CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF COMMUNITY IMPACT, JOURNALISM, CULTURE & CONNECTION
For four decades, The Chronicle News has documented our stories, amplified our voices, celebrated our triumphs, and preserved our history.
What began in 1986 as a community newspaper has grown into a multimedia platform dedicated to informing, inspiring, and empowering generations throughout Michigan and beyond.
Tonight, we celebrate the people, partnerships, and purpose that made this journey possible.
BY J. ISSAC BENJAMIN
Before hashtags, before podcasts, before algorithms curated the news, there was The Black Press.
Born from resistance and rooted in truth, the Black press has always been more than just ink on paper. It represented survival. It embodied defiance. It was liberation on every page.
In 1827, Freedom’s Journal, the first African American-owned and operated newspaper in the United States, declared boldly:
“We wish to plead our own cause. Too long have others spoken for us."
That declaration echoed through generations. It sparked a chain reaction across the country—from The North Star, founded by Frederick Douglass, to The Chicago Defender, which gave voice to the Great Migration, to The Pittsburgh Courier and California Eagle, chronicling both the pain and power of Black America.
These weren’t just newspapers—they were lifelines. They told the truth when white-owned media wouldn’t. They covered lynchings, protests, elections, and Sunday sermons with equal care. They named our dead. They honored our leaders. They told our stories when nobody else would dare.
The Chronicle Newspaper Joins the Lineage
In May 1986, my parents, Larry “Jay Price” Carter and Carolyn Carter, picked up that baton and founded The Chronicle News right here in Lansing. With a typewriter and an unstoppable vision, they carved out a space where our community could see itself reflected with pride and complexity.
It wasn’t just about headlines. It was about heritage.
BY YANICE Y. CARTER
Forty years ago, my parents, Carolyn Carter and Larry "Jay Price" Carter, launched a newspaper with a simple but powerful belief: our community deserved to see itself reflected with dignity, accuracy, and pride. What began in 1986 as The Lansing Editorial, renamed to The Captial Chronicle, and now The Chronicle Newspaper became much more than a publication. It became a trusted voice, a historical record, a community gathering place, and a platform where local stories mattered. Through changing times, changing technology, and changing generations, The Chronicle remained committed to one mission: connecting communities one story at a time.
every issue we publish, every story we tell, and every community partnership we build. Their legacy continues to guide us forward.
Today, The Chronicle has evolved beyond a newspaper into a multimedia community network that includes digital publishing, podcasting, author development, youth programming, community storytelling initiatives, and educational partnerships. Through The Sunday Chronicle Podcast, Chronicle Publishing Co., Chronicle Kids, Lansing Community Catalyst, One Day Film Skool, and our expanding community collaborations, we are continuing the work they began while preparing for the future.
As a child, I grew up around the newspaper. I watched stories come together, deadlines approach, and community leaders walk through our doors. I learned that journalism is about more than reporting the news. It is about preserving history, amplifying voices, and creating a permanent record of the people and moments that shape our lives.
Over the past four decades, The Chronicle has celebrated achievements, documented challenges, highlighted local businesses, supported nonprofit organizations, and shared stories that may otherwise have gone untold. We have laughed together, mourned together, advocated together, and celebrated together. Through it all, this community has been the heart of everything we do.
This anniversary is especially meaningful because it comes after the loss of both of our founders. While Carolyn and Jay are no longer with us physically, their vision remains alive in
This special edition is both a celebration and a thank you. Thank you to our readers who have welcomed The Chronicle into your homes for four decades. Thank you to our advertisers, sponsors, partners, and supporters who understand the value of community journalism. Thank you to the volunteers, contributors, photographers, writers, and team members who help make this work possible. Most importantly, thank you to the community. This newspaper has never belonged to one person or one family alone. It belongs to all of us.
As we celebrate forty years of service, we also look ahead with excitement and purpose. There are still stories to tell, voices to uplift, and communities to connect. Forty years later, the story continues.
