CAWLM December 2017

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GETTING INTO THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT BY GIVING BACK

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pallet designs

IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE

The LaMacchia Family Bridget and Kathleen’s mother-daughter, caregiving duo tends to seniors and the elderly at Comfort Keepers

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DECEMBER ON THE COVER 8

Giving Back

5

Good News

16 Fashion & Beauty

6

The Williamston Theatre

17 Peppermint Paddy Martini 24 Local Women

20 The LaMacchia Family

15 Reflections

25 DIY Pallet Designs

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30 It's a Wonderful Life

10 Evergreens Make "Scents"

27 Tri-County Events

IN THIS ISSUE

12 How to Change Your Life Instantly

29 Nonprofit Profile

14 Holiday Feature

31 My Community

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From the Publisher

DECEMBER 2017

Careers for Consideration

26 Recipe

On the cover: Kathleen and Bridget | Exclusive cover photography by Mary Gajda

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221 W Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933 Phone: (517) 203-0123 • Fax: (517) 203-3334 Email: info@cawlm.com CAWLM.COM

ISSUE XI • VOLUME XII PUBLISHER Tiffany Dowling EDITOR Kelly Mazurkiewicz SALES MANAGER Jennifer Hodges MEDIA MANAGER Jill Bailey ACCOUNT MANAGERS Austin Ashley Megan Fleming Manny Garcia COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Ami Iceman-Haueter ART DIRECTOR Mark Warner PUBLICATION DESIGNER Angela Carlone PUBLICATION PHOTOGRAPHER Mary Gajda GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Kerry Hidlay Heather Thielking WEB MANAGER Skylar Kohagen EVENT CALENDAR MANAGER Jaime Hardesty CONTRIBUTORS Teece Aronin Jill Bailey Cathy Blatnik Susan Combs Deidre Davis Ellen Dowling Melissa Dowrick Caitie Eddy

Dawn Gorman Kristopher Johnson Lisa Kost Catrice Lane Adam Lansdell Kristine Richmond Kim Shapiro

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

Let’s Work Together to End the Stigma Welcome to the holidays. Many of you are preparing to cross names off your shopping list, deck the halls and celebrate with friends and family. This season, I have been moved to write about some of the difficulties many go through over the holidays. In fact, a lot of people are facing challenges that we may not even know about. And my heart goes out to them.

The past few months have been pretty heavy. International and national news have been difficult to process. Mother Nature has been relentless and political discussion, depressing. Even Sexual harassment allegations have flooded news cycles, making it harder to process the overall distress.

Although it has been extremely positive that women are coming forward to express #MeToo, it upsets me to think there was ever a time in our culture when we accepted predatory abuses as “good ol’ boy” activities. It is time to discuss these behaviors and instill boundaries into the boys and men of the next generation.

Locally, our community is reeling from addiction. Recently, I was forced to dive into this issue head on. I’m a little embarrassed to admit I didn’t really understand addiction and felt that it was more of a behavior issue. I could never truly understand why someone didn’t just stop in the face of such terrible consequences.

I hate the idea I was a part of a stigma that is pervasive in our society. We are quick to lock people up rather than treat their illness. And let’s be clear — addiction is an illness. What I have learned is that this brain disorder acts like an allergy, putting the substances that others can use casually into a compulsive situation. An addict’s brain tells them they need to have the substance on an instinctual level and is prioritized over everything else.

This illness creates negative circumstances for them, their friends and their families. The only way to deal with this is through help from the medical community. Unfortunately, we have such negative opinions about those that are suffering that it’s difficult to get them the treatment they need. Even worse, these individuals often wind up in a legal system which doesn’t help.

My hope is, if you’re personally dealing with this illness or you’re a codependent friend or family member, you should know you’re not alone.

We’ll work together to end this stigma and fight for the resources needed to help the millions of individuals that struggle each and every day.

Warmest wishes for a healthy holiday season,

Tiffany Dowling | Publisher 4

DECEMBER 2017

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WE’D LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU! Do you have a business or personal milestone announcement relevant to women of Clinton, Eaton and Ingham counties?

Please submit it to info@cawlm.com by the first of the month prior to the issue you wish it to be printed in. CAWLM reserves the right to edit all submissions for style, grammar and length. We look forward to sharing your good news!

The Runway celebrates 3RD anniversary The Runway, a fashion incubator, celebrated its 3rd anniversary on Oct. 19 with an evening of fashion and fun, during a soiree in downtown Lansing. Attendees experienced the latest fashions from Bad Latitude, The Ninety6, Timosha and Britt Houze, perused a pop-up shop after the show and enjoyed local painter Jennifer Jean’s live, on-site painting. Hors d'oeuvres were served courtesy of a new local restaurant, EnVie. The Runway is located at 300 S. Washington Square, Suite 100, in the former historic Knapp’s department store, which is now the Knapp’s Centre.

The Runway is an economic initiative in downtown Lansing. The first of its kind in Michigan, the project’s primary goal is to support evolving fashion entrepreneurs in establishing and growing their business. For more information, contact the Runway at runwaylansing.com.

Mid-Michigan Rotary Clubs gather to promote eradicating polio Five Mid-Michigan Rotary Clubs gathered at the Sun Theater in Williamston, Mich. on Sunday, Oct. 22 for the Mid-Michigan Rotary Polio Eradication event. It is the goal of Rotary Clubs across the world to eradicate polio, a crippling disease of which 10 cases have been reported this year – reduced from 345,000 cases in 1988.

violinist Itzhak Perlman, who was stricken with polio as a child. A discussion with polio survivors followed the movie, “The Five Pennies”, about a real-life bandleader played by Danny Kaye, whose daughter contracted polio before Jonas Salk invented the polio vaccine.

The event was sponsored by the following Rotary Clubs: Delta-Waverly, East Lansing, Haslett-Okemos, Lansing and Williamston Sunrise.

The event at Sun Theatre was highlighted by a special video message from world-renowned

McLaren’s Deidra Wilson named to Crain’s 2017 ‘40 under 40’ list Deidra A. Wilson, MPH, vice president of government relations for the McLaren Health Care Corporation, has been named to the prestigious 40 Under 40 List by Crain’s Detroit Business.

“This honor is readily deserved, as Deidra has accomplished much as a health care policy professional and leader,” said Gregory Lane, McLaren

Health Care’s senior vice president and chief administrative officer. “In her first two years at McLaren, she has already built a strong and dynamic culture of open communication in our governmental interactions. We look forward to her continued leadership and congratulate her on this recognition.”

Wilson oversees government affairs for the system and its 19 subsidiaries. She has established operations for advocacy at the state and federal levels, oversees a political action committee and manages grant writing. Wilson cultivates positive relationships with legislators, policymakers, industry leaders and the public for contributing to sound, health care policies.

Before joining McLaren, Wilson spent 11 years at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, where she attained the position of director of state government relations and was a senior member of the organization’s government-affairs management team.

Wilson holds a Master of Public Health from the University of Michigan and a bachelor’s degree in political theory and constitutional democracy from Michigan State University’s James Madison College. She lives in Okemos with her husband and young son.

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FEATURE

Photo courtesy of Williamston Theatre

BY KRISTOPHER JOHNSON

From left to right: Tony Caselli, Chris Purchis, Emily Sutton-Smith, John Lepard

Williamston Theatre Transforms Small Town Arts Community When four theatre professionals based in Michigan started the Williamston Project in the spring of 2004, they envisioned the city of Williamston as the perfect place for a nonprofit theatre that would embody values of excellence and inclusion, while creating a sense of space and sustainability.

The project launched as the Williamston Theatre with its first full production in 2006: “Particular Additions” by Ed Simpson. Since then, this professional equity theatre has helped transform its community, providing more opportunities for Williamston and its art lovers.

Located at 122. S. Putnam St., the Williamston Theatre was founded by four professionals absorbed in the arts: John Lepard, the theatre’s executive director; Christine Purchis, managing director; Emily Sutton-Smith, development director; and Tony Caselli, the artistic director.

Part of the reason the founders chose to open a theatre in Williamston was because of the town’s locality. The variety of arts in a small town can be limited, but passion for the arts is no less vibrant when compared to bigger-city counterparts.

“Just because you’re in a small town, doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality … so we wanted to provide that to a small town, and we also wanted to provide another place for Michigan artists to work 6

DECEMBER 2017

and try to give them a reason to stay in the state,” said Caselli. “There’s a fabulous pool of talented artists, theatrical and otherwise — a lot of times, because the work isn’t there, they leave for somewhere else.”

With over 50 productions under his belt, Caselli’s main role is “putting together the product.” Having received his bachelor’s degree in theatre at Eastern Michigan University, Caselli’s career has earned him various accolades, including Wilde awards and being named Best Director by the Lansing State Journal, Detroit Free Press and more.

As a professional equity theatre, Williamston Theatre provides 80 jobs per year, finding most of its union and non-union talent within Michigan, including the Lansing and Flint areas. They have not only helped to transform artistic work throughout the state but also business development within the city of Williamston.

Sutton-Smith is an acclaimed actress, singer and producer, as well as the narrator of over 80 audiobooks. In her current role, she oversees the business and economic development of Williamston Theatre. Since 2006, the town has seen noticeable changes as theatergoers come for a performance but stay for the area.

“Approximately 11,000 people attend our performances each year, and that definitely has

an impact,” said Sutton-Smith. “It’s a complete experience — being able to dine, shop and attend a cultural event in one place. They may come for the [Williamston] Theatre, but they spend time shopping and dining here as well.”

