CAWLM Dec 2018

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DEC EM BER 2018

THIS SEASON'S PERFECT GIFTS

IS YOUR PUP ON THE NICE LIST? IRRESISTIBLE SANTA HAT SNACKS

Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson A VOICE FOR THE VOICELESS

CHEVROLET THE ALL-NEW

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MAKING EVERY MILE COUNT PRICING STARTING AT $286 Per Month* Visit Lansing’s largest Chevy dealer, Shaheen Chevrolet, for details.

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COVER

IN THIS ISSUE

14 Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson

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From the Publisher

25 Coloring Corner

17 This Season’s Perfect Gifts

5

Good News

28 Fashion

26 Is your Pup on the Nice List?

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Careers For Consideration

30 Queen of the Road

29 Irresistible Santa Hat Snacks

8

Reflections

32 Man on the Town

11 Financial Facts

34 Events

12 Local Woman

37 My Community

Photo by Mary Gajda

DECEMBER

On the cover: Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson Exclusive cover photography by Mary Gajda

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221 W Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933

Offering personalized general orthopedic services; specializing in joint replacements, sports medicine, fracture care, and hand and back pain.

Phone: (517) 203-0123 | Email: info@cawlm.com CAWLM.COM

ISSUE XII • VOLUME XI PUBLISHER TIFFANY DOWLING EDITOR KELLY MAZURKIEWICZ ASSISTANT EDITOR MARY GAJDA SALES MANAGER JENNIFER HODGES MEDIA MANAGER JILL BAILEY

Derek Sanders, ATC, LAT, ITAT

William Truluck, DO

John Flood, DO

Karl Dunn, DPM

ACCOUNT MANAGERS MEGAN FLEMING LIZ RENO-HAYES ZACK KRIEGER ADAM SMITH COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR AMI ICEMAN-HAUETER COMMUNICATION SPECIALISTS ADAM LANSDELL ALICA FINCH CHRISTOPHER NAGY RICH ADAMS ART DIRECTOR MARK WARNER PUBLICATION DESIGNER JEANETTE WUMMEL GRAPHIC DESIGNERS CODY FELL QUAN OLLIE HEATHER THIELKING WEB MANAGER JEANETTE WUMMEL EVENT CALENDAR MANAGER KYLE DOWLING

Nicholas Doman, D.O.

Jeremy Pascotto, D.O.

CONTRIBUTORS ALICIA FINCH CAROLINE OLMEDA DEIDRE DAVIS JEANETTE WUMMEL JILL BAILEY

LISA ALLEN-KOST MARY GAJDA MELIK BROWN TEECE ARONIN

ADVERTISING INFORMATION (517) 203-0123 Interested in hosting a distribution location?

Give us a call at (517) 203-0123 or email at info@cawlm.com.

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The Eaton Regional Orthopedics team reflects the perfect balance of compassion and competency in providing high-quality care you can always count on. They will work with you to create an individualized care plan because they recognize every patient is unique.

Call (517) 543-7976 to learn why our high-caliber physicians, along with trusted relationships and strong capabilities, bring us together in health. hgbhealth.com/EatonRegionalOrthopedics

Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle is published monthly

by M3 Group, Lansing, Michigan All rights reserved. © 2018 M3 Group

No part of this magazine may be reproduced whole or in part without the express written consent of the publisher.

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

Celebrate Broken Traditions There’s comfort in a long-standing tradition. When I was young, I couldn’t wait to spend Christmas Eve with my grandparents at their beautiful older home in downtown Detroit. My mom’s brothers and their families would attend, and it would be wall-to-wall chaos. There were three rooms on the main level. It was a traditional setup with a larger foyer flowing into a standard living room with a dining room and kitchen attached. There were at least 18 people crowded in and sometimes the noise was deafening: Young kids waiting for presents and adults trying to watch sports, play cards or just converse.

It was the kind of chaos that brings people together. Over the years, each of the cousins got married and had kids of their own and, well, things changed. It had to happen. For a while, we tried to get as many people together as we could. But there were too many and the space didn’t allow for it.

I was disappointed when I finally realized that we were never going to have a holiday like it was before. As it usually goes, a new tradition takes the place of those from the past, and it can be good – really good. You have children of your own and spend a great deal of time trying to replicate the Christmas magic you experienced in your youth. Those days were simple.

Simply perfect.

As the years have gone on, I’ve found it harder and harder to replicate “tradition” in the way that I used to know it. When you feel something slipping away, as humans we try to hang on tighter to the smallest sliver of what we had. We try to build up the memory and give our children a glimpse of a time when it just felt right. We hold on so tight that when things don’t go the way we think they should, it’s disappointing.

This year, we’re breaking tradition again. I don’t feel nearly as saddened by the idea. Actually, I’m excited that we have the opportunity to experience something new. Maybe like everything else in this fast-paced society where we can only stay focused on 120 characters or less, we are living the new definition of tradition. Instead of tradition lasting 20 years or more, we are lucky to see similar activities over two years. My holiday wish for you is to enjoy each moment as it comes and don’t fret over the dropped pie, broken toy or silly arguments. It’s all part of your new holiday tradition. ■

Tiffany Dowling | Publisher

4 DECEMBER 2018

GOOD NEWS C

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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!

WHITNEY RECEIVES SERVICE AWARD

AGELESS BEAUTY CELEBRATES NEW LOCATION

Lansing Art Gallery and Education Center Executive Director Barb Whitney has been selected as a 2018 Distinguished Service Award recipient by the Michigan Art Education Association.

Ageless Beauty Center moved to a larger location at 2355 Jolly Road in Okemos in October and celebrated with a grand opening Nov. 4. Items were also collected at the event and donated to the Capital Area Humane Society.

According to the Michigan Art Education Association, “Ms. Whitney has given many years of dedicated service advocating for and creating high-quality Barb Whitney arts education experiences.

The criteria for becoming the MAEA distinguished service recipient is very rigorous and the candidates must demonstrate evidence of their high standards, commitment and dedication in their field. Ms. Whitney is truly an exemplary champion of art education.”

Whitney expressed her gratitude stating, “Students deserve champions who believe in the value of arts education, and our work is fostering this paradigm shift. I am honored and humbled to be in the company of arts education advocates and practitioners who have changed the face of arts education both from a grassroots level and within a national framework for success. Arts education has the power to empower and enrich students, families and our society.” ■

Owner Darlene Puja is a cosmetic R.N. specialist and has a Bachelor of Physiology/Psychology degree from Michigan State University.

Most recently, Puja completed a master’slevel course certification on microneedling techniques with the skin pen.

“The new space allows me to keep up with trends and technnology to offer additonal services to clients,” said Puja. ■ Darlene Puja, owner of Ageless Beauty

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CATHERINE

TONNING-POPOWICH CAREERS FOR CONSIDERATION, ’HEART OF THE SEASON ’

BY CAROLINE OLMEDA Catherine Tonning-Popowich is a Michigan artist who has practiced art her whole life.

Thanks to her associate degrees in both fine arts and commercial arts, Tonning-Popowich has made a career out of her passion.

In 2017, she applied for the Artist in the Community grant from the Arts Council of Greater Lansing and received the news that she had been awarded the grant on the same day that her grandson, Ethan, passed away. Ethan was born just six and a half years earlier and had severe disabilities. Through her grief, the grant acted as a distraction and provided her with a way of seeing a brighter future for her work.

Tonning-Popowich realized that she had enjoyed taking care of her grandson, so she developed her Art Has No Barriers program in which she teaches art to others with disabilities in the Lansing community.

6 DECEMBER 2018

Tonning-Popowich considered several important factors when starting the program. She wanted it to be all-inclusive so “anybody who wanted to paint could paint.” She also wanted the program to be free. “I don’t want to charge the people for it. I want them to be able to come out and have free fun and get away from their daily grind.”

At the end of the program, she lets the students pick two or three of their favorite paintings to frame for an art show. Friends and family can come and enjoy the artwork, and there is even a reception afterward. In terms of what this class means to her students, Tonning-Popowich said that painting is “a way for them to tell their story.”