With gratitude, Yanice Yvette. Carter Publisher, The Chronicle News Executive Director, Lansing Community Catalyst Corp.
When guests gather to celebrate 40 years of The Chronicle News, they will be welcomed by more than inspiring stories, community leaders, and unforgettable moments. They will also experience a carefully curated soundtrack provided by one of Mid-Michigan’s most recognizable cultural ambassadors, Metro Melik.
Known throughout the region as a DJ, media personality, entrepreneur, photographer, videographer, radio host, and community connector, Metro Melik has spent decades using his talents to bring people together through music, storytelling, and shared experiences. His work spans radio, television, live events, community initiatives, and creative entrepreneurship, making him a familiar and respected figure throughout the 517 area.
For The Chronicle News 40th Anniversary Legacy Gala, Metro Melik will serve as the evening’s official DJ, creating an atmosphere that reflects the spirit of the celebration. From the Community Marketplace Experience and networking reception to the evening program and Afterglow Celebra-
tion, his music selections will help guide guests through an experience that blends elegance, nostalgia, culture, and celebration.
“Music tells stories just like journalism does,” said Publisher Yanice Carter. “Metro Melik understands how to create moments that bring people together, which makes him a perfect fit for this celebration of legacy and community.”
Beyond his work behind the turntables, Metro Melik is widely recognized for his commitment to highlighting the
positive stories, businesses, and people that make Mid-Michigan unique. He is the founder of Lansing Made and a driving force behind 517 Day, initiatives designed to promote local pride, support local businesses, and celebrate the culture of the Capital Region.
Most recently, Metro Melik was honored as one of the inaugural inductees into the Lansing Community College Changemakers Center, recognizing individuals whose contributions have helped shape Greater Lansing and inspire future generations.
As The Chronicle News celebrates four decades of documenting history, amplifying voices, and connecting communities, Metro Melik’s presence adds another layer of creativity and cultural significance to the evening. After all, every great story deserves a great soundtrack.
The Chronicle News 40th Anniversary Legacy Gala, Life, Love & Legacy, will take place on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at the Michigan Room inside Lansing Community College.
Guests will enjoy:
4 Dinner and fellowship
4 Live entertainment
4 Community awards and recognitions
4 Special tributes and presentations
4 Vendor marketplace
4 Networking opportunities
4 The Community Afterglow Celebration featuring
For nearly two decades, Tamilikia Foster has dedicated her life to caring for others, both inside and outside the hospital. As a registered nurse in the Labor & Delivery department at McLaren Greater Lansing, Foster has helped countless families welcome new life into the world while providing compassionate care, education, and support during some of life's most important moments. Her commitment to patients and fam-
ilies earned her the prestigious DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, a national recognition honoring nurses who go above and beyond in service to others. Beyond her work in healthcare, Foster is known throughout the community for her generosity, leadership, and dedication to outreach efforts that uplift others. Colleagues and patients alike describe her as a caring advocate who leads with compassion, kindness, and faith.
At The Chronicle News 40th Anniversary Legacy Gala, Foster will serve as the evening's emcee, helping guide guests through a celebration honoring four decades of journalism, storytelling, and community impact. Her commitment to service reflects the very values that have sustained The Chronicle for 40 years: compassion, community, and a belief that every person deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.
