The Chronicle News No. 51 April 1st – April 15th, 2024

Connecting Communities

Autism Awareness Month

Flora-Detaching the Stigma while Changing the Face of Cannabis

The Chronicle News was invited to Flora Cannabis Co. to meet the team and tour the store. We explored the store and discussed how this project came to life. When talking with the team at Flora, they were excited to share the vision of the Company with the Chronicle readership and digital following.

The owners of the company designed the store to fit the needs of the community. They work to elevate the experience for the cannabis community while helping remove the stigma.

For so long the social disapproval of cannabis has caused some within the cannabis community to be discriminated

against. The stigmas surrounding cannabis have been harsh stemming from the results of Prohibition, and the War on Drugs. Within the last decade, new laws and open minds have been working to change this narrative.

Apprenticeships drive Lansing Community College Healthcare Programs

Communities thrive when they have access to reliable healthcare, best offered by providers who have been trained to the highest degree. These years of classroom and clinical education can be taxing for students who must work to afford their tuition.

Increasingly, healthcare students can earn as they learn through apprenticeships and work-based learning opportunities.

Work-Based Learning allows students to pursue their education and career at the same time. These opportunities might be internships, co-ops, continued learning on the job, or apprenticeships,

which are training arrangements between an employer, employee and the U.S. Department of Labor. The apprentice’s employer often pays for tuition. During an apprenticeship, the apprentice receives scheduled wage increases as their skills increase, until the apprentice becomes “highly skilled.”

At Lansing Community College (LCC), Technical Careers Division staff work alongside employers and students to prioritize educational and training goals. For students in Health and Human Services (HHS)

Courtesy Photo-Elayne Curry Flora Marketing/Merchandising Manager

The Legacy of Dr. Mar tin Luther King Jr Cebres Black History

Ballerina Misty Copeland Shatters Glass Ceilings

Misty Danielle Copeland was born September 10, 1982, in Kansas City Missouri. Misty Copeland is not your typical Prima Ballerina. She is a trailblazer in a tutu American by becoming the first African American woman to be promoted to principal dancer in ABT's 75-year history. Misty’s well-chronicled journey to becoming the first female African American principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre has helped jumpstart conversations about racial representation in ballet companies. Misty is a strong, graceful and breathtaking performer continually breaking the barriers of classical dance. Dance is her voice and a driving force in her life. She is pushing racial barriers and proving ballerina stereotypes are non-sense.

Misty Copeland if from Kansas City. During her childhood she endured a tumultuous home life to find her way to dance, eventually studying under California ballet instructor Cindy Bradley. Copeland joined the studio company of American Ballet Theatre in 2000, becoming a soloist several years later and

starring in an array of productions such as The Nutcracker and Firebird. An icon whose star shines beyond the world of classical dance, in late June 2015 Copeland became the first African American performer to be appointed as an ABT principal dancer in the company's de-

cade’s long history. With a non-traditional entry into ballet, Copeland has created buzz outside of that world due to her being one of the few African American performers seen in classical dance. In a meteoric rise, she has continually acknowledged the responsibility she feels to brown girls looking to make their way in the art form. Her trailblazing accomplishments have been recognized by a range of institutions, and in spring 2015 she was named one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People, a rare feat for someone from the dance world.

In June 2015, Copeland became the first African American woman to dance with ABT in the dual role of Odette and Odile in Pyotry Ilycih Tchaikovsky’s

Inventions by African Americans That Changed History

The United States and the world owe so much to African American people. As leaders in education, politics, culture, and science, they’ve made substantial contributions to society that have saved lives, influenced business, and so much more. Here are a few little-known or rarely attributed inventions by African Americans that changed history for the better.

Portable Refrigeration

It’s debatable who really invented air conditioning. Several individuals had a hand in developing

modern PTAC units, but Frederick McKinley Jones invented the first portable refrigeration units. Jones had several impressive inventions and developments to his credit, including a ticket-dispensing machine for movie theaters, a device that synced audio with silent films, and a portable X-ray machine!