Five years down the road, Tonning-Popowich would love to see the program continue to be free. Art Has No Barriers participants can even be refunded for their bus tokens used to get to the studio. She understands how difficult caring for a loved one with a disability can be and adding expenses on top of that is not something she wants to do.

@FlyGRFord

@FlyGRFord

@FlyGRFord

FlyFord.org

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Caroline Olmeda is a senior at Michigan State University studying advertising management. When not playing with her Great Dane, Georgia, she enjoys cooking and hanging out with friends.

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Tonning-Popowich knows how difficult it can be to care for someone with disabilities and how the program can benefit each individual. She hopes the program will offer them a few hours to set their troubles aside and just paint. ■

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WINTER: SURPRISINGLY A TIME OF

FRESH STARTS

BY TEECE ARONIN

It’s December, and many of us are dreading the long, bleak trek to January, February and March – knowing that when it comes to closing winter down and ushering spring in, Michigan does everything in her own sweet time.

Last April, I sobbed my way through a milestone birthday, unable to go anywhere because the region was in the grip of an ice storm. Did I mention this was April? Worse, it was the middle of April, when one would think such nonsense would be behind us for a while. I hadn’t been that upset since I got iced in on my birthday the last time. I did say this was April, right?

What saved my sanity this year were two bouquets, one from my cousins and one from Tina, my friend since our freshman year of high school. Looking at those flowers, I saw fresh life, a fresh start, something hopeful.

Despite what I’ve said about winter, it gets a lot of bad press. We associate it with everything from darkness to death. But good things come to those who wait, and winter is great for that. We wait for warmth, for light and to shed our heavy coats.

But winter gives us the warmth of firesides and light reflected from snow and unfiltered by leaves. And since most of us have at least one heavy coat, we should be grateful instead of resentful every time we slip ours on. The Norwegians have a saying: There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.

8 DECEMBER 2018

REFLECTIONS REFLECTIONS Living through a Michigan winter can teach us much about undervalued blessings and, oddly enough, new beginnings, if our minds and hearts are open.

For if it weren’t for winter, there could be no spring.

Nothing can wake without having slept. And snow is the blanket beneath which grass and roots lie protected from harsher chills.

When I was young, my family took a road trip from Michigan to Tennessee. One thing after another went wrong the first day until, at last, we settled down for the night in a cozy motel in Kentucky. It was May. In the morning, we got up and my father, still smarting from the disasters the day before, groused to my mother, “Just watch! I’m going to open those curtains and there’ll be a foot of snow out there!”

He opened the curtains, and there were 2 feet of snow “out there.” It was almost like being back home.

When we got to Tennessee, spring had arrived. Trees were green, flowers were blooming and the days ahead were sunny.

That was almost like being back home, too – which only goes to prove: In Michigan, if it’s not one thing, it’s the other; but if we keep an open mind, we can embrace both, especially at the heart of the season. ■ Teece Aronin is an artist, blogger and columnist who writes for the Oakland Press and was the featured writer for October at TrueHumor.com. Her artwork is available at the Redbubble.com store and you can read her blog at ChippedDemitasse.BlogSpot.com

Donate.

Donations to the LCC Foundation EDUCATE students, providing the talent and skills that ELEVATE our community.

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10 DECEMBER 2018

Save and Give

FINANCIAL FACTS

BY DEIDRE DAVIS

O N H O L I DAY G I F T S It’s the time of year when you think about stellar deals and a tight budget, which has you hunting for creative ways to give. Here are some ideas to keep your budget intact and a few low-cost ways to give back.

SAVE: Set a budget – and stick to it

GIVE:

Entertain the elderly Visit a nursing home and spend time reading, taking a stroll, using a computer, warm-hug giving and more.

Fundraise locally Check with your favorite charitable organizations to see if they have fundraising partnerships with area businesses. Then spend your holiday dollars at those locations and suggest others do the same.

Your holiday budget should start like every good budget: by looking at how much you have left over after paying for essentials. Set a gift price range for each person on your list and then search for the best deals.

Give to little ones

Go in on a gift

Give to animals

Consider who you can get to go in on the purchase with you, especially for big-ticket items.

Donate used blankets and towels to a local animal shelter, bake homemade doggie treats or volunteer your lap for cat-sitting.

Set up a gift exchange Consider pitching the idea of a secret Santa or gift exchange to your friends, family or coworkers.

Give a “priceless” gift How about going DIY with your gift-giving this season? Or plan on spending time with your recipient – plan monthly lunch dates, movie dates or a travel date if he or she live out of town.

FIND US ON FACEBOOK!

Children’s hospitals have many volunteer opportunities ranging from rocking newborns to contributing to the hospital’s art supplies and games.

Help out local shelters Check with local shelters on what they are in need of most. Warm socks, travel-size toiletries and bus passes are some items to consider donating.

Give parents a timeout

Spread the words Donate your gently loved books or new ones to those in need of a good read such as neighborhood libraries, nursing homes or organizations such as Books for Soldiers.

Plan ahead for next year Many financial institutions have savings products to help you prepare in advance of the holidays as well as other occasions, such as vacations or weddings. At Michigan State University Federal Credit Union, we have many savings options where members can set up automatic withdrawals from their checking accounts and then access the funds at the time when they need the funds. For more information, visit msufcu.org. ■ 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.

Volunteer to watch your friend’s children so he or she can have some kid-free holiday shopping time (or simply enjoy a silent night).

(517) 267-1860 C

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LOCAL WOMAN

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IRIS ZINK

THE GIFT OF LIFE

Iris Zink, left, donated her kidney to friend Ginny Holcomb

BY MARY GAJDA Ah, the holidays – that magical time of year when Christmas spirit is abundant. Gifts are given and received, and there is a genuine feeling of joy in the air.

But there is no more precious gift than life, and it wasn’t even Christmas when Iris Zink decided to give it.

Zink, co-founder of the Nurse Practitioner Rheumatology Clinic in East Lansing (formerly Lansing Rheumatology) had no reservations giving this gift to her friend and patient of 18 years, Ginny Holcomb.

Holcomb was battling cancer as well as other kidney diseases that had left her in need of a new kidney. Zink didn’t hesitate to be tested to be her donor.

Months passed, and doctors kept performing tests until finally Zink was able to call Holcomb to tell her the good news.

“I thought she was joking at first. I cried,” said Holcomb. “I couldn’t believe it.”

12 DECEMBER 2018

“We had both our families with us. It was like a huge party,” Holcomb said.

Zink and Holcomb shared a mutual friend named Arlene, an inspirational woman who had 11 children, including nine special-needs children whom she adopted. She passed away in August 2010, shortly before what was to be her 70th birthday. Because Arlene was such a fighter, Holcomb found it fitting to name her new kidney “Arlene” after her late best friend. Just one of many obvious signs that Holcomb, even with all she has been through, thinks of others first.

Thankfully, the surgery was a success. Recovery for the donor can be more difficult, but Zink was back to work in a month.

Zink and Holcomb are sharing their story with hope that more people will consider organ donation. When asked if she would do it again, Zink didn’t hesitate.

“I can’t whine,” said Zink, “not when I know what Ginny has gone through.”

“Oh absolutely,” Zink said smiling, “I’m trying to figure out what other organ I can give. Can I give someone a piece of my heart?”

A humble Zink praised Holcomb for her outlook on life. “Ginny is braver than I am. No matter how many horrible things have happened to her, she has always tried to make other people laugh,” Zink said.

Zink and Holcomb were in pre-op together before the surgery in July.

Holcomb is doing wonderful as well. In fact, her positivity is evident as she fills the room with her laughter.

“For me, it’s gotten me through so much,” she said, referring to her sense of humor. As for Zink’s gift, “I’m grateful,” Holcomb said. “It’s a beautiful thing.”

In a way, she already did.

