CONNECTING COMMUNITIES
The Chronicle
Every comeback story has a turning point—and for Lansing entrepreneur Tammara, that moment came after she lost everything she thought defined her. But what she found in the process was something far more powerful: purpose, perseverance, and a second chance.
Tammara is no stranger to Lansing’s food scene. Many will remember her as the face behind Smoothie Queen, a
Connecting Communities
The Chronicle News Small Business SpotlightBonita Mitchell | Thread of Hope Records
BENTON HARBOR, MI — In a world where mental health struggles are increasingly prevalent, a new voice emerges with a message of healing and hope. Bonita Mitchell, recording artist and founder of Thread of Hope Records, is making a significant impact with her latest single, “Let This Mind Be In Me,” a spiritually charged anthem inspired by Philippians 2:5.
Rooted in the scripture’s call to “let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus,” the song encourages listeners to surrender anxiety, depression, and internal battles to the transformative peace of God. With lyrics emphasizing humility, compassion, and spiritual clarity, Mitchell offers a deeply personal and timely message: mental and emotional healing
begins with adopting the mind of Christ.
“We are seeing so much pain—both in the church and out in the community—stemming from mental health challenges,” says Mitchell. “But we know that by embracing the mind of Christ, there is healing, restoration, and peace. This song is a reminder that God’s transformative power is still available, and we can have victory over the thoughts that try to tear us down.”
Released on September 25, 2024, across all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, “Let This Mind Be In Me” has resonated with audiences na-
popular smoothie brand once located inside the Allen Neighborhood Center. With no formal training but a whole lot of heart, she built a loyal following with her vibrant, dairy-free creations.
“I was just a first-time business owner with a deep passion
Courtesy Photo-Bonita Mitchell, founder of Thread of Hope Records and recording artist behind the powerful new single “Let This Mind Be In Me.” A First Lady, entrepreneur, and advocate for mental health awareness, Mitchell uses music to inspire healing and hope.
The Legacy of Dr. Mar tin Luther King Jr
Black History
The Chronicle Tribute George Foreman: A Champion of Resilience and Change
George Foreman, an iconic figure in the world of boxing, is remembered not only for his athletic dominance but for his extraordinary journey of transformation, redemption, and impact. Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, Foreman’s life story is a profound testament to perseverance and purpose—making him a towering figure in Black history and beyond.
Early Life and Challenges
Raised in a low-income neighborhood, Foreman faced the harsh realities of poverty and racial inequality early on. As a troubled youth, he often found himself in difficult circumstances. But everything began to change when he joined the Job Corps, where he trained under professional boxing coaches who saw his raw talent and relentless energy.
Rise to Prominence
Foreman burst onto the national stage after winning a gold medal in the heavyweight division at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City. Known for his fearsome punching power and unrelenting style, he quickly rose through the professional boxing ranks. In 1973, he became the World Heavyweight Champion, defeating Joe Frazier in a stunning upset.
One of the most defining moments of his early career came in 1974, when he faced Muhammad Ali in the legendary “Rumble in the Jungle” in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo). Though he was defeated, the match became a pivotal moment in both his life and the cultural history of the sport.
Transformation and Redemption
After retiring in 1977, Foreman underwent a profound personal transformation, becoming a born-again Christian and dedicating his life to ministry. A decade later, in one of the most improbable sports comebacks of all time, Foreman returned to the ring.
In 1994, at age 45, he stunned the world by reclaiming the heavyweight title, becoming the oldest world champion in boxing history. His comeback inspired millions, showing that faith, discipline, and resilience
can defy the odds.
Beyond the Ring: Business & Philanthropy
Foreman’s second act was just as powerful as his first. He became a beloved entrepreneur and television personality, most famously with the George Foreman Grill, which sold over 100 million units and became a cultural staple.
More importantly, Foreman used his platform to give back. He invested in youth centers, ministry work, and community empowerment—always carrying the same sincerity and strength he showed in the ring.
Legacy and Impact
George Foreman’s legacy reaches far beyond boxing. He is a symbol of resilience, redemption, and reinvention—a man who not only rose to greatness but did so with humility and grace.
