2 $ FEBRUARY 21, 2025 | VOLUME 16 | ISSUE 5 YOUR PURCHASE BENEFITS THE VENDORS. PLEASE BUY ONLY FROM BADGED VENDORS. Hear me out: Police precincts aren't shelter. page 4 LARZELL WASHINGTON #128 ASK YOUR VENDOR: WHO WAS YOUR FIRST LOVE? GROUNDCOVER NEWS AND SOLUTIONS FROM THE GROUND UP | WASHTENAW COUNTY, MICH. All out war on information! page 6 THIS PAPER WAS BOUGHT FROM Mike Jones, Roberto Isla Caballero and Jim Clark looking at local print publications. @groundcovernews, include vendor name and vendor #
2 GROUNDCOVER NEWS GROUNDCOVER In loving memory of Paula Anderson "Paula loved ice cream and the bits of nature around the area where she lived. For a long while, when she could, she cared deeply for Fred." — Mary W. "I remember Paula for her attitude; she seemed April 12, 1957 - Feburary 7, 2025 Paula Anderson, Groundcover vendor No. 157, was one of the original members of the Groundcover family; she joined as a vendor in 2011. Small but mighty, she had a huge heart and feisty personality which contributed to her success as a street newspaper vendor. Ever since COVID-19, she would primarily sell at the end of Bethlehem United Church of Christ's Sunday services. Paula’s celebration of life is scheduled for early April. Contact Groundcover News and we will shared specific details when they are determined. "I’ll remember you always and love you always." — Fred A., Paula’s life partner. so strong. But as I know, when illnesses take over you are lucky to even go out to have a smoke and look at the squirrels. Paula loved animals as much as I did. We had competitions of who would feed the most squirrels and who the squirrels liked the best. Paula had a 'back-off' type of exterior personality, but once I saw her other side, she was funny, deeply caring, emotional and expressive like me. Even in her final days, she was so strong." — Terri D. "Paula was liked by many of her fellow vendors and office volunteers. All will be sad to hear of her passing. Her favorite spot to sell papers was in front of Running Fit. I would often see her there and will always remember that being her spot." — Glenn G. "Life was hard but you kept at it, Paula, doing your best." — Susan B. FEBRUARY 21, 2025 PROVIDING ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES FOR SELF-DETERMINED INDIVIDUALS IMPACTED BY POVERTY, PRODUCING A STREET NEWSPAPER THAT GIVES A PLATFORM TO UNDERREPRESENTED VOICES IN WASHTENAW COUNTY, PROMOTING AN ACTION TO BUILD A JUST, CARING AND INCLUSIVE SOCIETY. Groundcover News, a 501(c)(3) organization, was founded in April 2010 as a means to empower lowincome persons to make the transitions from homeless to housed, and from jobless to employed. Vendors purchase each copy of our regular editions of Groundcover News at our office for 50 cents. This money goes towards production costs. Vendors work selling the paper on the street for $2, keeping all income and tips from each sale. Street papers like Groundcover News exist in cities all over the United States, as well as in more than 40 other countries, in an effort to raise awareness of the plight of homeless people and combat the increase in poverty. Our paper is a proud member of the International Network of Street Papers. STAFF Lindsay Calka — publisher Cynthia Price — editor Michelle Lardie-Guzek — intern ISSUE CONTRIBUTORS D.A. Elizabeth Bauman Jim Clark Elka Chamberlain Bob Day Jonathan Glass Alexandra Granberg Mike Jones Ken Parks Will Shakespeare Denise Shearer PROOFREADERS Susan Beckett Elliot Cubit GROUNDCOVER NEWS ADVERTISING RATES Size 1/8 1/6 1/4 1/2 full page Black/White $110.00 $145.00 $200.00 $375.00 $650.00 Color $150.00 $200.00 $265.00 $500.00 $900.00 Dimensions (W x H in inches) 5 X 3 or 2.5 X 6.5 5 X 4 5 X 6.25 5 X 13 or 10.25 X 6.5 10.25 X 13 Zach Dortzbach Matthew Rohlman Steve Ross Dillon Schweers Anabel Sicko Allison Wei VOLUNTEERS Jane Atkins Jessi Averill Sim Bose Luiza Duarte Caetano Jacob Fallman Glenn Gates Jonathan Glass Bella Fernandez Robert Klingler Ari Ruczynski Jack Weinberg Mary Wisgerhof Max Wisgerhof Melanie Wenzel CONTACT US Story and photo submissions: submissions@groundcovernews.com Advertising and partnerships: contact@groundcovernews.com Office: 423 S. 4th Ave., Ann Arbor Mon-Sat, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Phone: 734-263-2098 @groundcover @groundcovernews DONATE, LISTEN TO OLD ISSUES + LEARN MORE www.groundcovernews.org PACKAGE PRICING Three Months/Six Issues: 15% off Six Months/Twelve Issues: 25% off Full Year/Twenty-four Issues: 35% off Only run for two weeks/one issue: 40% off Additional 20% discount for money saving coupons
