The Westsider
July 14th, 2026
Westside Neighborhood Newsletter
The Westside is a beautiful historic neighborhood located just west of downtown Lansing, Michigan, USA. There are approximately 2,000 households within the Westside Neighborhood boundaries of Oakland Avenue on the north, Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard on the east, the Grand River on the south, and the boundary of the city on the west. Our community is known for its wonderful homes with unique character and warm interior woodwork, along winding streets lined with mature shade trees. We have a strong sense of community, and are also one of the safest neighborhoods in the city.
Double the Achievement: Sexton Twins Make School History
By Mitzi Allen
The J.W. Sexton High School Class of 2026 has produced an extraordinary accomplishment that will be remembered for years to come. Twin brothers Jah'Reiece and Kah'Reiece Kelso-McKinney have made school history by earning the prestigious titles of Valedictorian and Salutatorian.
For the brothers, academic success has always been fueled by a healthy sense of competition. Growing up, each pushed the other to do better, setting high expectations and striving to excel both in and out of the classroom.
That competitive spirit, combined with determination and hard work, helped propel them to the very top of their graduating class. Throughout high school, they continually challenged one another to maintain their academic standing while encouraging each other every step of the way.
The twins credit much of their success to the support of their family, especially their mother, whose daily words of encouragement—"Be great, be great"—became a guiding principle in their lives.
Their achievement reflects a strong family commitment to education. In fact, academic excellence runs throughout the family, with other relatives also ranking among the top students in the graduating class.
When final class rankings were announced, Jah'Reiece earned the title of Valedictorian while Kah'Reiece was named Salutatorian. The accomplishment is particularly remarkable because school administrators say they have never seen twins achieve the top two academic honors together.
The brothers are now preparing for the next chapter of their journey. This fall, they will attend the University of Michigan, where both have earned full-ride scholarships. While they may be leaving Sexton behind, one thing remains certain—they will continue motivating and supporting each other as they pursue their goals.
Their story serves as a powerful reminder that hard work, perseverance, family support, and believing in yourself can lead to extraordinary achievements.
Congratulations to Jah'Reiece and Kah'Reiece Kelso-McKinney on this historic accomplishment. The entire Sexton community and Westside Neighborhood is proud of you and wishes you continued success as you begin this exciting new chapter.
Two brothers. One journey. Double the inspiration.
Neighborhood Spotlight: Terryen Skipwith Reaches New Heights
By Mitzi Allen
Congratulations to Westside's own Terryen Skipwith, who continues to soar both on and off the field of competition!
At the recent Honor Roll Meet, Terryen captured the title of High Jump Champion, clearing a season-best 6 feet, 2 inches. His winning jump came during a particularly special year, as 2026 marked the 50th Anniversary of the Honor Roll Meet, one of the region's most prestigious track and field competitions.
The Honor Roll Meet is an invitation-only event, featuring the very best athletes from approximately 50 high schools and middle schools throughout the region. Simply receiving an invitation is a significant achievement, comparable to qualifying for the Boston Marathon. Winning an event at the Honor Roll Meet requires exceptional talent, dedication, and competitive excellence—qualities Terryen has demonstrated throughout his athletic career.
A senior at J.W. Sexton High School, Terryen has been a dedicated member of the track and field program for four years while also competing in basketball for the past two years. His hard work, determination, and athletic ability have earned him a basketball scholarship, and this fall he will continue his education and athletic career at Great Lakes Christian College.
The son of Alexis and Ditreal Skipwith, Terryen has established himself as a standout athlete both on and off the court. In addition to representing Sexton, he was selected to play for the Kingdom Steppas, a competitive men's basketball team known for its strong, physical play and talented roster. Competing alongside experienced athletes has helped him sharpen his skills and prepare for the next level of competition.
Whether soaring over the high jump bar or battling for rebounds on the basketball court, Terryen has become a role model for younger athletes in our neighborhood. His accomplishments reflect the rewards of hard work, discipline, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence.
The Westside Neighborhood Association proudly congratulates Terryen on his achievements and wishes him continued success as he begins this exciting new chapter at Great Lakes Christian College. We look forward to following his future accomplishments and celebrating the impact he will continue to make both in athletics and in his community.
