CAWLM February 2017

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FEBRUARY 2017

ON THE BIG SCREEN:

HANNAH’S HOUSE

“PASSENGERS”

Helping new mothers reach their potential

THE INS & OUTS OF ONLINE DATING

Jeana-Dee Allen & Dylan Rogers The creative couple speaks on balancing business & their relationship

THE MOST TRUSTED NAME IN PLUMBING AND HEATING

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FEBRUARY ON THE COVER 6

Hannah’s House

10

On the big screen: “Passengers”

11

The ins & outs of online dating

14

Jeana-Dee Allen & Dylan Rogers

IN THIS ISSUE 4

From the Publisher

5

Good News

8

Business Profile

9

Financial Facts

10

Movie Review

12 Feature 13

Fashion & Beauty

17

Entertainment Alley

18

Local Women

20

DIY Quick Craft

21 Reflections 22

Careers for Consideration

23

Queen of the Road

24 Lifestyle 25

A Pet's Tale

26 Recipe 27

Tri County Events

30

My Community

CORRECTION Our January issue’s Business Profile, on Fit In Fitness, LLC., incorrectly attributed photography credit. Photos in this article were taken by Leah K. Photography

2 Our FEBRUARY 2017 On Cover: Jeana-Dee Allen & Dylan Rogers| Exclusive photography by Erika Hodges

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614 Seymour Avenue, Lansing, MI 48933 Phone: (517) 203-0123 • Fax: (517) 203-3334 Email: info@cawlm.com CAWLM.COM

women’s ^

ISSUE II • VOLUME X PUBLISHER Tiffany Dowling SALES MANAGER Jennifer Hodges MEDIA MANAGER Jill Bailey

2-D

3-D

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ACCOUNT MANAGERS Austin Ashley Megan Fleming Manny Garcia PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Kelly Mazurkiewicz COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Ami Iceman-Haueter ART DIRECTOR Mark Warner GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Angela Carlone Kerry Hidlay Nikki Nicolaou PUBLICATION PHOTOGRAPHER Erika Hodges EDITOR Megan Martin WEB MANAGER Skylar Kohagen EVENT CALENDAR MANAGER Jaime Hardesty CONTRIBUTORS Cathy Blatnik Deidre Davis Melissa Dowrick Taylor Kelsaw Alexandria Kobryn Lisa Kost Adam Lansdell Sarah Spohn Caitlin Taylor

Life is three dimensional. And so are you. HGB is the first hospital in mid-Michigan to offer 3-D mammography in its Breast Care Center.

With a 40+ percent increase in accuracy over twodimensional mammography, this cutting-edge technology reflects our dedication to providing the best-in-class medical care you can expect from HGB. Schedule your 3-D mammogram appointment now. Call HGB’s Breast Care Center at 517-541-5805 to learn why our trusted relationships, strong capabilities and high-caliber physicians bring us together in health. hgbhealth.com

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.

group

Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle is published monthly by M3 Group, Lansing, MI. All rights reserved. © 2016 M3 Group

3-D MAMMOGRAPHY NOW AVAILABLE!

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

CAWLM.COM

3

FROM THE PUBLISHER

W H AT ’ S WE ARE THE BIG STORE IN THE LITTLE TOWN

LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT?

EVERYTHING Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about motivation. What moves us to make the choices we do? How do we decide where to dedicate our precious time? Why do we stay in the most complicated relationships? If you read the research reports, there are always five to 10 specific motivators named and honestly, I didn’t find one to validate my opinion that love is the biggest motivator of all.

LOVE FOR WORK

Even the toughest job is enjoyable if you love it. Finding passion in a little hard work makes you feel accomplished and useful. It gives you a feeling of purpose and it allows you to work with people who share in a vision. I love working together to provide expertise to companies that value it. And, when the trifecta of great work, wonderful people and satisfied clients comes together, the love for my work is at its peak.

LOVE FOR ADVENTURE

Who doesn’t love a good challenge? I don’t want to be stressed every day, but looking for new opportunities, giving myself new areas to learn or explore and facing adventure with a quickened heartbeat, makes me happy and helps me feel alive. I’m not an adrenaline junkie. I don’t want to bungee jump and I’m not dropping out of an airplane, but I will face the prospect of a building renovation with tenacity. I could use a few extra hours in the day but, overall, learning something new is adventurous and I love it.

LOVE FOR COMMUNITY

CELEBRATING

125 YEARS 211 MAIN ST, SUNFIELD, MI 48890 WWW.MAPESFURNITURE.COM | 517.566.8021 4

FEBRUARY 2017

It isn’t news to anyone that I love Lansing. The biggest small town has been really good to me. I will celebrate 15 years in business. It’s a milestone that I attribute to the environment among other things. I truly believe that taking care of the community that has supported me is a privilege. My love for community and the people in it allows me to contribute my time, talent and treasure.

LOVE FOR PEOPLE

There are many different relationships in our lives. Some are easy and seamless. They don’t take a lot of work; it feels safe and comfortable. Then there are those that are not easy for one reason or another. I’ve felt in the past that some friends and family test the ties that bind. They push and push to see how much the relationship can take. It’s difficult to process the reasons behind it, but I think in this world we need reassurances that we have those who love us in our corner. When we think we’ve given all we can, dig deeper. There is little else in this world more important than relationships.

FEEL THE LOVE FOR PEOPLE. I DO. HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY GREATER LANSING.

Tiffany Dowling | Publisher

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!