TAMILIKIA FOSTER EMCEE
JUDGE WANDA STOKES KEYNOTE SPEAKER
WELCOME RECEPTION & VENDOR MARKETPLACE
4:00 PM – 5:15 PM
4Networking
440Dubb Podcast Interviews
4Photography
4Live Painting
4Face Painting
4Community Fellowship
DINNER & FELLOWSHIP
5:15 PM – 6:00 PM
Buffet Dinner Service
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
4Emcee
4Tamilikia Foster
4Welcome
4Chatum Taylor
4Publisher Welcome
4Yanice Carter
4Invocation Missionary Tonya Walker Community Welcome Sponsor Recognition
Presented by Tamilikia Foster 430 Within 30 Recognition
4Chronicle Legacy Tribute 4Honoring the Founders 4Larry “Jay Price” Carter 4Carolyn Carter
FEATURED PRESENTATION
Through the Eyes of Mamie Till-Mobley
Introduced by Tamilikia Foster Featuring
Dr. Maxine Hankins-Cain
Vera Riley Sera’Renee
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Judge Wanda Stokes Introduced by Keyana Pugh
CHRONICLE KIDS
Presented by Yanice Carter Introduced by Tamilikia Foster I KNOW I CAN Community Coloring Book
FEATURED PERFORMANCES
Dazzling Diamonds
Bonita Mitchell
Kentrial Nattee “A Change Is Gonna Come”
Saturday, June 6, 2026
Lansing Community College
• Michigan Room
Reception Begins at 4:00 PM
• Dinner at 5:15 PM
• Formal Program at 6:00 PM
DR. MAXINE HANKINS-CAIN FEATURED PRESENTER
SPECIAL FEATURES
Introduced by Tamilikia Foster VIP Tea Demonstration
Featuring: Elyse Ribbons
Live Art Installation
40Dubb Podcast Interview Station
CLOSING REFLECTIONS
Yanice Carter
AFTERGLOW RECEPTION
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Desserts
Vendor Marketplace
Photography
Networking Community Fellowship
For decades, Judge Wanda M. Stokes has been a respected leader, advocate, and trailblazer whose work has helped shape communities throughout Mid-Michigan. Her distinguished career in law, public service, and community leadership has earned her recognition as one of the region’s most influential voices for justice, equity, and opportunity.
Throughout her career, Judge Stokes has broken barriers while serving with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to public service. Her work has extended beyond the courtroom through mentorship, civic engagement, youth advocacy, and support for numerous community initiatives designed to strengthen families and create pathways for future generations.
A champion for education, leadership, and community empowerment, Judge Stokes has consistently used her platform to inspire others to lead with purpose and serve with excellence. Her dedication to uplifting others has made a lasting impact on countless individuals throughout the region.
In recognition of her extraordinary contributions,
The Dazzling Diamondz are more than a dance team. They are a youth leadership and empowerment program dedicated to building confidence, discipline, teamwork, and community pride through the performing arts.
Under the leadership of Dominique Devereaux and DreamWorld Studio of the Arts, the Dazzling Diamondz provide young performers with opportunities to develop their talents while learning valuable life skills that extend far beyond the stage. Through dance, mentorship, community service, and leadership development, participants are encouraged to excel both as performers and as young leaders.
Known throughout the Lansing area for their energetic performances and positive community presence, the Dazzling Diamondz have appeared at fes-
tivals, community celebrations, youth events, and service projects. Their commitment to giving back reflects the values instilled by their leadership team, which emphasizes excellence, character, and service.
Few individuals have dedicated as much of their lives to education, leadership, and community service as Dr. Maxine Hankins-Cain.
Born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia, Dr. Hankins-Cain built a distinguished career spanning more than four decades in education. Throughout her professional journey, she served as a classroom teacher, academic coach, principal, Director of Elementary Education, and Superintendent of Sankofa Shule Public School Academy, helping shape the lives of countless students and families. (jtc.courts.mi.gov)
A nationally recognized speaker, storyteller, and workshop presenter, Dr. Hankins-Cain has inspired audiences across the country through her work in education, cultural preservation, leadership development, and community
engagement. Her many honors include the Sojourner Truth Award, the Whitney Young Award, and the National Storyteller Jackie Terrance Award, reflecting a lifetime commitment to service and empowerment.
For more than two decades, Bonita Mitchell has used music as a tool for inspiration, healing, and transformation. As the founder and Executive Director of Thread of Hope Records, Mitchell has dedicated her life to helping young people discover their gifts, develop confidence, and find purpose through creative expression.
