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From the Classrooms to Council Chambers

Dr. Nevárez Martínez brings substantial policy expertise to the campaign from her role as an assistant professor in MSU’s Urban and Regional Planning Program and as core faculty in Chicano/Latino Studies. With a Ph.D. from the University of California, Irvine, she specializes in housing precarity, homelessness, and the criminalization of poverty—research areas that resonate deeply with Lansing’s current urban challenges. 

“Growing up in migrant camps,” she reflects, “I understand firsthand the precarity and inequity many families face. Now, I want to help shape inclusive policies that address those challenges.” 

Dr. Nevárez Martínez’s work extends beyond the university. As founder of the HOPE (Housing, Organizing, Policy, and Equity) Housing Justice Lab at MSU, she leads interdisciplinary research aimed at dismantling structural barriers to housing access. She’s also lent her expertise to state agencies, like Michigan’s Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, on updating outdated migrant housing standards. 

Serving on the School Board

In September 2023, the Lansing School District Board of Education appointed Dr. Nevárez Martínez to fill a vacancy. Board leadership praised her policy expertise, passion for equity, and dedication to community—qualities she continues to exemplify in her current role as Secretary of the board. 

Her time on the board has strengthened her commitment to equity in schooling and demonstrated her capacity for governance and collaboration at the local level.

Endorsements and Electability

The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee recently endorsed Dr. Nevárez Martínez as part of its “pro-growth” slate. The chamber cited her expertise in urban planning, commitment to inclusive development, and ability to foster smart policy as key reasons for their backing. 

Campaign Message & Vision

In her campaign messaging, Dr. Nevárez Martínez emphasizes that City Council wields significant power over budgeting, land use, zoning, and development—areas that have direct effects on Lansing’s affordability and livability. She frames her dual identity as scholar and mother, a daughter of immigrants, as foundational to her mission: to uplift working families, renters, and young people who often feel sidelined in local politics. 

“I bring both lived experience and policy expertise,” she says. “When council votes on budgets or zoning changes, they must reflect the needs of neighborhoods, not just developers.” 

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CAMP Director Luis Garcia said the decision has left students, families, and staff deeply concerned.

“Well, the recruitment we primarily do is from Michigan, but also from feeder states like Florida, Texas, and California,” Garcia explained. “The bulk of our students come from Michigan. A lot of these families work here during the season and return south in the winter. That’s the connection to Michigan.”

Garcia emphasized that MSU’s support for farmworker students has long been central to its mission as a land-grant institution. “If you look at CAMP students or farmworker students, they’re the core of what Michigan State University is about. Our first reason for existing was agriculture,” he said.

Still, Garcia acknowledged that misconceptions about the term “migrant” complicate public understanding of the program. “When we say migrant, you and I understand that as people moving from one state to another following the crops. But the general public often assumes these are international students here illegally. In fact, in order to participate in CAMP, students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents,” he said.

Parents of current CAMP students have already expressed fears about the program’s future. “Some parents asked me if they should tell their daughter to pack her clothes and come home,” Garcia said. “I had to explain, no, MSU is covering this academic year. We’re looking at future years after this one.”

University officials confirmed that the administration has committed to funding CAMP for one year despite the budget cut, giving students security through the current academic cycle. Looking ahead, MSU is seeking community support to keep the program alive by accepting financial contributions to the Migrant Student Services Endowment Fund.

The program’s fate is now tied to shifting university priorities under new leadership. “As soon as the President (Trump) came in, it was clear he wanted things aligned with his way and his priorities. 

“We’re evidently not a priority,” Garcia said. “It’s really interesting because we’re talking about the people who help feed America. And to say they’re not a priority—I don’t understand that.”

Garcia said that while the university is exploring options to secure funding, outside support will be critical to keeping CAMP alive. “Any money we take in right now, people that want to donate, it’s really going for student support,” he said. “The ones that are going to survive are the ones that get institutional support. And I’ll be real clear with you: I plan on surviving here. We’re moving, we’re shaking every tree to see what we can do to get support.”