EXPERIENCE THE 10TH ANNUAL MSUFCU STUDENT ART EXHIBIT

2017

The public can vote in-person or online at msufcuart.com or on the MSUFCU Art Exhibit Facebook page. Voting ends Feb. 20. Votes help determine the People’s Choice Awards and a School Spirit Award, given to the high school that draws the most votes.

The winners of the Student Art Exhibit will be announced at a special awards ceremony at

Lansing Art Gallery’s new program – Art Encounter: SEE | CONNECT | CREATE will run concurrently with the gallery’s changing exhibitions and is offered during all open hours.

During the Art Encounter, guests of all ages are encouraged to explore Lansing Art Gallery in a new capacity; including a fun and interactive self-guided activity in the exhibition space and an art making experience in the Education Center. This program is free and open to the public.

The next art encounter will be a Scavenger Hunt & Make Your Own Origami from Jan. 13 – Feb. 24. Come to the gallery to see “Searching For the Middle Path,”; an exhibition of three dimensional oil paintings by Grand Rapids artist, Tatuski Hakoyama. The gallery explores Hakoyama’s intricate paintings with a scavenger hunt. Then head to the Education Center to create your very own origami crane to display in the Student Art Gallery. You can even create one to take home.

If you haven’t yet experienced the MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) Student Art Exhibit, stop

by MSUFCU Headquarters in East Lansing until Thursday, Feb. 23 to see the talent from our young local artists. Artwork from a record number 19 mid-Michigan high schools will be on display with students hoping to earn your votes.

Prizes include $300 for first place winners, $200 for second place winners, $100 for third place winners and cash prizes for 10 honorable mentions.

One student will also be awarded a $50 Social Media Award for gaining the most “likes” on the MSUFCU Student Art Exhibit Facebook page.

SEE, CONNECT AND CREATE ART AT LANSING ART GALLERY

This program is made possible in part by a grant of $11,648 from the Capital Region Community Foundation and an additional grant from the Joe D. Pentecost Foundation. If you have any questions, please contact Lansing Art Gallery's executive director, Barb Whitney, at barb@lansingartgallery.org.

2016 First place Judges Pick by Yiduo Wen

MSUFCU headquarters on Thursday, Feb. 23 at 6 p.m. The MSUFCU Student Art Exhibit is sponsored by Shaheen Chevrolet and Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine.

LEAP WELCOMES NEW TEAM MEMBER VICTORIA MEADOWS The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) is pleased to announce the addition of Victoria Meadows, as the director of marketing, communications and talent, to its staff.

Meadows began working with LEAP on Jan. 3.

Meadows joined LEAP Victoria Meadows, LEAP's director of after 20 years at Lansing marketing Community College (LCC) as the library communications manager, where she worked to build awareness of and engagement with

students, faculty and staff. During her time at LCC, Victoria developed a strategic communication plan for the library; served as its official media contact, assisted in developing and maintaining a strong web and social media presence and created print and digital marketing pieces to support Library Services.

Victoria also brings experience with professional writing and special events and program planning and coordination.

“I’m pleased to have joined the amazing team of economic development experts here at LEAP, and am looking forward

to the year ahead,” said Meadows. “LEAP, and our entire community of partners, across the tri-county region, continuously works to help the private sector develop impactful projects and important initiatives. I will be working hard to help get the message out that every day we are improving the lives of families and communities.”

Meadows fills the vacant Director of Marketing, Communications and Talent position previously held

by Sara Parkinson. Visit purelansing.com to learn more about the LEAP team.

CAWLM.COM

5

NONPROFIT PROFILE

BY SARAH SPOHN | PHOTO BY DANIELLE ARNETT

HELPING WOMEN

IN NEED In the early nineties, Nancy Kujawa saw a need and stepped up to make change happen. Through developing plans and researching options, she came up with one of her own, which is now known as Hannah’s House.

The 501(c)(3) has helped more than 200 women and 250 families since the inception of the nonprofit program. Not only does this homeless shelter provide a home for these women and families in need, it also provides food, clothing and aids in setting up lifelong success skills. Weekly classes and other resources are available to tenets of the Christ-centered nonprofit.

Executive Director, Deanna Arnett spoke about Hannah’s House and what sets it apart from other homeless shelters.

“Our motto is new life, new hope,” she said. “My favorite thing about the program is, first and foremost — we are a ministry. We believe that that’s the only way that women will overcome adversity in their lives [is] through Christ.”

The ministry program includes Monday night Bible studies, Tuesday night parenting classes, house meetings mid-week, Thursday relationship classes and nutrition or budgeting classes on Fridays. The house is home to four women, all of whom went through an extensive process to become residents of the nonprofit. Residency is open to pregnant women ages 18 and older, regardless of race, religious beliefs or financial status.

According to Arnett, the house is more than just a shelter, it’s a consistent program, providing hope and help for residents for years to come.

“We’re not just trying to give the homeless a bed, we are trying to make sure they have everything they need so they don’t end up homeless again,” Arnett said.

The program features two different tracks for residents: education, for those to finish high school education through cyber academies or achieve their GED, or the career-based employment track. Each track features different milestones and specific tasks for residents to complete off their checklist including parttime work, resume writing, mock interviews, savings accounts, Medicaid filing, securing an OBGYN and other tasks.

The residents are not required to pay rent during their stay in the program, for up to nine months after their baby is born. During their stay, however, women are required to put in a minimum of 25 hours per week of resume-building experience which could include volunteer work, a part-time job and/or school.

While other maternity shelter centers are often substance-abuse based programs and therefore take insurance; Hannah’s House differs.