For more information on becoming a donor, visit kidney.org/transplantation/beadonor. ■

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Photos by Mary Gajda

14 DECEMBER 2018

Good Girl Radio and Capital Area Women's LifeStyle Magazine have partnered to feature our participating 2018 cover women in an on-camera interview with Good Girl Radio! Tune in the second Thursday of every month to hear more from these amazing women.

A Voice for the Voiceless

L a n s i n g ' s Ve r y O w n G o d s e n d

BY ALICIA FINCH “Prayer is the key of the morning and the bolt of the evening.” – Mahatma Gandhi The holidays seem to spark something in all of us.

Some volunteer, some donate. Whatever the deed may be, ‘tis the season – and the reason for the season is giving. For Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson, that season is 24/7, 365 days a year.

Johnson is a clinical psychologist, principal owner of the East Lansing Center for Family and serves as director for the city of Lansing’s Human Relations and Community Services Department (HRCS).

Johnson is known as a “voice for the voiceless” and is proud to be dedicated to the struggles of the less fortunate and vulnerable.

“There are so many people that are afraid to or that don’t know how to speak up for themselves, and they are taken advantage of,” Johnson explained. “The empowerment of educating people is important.”

She leaves her door open to those who need her help and advocates for those who are too scared or proud to ask for it. Johnson works endlessly for the causes she feels passionate about. For her, there is no clocking out and worrying about the problem tomorrow because she knows the importance of human beings having basic necessities.

for helping and educating is contagious. On the weekends she can be found serving up meals at local shelters like Advent House Ministries, where she has volunteered since the doors opened over 31 years ago. She spends at least three days a month volunteering at Advent House and one day a month at Loaves and Fishes Ministries.

If not in her office fighting for the greater good, Johnson can likely be found at one of the area’s local homeless shelters supplying mothers in need with diapers; filling food boxes for the mobile pantry; helping a needy father clothe his baby; helping a homeless family get a house; supplying children with shoes and clothing for school; helping senior citizens; or even helping those in need of haircuts, eye care and mental health issues. Her enthusiasm

“People walk across town for the best breakfast in town, but it’s also the only free breakfast in town. Other churches that come in hate when I’m there because people are really full. Brunch means anything I can find on sale. We may have four or five different meats to give people choices because during the week we choose what we want to eat, but most of our homeless brothers and sisters eat what they’re given,” Johnson explained. “My husband is

Johnson has spent the past 12 years working to uphold the principles of equal opportunity, promote community connections, facilitate local human services, and implement federal mandates that confront homelessness and other community social challenges. She’s allowed the hardships and disadvantages of her childhood help shape who she is today. Growing up in inner-city Jacksonville, Florida, Johnson experienced the roadblocks of disadvantages and discrimination. Those experiences fuel her personal passion for advocating, empowering and educating poor children and families about homelessness and food deprivation.

Johnson’s initiatives through HRCS are geared toward individuals most in need within the city of Lansing. Those initiatives include programs such as the Mobile Food Pantry, the School Break Feeding Program, Connect4Kids, Lansing Community Connect, One Church One Family, Feed the Babies and the Spartans Giving Back Program.

“Anything we identify in the community that would help level the playing field and resolve some of the challenges,” Johnson said. “That’s what our department does and that goes from health to mental health to housing issues to other nonprofits that provide specific services. Education is a part of it.”

Johnson has spent a lifetime serving others in the best way she knows how. She serves as a board member for Connect4Kids, the Community Coalition for Youth, Capital Area Health Alliance, Ingham County Change Imitative, One Church One Family and many more.

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COVER STORY called the ‘Grit Man.’ He can make 15 pounds of grits without one lump in them because I taught him how to put margarine in them.”

In a single day, breakfast might call for 5,000 eggs, 150 pounds of bacon and don’t forget the Grit Man’s grits. Johnson loves recruiting others

to help those in need. She often recruits her husband, children, two grandchildren, colleagues, local businesses and total strangers to accompany her in her efforts.

received many accolades, including the Advent House Volunteer of the Year and The ATHENA Award, to commemorate all that she has done in the Greater Lansing area.

In honor of her work, Johnson has been inducted into the Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame and has

“Lansing is a good, caring community,” Johnson explained. “I think people are willing to help when they can identify the need.”

Johnson has lived in the Lansing area since moving here in 1969 to attend graduate school at Michigan State University, where she obtained her doctorate and master’s degrees. Before attending MSU, Johnson received her bachelor’s degree from a private college in Jacksonville, Florida, Edward Waters College.

Since moving to the city of Lansing, Johnson has married and raised five children, two biological and three adopted. Although two of those children grew in her belly, the other three grew in her heart. ■ Alicia Finch is a journalism graduate of the University of Akron and is now residing in Mason. When not playing with her yorkie poo, she enjoys her coral reef tank and all things fitness related.

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E R O M E V I G

Receive 1% Cash Back on All of Your Purchases Get More for Your Money This Holiday Season Earn 1% cash back on all of your purchases when you use your MSUFCU Platinum Plus Visa Credit Card for holiday shopping, at the grocery store or gas station, and everywhere else Visa is accepted.

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Not affiliated with MSU? Not a problem! There are many ways to join.

Members will earn 1% cash back on all purchases. Cash back is not earned on tax payments, any unauthorized charges or transactions, cash advances, convenience checks, balance transfers, or fees of any kind.18 Account must be in2018 good standing to redeem cash back. Returns result in the loss of cash back DECEMBER equal to the amount returned. Negative cash back will be given if returns or credits exceed purchases.

Visit msufcu.org/cashback for full terms and conditions. Federally insured by NCUA.

GIFT GUIDE 2018

Each year, our staff loves to share their holiday gift ideas. It’s interesting to note there is a common thread: Gifts from the heart, gifts that come with memories and gifts of time.

Happy holidays from the staff of M3 Group!

Tiffany Dowling

Adam Smith

As I’ve aged a bit, I am less interested in material things and more inclined to give and request experiential gifts. These do not have to cost a lot of money. It’s more about spending time with people you care about or trying something new. Or, the best would be trying a new activity together.

Gift lists are super-important. I always ask what someone has on their list and try to get them something that they have specifically asked for.

They are happy, I’m happy and you don’t run the risk of regifting!

Heather Thielking

Pat Dowling

My ideal gift is a practical one. Create a basket of goodies combining everyday useful items with some unique, fun pieces. It’s best to stick with a theme, whether it be housewarming, spa day, baking, coffee lover or travel. The options are endless!

I like to give monthly subscriptions to services like Mystery Tackle Box for the fisherman in the family, Under Armour’s ArmourBox for the athlete or My Garden Box for the gardener.

Kyle Dowling

Jeanette Wummel

I really like board games and there’s some great new games that have come out in the past couple years. It’s a great gift and a great way to get your friends and family together!

I love creating memories with gifting tickets to a theater event, a day at the spa, movie tickets, a painting class, an escape room session, a laser tag session, membership to a museum or a trip to try out whitewater rafting.

Michael Cagney

Jill Bailey

I like to get people tickets to events (sports, concerts, shows). If you buy yourself a ticket/ multiple tickets for a group, you get to share the experience with them, making it even more special.

I love to give scratch-off lottery tickets because it’s something people usually don’t buy for themselves.

When they win, they are so excited!

CAWLM.COM

19

Avanti Kantumuchu

Jennifer Hodges

I feel that a gift is something that reminds you of the one who gave it. I think indoor plants, which grow just like our relations, or chimes would be a good idea to add beauty to one’s home.

I have family in different states so during the holidays we use the app Giftster. Everyone in your Giftster group can see what has been purchased so there are not duplicate gifts. I know when using this app my family members are receiving gifts they asked for, which means NO returns!

Mary Gajda

Alicia Finch

I have certain friends who I give the same variation of gifts to year after year. For example, my best guy friend gets a new pocket square from me every year. It’s fun to keep a tradition going.

I think giving a gift of thought is a great gift.

When someone sees that you clearly put thought into the gift given, it can warm their heart! Think about something that really connects you and that person, think of something that they really love, something that reminds you of them or vice versa, or something that they will forever cherish.