FEBRUARY 21, 2025 ON MY CORNER ASK YOUR VENDOR Who was your first love? Her name was Clara. She has passed. May she rest in peace! — Larzell Washington, #128 I first fell in love with the universe, the planets. I watched them every night. — Juliano Sanchez, #174 My dog, Candy. I just loved that dog. We were both just pups. — David Mitchell, #661 Marta. In Cuba. When I was 13. — Roberto Isla Caballero, #347 Ceeny Ellen ... in kindergarten or first grade. We were freelance kids and had lots of fun together. — Ken Parks, #490 The last time I saw her was at the Heathrow airport (in London). She was studying nursing. We had great plans together, but they didn't work out. My first love was an innocent love. We eventually grew apart from physical and emotional distance, but I'll never forget this true love! — Will Shakespeare, #258 My first love broke my heart when I was 11 or 12. — Joe Woods, #103 A girl named Janice Stewart. It was puppy love; I was in grade school. — Lonnie Baker, #99 WILL SHAKESPEARE Groundcover vendor No. 258 On the lush, green, rural highlands of Jamaica’s St. Ann Parish, a prince of peace was born. Robert Nesta Marley was a gift from God. At the age of 12, he and his mother moved to Kingston’s poor neighborhood of Trench Town. At the age of 19, in 1963, he joined the reggae music group, “The Wailers.” They were hugely successful. Worldwide, the reggae band sold more than 75 million records. Marley became a global superstar adored by intergenerational fans and music lovers. Bob Marley and The Wailers composed dozens of popular hit songs. Many are GROUNDCOVER NEWS Happy 80th birthday to a global superstar, Bob Marley! sing-alongs. Do you remember these songs? They include • “No Woman No Cry” • “Get Up, Stand Up” • “Could You Be Loved” • “Is This Love” • “Sun Is Shining” • “Buffalo Soldier” • “Natural Mystic” • “Turn Your Lights Down Low” • “Waiting In Vain” • “Redemption Song” • “All in One” • “Positive Vibration” • “Lively Up Yourself” • “Trenchtown Rock” • “Stir It Up” • and of course, “One Love!” When people all over the world talk about the Greek concept of “AGAPE,” which means universal love, they also talk about Bob Marley’s most popular song, “ONE LOVE, ONE HEART … Let’s get together and it will be all right.” Bob Marley was born on February 6, 1945. He died from melanoma on May 11, 1981. He was only 36 years old! With hearts full of gratitude, love and songs, we remember Bob Nesta Marley this February and all the joy he brought to this world. Happy Valentines across the miles! February happiness and cakes. I like to go to the movies a lot. Disney cartoons are good for ValDENISE SHEARER Groundcover vendor No. 485 February is a loving month. In the month of February, we celebrate all kinds of love and we celebrate Black History Month. February is a very challenging month because it is in the winter time and my health doesn't do very good in the wintertime. I can’t get out and do things. But there are indoor activities like making cards and there are activities you can do like go to church and praise God. There are activities to do like make decorations with candy entine’s Day, too. There’s a romantic Disney movie called "Lady and the Tramp." I really like that cartoon a lot because it is cute and beautiful. I don’t know who St. Valentine is but I’d like to do more research to find out who he is, because I think he might have been a good person. February and Valentine’s Day are also very colorful. I like the colorful Cupid boys and girls, and the very pretty hearts. February is also National Heart Month. So February is the month of love and accepting everybody and having fun with your lover or friends or family. It’s also the month of my boyfriend Richard’s birthday (February 8th)! I really enjoy the month of February and will celebrate when I’m well enough. I pray to God that my health gets better so I can enjoy it. 3
4 GROUNDCOVER NEWS HOMELESSNESS voucher FEBRUARY 21, 2025 Intersection of formerly incarcerated and homeless people ELKA CHAMBERLAIN Groundcover contributor While considering the impact of the carceral system on homelessness, common, cyclical themes present themselves. Among them is the need for balancing speed — sometimes it’s important for things to be done quickly and sometimes they take a while — and the slower nature of these cycles. Particularly traumatic for formerly incarcerated people is the intersection of homelessness with aspects of the legal system. Regardless of which aspect of the legal system a person is processing through, "Jumping through hoops" the impact of being incarcerated, especially when considering other institutional gaps, results in particularly long periods of severe deprivation due to an overall decrease in “potential recovery capital” (the ability to find resources). Put more plainly, people who have been incarcerated are less likely to experience a single and brief homelessness experience and are more likely to experience a bad decade or decades. Sadly, many who earn enough to afford housing report frustration navigating intrusive rental applications, management company background checks, and credit histories. (For the purposes of this article, a person who I spoke with on this subject will be referred to as a “buddy.”) One buddy stated that you “... have to settle, and there should be a state or county fee for applications instead of paying individual fees, when you won’t qualify even with full cash in hand.” A buddy who is on a fixed income at the poverty line (in the form of Social Security) and has a Housing Choice Voucher fell victim to the following predatory application process. This buddy was told there was a $40 online application fee, only to be informed later of an additional $1.20 convenience charge for paying online, and then the final cost after the application was $46.20 — all lost when they did not get the apartment. The reason given for denial was a low credit score. Another rental company’s rental application figures do not even add up correctly. Even with vouchers, landlords may post signs that claim not to