The full nonprofit program runs mainly off donations, 80 percent donations, 10 percent grants and 10 percent fundraisers. Regular fundraising events include a 6

FEBRUARY 2017

Yalana Wilson with her daughter Zay'onna Harvey

silent auction every fall, a Bowl for Babies event in late February and a 5K run in the spring.

Hannah’s House is also home to another outreach program, Hannah’s Attic; which provides bags of clothing and supplies for community members.

“When we have excess diaper donations, we will donate them to the community as well, where they can receive an emergency supply once a month,” Arnett said. “We also donate bags of seasonal clothing to the community.”

Arnett recalled one of her fondest memories of Hannah’s House since joining the team in summer of 2016.

“A woman had come in — come to find out she was a former resident — and was very positive about the program,” she said. “Her daughter was a new teen parent and had just had a premature baby and they had nothing for the baby. She was able to come back and utilize the program and I was so excited to get to know a former resident who had kind of lost contact with us.”

A few weeks after that, that same former resident was interviewed alongside Arnett on WKAR, giving her Hannah’s House testimony. Soon after, the Michigan State Police Department donated a Christmas tree to her family and adopted them for the holiday season.

The continual help and support provided by the program is Arnett’s favorite part about her job.

“Not only are we helping women in this situation, but we’re a continued positive resource for them after they’re in the community,” she said.

Sarah Spohn received her degree in Journalism from Lansing Community College.

She’s a concert junkie; living and breathing in both the local and national music scene. She is proud to call Lansing her home, finding a new reason every day to be smitten with the mitten.

To pee pee A DV E RTIS E M E N T

OR NOT TO

It’s two o’clock in the morning and time to get up and pee again. Getting an uninterrupted night of sleep seems impossible after middle age.

You might be surprised to learn that frequent urination may be related to obstructive sleep apnea and you may need to see a sleep specialist for diagnosis and treatment. If you urinate more than once during the night, it is abnormal. In an ideal world, you wouldn’t wake at all. These awakenings can disrupt sleep and contribute to insomnia, especially when they occur regularly. What causes frequent urination at night? Nocturia.

In both women and men, nightly awakenings to urinate are commonly associated with poor sleep, even when other symptoms such as insomnia, mood swings and excessive daytime sleepiness are reported. In fact, nocturia may be the single most common factor associated with poor sleep among the elderly.

Many people, including doctors, have the wrong idea about the cause of nocturia. It is thought that men of a certain age experience frequent urination from an enlarged prostate. Women can experience it from a hyperactive bladder, loss of bladder control, or menopause. Prescription medications are dispensed with varied results. Men may have painful procedures to reduce the prostate’s constriction of the urethra. But what if something else is to blame?

When growing older, there is another trend that often becomes apparent in sleep: obstructive sleep apnea.

In fact, the risk increases for women at the time of menopause and is characterized by repeated pauses in breathing that cause frequent awakenings, sleep fragmentation, drops in blood oxygen levels and nocturia. Sleep apnea is associated with other typical symptoms, including: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Snoring Excessive daytime sleepiness Insomnia Witnessed pauses in breathing Gasping or choking in sleep Dry mouth at night Palpitations Heartburn Night sweats Teeth grinding Morning headaches Concentration and memory problems Mood problems

If any of these symptoms are present, it may be necessary to explore sleep apnea as a potential cause of nocturia. Another significant contributor is alcohol. It triggers you to wake and urinate frequently because it affects both snoring and sleep apnea.

Many people feel they get up to urinate because they are awake and their bladder feels full. They must have awoken because they need to use the restroom and will not be able to sleep unless they do, not realizing that sleep apnea may cause these awakenings … but why is the bladder full?

3515 Coolidge Road , Suite A East Lansing, MI 48823 Phone: 517-755-6888 | Fax: 517-657-7759

The body naturally releases anti-diuretic hormone (ADH) during sleep to prevent the need to wake to urinate. It works to shut down the kidneys, preventing movement of fluids from the blood vessels to the bladder. The bladder is like a storage balloon, during sleep ADH prevents the need to wake to empty. Even if you have poor bladder function, or an enlarged prostate these other issues do not matter.

Studies show that sleep apnea changes the release of ADH. When an apnea event occurs, the body responds by preventing the release of ADH thus causing urine to produce, filling the bladder and prompting awakenings to pee during sleep.

When sleep apnea is successfully treated, the urge to pee at night diminishes and the quality of sleep is greatly improved. Treatment doesn’t fix the bladder nor does it shrink the prostate. It simply treats one of the most common and often overlooked causes of nighttime urination. In doing so, those trips to the bathroom decline and often are eliminated.

If you believe that you are getting up to pee because you drank too much in the evening, or you’re just getting older, or have been diagnosed with an enlarged prostate or a weak bladder, think again. If you have other symptoms associated with sleep apnea, meet with Dr. Mamedov to get an evaluation and treatment so you can begin to sleep through the night again.

Call Comprehensive Sleep Center at 517-755-6888 to schedule your consultation.

CAWLM.COM

DR. OKTAI MAMEDOV, MD

7

BUSINESS PROFILE

BY ADAM LANSDELL | PHOTOS BY ERIKA HODGES

East Lansing’s Biggest Little Flower Shop Making the community its family for nearly 40 years The quaint 1920’s home that sits at the corner of Hagadorn Road and East Grand River Ave. is a staple of the community and has been for some time. While it’s no longer a home in the traditional sense, it is the home of one of East Lansing’s longest standing businesses — B/A Florist.

The “B/A” in the company’s title is derived from the name of its original owner, Barbara Ann Hollowick.