Ami Iceman-Haueter

Megan Fleming

The Mitten State is a proud place and I love to give something that fits the person and makes them think of home. A mitten pillow, a cute Michigan charm, a T-shirt with some outlandish outdoor saying are all great gifts, or check out Homesick Candles so you can give the gift of home for anywhere! Homesickcandles.com

For the person who loves being crafty, look up a cute craft online and get the pieces for it. When they open their gift, they have a fun project to work on and will have a perfect keepsake!

Cocktail Bar & Distillery

2000 Merritt Road, East Lansing | 517.908.9950 | redcedarspiritsdistiller y.com Tue., Wed. and Sun. 4-10 p.m.| Thurs. and Fri. 4-11 p.m.| Sat. 2-11 p.m.| Closed Mondays 20 DECEMBER 2018

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Get More for Your Money From gifts and decorations to meals and travel, spreading holiday cheer adds up and so can your cash back. Receive unlimited 1% cash back on every purchase.3 Your cash back never expires, and you can redeem it in any amount — at any time.

Plus, receive your card the same day at all of our branches.

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Not affiliated with MSU? Not a problem! There are many ways to join.

1APR is Annual Percentage Rate. APR of 12.9% is lowest rate offered for Platinum Plus Visa Credit Card. Rate offered is based on member’s credit score. 2National average for credit cards found at creditcards.com on 10/9/18. 3Members will earn 1% cash back on all purchases. Cash back is not earned on tax payments, any unauthorized charges or transactions, cash advances, convenience checks, balance transfers, or fees of any kind. Account must be in good standing to redeem cash back. Returns result in the loss of cash back equal to the amount returned. Negative cash back will be given if returns or credits exceed purchases. Visit msufcu.org/cashback for full terms and conditions. Federally insured by NCUA.

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ADVERTISEMENT

Cocktail Bar & Distillery

The production portion of the company is significant. Red Cedar Spirits is one of the largest craft distilleries in Michigan. The 45,000-squarefoot building on 2000 Merritt Road in East Lansing offers abundant space for large fermentation tanks, tall distillation columns and plenty of barrel storage. It also has ample room for the production of Katarina Naturals products, which use some of the byproduct ethanol from the spirits' production.

That is part of the overall full picture that makes the operation more green manufacturing and environmentally friendly. The former sign shop and water department (as far as is known) of the 1960s facility house the tasting room/cocktail bar and gift shop portion of the company. Tales of East Lansing employees who worked at the site when it was the public works building are enjoyable. It is certainly a contrast to the current activities on site and very entertaining.

Red Cedar's owners are proud of our bartenders who make creative and delicious drinks and cocktails to demonstrate the quality of the spirits.

They use fresh juices, herbs and interesting ingredients for the wide variety of cocktails available. The bartenders enjoy creating new and adventurous drinks and the results are a great taste experience. The distillery has also hosted pairing events with local restaurants such as Beggars Banquet for special evenings of extraordinary taste opportunities.

RED CEDAR BRINGS SPIRIT TO EAST LANSING “Red Cedar Spirits certainly has a mission—to produce high-quality spirits, to produce them in a manner as environmentally friendly as possible and to be a unique operation in the community. To do this, Red Cedar Spirits is a companion brand of Katarina Naturals, which is a line of non-beverage products. All are made at the East Lansing facility using sustainable fermentation-based manufacturing processes. The byproducts from Red Cedar Spirits production can be utilized in the non-beverage products. It may seem complicated, but it all fits together and visitors generally prefer focusing on the beverage aspect of the facility.

The business is located at the rehabilitated East Lansing Public Works building on Merritt Road, which although it is a historic property is now easy to describe for location as a block away from the 1-year old Costco. It has a peaceful setting for the casual, unique distillery and cocktail bar experience.

Red Cedar Spirits produces high-quality craft spirits in the facility from grain or fruit to bottle. That is a real distinction in the craft spirits industry. Grain and fruit juices are brought to the facility and all fermentation and distillation is done on-site. The craft product industry has a growing debate about what is really craft spirits and whether and how much of the processing should be done on-site 22 DECEMBER 2018

by the craft distiller. Red Cedar Spirits uses raw materials (crops that contain much sugar) that are grown in states and provinces that touch the Great Lakes. The cherries, raspberries and apples are from Michigan. The corn comes from the owner's property in Illinois. Barley (malt) comes from Wisconsin. The wheat comes from several Great Lakes states, including Michigan, and the rye from southwest Ontario. Because the corn comes from the owner's property, they are proud to promote the use of corn in many of their products. You also see a growing regional and state effort to promote “grow locally” in the craft spirits industry. Red Cedar Spirits focuses on the Great Lakes Region for sourcing raw materials while focusing on Michigan crops as much as possible, and there is the fondness for their own Illinois non-GMO corn! Red Cedar Spirits uses these regional raw materials to craft whiskey, bourbon, vodka, gin and brandy.

Owners Dianne Holman and Kris Berglund bring a scientific, engineering emphasis to the production.

Both are engineers. Dianne manages the company and brings overall operational organization as well as regulatory experience to this highly regulated production. Kris is involved on the sidelines as a consultant with extensive distillation background.

The employees who work on production have engineering and microbiology backgrounds and the laboratory and quality control is exceptional for a craft distillery.

The destination aspect of Red Cedar Spirits includes tours and tastings that make a visit to this large facility a great area activity. The tours can be adapted to the interests of the group, but Red Cedar Spirits likes to add a painless education twist to them, describing how spirits are made and many interesting points about the whole industry.

The questions asked lead to great discussions during the tours.

Red Cedar Spirits also has an event room that has been the site of many great parties. The uniqueness of the distillery setting, also enables food to be brought in or catered for parties, or Red Cedar Spirits can provide an array of its offerings of the tasting room cheeses and meats.

The expanding gift shop is also an attraction at Red Cedar Spirits, and the 11-acre site and surrounding wooded areas and historic nature of the former East Lansing Public Works building provide room to continue developing the local destination for an interesting, fun, educational afternoon and evening out on the town. ■

Liz Reno-Hayes

Cody Fell

If you are looking for a truly unique gift for someone – goat yoga! Michigan is one of only seven states that offers Original Goat Yoga, where you can take a yoga class and have adorable baby goats to play with! Check out Hilltop Views Farm!

I think art supplies are a great gift for anyone, even if they aren’t necessarily artistic. Whether it’s something as simple as a coloring book or a set of Dr. Ph. Martin’s watercolors for your aspiring artist. Either way, it’s a great gift to get people much-needed time away from screens.

Rich Adams

Morgan Larsen

I love giving books as gifts. If I know a person’s likes, I can customize the book to their interests. If it is an unknown, I choose a book such as Malcolm Gladwell’s “The Tipping Point” or “One Summer”

by Bill Bryson about the summer of 1927 (which includes local mentions.)

I like to give DIY gifts for Christmas. I think it’s more meaningful and is a gift straight from the heart!

Adam Landsell

Kelly Mazurkiewicz

Coffee enthusiasts will rave about the superiority of a French-pressed cup from home, but they might agree that it’s not exactly convenient. The Presse by bobble is a game changer. When paired with an electric kettle and a freshly ground bag of your favorite blend, this portable tumbler allows you to nix inconvenience without sacrificing quality!

Petlandia. This unique, personalized storybook is hand-illustrated and custom to your pet. Visit petlandia.com and in a few minutes you can create a pawsome story book for any pet-lover on your list!

Mark Warner

Quandrel Ollie

I like to share my hobbies with friends and family – like camping and hiking. You can find great deals this time of year, like 20-40 percent off at online retailers. I’ll go with stocking stuffers like water bottles, hats and headlamps – or go big and buy me a new tent. I mean for your loved ones of course.

When I give gifts, I always try to give in a way to make the recipient really happy. I try not to buy a gift just because. I want to give something that the person would actually be excited about; if I can afford it, I’ll get it.

Zach Krieger

Zach Dowling

I like to give the gift of music, movies, games and comics/books – sounds nerdy, but I love sitting on the couch with the missus listening to records and playing games or reading.

