The Chronicle News Electronic Publication No 62 October 1st - October 15th 2024 by The Chronicle News

Connecting Communities 2024 Election Edition

Breaking Down the Ingham County Races: A Guide to November 2024 Candidates and Issues

As the November 2024 election approaches, it is crucial for voters in Ingham County to be informed about the candidates running for various offices. Local elections have a direct impact on our community, from school boards to county commissioners, and your vote will shape the future of our area. Below is a detailed overview of the key races, highlighting all the candidates running for each position.

County Commissioner Races

County Commissioners hold significant roles in local governance, as they are responsible for making decisions that directly affect the daily lives of residents within their county. Here are the

key reasons why county commissioners are important:

1. Policy Making and Legislation

County commissioners serve as the legislative body for the county, enacting ordinances and resolutions that govern various aspects of life within the county. These policies can range from land use and zoning regulations to public safety measures, environmental protections, and more. The decisions they make have long-term impacts on how communities within the county develop and function.

2. Budget and Fiscal Management

One of the primary responsibilities of county commissioners

is to oversee the county’s budget. They allocate funds to various county departments and services, such as law enforcement, public health, transportation, and education. Effective fiscal management by the commissioners ensures that the county's resources are used efficiently and that essential services are adequately funded.

3. Infrastructure and Public Works

County commissioners are often involved in decisions related to infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and public buildings. They prioritize and approve funding for these projects, which are crucial for economic develop

LANSING – With the mailing of over 21,000 ballots to Lansing City voter. this will kick off the first day of the Michigan Presidential Election and Lansing City voters can come pick up an absentee ballot at either Lansing City Hall or Reo Elections Office.

Located at 1221 Reo Rd., just a

little northwest of the intersection of S. MLK Blvd. and Jolly Road and on CATA Route #9, the Reo Elections Office has free parking and a secure election drop box where ballot applications and ballots can be dropped off 24 hours a day.

Starting on Saturday, October 26, the Reo Elections Office will

be one of two early voting sites for Lansing City Voters . In a similar experience to Election Day, early voters can feed their own ballot into the tabulator. Results will not be known by anyone until 8pm on Election Day. The other early vot-

In 1972, Shirley Chisholm made history as the first Black woman to seek the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination, an audacious move that challenged both racial and gender norms in American politics. Running under the campaign slogan “Unbought and Unbossed,” Chisholm’s candidacy was a bold declaration of independence in a political landscape dominated by white men.

Chisholm, already a trailblazer as the first Black congresswoman, knew the odds were stacked against her. She faced significant obstacles, not just from her opponents but also from within her own par-

The Legacy of Dr. Mar tin Luther King Jr

Black History

Meet the Candidate:Shirley Chisholm’s Historic Presidential Campaign of 1972: Breaking Barriers and Paving the Way

ty. Many dismissed her candidacy as merely symbolic, but Chisholm was serious in her mission to give a voice to those often ignored by mainstream politics—women, people of color, the poor, and working-class Americans. She wanted to expand the definition of who could lead in America.

While she didn’t secure the Democratic nomination, her campaign left an indelible mark on U.S. politics. Her refusal to back down in the face of doubt and opposition inspired future generations of women and people of color to run for office. Her

impact is still felt today, seen in the candidacies of politicians like Kamala Harris, Cory Booker, and Barack Obama.

Chisholm’s legacy reminds us that representation matters. She showed that women of color have a place on the national stage, and her bold run for the presidency continues to be a symbol of perseverance and the fight for equality. As we enter election season, her 1972 run serves as a powerful reminder of the progress we’ve made and the work that still needs to be done to ensure equal representation for all Americans.

Meet the Candidate:Fannie Lou Hamer: The Voice of the Unheard

In the ongoing fight for civil rights and political equality, few voices were as fearless and transformative as Fannie Lou Hamer’s. Born into poverty in 1917 in the deeply segregated Mississippi Delta, Hamer grew up as the youngest of 20 children in a sharecropping family. Her upbringing was marred by the harsh realities of racism and exploitation, but it was her determination to change the system that would leave an indelible mark on history. Hamer first became involved in the Civil Rights Movement in 1962 after attending a meeting led by the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). There, she learned about her right to vote—a right denied to countless Black Americans in the South through intimidation, poll taxes, litera-

cy tests, and violence. For Hamer, this was a turning point. She attempted to register to vote but was fired from her job and evicted from her home for trying. Undeterred, she became a passionate advocate for voting rights. In 1964, Hamer co-founded the Mississippi Freedom Democrat -

ic Party (MFDP), a grassroots organization created to challenge the state’s allwhite, segregationist Democratic delegation at the