Founded back in June 1979, the company had a more basic business model than what’s present today; the store originally focused on providing goods for plant growth and greenhouse development but made the bold decision to expand to providing floral options as well. Today, the next generation of this family business thrives.

Owner, Laura Van Ark, never planned on being in the floral industry, yet nearly 33 years later she’s happy to be here. As a Michigan State University graduate that double majored in Textiles and Merchandising Management, Van Ark originally intended to seek out roles in the once booming automobile industry.

When a job wasn’t readily available, she dived into something she knew best, with some uncertainty of what the future would hold.

“I did not have another job waiting at the time of graduation and my mom suggested that I join the business for five years and then decide what I want to do,” explained Van Ark. “That was 1984 and I’m still here! My mother’s example and fierce drive guides me in all I do. I am proud to carry on her legacy.”

Each year, Valentine’s Day brings business in droves, as customers flock in to find the perfect arrangement for their lover.

This boom in sales has been a recurring trend for years, but outside of the holiday business, sales haven’t always been so kind.

Over the years, the company has transitioned from being a small business to a successful, established pillar of the local economy and surrounding community. Like many small businesses, past and present, this ascension to notoriety was no small feat. The floral industry has faced a decline in storefronts nationwide over the years, as small businesses are continuously forced to hold their ground against large corporations.

“I ask the consumer to consider what it does to the small retailer when they choose to purchase in a big box store,” said Van Ark. “The one thing we offer the consumer that they will not get in a big box store is professional, personal, courteous and knowledgeable service. Our focus is on quality — not only in service, but in the flowers we sell as well. I am very, very choosy about the grade of product we sell in the store.”

The shop sees its role in the community as something to be cherished; without its customers, it would be able to stay afloat, but it wouldn’t be able to flourish the way it has. The customers of B/A Florist aren’t just the numbers behind the business, they’re also the inspiration.

“One of our favorite things to observe is someone who comes in for the first time knowing little about flowers and over time they get more and more confident in their knowledge until soon they are boldly choosing flowers themselves,” explained Van Ark. “We also learn so much from our customers and it’s always fun to see what they pick out, sometimes things we wouldn’t even think of!”

These observations and the knowledge of nearly 40 years of industry expertise don’t start and end

8 FEBRUARY 2017 Employees of B/A Florist

Laura Van Ark, owner of B/A Florist

at the register.

B/A Florist continues to separate itself from its competitors by acting as an educator. They offer classes on floral arrangements, run a frequently updated blog and more. The company looks to motivate the next generation of florists and lend its knowledge to those around them.

“B/A Florist has always had a very strong emphasis on education. Not only among our employees, but we like to share the knowledge with our customers as well. We like to inform them about the flowers and plants they choose, and how to properly care for them,” mentioned Van Ark. “The most popular class is the private party for a group of friends where we focus on a certain style and talk about the aspects of the chosen design, the flowers and foliage that are included and how to care for the arrangement in order to get the longest possible vase life.”

By building upon its foundation within the community, there’s no telling where they’ll go next.

What’s for certain is B/A Florist will be right by our sides as we’ve been right by theirs.

To learn more about B/A Florist, visit baflorist.com.

Adam Lansdell is an Alumni of Grand Valley State University, and currently a Communication Specialist with M3 Group of Lansing. With a passion for all things creative it comes as no surprise that he’s also a musician, movie buff and graphic designer.

Adam spends his down time biking, and spending too much of his personal income on concert tickets or vinyl records.

FINANCIAL FACTS

BY DEIDRE DAVIS

Save money this winter WHILE STILL STAYING WARM

We are nearing the “dead of winter” as they say.

As the weeks progress, so do the temperatures — downward. This is the time of year when we think about staying warm, while trying to keep our energy costs affordable. Here are some suggestions for doing just that: Embrace any and all sunlight Sunlight has been the earth’s furnace since the beginning of time. Take advantage of sunlight on the days it’s available this winter. Keeping your curtains or blinds on south-facing windows open during the day will bring in the most sunlight, in turn creating a natural source of heat to help warm your home and cut energy costs. Make sure to close your curtains and blinds in the evening to ensure the heat stays in and doesn’t seep back out through cold windows.

Locate drafts and block them Identifying gaps around doors and windows before the winter months begin could save you

money in energy costs and lead to your home being heated more efficiently. Drafts, which come through these gaps, force your furnace to work harder and make your utility bills more expensive.

Look into installing draft stoppers, applying selfadhesive weather stripping to doors and placing plastic film over your windows.

Add moisture to the air The advantage of moist air is that it holds heat better. If more heat is held in the air, your furnace will run less and save you money in the long run.

To create moisture in the air, think about getting a humidifier, place a pan of water near your radiator, or keep the exhaust fan off after a hot shower to help your home-heating efforts.

Keep water temperatures down This might seem like a nearly impossible task in the winter months. We all love a hot shower after getting out from under warm blankets in the morning, but lowering your water heater’s

temperature to the “warm” or “normal” (120°F) setting will cut back the energy used to heat water in your home.

Turn down the thermostat As the temperatures outside continue to grow colder, your furnace wants to run more frequently.

This means increased energy costs. When you’re not home during the day, consider lowering the thermostat setting by 10-15 degrees. Even a difference of a few degrees will help you in cutting costs. When you finally arrive home and it’s time to turn the temperature up, try setting it as low as comfortably possible and wear layers or get under a blanket to create extra free heat for yourself.

Deidre Davis is the Vice President of Marketing and Communications 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.

MIX&MINGLE Connecting with women from all over the tri-county area while getting down to the serious business of having fun.