A recording artist, author, mentor, and community leader, Mitchell has built a reputation for empowering others through faith-based music and youth development programming. Her work has impacted countless young people throughout Michigan, providing opportunities for artistic growth, leadership development, and personal success.
One of those young people is Kentrial Nattee, who has been part of the Thread of Hope Records family for the past ten years. Through Mitchell’s
mentorship and encouragement, Kentrial has developed both his vocal talents and confidence as a performer.
At The Chronicle News 40th Anniversary Legacy Gala, Kentrial will perform the timeless civil rights anthem, A Change Is Gonna Come, originally made famous by
For entrepreneur Kubwa M. Brown, success has always been about thinking big. Fittingly, the name of his company, Kubwa, comes from the Swahili word meaning “big.” Kubwa was founded with a simple mission: to provide natural body products with exceptional quality and memorable fragrances at prices that remain affordable for everyday consumers. In a marketplace often dominated by expensive brands and products containing harsh chemicals, Brown wanted to create something different, products that are both accessible and thoughtfully crafted.
One of the things he is most proud of is his signature fragrance oil, a product whose roots trace back to his high school years. Long before launching his business, Brown dreamed of creating a brand of his own. That dream eventually became reality through Kubwa, allowing him to share a fragrance that has been years in the making. “I hope people enjoy, appreciate, and love my products,” Brown says. “I want people to ask, ‘What’s that fragrance you’re wearing?’ and for customers to proudly tell them it’s Kubwa.”
For Deborah Allen, beauty is about much more than makeup. It is about confidence, self-love, and helping women recognize their value at every stage of life. As Founder and CEO of Spotlight Lipstick, Allen has built a beauty brand specifically designed for mature women. Through lip products, skincare, education, and encouragement, Spotlight Lipstick helps women over 40 embrace their beauty, confidence, and wisdom with pride.
The inspiration behind the business comes from the strong women who shaped Allen’s life. Raised by confident women who taught her that true beauty comes from within, she noticed that mature women were often overlooked by the beauty industry. Rather than accept that reality, she decided to create a brand that celebrated them. “Beauty is ageless,” Allen says. “Our mission is to help women embrace confidence and beauty at every stage.”
There are families. And then there are institutions disguised as families.
The Lucas-Perry family is one of those rare examples where love did not simply endure, it multiplied. Into purpose. Into profession. Into leadership. Into impact. At the center of that legacy stand Lavel and Dr. Patricia Lucas-Perry, whose 43-year marriage became the foundation for something far greater than professional success. Together, they built a family culture rooted in excellence, discipline, education, service, and faith.
From that union came five remarkable children:
• Dr. Victoria Lucas-Perry, DDS
• Dr. Evelyn Cheek, DDS, MPH
• Dr. Patrick Lucas-Perry, DDS
• Lavel Lucas-Perry, RDH
• Crystal Lucas-Perry, actress, educator, therapist, and creative leader
Beyond creating quality products, Brown sees his work as part of something larger. To him, community is made up of the people who help make neighborhoods, cities, and towns stronger every day through hard work, perseverance, and determination. “Community is the heart and soul of the town,” he explains. “It’s the people who keep moving forward despite life’s challenges.”
Beyond beauty products, Spotlight Lipstick serves the community by empowering women through education, confidence-building initiatives, networking opportunities, and community events. The company also supports charitable efforts that benefit women in need.
One of Allen’s proudest accomplishments is the Spotlight Society Podcast, a platform dedicated to celebrating the stories, experiences, wisdom, and resilience of mature women. Through meaningful conversations and shared
Inspired by the example of their mother, Dr. Patricia Lucas-Perry, four of the family’s five children pursued careers in dentistry and healthcare. Today, members of the Lucas-Perry family collectively help lead and operate more than a dozen dental practices throughout Michigan, providing care to thousands of patients while continuing a tradition of service that spans generations. But the Lucas-Perry story is about
Whether through song, service, or entrepreneurship, Vera Riley has dedicated herself to helping others feel seen, inspired, and empowered. Known throughout Michigan for her soulful vocals and heartfelt performances, Riley uses music as a tool for healing, encouragement, and connection. Blending faith, storytelling, and life experience, her performances resonate deeply with audiences and leave a lasting impact.