Despite the setback, Garcia remains optimistic that the community will rally around the program. “I think there are a lot of good people out there that understand what we do, they appreciate it, and are going to be supportive of this.”

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Kindel Natural Area is adjacent to the north border of Sleepy Hollow State Park on Taft Road in Clinton County, between St. Johns and Owosso. It is open year-round, sunrise to sunset. 

Paul and Judy Kindel, of Meridian Township, and their family owned and enjoyed the property since 1971, and now want others to enjoy it. Paul is a retired biochemistry professor at Michigan State University; Judy is a retired librarian of the East Lansing Public Schools.

“Kindel Natural Area is special to us as Paul is one of the Conservancy’s founders,” Jared Harmon, Mid-Michigan Land Conservancy executive director. “This extraordinary donation is the capstone of the more than two decades that Paul has worked tirelessly to help amass the more than 3,000 acres of land the Conservancy now protects from development in perpetuity.”

The preserve is two-thirds savanna-style terrain — a mixed woodland-grassland biome and ecosystem with trees widely spaced for an open canopy. The remaining property is forestland with some wetland. It is an ideal attraction for birds and mammals.

Harmon said, “By encouraging people to discover the beauty of natural, scenic, farm and recreational land we hope they will understand and support land preservation and environmental stewardship.”

Visitors are asked to stay on the mowed walking trails — about 1.5 miles — to protect the delicate flora and fauna and to prevent erosion. Dogs on 6-foot leashes are allowed. More information about the nature preserve, including directions and a map, is on the Conservancy website, www.midmilandcons.org/kindelfamilynaturalarea.

Under Conservancy ownership, Kindel Natural Area is protected from development in perpetuity, and its ecological function will continue to be improved. This includes removing invasive plant species to allow native species to flourish, which supports an increased number and a wider diversity of plants and animals.

A dedication ceremony in August recognized the Kindel family for their donation. 

Paul said, “It has been a nature haven for us, our two sons and daughter, and it was just 20 minutes from our home. We want to share the wonderful experience of connecting with nature on land that has not been developed and is near population centers.”

The donation also supports the Kindels’ belief in the worldwide initiative of protecting 30% of the world’s terrestrial, inland water, and coastal and marine areas by 2030, known as “30×30.” This initiative is based on evidence that far-reaching protections for the planet’s remaining forests, grasslands, wetlands, coastal marshes and other ecosystems are urgently needed to prevent further decline and extinction of plant and animal species and to stabilize the global climate for human habitation. 

Information about the Conservancy’s eight public nature preserves is at www.MidMiLandCons.org/public-nature-preserves.

About Mid-Michigan Land Conservancy 

Mid-Michigan Land Conservancy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit land protection organization established in 2002. The Conservancy protects natural, scenic, recreational and agricultural land from development in perpetuity and improves their ecological function. This is accomplished through establishment of conservation easements, fee-simple land ownership, educational initiatives, and partnerships with organizations. 

The Conservancy works with landowners and conservation partners in seven counties: Ionia, Clinton, Shiawassee, Eaton, Ingham, Jackson and Hillsdale. It has 21 conservation easements that protect about 2,500 acres of private land by permanently limiting use to maintain their conservation values. The Conservancy owns eight nature preserves, totaling more than 500 acres of land. All are open for the public to hike and explore. More information is at www.MidMiLandCons.org. 

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Buy Tickets HERE

Set for September 19 and 20, 2025, at 7 p.m. each evening, the rodeo will showcase the powerful legacy and modern-day impact of diverse voices in Western heritage. The family-friendly event is being presented by two Lansing-based nonprofits: Frankie’s Corner Little Thoroughbred Crusade, which uses equine-based activities to inspire youth, and the Dream Warriors Project, which focuses on developing successful young leaders.

Produced by Latting Rodeo Productions, a nationally respected organization with more than 50 years of experience, the event will feature top rodeo contestants from across the country, cultural and educational exhibits, live music, and interactive activities for all ages.

Organizers say the rodeo is about more than competition—it is also about honoring stories that are often overlooked in American history.