Jones’s most important invention might be portable refrigeration. He created refrigeration systems for trucks that worked well and weren’t disrupted by motion or jostling on the road. This invention became invaluable during World War II in

the 1940s. Soldiers used refrigerated trucks to preserve and transport food, drugs, blood, and other perishables.

Traffic Lights and Gas Masks

It’s impossible to guess how many lives Garrett Morgan saved with his two best-known inventions: the gas mask and the traffic light.

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Swan Lake. Then on June 30 of that same year, Copeland scored a monumental achievement covered the world over, becoming the first African American performer to be appointed an ABT principal dancer in the company's 75year history. At a subsequent news conference, an emotional Copeland stated in tears that the announcement marked the culmination of her lifelong dream. Copeland has also been able to forge a career outside of the classic traditions of ballet via the guidance of manager Gilda Squire.

In addition to having her own 2013 calendar, endorsement deals with COACH and American Express, a spot-on Prince’s Welcome 2 tour, and a guest appearance on So You Think You Can Dance, Copeland has been one of the stars of Under Armour’s “I Will What I Want” video campaign, with her clip receiving more than 8 million views and counting.

Misty Copleand-Courtesy Photo Metropolitan Opera | Misty Copeland (metopera.org)

Greater Lansing Celebrates April as Autism Awareness Month

Plan Your Trip to the Most Sensory-friendly City in Michigan!

LANSING , Mich.— The Greater Lansing region prides itself on being a welcoming community and it is our goal to provide the best experience to all guests that visit. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 44 children are diagnosed on the autism spectrum. Therefore, in 2017 the Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau began a collaboration with regional attractions to provide a supportive and welcoming environment for those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental disabilities, sensory processing disorder, and other neuro-diverse individuals and their families. Multiple attractions have joined the partnership including Impression 5 Science Center, Celebration Cinema, NCG Cinema, MSU’s Abrams Planetarium, MSU Museum, Potter Park Zoo, Michigan History Center, State Capitol Building, Lansing Art Gallery & Education Center, the Lansing Lugnuts, Preuss Pets and Wharton Center for Performing Arts.

The GLCVB has supported Xavier DeGroat, an autism awareness advocate

who has created the Xavier DeGroat Autism Foundation and in February of 2022 opened the Autism History Museum in the Meridian Mall. The museum, the first of its kind, offers a timeline of the awareness of autism and celebrates prominent figures who live with ASD. DeGroat’s Foundation will help counsel, rehabilitate, and provide financial guidance to local individuals with autism.

Additionally, the GLCVB has part-

nered with the Mid-Michigan Autism Association (MMAA), Residential Options, Inc. (ROI) and Michigan State University (MSU) to facilitate local trainings for front line hospitality staff, in order to further enhance the visitor experience for people on the autism spectrum and their families. Over 1,400 individuals have undergone the training to better meet the needs of our neuro-diverse guests.

“The Greater Lansing community

The S.M.A.C.K Show-Support Small Business

BY SARAH THORNTON

The S.M.A.C.K Show is one of the first family “live” reality “talk shows” of it’s time. We speak about real life issues, and news happening in the world everyday on a level where every person young or old can relate to it. We enjoy allowing people to see us as we truly are, and are happy to share our opinions on a matter. We record our shows “LIVE” so people can feel like they are (right there) on set with us.

We on The SMACK Show love to give back and sow gifts and monetary blessings into people and the community (if, and whenever we can). Our show helps to shine light on local businesses, authors, and anyone trying to do something positive and uplifting just like us.

We love to make people laugh and have a good

time no matter what may be happening in this crazy world around us.

We created The S.M.A.C.K Show while our sa-

takes great pride in having numerous offerings tailored to the growing number of neuro-diverse guests and their families,” said Julie Pingston, President and CEO. “It is our hope to continue to develop and conduct ASD training for our hospitality partners and encourage sensory-friendly activities by our attractions.”