At The Chronicle News 40th Anniversary Legacy Gala, Riley will lend her powerful voice to one of the evening's most moving presentations, Through the Eyes of Mamie Till-Mobley: A Living Portrait. The tribute will feature Dr. Maxine Hankins-Cain portraying Mamie Till-Mobley, accompanied by live vocals from Riley and a live painting experience by artist Sera'Renee. The presentation honors
the courage, resilience, and enduring legacy of Mamie Till-Mobley, whose advocacy helped change the course of American history following the tragic murder of her son, Emmett Till.
Beyond the stage, Riley is also a JAFRA VIP Team Leader and Beauty & Skincare
BY YANICE Y. CARTER
Born and raised in East Lansing, Michigan, Alfred Laurence has always been deeply connected to his community. Eight years ago, he discovered a passion for photography that has since become the driving force of his creative life. Starting with a simple Samsung digital camera, Alfred captured the world around him with a fresh and compelling perspective. However, a home break-in resulted in the loss of his first camera, nearly derailing his budding photography journey.
But the story didn’t end there. Two photographers, one from Atlanta and the other from Chicago, took notice of Alfred's talent. Their encouragement
Whether through song, service, or entrepreneurship, Vera Riley has dedicated herself to helping others feel seen, inspired, and empowered. Known throughout Michigan for her soulful vocals and heartfelt performances, Riley uses music as a tool for healing, encouragement, and connection. Blending faith, storytelling, and life experience, her performances resonate deeply with audiences and leave a lasting impact.
At The Chronicle News 40th Anniversary Legacy Gala, Riley will lend her powerful voice to one of the evening's most moving presentations, Through the Eyes of Mamie Till-Mobley: A Living Portrait. The tribute will feature Dr. Maxine Hankins-Cain portraying Mamie Till-Mobley, accompanied by live vocals from Riley and
and support led to the launch of a GoFundMe campaign that allowed him to purchase his first professional camera. With their
As The Chronicle News celebrates 40 years of community impact, culture, and connection, guests attending the VIP Experience will have the opportunity to enjoy a special tea service presented by Elyse Ribbons of Chengdu Teahouse. Known for her passion for tea education and cultural exchange, Ribbons has spent years introducing people to the rich traditions, history, and community-building power of tea. Through her work, she creates experiences that encourage conversation, learning, and meaningful connection.
At the Chronicle News 40th Anniversary Legacy Gala, VIP guests will enjoy a curated tea experience designed to complement an evening dedicated to honoring the past, celebrating the present, and building the future.
Tea has long served as a symbol of hospitality, reflection, and fellow-
a live painting experience by artist Sera'Renee. The presentation honors the courage, resilience, and enduring legacy of Mamie Till-Mobley, whose advocacy helped change the course of American history fol-
ship across cultures. Those same values have helped sustain The Chronicle News for four decades through the support of readers, partners, and community members who continue to believe in the power of storytelling.
“We are excited to share this unique experience
The Chronicle Kids Coloring Book was made possible through the support of community leaders, families, educators, sponsors, and organizations committed to helping children see themselves reflected in stories of leadership, creativity, service, and success.
For 40 years, The Chronicle News has been sustained by readers, advertisers, sponsors, community partners, volunteers, and supporters who believe in the power of local journalism and community storytelling. This celebration, and the projects featured throughout this special edition, would not be possible without their support.
What began as a community newspaper in 1986 has evolved into a growing multimedia network dedicated to storytelling, education, youth development, publishing, and community engagement.
Today, The Chronicle continues to expand its mission through innovative programs, partnerships, and platforms designed to inform, inspire, and connect future generations.
Bringing community conversations, interviews, and local voices to listeners across the region.