Be the Light in Your Neighborhood: Meet Jaida White
By Heidi Frei
At just 11 years old, Jaida White is already proving that great things come in determined, kind-hearted packages.
As the oldest girl in a lively household with four brothers, Jaida has learned how to shine brightly while holding her own. Since moving with her family into the Westside Neighborhood Association community in 2025, Jaida has quickly become one of the neighborhood’s young standouts—not just for her energy and talents, but for her generous spirit.
A 4th grader at Gier Park Elementary, Jaida is an enthusiastic student with a love for Science and History. While many kids her age are still deciding what interests them most, Jaida already knows she’s especially fascinated by the American Revolution. Learning about the courage, struggle, and determination of the past inspires her own dreams for the future.
And those dreams are big.
Jaida loves basketball and hopes that one day she’ll play in the WNBA. Her love for the game is something she proudly shares with her father as they cheer on their favorite team, the Los Angeles Lakers. The White family’s basketball hoop has become more than just a rim and backboard—it’s a neighborhood gathering place where kids come together to shoot hoops, race, ride bikes, and build friendships.
But basketball isn’t Jaida’s only passion. She also enjoys track, music, and cooking. Her favorite band is Stray Kids, and when she’s not listening to music or staying active, she can often be found in the kitchen cooking her favorite dish—“smoke smoke sausage,” a meal her family happily enjoys.
Jaida also has a unique love for reptiles, especially snakes, proving she isn’t afraid to embrace what makes her different.
What truly makes Jaida special, however, is her heart for helping others. She proudly assists in delivering the Westside Newsletter and neighborhood flyers, helping keep neighbors informed and connected. For Jaida, lending a hand isn’t a chore—it’s something that makes her “feel good inside.”
In a world that often focuses on what young people might become, Jaida White is already showing us who she is right now: smart, active, compassionate, and community-minded.
The Westside is lucky to have Jaida and the White family as part of our neighborhood. Keep your eyes on this remarkable young lady—whether on the basketball court, running track, helping neighbors, or someday chasing her WNBA dream, Jaida is clearly one of Westside’s rising stars.
Riddle Elementary School Celebrates Earth Day!
By Heidi Frei
Now in its fifth year, the annual Earth Day celebration at Willow@Riddle Elementary brought students, educators, and community partners together for a day of environmental learning and hands-on activities on April 22.
The event was made possible through the support of the Riddle family, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Parks and Recreation Division, the City of Lansing, the Westside Neighborhood Association (WNA), Dr. Holly Schaefer, Dr. Ken Pfaff, and the Lansing School District.
A highlight of the day was the planting of four new trees at Letts Community Center. Students from 14 classrooms participated in the planting effort alongside City of Lansing staff, including City Forester Irene Cahill. Students also had the opportunity to meet and learn from Michigan DNR representatives Ranger Cody and Heidi Frei, who shared information about Michigan's natural resources and the importance of environmental stewardship.
Adding a touch of fun and science, Dr. Holly Schaefer appeared as the beloved Ms. Frizzle, engaging students with lessons about plants, ecosystems, and the many benefits trees and native plants provide to our communities.
Thanks to the generosity of Bendy Stem Nursery, Dr. Ken Pfaff, and Dr. Holly Schaefer, more than 360 native perennial plants were distributed to students and staff to take home, plant, and care for, helping to extend the Earth Day experience beyond the classroom.
Special thanks go to Ralph, Anita, Natalie, and the entire Riddle family for their continued commitment to environmental education and connecting young people with the outdoors. Through efforts like these, Willow@Riddle students are learning that even small actions can make a big difference for the planet.
Forester Heidi Frei talks to Lansing students about the importance of trees on Earth Day. Photo by Dr. Holly Schaefer.
DNR Parks and Recreation Division staff, City of Lansing forestry, the Riddle family and friends admire a tree planted with the help of Lansing students during the Earth Day celebration at Willow@Riddle school. Photo by Ralph Riddle.