discriminate, then continue to discriminate based on not "liking to work" with specific management companies. For those able to handle the trials of the number games, experience shows that while it may be legal to represent oneself in a landlord-tenant case, judges overwhelmingly side with landlords, who appear with paid lawyers. While thus far much of the transition from homelessness has focused on renting, there are many people who have been incarcerated who have a dream of both home and business ownership. Yet part of the stepping stones still include renting while trying to build and/or rebuild. However, not everyone has the same opportunities. One formerly incarcerated buddy dreams of having a shared space to fill in community gaps. On a surface level, veterans appear to have more affordable opportunities. One buddy explained they have been struggling since being released on parole over a year ago. As a vet, they were able to claim one of the available contracted shelter beds, but they were later discharged from shelter programming for being "AWOL" from the shelter (a military term for Absent see HOUSING page 8 Hear me out: Police precincts aren't shelter BOB DAY Detroit Eviction Defense I watched some of Mayor Duggan’s press conference today on the two children who froze to death in a van yesterday [Monday, February 10] in Detroit. Duggan said that their mother, who had five children, had called the city for help on November 25. During that phone call she explained that she was homeless with five children. According to Duggan, the city took no action and did not offer her any help. The city did not consider it to be an emergency, and no one from the city ever followed up or did any checking back with her. The mother, homeless with five children, reached out for help, and the city refused to help her. Duggan and the City of Detroit government are criminals and are responsible for the deaths of these two children, ages nine and two-years-old. The mother, like many others, reached out for help to the city because she had no housing and got no assistance, got no help, got no shelter. Duggan claimed it should not have happened because there is shelter available. But people calling the city for help continue to report they are told there is no shelter available, that the shelters are full. The Housing Resource helpline, the place to call for emergency shelter, is 866-313-2520. And what was Duggan's big announcement, his big response to these children freezing to death in a van in the parking garage at the Greektown Casino? Duggan's advice for people without housing, for families without housing and in need of emergency shelter is to turn yourself into the police at a police precinct station. The police are not our friends and regularly accost and threaten people who are without housing. This is why Dan Gilbert and the Illitch family and Ford and GM and the rest brought Duggan in and continue to keep him around. Duggan's job was to beef up the police; attack and clear out Black people, poor people and the working class; and to make downtown Detroit open for rich folks and people from the suburbs to come to the arenas and sports teams. People who are homeless — people who are in crisis — do their best to avoid the police and for good reason. The police will tase you or arrest you or shoot you down. Ask the families who called 911 for help because a family member was having a mental health crisis, only to see the police arrive and open fire and kill a family member in crisis. See what the police did when the bailiff called for help to evict Sherman Butler from his apartment in Palmer Park. Sherman Butler had been in the hospital and did not know about any eviction order. He had his toes on one foot amputated while in the hospital and was trying to recover and manage to stand and get around again. The cops arrived, helped the bailiff bust in the door, and tased Sherman Butler while the 36th District Court bailiff shot him down and killed him. And the prosecutor said the murder of Sherman Butler was justified and filed no charges against the killer bailiffs or his cop accomplices. Turn yourself in to a police station? Why, so they can tase you or shoot you or arrest you? The city’s offer for help during this housing crisis — with thousands living in cars or on the streets or in vacant houses — is to turn yourself and your family in to the killer cops of Detroit. To hell with Duggan and Dan Gilbert and their damn police. We need emergency shelters for people and families without housing. The city needs to put them up in motels or open up the Coleman A. Young Center for emergency housing or open up the vacant, boarded-up units at Detroit Housing Commission complexes like Diggs or Brewster. Open up the The Renaissance Center; it's huge and mostly vacant. Children are dying, freezing to death in this city because Duggan and the City Council and the city government and the nonprofits they support are not doing their job, not doing their job at all. Children and people are dying, and all Duggan can propose is turn yourself in to the police. Do not allow this to continue. Duggan and the government are enemies of the working class and the Black community and poor people and our children. We need to take action and open up housing and emergency shelter for people who need it, now.