For 40 years, The Chronicle has served as a trusted source of community news, information, and storytelling throughout Michigan.
Expanding our reach through online journalism, digital content, and community engagement.
Helping aspiring authors tell their stories through book publishing, author development, and literary services.
Supporting youth development, literacy, workforce readiness, education, and community engagement initiatives.
Creating positive representation through children's books, coloring books, educational activities, and youth-focused programming.
Introducing young people to filmmaking, storytelling, production, and media careers.
Providing hands-on training in journalism, podcasting, broadcasting, filmmaking, and community storytelling.
The future of The Chronicle is more than a newspaper.
It is a growing movement dedicated to preserving stories, developing leaders, inspiring young people, and connecting communities for generations to come. 1986 •
A Legacy Written Together.
Art has the power to tell stories, spark conversations, and bring people together. Few artists embody that belief more fully than Sera Renee’. A multidisciplinary artist, creative entrepreneur, and founder of Contrasted Content, Sera Renee’ has built a reputation for creating immersive artistic experiences that challenge perspectives and celebrate human connection. Her work spans painting, body art, public installations, community engagement projects, and live artistic performances that invite audiences to become part of the creative process.
Known throughout Michigan for her innovative approach to art, Sera gained national attention through her ambitious “365 Days of Face Paint” project, a year-long journey that combined artistry, storytelling, and personal reflection. Her work has been featured in galleries, community spaces, public events, and media outlets, inspiring au-
diences through creativity, vulnerability, and self-expression.
Beyond the canvas, Sera is passionate about using art as a tool for healing, education, and community building. Through workshops, exhibitions, and collaborative projects, she encourages others to explore creativity as a pathway to understanding themselves and the world around them.
At The Chronicle News 40th Anniversary Legacy Gala, Sera Renee’ will present a live painting experience during Through the Eyes of Mamie Till-Mobley: A Living Portrait. As Dr. Maxine Hankins-Cain portrays Mamie Till-Mobley and Vera Riley provides live vocals, Sera will create an original artwork inspired by the presentation, transforming a powerful moment of history into a visual
At their core, The Chronicle News and 40Dubb Podcast share a common mission: preserving stories, celebrating culture, and ensuring the voices of our community are never forgotten.
For nearly 40 years, The Chronicle News has documented the people, events, achievements, and moments that have shaped Lansing and Mid-Michigan. Through print, digital media, radio, publishing, and community engagement, The Chronicle has worked to preserve history while creating a platform for voices that might otherwise go unheard.
Likewise, 40Dubb Podcast has emerged as a powerful force in preserving Lansing’s oral history. Through conversations, interviews, and storytelling, the platform captures the memories, experiences, and cultural moments that helped shape generations of Lansing residents. What began as a conversation about growing up in Lansing has evolved into a movement dedicated to documenting community history in real time.
Recognizing their shared commitment to storytelling, The Chronicle News and 40Dubb Podcast have formed a strategic partnership designed to expand community-centered media throughout the region. The partnership will help strengthen The Chronicle’s growing multimedia presence by adding a video component to existing programming, including The Sunday Chronicle on Stacks 92.1 FM. Work-
ing together, the organizations plan to produce enhanced video content, interviews, community features, special event coverage, and storytelling projects that engage audiences across multiple platforms.
In addition to expanding video production, the partnership will support cultural preservation efforts by documenting the stories of local leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, athletes, artists, and everyday community members whose experiences deserve to be remembered and shared. Led by founders and co-hosts Ken Barnes and Matt McKinnon, along with creative contributors such as Stephen Burnett, 40Dubb Podcast has become known for bringing people together through shared memories, authentic conversations, and a
For 40 years, The Chronicle News has told the stories of our community. As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we are proud to recognize one of the local businesses that helped transform that celebration into something people can wear, carry, and remember for years to come.