Lotions are an easy-to-find gift at just about any store. It makes a great gift for my girlfriend, mom and grandma, and everyone loves them.

Joyce Ruttan

Christopher Nagy

I like to buy an ornament for an event that has happened during the year – engagement, wedding, pregnancy, new baby. It’s a gift to keep and cherish.

When possible, I like to give something that has an emotional connection to the person receiving it. When my parents had to cut down the backyard crabapple tree last year that my brother and I spent our childhoods climbing, I made sure to save a section to make as a clock for my brother so he would always have a piece of the tree. ■

CAWLM.COM

23

1%

H S A C K C A B

U O Y : TO FCU U S M : M O R F

1% Cash Back on all purchases Receive 1% Cash Back on All of Your Purchases Get More for Your Money This Holiday Season Earn 1% cash back on all of your purchases when you use your MSUFCU Platinum Plus Visa Credit Card for holiday shopping, at the grocery store or gas station, and everywhere else Visa is accepted.

Redeem Cash Back Your Way Your cash back never expires, and you can redeem it in any amount — at any time.

msufcu.org/visa

• 517-333-2424 • Visit a branch

Members will earn 1% cash back on all purchases. Cash back is not earned on tax payments, any unauthorized charges or transactions, cash advances, convenience checks, balance transfers, or fees of any kind. Account must be in good standing to redeem cash back. Returns result in the loss of cash back equal to the amount returned.

24 DECEMBER 2018 Negative cash back will be given if returns or credits exceed purchases. Visit msufcu.org/cashback for full terms and conditions. Federally insured by NCUA.

COLORING CORNER

BY JEANETTE WUMMEL

Take a break by bringing out your inner child to enjoy some coloring! This page has been printed on glossy paper. To get the best results when coloring on glossy paper, we recommend using permanent markers from brands such as Sharpie or BIC. If you would like to print this design on your own paper, visit cawlm.com. To view more coloring pages from artist Jeanette Wummel, visit RootsOfDesign.com. â–

Jeanette Wummel is a graphic design specialist at M3 Group. She loves all things whimsical, vintage and geeky. She enjoys creating art; with a passion for drawing and painting. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her rescue dog, Peaches.

CAWLM.COM

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PET'S TALE

TIPS TO MAKE A

GOOD BOY

BY JILL BAILEY

My Puppy Won’t Stop Jumping! What do I do?

First, remember that your puppy is jumping to get your attention. If you push them down, tell them to stop, make eye contact or pay attention to them in any way, you’re rewarding them by giving them exactly what they want – attention! As hard as it is to ignore that sweet puppy face, you have to take that reward away by training yourself to turn away and pull your hands up. Be sure to inform any guests that are coming to your house as well, so you can keep things consistent during training. Once the puppy stops jumping, you can turn around and reward the puppy with praise, as long as he/she has all four on the floor. Once the jumping starts again, turn around.

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If they aren’t getting what they want, they will learn quickly to stop that behavior.

must be done right. Remember to have fun and stay positive and your puppy will too!

I can’t keep my dog out of the garbage. What can I do to stop this behavior?

I wanted to be sure to remind everyone that at this time of year when decorations are going up and family is celebrating, your animals will be a big part of the festivities too! Don’t forget that many things that are part of our holiday celebrations are toxic to dogs — chocolate, poinsettia, mistletoe, holly, potpourri and the list goes on. 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 is something they should not have it.

This is a tough one. I have dealt with this issue with my dog. Get a garbage can with a lid. Tie the garbage bag if you aren’t going to be home. I move the garbage to another room, tie the bag and close the door. There are certain things we can’t just train a dog to stop doing, especially when it involves that yummy-smelling garbage! So, managing their environment is the best solution. If you don’t want your dog in the trash, don’t give them the opportunity to get into it.

Have a safe and happy holiday season! ■

Is it really necessary to take my dog to a puppy class? Can’t I just teach him at home?

Jill Bailey is the media manager at M3 Group.

Having a lifelong love of dogs, Jill decided to get her training certification in 2012. Visit caninecoaches.com for more information.

Yes, you can definitely teach him at home, and it is great that you plan to! However, socialization is key to a new puppy, and you can get much of it by taking a training class. Your dog will not only be exposed to other puppies in a safe environment, but also to other adults and kids. In addition to this, the sounds and smells at class are also a new introduction for your puppy. The more you can introduce and expose your puppy to, the better off he/she will be as an adult. Remember, never force your puppy into anything. You are simply offering another environment for them to experience and investigate with your guidance and encouragement. Socialization is imperative to your puppy’s growth process, and it

REAL PEOPLE REAL MORTGAGES MERCANTILE BANK MORTGAGE SERVICES There are plenty of mortgage options out there, but chances are there is only one that is just right for you. Let a Mercantile Bank mortgage lender help you find the perfect mortgage for your life and your future. No gimmicks and no games, just solid mortgage options with competitive rates designed around your needs.

Visit MercBank.com/Mortgage to see our current loan specials.

Amy Ervin Mortgage Sales Officer NMLS# 685737 989.317.4329 aervin@mercbank.com

*All loans subject to credit and collateral approval.

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FASHION

5

2 1 3

4

Jolly

Holiday Fashion 13

Headed to a party for the holidays? Whether it’s Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or New Year’s Eve that you are celebrating, do it in style with fashion and accessories from Kellie’s Consignments. You can’t go wrong with cocktail dresses and shiny baubles for any holiday event. Don’t forget that Kellie’s has gift cards available for those on your “nice” list!

6

For the holidays or any occasion, shop Kellie’s Consignments for fashions for men and women, jewelry, furniture, and more. Expect the unexpected – at Kellie’s!

12

(1) Blue-sequin dress, size 8, $34; (2) Diamond look necklace and earrings, $48; (3) Black bead necklace and earrings, $24; (4) Black clutch, $29; (5) Black/brown lace dress, size 3-4, $18; (6) Blue bead necklace and earrings, $24; (7) Gold dress, size M, $16; (8) Black rosette evening bag, $7, $59; (9) Sears and Roebuck vintage fur cape, $24; (10) Vintage fur collar, $70; (11) Silver shoes, size 10, $14; (12) Black dress shoes with ankle strap/bow, size 5, $11; (13) Lace-covered evening bag, $9. ■ Available at Kellie's Consignments

8

10

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28 DECEMBER 2018

9

7

Photo by Mary Gajda

RECIPE pan while molded well to pan) and brush foil with ½-tablespoon melted butter. ● In mixing bowl, use a fork to blend crushed Oreos and 2 tablespoons of melted butter until well combined and moist. ● Press firmly into bottom of baking dish and set aside. ● In a large mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer on medium-low and blend cream cheese and sugar. ● Add in eggs and vanilla extract and blend.

SANTA HAT

enjoy!

C HEESECAKE BITES

CAWLM loves the holiday season, and trying Christmas recipes is one of our favorite pastimes!

We found one on Cooking Classy that we just had to try. This delicious twist on cheesecake with a cookie crust put us in the holiday spirit!

INGREDIENTS ● ● ● ●

18 crushed Oreo cookies 21 ⁄2 tablespoon butter, melted and divided Two 8-ounce packages softened cream cheese 1 ⁄4 -cup and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

● ● ● ● ●

2 large eggs ⁄ teaspoon vanilla extract 11 ⁄3 cups white chocolate chips 1 ⁄3 cup heavy cream 25 small fresh strawberries 1 2

DIRECTIONS ● Preheat oven to 325 F. Line an 8-inch-by-8-inch baking dish with two sheets of foil (one vertical, one horizontal and hanging over the

●

In separate bowl, microwave white chocolate chips with 1 ⁄3-cup heavy cream on 50 percent power in 30 second intervals, stirring in between until melted. Then pour into cream cheese mixture and blend on low until combined. Tap bowl several times to release air bubbles and then pour into prepared crust.

● Bake for 40 minutes. Turn oven off and allow cheesecake to rest for 15 minutes. ●

Remove from oven and let rest for 30 minutes.