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To the Black community and the world at large, Foreman’s life story echoes the broader narrative of struggle, transformation, and triumph. His journey reminds us that our past does not define our future—and that true greatness lies in the courage to change, give back, and inspire.
George Foreman — Icon of Boxing, Business, and Philanthropy. tribute image generated with AI by The Chronicle News.
More Than a Game: Desmond Ferguson, Moneyball Sportswear, and a Legacy of Giving Back
BY YANICE YVETTE JACKSON
| THE CHRONICLE NEWS
On a bright spring morning in Lansing, my son Liam and I had the pleasure of attending the very first Breakfast of Champions, hosted by Moneyball Sportswear through the Desmond Ferguson Foundation. As we entered the space, filled with the aroma of good food and the energy of familiar faces and new connections, it became instantly clear—this wasn’t just breakfast. This was community in action.
The event was a celebration of leadership, togetherness, and empowerment. It brought neighbors, mentors, athletes, and youth together to share stories, fellowship, and inspiration. This moment of pause felt sacred in a city that sometimes moves quickly. Community came first, and so did connection. At the heart of it all stood Desmond Ferguson, a Lansing native and retired professional basketball player, now a proud business owner and community builder.
From the Hardwood to the Heart of Lansing
Ferguson is a product of Everett High School, a star who took his talents from the streets of Lansing to the courts of the University of Detroit Mercy, the NBA, and overseas arenas. His career included time with the Portland Trail Blazers, and after eleven years of pro
basketball, he made a powerful decision—to come back home.
Returning to Lansing, Desmond took on the role of head coach at Everett, helping reignite a legacy of excellence in student-athletes. But his mission didn’t stop at the buzzer. He launched Moneyball Sportswear in 2002—a now-iconic brand that began with custom uniforms and has since
grown into a full-scale lifestyle apparel company. “Grow with us,” the brand says. It’s more than a slogan—it’s a philosophy.
The Desmond Ferguson Foundation: Impact Through Action
Desmond’s heart for the community beats just as strong off the court. Through the Desmond Ferguson Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, he’s creating a new blueprint for how sports, wellness, and education can converge to empower future leaders.
From free basketball clinics to mentorship and financial literacy programming, the foundation teaches essential life values like discipline, self-esteem, teamwork, nutrition, and leadership. Its mission is to prepare young people for success, not just in sports, but in life. The foundation also reinvests every dollar raised directly into community resources and pro-
LCC Supports Apprenticeships at the Lansing Fire Department
In 2023, Lansing Community College developed a program to provide tuition for 25 Emergency Medical Services apprentices with the Lansing Fire Department (LFD). The apprentices included 14 first responders, nine fire medics, and two paramedics. These innovative, high-quality apprenticeships helped address a critical shortage of emergency healthcare workers in mid-Michigan. Careers in emergency medical fields tend to provide stable, largely recession-proof careers with room for advanced training and promotion to higher levels of responsibility.
Emergency medical service jobs were a natural fit for these apprenticeships since the career pathways benefit from a combination of mentorship, on-the-job training and classroom instruction. However, a challenge to overcome was the initial apprehension some healthcare employers felt at the idea of applying this training model in their various fields. To address this reluctance, it was important to illustrate how apprenticeships can act as a career ladder for employees
while benefiting employers through higher employee retention.
Employees who complete a U.S. Department of Labor apprenticeship tend to have greater retention on the job because, unlike in most internships, employers make an investment in the training and upskilling of their apprentices. Apprenticeships have structured training plans that guide the apprentice through the
program. Mentorship is a key differentiator between apprenticeships and other work-based learning models, as is the employer’s fiscal contribution to the employee’s training.
Funding for these apprenticeships is provided by a U.S. Department of Labor Strengthening Community College Grant, funding designed to build “the capacity of community colleges to collaborate with employers and the public workforce development system to meet local and regional labor market demand for a skilled workforce.” Additional funding was coordinated through Capitol Area Michigan Works and the Workforce Development Institute. This strategic approach to developing robust workforce pipelines through meeting the needs of our community partners will contribute to the welfare and safety of our community and the Capital Region for years to come.