The Greater Lansing community will be celebrating Autism Awareness Month this April with the following sensory-friendly activities as well as a robust calendar of sensory-friendly programming throughout the year.

For a complete schedule of ongoing sensory-friendly activities and attractions, including information on restaurants and virtual tours of over 50 area locations produced by AbleEyes, please visit https://www.lansing.org/things-todo/sensoryfriendly/.

The vision of the GLCVB is to inspire everyone to celebrate and love Greater Lansing as much as we do! Which goes hand in hand with our mission, to positively impact our community’s quality of life by developing the region as a visitor destination.

lon (See-LaVee) was shutdown and we were out of work (at home), and shut-in during the start of the Coronavirus Pandemic. Our show’s name means:

“Seriously Making Awareness of Conscious Kickbacks”, but now is revised to “Spiritually Minded Adults & Children of the Kingdom”!

****Please find us on all social media platforms (Facebook/ Instagram/YouTube/ and TikTok under The SMACK Show and/or Tre Kin.

Follow us for more information about any upcoming “community” events or live recordings of our show.

The SMACK Show Be A Miracle- (Giving Back is what we’re all about). We at The S.M.A.C.K Show pride ourselves...

Image courtesy of the SMACK show

Meet Julie Vandenboom Candidate for Lansing Charter Commission

Lansing’s voters are quickly closing in on the May 7 election that will choose the City’s Charter Revision Commission. Lansing has been operating under the same charter since 1978 and will select a nine-member commission that will recommend changes that the voters will decide on.

Julie Vandenboom was the first candidate to file to run for the Charter Revision Commission in November.

“I jumped in right away,” Vandenboom said. “I’ve never wanted to run for anything before, but I have the skill set the commission needs. I’ve talked to many people in Lansing’s neighborhoods who feel unrepresented or under-represented when it comes to city government. I’ve thrived here in Lansing, and I want to make sure this is a city where others can thrive too.”

er feedback and see what the most pressing issues for Lansing residents are. She regularly attends neighborhood meetings hosted by Southwest Action Group, Rejuvenating South Lansing, and the Eastside Neighborhood Organization. Non-profit agencies such as Cristo Rey Community Center, the Refugee Development Center, Northwest Initiative, and the Women’s Center of Greater Lansing are also a priority as Julie conducts outreach.

planning and evaluation and now as a program re-engineering specialist. Her work includes initiatives like behavioral economics and change readiness assessment, and she was the co-lead of the effort to create a statewide Anti-Racism Transformation Team for Michigan’s child support program.

Julie Vandenboom says “My top priority is involving the community in robust discussions about charter change - not just 3-minute public comment periods, but opportunities for back-andforth with commissioners and others.

Vandenboom has lived in Greater Lansing since she was 8 years of age and moved to the Eastside of Lansing in the Turner Dodge neighborhood in the year 2000.

“I heard some of the same concerns everywhere I went,” said Vandenboom. “There are resources available in Lansing, but a lot of folks don’t know how or where to access them.”

Since November, Vandenboom has reached out to the community to gath -

Vandenboom works for the State of Michigan in the Department of Health and Human Services, where she is a 15year veteran. She spent several years as a policy analyst before working in

“My vision is a Lansing that is a city for all of us - not just for folks who live in the right neighborhoods or have the right connections.”

To find out more about Julie Vandenboom and her candidacy for Lansing Charter Commission visit www. julievandenboom.com or email vandenboomchartercommission@gmail.com

Community Advocate Jerimic Clayborn III Runs for Delta Township Trustee

Meet Jerimic, a 33-year-old husband, father, and proud believer, born and raised on the south side of Lansing. He knows what it means to “get it out the mud.” Raised by a single mother who possessed a debilitating disease and estranged from his father who spent 13 years in pris on, Jerimic navigated his way through high school, and ultimately, to where he is today.

which he continues to practice today. He has represented numerous brands and campaigns over the past decade. In addition, criminal justice became a focus focus for Jerimic.