Then freeze for 3 hours. Once chilled, remove from freezer and lift from pan using foil overhang.

● Cut into squares, top and place cut strawberry on top. Pipe with icing to make it appear like a Santa hat and serve. ■

THANK YOU SPONSORS! PRESENTING SPONSORS: Andy Schor, Mayor

Adams Outdoor; AF Group; Auto-Owners Insurance; Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network; BRD Printing; CiesaDesign; City of Lansing Parking Services; Cottage Inn Pizza; Comerica Bank; Davenport University; Dean Trailways; Delta Dental of Michigan , Ohio, and Indiana; Delux Tents and Events; Dewpoint; Dickinson Wright PLLC; Dykema; EDGE Partnerships; The Exchange Martini and Banquet Lounge; Eyde Company; For Crêpe Sake; Foster Swift Collins & Smith; FOX47 WSYM TV; Gillespie Group; Grand Traverse Pie Company; Granger; Greater Lansing CVB; High-Ball Crane; i92.9 Lansing’s New Hits; Insty-Prints Downtown; International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local #665; J&H Family Stores, Trowbridge; Kositchek’s; Lake Trust Credit Union; Lansing Community College; Lansing Economic Area Partnership; Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority; Lansing Public Media; Lansing State Journal; L.O. Eye Care; M3 Group; Marshall Music; McLaren Greater Lansing; Meijer; Michigan Association of Broadcasters; Michigan Association of Counties; Michigan Fitness Foundation; Michigan Retailers Association; Michigan State Capitol Commission; MSUFCU; National Electrical Contractors Association; NEWS 10; Northside Service Inc.; The Peanut Shop; Playmakers; Radisson Hotel; Render Studios; Sohn Linen Service; Sound EFX; State of Michigan, DTMB; Spartan Motors; 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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HEALING WORDS FROM A

STRANGER

BY LISA ALLEN-KOST

The holidays can be the best time of the year, and some of the most stressful days for women. The shopping, wrapping and travel are enough to defeat even the toughest winter warrior. But fear not, my friends: If you can make it through this month, 2019 is going to be your year.

How do I know? I received a prediction in October – from a prophet on the top of the Acropolis.

Although we were jet-lagged and exhausted from the flight from Detroit to Athens, I decided we should tough it out and visit the Acropolis on our first day. While my husband looked around, I wandered, people-watched and waited in the shade near a very old tree. The height of the Parthenon and the sheer majesty of the Acropolis made me feel humble and incredibly small. I said a small prayer for arriving safely, for my children and for a few friends back in Michigan who were in the process of battling real giants.

And then I heard him. A man was speaking not far from me. Before I ever saw his face, I heard these words: “The world is changing, my friends, and we are all a part of it.” I kept listening. “There are storms ahead.” When I glanced over at the bench where he was sitting, I realized he was being filmed. I also saw he resembled “Diogenes,” my pen name for the old man I once met on the beach in Greece when I was 16 years old.

I walked over to where he was sitting and, when the camera work was finished, asked him where he

30 DECEMBER 2018

QUEEN OF THE ROAD was from. “Israel,” he responded, offering nothing more. “Is it possible for me to take your picture,” I asked, “so that I may remember this moment?”

His answer surprised me, “No. The photo is not important. I want to know more about you.”

He thought I was from Texas, and after asking a few questions about who I was and where I came from, asked if he could pray for me. Now there may be some of you who would walk away at this moment, but I came to Greece after 40 years to find something magical, so I gave him my hand.

We bowed our heads and he began to pray in a way that showed he knew why I was there.

He told me I was a writer and I should continue to keep a journal. He prayed for God to take away all troubles in my heart, which he described with details only my husband knows, and to heal me as I descended from the Acropolis. Then he said something that I will never forget: “The most important thing you will do is help other women. Your life is about a woman, and your gift is to heal yourself and others. Amen.”

I could not speak and began to cry. It was as if someone had opened me up, turned my skin inside out, cleaned my wounds, and turned me back around. I thought, “How did he know?” By this time, my husband realized what was happening and walked over to the tree. I was thankful he did not judge, but he recognized we were in the presence of something very special.

Call it divinity, grace or destiny it didn’t matter. I believe I was meant to find him on the top of this mountain on my very first day of my longawaited Greek adventure.

I was blessed – by a complete stranger; it is that simple. My gift for you this holiday season is for you to listen carefully to your heart and, between the chaos of the busy season, to hear the ancient wisdom coming to you from deep within you – and to heal yourself, your families and the world. May you walk into your greatness in 2019. ■ Lisa Allen-Kost grew up as an “Army Brat,” 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, where she lives with her husband, Jim, and their children.

JESSI C A L AN G DAN CE Back by Demand!

“Lang has a gift for conveying emotion with exquisite simplicity.”

HUBBARD –The Washington Post STREE T

JANUARY 24 7:30 p m whartoncenter.com 1-800-WHARTON Sponsored by MSU Federal Credit Union.

Media Sponsor: Michigan Radio.

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31

MAN O N T H E TOWN

BY MELIK BROWN

Ah, summer. As the Fourth of July arrives, you enjoy the smell of grilling burgers. Thoughts of frankincense and myrrh are far from your mind.

As Labor Day approaches, you can't remember if the kids go back to school before or after. Halloween begins the mad rush to New Year's Eve. Around the same time, the state Christmas tree makes its journey to the Capitol. This year's tree, a 62-foot spruce, was donated by Mike and Shelly Kato of Alpena. The lighting of the tree coincides with the 32nd annual Silver Bells in the City.

Melik and mom

The holidays are a time for me to reflect on my life, my relationships with others and the city where I choose to live. My mother was diagnosed with cancer several years back at the beginning of a holiday season and died a week before Mother's Day the following year. Over the next few years people would ask if I was going to visit my

Order your Holiday Cookie Boxes today!

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agelessbeautycenterokemos.com 2395 Jolly Road Suite #145, Okemos, MI, 48864 | 517-203-5052

LANSING HAPPENINGS

reasons. Thanksgiving and Christmas are highlights of the season for most. We shouldn't forget those who may celebrate their way. Dussehra and Diwali are Hindu holidays. Those of Jewish faith celebrate Hanukkah. Kwanzaa celebrates African culture.

Ramadan, observed by Muslims, is a month of fasting to commemorate the first revelation of the Quran to Muhammad, according to Islamic belief.

mother during whatever holiday was approaching.

It stung. I wondered why people rarely mention the dads of the world.

As you choose to celebrate, allow yourself to slow down and enjoy the company of others. The memories you make will last longer than your lifetime. Welcome those who follow traditions different than yours. You just might find an exciting way to enhance celebrating the holidays. Shalom.

Merry Christmas. Assalamu Alaikum. Namaste. ■

“Happy holidays” not only references the traditional holiday blitz, but it can also bring to light that we have different people celebrating for different

Melik Brown is a Lansing resident most known for #LansingMade, with a mission to highlight the positive, initiate enlightening conversation and bring people together. Melik has a family of five plus one dog. He enjoys spending time with good people

Welcome to

Robinwood

Landing

where each moment matters Meaningful Moments:

Our distinctive program takes a holistic approach to caring for our residents. The Meaningful Moments program philosophy emphasizes:  Becoming familiar with each resident’s unique life story.  Honoring the resident as an individual.  Recognizing that we care for the whole person-physically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.  Creating a partnership of caring that includes the resident, family, and staff.  Understanding that a person living with dementia can continue to experience life in a meaningful way.

1 6 3 4 L a k e L a n s i n g R o a d | L a n s i n g , M I , 4 8 9 1 2 | 5 1 7. 2 0 3 . 3 0 4 4 | j e a s e n i o r l i v i n g . c o m CAWLM.COM

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TRI-COUNTY EVENTS

EVENTS

DECEMBER 6 Holiday Open House, East Lansing

DECEMBER 4 Lansing Brew Run, Lansing

STARTING DECEMBER 1 Winter Farmers Market at Meridian Mall, Okemos The winter variation of the farmers market runs every two weeks from Dec. 1 through April 20 and will feature a variety of locally homegrown and homemade goods that are sure to satisfy shoppers and bring warm feelings during the cold winter months. The Meridian Township Winter Farmers Market is open the first and third Saturdays from December through April.