Meet Nathan Gordon, the owner of Jackson Embroidery. Nate prides himself on quality service, custom designs and going above and beyond to meet the needs of the customer. Through Nate’s vision and leadership, Jackson Embroidery has been a trusted source for custom embroidery and apparel, helping businesses, organizations, schools, and community groups bring their brands and ideas to life through quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Their work reflects the belief that every stitch tells a story, a philosophy that aligns perfectly with The Chronicle’s mission of preserving community stories and legacies.
When planning The Chronicle News 40th Anniversary Legacy Gala, it was
important that every commemorative item reflected the significance of the occasion. Jackson Embroidery partnered with The Chronicle team to produce the official anniversary merchandise collection, including custom embroidered polo shirts, commemorative T-shirts, and the
exclusive 40th Anniversary tote bags that will serve as keepsakes from this historic celebration. Their craftsmanship helped transform simple merchandise into meaningful symbols of a legacy that spans four decades of journalism, community engagement, and storytelling.
The Community Catalyst was founded in 2017 by Yanice Carter with a clear mission: to create measurable, community-led change by building bridges between residents, organizations, and local leadership. What began as a grassroots effort in Lansing has evolved into a growing movement centered on collaboration, empowerment, and opportunity.
At its core, The Community Catalyst exists to help people move beyond survival mode by connecting them with the resources, education, skills, and support needed to create lasting change in their lives and communities. While we are proud to assist families facing immediate challenges, our mission extends far beyond charity. We believe true empowerment happens when people gain the knowledge, confidence, and tools necessary to build a better future for themselves and future generations.
Our work focuses on three key areas: Education & Creative DevelopmentThrough multimedia workshops, journalism training, podcasting, storytelling, author development, filmmaking, and community media programs, participants gain valuable communication, leadership, and workforce skills
Beyond apparel, Jackson Embroidery has built a reputation for helping organizations strengthen their identity through professionally embroidered garments, promotional products, and branded merchandise. Their commitment to quality and customer service has made them a valued partner for businesses and community organizations throughout the region.
As guests gather to celebrate 40 years of The Chronicle News, many will be wearing or carrying items created by Jackson Embroidery, a visible reminder that building a legacy is never done alone. It takes community partners, local businesses, and dedicated supporters working together to bring a vision to life.
The Chronicle News is grateful for Jackson Embroidery’s partnership, creativity, and craftsmanship in helping commemorate this historic milestone. Because every legacy deserves to be remembered—and every story deserves to be stitched into history.
while learning to share their own stories.
Literacy & Youth EmpowermentThrough initiatives such as Chronicle Kids, we create educational resources that allow children to see themselves reflected in stories of leadership, creativity, service, and success. What began as a coloring book project is evolving into a growing collection of workbooks, literacy activities, and learning tools designed to make education more engaging, relatable, and culturally relevant.
Community Health & Food JusticeWe work to address food insecurity through community-based solutions, nutrition education, food distributions, wellness initiatives, and partnerships that help strengthen healthier communities.
Apply for a Signature Loan Today! msufcu.org/signatureloan
Bus:
www.stacy-lewis.com stacy@stacy-lewis.com
The goal is to show readers not only where The Chronicle began, but how far it has grown over four decades.
1986 THE CHRONICLE IS FOUNDED
Larry “Jay Price” Carter and Carolyn Carter establish The Lansing Editorial, which later becomes The Capital Chronicle and ultimately The Chronicle News, creating a platform to uplift Black voices, celebrate community achievement, and preserve local history.
The Chronicle grows into one of Michigan’s longest-running Blackowned newspapers, covering community news, education, faith, business, politics, culture, and the everyday lives of families throughout Mid-Michigan.
The Chronicle continues serving the community through print journalism, advertising partnerships, local features, and community-centered storytelling while adapting to an evolving media landscape.
2015
The Chronicle expands into the digital space with the launch of its website and online platforms, making community news and stories more accessible to readers beyond the printed page.
2016
30
The Chronicle celebrates three decades of informing, inspiring, and connecting communities throughout Mid-Michigan.