“The rodeo experience will not only educate youth about our rich Western heritage but also show them the many possibilities for their future in agriculture and equine,” said Jermo Reese, co-chair of the Michigan Heritage Rodeo and founder of Frankie’s Corner Little Thoroughbred Crusade.

The event will spotlight the contributions of Black, Indigenous, Latino, and other cowboys and cowgirls of color, recognizing their role in shaping both the past and future of rodeo and agriculture.

“This is more than a rodeo—it’s a movement,” said Janet E. Howard, co-chair of the Michigan Heritage Rodeo and executive director of the Dream Warriors Project. “We’re celebrating history, creating opportunity, and building a future where everyone sees themselves in the story of the American West.”

The Michigan Heritage Rodeo will also honor Desmond “Moneyball” Ferguson as the 2025 Grand Marshal. Organizers say the event has already drawn strong support from a wide cross-section of individuals and organizations across the state.

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LANSING – Basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson returned to his hometown recently to host the 2nd annual Earvin Johnson Sr. Community Car Show, a celebration dedicated to his late father and designed to bring the community together.

The event has quickly become one of Lansing’s signature gatherings, drawing nearly 220 classic and custom cars. More than just a showcase of chrome and horsepower, Johnson said the car show serves as a space for fellowship, free of politics and division.

“It’s about honoring my dad, giving back, and making sure our community feels united,” Johnson said on Facebook. “We want people to come here, have a good time, and know this is about trust, respect, and support.”

This year’s car show also supported a good cause, with proceeds benefiting three law enforcement organizations: MI C.O.P.S., Santa’s First Responders, and the Lansing First Responders Foundation. Johnson stressed the importance of building relationships with law enforcement, saying, “It’s all about trust, and you have to build trust with [law enforcement]. It’s so funny — you always frown until you need one, you know. Then you’re saying, ‘Thank you for keeping us safe.’”

Among those helping highlight the event was Mandale Dade, who partnered with Empire Motors to showcase some of the standout vehicles.

“I had a nice time at the 2nd annual Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson car show,” Dade said on Facebook. “It was a pleasure to work with Empire Motors to promote and showcase a couple of their coolest cars. I’m positive the ‘Black Mamba Hellcat,’ a.k.a. the Kobe car, was one of the most talked about vehicles in the show.”

Dade noted the event’s atmosphere of unity, adding that it brought together community members, local police agencies, dignitaries, and Lansing legends. He even crossed paths with another Spartan great.

“I was able to chat with Mr. Tom Izzo,” Dade said. “One thing about these guys coming to Lansing and doing community events like this is that they don’t have to, and it really means a lot to the community when they do.”

Community leaders such as Kenny Craig, a senior pastor and former police officer, praised the event for showing support to those who risk their lives to keep the city safe.

For Johnson, the car show was another way to keep his father’s legacy alive while strengthening bonds across Lansing.

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LANSING – The Lansing Sports Commission announced on June 6, 2025 it had hired Lindsay Fast to the team as Sports Services Manager.

 “Lindsay brings a great mix of professionalism, sports experience, and genuine hospitality to our team,” said Meghan Ziehmer, executive director of the Lansing Sports Commission. “Her passion for people and events will be a huge asset as we continue to elevate the athlete and visitor experience in Greater Lansing.”

Fast brings over six seasons of experience as Executive Secretary and Office Manager for the Michigan State University Hockey program, where she was instrumental in managing operations and coordinating high-profile events. She is known for her exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to create meaningful, memorable experiences.

 A proud Spartan, Fast earned her bachelor’s degree in marketing from Michigan State University. She and her husband, a former professional hockey player and current MSU Hockey Assistant Coach, had the unique opportunity to live abroad before returning to East Lansing in 2011.

In her new role, Fast will support the planning and execution of local sporting events and help drive operational excellence across the organization.

 For more information about the Lansing Sports Commission, visit www.lansingsports.org.

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Latino Caucus Chairman Angel Gomez organized the meeting and reviewed an online survey he created. The questionnaire is gathering input from Latinos in Saginaw and surrounding areas. Gomez, standing before the group in a green T-shirt, also laid out his vision for building Latino political power and increasing voter participation.