Democratic National Convention. Her goal was simple but powerful: to expose the systemic exclusion of Black voters and ensure that African Americans had a voice in the political process. At the convention, Hamer delivered a now-iconic tele -

vised speech, where she recounted her experiences of violent voter suppression, including a brutal beating by police for her activism. Her raw testimony was so powerful that President Lyndon B. Johnson, fearing its impact, hastily called a press conference to divert attention.

But Hamer’s voice could not be silenced. Her defiance of systemic racism, voter suppression, and intimidation struck a chord with the nation. As she famously declared, “I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired.” Her words became a rallying cry for those demanding justice and equality.

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A campaign poster reads "Vote Shirley CHISHOLM 1972. Unbought and Unbossed." Photo Credit-U.S. Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division

Meet the Candidate-John Dewane for Ingham County Prosecutor

Lansing was amid a gun violence crisis in 202122. In just two years, 36 firearms homicides were reported, a 57% increase over the previous two years.

"Lansing braces for bloodshed amid another summer of gun violence" read the City Pulse headline in 2021, a prediction that was tragically accurate as the city had a record number of homicides that year.

Upon his appointment as Ingham County Prosecutor in late December 2022, John Dewane took immediate action to address gun violence while assuring equal justice for all. He

stepped up enforcement of gun laws while targeting repeat and habitual offenders. With the county and city's support for the Advance Peace violence interruption project, Lansing gun homicides have declined significantly. The City Pulse now reports a 47% drop in Lansing's gun violence homicides during John Dewane's administration as Prosecutor.

"It's my goal to make Ingham County a healthier, safer place to live," said John Dewane. "We are working with community groups, police and victim advocates to achieve greater peace in Lansing's neighborhoods and

provide alternatives for non-violent and youthful offenders. We don't want people to be caught up in the system, or to be exposed to violence in their communities."

That City Pulse article from 2021 was tragically prophetic; Six homicides occurred in Ingham County from June to August of 2021. This past summer there were zero.

"We still have too many guns on the streets, and too much violence," said Dewane. "But I believe we're making progress, and we hope to see this continue, with the support of the community."

Meet the Candidate: Ryan J. Smith for Lansing Community College Board of Trustees

LANSING , MI – Ryan J. Smith, a longtime community leader and lifelong resident of the Lansing area, has officially announced his candidacy for the Lansing Community College (LCC) Board of Trustees. Smith, a former Williamston Hornet and Michigan State Spartan, aims to bring his passion for education and leadership experience to the role, promising

to serve students and the community with dedication and integrity.

Smith shared his thoughts on why he’s running for the position and highlighted his qualifications in a recent voter guide survey conducted by the League of Women Voters. He emphasized three key attributes that he believes are essential for successful leadership: listening, compromise, and hard work.

Key Leadership Qualities

Listening: "Successful leaders represent everyone, not just those who agree with them," says Smith. He believes a strong leader is open to new ideas and willing to listen to diverse perspectives in order to find better solutions.

Willingness to Compromise: Smith acknowledges the difficulty of making everyone happy but sees compromise as an essential tool for driving the community forward. He strives to mediate differences and find balanced solutions for all.

Hard Work and Leading by Example: "Time is our most valuable asset," Smith remarks. He is committed to investing the necessary time and effort to foster collaboration, develop ideas, and ensure their successful implementation.

Having served in various leadership roles within the Lansing community, Smith has consistently

demonstrated these qualities. As a longtime neighborhood leader and an engaged community member, he pledges to continue applying these principles if elected to the LCC Board of Trustees.

Vision for Lansing Community College

When asked about his vision for LCC, Smith expressed a forward-thinking approach: "A successful community college acts like an educational Swiss Army knife," he explains. Smith believes LCC should offer students a wide variety of pathways to help them achieve their personal and professional goals. Whether students are following traditional academic routes, pursuing vocational training, or seeking entrepreneurial opportunities, he aims to ensure that LCC remains adaptable to their needs and continues to provide comprehensive support.