FRIDAY, MARCH 10, 5-7:30 P.M.

COMPREHENSIVE SLEEP CENTER 3515 COOLIDGE ROAD, SUITE A EAST LANSING, MI 48823 517.755.6888 DR. OKTAI MAMEDOV, MD

CAWLM.COM

9

MOVIE REVIEW

BY ADAM LANSDELL

“PASSENGERS” IS A GENRE-MASHING ROLLERCOASTER THROUGH DEEP SPACE Desolation is a common trope in cinema that banks on its viewers fears of being alone, stranded and incapable of self-preservation. In years’ past, films like “Castaway,” “The Martian” and “Gravity” have taken this experience of hopelessness to new heights. In director Morten Tyldum’s (“Imitation Game” and “Head Hunters”) latest film, he takes this concept one step further but with a confrontational dash of romance in the mix.

Passengers’ futuristic setting takes place aboard the Avalon – a commercial voyager ship holding some 5,000 passengers in hibernation, as they embark on a 120-year long flight to a new planet.

Passenger Jim Preston (Chris Pratt), a mechanical engineer, awakens from his sleep chamber nearly 90 years before the ship is expected to arrive.

Preston finds himself alone, on a massive ship with

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no contact to the real world, other humans or the ability to go back into hibernation.

During the first act of the film, we follow Preston’s first year onboard the Avalon. The starship is stacked with amenities — he plays basketball, watches movies and even manages to hack his way into a luxury suite — things could be worse … right? Preston’s only form of social contact comes in the form of a bartending android, Arthur (Martin Sheen) who’s a keen companion and conversation piece, but a terrible support system for the moral options of humanity that swing in front of Preston.

As time alone turns into desperation and suicidal thoughts begin to kick in — these things simply aren’t enough to continue living for.

Just as all seems lost, we’re introduced to our second lead — a famous writer from the Big Apple named Aurora Lane (Jennifer Lawrence). Preston’s not only relieved to have companionship once again, he is obsessed to some extent. As time passes, the two embrace one another and become lovers. The film weighs heavily on a “last two people on earth” situation to fuel its romance; we never truly see these characters develop or learn many of the finer details of their lives before either made the sacrifice to leave their lives behind for the great beyond.

While the romantic elements of this film could benefit from a stronger backstory, it remains Sci-Fi at its core. It struggles to identify as either a romance or an action film. While Act One focuses on SciFi elements, Act Two is focused on the romance aspect. The final acts focus on a worst-case scenario situation, in which our leads must work to prevent the ship from a catastrophic failure, dooming the lives of its other 5,000 passengers.

“Passengers” courageously attempts to distance itself from films past with a formulaic mix. Without the blending of genres, the film would simply be a duplicate with little to desire. Its likeable cast and conceptual revelations are something worth acknowledging. This Valentine’s Day, it could be the perfect date movie — a love story for her and an action adventure for him.

Adam Lansdell is an Alumni of Grand Valley State University, and currently a Communication Specialist with M3 Group of Lansing. With a passion for all things creative it comes as no surprise that he’s also a musician, movie buff and graphic designer.

Adam spends his down time biking, and spending too much of his personal income on concert tickets or vinyl records.

REGISTER for the Mid-Michigan Race for the Cure and help us save lives April 23, 2017 2:00 pm Adado Riverfront Park komenmichigan.org/mmrace

10

FEBRUARY 2017

FEATURE

BY ALICIA PILMORE anonymity, which can lead to some unusual encounters.

Jenna*, like many people who try online dating, met some people who were not quite what they seemed before she met her boyfriend.

“I talked to a guy for a few weeks who I got along with really well. We liked the same movies and music and had the same opinions about a lot of things. He made me laugh and was very intelligent so when he asked to meet, I immediately said yes,” she recalled.

“I should have said no. He was very loud, had no etiquette in public and at the end of the date, he asked me how well he did! He said he must’ve done well because he didn’t drop any racial slurs. Then he asked me to come over to “watch TV”, promising no “funny business” unless I wanted there to be, along with a creepy wink. I promptly said no thanks and I couldn’t get out of there fast enough.”

Even with experiences like this, most of the people surveyed would recommend using a dating app to those who are interested in meeting new people.

Swiping Right Doesn’t Always Lead to Mr. Right The Business of Dating in the 21st Century Dating is hard — almost every person on the planet has been on at least one bad date in their life, and the majority of people have probably dealt with even more of these second-rate dates. Between dealing with creeps at a bar and relationships with someone who could have been “the one” going bad, it’s a wonder why anyone chooses to date anymore.

an opportunity to meet new people after moving to a new place. For others, meeting new people in social settings can be difficult. Whatever the reason, more and more people are finding love online.

However, when you do meet a great new person, the feeling can be magical. Those butterflies in your stomach, the overwhelming urge to giggle every time you hear his or her name and the excitement of seeing that person again can be almost euphoric. It can make you believe in love again.

“I originally didn’t want to try online dating. I was really hoping to meet someone on my college campus, but that ship sailed with a bad experience after dating someone I met at a college event,” she said. “My friends were the ones who convinced me to make online dating profiles … they suggested Tinder and I was nervous about it, but I tried it and eventually found my current significant other.”

So, what happens when you don’t want to meet that special someone in a dingy bar, but you do want to experience the beginnings of a budding romance?

Enter online dating — the 21st century’s gift to everyone who’s ever been on a bad first date. As we creep closer to the 2020s, meeting people through online dating websites and apps like eHarmony, Match.com and Tinder has become increasingly popular. Approximately one in four couples meet online, according to a study by the Pew Research Center.

