin Spangler I always thought that all those things me be in marching band anymore, Code of Conduct, which every ven- to panhandle, including Groundcover were disgusting, and I never wanted either. That was the last thing he could dor reads and signs before receiving panhandling with only Vendor #307 to do them. But I went to the dentist take away from me, so we got into a badge and papers. We request that one paper. • I will not sell Groundcover News un- • I agree to stay off private property office and when I was there, they gave an argument when he was taking me if you discover a vendor violating • I will wear and display my badge der the influence of drugs or alcohol. when selling Groundcover News. me laughing gas – nitrous oxide. It was home from work and then he started any tenets of the code, please contact when selling papers. • I understand that I am not a legal • I understand to refrain from selling the most amazing experience and I beating me. I cannot remember what us and provide as many details as I set a goal to write 111 books and two • I will only purchase the paper from employee of Groundcover News but a on public buses, federal property or felt everything turn purple and every- happened after that, but I fell out of possible. Our paper and our vendors days later a publisher from Loving Groundcover News staff and will contracted worker responsible for my stores unless there is permission from thing was vibrating and the lights were the car. It was on a Sunday, three days should be positively impacting our Healing Press called me out of the blue not sell to or buy papers from other own well-being and income. the owner. shaking. This is where I made my first before Thanksgiving, and I did not go County. and said he wanted to publish my life Groundcover News vendors, especially wrong turn in the Spaghetti Junction. to school that week. • I understand that my badge is prop- • I agree to stay at least one block story and philosophy. It is set up to be All vendors must agree to the following vendors who have been suspended or That led to me to start experimenting erty of Groundcover News and will not away from another vendor. I will also a self-help book for finding out where code of conduct: terminated. with whippets, which are metal gas I started eating everything I possibly deface it. I will present my badge when abide by the vendor corner policy. you are going wrong and to reprogram cartridges that I would use to release could. I started adding extra may- Groundcover News will be distrib- • I agree to treat all customers, staff and purchasing the papers. your brain for a better reality. nitrous oxide into a big balloon and onnaise to every sandwich, I added uted for a voluntary donation of $2, other vendors respectfully. I will not butter to everything. I would indent or the face value of the paper. “hard sell,” threaten, harass or pres- Editor’s Note: The remainder of this then inhale from the balloon. I started If you see any Groundcover News vendors not abiding by the code of conduct, spending all my money on nitrous ox- • I agree not to ask for more than sure customers, staff or other vendors article are snatches of text from the turns, you get frustrated, you keep please report the activity to: [email protected], 734-263-2098. ide. I was paying people to take me into see ROYAL ROAD, page 10 verbally or physically. first chapter of the book, which Kevin making mistakes, you don’t know why Ann Arbor, the only place is co-creating with his girlfriend, Ariel. you’re making mistakes because you close-by that I could get the are still working from old programs whippet chargers. Spaghetti Junction or beliefs in your brain, you can’t see Life is unmanageable, you are missing clearly, you can’t see ahead, your frus- Growing up, I was on your turns, it makes sense to you at the tration clouds the present and makes medication for ADD. I used time, you rationalize irrational things, life negative, you abandon any hope to play all sports in school. you never move forward, you keep or dreams for the future that you have Something happened where going in circles, you are making wrong developed because of negativity. my dad would not let me

www.groundcovernews.org www.groundcovernews.org Groundcover News Groundcover News 10 11 February 2019 – Vol. 10, Issue 2 YOU HEARD IT HERE AROUND TOWN February 2019 – Vol. 10, Issue 2 Irish for a day Exploring Washtenaw Free concerts bring the fine arts to all from their duties. On that day, the men for change diapers, do laundry and cook- 10 $10 County on the cheap by Selena Grover symphony orchestra concerts and by Elizabeth “Lit” ing and generally fulfill the traditional U-M Student Contributor full-scale opera productions. There Kurtz roles of their wives. by Elizabeth Bauman is always available seating with no Groundcover Groundcover Contributor The U-M School of Music, Theatre, required reservations. The school Vendor #159 Although like most present that day I and Dance (SMTD) holds free con- does not discriminate based on am not Irish, we all bonded over the Looking for something to do that won’t break the bank? Hoping to certs open to the public every month. race, gender or income, so all are shared gratification of women having try something new? Wanting a little something sweet or savory? 