“Beau Jest” is Williamston Theatre’s current and second production for their 2017-18 calendar, telling the tale of a young woman unable to introduce her boyfriend to her Jewish parents due to his heritage. From there, a plan is concocted and “things go horribly wrong,” leading the audience through a story of laughter and understanding.

“It’s a play very much about not being afraid to live your life and allowing other people to live theirs,” said Caselli. “At its heart, it’s a play about having the courage to be who you want to be … co-existing and thriving — I think that’s the heart of the play.”

Performances of “Beau Jest” began Nov. 16 and will run until Dec. 23. To learn more about Williamston Theatre, what’s next on stage and how to support, visit williamstontheatre.org.

Kristopher Johnson is a Communications Specialist at M3 Group, earning his bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University in 2015. While currently residing in Lansing, Kristopher will always be a native of Detroit. He enjoys volunteering, listening to others and musing over contrasting insights.

Kristopher is also fond of writing, keeping up with politics and watching too much story-driven anime.

REFLECTIONS

BY TEECE ARONIN plastic handbells. There was the following year when my brothers, who were much older than I, slipped out of sight and rang those bells so I could know Santa Claus had really come, and that I had missed catching him by mere seconds.

BELLS, BELLS, BELLS When you were growing up, what grabbed you most about the holidays? What memories have you clung on to after all these years?

Memorial Day when the sisters would commiserate as to whether anybody wanted coffee anyway, as the forecast called for temperatures in the 80s.

I’m going out on a snow-covered limb to guess that it wasn’t crystal napkin rings on your grandmother’s table or $100 bills pressed against your palm by your great uncle as he whispered, “This is just between us.” In fact, I’ll crawl even further out on my limb — all the way to where it bows and creaks — to guess that neither of those things were part of your holidays at all. Here are some things I remember:

I remember the artificial Christmas tree my parents bought — my brother was allergic to real firs — and the color-coated tips on the ends of the branches that corresponded with holes drilled into the trunk. If you inserted the branches correctly, you ended up with a perfectly shaped tree. My brother, who was also partly colorblind, was asked to sit out of the assembly process after the first year.

The giant coffee urn my mother and her sisters swapped amongst themselves as they rotated holiday duties. My mother might host Thanksgiving one year and would need the urn, then my Aunt Ruth would host Christmas and then she’d need the urn. We all stayed home on New Year’s Eve. Easter would hop along, and my Aunt Ki would need the urn, and then

Our house was very simple, a little run-down even, but with the rugs vacuumed, the furniture dusted, the leaf slipped into the dining table and the holiday table cloth smoothed over it, I felt as if I lived inside a gingerbread house. There were the sour cream cookies my mother baked only for Christmas, and the year when my favorite gift was a set of colorful,

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Then, something horrible happened. I grew up, and I felt lacking if my holiday spread wouldn’t inspire Norman Rockwell, or if my kids weren’t dazzled by every present under the tree — presents much more expensive than plastic handbells. Those were holidays when I didn’t have the energy to bake my mother’s sour cream cookies because I was too exhausted from trying to replicate some edible, gold concoction I’d seen in a magazine. But now, just in time for my kids to be well-grown, I’ve figured it out. The things that were important to me before should be important to me now: simplicity, family, imagination, belief and bells.

This year I will strive to keep it simple, even a little homely and humble, because that is where the heart of all winter holidays lies — for me and my child within, anyway.

Teece Aronin is a blogger and columnist. Teece writes a humor/health and wellness column for the Oakland Press and is the Featured Writer for October at TrueHumor.com. Her artwork is available at the Redbubble.com store, phylliswalter, and Teece seriously considers any request for workshops, coaching, and speaking engagements.

Read her blog at ChippedDemitasse.BlogSpot.com, contact her at paronin1@gmail.com and follow her on Twitter @taronin.

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FINANCIAL FACTS

BY DEIDRE DAVIS

Get into the holiday spirit by giving back The holiday season can mean a number of things to different people. While some may think of evergreens covered in snow, others may think of family get-togethers and hot cocoa around a warm fireplace. Chances are that whatever makes you think of the season will also bring a smile to your face; with this holiday cheer in mind, remember that the holidays are also a wonderful time to spread goodwill.

Helping someone in need is the gift that keeps on giving, especially during the holidays. The benefits of giving back to your community and local organizations are limitless. From social benefits like forming personal and professional connections, to emotional benefits that leave us with a feel-good sense of accomplishment, helping makes a difference. Here are a few ways in which you can get into the holiday spirit by giving back.

Donate One of the best ways to help others during the holidays is to make a donation. This can be a monetary gift to a local organization or charity, or it can be items such as food, clothing and furniture. The holiday season is an especially good time to do so since a number of organizations work to help many people and spread as much holiday cheer as they can.

A variety of donations can also be tax-deductible; by keeping track of your donations throughout the year, you can save money when tax season rolls

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around. To determine the tax deductibility of your donations, visit irs.gov or consult a tax advisor.

Some effective ways to donate: Monetary Donations One of the easiest ways to donate is through a monetary gift. Your gift to a charity or local organization need not be a hefty sum of money, because every little bit counts. Many nonprofits and charities are run on donations, so they will undoubtedly appreciate any help they can get. To make room for a contribution, try going out for lunch one fewer time per week or purchase ground coffee instead of buying it at a coffee shop.

You can also consider saving your change. Instead of keeping your loose change in your car’s cup holder or in a jar on your desk, try donating it once or twice per year as it builds up. You can even encourage your family and friends to participate as well.

Donations of Items Purging your home and closet of unwanted items such as clothing and furniture can also be a great way to start the new year. Even more important, however, is that it can help those in need. Not only will you gain a cleaner home, but someone else will gain important supplies that will help them get through the winter months to come.

Volunteer Making a positive impact on the lives of others doesn’t always need to involve money or things.

It can also come about through donating your time to a particular cause or organization. Think about the things you’re passionate about and use that to find a charity to support. For example, if you have a passion for animals, try looking for volunteer opportunities at your local animal shelter or pet store. Even committing a few hours per month can help with daily tasks and operations, especially during the winter months when stray animals need food and a warm place to stay.

Volunteering can also be a good team-building opportunity. Try gathering a group of friends, family or co-workers for a day of volunteering at a local organization. Not only will you make a big difference on the organization and those who benefit from it, but you will also create a memorable experience to share with those who play a part in your life.

The best part about giving back during the holiday season is that you have the opportunity to inspire others. Whether it’s the person who is on the receiving end of an act of kindness or a stranger who you’ve inspired, what you do can grow into something much bigger. Your kindness can begin a cycle of giving back, and from there, you will ensure that many others will feel the joy of the holidays going into the New Year.

Deidre Davis is the Chief Marketing Officer at MSU Federal Credit Union. MSUFCU’s headquarters are at 3777 West Road East Lansing, MI 48823. Contact Deidre at deidre.davis@ msufcu.org or (517) 664-7877.

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CAREERS FOR CONSIDERATION

BY ELLEN DOWLING specifically coming into this field, “they’ll be looking at going into facilities and maybe going to doctors’ offices and talking about their company and what they can offer. I sort of branched out from there, just because of the nature of our office. I would consider myself more of a hospice care consultant.”

I think that one of the reasons I do this [job] is that when my mom passed away, it was unexpected.

There are many layers to what Frazier does for Compassus. Besides providing education for medical offices, facilities and individuals about when hospice is appropriate and what Compassus offers, Frazier meets with families that are struggling and helps them cope as their loved ones are reaching the end of their life. Frazier is especially passionate about providing quality hospice care after dealing with the sudden loss of her mother.

Photo by Mary Gajda

“I think that one of the reasons I do this [job] is that when my mom passed away, it was unexpected.

She was young, so for me, I do this because my mom’s life didn’t end the way we wanted it to. We didn’t get to talk about things,” said Frazier. “That’s why this is such a passionate thing. Some people get involved with hospice because they had an experience with it and thought it was great — I got involved because I realized that I’m going to help so many people not experience or feel what my siblings and I felt.”

Katy Frazier, a hospice care consultant at Compassus Hospice.

HELPING FAMILIES PREPARE FOR THOSE FINAL MOMENTS Katy Frazier is perfectly suited for the job she holds today, although if she was told that she would be working in hospice care years ago, she probably wouldn’t have believed it. The mother of one started out by receiving her MBA in organizational development and marketing from Spring Arbor University in 1998, and she soon went into politics. After getting burned out working in downtown Lansing’s political scene, she entered pharmaceutical sales.

do next. When a friend found out about the situation, she reached out to Frazier and told her about an opening at Compassus Hospice (Compassus).

However, after massive downsizing in the industry, Frazier had to take a look at what she was going to

After being with Compassus for seven years, Frazier “wears different hats.” She said that for someone

“I never really thought about hospice. I thought I knew what hospice was and said, ‘Okay, well I’ll meet with the executive director [at the time] of the company in Lansing,’” said Frazier. “I talked to him about it, and I sort of settled backwards into it and, believe it or not, it has been phenomenal.”

Frazier refers to educating facilities and families on the benefits of hospice care as an emotional and passionate sell.

“You do feel like, even if it’s one life at a time, one person at a time or one family at a time, that you’re helping people. This is one of the things I’m wired for: helping people feel better and feel relief.”

Frazier implores everyone to learn about the sensational care that Compassus provides. Along with assistance with health care from the comfort of one’s home, they offer massage therapy, music therapy, pet therapy, emotional support, spiritual support and much more. Easing the discomfort associated with the transition to the end of life isn’t work that everyone is cut out for; for those passionate about helping others during a time when they most need it, this type of work may be the job for them.