Jerimic resides in Delta Township with his Christina his beautiful wife of 8 years, his 9-year-old son Malachi, his 7-year-old son Levi, his 4-year-old daughter Eliana and his 22-month-old son Isaiah.

Jerimic made the conscious decision of dedicating his life to the service of others. In 2005, Jerimic received the John the Baptist award from Our Savior Lutheran Church and School. and graduated from J.W. Sexton High School in 2009.

Following high school, Jerimic submersed himself in the experiential marketing realm,

Jerimic has experience working in the security sector for General Motors, Delta Dental, Meijer Distribution Center, and Waverly Middle School. In 2019, Jerimic began his career with the Lansing School District. His first role with the district was as a State of Michigan PA 330 Certified Public Safety Officer. Today, Jerimic has assumed the role of Community Engagement Specialist, primarily working with the Lansing Learning Hub (Lansing School District’s alternative high school). He works with external persons, and organizations, to facilitate student success in high school and beyond.

Courtesy Photo-Julie Vandenboom Lansing City Charter Revision Commission Candidate.

Courtesy Photo-Jerimic Clayborn III Delta Township Trustee Candidate

WACKADOO! EMMY AWARD-WINNING PHENOMENON BLUEY BRINGS FIRST LIVE STAGE SHOW TO WHARTON CENTER

EAST LANSING, MI – Grab the sticky geckos, break out the duck cakes, and alert the grannies! It’s time to meet the much-loved Heeler family, who will be coming to Wharton Center on Tuesday, May 28, and Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at 6PM with the Bluey live show, Bluey’s Big Play: The Stage Show! The Emmy Award-winning animated preschool series, which airs on Disney Junior, Disney Channel, and Disney+, will be “taking the show on the road” to Wharton Center. Tickets are on sale now through the official Wharton Center Ticket Office, online at whartoncenter.com, or by calling 517.432.2000 or 1.800.WHARTON.

Fans of all ages will get to see Bluey, Bingo, Bandit, and Chilli as they’ve never seen them before, as the Heelers embark on their very first live theater show in the U.S. featuring puppetry, live actors, and iconic sets. Based on an original new story written by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, Bluey’s Big Play: The Stage Show also contains new music by Bluey composer, Joff Bush.

“After seeing the amazing reaction, the show received during its Australia run, we are delighted to bring this standout live theater show to U.S. audiences,” said director Rosemary Myers of Windmill Theatre Co.

About Bluey

The series follows Bluey, a sixyear-old Blue Heeler dog who loves to

play and turn everyday family life into extraordinary adventures that unfold in unpredictable and hilarious ways, bringing her family, friends, and community into her world of fun.

Bluey has won the hearts of kids and parents around the world since it first launched in Australia in October 2018, and has quickly become a global hit.

In Australia, Bluey is the number

one kids show on broadcast television and is the most-watched series ever on ABC iview. In June 2019, BBC Studios struck a global broadcast deal with Disney to premiere Bluey in all territories outside Australia, New Zealand, and Greater China; it now screens in over 60 countries. In the US on Disney Junior, since March 2021, the show has been the #1 most watched TV series with kids ages 2-6. In the UK, Bluey was the most watched show on CBeebies in January 2022 and is also available on Disney+.

Bluey has also won multiple awards, such as the International Emmy Kids Award in the prestigious Preschool Category in 2020 and has picked up the AACTA Award for Best Children’s Program for three years running (20192021). Bluey recently won four Kidscreen Awards in February 2021.

Bluey is produced by multi-Emmy award-winning Ludo Studio for ABC Kids Australia, co-commissioned by ABC Children’s and BBC Studios, and distributed internationally by BBC Studios outside of Australia.