2017
HOMETOWN HERO AWARDS CONTINUE
The Chronicle celebrates its 31st Anni-
versary and hosts the second annual Hometown Hero Awards, recognizing individuals making a positive impact throughout the community.
Yanice Carter establishes Lansing Community Catalyst Corp., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to education, literacy, youth development, media training, workforce development, and community engagement.
The Chronicle family mourns the passing of co-founder Carolyn Carter, whose vision, leadership, and dedication helped build one of Michigan’s longest-running Black-owned newspapers.
The Chronicle expands into broadcasting with the launch of The Sunday Chronicle podcast and radio show, creating a new platform for community conversations, interviews, and storytelling.
The Chronicle partners with Stacks 92.1 FM, bringing The Sunday Chronicle to radio audiences and expanding its multimedia reach.
The Chronicle family mourns the passing of co-founder Larry “Jay Price” Carter, a pioneering voice in Lansing radio, Black media, and community journalism.
Following her father’s passing, Yanice Carter assumes leadership as Publisher of The Chronicle News, carrying forward the vision established by Jay and Carolyn while guiding the publication into its next generation.
Chronicle Publishing Company is launched to expand the family’s storytelling legacy beyond newspapers. The imprint is committed to serving diverse and underrepresented authors, helping writers bring their stories, experiences, and creative work to print.
Yanice Carter publishes her first book, Notes from the Trail, through Chronicle Publishing Company. The book marks a new chapter in The Chronicle’s legacy, expanding its work from newspaper publishing into books, authorship, and literary storytelling.
The Chronicle enters a new era of growth, expanding its circulation, distribution network, and multimedia presence throughout Michigan.
Now printing 10,000 copies per issue, The Chronicle distributes thousands of newspapers across Greater Lansing, Jackson, Flint, Battle Creek, Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and Metro Detroit while reaching additional audiences through trade shows, community events, educational programs, digital platforms, podcasts, radio broadcasts, and strategic partnerships.
With distribution spanning dozens of ZIP codes and multiple media channels, The Chronicle continues its mission of connecting communities, amplifying underrepresented voices, preserving local history, and creating opportunities for future generations of storytellers.
2026
The Chronicle begins a collaborative partnership with WKAR Public Media to support educational, family-centered, and community storytelling initiatives.
The Chronicle partners with 40Dubb Podcast to preserve local history, amplify community voices, and share the stories that have shaped Mid-Michigan.
The Chronicle celebrates its 40th Anniversary, honoring four decades of journalism, family legacy, community leadership, and storytelling.
he Chronicle News would not be celebrating 40 years without the vision, sacrifice, leadership, and commitment of those who came before us.
This page is dedicated to the founders whose dedication, perseverance, and belief in community journalism helped create a legacy that continues to serve Mid-Michigan today.
LARRY "JAY PRICE" CARTER Co-Founder
Broadcaster. Mentor. Community Voice.
Through radio, print media, and community leadership, Jay Price dedicated his life to connecting people, supporting local businesses, and amplifying voices throughout Mid-Michigan. His passion for storytelling and service helped establish The Chronicle as a trusted community institution.
For forty years, thousands of readers, advertisers, churches, schools, businesses, volunteers, community leaders, and supporters have contributed to the story of The Chronicle.
Every issue published. Every event covered. Every story preserved.
You are part of that legacy.
As The Chronicle enters its fifth decade, its mission remains clear: Connecting Communities One Story at a Time.
What began as a community newspaper in 1986 has grown into a multimedia platform dedicated to journalism, publishing, broadcasting, education, and community empowerment. The next chapter is still being written.
CAROLYN CARTER Co-Founder
Visionary. Publisher. Community Advocate.
Carolyn Carter co-founded The Chronicle News in 1986 with a commitment to informing, uplifting, and empowering the community. Her leadership, dedication, and unwavering belief in the power of local journalism helped shape one of Michigan's longest-running Blackowned newspapers.
The Chronicle belongs to the community because the community helped build it.
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