Ellen Dowling is a student at Lansing Community College. She plans to transfer to a university where she intends on studying journalism. She loves photography, poetry, art and exploring the city she loves with her dog by her side.

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HOLIDAY FEATURE

Evergreens

BY RICK VUYST

It’s beginning to smell a lot like Christmas. What is the link between our Christmas emotions and the aroma of evergreen? Maybe it’s because smelling like a Fir tree is far better than smelling like a holiday ham. The essential oils of conifers and the gooey resins of pine make us think of the outdoors and fresh air. It is a holiday “scent-iment.” Their natural antibacterial qualities make us feel good about being around them. I still think, however, it is the childhood scent memory of fresh greens and the Christmas tree that is permanently locked in our minds. That aroma takes us back and provides warm memory recall. It just makes “scents” to incorporate evergreen into our holiday season.

MAKE “SCENTS”

Christmas just doesn’t feel right if the smell is off.

Even the artificial tree scenters that attempt to give a life-like tree an aroma can fall short smelling like a vehicle air freshener dangling or a last minute impulse candle purchase. Below are a list of evergreen options to properly incorporate an honest holiday smell.

Rick Vuyst is CEO of Flowerland, host of the Flowerland Show on NewsRadio WOOD 1300 and 106.9 FM as well as Mr. Green Thumb on WZZM TV 13.

DOUGLAS FIR

In my opinion, Pseudotsuga, known as Douglas Fir, has the sweetest aroma. A sweet smelling almost citrus smell makes it perfect for arrangement boughs, wreaths, roping or Christmas tree.

CEDAR

This giant forest tree from the West Coast and the greens generally are brought in from Oregon. Foliage, cones, and bark also have the scent of cedar. Look for cedar incense to burn for a stronger, more prominent scent.

BALSAM AND FRASER FIRS The true Firs (not like the Douglas mentioned above) like Balsam and Fraser are my favorites for holiday scents. A somewhat pungent yet pleasant aroma of resins and essential oils with great needle retention make these trees a “scent”-sational option for evoking aromatic memories at Christmas.

PINE

With Pine the aroma is not just a sentiment. I believe the nose sends a signal to the brain that Pine has healing powers.

DID YOU KNOW? In Japan, going for a therapeutic walk in the woods is known as forest bathing and “taking in the atmosphere of the forest.” I read often how this practice has been studied for its ability to ease stress. Additionally, early explorers of the new world learned from Native Americans the value of pine needles boiled in water, as a sailors pine tea contained both vitamin C and antioxidants.

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DECEMBER 2017

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QUEEN OF THE ROAD

BY LISA KOST

HOW TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE INSTANTLY The next time you invest in a gift, a new product or the stock market, I want you to stop and think about your friends. That’s right, your friends. The ones who show up when you need them. The ones who count.

You may be surprised to discover you can count your friends on both hands; if you are lucky, you are blessed with around 20. Some you see often, but the others could be the your “way back” friends. You know, friends who don’t get enough of your time, but still hold your heart close to theirs.

Those friends are forever, with an uncanny ability to see you for who you really are and love you anyway. In fact, Maya Angelou suggests there are four questions we are all unconsciously asking of our friends all the time: 1. Do you see me?

2. Do you care that I’m here?

3. Am I enough for you, or do you need me to be better in some way?

4. Can I tell that I’m special to you by the way that you look at me?

The last one is personal. I know firsthand how it feels to not feel special to someone. I also know I

am guilty of not looking at others the way I should, especially those I really love. I even fail to look at myself with loving eyes at times.

normal irritations that come with traveling and knowing one another so long, we left Charleston knowing we were heard, understood and loved.

It’s easy to sleepwalk through life: a meeting to attend, calls to return, laundry to get to and dinner to fix. You know the drill. Soon, the habit of not being present spills over into the moments you’re really meant to be present for. I made progress this year. I made new and exciting friends, I showed up when invited, I took better care of myself and I tried hard to always “see” other people.

My wish for you this holiday season is that you are surrounded by people just like my friends, and may you give your family and each person you meet, old and new friends alike, the most valuable present you can give – yourself!

In October, I made a conscious decision to visit Charleston with four of my sorority sisters from Michigan State University. We rode bikes around the city, learned about its dark history and showered ourselves with art, architecture, a few too many glasses of wine and local food. Although we loved that weekend, we relished the moments we had to listen to each other’s life stories. We listened, we laughed – a lot – and we cried.

Our lives have not gone untouched by pain. Our hearts rejoiced for the good we still saw in each other and broke for those who have suffered and survived. We saw each other and, despite the small,

It takes practice. It takes patience. It takes presence.

It takes practice. It takes patience. It takes presence. Believe me, it’s not always easy. But each time you do, you will see your life change – for the better – instantly.

Lisa Allen Kost was bitten by the travel bug at an early age. Growing up an “Army Brat” she has lived abroad and is always eager to book her next trip — no matter the destination. When she is not traveling, Allen-Kost calls Okemos home and is a commercial realtor with CBRE|Martin. Her favorite travel companions are her husband, Jim and their children.

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DECEMBER 2017

ENTERTAINMENT ALLEY

BY TAYLOR KELSAW

Where the Heart is Happy Holidays! Imagine that feeling your heart reacts to when you give, receive or watch someone receive a special gift. It may be small, even inexpensive, but it mattered. Where would we be without the simple things in life that surround our hearts with joy? The holidays are filled with important reminders of our own histories. Isn’t it great that we get to revisit memories through photos and decorations of holidays past? Our legacies are long, and we must use our “heart time,” as I like to call it, to share with our family and friends our fondest moments with each other.

We gather together with family and friends, and we eat great foods that are smothered with the goodness of our ancestral, gastronomical mental books — you know, just how grandma used to make from memory because it was all in her head.

I love cooking and, especially at this time of the year, my heart enjoys the warmth of the kitchen combined with the smells of annual delight. Today, our digital world allows us to post our reactions and feelings, in real time and right into the homes of others.

Holiday movies have been a great relaxing staple in our home during this time of the year, mostly because it was a part of my childhood. Hollywood knows to fill this space in a family’s holiday with the major releases of winter blockbusters. We patrons, expect their cash cow to “bring it,” because we love this season, and our hearts are invested in the escapism of it. Some films I look forward to this month include “Star Wars: The Last Jedi,” “The Greatest Showman,” with Hugh Jackman as P.T. Barnum and “All the Money in the World,” the real-life story about the kidnapping of John Paul Getty, III. I know that last item sounds not in the spirit, but the film has been said to be filled with love shown through heart-pounding, familial support.

Our hearts must also address those affected by tragedy; and this year our planet has been hit hard with devastating hurricanes, floods, wildfires and earthquakes that took away the lives, homes and personal belongings of thousands. The panic and fear weigh heavily on our hearts, as we have watched in horror the continuing lack of help and rescue to these victims each day. We must look at and never forget seeing where the volleys called life have pivoted someone’s presence. Remember the loss of life of many pets left behind as well. Please, think about volunteering, donating and feeding the hungry, or whatever it is you don’t need, give to someone who does. Our hearts are the season.

Taylor Kelsaw is a former Californian, presently living in Michigan with his family. He is an actor, radio personality and creator/television producer of The Evan Michael Show. He has worked in marketing, film and television production for more than 30 years on such shows as Jeopardy!, Wheel of Fortune, Live with Kelly and Michael, Access Hollywood, 24, The Matrix I, II, III and The Oprah Winfrey Show.

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HOLIDAY FEATURE

BY MEGAN STUBBS It’s often said that giving feels better than receiving. While that may be true, it’s important to make sure that your giving isn't one sided, especially in relationships, romantic or otherwise.

One of the key components to any relationship is the ability to have a functioning give and take system. While this doesn’t necessarily have to be an exchange of goods, it’s about having reciprocity for the effort you put forth. Here are some tips to keep in mind regarding the balance in your relationship.

ASK FOR IT Say you have been struggling with keeping up the housework, meals and being present during book club. If your partner would take on a few household tasks, that would really help lighten your load and allow you to breath easier. Ask them for help! You are in a partnership together and chances are they aren’t a mind reader. Communicate to them what is going on in the situation and ask them to take on some new tasks. If you’re on the other side of this equation and you see a shift in your partner or see them struggling, ask them if they need help. Try to be mindful and really look at all of the ways your partner is giving and you might be amazed at all of the things that they take on.

TRUE BALANCE While it’s important to have a working give and take system set up, it doesn’t necessarily have to be an equitable distribution of tasks. This isn’t where you say, “I did laundry five times in a row, now its

your turn to do it five times in a row.” Take stock of all of the things you do for your partner and all of the things they give back.

As long as there aren’t any glaring discrepancies in your relationship balance, you’re doing OK. And if you happen to see that there has been an imbalance for quite some time (without attribution to things like new work projects, new obligations or life situations arise) speak up. Work toward what your normal balance is with your partner.

GRATITUDE Be thankful for your partner and the efforts they put forth. Chances are, they are doing the best

they can with what they have. If you’re feeling a little grumbly, or you don’t think that they “get it,” make an effort to find out what each of your love languages is. Because we often express love in the way we receive it, it could just be that you two are speaking two different languages. Learn what speaks best to your partner and do your best to show how much you care about them.

Finding balance in your relationship will likely look different than what your friends have in their existing relationships and that is OK. Do what works best for you and find joy in both giving and receiving this holiday season and beyond.