In addition to maintaining current programs, Smith wants to explore new educational opportunities that align with the future job market. "We need to make sure we're preparing students for the careers of today and tomorrow," Smith emphasizes, adding that he is committed to helping students find the career path that best fits their talents and ambitions.

Courtsey Photo-John Dewane Democrat for Ingham County Prosecutor

Courtesy Photo-Ryan J. Smith Candidate for Lansing Community College Board of Trustees

Meet the Candidate: Emily Dievendorf, A Strong Voice for the 77th District

Iam running for re-election to state representative for the 77th District because I believe in a government that listens to, involves and represents everyone. My vision for a collaborative and representative democracy is simple: a government that serves all of us, not just the wealthiest or most powerful. I believe that our democratic process works best when it amplifies and prioritizes our underrepresented and underserved communities, ensuring that their needs are met and their rights protected.

We’ve accomplished a great deal in a short amount of time: securing funding for gun violence prevention, ensuring free meals for school children, providing universal pre-K, and supporting

working families by eliminating the pension tax and expanding tax credits. But I know there’s still so much more to do.

In my second term I will continue to fight to protect worker rights, expand economic opportunities, defend civil rights and ensure that every person has access to the resources they need to succeed. I will advocate for environmental justice, so that no community is left bearing the burden of pollution or climate change, and push for affordable housing initiatives that recognize housing as a fundamental right, not a privilege. I believe in protecting the rights of all individuals—whether it’s defending reproductive rights, advancing economic security, or fighting for

equal treatment under the law.

As a key battleground state, Michigan faces an ultra-conservative agenda that seeks to divide us, but I believe that leadership should be about collaboration, not control. I will work across the aisle to bring people together and find common-sense solutions to the challenges we face. Whether it’s improving our schools, fixing our infrastructure, expanding access to housing, or making healthcare more affordable, we need leadership that prioritizes people over politics.

Meet the Candidate: Rachel Willis-Candidate for

Ingham County Board of Commissioners, District 6

LANSING , MI – After nearly 13 years of dedicated service on the Lansing School District Board of Education, Rachel Willis is ready to take on a new challenge. A lifelong resident of Lansing, Willis has announced her candidacy for the Ingham County Board of Commissioners, representing District 6. Her decision marks a new chapter in her ongoing commitment to improving the lives of Lansing residents.

With a background in social work specializing in child welfare, particularly in foster care and adoption efforts, Willis brings a wealth of expertise to the table. During her tenure on the School Board, which included four years as Board President, she demonstrated her ability to lead and make impactful decisions that prioritize the welfare of children

and families.

"Serving on the Lansing School District Board has been one of the greatest honors of my life, but after 13 years, I feel it's time to take my experience to a new arena," says Willis. "I want to help make Ingham County a great place to live, work, and raise a family."

As a mother, Willis is deeply invested in creating vibrant neighborhoods where children can play in clean and safe parks. Her passion for public health and child welfare remains a driving force behind her decision to run for the County Board. She envisions a community where families thrive, and she believes her experience and expertise will allow her to make significant

contributions to achieving that goal.

"I want to lend my voice and experience as a public health and child welfare expert to make decisions that will lead to thriving families and communities," Willis explains.

In addition to her experience in child welfare, Willis is known for her ability to build consensus and work across different groups to get things done. "I was raised in a culture of public service, and I'm dedicated to putting the welfare of people above politics," she says.

Courtesy Photo-Emily Dievendorf Candidate for State Representative the 77th District

Courtesy Photo-Rachel Willis Candidate for Ingham County Commissioner District 6

Meet the Candidate: Keturah Bouyer's Vision for Lansing School Board

LANSING , MI – Keturah Bouyer, a proud product of the Lansing School District and long-time advocate for education, is excited to announce her candidacy for the Lansing School Board. Bouyer, a former student of Lewton Elementary, Dwight Rich Middle School, and a 1997 graduate of JW Sexton High School, brings a unique and personal perspective to the race.

Bouyer, who earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Ministry Leadership from Cornerstone University, has a deep passion for education. She homeschooled her children for five years before enrolling them in the Lansing School District. Bouyer’s journey in the district began as a parent volunteer, driven by a desire to know the students and be involved in their education. This experience eventually led her to become a teacher within the district, sparking her inspiration to make an even broader impact.

