Dear Readers,
When it decided to snow, we really got hit hard. It reminded me that in a split second things can change.
On the day of The Stop the Violence Rally, it was chilly but the sun was shining. Who has a rally on November 26, 2011? We did. Inclement weather does not stop crime so why should it stop us. Inclement weather does not stop football fans from standing outside for hours so why should it stop us. Those who attended decided to forego shopping and spending time with their families to support the movement. I am grateful.
We were not worried about rain, hail, sleet or snow. We were not worried about how many people would show up. We were not worried about the impact it would make. We were committed to making sure that people from all walks of life had an opportunity to hear that they had someone who is listening.
T.E.A.M. (Together Everyone Achieves More) Lansing 517 was inspired on Sunday, November 13, 2011 during a brainstorming session in response to the murder of Ygnacio “Notch” Bermudez on November 10, 2011. Brandyn “B-Unique” Armstrong, owner of B-Unique Designz ; Sam Perez, owner of Cocky Promotions and Sin 2 Skin tattoo parlor; Big Perm, Promoter and Rapper: Rina Risper, President & Publisher of The New Citizens Press and Justin “Jsmoove” Christian met to discuss the issue of all violence and how we can galvanize the community to action.
After reviewing statements on Facebook and the surveys we realized that violence impacted our surrounding areas and there was a need to embrace other cities as well. The new name of the movement is T.E.A.M. 517.
I am working with an amazing group of people who want to change this community into a more cohesive one. You may not live close to the crime but I am sure you know someone who has been impacted by it. Support the movement.
Love people,
Rina Risper
This was printed in the December 4, 2011 – December 17, 2011 Edition.