To learn more about apprenticeships at LCC, visit lcc.edu/apprenticeship. To learn more about LCC, or to register for classes, visit lcc.edu/register.
Photo Credit-Yanice Jackson-The first of many Breakfast of Champions Hosted by The Desmond Ferguson Foundation.
Black Violin: A Fusion of Classical and Hip-HopA Must-See Performance at the Wharton Center
EAST LANSING, MI — Black Violin, the groundbreaking duo known for blending classical music with hip-hop beats, will take the stage at Wharton Center for one night only on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Tickets are available online at whartoncenter.com, by calling 517.432.2000 or 1.800.WHARTON, or in person at the Wharton Center Ticket Office.
Composed of Wil Baptiste (viola) and Kev Marcus (violin), Black Violin has captivated audiences around the globe with their unique, high-energy performances. The pair first met in orchestra class at Dillard High School of the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Classically trained musicians with a love for hip-hop, they fused both genres to create a signature sound that challenges expectations and breaks down musical boundaries.
Since then, Black Violin has performed at the Billboard Music Awards and collaborated with major artists in-
cluding Linkin Park, Wu-Tang Clan, Alessia Cara, 2 Chainz, and Lil Wayne. They’ve made appearances on the To-
day Show, CBS Mornings, and PBS NewsHour, and performed with the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center in commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. Their album Take the Stairs earned a Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album in 2020.
Beyond the stage, Baptiste and Marcus are deeply committed to community impact. Through national programs like Turnaround Arts, they reach over 100,000 students each year—especially in low-income and Title 1 schools—offering free performances, workshops, and mentorship. In 2019, they launched the Black Violin Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to providing access to high-quality music education and inspiring creativity in the next generation of young artists.
Greater Lansing Celebrates April as Autism Awareness Month
Plan Your Trip to the Most Sensory-friendly City in Michigan!
LANSING, Mich .— The Greater Lansing region prides itself on being a welcoming community and it is our goal to provide the best experience to all guests that visit. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 44 children are diagnosed on the autism spectrum. Therefore, in 2017 the Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau began a collaboration with regional attractions to provide a supportive and welcoming environment for those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental disabilities, sensory processing disorder, and other neuro-diverse individuals and their families. Multiple attractions have joined the partnership including Impression 5 Science Center, Celebration Cinema, NCG Cinema, MSU’s Abrams Planetarium, MSU Museum, Potter Park Zoo, Michigan History Center, State Capitol Building, Lansing Art Gallery & Education Center, the Lansing Lugnuts, Preuss
Pets and Wharton Center for Performing Arts.
The GLCVB has supported Xavier DeGroat, an autism awareness advocate who has created the Xavier DeGroat Autism Foundation and in February of 2022 opened the Autism History Museum in the Meridian Mall. The museum, the first of its kind, offers a timeline of the awareness of autism and celebrates prominent figures who live with ASD. DeGroat’s Foundation will help counsel, rehabilitate, and provide financial guidance to local individuals with autism.
Additionally, the GLCVB has partnered with the Mid-Michigan Autism Association (MMAA), Residential Options, Inc. (ROI) and Michigan State University (MSU) to facilitate local trainings for front line hospitality staff, in order to further enhance the visitor experience for people on the autism spectrum and their families. Over 1,400 individuals have undergone the training to better meet the needs of our neuro-diverse guests.
“The Greater Lansing community takes great pride in having numerous offerings tailored to the growing num-
ber of neuro-diverse guests and their families,” said Julie Pingston, President and CEO. “It is our hope to continue to develop and conduct ASD training for our hospitality partners and encourage sensory-friendly activities by our attractions.”
The Greater Lansing community will be celebrating Autism Awareness Month this April with the following sensory-friendly activities as well as a robust calendar of sensory-friendly programming throughout the year.