On average, the event hosts 25 vendors with a wide variety of products: meats, cheeses, eggs, fresh and stored produce, baked goods, breads, specialty items, hot ready-to-eat foods, and so much more. Visit their Facebook page for more information about the event.

THROUGH DECEMBER Wonderland of Lights, Lansing Potter Park Zoo is transformed

Looking to spice up your running or walking in 2018?

Join the monthly Lansing Brewing Co. Brew Run & Walk series. Playmakers, LBC and the Gillespie Group are teaming up to provide a monthly fun run and walk in downtown Lansing. This monthly event will start and finish from the Lansing Brewing Co. while participants will be able to win raffle prizes, earn free swag for attending and enjoy a night at their new favorite watering hole. Each month’s Brew Run will feature a new charity, with a yearly goal of raising a combined $10,000 for local charities. The run will have a formal start at 6 p.m., but all participants are invited to start their run/walk as early at 5:30 p.m. or after 6 p.m. The course may vary month to month. Post race participants will meet in the Stockhouse for appetizers and Lansing’s own favorite craft beers. Visit the Lansing Brewing Co. Facebook page for more information.

DECEMBER 5 Winter Wine & Stein, Lansing

into a festival of lights Thursdays through Sundays in December.

Kids activities, entertainment and your festive animal friends make this a fun event for the whole family. Lights are on Thursday through Sunday nights only. Closed Christmas Day. Visit potterparkzoo.org/events for more information.

You love wining and steining in the summer. Now, celebrate the wintery season with the winter casual after hours bash at the Potter Park Zoo. Enjoy tastings of beer and wine and sample fabulous hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants as you listen to holiday tunes and meander through the zoo, featuring the holiday favorite Wonderland of Lights. Visit potterparkzoo.org/events for more information.

Enjoy the Michigan State University Department of Horticulture’s displays of poinsettias and a 16-foot poinsettia tree under evening lights. Bring your camera and the kids. Santa will be there in his sleigh at 5:30 p.m. MSU poinsettias, centerpieces and wreaths will be for sale. Enjoy some holiday refreshments. Visit canr. msu.edu/hrt/ for more information.N

DECEMBER 7 Free Lunch Friday, Okemos Join Kellie’s Consignments for networking, shopping and lunch at Free Lunch Friday, held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the first Friday of each month. Bring your business cards to pass out, shop the sales and enjoy lunch. Advanced registration is required. The event is on Eventbrite. Visit kelliesconsignments.com for more information.

DECEMBER 8 SantaCon, Lansing SantaCon is returning to Lansing, so get those Santa suits ready for an evening of Christmas imbibing.

SantaCon is Santa’s bar-hopping night that occurs in cities all around the world, originally starting in San Francisco in 1994. Santa will be starting at The Grid Arcade and Bar and making stops at watering holes throughout Old Town and downtown Lansing. Parking is free in city lot 56 (directly behind The Grid and

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TRI-COUNTY EVENTS along the River Trail). Please bring a nonperishable food item donation to The Grid anytime throughout the day to help support your local food bank. Come dressed in a full Santa suit. Don’t have a Santa suit? PartyCity has a large selection starting around $15. You don’t have to dress exactly like Santa but the theme is red. That having been said, unusual interpretations of Santa-ness are often appreciated and Christmas trees, elves, reindeer themes, etc. are all good. Visit the SantaCon Facebook page for more information.

DECEMBER 9

DECEMBER 14-16

Christmas in the Village, Okemos

Christmas Sparty Weekend, Lansing

Join Santa and the Friends for an old-fashioned Christmas in the village! Historic buildings will be open and decorated for the holidays. Volunteers in period dress will share their Christmas traditions from days past. The gift shop will be open. It’s a free, family-friendly event.

Visit lansing.org for more information.

The 2018 Border Wars is part of the NUWAY Family of wrestling events. Border Wars combines two youth wrestling events, Spartan Country and All-Star Christmas (now known as Christmas Sparty Weekend).

Both events will take place at the Lansing Center. Age groups range from third grade to eighth grade for boys and girls. Visit nuwaywrestling.com/christmassparty for more information.

DECEMBER 10

STARTING DECEMBER 8

The BIG Potential, Lansing

Seventh Annual Festival of Trees, Lansing The Friends of Turner-Dodge House and Lansing Parks and Recreation are hosting the seventh annual Festival of Trees. Holiday trees by various businesses, organizations and individuals adorn all three floors of the historic mansion. The Festival of Trees opens to the public Dec. 8 and runs through Jan. 1. Hours are 1-7 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays, noon to 8 p.m.

Saturdays and noon to 6 p.m. Sundays. The festival will be open Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Admission is $5 at the door.

Children 12 and under get in free. Proceeds from the Festival of Trees benefit the continued restoration and preservation of Lansing’s historic Turner-Dodge House.

For more information about the Festival of Trees, contact Barbara Loyer, Turner-Dodge House manager, at (517) 483-4220 or Barbara.Loyer@lansingmi.gov.

Every child has the potential to do something great. This short presentation showcases Big Brothers Big Sisters Michigan Capital Region’s impact on the community’s youth and how you can become a Defender of Potential.

It’s free, but you do have to RSVP to Colleen G. Steinman at colleen.steinman@bbbsmcr.org or (517) 372-0160. Light refreshments will be served.

DECEMBER 13 Small-Business Holiday Party, East Lansing Celebrate the holidays at the Kellogg Center. Join a special holiday lunch buffet for small businesses Dec. 13. Reserve per seat or table. Single tickets are $18 and tables are $125 with seating for eight people. The party includes a lunch buffet, nonalcoholic drinks, tax and gratuity. A cash bar will be available. Visit kelloggcenter. com for more information.

Call me today at 517.253.8563 With 18 years of experience serving successful women and their families in the Lansing area, Stephanie uses her comprehensive approach to financial planning to provide advice for women who want to be empowered and informed as they make complex decisions about their future.

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DECEMBER 19 Beat the Brewer, Lansing Blake’s Ciders and Tandem Ciders will at The Grid Arcade and Bar for Beat the Brewer to challenge players in the arcade game of their choice. If you can beat the brewers, you’ll score some sweet swag. There will also be a selection of ciders on draft to challenge your taste buds.

Whichever brewer sells the most cider will become the reigning cider. Come and help vote for your favorite cider and take on the brewers in some old-school, smack-talking fun. Visit their Facebook page for more information.

DECEMBER 30 Family Day @ The Grid, Lansing The Grid Arcade and Bar’s monthly Family Day returns from noon to 4 p.m. for kids and adults to experience some arcade and pinball fun. There is no fee or cover charge to attend. All kids must be accompanied by adults.

There will be snacks, sodas and mocktails available for kids. Adult beverages will still be available for adults.

Visit their Facebook page for more information. ■

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36 DECEMBER 2018

MY COMMUNITY SILVER BELLS IN THE CITY RETURNS The annual Silver Bells in the City took place Nov. 16 in downtown Lansing. The event took a break this year from fireworks due to construction; however, the crowd of thousands enjoyed the Electric Light Parade and the lighting of the Christmas tree. Silver Bells in the City is produced with the assistance of many passionate volunteers and remains free to all through the support of almost 100 area sponsors, along with assistance from the state of Michigan and city of Lansing. ■ PHOTOS BY MARY GAJDA AND MELIK BROWN

Lansing Eastern High School Band

And the tree is lit!

CATABUS

Bob Hoffman Sarah Swistek and Mark Buzzita prepare for broadcast kickoff of the parade

Thousands descended upon downtown for silver bells

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Today, more than 60% of retirees say they were not really ready to retire, but they faced circumstances that brought on their decision.