"Parents and students would approach me to thank me for being their teacher and for my presence in the school," Bouyer reflects. "Hearing 'thank you' so often has fueled my desire to continue serving and advocating for our students and families." Bouyer and her husband are both graduates of the Lansing School District, and together they have raised two Sexton High School graduates (class of 2022 and class of 2024). They also currently have a 10th grader at Sexton and an 8th grader at Mt. Hope. Her multifaceted experience as a parent, volunteer, substitute teacher, and employee of the district allows her to see the challenges and opportunities within the Lansing schools from multiple angles.

"As a School Board member, the decisions we make impact real students— students whose faces I see every day,"

Bouyer says. "I want to challenge the Board to get to know the students they represent, to identify them by name and not by data points on a chart."

Bouyer believes that teachers, as

the "resident experts," should be at the heart of curriculum decisions and educational standards. She also wants to remind parents and the community that the School Board "table" belongs to them, not just the people who sit around it. Her campaign is built on the values of integrity, transparency, and partnership, with the goal of fostering a school district that everyone can be proud to be part of.

"Ultimately, I’m running to ensure that every parent, student, and teacher feels proud to be a part of the Lansing School District," Bouyer explains. Bouyer’s candidacy reflects her long-standing dedication to the district and her desire to build a stronger, more connected community within Lansing schools.

For more information, please contact Keturah Bouyer, candidate for Lansing School Board.

ment, public safety, and overall quality of life. Their decisions on infrastructure can influence everything from traffic flow to the availability of public facilities.

4. Public Health and Safety

Commissioners play a crucial role in ensuring the health and safety of county residents. They oversee public health initiatives, manage emergency services, and work with local law enforcement to address crime and safety concerns. During public health crises, such as pandemics, they may implement or enforce health regulations to protect the community.

5. Economic Development

County commissioners are key players in promoting economic development within their jurisdiction. They can attract businesses, support local industry, and create policies that foster job growth and economic stability. Their decisions can significantly influence the economic health of the county and its ability to attract and retain residents and businesses.

6. Representation of Constituents

As elected officials, county commis-

sioners represent the interests of their constituents at the county level. They are the voice of the community in county government, ensuring that the needs and concerns of residents are addressed in the decision-making process. Their responsiveness to constituent concerns can lead to more effective governance and greater public trust.

7. Intergovernmental Relations

County commissioners often work with other levels of government—local, state, and federal—to coordinate efforts, secure funding, and implement

programs. Their ability to build relationships and collaborate across different government entities is crucial for addressing complex issues that extend beyond county borders.

8. Environmental Stewardship

Many county commissioners are tasked with overseeing environmental conservation efforts within their jurisdiction.

ing location will be at the Foster Community Center which starts on the same date. Hours and more details available at www.lansingvotes.gov.

Voters still have until late October to request a ballot to be mailed to them, but please be aware that the US Post Office states that it can take up to a week

for mail to be delivered. For more information, please visit www.LansingVotes.gov

At the same website, voters can find the closest drop box, check on the status of their absentee application, view the list of candidates, and so much more. Voters must return their ballot by 8 p.m.

on Election Day to be counted or can now take their ballot to their precinct or an early voting site to be tabulated. 24-hour, secure ballot drop boxes are located within 1.5 miles of any Lansing resident or voters can return their ballot via mail with postage paid. As an alternative to Reo Elections

This includes managing land... Scan to read full story Scan to read full story

Office, voters can come to Lansing City Hall, 124 West Michigan Ave., to pick up an absentee ballot in-person. For more information, visit www.LansingVotes. gov or call (517) 483-4131.

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ammograms are a standard screening radiology exam recommended for asymptomatic women over the age of 40 for early detection of breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. Recommended yearly mammographic screening helps detect breast cancer early which is easily amenable to less invasive treatment, decreasing mortality, and morbidity and significantly improving survival. So, what happens if you get a call back from your screening mammogram and further testing is recommended? There are several reasons for screen callbacks.

er Lansing Breast Imaging Center

“When a woman has her first mammogram, that is her baseline exam,” said Dr. Preeti Banga, breast imaging fellowship-trained ARS radiologist at MSU Health Care at McLaren Greater Lansing Breast Imaging Center. “The radiologist determines the breast density and looks for imaging findings that may merit further diagnostic workup. Since no prior mammograms are available, both breasts are compared to one another, particularly looking for asymmetries.