10 The variety and quality of these welcome to attend. Anywhere in history on any part of a day to relax from their routine, even for $10 hopes to introduce or reintroduce you to low cost or free programs is astonishing, ranging from the globe where women get a day off See below for a list of some free if it is “just one day” as one woman in things to do in Washtenaw County and surrounding communities. solo vocal and instrumental recit- deserves notice. I found that day quite concerts in February. Visit the U-M the crowd stated aloud to the humor- als, to early music period-instrument unexpectedly last month while selling SMTD website, smtd.umich.edu, ous understanding of all the women in and jazz ensemble performances, to my Groundcovers at St. Francis of As- attendance. Celtic-American folk band, Roane, performed for “Women’s Christmas” on Jan. 6 at St. 1. Go and see one of the movies up for an for a complete calendar of events. sisi Catholic Church. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Ann Arbor. Oscar! The Emagine Theater in Saline has bargains during the day We were treated to nice fare, including and comfortable reclining chairs. Before long, I was caught up as a partic- I shared with the women at my table I was told there was a party taking place wine and crudité. I reveled in the songs ipant in the event. By then I had learned my homeless struggle and the unique 2. Step into Argus Farm Stop Liberty for yoga U-M School of Music, Theatre & Dance in the Parish Activity Center and was played by a mostly female Irish band that the circular cakes at the center of perspective it has given me on the with Chelsea Hohn every Sunday in the greenhouse from 7-8 a.m. invited to be seated alongside other consisting of a mother, daughter, son- Select Public Performances each table all contained a replica of the world around me. The women eagerly Just bring your own mat. All levels are welcome. $5 suggested dona- women at one of the various tables, in-law and the former college friend of little baby Jesus. Like the other women agreed as I related the importance of tion. each adorned with a unique centerpiece the daughter. There was a fiddler who at my table, I held my breath, hoping the voice of the homeless women not Lunar New Year Carillon Concert: Year of the Pig whose history and purpose I would find lent just the right touch of Gaelic tradi- 3. Learn the sport of curling in Chelsea, Friday, Febru- my slice of cake would be the one con- be drowned out in the discourse of the Tuesday, February 5, 12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. out later. tion. ary 8. Join the fun – this is your chance to learn the sport and then taining the precious babe. women’s movement. (Bell Tower), 230 N Ingalls St, Ann Arbor, MI participate in a tournament on Saturday. Organized by the Chelsea 48109 The inspiration behind the gather- This Irish celebration would not have Area Chamber of Commerce; visit their website for more informa- Before they got to my section, someone By the sheer chance of my selling ing was the Rev. James Conlon, who been complete without hearing “Old tion. in my group announced that they had Groundcover News, this first Sunday Symphony Band represented one of only a smattering of Danny Boy,” which the group related found it in their slice. Similar exclama- of the year filled me with hope that 4. Get your Valentine some delicious French Friday, February 8, 8:00 p.m. men. He revealed that this day, which is they had first performed in Ireland. , 825 N University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 tions of delight dotted the room. Al- women from all backgrounds will bond at la bon macaron at 209 S. Fourth Avenue in Ann celebrated the Sunday after Christmas, After listening to their distinctive and macarons though I didn’t get the prize, there was to create a better future for our daugh- Arbor. Flavors include salted caramel, pistachio and chocolate filled originated in his birthplace of Ireland. moving rendition, it was clear to me Concert Band no doubt that I had won also, just being ters. I enjoyed the fellowship of women with chocolate buttercream. Beautiful as well as tasty. There it is called “Nollaig na mBan,” why the Irish performance we were included in such a special day. who, like me, need time – albeit it “just Monday, February 11, 8:00 p.m. Little Christmas or Women’s Christ- treated to was originally given glowing 5. Learn all about spiders on February 19 at Hill Auditorium, 825 N University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 mas, and occurs January 6 each year. It one day” – to feel more empowered to praise. the Matthaei Botanical Gardens. A professor of biol- is a day set aside for women to be free face our world. ogy from EMU will discuss her research on spiders. The program University Philharmonic Orchestra includes