To understand how online dating experiences differ from in-person encounters, Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine conducted a survey of men and women who met their significant others online, and this is what we found: Everyone who uses online dating sites has different reasons for doing so. For some, dating apps give them

For Alyssa, who met her boyfriend using Tinder, it took some convincing to try online dating.

However, just like with in-person interactions, dating online isn’t always easy. Dating apps like Tinder, which generally seem to be geared toward shortterm relationships, come with problems of their own.

Any kind of online chatting allows for some level of

“I’m very glad I used [an online dating service], since I met my husband” said Christina, who met her husband online nearly 10 years ago. “I doubt we would have met otherwise because we didn’t have any mutual friends, nor did we go out to bars a lot and we worked in very different fields.”

Even though many people would recommend online dating, there are some stipulations that many of the people surveyed would recommend.

“Be upfront with what you’re looking for,” advised Alice*, who met her boyfriend online four years ago.

“There are plenty of people out there that use dating sites for hookups, to cheat on significant others, make friends or make lasting relationships. Always make sure you’re on the same page before you get in too deep.”

Whether you choose to meet people in-person or online, finding someone to share your life with can be a difficult task. But with an open mind and Internet access, meeting “the one” is getting easier every day. *Some names have been changed per request of participants.

Alicia Pilmore is a freelance writer and graduate student at Michigan State University. She loves writing, wine tasting and spoiling her cat, Pishi.

One in four couples meet online according to a study done by the Pew Research Center CAWLM.COM

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FEATURE

BY MEGAN MARTIN

EMPTY NESTERS OPEN THEIR HEARTS AND HOMES TO CHILDREN IN NEED St. Vincent Catholic Charities partners with local families in greater Lansing Looking in from the outside, the benefits of foster parenting might appear to be outweighed by the stress that comes with the job. Welcoming a child into your home, that has been removed from his/ her biological home due to abuse or neglect is tough enough; but going into the situation knowing that your foster child will eventually move on to another home can be even more challenging.

Angela and Byron Williams, however, disagree.

These foster parent veterans say the benefits far outweigh the challenges. The couple has been fostering children through St. Vincent Catholic Charities for ten years this month.

“Sometimes I wonder who gets the biggest benefit [from the relationship], because they have brought so much to us, seeing them grow,” said Byron.

While the couple started foster parenting when they still had their biological children living at home, the two are now empty nesters, a demographic that has recently been highlighted by St. Vincent Catholic Charities as great candidates for foster parenting, due to their experience as parents and their newfound free time.

Heather Akers, child welfare assistant director at St. Vincent Catholic Charities, explained how what they look for in a foster parent lines up perfectly with what empty nesters have to offer: a loving home. “[We look for] someone who wants to do this and wants to make an impact on a child. I think we have some really awesome foster parents. They do it because they genuinely want to make a difference in [these kids] lives,” said Akers.

“Speaking of empty nesters, I think that’s a really great time to become a foster parent. They have their kids leaving the home and want to still have that hands-on parenting experience and really help shape a child.”

Heather Akers, child welfare assistant director, at St. Vincent Catholic Charities 12

FEBRUARY 2017

The Williams’ are a perfect example of a family that still has a lot of love to give a child. In addition to parenting their biological children, they have fostered multiple children and have recently adopted their son Koran, who was a true test of what they could do as a foster, and now adoptive, parent.

“Koran is autistic,” said Byron, who is now retired from the military and the U.S. Postal Service. “Never being around autistic children before, that was a huge challenge. He was non-verbal. We decided we would try it and this little boy came into our home and he just captured all of us and showed how much he needed us and how little it took for us to provide for his needs.”

While the Williams’ admit that they haven’t had all positive experiences with foster parenting – they’ve ran into their fair share of challenges – they did say how rewarding the entire process has been for them.

“It has been a very rewarding experience,” said Angela, a retired 32-year employee of the State of Michigan. Her husband agreed.

“I knew I couldn’t just come home and do nothing,” Byron said. “I enjoy teaching and she (Angela) enjoys children and it made a great fit for children who want some guidance, some boundaries. We want to show them how to survive in this thing that you call the world. The thing I always tell people is, they don’t need you to be special, they just need you to be you.”

If you are interested in learning more about foster parenting or adoption services or about how to get involved, visit stvcc.org.

Megan Martin is the Editor of Capital Area Women’s Lifestyle Magazine and Greater Lansing Business Monthly. She is a foodie who loves art, tea, the great outdoors and spending time with her family, her Fiancé and her miniature dachshund, Oakley.

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FASHION & BEAUTY

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Love is in the air 15

Winter is still lingering in the cold Michigan air, but bundling up for the last few months of the chilly season can be done tastefully. Another holiday is upon us, so it’s time to shove aside the dull colors and pull out the reds and pinks for Valentine’s Day! The women at Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine and Kellie’s Consignments have teamed up to bring you some cozy and stylish looks that your closet will thank you for!

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CAWLM.COM

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AaboutLUVS Story Partnership, Entrepreneurship & Making Time for Coffee Dates

BY MEGAN MARTIN | PHOTOS BY ERIKA HODGES

When Jeana-Dee Allen first met Dylan Rogers, he was a college drop-out, living in his car, writing poetry and working at a sandwich shop. She had just finished a stint of organic farming along the east coast and was about to go to Michigan State University (MSU) to get her degree. With Allen’s influence, Rogers ended up returning to school and finishing with a degree from Lansing Community College and MSU, and ever since the two have been inseparable.