Neighborhood Islands Building our Community
By Phil Booth
After moving back to the Westside neighborhood, where I grew up on South Genesee Drive, my wife and I enjoyed walking our dog around the neighborhood. One of the things we loved most was the beautiful island park near our home. It felt peaceful and welcoming, and it was something I could look out my window and enjoy in every season.
Over time, however, we began to notice that the island lawns were not being cut regularly. I found myself wondering, doesn’t the city take care of the islands?
The final straw came four years ago when I watched our neighborhood Juneteenth parade pass by an island covered in shin-high grass. I had assumed the city would step in and mow it, especially since city, state, and federal officials were participating in the parade. Instead, the grass remained untouched, and I felt embarrassed.
At that point, I decided the city was not doing enough to meet the standards we value on the Westside. After looking into the city’s bidding process for grass cutting, I concluded that the best solution was to take care of it myself.
The island was no bigger than lawns I had cared for in the past, so I felt confident I could manage it. What surprised me most, however, was how warmly the neighbors responded.
Once I began mowing the island near my home, I started meeting neighbors who helped in all kinds of ways. Some pitched in with planting, edging, and trimming flowers and annuals. Others brought me water, and some even gave me a break by mowing the grass themselves from time to time.
Over the last few years, those moments have turned into meaningful conversations. Neighbors have come out to offer water and share stories about playing there when they were young, watching children play sports, celebrating graduations, and gathering for picnics. It has been a beautiful sight to see neighbors out in the park talking to each other and reconnecting with one another.
This experience reminds me of the book Seedfolks by Paul Fleischman. In that story, a vacant lot in Cleveland is transformed into a thriving community garden. While we are simply cutting grass, the island has created a similar sense of community for us. It has brought people together and helped us build a stronger life in a neighborhood we live in and love.
This summer, the Westside Neighborhood Association is working to cut and trim other islands throughout the neighborhood. We already have nearby residents who watch over and care for their islands, and some have been doing so for years. Others even load mowers and tools into their cars and drive over to help maintain these shared spaces.
If you are interested in helping, please call Phil Booth at 517.258.2462.
St. Joe Park Update: Progress, Challenges, and the Power of Community
by Ana Henriques
Members of the WNA attended the Parks Board meeting this past Wednesday to learn more about planned improvements. While the City previously committed to adding trash cans, picnic tables, and benches to the park, these amenities have not yet been installed.
At the meeting, we learned that the City is working to place topsoil on the former tennis court site as part of our initial request. We also received an update regarding the trees promised for the park. Tree planting is expected to take place this fall, but the number of trees and their locations have not yet been determined.
One thing became very clear during the meeting: showing up matters! By attending and asking questions, we bring attention to St. Joe Park. We encourage neighbors to join us and attend future Parks Board meetings whenever possible. The meeting is every second Wednesday of the month at Foster Community Center at 6h30pm.
The park also continues to face safety challenges. During the past weekend, there was a shooting incident in the park. In addition, vehicles continue to drive across park grass. One possible solution that has been discussed is requesting a surveillance station to help deter criminal activity and unauthorized vehicle access.
Despite these concerns, there are many positive signs of community involvement. Last month, the WNA organized a cleanup event at St. Joe Park. More than 20 neighbors volunteered their time, collecting enough litter to fill an entire pickup truck. The event demonstrated the pride residents have in maintaining this important community space.
Unfortunately, only a few days after the cleanup, new trash had already accumulated in the park. The issue was documented and reported through Lansing Connect, and the City responded quickly. This experience shows the importance of reporting problems when they occur.
St. Joe Park belongs to all of us. By volunteering, attending meetings, reporting issues, and advocating for improvements, we can help ensure a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming park for everyone.
Your Neighborhood. Your Association. Your Support Matters.
Dear Neighbor,
For decades, the Westside Neighborhood Association has worked to make our neighborhood a better place to live, raise families, build friendships, and create community pride.
Unlike many neighborhood organizations, WNA does not charge membership dues. If you live within our neighborhood boundaries, you are automatically a member. We believe every resident should have a voice and an opportunity to participate, regardless of their ability to pay.