For a complete schedule of ongoing sensory-friendly activities and attractions, including information on restaurants and virtual tours of over 50 area locations produced by AbleEyes, please visit https://www.lansing.org/things-todo/sensoryfriendly/.
The vision of the GLCVB is to inspire everyone to celebrate and love Greater Lansing as much as we do! Which goes hand in hand with our mission, to positively impact our community’s quality of life by developing the region as a visitor destination.
Photo Credit-Rachel Bennett Photography- Grammy-nominated duo Black Violin Wil Baptiste and Kev Marcus
LCC Jazz Band Performs with Transcendence Performing Arts Center Featuring Candace N. Potts
LANSING, Mich. — The LCC Jazz Band, led by Jonathon Gewirtz, will present a concert in collaboration with the Transcendence Performing Arts Center (TPAC) on April 11 from 7-9 p.m. The concert will take place at The University Club, 3435 Forest Rd, Lansing, MI. Admission to this event is $20, and tickets will be sold at the venue beginning at 6:30 p.m. Seating is limited to 100 seats. This special event will help raise funds for the TPAC, providing performing arts possibilities to those underrepresented in the Greater Lansing Community with music, dance, and theatre instruction. Money raised will help provide free lessons to youth, help expand programs, and increase opportunities for community engagement.
The concert will feature Candace N. Potts, Executive Director of Vocal
Studies at TPAC. Potts, a native of Baltimore, MD and graduate of Morgan State University, is a singer, songwriter, arranger, and educator. From
opera to Broadway musicals, Potts has performed extensively in the United States, including at The Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall, and has also performed around the globe, including in China, Russia, South America, Brazil, Italy, Jamaica, Prague, and the Czech Republic.
Attendees will enjoy the big-band stylings of a variety of jazz standards including Summertime by George Gershwin, Fly Me to the Moon by Count Basie and Frank Sinatra, and Night and Day by Cole Porter, among others. A cash bar and light appetizers will be available.
To learn more about TPAC, visit their website: www.tpacworldwide.org
For more information on performing arts at LCC: www.lcc.edu/showinfo
tionwide. Its powerful music video visually portrays the internal struggle between light and darkness, adding depth to the message of surrender and spiritual resilience.YouTube+2Spotify+2Apple Music - Web Player+2
Mitchell’s passion for addressing mental health within faith communities stems from both her personal experi-
ences and ministry work. A First Lady, entrepreneur, and former stylist for music legend Stevie Wonder, Mitchell is known for merging real-life experiences with divine truth in her songwriting. Through Thread of Hope Records, she amplifies the need for open conversations around depression, emotional well-being, and healing within church-
es and communities alike.
In a recent interview on The Sunday Chronicle, Mitchell discussed her journey, the inspiration behind her music, and her commitment to using art to boost confidence in young people. The full interview is available here:
For interviews, booking inquiries, or media appearances, contact: Bonita
Mitchell: info@bonitamitchell.com, www.bonitamitchell.com, Social Media: @bonitamacmitch | @songblesser | @BonitaMitchellMusic
Bonita Mitchell’s voice is more than a sound—it’s a call to healing. With “Let This Mind Be In Me,” she offers not just a song, but a movement for mental and spiritual restoration.
and a delicious product,” she recalls. “People loved what I was making.” But passion alone wasn’t enough. Without the infrastructure and support to keep the business sustainable, Smoothie Queen eventually closed. And with it, a dream came crashing down."
“That failure crushed me,” she says. “I felt like I had lost not just my business, but also my identity and sense of purpose.”
In search of healing, Tammara moved to Chicago in 2023, telling herself she was done with the food industry for good. But the spark never fully faded. She found herself attending food
festivals, feeling the familiar pull of entrepreneurship. The dream still lived within her—and as it turned out, Lansing wasn’t done with her either.
“Even while I was gone, I kept getting messages from people in Lansing asking me to bring Smoothie Queen back. That love never stopped.”
After time away and a complete reinvention, Tammara is back with a new name, vision, and renewed determination.