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DECEMBER 2017

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Truman, a deaf St. Bernard

A PET'S TALE

BY JILL BAILEY

Photo courtesy of Megan Fleming

are just as effective as verbal cues. For example, I’ve taught my dog to sit just by holding my index finger up.

Remember that in training, we don’t start with the verbal cue but with the behavior: Once you are getting the desired behavior, you can add a visual cue just as easily as a verbal one. Also, you must keep them on a leash or in a fenced in area at all times. Although I would recommend this with any dog, you have to be more cognizant of this when working with a deaf dog.

HELPING DEAF DOGS LIVE LONG & HAPPY LIVES

Every other month, our pet expert and Canine Coaches dog trainer, Jill Bailey, will answer your pet questions.

Email her at jill@m3group.biz. For more information on Canine Coaches visit caninecoaches.com.

I recently had a friend’s family adopt a deaf dog, and she asked me why I have never written a column about dogs with special needs. Honestly, it’s because I don’t have a lot of knowledge in that area, but I felt it was time for a change. As a result, I’ve researched what causes deafness in dogs and how to work with deaf dogs because of my friend’s encouragement.

There are many things that can cause deafness in dogs, untreated and chronic ear infections, injury, old age, but in many cases it is hereditary, as many breeds are predisposed. As an owner or caregiver, discuss everything with your veterinarian to assure that you are treating any issue or problem you notice as soon as possible — the more information

Y

you can give your vet, the better they can treat it. If necessary, please seek the advice of a specialist.

Regardless of what caused your pup’s hearing loss, deaf dogs can live long and happy lives if you are prepared and willing to put in the time to work with the dog. A book that just came out this year on training deaf dogs is called, “Living with a Deaf Dog.” Like humans, a deaf dog can sometimes increase the sensitivity of their other senses due to the loss of one. It’s important to keep in mind that a deaf dog will not be able to respond to any verbal cues; I believe in positive-reinforcement training, so dogs can still learn to respond to hand cues, which

D FB

If you are ready to devote time, energy and love, you are ready for a new dog, regardless of the special needs that pup may have — all dogs need training. These are incredible creatures, and I’m in awe at what I continue to learn about them.

Consider adoption this holiday season and give a dog a forever home ... you won’t regret it.

I wanted to be sure to remind everyone that at this time of the year, when decorations are going up and family is celebrating, your animals will be a big part of the festivities! Many aspects of our holiday celebrations are toxic to dogs: chocolate, poinsettia, mistletoe, holly, potpourri, etc. Be sure to keep wires and ornaments out of your animal’s reach.

Follow the general rule that anything that isn't your dogs’ food or treats – they should not have it.

Have a safe and happy holiday season!

Jill Bailey is the Media Manager at M3 Group. Having a life-long love of dogs, Jill decided to get her training certification in 2012. Visit caninecoaches. com for more information.

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FASHION & BEAUTY

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Cold weather

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FASHIONS

We’ve reached that time of year where the parties seem to fill our calendars, and we are ready to celebrate the holiday season. The sweaters, furs, vests and jackets are in the front of our closets, ready to make their appearance. If you’re looking to mix things up a bit this year, Kellie’s Consignments has plenty to offer! The ladies at Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine and Kellie’s Consignments have partnered to bring you some new looks this holiday season.

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(1) BCBG top, $16; (2) silver necklace and earring set, $14; (3) Debbie Brooks handbag, $208.00; (4) statement necklace, $12; (5) silver earrings, $5; (6) beaded necklace, $60; (7) black coat, $35; (8) red dress, $16; (9) Michael Kors heel, $49; (10) silver bracelet, $8; (11) boot, $14; (12) jacket with fur trim, $44; (13) knit hat, $5; (14) tan cashmere scarf, $18 All available at Kellie’s Consignments.

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DECEMBER 2017

Indulge

HOLIDAY FEATURE

IN A SILENT NIGHTCAP

PEPPERMINT PADDY MARTINI makes 4 servings

Ingredients • 8 ounces irish cream liqueur • 2 ounces crème de cacao liqueur • 2 ounces vanilla vodka • 2 ounces heavy cream • 1/4 teaspoon pure peppermint extract Directions Fill cocktail shaker 1/3 full with ice. Add ingredients; shake until well mixed and chilled. Strain into martini glasses.

Top each with a dollop of peppermint whipped cream, if desired.

PEPPERMINT WHIPPED CREAM makes about 2 cups

Ingredients • 1 cup heavy cream • 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar • 1/4 teaspoon pure peppermint extract Directions Beat heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar and pure peppermint extract in medium bowl with electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.

Serving suggestion: Wet outside rim of martini glass with water or peppermint extract. Dip glass in coarse sugar to lightly coat.

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TIFFANY DOWLING M3 GROUP Tiffany Dowling is the President and CEO of M3 Group, a full-service branding and publications agency. Since founding M3 Group more than 15 years ago, the full-service branding and publications agency has received numerous awards and works with an influential client base. In addition to running M3 Group, Dowling publishes Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine, Greater Lansing Business Monthly and ing Magazine.

Dowling is passionate about sharing positive news, empowering women and local businesses to reach their full potential and being an active member of the community. Even when she’s working with clients across the nation, Dowling is on a mission to show the world that there’s no place as great as mid-Michigan.

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DECEMBER 2017

HOST

Tune in to join Tiffany Dowling and co-hosts April Clobes, Molly Chan, Anne Craft and Laurie Nash as they give their take on all things mid-Michigan. These business leaders will talk about it all and there’s no holding back, from lifestyle and health trends to education and entertainment. You never know what they’ll talk about next.

FEATUREDCO-HOSTS APRIL M. CLOBES MSUFCU April Clobes joined Michigan State University Federal Credit Union in 1996. After moving through the organization from a marketing specialist, to management and executive positions, she became President/CEO in 2015. Clobes is an active leader on several community and university boards. Clobes has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing from Michigan State University, a Master of Arts degree from Michigan State University in Advertising, and a Master of Business Administration from Western Michigan University. In 2013, Clobes was named a Top Woman to Watch by the Credit Union Times; this honor is awarded to women who are reshaping the credit union industry throughout the country. In 2016, she received the Detroit Free Press Leadership Award. MSUFCU has an asset size of over $3.56 billion, over 235,000 members worldwide, and more than 750 employees.

MOLLY CHAN ALLIANCE PAYMENT SOLUTIONS Molly Chan morphed from a full-time litigator to part-time lawyer, and now acts as President and CEO of three area businesses, Alliance Payment Solutions, HEAT and JoyRide Pedal Tours. As the President and Chief Executive Officer, Chan sets the standard for all of her companies. Chan is a great visionary who sees the trends of the future often before they come to fruition. Chan’s core values of excellence, trust and integrity permeates throughout each of the organizations. Chan has grown each of her companies by embracing the leadership role with a focus on delivering outstanding services and products and showing her staff and clients endless appreciation.

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ANNE CRAFT MICHIGAN VIRTUAL Anne Craft is passionate about education, leadership and telling a great story, which makes being the Executive Director of Marketing and Communications for Michigan Virtual her perfect fit. Before working at Michigan Virtual, Craft earned a master’s degree at Michigan State University, taught high school for ten years, worked in media sales and owned and operated a digital marketing firm.

Though her professional career is varied, Craft’s commitment to being an agent of positive change and finding joy in every day permeate her work and life.

LAURIE NASH ANOTHER LOOK HAIR INSTITUTE Another Look Hair Institute opened in the 1960’s, led by Laurie Nash’s grandpa, Pete, and followed by her dad, Rick. When Nash continued the family tradition in 1991, she noticed that the industry had transformed, and women were much more in need of hair growth and thinning options. Nash developed Image Day Spa, a relaxation healing spa that offers hair systems, hair stimulation growth treatments, massage, reflexology, reiki, facials, and skin and hair care. Due to the continuous growth of Another Look Hair Institute, a second location has very recently opened within the new Sparrow Hospital Herbert Herman Cancer Center.

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Photo by Mary Gajda

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DECEMBER 2017

COVER STORY

KATHLEEN AND BRIDGET

LAMACCHIA

FAMILY FIRST. ALWAYS.

BY AMI ICEMAN-HAUETER People in life scarcely get the chance to recognize their true calling; but for Bridget LaMacchia, she has not only found her place, she also shares her passion with her daughter, Kathleen, as well as her husband, Thomas, and son, Anthony. Together the family works side-by-side to bring comfort and peace to others in times of need as they run their company, Comfort Keepers.

“When my parents passed away, I started taking care of my father’s relative to help her and quit my job to stay home and care for her. She moved in with us and, from there, I just realized I was doing a lot to help the company we had brought in to help, and I just knew I needed to do this for a living. I just knew this is what I wanted to do with my life,” Bridget said. “Everything just fell into place, and I never had a question. When we started, I never second guessed myself.”

“A lot of people were telling her how good she was at it — family, friends, everyone could see it,” Kathleen added.

Photo by Mary Gajda

Bridget and Thomas opened the franchise location in 2001 to bring the families they serve a new level of comfort and care. Comfort Keepers provides care services and living assistance to senior citizens and individuals with a disability, giving them the opportunity to live as independently and comfortably as possible.

you answers. Even if we aren’t the answer, we want to give people the information they need to make the right choices. A lot of times, we can find a way to help. When people call us, they don’t always know what to do, but our family is here to help.”

Bridget and Thomas own the franchise, but Kathleen and Anthony play a large part in Comfort Keepers’ success. They all agree that what makes the company different is that family is truly at the heart of everything they do.