an opportunity to observe some specimens. Presented by Wednesday, February 20, 8:00 p.m. Going up the Royal Road Sierra Club of Huron Valley. Free. Hill Auditorium, 825 N University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 continued from page 8 turns; we rationalize irrational things a year in prison, so I prayed for a one- 2. What type of decisions have you 6. Storytime at the Art University Symphony Orchestra and University Choirs because it makes sense at the time. Our year sentence. They gave me a one-year made in your life that seemed rea- promotes art appreciation for all ages. A story in the Tuesday, February 26, 8:00 p.m. the top of my burger and fill the indent Museum lives can become so tangled we do not sentence. I ended up getting to be a chef sonable at the time, but later seemed gallery is followed by a fun, hands-on activity for young children. Hill Auditorium, 825 N with butter. I wanted to kill myself by even know how to remove ourselves after all – in prison. ridiculous? Saturday February 25 at 11:15 a.m. The museum is always free, so University Ave, Ann Arbor, eating. I was completely off the road from the labyrinth our life has become 3. How has negativity or fear ruled take time to stroll the exhibits. MI 48109 and into the gravel. because of our bad choices or wrong Experiential exercise: life reflection your behavior in the past? turns. at Pizza * * * (Excerpt from “Action Book for Co-Cre- 7. Get a hot fudge or caramel milkshake So I became friends with all the der- ating the Experience of the Road Trip,” a (Wow, that was a rough ride. Let’s reset Bob’s on State Street in Ann Arbor. [In the military], I started going to elicts in the military. I started to do and companion journal to the book) with 33 deep breaths.) school for advanced electronic comput- 8. Meet up with a friend you sell ecstasy heavily. I took a $6,000 loan and take ers and was retaining nothing because 1. What is one of the hardest things haven’t seen in a while out of Navy Credit Federal Union and them out for a coffee at a place you have not my brain was so fried. The only way I you have ever been through on your I told everyone else to get out a loan. I visited before. The choices are limitless! PUZZLE could pass the test was to take the test, was having ecstasy hotel parties “Spaghetti Junction”? SOLUTIONS memorize the answers and retake it off-base and selling to the people 9. Take a leisurely walk in your again. I would always fail, so I started to coming to the party. I ended up neighborhood. Take advantage of the have to take extra classes because I was getting raided. I had 30 pills of longer days – before long there will be early stupid. I went through the classes and ecstasy in my underwear pocket, signs of spring. was still winning best-dressed with the and I took it out to sell to the shiniest shoes. Primped and pampered, undercover narc who was my 10. Attend a free concert at I finally triple-failed the test so I could friend. the U-M School of Music, The- get out of the school and be a chef in atre & Dance. See adjacent article in I went to prison to be court-mar- the military, which was my original this issue for details. shalled and that’s when I started plan. praying. My lawyer kept telling After I triple-failed, I had nothing to me I needed to rat on people in Want to contribute to 10 for $10? Please send do in the military because I was in the case. I told him I wasn’t go- ideas for inexpensive treasures and experi- limbo between work. Sometimes when ing to. So, I chanted and prayed ences in and around our vibrant community to: we are traveling the Spaghetti Junc- that I didn’t deserve five years in [email protected] tion we will actually try to make wrong prison, and that I only deserved

www.groundcovernews.org www.groundcovernews.org 12 FOOD Wheatberry Waldorf salad Directions by Elizabeth Bauman In a small saucepan combine the water cinnamon. Drizzle dressing over 1 tablespoon sugar Groundcover Contributor and wheatberries. Cover and chill in wheatberries and stir. 1 teaspoon salt refrigerator overnight. Do not drain. 1/2 scant teaspoon ground cinnamon In a large bowl combine fruits Bring water and wheat berries to Ingredients 1 large Granny Smith apple unpeeled, and vegetables. Stir in wheatberry cored and chopped boiling and then reduce to a simmer 2½ cups water mixture, mix well. Top with nuts. 1 large firm, sweet apple of your for 30-35 minutes. Wheatberries 1 cup wheatberries, rinsed Cover and chill in refrigerator. choice, unpeeled, cored and chopped should be tender with a chewy texture. 1/3 cup olive oil 1 stalk celery, finely chopped 1/4 cup snipped fresh parsley Drain and allow to cool for a few This stores well in the refrigerator all 1/2 cup dried cranberries or cherries 1/4 cup cider vinegar minutes. 3/4 cup seedless grapes, halved week for a quick, healthy, make-ahead 1/4 cup apple juice or apple cider 1/2 cup honey roasted peanuts In a screw-top jar combine oil, parsley, lunch. vinegar, apple juice, sugar, salt and Serves 4.

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