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Meet the Candidate: Lavonté Heard for Lansing School Board - A Champion for Community-Centered Education

Lavonté Heard is a dynamic candidate running for the Lansing School Board, bringing a vision deeply rooted in community, empowerment, and the well-being of every student. As a parent, educator, and advocate, Heard’s campaign is centered around the idea that true educational reform starts with the involvement of families and communities—what he calls

Parent and Family

Engagement: The

Village as Key Stakeholders

Heard passionately believes that parents and families are not just participants but essential drivers in the educational journey of their children. "The Village knows exactly what our babies need," Heard emphasizes, advocating for a more significant and meaningful role for families in the educational process. He argues that bridging the gap between schools and student learning outcomes begins with giving families a powerful voice, recognizing them as the cornerstone of student success.

Empowering Teachers as Partners in Education

Lavonté Heard is equally committed to empowering teachers, viewing

them as the experts who can bridge the cultural and educational gaps that often exist between schools and communities. He envisions a

strengthened partnership between "The Village" and teachers, where relationships are built on mutual trust and respect. Heard advocates for a paradigm shift that honors teachers' expertise while recognizing the community’s role in the self-determination and success of its youth.

Improving Educational Outcomes: A Community Responsibility

For Heard, improving educational outcomes is not just the responsibility of schools—it’s a collective mission. He calls for the community to take an active role in addressing the gaps in student achievement. "We must take our babies' academic, cultural, emotional, and societal literacy into our own hands," he asserts. Heard’s vision includes a partnership...

Meet the Candidate: Cirea Strode for Lansing School Board-Championing Trust, Transparency, and Positive Change

Cirea Strode, a passionate advocate for education and community engagement, is thrilled to announce her candidacy for the Lansing School District Board of Education. With a deep commitment to empowering trust and inspiring a brighter future, Cirea is ready to bring much-needed positive change to Lansing schools.

As a Senior Analyst in Michigan’s Juvenile Justice Division, Cirea has developed a strong background in data analysis, quality assurance, and promoting accountability. These skills have equipped her to ensure that decisions made by the Lansing School Board are data-driven, transparent, and centered on the well-being of students.

Cirea's candidacy is rooted in her

belief that every child deserves a quality education and a community that stands behind them. As a parent with a child in the district, she sees firsthand

the challenges that students and families face daily. This personal experience drives her dedication to being a voice for those who may feel unheard.

Her vision for the Lansing School District is built on the principles of equity, transparency, and community collaboration. Cirea is committed to working with parents, teachers, and students to craft policies that reflect the shared goals of the community. She is particularly focused on ensuring that all students have access to the resources they need to succeed, advocating for inclusivity and the strengthening of the bonds between the district and the community.

Cirea’s campaign is also about empowering trust within the district. She believes that building trust between the

board, the schools, and the community is crucial for driving effective and lasting change. Her approach is one of open communication, transparency in decision-making, and active community engagement.

As she embarks on this journey, Cirea emphasizes that your support is crucial. She invites the Lansing community to join her in working together to create a better future for all students. Stay tuned for updates on her campaign, and don’t forget to cast your vote for Cirea Strode on Tuesday, November 5th!

BWL Sends Crews to Help Restore Expected Power Outages Following Hurricane Milton

THE Lansing Board of Water & Light (BWL) sent employees to Florida this morning, Wednesday, October 9 to help restore power following expected widespread damage from Hurricane Milton.

“This week is Public Power Week, and sending crews to help is exactly what it means to be a public power utility. It means communities helping communities, and we’re proud to answer this call for mutual aid,” said BWL General Manager Dick Peffley. “We understand the importance of needing to get power back following a major storm, and our BWL team is ready to safely get to work where it’s needed most.”

BWL sent eight employ-

ees to Orlando, Florida – two 3-person line crews and one 2-person tree crew to help with restorations. BWL crews will join a nationally coordinated effort alongside other utility companies to rebuild critical infrastructure and restore power to affected areas.

“The resilience of our team and all utility workers is a testament to the strength of our industry and the commitment to helping communities recover following major natural disasters,” said Peffley.

The BWL has approximately 100,000 electric customers, 58,000 water customers, 156 steam customers and 19 chilled water customers. For more information about the BWL’s energy portfolio, visit www.lbwl.com.

Spadafore Introduces Resolution to Keep Library Downtown

LANSING , MI – Lansing City Council Member Peter Spadafore today introduced a resolution opposing the potential relocation of the downtown Capital Area District Library (CADL) from its current location. Highlighting the importance of the library as a vital resource for Lansing residents, Spadafore’s resolution urges the CADL board and leadership to explore alternatives that prioritize public access, community welfare, and equity.