Grammy-nominated artist KEM to perform in Battle Creek April 13

As an internationally renowned R&B singer and songwriter, KEM spent much of his life in Detroit and has performed all over the world. He has one Platinum-selling album (KEM: ALBUM II); two Gold-selling albums (KEMISTRY; INTIMACY); three GRAMMY nominations, along with several number-one singles, sold-out national tours and international shows.

“We are excited to turn up the energy in Battle Creek and bring KEM to the Kellogg Arena for all the concertgoers in our region who love good music and nightlife,” said La June Montgomery Tabron, chair of the fundraising committee for The Kalamazoo (MI) Chapter of the Links,

Incorporated. “The Kellogg Arena is the third largest indoor, municipally owned concert venue in the state, and it’s time to show the region why it’s a great location to attend a concert.”

The concert will begin at 8 p.m., and doors will open at 6 p.m. Tickets are available online or at the Kellogg Arena. All VIP ticket purchasers will receive a copy of his newly released memoir, “Share My Life” published by Simon & Schuster.

“Our Links Chapter is thrilled to bring the talent and creativity of KEM to audiences in the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo region. We’re eager for the community to be more aware of our charitable efforts and to have an opportunity to come out and support the

mission of our chapter. And KEM’s soulful music is perfect for this time of the year,” added Tabron.

All proceeds from the KEM concert will support scholarships, programs and services for the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo communities. The Kalamazoo (MI) Chapter of the Links Incorporated has been providing community service activities in Kalamazoo and Battle Creek for more than 22 years. Recognizing the importance of overall total health and wellness of children,...

(Battle Creek, Mich.) Grammy-nominated R&B recording artist KEM will appear at the Kellogg Arena on Sat., April 13, 2024, in a concert hosted by The Kalamazoo (MI) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated.

WORLD-CLASS CANCER CARE

IN YOUR HOME TOWN

Three teams, one home. Through our partnership, we have created an environment that brings top-rated cancer research and care to the greater Lansing region so you can beat cancer and heal faster closer to home.

For more information, visit karmanos.org/lansingcancer.

Spring Into Action: Ways to Stay Active and Prevent Sports-Related Injuries

Spring is finally here. As the weather starts to warm up, many people spend more time outdoors and get back into sport-related activities after the long winter months. While living an active lifestyle is vital for your overall health, injuries can and do happen.

“Injuries can occur at all ages in a wide variety of joints,” said Dr. Toufic Jildeh, orthopedic and sports medicine specialist at MSU Health Care, who performs procedures at McLaren Greater Lansing. “Whether it is a sudden

or chronic injury, there are steps people can take to prevent further pain and damage that would lead to more concerning injuries.”

Dr. Jildeh is the head team physician for MSU Athletics and for the U.S. Olympic Ski and Snowboard team, and he sees patients for sport-related injuries such as those affecting the knee, shoulder, and hip joints, including broken bones, dislocated joints, and injuries to ligaments and tendons (such as the ACL and meniscus).

Transitioning Outdoors

With shorter days and colder temperatures, some people may not be as active in the winter. Even if you are going to the gym regularly or perform athletic activities, your muscles and joints can weaken. A sudden increase and demand for these muscles and joints can lead to injury.

Meet Martinez White, Author, entrepreneur, and Community Advocate

Martinez White, Emmy Award recipient, founding member of the Wisconsin Association of Black Men, and CEO of Intuition Productions, upholds the belief that “Dreams Are Made to Be Achieved™”. He's inspired over 5,000 youth as a keynote speaker and DJ, with 8000+ copies of his debut self-help book THINK LIKE A DJ: 7 Steps to Spin Poverty into Prosperity sold worldwide! THINK LIKE A DJ is about a child from a single-parent home who became a first-generation college admit at just 16 years old. He shows his readers how he sees the world through the eyes of a creative and accomplishes goals through highs and lows making life dance for him. He describes his journey of life through the heart of a DJ and life being his ultimate party.