This family is anything but ordinary. Their passion and kindness are palpable the second you meet them, and each one shares Bridget’s passion in their own way. Kathleen admires her mother especially, and she has found ways to support her mother’s dream while making it her own to support the company’s success.

“When you call, you talk to us,” Thomas said. “You don’t get pushed around to different people; you talk to one of the four of us, and we work to give

“There are not many people that are lucky enough to do the things they were chosen to do,” Kathleen said. “Bridget was born to do this. There is no

doubt in my mind. It amazes me, and I envy her in a lot of ways. I’ll never achieve what she has for these families, but I know I can make a difference here. And we are making a difference as a family.

We are there for people when they need us most,” Thomas said.

What it always comes down to, for this family, is being there – for each other, their employees and their clients, most of all.

“We are such a close-knit family, and we show our appreciation. We like to make sure we express that same feeling to our staff. We go all out for our team, especially around the holidays. We also make sure to share that with our clients,” Bridget said. “We send cards and gift baskets and keep CAWLM.COM

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Photo by Mary Gajda

COVER STORY

them engaged. It means a lot to us that we let people know what they mean to us.”

be part of a community, not an anonymous cog,” Anthony added.

“Some of our clients have no family, but we try to make the holidays special for them — really, any day is special for them – so, they’re given a present to unwrap and a personalized card. It’s the little things like that which make us different.

Even for our staff, we tend to go overboard, but that’s just who we are,” Thomas added.

But they don’t just give back to the community, they like to show their support for their caregivers as well. This family knows that without the hard work and compassion of their team, they wouldn’t be where they are today.

This family is not short on passion, but even more so, they bring to the table an array of talents.

While Bridget and Kathleen bring passion and compassion to the table, Thomas and Anthony bring support and commitment, and together they are an unstoppable force.

Kathleen, Anthony and their sister Christina Panvino grew up understanding the value of putting others first and being an active part of the community. This is a lesson the pair brings back to their work at Comfort Keepers.

For me, the best part of my job is giving back to the community I grew up in.

– Kathleen Lamacchia

“We thank God for our caregivers. They are the backbone of the company. They are the silent heroes to these families,” Thomas said.

“For me, the best part of my job is giving back to the community I grew up in,” Kathleen said. “I love to support small businesses, and I have a soft spot for the elderly and find ways to give back. It all goes together.”

Never one to shy away from a party, with event planning in her veins, Kathleen ensures the team feels the love, and Bridget is just as committed.

This industry can be draining at times, but when a family works together and supports their team, it can change everything.

“We run the company to make a difference, but we are making a difference in the community we grew up in. You can see the impact. I wanted to

“We keep all the thank you notes from clients,” Thomas said. “We have hundreds now and we keep them all because it’s an amazing gift to

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DECEMBER 2017

be able to go through and read them. There are struggles just like any business, but in this business, sometimes it’s more than that. You do it for the families, and to go back through those reminds us we are on the right track.”

With an entrepreneurial spark living in all of them, Comfort Keepers has four passionate leaders committed to the best service, and are always looking for the next best way to serve their community.

“We are all entrepreneurs,” Kathleen said. “I have worked for other people and had great mentors, but it’s different when you can actually see your ideas in action, to have someone say we trust your judgment and you can implement your ideas. As a family, we can see that growth, and when the four of us can connect and say these are our principles and our values, we can all go forward together.”

But for the LaMacchia family, it’s not just about their family, it’s about serving families.

“What we aim to do is to let families be families without the worry,” Thomas said.

Ami Iceman-Haueter is the Brand Manager at M3 Group. Iceman-Haueter is a graduate of Michigan State University with a bachelors in creative advertising.

ADVERTISEMENT

REINVENTING LIFE AFTER TRAGEDY As a wife, mother and professional, Suzanne Reiner’s life took a major turn when her car was struck from behind in the winter of 2008. Although she was left with multiple physical injuries, it was the injuries that Suzanne wasn’t initially aware of that started causing major problems. Headaches, memory impairment, and her inability to sit in front of a computer screen for prolonged periods of time, made a job she had previously done with ease, impossible. As a result, she was unable to work.

Home life was forever changed as well.

“Your family goes through the head injury with you and they remember who you used to be, compared to who you are now,” Suzanne added.

Suzanne recalls, “I had lost my dictionary, I had difficulties speaking and I was mixing syllables with different words together, such as saying mushmallow when I meant marshmallow. My eyes were no longer working correctly, I had to relearn how to use my eyes.”

This was when she and her doctors agreed she needed some additional help and referred her to Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center.

Suzanne was diagnosed with Post-Concussion Syndrome. She came to Origami for a variety of rehabilitation services including psychology, vision, occupational, physical and speech therapies. At Origami, Suzanne found the support and resources she needed to, “reinvent herself.”

After three years of therapy, Suzanne made a “leap of faith” as she calls it and started a new adventure at Jackson National.

“Origami Rehab is the reason I am back at work in my current capacity. I was getting the right help at the right time.

I love Origami.”

Now, seven years later she recalls going through the rehabilitation process, “Origami is the reason I am back to work in my current capacity. I was getting the right help, at the right time.”

With a new job and new perspective, Suzanne reflects on her journey, “I laugh a lot more now.

I don’t take myself too seriously. You kind of see who you were before your injury, and then look at who you are going to be. I am much more forgiving of other people now.”

Suzanne’s positive attitude and focus are what she believes got her through the challenges she faced during her recovery. “This is tough, I can’t go back and change things, not focusing on who I used to be, allowed me to focus on reinventing myself.”

Origami is a non-profit organization resulting from an alliance between Peckham, Inc. and Michigan State University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine. Origami’s dynamic and innovative treatment team provides comprehensive and holistic rehabilitation for survivors of mild to severe brain injury and their families. For more information, please contact 517-336-6060 or info@origamirehab.org.

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LOCAL WOMEN

HEATHER SCHMIDT

Photo by Mary Gajda

Baking Life Better

BY CAITIE EDDY “It all started with my grandma, making Christmas cookies,” said Heather Schmidt of Confectionately Yours Bakery.

Founded in 2012, Confectionately Yours Bakery is home to a multitude of sweet aromas, baked treats and love in every bite. From dessert bars and gift baskets to wedding cakes, cake pops, apple pie slabs, cinnamon rolls and more, this bakery has all of Lansing’s baking needs covered. What keeps Confectionately Yours unique, however, is the attention to detail — each order is specially made and customized to the customer’s unique needs.

Taste is, of course, an important factor, and if it doesn’t taste good, it doesn’t go out. Products that look pretty come easily to Confectionately Yours Bakery, but taste is as equally important to staying ahead of its competitors. Schmidt has been able to share her passion for entrepreneurship with her children.

“I wanted to show them you work hard and do what you love and always have passion,” said Schmidt.

“You may not get rich, but you’ll have a good quality of life.”

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Being a mom and a business woman, life can get a little hectic. Thankfully, Schmidt has a great support group consisting of her husband and kids, parents and friends. “My husband and I are a great team.” Schmidt said. “And I have an old-fashioned day planner! I have to write everything down or else I’ll forget.”

Future goals for her bakery include opening a coffee shop for customers to sit down and enjoy her sweets, creating a more enjoyable time. Schmidt loves the customer service aspect of her job, and she hopes to offer even more of that personal touch with a possible coffee shop. It’s a next step, and Schmidt is ready for the challenge.

“Don’t let doubts creep in. Do something you’re passionate about — there’s always a way to do it,” said Schmidt. “Keep working, keep searching and keep dreaming. Always.”

Schmidt is no stranger to creating deliciousness. In addition to a love for her grandma’s cookies, she worked in bakeries across Michigan and Rhode Island for 18 years before opening her own kitchenbased practice. She also baked for friends and family and, eventually, her talents motivated her to

move her business ideas forward. She operates the boutique bakery from the licensed kitchen within her Dansville home, catering for weddings and parties all over Lansing to spread the cheer of the occasion through yummy treats.

But the main reasons Schmidt began her bakery is because she wanted to have a further sense of purpose in working with her hands, as well as to contribute more income to her family. With experience as a stayat-home mom, she also wanted to develop something more and for herself. Her experiences across the U.S. better informed her decision to take life in a special direction, perfectly for her.

For those aspiring to live their dreams, the last thing you want to do is to wait for the perfect time, according to Schmidt. She feels we need more female role models and business owners to show young girls what they can become if they have the work ethic and put in the time and energy.

“I say: do it.” Schmidt said, referring to bringing your passions to life. “Do your homework and know what you’re getting into … it is doable, and it is worth it.”

LIFESTYLE

BY CATRICE LANE Me: Christmas family time doesn’t get any better than that. Profound words from Cousin Eddie: “Come on Clarke, the night is young – they’re giving away free hot sandwiches at the blood bank.”

3) “Elf” – Any film that includes Will Ferrell will make it to my favorite list. Will — like myself — has a playful, child-like sense of humor. While I can’t relate to someone that grew up thinking they’re an elf, I love his energy and sweet way of making ridiculous things seem funny. Elf’s version of swearing: “Son of a nutcracker.”

Me: I use the non-Christmas version.

2) “A Christmas Story” – All I want for Christmas is my Red Ryder BB riffle. Just consider this story my autobiography, with a few changes 1) I’m a female 2) I don’t stand outside in my pajamas 3) Replace the BB gun with a doll house. Most memorable line: “You’ll shoot your eye out.”