“The downtown library is more than just a building—it’s a community hub that provides essential services, especially our most vulnerable neighbors,” said Spadafore. “For students, seniors, and residents without reliable transportation, CADL is their connection to education, literacy, and opportunity. Moving it out of downtown would create

unnecessary barriers for the very people who rely on it most.”

Underscored the unique importance of the library’s central location, citing

its accessibility and its role in serving Lansing’s diverse population. “Lansing’s downtown library has been a pillar of the community for decades. It

serves as a lifeline for underserved residents and strengthens our city's identity by offering a space for learning, growth, and connection,” he noted.

In addition to emphasizing the community impact, Spadafore is calling for further dialogue with the CADL board and local stakeholders to explore alternatives to relocation.

“We need solutions that ensure CADL remains a vital resource for all Lansing residents, regardless of where they live,” Spadafore said. “I’m committed to working with the library's leadership and the broader community to find a path forward that preserves this essential service in downtown.”

The Lansing City Council is expected to vote on the resolution on October 14 at its regularly scheduled meeting.

Courtesy Photo-BWL employees headed to Orlando, Florida – two 3-person line crews and one 2-person tree crew to help with restorations after hurricane Milton.

Holiday Food & Essentials Drive to Support 600 Families This Season

The

Community Catalyst

Teams

Up with Local Organizations to Spread Holiday Cheer

LANSING , MI — The Community Catalyst and Chronicle Media Group, in collaboration with Eastside Fish Fry, Believe Family Outreach, and Fortuo, are proud to announce the 2024 Holiday Food & Essentials Distribution. This initiative aims to provide food, essential supplies, and winter clothing to over 600 families during the holiday season.

Event Details

 Date: December 21, 2024

 Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

 Distribution Locations:

 Eastside Fish Fry – 2417 East Kalamazoo Street, Lansing, MI 48912

 Fortuo – 4924 S Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Lansing, MI 48910 What We’re Collecting To make this event a success, we’re reaching out to the community to contribute:

 Food Items: Non-perishable items such as canned goods, pasta, rice, and beans. (Drop-off location: Eastside Fish Fry)

 Essentials: Hygiene products like soap, toothpaste, diapers, and winter clothing (hats, gloves, scarves, coats). (Drop-off location: Transformation GEMS, 3333 S. Pennsylvania Ave, Lansing, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

 Toys: New or gently used toys for children of all ages.

 Monetary Donations: Every dollar helps us purchase additional items for those in need.

How You Can Get Involved

 Donate: Drop off items at our collection points prior to the event on December 21st.

 Volunteer: Join us at the event to distribute food, essentials, and toys to families in need.

 Share: Spread the word by sharing this event with your friends and family on social media.

“We believe that together, we can make a significant impact this holiday season. Whether you donate, volunteer, or help us spread the word, your contribution will ensure no family goes without food, warmth, or holiday joy,” says Yanice Yvette, Founder & Executive Director of The Community Catalyst.

For more information, please contact us:

 Website: www.lansingcatalyst.org

 Phone: 517-235-6340

 Email: info@lansingcatalyst.org

 Instagram: @communitycatalyst17 About The Community Catalyst: The Community Catalyst is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering communities through collaboration and support. By working with local partners, we strive to uplift individuals and families through meaningful community initiatives.

Together, we can bring joy and relief to families in need this holiday season. We hope to see you there!

New Hope Community Center Announces Expansion of Shelter Services

AFTER months of planning, Holy Cross Services (HCS) and the City of Lansing have finalized a multi-phase expansion agreement to add an additional 70 beds to help support Lansing’s unhoused population. HCS’s homelessness services are headquartered out of the New Hope Community Center (NHCC) at the corner of North Larch and Shiawassee streets in Downtown Lansing. NHCC operates as the Capital Area’s largest low-barrier homeless shelter for overnight stay, includes a daytime area and provides a community kitchen. The City of Lansing is granting HCS $800,000 to fund the expansion and provide services to unsheltered Lansing residents.

HCS President and CEO Ryan Kunzelman commented on the New Hope expansion, saying, “Holy Cross Services is committed to providing a sus-

tainable solution to address the needs of individuals and families experiencing homelessness, especially during the cold winter months.” He also added, “We are prepared to move forward with both short and long-term implementation of this program, thanks to the sup-

port from the City of Lansing.”