FEBRUARY 21, 2025 RECOVERY Home of New Vision invests in youth JONATHAN GLASS Groundcover contributor Home of New Vision, serving Washtenaw and Jackson counties, is spearheading an initiative to create growth opportunities for Ypsilanti Township’s youth while reducing the risk of substance use. HNV is dedicated to empowering the next generation to embrace a brighter future. Robert Colley, Program Manager for the Washtenaw Recovery Advocacy Project, emphasized the program’s mission. “Our goal is to inspire and equip young people with the tools they need to lead healthy, successful lives. By fostering leadership, building life skills, and promoting community engagement, we aim to support the next generation in reaching their full potential,” Colley said. The youth initiative incorporates several key strategies, including weekly community outreach and monthly youth workshops. Colley described the workshops as crucial, stating, “These workshops provide a safe space for young people to grow, express themselves, and become active contributors to their communities.” HNV's outreach specialists regularly connect with residents in neighborhoods across the township. This outreach ensures that resources are accessible without making assumptions about who may need support, reducing the risk of overdoses and promoting overall community well-being. As part of the initiative, HNV will install Narcan distribution boxes in high-traffic areas, including the Holmes Road Community Network Center and the Tyler Road Community Resource Center. These boxes will offer 24/7 access to fentanyl testing strips and Narcan, giving community members essential tools to prevent overdoses. Geared toward Ypsilanti’s 10- to 18-year-old population, the monthly workshops will focus on skill building, leadership, resilience and substance use prevention. Each two-hour workshop will integrate art and music with multifaceted skill development. Workshop topics include public speaking, professional networking, self-advocacy with local leaders, professional mentorship and urban gardening. Colley commented, “We want to foster a lasting sense of trust and collaboration between Ypsilanti Township youth and local government, ensuring they feel empowered to engage, advocate and contribute to their community.” The workshops will provide a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where creativity and self-expression are celebrated. Activities such as community quilts, vision boards, and advocacy through art will encourage critical thinking, teamwork and creativity. Additionally, workshops will address the underlying causes of substance use by teaching coping strategies and stress management techniques, empowering participants to make healthier choices. The workshops will also offer career exploration opportunities, helping participants envision and work toward future goals. Youth will learn skills such as resume writing, crafting professional cover letters, and interviewing techniques. By partnering with local organizations, HNV ensures access to career resources and mentorship opportunities. Colley elaborated on the program’s transformative impact. “Many participants may never have been exposed to the careers or opportunities we’re highlighting. By introducing them to these paths, we help them envision a future they might not have considered and equip them with the tools to pursue it,” he said. At the end of its first year, participants will leave the program with enhanced communication skills, leadership abilities, emotional resilience and a strong sense of self-advocacy. They will also learn to navigate community resources and establish support networks. Another key feature of the program is the involvement of local professionals who will share their experiences and provide guidance during workshops. “We believe that exposing youth to diverse opportunities and relatable success stories inspires them to envision their potential and take meaningful steps toward their goals,” Colley stated. The professionals participating will include local first responders, armed forces personnel, therapists, social workers, educators and representatives of local colleges and universities. Colley concluded, “This program is about more than equipping youth with practical skills—it’s about fostering a mindset of empowerment and responsibility. We want the next generation to feel confident engaging with local government, advocating for change, and actively participating in their community’s progress. By focusing on education, trust and engagement, we’re preparing young people to lead and ensuring a healthier, more connected Ypsilanti Township.” GROUNDCOVER NEWS What’s Happening at the Ann Arbor District Library Open 10am–8pm Daily Hang out in any of our five locations across town, browsing books, magazines, newspapers, and more, or check out movies, CDs, art prints, musical instruments, and home tools— you name it! Study and meeting rooms, fast and free WiFi, and plenty of places to sit and hang out Public Computers The AADL has public-access Internet computers available for use by both cardholders and noncardholders at all five locations. Each station has USB ports, headphone jacks, and some of the fastest wifi speeds in town! Preschool Storytimes and Baby Playgroups Join our storytellers on weekdays inside the library for fun songs, stories, puppets, and moement! Visit aadl.org/storytimes to view a list of upcoming in-person storytimes and playgroups. You can also stream and download our recorded storytimes online at AADL.TV. FEATURED EVENT 5 Sunday, March 9 • 11am–4pm Downtown Library We’re observing Mario Day with themed activities! Join us for Bingo, warp pipe bean bag toss, photo ops, crafts, MarioKart, and more. Costumes are welcome! For a full list of the day’s activities, visit aadl.org/marioday.