Introducing Smoothies n’ Stax: a fresh, pop-up style concept featuring the same beloved dairy-free smoothies Lansing fell in love with—plus new,
customizable mini pancake and waffle stacks. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious smoothie or a comforting breakfast bite, Smoothies n’ Stax is where health meets flavor, with a side of joy.
“This time, I’m doing it differently,” Tammara says with confidence. “I’ve written a 23-page business plan. I know my numbers. I have my branding strategy in place. And I’ve built a network of mentors who are helping guide me through this process.”
“This isn’t just a story about smoothies,” Tammara says. “It’s about resilience. About listening to God’s calling. About stepping back into purpose and letting community
uplift you when you need it most.”
At The Chronicle, we’re proud to stand behind entrepreneurs like Tammara—those who dare to dream again. We encourage our readers to support her relaunch, whether through donations, shares, or simply cheering her on.
Let’s help build something beautiful—together.
Support her GoFundMe campaign:https://gofund.me/cb444ce9 Connect & Follow:
Instagram: @smoothiesnstax
Facebook: Smoothie Queen Lansing
Email: smoothiequeenlansing@gmail. com
BONITA MITCHELL
TAMMARA MCCOLLUM
Photo Credit-Kevin Fowler
YOU
WE CARE FOR YOUR HEART
Your family counts on you every day. That’s why McLaren is here to help you prioritize your heart health. From advanced diagnostics to the latest surgical procedures, our cardiovascular specialists offer everything you need to keep your heart strong—for yourself and for those who depend on you most.
Your family counts on you every day. That’s why McLaren is here to help you prioritize your heart health. From advanced diagnostics to the latest surgical procedures, our cardiovascular specialists offer everything you need to keep your heart strong—for yourself and for those who depend on you most.
mclaren.org/lansingheart
mclaren.org/lansingheart
Music can have a profound impact on someone’s well-being and has been shown to reduce stress, bring heart rates down, and even control breathing. At McLaren Greater Lansing, a healing environment is fostered through their therapeutic music program led by Drs. Melissa Straus and Tess Miller, to promote recovery and well-being.
“We recently hit a milestone of providing therapeutic music here at McLaren for 10 years now, and it’s been an exciting journey to be able to come in and play for patients and have a positive impact towards their healing,” said Dr. Miller, who plays the flute and ukulele and also sings during her sessions.
performing at various events at McLaren including leading meditation sessions for leadership and staff.
Drs. Straus and Miller typically visit McLaren Greater Lansing two to three times a week and play mainly at a patient’s bedside, but you can also see them performing in the lobbies of the hospital and Karmanos Cancer Institute for staff and visitors, along with
“This service is really beneficial for everyone and can create a wonderful healing environment,” said Dr. Straus, who plays the bass and sings. “The hospital setting can be very
Courtesy Photo-Therapeutic Music Program at McLaren Greater Lansing
Makayla’s Voice: A Remarkable Journey to Debut on Netflix
The Chronicle News is honored to spotlight the inspiring story of a young woman who is breaking barriers and touching lives worldwide. We invite you to watch the premiere of the short documentary Makayla’s Voice: A Letter to the World, a moving 24-minute film showcasing the incredible journey of Makayla Renee Cain. This extraordinary non-verbal teenager’s story will debut internationally on Netflix on Wednesday, December 11, 2024.
Makayla, who turned 17 on December 4, 2024, has faced profound challenges since her birth. In the heartwarming short documentary, Makayla’s Voice: A Letter to the World, we are introduced to a remarkable young girl whose spirit and determination defy all expectations. Makayla, a black teenage girl, has spent her life grappling with a rare form of autism that renders her essentially nonverbal. However, her parents, filled with unwavering belief in their daughter's potential, embarked on a transformative journey to discover the true depth of Makayla's inner world. Directed by Julio Palacio, the film runs for 25 minutes.
Diagnosed with autism and unable to speak, her world began to transform at age 14 when she learned to spell using an ABC Letter Board. This simple yet powerful tool unlocked her ability to
communicate her thoughts and emotions, opening the door to remarkable progress in her social and intellectual development.