CHRISTMAS CREEP

Christmas Creep is a term used in merchandising to describe when merchants introduce Christmas themes prior to the traditional start date. I bring this topic up because I feel like the holiday season continues to start earlier each year. I shouldn’t be surprised, as the signs continue to surface more and more – retailers send out holiday ads in October, holiday references and ugly sweater pictures are randomly posted by Facebook friends in October and even our baristas are in on the madness. Last month, I listened to a loop of holiday music, scoped out a new Santa mug and ordered a peppermint stick latte, all before I finally put my Halloween costume in storage.

If you can’t tell by now, I'm the female scrooge. I’m the person that does a major eye roll when family members and friends brag about how great they are because most of their Christmas shopping is done or, even better, when your coworkers announce they are officially done with their shopping and are now focused on stocking stuffers with Secret Santa items.

I’m the person that grudgingly wishes that they add, “get a new life,” to the shopping list.

Nevertheless, in this issue of Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine, I will attempt to transform my attitude and join the Christmas Creep band wagon.

I THINK I LOVE CHRISTMAS?

I hate to admit it, but my memories of Christmas are limited. Most people recall family gift exchanges, ugly sweater contests and lighting candles for loved ones that have passed. My mind immediately goes back to a few funny lines from cliché Christmas movies over the past 15 years.

Maybe that’s my Christmas Creep inspiration. I can go back over my favorite holiday movie list and brag about my all-time greatest picks. Let’s see how my friends like it when I randomly post my holiday movie memes and quote cryptic movie lines to people that can’t remember the title of the film or the name of the actors. Or, one of my

proudest moments is rattling off my top films of all time in mere seconds, while others scramble to come up with a portion of a movie title. It may not be the most profound I-love-Christmas declaration, but I’m doing the best that I can.

FAVORITE MOVIE LIST

Everyone knows that there are only a few Christmas movies that matter, and the rest deserve to be recognized as classics. I hope my list doesn’t cause you to roll your eyes or secretly think about encouraging me to get a life. I’ll share a version of my best Christmas films now, in hopes of adding some holiday spark into my life.

6) “Scrooged” – Charles Dickens did a great job of challenging our views about how we celebrate Christmas with “A Christmas Carol,” showing us that the only way to celebrate Christmas is when we are at our best. But I must be honest, although he left us with a charming version of hope and selfless actions, Bill Murray does a great job of painting a modern-day picture of familiar challenges. My inspirational movie quote: “Don’t be one of those people who says Christmas is once a year. It can happen every day — you just got to want it.”

Me: This sort of sounds like the Christmas Creep.

5) “Gremlins” – Gizmo. Need I say more? Go ahead, roll your eyes – I know these monsters were gross and destructive. But only a great mind can turn a creepy animal into a successful conclusion.

My favorite line from this superstar: “Uh Oh.” 4) “National Lampoon’s Vegas Vacation” – Admit it; everyone can relate to wanting a Clarke Griswold-like personality as your dad, husband or brother in-law that has a million Christmas lights on the house, an embarrassing aunt and uncle that needs to turn his hearing aid up higher.

Don’t forget about the mooch, Cousin Eddie.

1) “A Charlie Brown Christmas” – The ultimate downer, my childhood friend, Mr. Charlie Brown. It’s a selfish pick of mine because I fell in love with this crew when I was a little girl. I remember staring at the TV, entertained by the ice-skating scenes and watching the entire peanuts gang try to help Charlie Brown find comfort and discover the true meaning of Christmas. Typical Peanuts line: “Good Grief.”

Me: I think that line sums up the true meaning of Christmas the best. Go check it out.

BE SOMEONE’S ANGEL

Obviously, I can’t end this article about Christmas without mentioning the world’s number one classic.

Timeless, inspirational and so much more: “It’s A Wonderful Life.” I didn’t add it to my top picks because this movie is in a category all its own.

Most people can relate to being overwhelmed by life, so maybe starting Christmas early can help bring more peace and joy to a situation. How different would the world be if we didn’t have the inspirational early starters around us?

Whatever your holiday memories, inspiration or accomplishments are – sharing them with others might be one of the few ways that they’re reminded how wonderful life can be. Best Quote Ever: “Every time a bell rings, an angel gets its wings.”

Me: I’m grateful for life, health, love and the people wise enough to know that being an inspiration to others can start at any time.

As always, thank you for following my journey. I hope you enjoyed my early Christmas cheer; I promise I won’t start so late next time. See you next year!

Catrice Lane is fun, sassy but serious when necessary. A Project Manager by trade and a loving, devoted friend by choice. Finding the person(s), place(s) and thing(s) that are destined for her life has always been her number one passion.

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RECIPE

assisted

Living with Heart

PECAN BALL

COOKIES FROM THE KITCHEN OF CATHY BLATNIK

Since my parents no longer live in the family home, many of their belongings went to different members of the family when we cleaned their house out in the summer of 2016. I was able to get a few recipe boxes with some of my mom’s handwritten recipes. Yes, it’s hard to think back that far; but in those many years before the internet and computers, recipes were written on recipe cards. This particular card had a plastic “sleeve” covering it, which makes me think she made them a lot.

We are grateful to share life's journey with your community.

3145 West Mt. Hope Ave., Lansing Phone: 517.485.5966 grandhavenlivingcenter.com

Assisted Living | Moments Memory Care | Respite Care

My mom is the one that instilled my love of baking. Every Christmas for many years, she would make me a dozen or so pecan balls. It meant so much to me that she did that! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does.

INGREDIENTS • • • • • • •

7/8 cup unsalted butter, softened 1/4 cup powdered sugar 2 cups white flour 1 cup finely chopped pecans 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 teaspoon cold water 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

DIRECTIONS

• Put the butter and powdered sugar in a medium bowl and beat with an electric mixer or by hand with a large spoon. Gradually add the flour, pecans, vanilla extract and water.

• Mix with a large spoon until the batter starts to form.

• Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

• Using the palms of your hands, roll into 30 equal-sized balls and place on an ungreased cookie sheet.

• Bake for 10-12 minutes.

• Remove from oven and let them sit on the cookie sheet for five minutes.

• In a small bowl, put in the 1/2 cup of powdered sugar.

While still warm, roll each pecan ball carefully and completely in powdered sugar.

• Store covered at room temperature.

enjoy!

A Leisure Living Managed Community www.leisure-living.com

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Cathy Blatnik is originally from Maryland, but has been living in the Midwest for more than 13 years. She has been "retired" from the paid workforce since 1996 to raise her family, which includes her husband, adult stepson, an adult daughter in college and a son in middle school. She has been baking and cooking for as long as she can remember in "Cathy's Kitchen." She is very excited to be able to share her recipes with other home cooks!

TRI-COUNTY EVENTS

EVENTS DECEMBER 1

Kellie’s Consignments’ Free Lunch Friday, Okemos Kellie’s Consignments invites you to shop, network and enjoy lunch at their colorful, exciting, 24,000-square-foot retail and consignment center.

Free Lunch Friday takes place on the first Friday of every month, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 5000 Marsh Road in Okemos. Visit kelliesconsignments.com for more information.

DECEMBER 5

Holiday Glitter & Applause, East Lansing The Arts Council of Greater Lansing brings together Lansing’s growing arts community to kick off the holiday season at its annual Holiday Glitter & Applause. Held at The University Club of MSU, Holiday Glitter & Applause traditionally welcomes more than 200 guests and serves as a celebration of the arts, as well as provides an opportunity to honor artists, arts supporters and leaders in the capital region with Applause Awards. Visit lansingarts.org to learn more about the Arts Council and their annual celebration.

DECEMBER 7

First Sunday Artz, Lansing Join the Lansing Mall every first Sunday of the month as Keys to Creativity takes over the Macy’s Court with many artist demonstrations, activities for kids and adults, music, dance and more. Visit lansingmall.com for more information.

Home Builders Association Toys for Tots Charity Dinner, Bath The Home Builders Association of Greater Lansing is teaming up with Farm Bureau Insurance to collect new, unwrapped toys during the holiday season, leading up to a Toys for Tots Holiday Dinner at Eagle Eye Golf Course at 6 p.m. Tickets will be $25 per person and each guest should bring a new, unwrapped toy. Sponsorship opportunities and more information can be found by visiting hbalansing.com.

DECEMBER 2-JANUARY 1

DECEMBER 9

DECEMBER 3

Turner-Dodge House Festival of Trees, Lansing Embrace the holiday spirit and join the friends of Turner-Dodge House and Lansing Parks and Recreation for the 6th Annual Festival of Trees. All three floors will feature as many as 60 trees decorated for the holidays. Money raised from the admission price will go toward projects to preserve and enhance the Turner-Dodge House. A tour of the trees is $5 per person, and children 12 and under are free. Call (517) 483-4220 for more information.

DECEMBER 4

In Search of Happiness & the Meaning of Life, East Lansing Many of us are in search of finding, keeping friends and finding out what we need to know that sustains us being happy. If you find yourself asking what the meaning of life is and how do we find an answer, these meetings are for you. During the meetings, members will read about and discuss the various ways that friendship, happiness and the meaning of life have been shared with each other our searches in the past, present and future. Meetings will be facilitated by Dr. Gary Stollak. Meetings are from 9:30 to 11 a.m. and are $20 for East Lansing members and $25 for non-members. Visit cityofeastlansing.com for more information.

Holiday Open House, Lansing You and your furry friend are sure to have fun at the Capital Area Humane Society’s annual Holiday Open House. You and your pet can take pictures with Santa and enjoy a huge bake sale full of delicious sweets and doggy treats. Adoption specials will be running all day for those looking for a new addition to their family. Visit cahs-lansing.org for more information.