6 GROUNDCOVER NEWS MEDIA All out war on information! It is now more important than ever to find a good news source because there is a war between lies and truth, fake news and real news. Mark Zuckerberg announced his alignment with President Donald J. Trump by ending a third party fact-checking program and moving to a community notes (user-based content moderation) on Facebook. Elon Musk, the owner of X (formerly known as Twitter); Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon and the owner of the Washington Post; and Mark Zuckerberg, founder of Meta (Facebook), have aligned with President Trump along with other information tech giants. This tech oligarchy makes it damn near impossible for an average ordinary citizen to receive truthful and accurate information because they swamp their respective media outlets with propaganda. President Trump is now suing Meta, ABC, CBS and The Des Moines Register; the Federal Communications Commission is threatening to investigate PBS and NPR. This is a direct attack on the First Amendment by trying to intimidate media networks. At the core of journalism is truth (facts). Those who choose to be informed, such as myself, rely on accurate news to be able to make a good, conscious decision. By doing so, we have to learn to take a close look at what and where we receive information of MIKE JONES Groundcover vendor No. 113 any sort. It is safe to say that X, The Washington Post, and Facebook won’t be consistently providing their users with truthful and accurate information. They will be providing users with information that benefits their agenda. All nations control what they want people to see and hear, some more than others. In the United States, media networks tend to lean to the left or right which can lead to division, deception and confusion. This is due to the fact that these media outlets are funded with advertising, and digitalization of news has caused financial incentives to produce “click bait.” Let's take a look at major media networks; I hate to say it, but it is almost as misleading as fake-news because you see and hear what they want you to see and hear. They put their own spin on the facts or hide certain facts, misleading their audience. Those in power and these networks do this without pause because they know Grateful for what I've learned not to be D.A. Groundcover writer I want to begin this article by wishing all a Happy New Year! Even those who may do things that cause negativity knowingly or unknowingly. I refuse to be part of problems. I choose to grow from my experiences, rather than tear myself down and/or be torn down. I will be the first to admit that I am far from perfect or even good all of the time. Most of what I’m grateful for and what I’ve learned not to be came primarily from examining myself and how I talk to, respond to, and treat others. At the end of the day, none of us are blameless. We all have a story no matter how we were raised or neglected. At some point we all must decide how we will pursue our lives. I’ve never had an issue with someone’s skin color, language, economic status or whatever it is that makes up the individual, as long as it does not interfere with the free will of another. If there is anyone that I’ve wronged or caused harm to in any way, please forgive me and I apologize. I am healing and transforming because I accept who I am. That is not to imply that I’m content to remain where I am. I just realize that life is a journey and a process. Had I not endured and gone through most of the things in my life experience, I could not have come this far. I am also grateful to know that Jesus Christ loves me and everyone equally. I will not force my beliefs upon another. People can choose to do and think as they please or how they understand. By having horrible acts exacted upon my person, it teaches me what I do not want to do to others. I only hope that I can be an encouragement or uplift others who may feel alone, worthless, or unworthy to be happy, healthy and to be themselves. FEBRUARY 21, 2025 Media Bias Chart from Ad Fontes Media. Where do you think Groundcover News would fall? most people don’t do their research and will believe whatever information is given. There are media outlets that cover the true facts like Groundcover News and other street newspapers; some of my favorite independent and nonprofit outlets are Democracy Now, Al Jazeera, and Status Coup. One must be informed and know where to receive truthful and accurate information. Independent or non-profit outlets are often the best source of information because they are not paid by the political-corporate media machine that produces watered-down information such as the networks in the bottom half of the pictured chart. In conclusion, I encourage you to take a deep look at where you receive your information. So, thank you to my friends and foes for ushering me to a higher love and awareness of myself as well as others around me. I realize that we all need each other in one way or another, and life to me is more satisfying in unity. I won’t use last names, but thank you mom, dad, sisters, brothers, friends Ron G., Susan B., Lindsay C., Jessi A., Sandy S., Glenn G., Elizabeth F., Laurie L., Willie C., Gregory P., Cindy C., Lenore, Dave, Double J, S.O.S, and many more. Live life, love, prosper. Even if that’s just waking up to greet another day and/or meet the next challenge. Believe me, this is a continuous process. Thank you Ronnie M., you’ve taught me the kind of parent to never be to any child. I hope that Jesus heals your sickness. I want my daughter E.M. to know that I love her, Happy belated Birthday, and I look forward to seeing you.
FEBRUARY 21, 2025 EVENTS GROUNDCOVER NEWS 7 Explore actionable solutions to one of the most pressing issues of our time — homelessness —at a moment when our local community is reporting the fastest rising rate of homelessness in our history. This event features critically-acclaimed director Don Sawyer’s powerful new documentary, Beyond the Bridge: A Solution to Homelessness (asolutiontohomelessness.com), examines the root causes of homelessness and explores comprehensive solutions. Filmed over 40,000 miles, it captures insights from 12 cities and interviews with dozens of service providers and policymakers, all driven by one key question: “How can we solve homelessness in a comprehensive way?” TUESDAY, MARCH 11TH 6:00–9:00 PM (DOORS OPEN AT 5:00 PM) MICHIGAN THEATER, 603 E LIBERTY ST. A FREE and open to the public and University of Michigan community. Seating is limited! Register for your ticket today at bit.ly/BeyondTheBridgeA2 University of Michigan faculty research on poverty, homelessness, and related issues will be showcased in the lobby from 5-6 pm prior to the event. The screening will be followed by an engaging panel addressing the alarming rise in homelessness locally and nationally, highlighting innovative policy solutions that are being explored in our city and county. S Beth Angell School of Social Work Dean Christopher Taylor City of Ann Arbor Mayor Don Sawyer Film Director Roshanak Mehdipanah U-M School of Public Health Jennifer Hall Ann Arbor Housing Commission Molly Smith Avalon Housing M O D S O E R I T T R S P A N E L