Her parents, Khari "Needlz" Cain and Manana Cain, have walked this journey alongside Makayla every step of the way. While Khari is a Grammy-winning music producer, known for his work with artists like Drake, Bruno Mars, and Cardi B, he and Manana have faced the everyday realities of raising a non-verbal child with grace and determination. Together, they have tirelessly sought specialized therapies, clinicians, and resources to ensure that Makayla—and all non-verbal children—have access to tools that unlock their potential. Their joint effort reflects an unwavering commitment to their daughter’s growth and wellbeing.
This shared dedication led to the creation of Makayla’s Voice, a foundation devoted to empowering non-verbal communicators and their families. With a mission to provide safe, supportive spaces and resources, the foundation offers therapeutic programs, grants, and community outreach initiatives. Central to its mission is promoting letter boarding as a transformative tool for communication. Through its Atlanta-based center, the foundation works to improve the lives of children and young adults under 22, helping them connect meaningfully with the world.
Makayla’s remarkable journey captured the attention of award-winning filmmaker Julio Palacio, who worked closely with her parents to produce this heartfelt documentary. Supported by her siblings, Amani and Nasir, and guided by the unwavering dedication of both her parents, Makayla’s Voice: A Letter to the World has become a powerful testament to love, resilience, and advocacy. The documentary has already earned top honors at prestigious festivals such as the Atlanta Film Festival, Slamdance Film Festival, and the New York Tribeca Film Festival. It is also on track to contend for an Academy Award nomination in March 2025.
Adding another layer to Makayla’s story is her grandmother, Dr. Maxine Hankins Cain, who offers a deeply personal perspective in her book, When Makayla Smiles.
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The Chronicle News Small Business SpotlightMeika’s Boutique N More; New Location, Same Excellence
LANSING, MI — The city is buzzing with excitement as local entrepreneur Shemeika Barney reintroduces her thriving dual businesses, Meika’s Boutique N More and Exclusive Travel N More, at a brand-new location that brings fashion and travel together under one roof. Nestled in the Holmes Plaza near Kroger, the businesses offer a uniquely curated experience for Lansing residents and beyond.
Since its founding on May 1, 2017, Meika’s Boutique N More has served as a trusted destination for upscale fashion in Lansing.
The boutique specializes in women’s petite to plus-size fashion, men’s clothing up to 5X, and accessories that speak to individuality and elegance. Known for its VIP private shopping experience, Meika’s offers one-on-one fashion consultations, free local delivery, and curbside pickup.
“We believe in helping our customers build confidence through fashion,” says Barney. “It’s not just about clothes—it’s about how you feel when you wear them.”
From Stacy Adams shoes and Silver Silk menswear to date night looks, vacation wear, and business
casual options, the boutique caters to a diverse clientele. Meika’s has also recently unveiled their new “After Hours Collection Room”, an adult boutique space offering a private, elevated shopping experience for those 21 and up.
Located right next door is Exclusive Travel N More, your onestop shop for domestic and international travel planning. Whether you are dreaming of a luxury
Bootstrapping Business – How to Start a Business That Benefits Your Community
Chronicle News Stock Photo-Image via Pexels
For millions of Americans, the ultimate dream means starting their own small business, especially one that is integrated and beneficial to their local communities. Pulling yourself up by your bootstraps is more possible than ever, especially if you use tools like loans, community polls, and more to determine which type of business you should start.
The Chronicle News breaks down how you can start a business that benefits your community.
Why Start a Small Business?
In short: because it provides benefits to you and your community! Starting a small business:
● Brings commerce back to your hometown, as opposed to putting money in the pockets of big corporations
● Gives you a reliable source of in-
come
● Gives you something to be proud of aside from working for another person or company
Plus, many people want to start small businesses to pursue their lifelong dreams. Ultimately, starting a small business is the American dream for these reasons and more. There’s no reason why you can’t follow that dream in your local community starting today!