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PREMIER GROW LAUNCHES "GROWING

A PREMIER

COMMUNITY" CAMPAIGN TO PROMOTE AUTISM ACCEPTANCE

Michigan-based cultivator, Premier Grow is proud to announce the launch of its newest campaign, "Growing a Premier Community," aimed at promoting Autism acceptance and inclusion. April is Autism Acceptance Month, and Premier Grow is committed to supporting this important movement through its special edition packaging and donations to the Autism Alliance of Michigan.

Premier Grow's CEO, Raffi Muschegian, is driven by his love and dedication to his twin sons with Autism, inspiring him to launch a campaign for Autism acceptance. As a single father, Raffi has poured his heart and soul into this, with a desire to create a better world for his sons and others in the community. He has big dreams for his sons and hopes that one day they will be able to take over the family business and continue spreading a message of acceptance and compassion. The company also has a long-term goal of hiring more individuals on the spectrum and those with disabilities, providing them with opportunities for

growth and development within the company. Premier Grow believes that everyone deserves a chance to pursue their passions and contribute to their fullest potential, regardless of any perceived limitations.

By purchasing products with this packaging, you are not only supporting Premier Grow's commitment to Autism acceptance, but you are also contributing to a meaningful cause. A portion of the proceeds from the sales of these

products will be donated to the Autism Alliance of Michigan, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing resources, education, and advocacy for individuals with Autism and their families.

"We believe that it is important to create a world that is inclusive and accepting of all, we invite you to join us in supporting this cause," said Muschegian. "Through this campaign, we hope to raise awareness and increase accep-

tance for the Autistic community, and we thank you for your support."

The special edition packaging will be available at Evergreen Wellness, The Herbalist, Green Genie on McNichols, and other select dispensaries statewide. For more information on how to support this fundraiser head to premiergrow.net/community.

ABOUT THE AUTISM ALLIANCE OF MICHIGAN

The Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) is a 501(c)(3) organization and trusted ally and partner for thousands of families dealing with Autism. AAoM’s mission is to lead efforts to raise expectations and expand opportunities for people affected by autism across their lifespan. We work to create a more accepting future for all people by cultivating a world rich in diverse abilities, talents, and ideas. An AAoM navigator can be reached at 877-4632266 (AAOM) or email at navigator@ aaomi.org. More information about AAoM can be found at www.autismallianceofmichigan.org

Courtesy of Autism Alliance of Michigan and Premier Grow

Famed actor and best-selling author Hill Harper, US Senate candidate to appear at Jackson based annual multi-series festival

The Southside Festival Series launched in 2019 with the Summer Fest #SouthsideMural reveal, celebrating the rich history and heroes of the African American community on the southside of Jackson.

The tradition continued each year expanding into a multi series of festivals that included themes such as the Black Arts Fest, The Freedom Fest, The Entrepreneurs Expo, Kwanzaa Dinner and a Local Authors Expo.

This year’s 6th annual series kicks off April 13th at C-Store Deli 1202

Dr. MLK Jr Drive featuring 2 dozen local authors from around Michigan

showcasing their many book titles. The series picks back up on Friday May 31st with a concert jam, food trucks and vendors.

Day 2 follows on Saturday June 1st with vendors, live music, kids' activities and a special Lyons Den live interview of US Senate candidate, best-selling author and actor Hill Harper. The series concludes on Sunday with live music, vendors, special performances and kids' activities. Sponsored by Experience Jackson, Stop 1 Insurance, Partial 2 Girls, T.Smith Business Consulting and AMEN 4 Youth.

The owners of Flora are working to ‘Change the Face of Cannabis’

The team at Flora works to make sure the experience is judgment-free and welcoming

Flora Cannabis Co is a company started by friends with a passion for cannabis, and the community. They work to elevate the Michigan cannabis experience. Therefore, the Flora Team promotes the power of quality, tailored to one's values. Join us today for a unique and welcoming experience in the world of cannabis, unlike any other.