DECEMBER 9

Yoga in the Mall, Lansing Relax and benefit from this free yoga class at 8 a.m. in the West Court of the Lansing Mall. All ages and abilities are welcome, and mats will be provided.

Visit lansingmall.com for more information.

DECEMBER 9

Mobile Adoption Event, Okemos Stop by the Okemos Soldan’s Pet Supply and adopt a homeless pet to be a new member of your family.

The Mobile Adoption Event is from 12 to 4 p.m.

Visit ac.ingham.org for further information and adoption events.

DECEMBER 13

Holiday Crafts Senior Discovery Group, Lansing Jane Reiter will be at Allen Neighborhood Center Market Place with the Senior Discovery, a group that meets every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Allen Market Place classroom. Ample parking

is available in the rear and east side of the building.

Light refreshments, information packets and good conversation will be provided.

DECEMBER 15-18

Christmas Decorating Contest, DeWitt Businesses and homes in the DeWitt area will be decking their homes for the holiday.

Those who enter are eligible to win a prize.

Visit dewittareacc.org for more information.

DECEMBER 20

Essential Oils Senior Discovery Group, Lansing Elizabeth Torres will be joining the Senior Discovery Group at the Allen Neighborhood Center Market Place and instructing them on the benefits and usage of essential oils. Meetings are from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Allen Market Place classroom.

DECEMBER 1-31

Wonderland of Lights, Lansing Thousands of lights create extraordinary animal exhibits and holiday displays at the 23rd Annual Wonderland of Lights. There will be cookies, crafts and animal encounters for the kids to enjoy. Wonderland of Lights is open on Thursdays through Sundays from 5 to 8 p.m. from Nov. 17 to Dec. 31. The zoo will not be open on Christmas day but will resume on Saturday, Dec. 26.

Visit potterparkzoo.org for more information.

CLINICS DECEMBER 5

Real Estate Investing Webinar, Lansing Are you interested in real estate investing and don’t know where to start? Join in on this webinar and learn real estate investing strategies such as fix and flip, buy and hold, short sale, foreclosures and multi-family.

You’ll also learn how to pay off your house in 10 years or less, and how estate investors fund real estate deals without your own money or credit. Visit eventbrite. com for more information and registration details.

DECEMBER 6

Perspectives on Pain: Lower Back, Charlotte Learn about the different techniques that can help support your back, presented by Dr. Robert Rolle, DC from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Lunch and light refreshments will be included for those who preregister by the Friday prior to the presentation. Please call (517) 541-5800, option 1 to register. Visit hgbhealth.com for more information.

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TRI-COUNTY EVENTS DECEMBER 11

WINS Breast Cancer Support Group, Lansing Those afflicted with breast cancer are welcome to join in on these monthly support group meetings where there will be education, speakers and support. These meetings are held in the Sparrow Professional Building, conference room E. For more information, call (517) 364-5471.

ARTS NOVEMBER 27 - DECEMBER 23

2017 Holiday Exhibition, Lansing Support local artists this giving season by shopping from a curated selection of contemporary fine art and modern crafts from over 100 Michigan makers and give a truly unique gift to your loved ones this year. Stop by the Lansing Art Gallery to shop at 119 N. Washington Square. Visit lansingartgallery.org for more information on artists and the Holiday Exhibition.

DECEMBER 3

“Gobsmacked!”, East Lansing Direct from sellout seasons in London, Hong Kong and Edinburgh comes the mind blowing vocal show, “Gobsmacked!”, the latest sensation from the UK. This next-generation a cappella show redefines the limits of the human voice. Featuring the reigning world champion beatboxer Ball-Zee and an international cast of world-class vocalists, “Gobsmacked!” weaves stories through all forms of a cappella from traditional street corner harmonies to cutting edge, multi-track live looping. Buy your ticket today and learn more by visiting whartoncenter.com.

DECEMBER 9

Handel’s “Messiah,” East Lansing Composed 276 years ago, “Messiah”, with its famous Hallelujah Chorus, continues to be one of the world’s most popular works.

Choral Union, University Chorale and State Singers share the stage to perform this powerful holiday tradition.

Visit whartoncenter.com for tickets and more information.

DECEMBER 10

Holiday Pops, East Lansing The Lansing Symphony is celebrating the most wonderful time of the year by bringing you an afternoon of timeless carols and festive tunes.

Hometown guests Demi Fragale and the MSU Youth Chorale join in on the fun for this Mid-Michigan community tradition. Fill yourself with the joy of the holidays and share it with friends and family. Visit whartoncenter.com for more information.

DECEMBER 12-17

“Finding Neverland,” East Lansing This Broadway hit is sure to capture the kid-at-heart.

Directed by visionary Tony award winner Diane Paulus and based on the critically acclaimed film, “Finding Neverland,” follow the story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters, Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. Spellbound by the boys’ enchanting make-believe adventures, he sets out to write a play to astound London theatregoers. With a little bit of pixie dust and a lot of faith, Barrie takes this monumental leap, leaving his old world behind for Neverland, where nothing is impossible and the wonder of childhood lasts forever. Visit whartoncenter.com for tickets.

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As Seen On:

NONPROFIT PROFILE

BY KRISTOPHER JOHNSON Michigan BluesFest. From the executive board itself to residents from all walks of life who find a home in what MICA represents, the community ultimately helps keep this train running on smooth tracks.

“It’s always a challenge getting volunteers: people come and go, get out of school, get a new job.

But we've always had lots of great volunteers and sponsors to help our efforts to showcase Michigan artists,” Terry said.

AN OLD TOWN LEGACY Michigan Institute for Contemporary Art thrives in historic Lansing district The historic Old Town in Lansing is a vibrant area of constant transformation, where neighborhoods change from ghost towns to driving some of the most creative projects in mid-Michigan. But it didn’t get that way overnight.

Founded in 1984, the Michigan Institute for Contemporary Art (MICA) and its gallery is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the power that creative works can play in community development. Old Town’s staple institution was co-

founded by Terry Terry, president of MICA’s board and CEO at MessageMakers, which offers creative communication services.

“Our goal is to continue to create an open space where people can come together, make new friends and, in the context of the arts, begin conversations on how to make a greater community,” said Terry.

The organization also produces the annual Lansing JazzFest, as well as what is now known as the

For Terry, the visual arts have always served as a catalyst of change, in addition to its role in promoting fun and entertaining opportunities; this proves evident through MICA, its volunteers, sponsors and supporters, whether large or small.

“The arts are critical to quality of life. We’ve shown and demonstrated that,” Terry said. “Artists really can work magic, changing something rundown or older into something more. Those kinds of shifts, born from imagination, can really add to the prosperity of our community and region, as they always have.”

The Michigan Institute for Contemporary Art’s gallery is available for viewing by appointment; to schedule yours, please call their office at (517) 371-4600, or contact info@oldtownarts.org for additional opportunities to let the arts play a deeper role in your love for Lansing.

Online Gift Certiicates available.

Open 7 days and 6 nights a week.

creativewellness.net 2045 Asher Court East Lansing, MI 48823

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DIY QUICK CRAFTS

BY MELISSA DOWRICK

Wooden Pallet Signs 2. Drill together to create your board, unless you’ve purchased an already-made board.

There are quite a few stores or at-home parties you can participate in to create the perfect wood pallet sign. I’ve done both and they are a lot of fun. You get the wood pallet and can pick from a variety of shapes, wood stains and paints. They will also provide you with your sticker stencil for your preferred design, but even without their professional assistance, you can find a way to try it at home! So, if you’re feeling daring, give it a try!

3. Stain or paint the background and let dry.

4. Purchase a stencil online or freehand your own drawing.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED • Wood • Drill • Stencil – find at any craft store or freehand your design! Or if you can print your own sticker stencils, then you’re all set!

• Stain and a rag • Paint • Paint brushes • Hardware for hanging

5. Tape stencil down with painter’s tape and carefully paint your desired colors. Try dabbing the paint softly by the corners of the stencil so it does not bleed through and use a soft stroke around the edge when you are finished painting.

HOW TO 1. Buy wood planks from a hardware store. Or, for an easier option, purchase pre-made wood from a craft store. You can get them in different shapes.

6. Let completely dry. If you have more stencils, then keep going until you’re finished. Once the paint has dried, you can layer the stencil images so they overlap, as well to create the perfect picture.

7. Attach hardware.

POTTER PARK MEGAN

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Melissa Dowrick is a MSU graduate and M3 Group event planner. She is a wife, dog mom of two and a first-time mother. Her favorite season is fall and she loves fashion. She embraces all the good things because life is too short to be unhappy!

MY COMMUNITY MASON STUDENTS ENJOY TOUR FOR CAREERS IN ENERGY WEEK DTE Energy, Consumers Energy and the Lansing Board of Water & Light (BWL) have partnered together to provide Michigan students an up-close look at vibrant career paths with the fourth annual Careers in Energy Week from Oct. 16-20, proclaimed

by Gov. Rick Snyder. On Friday, Oct. 20, the BWL welcomed students from Mason High School for a tour through the construction and maintenance facility, as well as live demonstrations from the welding and construction departments.

Mason students engage in lecture

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Mason students enjoy tour for careers in energy week

Mason students explore building

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MY COMMUNITY HOLT TRUNK OR TREAT

This family-friendly event was hosted on Sunday, Oct. 29, at Veterans Memorial Gardens on Aurelius Road in Holt. Local businesses and organizations joined together to provide a safe and fun way for children to enjoy the spirit of Halloween as the weekend ended. Costumes, treats and laughter were abundant, as families walked around the 5.5-acre park with a Veteran’s Memorial as its centerpiece.