“I think that’s a great start to us,” explained Allen when talking about their school experiences. “Similar to your [Rogers’] school experience, we’re just always hustling.”

Hustling is quite an understatement in regard to the number of hats these two wear in the greater Lansing community.

The pair is known for their community involvement through their nonprofit backgrounds, their band and their recent endeavor, opening the highly successful, Robin Theater in REO Town.

Shortly after getting married in 2010, Rogers and Allen started The LUVS (Lansing Unionized Vaudeville Spectacle), a band that is comprised of more than 12 members that’s focused on creating shows rather than concerts. The band, alongside the couple’s individual experiences with various nonprofits and community organizations, has introduced the couple to many members of the Lansing creative community and, as a result, have become best known for their involvement in the band.

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FEBRUARY 2017

Now, the band plays a few times a year and is probably most known for their annual holiday show. Despite the success of the band, the two have struggled with separating their identity as The LUVS from their newest endeavor, the Robin Theater.

“We are now Mr. and Mrs. Robin Theater to everyone in the community, but at first everyone knew us as Mr. and Mrs. LUVS,” explained Rogers. Allen agreed, noting that the band has only played at the Robin Theater three times since it’s opening to try to keep that distinction.

The Robin Theater, located at 1105 S. Washington Ave. in REO Town, opened on Aug. 1, 2015, and despite its relatively young life in the community, the space has grown to become the premier location for anything that requires a gathering space. The theater has hosted concerts, performances, pop-up markets, fashion shows and more. It’s currently running around three events per week in the space.

Dylan Rogers and Jeana-Dee Allen, founder and owners of Robin Theater in REO Town

“I credit the whole LUVS thing to Jeana-Dee 100 percent,” explained Rogers. “When I first met her, I had been playing music before.

She would come to my performances and thought it was cool that I knew how to play instruments and things, but she didn’t like the music that I played.”

He decided to create music that he knew she would love, which resulted in the type of music that The LUVS plays.

“It’s sort of this really showy stuff with music and dancers and comedy and puppet shows, dogs even — I mean you name it,” said Rogers.

“We didn’t think it would get to this point,” said Rogers. “The thing is, we make sure anytime someone reaches out to the theater they get a response. There’s a reason you like shopping at the mom and pop shops, we are like a mom and pop theater and I think that goes a long way.”

Rogers and Allen credited the theater’s success to that high level of service as well as their community outreach, meaning doing things like opening up the space for a small fee or free to programs and organizations that need it.

JEANA-DEE ALLEN & DYLAN ROGERS CAWLM.COM

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“THE THING IS, BALANCING BEING A COUPLE AND OPENING A BUSINESS HAS BEEN REMARKABLY EASY, BUT I THINK THAT’S ALSO BECAUSE WE TALK A LOT … BUT WE DO MAKE SURE WE CAN HAVE COFFEE FOR AN HOUR AND A HALF ON SATURDAY MORNING — TO MAKE SURE WE HAVE TIME FOR EACH OTHER TOO.” “That’s part of our mission,” Allen said. “Because of our nonprofit background we are both pretty good at forming relationships with our community partners.

We understand the benefits of working with those community partners and building them.”

As of September 2016, the theater has become Rogers’ full-time job, while Allen works fulltime for MSU as the department of forestry’s communications coordinator.

“The theater is my job after my job,” she said. Allen grew up in Flint, Mich. with two parents who were small business owners and three grandmothers who were big influences in her life.

“I had lots of people who were leaders in something, whether it was my grandmother leading 4-H, my mom and her small business or my other grandmother running a farm. I’ve always had people who set goals and got things done. As far as Dylan and I’s partnership and me being the ‘sugar momma,’ as we like to say, it’s something that I 16

FEBRUARY 2017

never really necessarily thought about, it’s just the way I was,” she said.

organize and lay out schedules for things like running a big event and getting renovations done,” said Allen.

Rogers agreed, noting that their marriage as well as their business relationship is one of equality – him depending on her and her encouraging him.

While their success is clear, the two admitted that it hasn’t been an easy road. Building a business with no financial help is never easy, and for this social couple, sacrificing time with others for working on their business has been a large hole that they’ve missed.

When asked if they ever regret opening the theater, Allen admitted that it is just about every other day.

“It seems that I’m playing the role of stay-at-home husband/theater owner by night and weekend,” he said. “Jeana-Dee goes out and works the straight job and brings home our safety net and is also my other half.”

The two attributed both their success as business owners and a married couple to their communication and trust. Rogers often acts as the face of the theater and their band, doing all of the social media, the communications and the events, while Allen helps on the night of events, bringing to the table a set of problem-solving skills and a steadying factor.

“I would say that a huge piece of our relationship and our business is that he has so many ideas and I can

“It has been so wonderful and unbelievable,” she said. Rogers agreed.

“The thing is, balancing being a couple and opening a business has been remarkably easy, but I think that’s also because we talk a lot. We go on runs together and take walks in the woods and in almost 90 percent of those exterior adventures we are talking about this space and being successful … but we do make sure we can have coffee for an hour and a half on Saturday morning — to make sure we have time for each other too.”

ENTERTAINMENT ALLEY

Love

BY TAYLOR KELSAW

HAPPY

MONTH

Last year was fantastic for love and strolling down the “alley” toward marriage in Hollywood, as we got to watch relationships take their love straight to alter. In fact, almost exactly this time last year former “Sopranos” star Jamie-Lynn Sigler kicked off the year by exchanging I dos with baseball player Cutter Dykstra in Palm Springs, CA and Eva Longoria jetted off to Valle de Bravo, Mexico to tie the knot to José Antonio Bastón. Hannah Davis wed Derek Jeter just eight months after getting engaged in July 2016.

