Telegram - Serving Metropolitan Detroit Since 1944

DETROIT - Representatives of the Barton McFarland Neighborhood Association, Theo Broughton and William Davis, the principal of Barton Elementary, Rosa Adams, and neighborhood police officers, Colette Burks-Weathers and Errol Franklin of the Detroit Police Department today joined state Rep. Karen Whitsett (D-Detroit), who presented Barton Elementary School with funds to be used for crucial lighting, sidewalk, and playground repairs, building maintenance, and general beautification. Whitsett secured $178,000 in state funds last October as part of supplemental spending legislation for the 2022 fiscal year.

State Rep. Karen Whitsett (center left) presents a check to Principal Rosa Adams (right) with Officers Colette Burks-Weathers (left) and Errol Franklin (center right).

"I'm so thankful to have secured these funds to assist the children and families of my community through the improvement of Barton Elementary School and surrounding areas," Whitsett said. "It is important to ensure that our children are able to learn in an environment that is safe, clean and beautiful, and I'm glad to be able to help make that possible for the students of Barton Elementary."

"We are just elated to have Rep. Whitsett here with us to present a check for $178,000, which will take Barton Elementary to the next level of education," Adams said.

"It is incumbent upon the community and the government to work diligently to create an environment that will build character and excitement in our young people to mold them into more responsible adults," Broughton said.

"The school needs to enhance its presence in the community, and a new marquee and other improvements will help to do that," Davis said. "As a former police commissioner, I want everyone to feel safe as a part of our community."

Whitsett said after the presentation that she is looking forward to more opportunities to continue to give back to the people of her district.