Getting Things Going
No matter the type of business you wish to start, you first need a business plan and an idea. With that in mind, draw up a quick list of all the business ideas that sound thrilling to you based on your personality, skills, and desires. Examples of small business ideas include:
● Restaurants
● Auto mechanic shops
● Stores
● Theaters
● Farms
● Breweries
When you come up with your core business idea, be sure to draw up a business plan. A business plan will be necessary if you wish to acquire financing such as a loan from a bank or credit union. It'll also ensure that you stay on track as you get your business off the ground.
Get a Degree (Optional)
Not sure whether you have what it takes to launch a successful business?
Or do you want to acquire a couple of hard skills you can leverage to break into a particularly competitive niche in your area?
In both of these cases and more, you can set yourself up for success by going back to school and get-
ting a degree
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Exploring the Impact of Women's History Month: Recognizing the Achievements of Remarkable Women
BY JUDGE WANDA STOKES
30TH DISTRICT CIRCUIT COURT
March is designated as Women’s History Month to honor the significant contributions and achievements of women throughout history. This celebration originated from International Women’s Day, first observed on March 8, 1911, following advocacy by Clara Zetkin at the 1910 International Conference of Working Women. The United States expanded this recognition in 1980 with National Women’s History Week, which Congress officially extended to a month in 1987.
The choice of March is symbolic, aligning with historical milestones such as the 1857 garment workers’ strike in New York City and International Women’s Day. It serves as a time to reflect on women’s roles in advancing equality, from suffragists like Elizabeth Cady Stanton to modern leaders in education, politics, and science.
This year’s theme, “Moving Forward Together! Women Education & Inspiring Generations,” emphasizes the role of women as educators and mentors, shaping future generations for a more equitable society. Writing about these contributions can inspire readers to recognize women’s enduring impact across all sectors.
It is the hard work of many talented, dedicated, and fine women that paved the way for me to be the first African American to be appointed as Chief of Staff for the Michigan Attorney General’s Office.
Many women from Lansing, Ingham County, and Michigan have demonstrated leadership, bravery and made notable achievements in all professions and walks of life. Highlighting a few of these women’s achievements can inspire our collective community
Michelle Massey, vice president of community outreach and customer operations at TechSmith, has over 25 years of information technology experience. She is responsible for growing the company's philanthropic impact in K-12 education and engagement in STEM fields for underrepresented communities.
Cindy Kanga: a lifelong Lansing resident, has experience in nonprofit development, marketing, and community relations. She currently works at the Capital Area Manufacturing Council, focusing on bringing awareness to the challenges and opportunities manufacturers face in the capital region.
Dr. Olivia Letts: The first African American teacher in Lansing Public Schools, she worked to desegregate the district and increase opportunities for teachers of color.
Marylou Olivarez Mason: Advocate for Hispanic rights, she was the first woman to lead the Michigan Commission on Spanish-Speaking Affairs.
Martha Strickland: The first woman to argue a case before the Michigan Supreme Court and an early advocate for women’s suffrage.
Hortense Canady: A civil rights champion who left a lasting impact on Lansing through her activism.
by showing how their efforts shaped history and continue to impact society today.
Mary Ellen Sheets founded "Two Men and a Truck," which grew from a family pickup truck into a worldwide moving company empire with franchises in 37 states, Canada, England, and Ireland. By 2014, the company had completed its 5,000,000th move.
Paula Cunningham became the first female president of Lansing Community College, successfully leading a millage increase and funding for five new buildings. She later became the
first female president and CEO of Capitol National Bank, guiding the bank through Michigan's worst recession in 70 years. Cunningham was also the first African American woman to chair the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce and first African American director of AARP Michigan. Induction into the Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame in 2013.
Lynn Griffor, as vice president of philanthropy for the McLaren Greater Lansing Foundation, successfully led a $10 million capital campaign to support McLaren's new health care campus.
Alexa Irene Canady: The first African American woman neurosurgeon in the U.S., with ties to Lansing.
Barbara Roberts Mason is a trailblazing figure in Michigan's history, known for her significant contributions to education, civil rights, and public service. She was the first African American woman in Michigan elected to statewide office in 1974. Served a record 24 years on Michigan's State Board of Education.