Because of that commitment, WNA has proudly provided programs, events, and services at little or no cost to residents. From neighborhood cleanups and safety meetings to holiday celebrations, family events, newsletters, park improvements, and community engagement activities, WNA has worked hard to bring neighbors together and strengthen our community.
Unfortunately, our traditional funding sources have been significantly reduced. Like many organizations, we are facing rising costs while funding opportunities continue to shrink.
The reality is simple:
If we want to continue providing the programs, services, and events that make our neighborhood special, we need your help.
Every donation, large or small, makes a difference.
Your contribution helps support:
Neighborhood safety and crime prevention programs
Community events and family activities
Park improvement projects
Neighborhood beautification efforts
Printed newsletters and communications
Youth and senior engagement programs
Community advocacy and resident support
Whether you can contribute $10, $25, $50, $100, or more, your generosity directly supports the neighborhood we all call home.
Together, we have built a strong, connected community. With your support, we can ensure that WNA continues serving residents for years to come.
Please Consider Making a Donation Today
Simply scan the QR code below to make your contribution.
Every dollar stays in the neighborhood and works for the neighborhood.
Thank you for your continued support, your involvement, and your belief in the power of community.
With gratitude,
Mitzi Allen
President
Westside Neighborhood Association
Invest in Your Neighborhood Today
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"Many hands make light work, and many hearts make a strong neighborhood." ❤️🏡
Lions Club is forming a Westside Chapter
This will be the first Lions Club chapter in Lansing. You don’t necessarily have to live in the Westside, but Westside will be the main focus. Lions Club is a non-political, non-religious organization and does not discriminate against any group.
Lions Club International has been serving the needs of neighbors and communities for over 100 years. https://www.lionsclubs.org/en/our-impact/our-service/ways-we-serve
If you are interested in being a charter member of this new Lions chapter, please contact Curtis Sonnenberg at attorney@sonnenberglaw.com (517) 515-1530.
Tragic Shootings at St. Joe Park
By Mitzi Allen
In the wake of two tragic shootings at St. Joseph Park—including the June 29 death of 15-year-old DeRon James—Westside residents came together in large numbers for the Westside Neighborhood Association's Crime and Safety Meeting on Wednesday, July 8. The meeting provided neighbors with an opportunity to voice their concerns, ask questions, and work with city leaders toward meaningful solutions to improve safety in our neighborhood.
Lansing Police Chief Robert Backus joined residents for an open and candid discussion about public safety, community policing, and violence prevention. Neighbors raised concerns about police patrols, enforcement of park closing hours, inoperable park lighting, and the need for additional security measures such as fencing, improved signage, and barriers to prevent vehicles from entering the park after hours.
Chief Backus reminded attendees that the violence is not unique to St. Joseph Park.
"It's not St. Joe Park that is the problem. This behavior that you saw at St. Joe Park, we have seen it in other parts."
He emphasized that communication between residents and law enforcement is essential. By reporting suspicious activity and sharing concerns, neighborhoods help police recognize patterns of criminal behavior and respond before violence occurs.
Residents also noted that although all Lansing parks officially close at dusk, St. Joseph Park lacks clear signage informing visitors of those hours. They urged the city to install appropriate signs and repair lighting that has been inoperable for several years.
While the meeting focused on solutions, it also served as a reminder of the tremendous loss experienced by one family.
The Westside Neighborhood Association extends its deepest sympathy to Dennis James and Latesha Jones, the parents and family of DeRon James. No family should have to endure the heartbreaking loss of a child to violence. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this time of profound grief, and we join the community in mourning a young life taken far too soon.
The Westside Neighborhood Association remains committed to working with the Lansing Police Department, the City of Lansing, Parks and Recreation officials, elected leaders, and our residents to make St. Joseph Park a safe place for families and children once again. Meetings are already underway with City Parks and Recreation to advocate for needed improvements, including lighting repairs, clearer park-closing signage, and other safety enhancements.
Safety is not achieved by one organization or one department alone—it is built when neighbors, city leaders, and law enforcement work together. The Westside Neighborhood Association will continue to advocate for positive change because we do not want another tragedy to occur in our community.