“Lansing is working on all options to provide shelter and housing for those of need and on the streets in our city. We are excited to work with Holy Cross to expand the number of beds that they can offer to the unhoused, especially as

we are going into the winter. We have limited resources, and this expansion is a necessary piece of the puzzle towards stabilizing those on the streets in need of housing. This course of action will help build capacity for those in need now and set the stage for more multipronged assistance into the future,” stated Mayor Andy Schor.

The construction process will be executed to ensure that beds are ready for the community before winter. HCS will oversee a light internal ground floor renovation this fall to help remedythe immediate needs. Simultaneously, HCS will initiate renovation of the current NHCC Day Center and office spaces.

Miss USA Alma Cooper to Participate in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon

Alma Cooper, who was crowned Miss USA in August, is set to participate in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday, October 13, 2024.

Alma Cooper, who was crowned Miss USA in August, is set to participate in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday, October 13, 2024. She is running to support Apna Ghar, a non-profit organization dedicated to ending gender violence.

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is one of the world’s largest and most prestigious marathons, attracting over 48,000 runners from around the globe.

This year, the marathon will guide participants through 29 of Chicago’s neighborhoods, offering an up-close experience of the city’s architecture and culture. Starting and finishing in Grant Park, the race takes runners across six of the Chicago River’s bridges, exploring both the north and south sides of Chicago.

If you want to get to know Miss

USA Alma Cooper before she arrives in Chicago, here are three things that may surprise you.

1. From Miss Michigan USA to Miss USA

Alma Cooper was named Miss USA on August 4, 2024 at the Peacock The-

Festival of Praise

Join us on October 12, 2024, for an unforgettable night of worship and celebration! Doors open at 5 PM, and the event starts at 5:30 PM at Tabernacle of David (2645 W. Holmes Rd, Lansing, MI 48911).

Hosted by our emcee Evan Lauchie, this powerful evening features performances from local favorite Walk in Truth Ministries Praise Team. Glenda Williams will be in the house with special guest Meaghan Williams McNeal.

And don’t miss our headliner, Stellar Nominated and Sunday Best Winner Geoffrey Golden!

This is an event you won’t want to miss. Bring your friends and family for a night filled with inspiration and praise! Free will offering to be taken. But BEST OF ALL THE EVENT IS FREE!!!

For more details, visit https://www.facebook.com/share/E52dW1YH7JbHgX1F/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Or Call 517-281-1894

ater in Los Angeles, succeeding Savannah Gankiewicz from Hawaii. This is the first time in 14 years that someone from Michigan has won the title since Rima Fakih. Cooper is set to compete in the Miss Universe competition in Mexico in November.

2. Pursuing Advanced Studies

at Stanford

Cooper is currently pursuing a master’s degree in statistics (data science track) at Stanford University’s School of Humanities and Sciences. As a Knight-Hennessy Scholar, she is enhancing her leadership skills while furthering research on diet and food insecurity at the Stanford Nutrition Studies Research Group.

3. West Point Graduate and Researcher

A top graduate from West Point, Alma was responsible for the accountability of 4,400 cadets during emergency and crisis scenarios. Motivated by her family’s experiences with poverty and food insecurity as migrant workers, she began researching the relationship between U.S. nutrition, health, and the Army’s recruitment crisis. Her undergraduate thesis on body-mass index and its implications on the Army’s recruiting goals was published in Military Medicine during her senior year.

Photo credit: Miss USA Alma Cooper via Instagram

Emily Dievendorf believes in a democracy that lifts up our underrepresented and underserved communities, ensuring that their needs are met and their rights protected. Together, we can build a brighter, more equitable future.

What are Emily Dievendorf’s Priorities?

Ending Violence in Our Communities

What are Emily Dievendorf’s Priorities?

Ending Violence in Our Communities

Supporting Public Education

Ending Violence in Our Communities

Racial Equity and Justice

Supporting Public Education

Living Wage

Racial Equity and Justice

Housing Accessibility and Retention

Living Wage

Urban/Rural Agriculture and Land Renewal

Housing Accessibility and Retention

Urban/Rural Agriculture and Land Renewal

Voter Protection/Voting Access Investment in Community Mental Health

Urban/Rural Agriculture and Land Renewal

Voter Protection/Voting Access Investment in Community Mental Health