Instrumental in establishing the Of-
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Courtesy Photo-The Honorable Judge Wanda M. Stokes, Ingham County Circuit Court Judge, brings decades of legal experience in both public and private sectors. Appointed in 2018 and re-elected in 2020, she is also a dedicated community leader and proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
A Guide to Moving with Children Who Have Autism
BY CLAIRE BOUGH
Moving becomes a part of our lives at many different stages: When we move away from our parents, relocate for a job opportu-
nity, or find somewhere new to retire. No matter your circumstances, it can be a stressful process. And if you’re moving with a child with autism, it’s especially important to help relieve moving stress for both you and your kid.
It’s easier said than done but relocating with a child with autism — and limiting stress while doing so — is entirely possible if you prepare and plan ahead. It’s important to maintain as much of your normal routine as possible and to consider additional ways to help kids with autism while you’re moving. Maintaining normalcy will help you and your children adjust quickly to your new home so you can settle in and feel comfortable.
What is autism?
According to the advocacy site Autism Speaks, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) “refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication.”
Autism Parenting magazine reports that as of 2022, approximately 1 in 44 children is identified with autism. Most children are diagnosed after the age of 4 and boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed than girls.
Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning that there are many different subtypes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The way ASD manifests, and the subsequent challenges and strengths that come along with it can vary depending on the person.
So, the ways in which moving stress could impact your child may vary. This article outlines some best practices based on expert resources. But to truly prepare, you will need to consider your child’s triggers and previous experiences. We also recommend you discuss the impending move with medical professionals that you trust and who know your child.
The importance of routine in the lives of children with autism
One of the effects of autism is difficulty processing sensory information, according to Autism Speaks, which ultimately affects behavior. Through changes in their environment, children
with autism can easily experience sensory overload. Established routines are known to help prevent sensory overload by allowing children to expect predictable outcomes and relieve some of the chaos they might feel from too many changes, according to the Nebraska Autism Spectrum Disorders Network.
Maintaining as much of a routine as possible during your move will help your child feel more comfortable throughout such a big change.
How to prepare your child for an upcoming move
When moving with a child with autism, you can prepare them using consistent communication and positive reinforcement. As their routine changes leading up to the move, you can offer rewards for completing new tasks like packing. Allowing your child to adjust to the new behaviors that come with moving will help ease stress and anxiety.
5 ways you make a move easier for your child
1. Be proactive and talk to your child about change.
Try to provide your children with as much notice as possible to prepare for the move. Even if they may not understand why you’re moving right away, you should offer as much information as you can.
Let your children know the reason why you’re moving, whether it’s for a new job, to be closer to family, or to downsize. Let them ask questions so they can gain a better understanding of their own. Experts in autism from the May Institute agree that adjusting to a big change will require continual communication, time, and patience.
2. Create a calendar. Keep your child in the loop with your moving
Are You Struggling to Pay Your Bills?
Are You Struggling to Pay Your Bills?
Can Help!
Are You Struggling to Pay Your Bills?
Can Help!
Over a dozen local partners will host a Community Resource Fair to connect BWL residential customers and greater Lansing residents behind on bills to information on resources and financial assistance available to assist per available funding and eligibility.
Over a dozen local partners will host a Community Resource Fair to connect BWL residential customers and greater Lansing residents behind on bills to information on resources and financial assistance available to assist per available funding and eligibility.
Over a dozen local partners will host a Community Resource Fair to connect BWL residential customers and greater Lansing residents behind on bills to information on resources and financial assistance available to assist per available funding and eligibility.
This event is free and open to the public. No pre-registration is necessary.
This event is free and open to the public. No pre-registration is necessary.
For more information, visit www.lbwl.com/shutoffprotection.
This event is free and open to the public. No pre-registration is necessary.
For more information, visit www.lbwl.com/shutoffprotection.
For more information, visit www.lbwl.com/shutoffprotection. We Can Help!
Tuesday, April 1
Tuesday, April 1
2-6 p.m.
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