MBN was on the road October 9th, and published our VIDEO content October 12th. Now an official press release has been shared by the participating organizations. So below we share that release, and re-share our original content.

Lactation suite promotes inclusivity and support for mothers in downtown Lansing.

LANSING, Mich. – LAFCU and the Lansing Entertainment & Public Facilities Authority (LEPFA), in coordination with the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, held a ribbon cutting ceremony recently to unveil the newly installed Mamava lactation pod at the Lansing Center in downtown Lansing. LEPFA and LAFCU are co-sponsors of the suite.

This mobile lactation suite provides a private, clean, and comfortable space for breastfeeding or pumping, offering an essential resource for mothers in the Lansing area. Accessed with a secure code, the pod’s spacious, ventilated interior includes seating, shelves, and charging outlets to support a range of needs.

“The Mamava pod is an innovative solution that adds real value to our community,” said Tristan Wright, president & CEO of LEPFA. “It’s more than just a resource for mothers—it’s another step toward making Lansing a more welcoming and accessible city. By providing a private, comfortable space for breastfeeding or pumping, we’re helping to meet the needs of mothers attending an event at the Lansing Center or those simply spending time in our city. This project reflects our commitment to making Lansing a place that anticipates and supports the needs of its residents and visitors alike.”

Mamava suites are found nationwide in locations such as airports, stadiums, and malls, making them an accessible resource for mothers across the U.S. With the Mamava app, users can quickly locate nearby pods and access them with a tap for greater convenience.

“We’re honored to co-sponsor this important project to support nursing mothers and promote inclusivity,” said Kelli Ellsworth Etchision, chief marketing officer and chief diversity officer at LAFCU. “At LAFCU, we’re dedicated to fostering a community where everyone feels supported. By installing this ADA-accessible Mamava pod, we’re ensuring that all mothers, including those with mobility needs, have a comfortable and private space. This aligns with our mission to make a lasting, positive impact in our community.”            

For more information on the Mamava pods and to download the app, visit mamava.com. 

About the Lansing Entertainment & Public Facilities Authority (LEPFA)
At LEPFA, we’re not just about entertainment, we create memories. We bring people together for unforgettable experiences through our centrally located venues and iconic community and regional events. With a passion for building community connections and driving economic opportunities, LEPFA powers the most electrifying sports, entertainment, business and private events in the Lansing region. Our mission is to provide professional management toward the administration, operation, marketing and maintenance of the Lansing Center, Jackson Field, Groesbeck Golf Course and community/regional interest events. Through our commitment to service excellence, we provide outstanding experiences for our guests. By providing safe environments and developing strong relationships with our diverse clients, sponsors and business neighbors, we serve as a catalyst to enhance both local and regional economic growth. Over the last five years (2019-2023), LEPFA facilities and special events have brought more than 3.3M visitors to Lansing with an economic impact of more than $192M to the Lansing economy. 

About LAFCU
Founded in 1936, LAFCU (pronounced laugh-cue) is a not-for-profit, member-owned credit union open to all who live, work, worship or attend school in Michigan, and to Michigan businesses. LAFCU serves more than 74,000 members and holds over $1 billion in assets. With a particular focus on serving people of modest means, LAFCU is committed to enhancing its members' financial well-being and creating long-lasting positive change across generations. Awarded the prestigious Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Community Service Award, LAFCU is known for its people-helping-people mission, which has led to award-winning financial literacy programs for all ages. Twice honored as a national ‘Best Credit Union to Work For’ and recognized globally for its diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, LAFCU stands out for its commitment to creating an inclusive workplace. Learn more at www.lafcu.com. 

Photo captions (7 new photos to MBN's previous photo slider below)

LAFCU_1 – Kelli Ellsworth Etchison, Tristan Wright, and Lansing Mayor Andy Schor prepare to cut the ribbon, officially unveiling the new Mamava lactation pod at the Lansing Center, co-sponsored by LAFCU and LEPFA.

LAFCU_2 – Kelli Ellsworth Etchison, Tristan Wright, and Lansing Mayor Andy Schor cut the ribbon at an event at the Lansing Center to announce the new Mamava pod, designed to provide a private and comfortable place for breastfeeding or pumping. 

LAFCU_3 – Co-sponsored by LEPFA and LAFCU, the Mamava lactation pod at the Lansing Center provides a safe and comfortable space for mothers to breastfeed or pump.

LAFCU_4 – LAFCU CEO Patrick Spyke makes remarks during the ribbon cutting of the new Mamava lactation suite at the Lansing Center, describing the importance of supporting a welcoming and vibrant downtown.

LAFCU_5 – Left side graphics on the new Mamava lactation suite installed at the Lansing Center.
 
LAFCU_6 – Right side graphics on the new Mamava lactation suite installed at the Lansing Center.

LAFCU_7 – Inside the new Mamava lactation suite installed at the Lansing Center. 

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Wednesday afternoon, October 9, 2024, Jeffrey Mosher was on the road to the Lansing Center, Michigan Avenue, Lansing, MI.

Watch the Lansing Center & LAFCU celebrate the installation of a Mamava lactation pod, providing a private, safe space for nursing mothers. Remarks, Ribbon-cutting, and tour on Oct 9, 2024, in the YouTube video shared below.

The Lansing Center and LAFCU Hosted a Ribbon-Cutting for Mamava® Lactation Pod.  

A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held on behalf of the Lansing Center and LAFCU to mark the installation of a new Mamava® lactation pod at the Lansing Center, co-sponsored by LAFCU. The event will highlight the importance of supporting nursing mothers by providing a private, safe, and comfortable space for breastfeeding or pumping. This initiative enhances the accessibility and inclusivity of the Lansing Center, ensuring it is a welcoming environment for all visitors. 

Wednesday, October 9, 2024, 3:30 p.m. 
Lansing Center, 333 E. Michigan Ave. Lansing, MI 48933, 
Michigan Ave. Concourse-West

Brief remarks will be made by:

·       Tristan Wright, Lansing Entertainment & Public Facilities Authority (LEPFA), president & CEO

·       Kelli Ellsworth Etchison, LAFCU, chief marketing officer and chief diversity officer

·       Pat Spyke, LAFCU, Chief Executive Officer 

·       Andy Schor, mayor of Lansing

Attendees included: 
·       Representatives from Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, Choose Lansing, LAFCU, Lansing Center (LEPFA), and distinguished guests. 

WHY: The installation of the Mamava lactation pod reflects the shared commitment of both the Lansing Center and LAFCU to creating a family-friendly, inclusive environment for visitors and eventgoers. This lactation suite provides a resource for nursing mothers, supporting families and working professionals attending conferences, conventions, and community events.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/justin-lee/autumn-mornings
License code: MSN7GUSBZ0YICNUV

Founded in 1936, LAFCU (pronounced laugh-cue) is a not-for-profit, member-owned credit union open to all who live, work, worship or attend school in Michigan, and to Michigan businesses. LAFCU serves more than 74,000 members and holds over $1 billion in assets. With a particular focus on serving people of modest means, LAFCU is committed to enhancing its members' financial well-being and creating long-lasting positive change across generations. Awarded the prestigious Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Community Service Award, LAFCU is known for its people-helping-people mission, which has led to award-winning financial literacy programs for all ages. Twice honored as a national ‘Best Credit Union to Work For’ and recognized globally for its diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, LAFCU stands out for its commitment to creating an inclusive workplace. Learn more at www.lafcu.com. 

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