About half of these individuals are at risk for depression. Caregivers we use find that helping a family in need of assistance creates purpose for their day and a sense of well-being. The income they generate is helpful, and the services they provide allow them to use skills and share with others unique abilities they have developed through the years.

Studies show that people who are lonely are much more likely to become sick. If you have an aging parent who is often alone and isolated due to their inability to drive, loss of friends, debilitating illness, or are in need of respite care, give us a call. Assistance is confidential and there is no long-term obligation.

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MY COMMUNITY MASON CHAMBER HOLDS NETWORKING MEETING

BEAUTY SALON PROVIDES HAIRCUTS FOR THE HOMELESS

The Mason Area Chamber of Commerce recently held its 135th “Good Morning, Mason!" news and networking meeting.

The events are held on six select Thursdays each year at the Ingham County Fairgrounds Community Building, 700 E. Ash St., from 7:15-8:15 a.m. The chamber’s Ambassadors Committee organizes the popular networking events.“Good Morning, Mason!” is presented

by Dart Bank and is sponsored by a different chamber member each month. ■

His and Hers Beauty Salon in Williamston held a Nov. 12 event providing free haircuts to the homeless. Owner Danielle Wirth, along with her staff and other volunteer hairstylists, provided over 100 haircuts for homeless men, women and children. Wirth was inspired to create the event in conjunction with the Homeless Angels organization in honor of her late father, a cosmetologist who held similar events. Wirth hopes to make the event an annual tradition and frequently gives back to the community. ■

Darrell Benedict (standing) of Benedict Auto Body

PHOTOS BY HANNAH WARVEL, MACC INTERN

Karla Spoor of Dart Bank and Jacob Walters of MSU Federal Credit Union

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Melanie Squires of Dart Bank, Mike Waltz of Mason Kiwanis, Mark Voss of Mark Voss Agency and KathyWakefield of Commercial Bank Mason

Owner and Cosmetologist Danielle Wirth and a happy client

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MY COMMUNITY SPARROW GUILD THROWS TCI FUNDRAISER The Sparrow Foundation hosts several events each year to support a variety of services that impact the health of the region. T.G.I.F. - The Sparrow Guild’s incredible fundraiser generously presented by SEI took place Nov. 2 and benefitted Sparrow Thoracic and Cardiovascular Institute. Nearly 300 people from the Lansing region enjoyed the atmosphere, food, music and dancing at the Old Town Marquee. ■ PHOTOS PROVIDED SEI was a platinum sponsor for the event Several cosmetologists donated their time to the event

Happy clients who recieved free haircuts

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PROFESSIONAL GUIDE DARLENE PUJA

SALLY BABBITT

Darlene Puja is the proprietor and master injector of Ageless Beauty Center medical spa in Okemos. She studied physiology and psychology at Michigan State University and received her RN license from Lansing Community College. After graduation, Puja launched her career as a nurse in Michigan, where she specialized in cosmetics. 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 patients' 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.

Sally Babbitt of Babbitt Legal Group provides probate and estate planning services to help individuals and their families navigate the legal issues of death and incapacity.

Babbitt serves as the treasurer for the Resolution Services Center of Central Michigan, is a member of the Eaton County Bar Association and Ingham County Bar Association, and the probate and estate planning section of the State Bar of Michigan. Babbitt also serves as co-chair for the probate and estate planning section of the Ingham County Bar Association.

Babbitt frequently speaks and publishes on estate and probate topics in addition to appearing on the Fox 47 (WSYM-TV) “Morning Blend” program.

agelessbeautycenterokemos.com (517) 203-5052 2395 Jolly Road, Ste. 145 Okemos, MI 48864

sallybabbittlaw.com (517) 507-3306 6005 W. St. Joseph Highway #302 Lansing, MI 48917

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TIFFANY KENNON

Erin Bowdell oversees the Facilities Operations, Purchasing and Logistics, and Physical Security departments at the credit union.

In addition to managing her division, she is responsible for managing all credit union construction and renovation projects.

She is active in the Greater Lansing community and volunteers with Women Build®, a Habitat for Humanity® program.

Tiffany Kennon started Kennon Interiors in 2009. As a design consultant, she guides her clients through the process of creating a space that reflects their personal style. Her projects range from designing entire homes to advising on how to use what you have in a new way. She believes a beautiful interior space does not need to come with a big price tag.

Founded in 1937 by MSU faculty and staff, MSUFCU has 18 branches, nearly 250,000 members, more than $3.7 billion in assets and over 800 employees. The credit union has also been recognized for a number of awards for innovative employee solutions and programs.

(517) 333-2424 (800) MSU-4-YOU 3777 West Road East Lansing, MI 48823

kennoninteriors.com (517) 819-3008 tiffany@kennoninteriors.com NICHOLAS DOMAN, D.O.

JAMIE KAREK, RN, CNM, WHNP Jamie Karek received a dual Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Dietetics from Michigan State University, graduated from Georgetown University’s Nurse-Midwifery/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner program with her Master of Science in Nursing, and is a Registered Nurse at Alliance Obstetrics & Gynecology. As a Certified Nurse Midwife and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner at Alliance, Karek helps women make informed decisions about their health care and feel that their concerns are addressed. She will also be providing nursemidwifery care for her OB patients as a Centering Pregnancy health care facilitator. She is currently accepting new patients.

(517) 484-3000 Main Campus 1560 Turf Lane East Lansing, MI 48823

Dr. Doman is an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in anterior hip replacements, shoulder replacements and tourniquet-less knee replacements. He loves caring for patients of all ages, and creates individualized treatment plans for every patient depending on his or her unique needs. After searching for almost a year for the right fit, Dr. Doman chose to work with Hayes Green Beach Memorial Hospital, located conveniently in mid-Michigan. He also performs muscle and ligament reconstruction, treats arthritic and degenerative conditions as well as sports injuries.

hgbhealth.com/EatonRegionalOrthopedics (517) 543-7976 616 Meijer Drive Charlotte, MI 48813

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IRIS WARE

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A first-generation college student, Dr. Iris Ware began her journey in education with a grant from the Lansing Community College (LCC) Foundation. After earning her associate degree, Ware obtained a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University, and her master’s and Ph.D. from Wayne State University. Ware is a human capital strategist with experience in senior-level leadership, managerial and consultant roles in domestic and international organizations as well as the public, private and nonprofit sectors.In addition to her work as chief learning officer for the city of Detroit, Ware currently serves on the LCC human resources advisory committee and reviews scholarship applications for the LCC Foundation.

lcc.edu/elevate (517) 483-1985 308 N. Washington Square #201 Lansing, MI 48933 40 DECEMBER 2018

Adam Smith is a marketing account specialist at M3 Group and has multiple years of business development and marketing experience spanning across multiple industries. Smith’s previous rolls include creative and IT staffing for Robert Half International; higher education success and economic consulting; and marketing for an international, industrial lubrication company headquartered in Germany. Smith’s diverse background allows him to focus on success-driven account management. He brings his background in MarCom to the forefront, staying current with the latest marketing trends, helping to keep your brand top of mind.

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JOIN GREATER LANSING BUSINESS MONTHLY as they present the 25th Annual Entrepreneurial Awards Ceremony

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From business law to business consulting to becoming the president of a business, Latella is a master of negotiation, leadership and customer service. He’s been called a multi-faceted top-level executive who knows his value in a business relationship. Latella’s resume includes former Chief of Senior Crime Unit for the Macomb Senior Crime Unit, former CEO of Garden Fresh Gourmet and current business consultant and angel investor.

Tony Willis is a professional resource charter and economic gardener. Over the past five years Tony has been deeply involved with economic development; specifically, when it comes to developing an entrepreneurial ecosystem for the Greater Lansing Region to foster increased company formation, seed and VC investment, resources to enhance connections between entrepreneurial support organizations, and a culture where people and ideas can move rapidly to the market.

Latella is now the president of McClure’s, a specialty manufacturer of artisan pickled products and bloody mary

Tony is currently the Director of New Economy at the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) and President of Lansing PROTO, the regions first startup accelerator program.

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