8 GROUNDCOVER NEWS CUBA Who are the real terrorists? Cuba — the word brings many conflicting images to mind. The Bay of Pigs in 1961 and the Cuban missile crisis of October 1962 are in the historical mind of America. I think you must see Cuba yourself to get a feel for this jewel of the Caribbean. Jose Marti was the poet, journalist and revolutionary who called the United States "the Other America," the colossus to the north, in contrast to America as the name for the New World on the first map made by Amerigo Vespucci which focused on South America as the new world. The amount of gold extracted there is beyond imagination. Marti, the father of the Cuban revolution, is worthy of study due to his intellectual work and participation in the second Cuban revolution. He was killed in battle in 1895 before Teddy Roosevelt and the Rough Riders claimed victory and declared Cuba as a U.S. territory. Fidel Castro and Ernesto Che Guevara are the most famous revolutionaries of the 1959 revolution. They are heroes to many but among the worst villains in history according to the imperialist narrative. The amount of HOUSING from page 4 WithOut Leave). The vet stressed that this was a triggering designation. The shelter claimed the AWOL designation while the buddy was addressing a warrant as planned, to eliminate a barrier to housing. When the buddy returned to the shelter, they were already discharged due to being marked AWOL — despite their ongoing efforts to work to comply with shelter, parole and chain of command issues. All this was done while still navigating daily expenses and tasks required for their bare minimum existence. Addressing their previous warrant issue was necessary in order to pass background checks for housing and proceed with maximized VA case management opportunities. While they were trying to make themselves housing-ready, they were kicked out of the shelter. I don’t know a parent who doesn’t stress about making sure childrens’ school routines are consistent. Imagine having to navigate those stressors without a home. As a child from a family of firefighters, I’m sensitive to those displaced due to fire, which happens too often. Some buddies shared they have had to resort to having leases in another person’s name; others lack leases. Both of these situations can be stressful and have risks. One buddy KEN PARKS Groundcover vendor No. 490 terrorism organized from Miami by Cuban-Americans has been documented, especially the bombing of Cubana de Aviacion Flight 455, which killed everyone on board including the Cuban fencing team. The Carnegie Council has published on this including recently released JFK files. The Miami counter-revolutionaries and mafia-CIA connection is still in play as Trump cultivates deeper relations with that trio. Cuba was last accused of terrorism because they helped end the civil war in Colombia by hosting negotiations between the FARC revolutionaries and the Colombian government which was armed and supported by the CIA. The described the current housing climate for the formerly incarcerated as “a different type of slavery. Slavery isn’t just about Black people anymore, it looks different; it’s poor wages, deep state is at work. I wrote on that in Groundcover June 28, 2024. Remember Richard Werner for his excellent podcast and Substack on the central planners of the deep state. The Cubans see the era of armed struggle as finished. The call for military action to free Guantanamo from U. S. occupation was stopped by Fidel who talked of the need for patience. Every revolution must work with the call for revenge against the old regime and its crimes. The mistakes of the revolution do not negate the great progress in education, healthcare and a culture of human dignity. The struggle is much bigger than the armed struggle and it is far from over. Opportunism is a temptation for every human being. I have been going to Cuba since 1994 with Pastors for Peace caravans and the U.S.-Cuba Labor Exchange. I am going back this year on March 4. Thank you to those who helped me get a ticket; I will send reports from Cuba about Cuba today. Cuba needs computers and I will take what I can, hopefully some tablets and laptops. If you can help, please donate to Groundcover Venmo, vendor No. 490. La lucha sigue! The struggle continues! lack of opportunities. I feel like after not getting in trouble for 15 years I should have the same options and opportunities as other people.” One buddy reported becoming homeless again after getting assistance through Rapid Rehousing. This buddy explained there is now an eviction on their record after lacking adequate legal representation following multiple counts of hidden administrative fees, building issues, exploitive utility billing, and cost of rent increases. The same buddy also explained they were renting from one of the largest management properties in the community. Their voucher was revoked after police contact, and now they have to wait a year to be eligible for a voucher again. A 2024 University of Chicago study discusses the significance of what they call safety net utilization. This refers to the supports such as Medicaid, food assistance and subsidized housing which increase household resources. These benefits, according to the University of Chicago, are vital especially to the homeless, as they make the difference in if a person has resources to be housed, eat, and have access to care to keep them healthy. While published statistics, especially on the surface, should be viewed with some skepticism, a 2023 University of Chicago research brief about mortality reports non-elderly homeless have a 3.5 times higher overall mortality than their housed peers after accounting for protective factors. Some of the important protective factors present in previously published data sets and recent discussions with homeless people include: observed family connections, group demographics, income, continuing education, employment status and geography. One buddy expressed the strain surrounding the poverty lines. For a single person the monthly income limit for food assistance is $1,255, which is less than the market value of a local apartment. Also, during the eligibility evaluation process, homeless people are penalized for not having approved housing related expenses despite the fact things such as gas for heat and cooking fuel are critical for survival and should be accepted. A buddy who exited homelessness explained that being homeless was more expensive than anticipated as they were unable to store food easily, and a car still costs money. Additionally, they expected friends and family to be more supportive, which also made showering and other basics harder to access. While many do receive or may be eligible to FEBRUARY 21, 2025 6/30/2025 receive benefits, the truth remains that government agencies can’t be depended upon for timeliness, fairness or accuracy, and ultimately the most vulnerable are also most likely to fall prey to systemic flaws while doing everything in their ability to negotiate those systems. While there may be programming available through Continuums of Care (the federally-mandated county governing bodies for homeless issues) to address resource gaps, most programs are geared towards families, not single adults. Additionally, many individuals are interested in increasing income but fear losing current safety nets; or navigating systematic barriers are prohibitive. A HUD fact sheet suggests that most housing program staff lack sufficient specialized knowledge, thus potentially placing those who wish to work in a position where they fear losing stabilizing benefits. While some may struggle with benefits, some choose not to engage with governmental systems, and it is important to remember some people are excluded from benefits based on a variety of factors including legal status, income and systemic problems, even including data entry errors.