Flora is a Roman fertility goddess, and a symbol of flowers, nature, and spring. The name originates from the word Floris, which means flower in Latin. She represents youthful energy and the blossoming of life.

Stepping into Flora was like entering another world. The Florists are friendly, and the showroom is beautifully designed. Inside the store, you can find a welcoming and artfully designed

shop. Outside there is a convenient and familiar drive-thru experience.

The Team Behind Flora

Thadd Gormas has spent his professional time in the Lansing area partnering with organizations to navigate complex policy environments. He co-founded the Lansing-based production facility Sunrise Mtn in 2018 who are best known for our award-winning brand. Thadd founded Flora in 2023 to provide a different type of retail experience. He worked with a partnership group to develop the property to include cafes and community space in the same building.

Having served the Michigan Legislature as an executive and policy thought leader for over a decade, Thadd is trusted by community leaders across Michigan. His work has empowered Michigan organizations & communities to improve health outcomes. The work he is most proud of includes expanding access to health insurance through

Healthy Michigan which provides health insurance to about 1 million Michigan residents every year.

Thadd started by engaging in community discussions with Bath Township and the development partners for years before designing a cannabis store the community can be proud of. Flora is intentionally designed to be welcoming to everyone in the community. Florists actively engage visitors with a personalized approach whether they are firsttime cannabis shoppers or regulars. Flora is co-founded and inspired by Thadd’s wife Michelle Gormas who also owns a family medicine practice in Meridian Township. Together, their work intends to support a healthy, vibrant, and diverse Lansing community.

Meet Elayne

Elayne Curry is an Army brat who moved around frequently and decided to make Michigan home. She is a recent graduate of Olivet College who was

entertained by the idea of moving due to a lack of opportunities in her desired field of Marketing. While conducting her job search during the Pandemic, she was led to Flora. Flora was able to provide a solid career for Elayne, while she worked in Marketing.

Elayne is passionate about the health of underserved communities. In her free time, Elyane volunteers for several local charities while working as a Barista parttime. As she hones her marketing skills, she is working towards her lifelong dream of owning her own Coffee Shop.

If you would like to find out more about the Flora or chat to the team, feel free to come out to the First Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, April 20th from 11:00 AM-6:00 PM at 7733 E Saginaw Street, East Lansing, MI 48823. All local vendors are welcome to come and set up a table for free. For more information about vendor opportunities please reach out to Elayne at elayne@florael.com

Programs, this means determining the professional competencies required of healthcare first responders and tailoring LCC’s instruction to meet these mandated requirements.

Accompanying this, students have the opportunity to practice elements of their lessons in the field, doing tasks related to the work they will finally do after their apprenticeship ends.

Additionally, students engaged in healthcare apprenticeships help address the critical lack of first responders in Michigan.

According to estimates from the Michigan Health Council, the state will require more than 5,500 new paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) through 2030. LCC Director of HHS Apprenticeships and External Partnerships William Emerson believes students can benefit from apprenticeships while contributing their service to public health in Michigan, and nationwide.

at LCC’s HHS Division, we offer innovative U.S. Department of Labor-registered apprenticeships in occupations such as medical assistant, EMT, first responder and paramedic. Students benefit from on-the-job training, mentoring and state-of-theart instruction.”

“Healthcare apprenticeships are part of a national effort to solve critical workforce shortages by expanding apprenticeships into nontraditional areas,” Emerson said, “Here

Because students within LCC programs are apprentices, they earn money as they learn their professional craft before passing their certifying exams. Further, as the apprenticeships are constructed with the active participation of Michigan employers,

students are able to network prior to employment.

Emerson credits the ability for students to get paid while going to school as part of the program’s success. “This popular ‘earn as you learn’ model combines employer input, mentoring, and on-the-job-training, with a structured education plan,” he said.

Enrollment in LCC apprenticeship programs for health-related fields is ongoing. For information regarding HHS programs, visit lcc.edu/hhs. For programs specific to healthcare first responder fields, visit lcc.edu/ems.