PHOTOS PROVIDED Steven L. Marvin Staff

Steven L. Marvin

Steven L. Marvin Staff

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MY COMMUNITY SIXTH ANNUAL MASON DOGGIE TRICK OR TREAT HAS “GONE TO THE DOGS” Doggie Trick or Treat was hosted by the Mason Area Chamber of Commerce in downtown Mason on Saturday, Oct. 28. Various businesses downtown handed out dog treats to furry companions wearing costumes or special bandanas provided by Verizon Wireless Zone of Mason. The event was followed by a pet-costume contest.

PHOTOS PROVIDED Rylee and Kassie Rhodes and their dog Ivy

Nikki and Karen Fairbotham and their dogs Norbert, Fritz, and Chloe

Rose, Victoria, and Elizabeth Robbins and their dog Zippy with Debbra Hodgson and her dog Sunny

Beth Siple and her dog Harley

THANK YOU SPONSORS! 97.5 NOW FM • AF Group • Adams Outdoor • Auto-Owners Insurance • Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network • BRD Printing • CASE Credit Union • Ciesa Design • City of Lansing Parking Services • Comerica Bank • Cottage Inn Pizza • Davenport University • Dean Trailways • Delta Dental of Michigan, Ohio & Indiana • Delux Tents and Events • Dewpoint • Dickinson Wright PLLC • Dykema • EDGE Partnerships • Eyde Company • The Exchange Martini & Banquet Lounge • For Crepe Sake • Foster Swift Collins & Smith • FOX 47 WSYM • Gillespie Group • Grand Traverse Pie Company • Granger • Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau • Hi-Ball Crane of Lansing • i92.9 Lansing’s New Hits • Independent Bank • Insty-Prints Downtown • International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local #665 • J&H Family Stores-Trowbridge • Kositchek’s • L.O. Eye Care • Lake Trust Credit Union • Lansing Community College • Lansing Economic Area Partnership • Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority • Lansing Lions Club • Lansing Public Media • Lansing State Journal • M3 Group • Marshall Music • McLaren Greater Lansing • Meijer • Message Makers • Michigan Association of Broadcasters • Michigan Association of Counties • Michigan Education Trust • Michigan State Capitol Commission • Michigan Retailers Association • MSU Federal Credit Union • National Electrical Contractors Association • Northside Service Inc. • Playmakers • Radisson Lansing • R.E. Olds Foundation • Render Studios • Sohn Linen Service • Sound EFX • Spartan Motors • State of Michigan-DTMB • The Peanut Shop • Troppo • Walmart Silver Bells in the City is free and open to the public thanks to our amazing sponsors.

A project of the Silver Bells Coordinating Committee of Downtown Lansing Inc.

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MY COMMUNITY #PENN4PEOPLE GIVES OVERPASS A FACE LIFT On Sunday, Oct. 22, the Pennsylvania Avenue railroad overpass near Potter Park Zoo received a facelift, thanks to community partners led by the Lansing Area Economic Partnership’s ENGAGE Placemaking Pilot Program. The community was invited to grab a brush and assist local artists Tracie Davis and Diane Harte in painting. #Penn4People is the third ENGAGE project this year and involves the City of Lansing, Greater Lansing Regional Prosperity Initiative, the Mt. Hope STEAM School, Potter Park Zoo, the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission and Tiny By Design.

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Community partners give facelift to overpass

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Close up of the painting

MY COMMUNITY WALK FOR THE ANIMALS: PAWS IN THE PARK MOVES TO COOLEY LAW SCHOOL STADIUM The Capital Area Humane Society held Paws in the Park at Cooley Law School Stadium on Oct. 29. The event featured a one-mile walk on the concourse, police dog demos, agility equipment, a doggy obstacle course and vendors. New features included a Zumba warm-up, massages, human and dog costume contests, trick or treating and a Yappy Hour to wrap up the event.

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Haddie

Big Lug, Kevin Conrad

Cindy Kangas, Truckie, Trisha Russell

Laurie VanBeelen, Kayleigh Baker, Julia Willson, Holly Lawrence, Zapp, Melissa Kwiatkowski

National Anthem Marilyn Jackson

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SARAH METZ

Business Development Director at Burcham Hills

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PROFESSIONAL GUIDE KELLIE JOHNSON

SHELLEY DAVIS

Kellie Johnson is the retail store founder & owner of Kellie’s Consignments, inspired by community-driven interaction. She oversees and is extremely involved in day-to-day operations. She spends a lot of time in and out of the store building relationships and awareness about recycling through consigning and shopping resale. As owner, she holds herself responsible for the success or failure of the company, as she is charged with meeting the needs of employees, customers and communities. Her role includes operations, marketing, strategy, financing, cultivation of company culture, human resources, compliance with safety regulations, sales and public relations. Kellie was the 2016 recipient of the Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Spirit Award.

Shelley Davis is the Corporate Marketing Strategist at LAFCU. She manages the Credit Union’s marketing campaigns and strategic initiatives, including advertising, sales promotions and business development. She is a proud Lansing resident who serves on the Economic Development Corporation / Tax Increment Finance Authority/Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Board of Directors for the City of Lansing and is also a member of the Ingham Opioid Abuse Prevention Initiative. She is a past board member for various nonprofits, and an Emeritus Board Member for the McLaren Greater Lansing Healthcare Foundation.

(517) 574-4523 5000 Marsh Rd. Okemos, MI 48864

(517) 622-6600 | www.lafcu.com 106 North Marketplace Boulevard Lansing, MI 48917

SHARON MASON

SALLY BABBITT

Sharon Mason is the new community resource director here at Grandhaven Living Center. She is an RN with a degree in health information technology. Previously, Mason managed a chiropractic office for over three years. She has been in the health care industry for the last 25 years and has rich experiences working in hospitals, physician offices and public health settings.

Sally Babbitt provides probate and estate planning services to help individuals and their families navigate the legal issues of death and incapacity — including wills, trusts, estate and trust administration, guardians, conservators and probate litigation.

Mason’s passion is helping individuals and families work through all seasons of their health care journey; she enjoys helping to achieve a balance between traditional western and holistic medicine most of all, in order to address specific medical conditions.

Babbitt serves as the treasurer for the Resolution Services Center of Central Michigan, board secretary of St. Luke Lutheran Church, is a member of the Eaton County Bar Association and acts as co-chair for the probate and estate planning section of the Ingham County Bar Association, and the State Bar of Michigan’s appellate section and the probate and estate planning section. Babbitt frequently speaks and publishes on estate and probate topics in addition to appearing monthly on Fox 47’s Morning Blend program.

(517) 485-5966 3145 W. Mt. Hope Ave. Lansing, MI 48911

(517) 507-3306 6005 W Saint Joseph Hwy, Suite 302 Lansing, MI 48917

TODD A. MOYERBRAILEAN, D.O.

DARLENE PUJA Darlene Puja is the proprietor and master injector of Ageless Beauty Center medical spa located in Okemos. She studied Physiology and Psychology at Michigan State University and then received her RN license from LCC.

Dr. Moyerbrailean is board certified in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery, also known as Urogynecology. He has advanced training and expertise in the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction in women, which is sometimes caused by childbirth, repeated heavy lifting or chronic disease. Dr. Moyerbrailean specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment in associated symptoms as well, including loss of bladder or bowel control, difficulty with urination or moving bowels, overactive bladder and burning or related pelvic pain.

After graduation, Puja launched her career as a nurse in Michigan, where she specialized in cosmetics and has grown within the industry for the last 20 years. That eventually led her into owning her own business and doing what she loves. As a medical professional, Puja subscribes to a conservative and educational approach to customize to her patient’s needs. She provides the most sophisticated techniques and technologies available in skin care health and beauty to deliver the most beneficial and noninvasive treatments with a thoughtful and caring demeanor.

Dr. Moyerbrailean is now accepting new Urogynecology patients.

(517) 484-3000 | www.alliance-obgyn.com Main Campus South Campus 1560 Turf Lane 1100 South Cedar St. East Lansing, MI 48823 Mason, MI 48854

(517) 203-5052 2111 University Park Dr #400 Okemos, MI 48864

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Andtreating with nearly all procedures covered are dedicatedwounds, to relieving leg pain, treating the vascular cause ofAnd severe leg wounds, and eliminating unsightly veins. And with nearly all procedures covered by insurance, we offer more treatment options than most other vein clinics. by insurance, we offer more treatment options wounds, and eliminating unsightly veins. And with nearly all procedures covered than most other vein clin by insurance, we offer more treatment options than most other vein clinics. by insurance, we offer more treatment options than most other vein clinics.

Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, WashingtonDC DC Connecticut, Maryland,Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington

Connecticut, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington DC Connecticut, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, (800) FIX-LEGS / 349-5347 (800) 349-5347 / www.centerforvein.com (800) FIX-LEGS / (800) / www.centerforvein.com (800) FIX-LEGS / (800) 349-5347 / www.centerforvein.com

(517) 657-7097 / www.centerforvein.com / www.centerforvein.com

(800) FIX-LEGS / Portage (800) 349-5347 Conveniently in Grand Rapids and Conveniently locatedlocated in Grand Rapids and Portage Conveniently located in Grand Rapids and Portage

Conveniently located in Conveniently Grand Rapids, Lansing, Muskegon, and Wyoming. located in Grand RapidsPortage and Portage 5123 West St. Joseph, Suite 201 • Lansing, MI 48917

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