FEBRUARY 21, 2025 PUZZLES GROUNDCOVER NEWS CROSSWORD International Network of Street Papers 9 Groundcover Vendor Code While Groundcover is a non-profit, and paper vendors are self-employed contractors, we still have expectations of how vendors should conduct themselves while selling and representing the paper. The following is our Vendor Code of Conduct, which every vendor reads and signs before receiving a badge and papers. We request that if you discover a vendor violating any tenets of the Code, please contact us and provide as many details as possible. Our paper and our vendors should be positively impacting our County. • Groundcover will be distributed for a voluntary donation. I agree not to ask for more than the cover price or solicit donations by any other means. • When selling Groundcover, I will always have the current biweekly issue of Groundcover available for customer purchase. • I agree not to sell additional goods or products when selling the paper or to panhandle, including panhandling with only one paper or selling an issue more than 4 weeks old. • I will wear and display my badge when selling papers and refrain from wearing it or other Groundcover gear when engaged in other activities. • I will only purchase the paper from Groundcover Staff and will not sell to or buy papers from other Groundcover vendors, especially vendors who have been suspended or terminated. • I agree to treat all customers, staff, and other vendors respectfully. I will not “hard sell,” threaten, harass or pressure customers, staff, or other vendors verbally or physically. • I will not sell Groundcover under the influence of drugs or alcohol. • I understand that I am not a legal employee of Groundcover but a contracted worker responsible for my own well-being and income. • I understand that my badge is property of Groundcover and will not deface it. I will present my badge when purchasing the papers. • I agree to stay off private property when selling Groundcover. • I understand to refrain from selling on public buses, federal property or stores unless there is permission from the owner. • I agree to stay at least one block away from another vendor in downtown areas. I will also abide by the Vendor Corner Policy. • I understand that Groundcover strives to be a paper that covers topics of homelessness and poverty while providing sources of income for the homeless. I will try to help in this effort and spread the word. If you would like to report a violation of the Vendor Code or leave positive review of a Vendor experience please email contact@ groundcovernews.com or fill out the contact form on our website. ACROSS 1. Netting 5. Beer quantity 9. Small part in a movie 14. Trade show 15. Killer whale 16. Eyeball benders 17. Appear 18. Back 19. Bullion unit 20. Suitability 23. Iranian coins 24. Floral necklace 25. "Peanuts" creator 28. Finely woven fabric used for sheets 32. Aussie "bear" 33. Sandler of "Big Daddy" 35. Escape 36. Policy favoring governmental interference in economic affairs 40. Six-sided game piece 41. Historic periods 42. Sheriff's gang 43. Unattractively thin 46. Adviser 47. Bleat 48. Cognizant 50. Style of coat with overlap at the front 56. Chip dip 57. Reclined 58. Fertilizer ingredient 59. Whines 60. On the open water 61. Grass stem 62. Embarrass 63. Geek 64. Shell competitor DOWN 1. ___ Verde National Park 2. Board member, for short 3. Blueprint detail, for short 4. Local self-government 5. Spanish conquistador 6. "He's ___ nowhere man" (Beatles lyric) 7. Picket line crossers 8. Nobleman 9. Word inventor 10. Experiencing a suspension of breathing 11. Periodicals, informally 12. Love god 13. His "4" was retired 21. Pertaining to hair 22. Fragrant resin 25. Tire marks 26. Shaped like a volcano 27. Bigot 28. Taps 29. Select group 30. Catch, in a way 31. Old Eurasian wheat with bearded ears 33. Ethereal, in poetry 34. Genetic material 37. Corrupt 38. "La Boheme," e.g. 39. Unrivaled 44. Violations 45. Ohio River tributary 46. Female follower of Bacchus 48. Belittle 49. Drier, as humor 50. Slap on 51. Spanish stewpot 52. Brio 53. Genuine 54. Congers 55. River barriers 56. Place to get a massage
10 GROUNDCOVER NEWS COMMUNITY People in the neighborhood: John Jackson John Jackson is in his mid 30s and is an unhoused resident of the City of Ypsilanti. Currently homeless for reasons he did not want to discuss, he frequents the Daytime Warming Center and Weather Amnesty (a community-led overnight sheltering program) where he sleeps most nights. He also takes refuge in an outbuilding on a kindly neighbor's farm near town. Finding work while homeless is not an easy feat. Not knowing where you are going to sleep at night means not having a place to shower, not having a place to keep nice clothes, not having enough rest or breakfast to perform well in an interview and you may have additional troubles with transportation and communication. John is looking for a job so we decided to use this column