Creative Partner - Local Small Business Strategy and Marketing Training

Transform Your Local Marketing Strategy and Achieve Explosive Growth with Creative Partner

- Local Small Business Strategy and Marketing Training

Lansing, MI – April X, 2024 – Creative Partner, a full-service marketing agency based in Lansing, Michigan, is thrilled to announce a transformative event designed to revolutionize local small business marketing strategies. Creative Partner - Local Small Business Strategy and Marketing Training

This dynamic event, scheduled for Wednesday, April 17th, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 11:45 AM, will be held at the Consumers Credit Union on 6935 S Cedar St, Lansing, MI. It promises to unlock unprecedented growth opportunities by showcasing strategies that have previously driven up to a 400% increase in business performance metrics.

This event isn't just another seminar; it's a gateway to substantial growth for Lansing's small business owners. You'll walk away with actionable insights, ready to implement proven strategies that have consistently delivered spectacular results.

Event Highlights:

In-depth Exploration of Local Mar-

keting: Discover why local marketing is crucial for your business's success in the Lansing community.

Google Business Profile Optimization: Learn to stand out in local searches, attracting more customers to your doorstep.

Website Localization Strategies: Transform your website into a local traffic magnet, directly connecting with your community.

Effective Social Media Engagement: Harness social media to foster meaningful local interactions and build customer loyalty.

Local Networking Opportunities: Unlock the power of community through networking, creating lasting relationships and synergies.

More Than a Workshop: Fostering a Thriving Lansing Business Community

Beyond the workshop, enjoy unparalleled opportunities for networking with peers and local experts. Led by Chad Morgan, Creative Partner isn't merely a marketing agency; it's a catalyst for profound growth and innovation within the Lansing entrepreneurial ecosystem. We're committed to nurturing a thriving network of businesses, fostering innovation, and driving local economic success.

Register Today and Take Your Business to New Heights

Secure your spot for free today and embark on a transformative journey.

Register now on Eventbrite and join us in redefining Lansing's business landscape.

For more details and registration, please visit our Eventbrite event page: https://www.eventbrite. com/e/865916478497?aff=oddtdtcreator

Event Details:

Date: Wednesday, April 17, 2024

Time: 9:00 AM to 11:45 AM

Location: Consumers Credit Union, 6935 S Cedar St, Lansing, MI 48911

Connect With Us:

Stay updated and join our community online:

Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite. com/e/865916478497?aff=oddtdtcreator

Facebook: www.facebook. com/1creativpartner

Instagram: instagram.com/1creativpartner

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/1chadmorgan

Google Business Profile: maps. app.goo.gl/6dCVNjWHGxaAWLGK6

YouTube: youtube.com/@1creativpartner

Don't miss this unparalleled opportunity to elevate your business. Register now, and let's grow together.

Suited 4 Success Etiquette Workshop a Success — Mr. Aondray

The Suited for Success Etiquette Workshop hosted by WalkWorthy Menswear in partnership with I MOGUL, Righteous Living Ministries, True Life Missionary Baptist Church, and Jaden Patterson Ministries, was an awesome success.

This engaging workshop was designed to empower young men ages 10 and up, with essential skills to be successful and enhance their overall style.

The participants of the workshop were able to learn from leaders in their community on the basics of tying bowties, neckties, and fold-pocket handkerchiefs for their suit jackets. We be-

lieve that mastering these techniques is an important part of young men's etiquette and understanding the significance of dressing for success. Many sponsors and volunteers contributed to the event which helped with an amazing turnout.

Mr. Aondray Worthy is asking those interested in bringing the Suited 4 Success Etiquette Workshop to their communities, to contact him at nowwalkworthy@gmail.com or 517-862-4899.

#DressForSuccess #EtiquetteWorkshop #EmpoweringYoungMen

#walkworthymenswear #Suited4Success

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