Power 96.5 Celebrates Black History Month locally with our 2026 Lansing Legends

Power 96.5 and Dart Bank salute: Helena Dubose

Helena Joyce Dubose was a true Lansing legend—a trailblazer in media, a respected leader, and a lifelong champion for community progress. A Lansing resident for over 65 years she worked in various capacities in health care and government before turning her entrepreneur spirit to business. In 1986, she made history as the first African American woman in Lansing to receive a permit to build an FM radio station, later owning and leading Power 96.5 FM and WXLA 1180 AM. Under her leadership, these stations became pillars of the community—amplifying local voices, training future broadcasters, and connecting Lansing through culture and information.

Beyond radio, Helena Dubose dedicated her life to service through organizations such as Delta Sigma Theta, the NAACP, UNCF, and the Zonta Club of Lansing. Her legacy of leadership, empowerment, and impact remains deeply rooted in Lansing and continues to inspire generations.

Power 96.5 and LAFCU salute: Tamera Carter

Tamera Carter is a lifelong Michigan resident and a respected community leader who proudly calls Lansing home. A graduate of MSU, she holds a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Law and Society, along with a Masters in Organizational Leadership from Cornerstone University.

She serves as VP of Membership Growth and Development at LAFCU (laugh-cue), leading strategies that strengthen member experience, access, and community impact. In public service, Tamera is an elected Member of the Lansing City Council, helping guide city policy, budgets, and governance with a focus on economic development, housing equity, and public safety.

Tamera has consistently championed collaboration and community-led solutions. Her steady leadership, service, and commitment to Lansing have earned her recognition as a Lansing Legend—a trusted voice working every day to uplift the city and its people.

Power 96.5 and Lansing Community College salute: Dr. Toni Glasscoe

Dr. Toni Glasscoe is a respected education leader and community advocate whose work has shaped Lansing and the surrounding region for decades. She serves as Associate VP of External Affairs, Development, and K–12 Operations at Lansing Community College, where she strengthens partnerships that expand college access, career readiness, and student success.

Beyond higher ed, Dr. Glasscoe has been a trusted civic leader, including her service as a Trustee on the Grand Ledge Board of Education. She has contributed to numerous boards and initiatives focused on youth development, workforce readiness, and educational equity.

What distinguishes Dr. Glasscoe as a Lansing Legend is her people-centered leadership. Known for building bridges, mentoring future leaders, and advocating for first-generation students, her impact extends far beyond any single institution. Through decades of service, she has strengthened Lansing’s educational foundation and inspired community progress.

Power 96.5 and CATA salute: Tico Duckett

Tico Duckett is the owner and operator of Duckett Brothers Distribution and a proud alumnus of Michigan State University. A Spartan legend, Tico remains MSU’s 3^rd all-time leading rusher with over 4 thousand yards, while scoring 28 touchdowns over four seasons for the Green and White, cementing his place in MSU and college football history.  Following graduation, Duckett played in the NFL for the Washington Commanders.

Transitioning from sports to business, Tico applied the same discipline and leadership as a Senior Buyer before founding Duckett Brothers Distribution in 1998. Under his leadership, the company has grown into a leading janitorial and industrial supply provider in the Mid-Michigan region.

A respected community leader, Tico serves on the boards of the Capital Area United Way and the Boys & Girls Club of Lansing, reinforcing his legacy as a true Lansing Legend.

Power 96.5 and Accident Fund salute: Tia Hester-Bell

Tia Hester-Bell is the embodiment of faith in action—a loving wife, devoted mother and grandmother whose life reflects service, sacrifice, and unwavering love.  A Lansing native, proud graduate of Lansing Public Schools, and a lifelong champion of her community. Tia’s commitment to excellence led her to earn a Bachelor’s degree from WMU and Master’s degrees from Marygrove College and MSU.

Mrs. Bell served the Lansing School District for over 32 years as a Teacher, Instructional Coach, Community Liaison, and more. Her leadership helped achieve a historic graduation rate of nearly 87%, opening doors for thousands of students through Lansing Promise and scholarship pathways.

Beyond education, her work through initiatives like Betty’s Closet restored dignity and hope for countless families. Through faith, leadership, and service, Tia Hester-Bell has left an enduring mark on every life she has touched.