Community concerns about immigration and racial profiling were voiced by Alberto Teneyuque, who pointed to his own skin tone as an example. “Brown-skinned people are targeted by the current presidential administration and ICE,” he said. “This country needs Latinos and others being deported.”

Bobby DeLeon, president of the Mexican American Council, Inc., known in the community as “The MAC,”shared his motivation for supporting the Saginaw Democratic Party, calling these time as “critical to the survival of the Latino community, especially youth.”

Saginaw County Clerk Vanessa Guerra joined the discussion, offering ideas to better connect with and engage Latino residents. Former Bridgeport Superintendent Ricardo Medina also attended, adding his perspective on education and civic involvement.

Organizers said the meeting marked the beginning of a sustained effort to amplify Latino voices in local politics, with plans for continued outreach and community engagement in the months ahead.

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Muskegon — Michigan State University (MSU) Extension is teaming up with Centro de Esperanza to bring a valuable health education resource to the Spanish-speaking community of Muskegon. The two organizations will offer a free chronic disease self-management workshop designed specifically for adults living with chronic conditions and their family caregivers.

The program, titled “Tomando Control de su Salud” (Taking Control of Your Health), is an evidence-based, interactive series that provides practical tools and strategies to help individuals manage chronic illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, and more. Participants learn techniques related to nutrition, physical activity, stress management, communication with healthcare providers, and medication management.

The six-week series runs on Tuesdays from October 28 to December 2, held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Centro de Esperanza (Center of Hope) in Muskegon. Each participant receives a free copy of the book “Tomando Control de su Salud” to support their learning throughout the workshop.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for community members to take control of their health in a culturally and linguistically appropriate setting,” said organizers from MSU Extension.

An informational session about the program is on Monday, October 7, from 10:00 to 10:30 a.m. at Centro de Esperanza for those interested in learning more before committing.

Registration is required by Friday, October 24. Participants can register using the QR code or on the promotional flyer.

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 From his humble beginnings as a dishwasher in New York City to owning one of Lansing’s most inviting Mexican restaurants, Pablo’s story is one of perseverance, heart, and community. 

“I started as a dishwasher 34 years ago,” he recalls. “From there, I became a cook, then a server, and eventually  managed a restaurant. I always dreamed of having my own place.” 

After years of hard work, including time as a truck driver, the dream became reality with the opening of his first location in Lansing’s Old Town more than two decades ago. Two years ago, he expanded to the east side when a building opportunity presented itself. With a patio that hosts live music and a bar that evokes the warmth of the Southwest, Pablo’s is more than a restaurant, it’s a destination. 

The secret to his success? 

“You have to love what you do,” he says. “I love serving people. That’s why they keep coming back.” 

At Pablo’s, drinks are made to order, literally. There’s no strict adherence to recipes. “If someone wants a strawberry margarita or one with kiwi or passion fruit and we have the ingredients, we make it,” he shares. “We don’t have to follow rules.” 

That flexibility and customer-first attitude are part of what’s made Pablo’s thrive, even in challenging times. The Michigan Avenue construction project has slowed traffic and impacted foot business, but loyal patrons continue  to show up. “We’ve survived because of them,” he says. “And once construction ends, this will be the best  avenue in the city.” 

His passion extends beyond the kitchen. As a proud Latino entrepreneur, Pablo acknowledges both the challenges and rewards of business ownership. “There’s nothing that can stop us from achieving our dreams— except our own thinking,” he says. 

Pablo’s pride in his team is evident. “We don’t have employees and a boss. We’re a team. I was treated badly  before—I won’t let that happen here,” he explains. 

The restaurant offers a range of dishes—from authentic Puebla-style gorditas and poblano peppers to customer driven seafood options like snapper, tilapia, shrimp, and octopus, thanks to a chef trained in one of Mexico City’s premier seafood restaurants. 

When asked about the future, Pablo is clear: he hopes to open another restaurant next year. igrating to the U.S. 

For now, Lansing gets to enjoy not just his cooking, but his story—a tale that speaks to the heart of the  American Dream. 

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