for a mock interview. I began with the common question: “What would you like to tell me about yourself?” John describes himself as an anomaly. “I’m evidence of a code working properly; a code of perfection!” John and I both laugh. “Haha, really I am just somebody trying to leave the world a better place than I found it.” JC: What would you say is your greatest weakness? JJ: My greatest weakness is the need for perfection. This sounds cliche for a job interview, but John clarifies, “No, it isn’t the keeps private. We talked about how things are with his daughter now. “It’s been a hard road, but we’ve JIM CLARK Groundcover vendor No. 139 typical answer. I mean this need will really keep me from finishing something or even starting something. What makes that worse is that I also have a hard time asking for help.” John becomes even more vulnerable. By adding “... and people sometimes tell me I’m a little vain.” From this a pattern emerges which seems to be that John is expecting more from himself. The need for perfection says performance is important and finding it difficult to ask for help means he believes in autonomy and independence. Another way to say it is that John appreciates excellence and aspires to greater integrity. JC: What would you say has been your biggest life lesson so far? JJ: I learned what kind of man I am at 36. Unfortunately, I also learned what kind of father I’ve been to my kid. John has a 19-year-old daughter who has been estranged for reasons he made progress. We’re making plans to go out to dinner again soon. It’s just baby steps right now. She’s still pissed.” JC: But not too pissed to go out to dinner again. JJ: Right. JC: How do you handle stress? JJ: I have a few things that are not exactly healthy, but I am changing that. JC: How so? JJ: I started reading again. John produced a book titled “Lord of the Flies.” JC: Wow! What motivated that choice? JJ: This was my favorite book in high school, I’ve read it a million times. He spoke with affection. JC: What is the most stressful situation you’ve encountered at work? JJ: I was working for a hotel when a guest approached me making unreasonable demands. She got personal by calling me a name and referring to me as "you people." JC: What happened? JJ: I lost my cool, but I went right to the manager and let them handle it. JC: What would you have done differently? JJ: I was a little rude, so I would have said "I am so sorry this is happening to you ma’am, let me get my manager to assist you." JC: Good answer. JJ: I’m trying, man, I’m trying. It’s all a learning experience. JC: What’s keeping you homeless now? JJ: Myself. JC: Wow, that’s such an honest answer. JJ: Yeah, it’s just a lack of effort. I’m just kind of hanging out too much. JC: So what are you doing to change that? JJ: Well, here I am, giving an interview to try and find a job. JC: Oh good, so you’re being proactive now. What kind of work are you looking for? JJ: Honestly, I really like hospitality. Being a front desk clerk is a good fit and a good learning opportunity for me. JC: What would you do with a million dollars? JJ: I wouldn’t accept it. I am not always a character. I am sincerely working on living a humble and modest lifestyle. In other words — John is trying to leave the world in a better place than when he found it, as he said above. Given his self awareness, candidness and willingness to face his challenges head on, it seems the first corner of the world John Jackson is striving to make better is himself. FEBRUARY 21, 2025
FEBRUARY 21, 2025 EVENTS GROUNDCOVER NEWS 11 Michelle Mermaid Doris Angel
12 GROUNDCOVER NEWS FOOD Blueberry loaf ALEXANDRA GRANBERG Groundcover contributor Ingredients: 2 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup sugar 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 tablespoon lemon zest 3/4 cup milk (any type, including non-dairy) 1/2 cup neutral oil 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 and 1/2 cups blueberries, frozen or fresh Optional glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar 2 tablespoons lemon juice Directions: Preheat the oven to 355F. In a large bowl, whisk dry ingredients, including lemon zest. Mix in wet ingredients. Once fully combined, stir blueberries. Pour into greased loaf pan (or lined with parchment paper). Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, until inserted toothpick comes out clean. To create more of a dessert, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice and evenly drizzle over warm loaf. in PUZZLE SOLUTIONS FEBRUARY 21, 2025 $5 OFF NATURAL FOODS MARKET 216 N. FOURTH AVENUE ANN ARBOR, MI PHONE (734) 994 - 9174 • PEOPLESFOOD.COOP ANY PURCHASE OF $30 OR MORE One coupon per transaction. Must present coupon at the time of purchase. Coupon good for in-store only. No other discounts or coop cards apply. Not valid for gift cards, case purchases, beer or wine. OFFER EXPIRES 3/6/2025
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