This story has many layers. The premise of this story is if you are a nonprofit, think very carefully about partnering with other individuals.
By TNCPNEWS
LANSING, MI — Lansing’s parks are meant to be safe havens for recreation, family gatherings, and community events. However, an incident at a community celebration has exposed glaring issues that challenge the very essence of safety and accountability in these public spaces.
On June 7 and 8, 2024, The New Citizens Press Community Action Network (TNCPCAN), a nonprofit, participated in an event coordinated by Daniel Ferreya and Tony Albarez, operating under the name “Lansing Fiesta.” Unfortunately, the event was marred by severe mismanagement and dishonesty. Ferreya lied about police coverage, falsely assuring event organizers that law enforcement would be present to maintain safety. This assurance turned out to be empty when no officers were on-site during a critical moment of the event.
The situation escalated when Ferreya, Albarez, and Elias Ferreya allegedly commandeered the beer tent, refusing to close it down because they were providing alcohol to some of the attendees. This unprofessional and reckless behavior disrupted the event and put attendees at risk due to the lack of proper oversight. Albarez was seen inside the tent with a woman who was trying to give him a bottle of alcohol. One of our volunteers also heard the conversation. The reckless behavior was inappropriate. Both Ferreya and Albarez were intoxicated as well. Our volunteers were not.
Throughout the event, coordinators demonstrated a lack of professionalism. One alarming incident involved the beer tent, where an unqualified individual—a relative of the organizers—was designated as a supervisor despite having no authority or capacity to manage the area effectively. This incident highlights systemic safety issues within Lansing’s parks and recreational spaces.
This incident raises deeper questions about the accountability and management of Lansing’s public spaces. The lack of a structured complaint system for parks and recreational areas is unacceptable. Residents and event organizers deserve better safeguards and transparent processes to report and address issues effectively.
Setting the Record Straight
Contrary to any claims, The New Citizens Press Community Action Network Inc. (TNCPCAN) did not partner with the event’s coordinators, Daniel Ferreya and Tony Albarez. Ferreya approached TNCPCAN for the license—not the other way around. Coordination changed dramatically after Albarez joined later in the process, introducing a host of additional problems. From start to finish, the organizers acted unilaterally, disregarding collaboration and safety concerns.
Insights from Lansing Residents
To gain insight into broader public sentiment, a survey of 77 Lansing residents was conducted about the state of the city’s parks. The responses revealed a mix of concerns, including safety issues, inadequate oversight, and the urgent need for reform.
In the coming weeks, we will publish the survey results, shedding light on specific community concerns and exploring potential solutions to improve safety and accountability in Lansing parks. This is just the beginning of a necessary conversation.
Key Lessons for Nonprofits
Based on this experience, TNCPCAN advises other nonprofits to approach similar opportunities with caution. Here are some critical lessons to ensure better outcomes:
- Document Every Interaction
Keep a detailed record of all conversations, agreements, and incidents. These records provide essential evidence should issues arise. - Demand a Comprehensive Contract
Ensure all responsibilities and expectations are clearly defined in writing before committing. A well-drafted contract protects both parties and prevents last-minute surprises. (Ferreya and Albarez were falsely advising relatives, vendors, and visitors that they were “over” the TNCPCAN beer tent. There was one circumstance where a visitor to the beer tent told us that we had to give her a beverage because “this is her Uncle Tony’s tent.”) - Vet the Event Organizers
Speak to other organizations that have worked with the same coordinators. Their insights can offer critical information about the organizers’ professionalism and reliability. (Ferreya was attentive and knowledgeable. However, he misled us into believing that he was working for Sundance, and we found out that he was no longer working there in August of 2024. He was let go in December of 2023. Keeping that information quiet was a huge red flag. - Advocate for Transparency and Safety
If safety measures, such as police presence, are promised, confirm these arrangements in advance and demand accountability. (We have the receipts.) - Evaluate the Cost-Benefit
Assess whether the time and resources invested in the event justify the potential outcomes. If an event is disorganized or unsafe, it may not be worthwhile. (This is something that you may not know. While we may never get a liquor license again. I suggest you thoroughly vet the organization you are working with, including the personal employment of those in charge.
Looking Ahead
This event was a costly learning experience, both in terms of time and effort. While TNCPCAN broke even financially, the challenges and unsafe conditions revealed systemic issues that must be addressed. Discussions with law enforcement and licensing authorities are underway to ensure future events prioritize safety and collaboration.
Nonprofits considering partnerships for events like this must remain vigilant, demand clarity, and stand firm in their expectations. As for TNCPCAN, this chapter is far from over. More revelations are forthcoming as additional perspectives are gathered and shared.
Stay tuned for updates on this situation, a deeper dive into the survey responses, and insights into how Lansing can better manage and safeguard its parks and public events.
More to come.