Let’s take a look at other stars that decided to tie the knot: STEVEN YEUN & JOANA PAK: “The Walking Dead” actor, and Detroit, Mich. native, tied the knot with his longtime love Pak in a romantic ceremony in Los Angeles in Dec. 2016.

MARK BALLAS & BC JEAN: “The Dancing with the Stars” pro and the songwriter of Beyoncé’s “If I Were a Boy” wed at the Calamigos Ranch in Malibu on Nov. 25 in front of family and friends, including Julianne and Derek Hough.

“Everybody was having a blast,” a source told “Us Weekly.” “It was a fun day with a lot of love and emotion. There was lots of dancing, of course, and it was a great party.”

SHIA LABEOUF AND MIA GOTH: The two surprised fans in October alongside Elvis, a fog machine and a hula dancer at a Las Vegas chapel. The couple tied the knot at Viva Las Vegas and live-streamed the entire ceremony on “TMZ.” CIARA & RUSSEL WILSON: Singer and model, Ciara married NFL quarterback, Russel Wilson during a lavish English wedding, in front of their family and closest friends in July.

TROIAN BELLISARIO & PATRICK J. ADAMS: “The Pretty Little Liars” star wed the “Suits” actor in a romantic outdoor beach ceremony in Santa Barbara, CA, in December.

ANNA CAMP & SKYLAR ASTIN: The couple wed last September, the “Pitch Perfect” stars exchanged “I dos” in front of their family and closest friends at a winery in Santa Ynez, CA. Following their nuptials, the couple took their newlywed bliss to Italy.

MICHAEL PHELPS & NICOLE JOHNSON: The Olympic swimmer and his longtime love secretly wed on June 13 in Paradise Valley, Arizona, in a ceremony officiated by Phelps’ longtime friend and agent, Peter Carlisle.

COREY FELDMAN & COURTNEY ANNE: “The Goonies” actor and his “Corey’s Angels” bandmate exchanged vows at Sir Elton John’s Fizz champagne lounge at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas on Nov. 22.

JOSH BROLIN & KATHRYN BOYD: “The Milk” actor and the model tied the knot in a romantic ceremony on Sept. 24 in Cashiers, North Carolina, in front of family, including dad James Brolin, stepmom Barbra Streisand and closest friends.

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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17

LOCAL WOMEN

Mackenzie Schanski RESTORING SKIN & SELF-CONFIDENCE

BY ELLEN DOWLING | PHOTO BY ERIKA HODGES When Mackenzie Schanski isn’t relaxing with family and friends, this self-described worker bee is at Doctor’s Approach, a medical and surgical dermatology practice in Okemos, where she has worked as a certified laser technician and esthetician for the last three-and-a-half years. Her own struggles with her skin inspired Schanski to pursue a career in skin care.

“During my teen years, I dealt with pretty bad acne through the jaw line area. It takes a big toll on your confidence. You don’t want to be in pictures and you don’t want to go out and be in public. What my dermatologist did for me, I wanted to do for others ... I wanted to instill confidence in people that was instilled back in me,” she said.

Schanski got her start when she received her esthetician license from Douglas J Aveda Institute in East Lansing. She then went on to receive her degree from the National Laser Institute in Scottsdale, Ariz.

A lifelong learner, continuing education has always been very important to Schanski, making her job at Doctor’s Approach a perfect fit.

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“Here at Doctor’s Approach, Dr. [Marcy] Street believes in continuing education; we go to workshops, conventions and have in-house laser training,” she explained.

Today, Schanski specializes in many dermatological areas, including microdermabrasion, chemical peels, cool sculpting, micro needling, laser skin resurfacing, facials and leg vein removal, to name a few. Many people come in with various health concerns and Schanski says she enjoys meeting with each and every one.

“I don’t want to say we’re almost like therapists, but you build a relationship with people. You give them confidence and you help them smile again.”

The skin care guru offered her advice for achieving the best results with your skin care, noting that your skin care regimen is at the core of healthy skin.

“I do feel that the basis of having good skin is that you have to have a solid skin care regimen at home in order to see improvement and changes in your

skin,” said Schanski. “If you’re coming in here and you’re doing all these chemical peels on your skin, but you’re using bar soap on your skin at home … you’re not going to see any improvement. My saying is, you don’t buy a Ferrari and never do any maintenance on your Ferrari. You don’t invest in your skin care by having procedures done without investing in your skin care at home.”

Aside from home care, Schanski advises two additional options to better your skin. She suggests visiting Doctor’s Approach and having a complimentary, half-hour consultation done to figure out where to start. If you aren’t ready for the dermatologist just yet, using vitamin C and antioxidants on your skin in the morning and a retinol and resurfacing-based product in the evening is her recommendation.

Whether she’s spending time with family and friends or working with a patient, Schanski has truly found her passion. To her, helping others feel comfortable in their skin is “a reward enough in itself.”

LOCAL WOMEN

Maggie Sanders SANDERS SUCCEEDS WITH SWEETS

BY SARAH SPOHN | PHOTO BY ERIKA HODGES When 32 year-old Maggie Sanders was younger, some of her fondest memories were spent with her grandma, baking and cooking. Little did she know that these experiences would lead to opening her own business, Mimi’s Sweet Shop, decades later.

“I started working in retail when I was a junior in high school. That was my first job and I really liked it,” Sanders said. “I’m a big people person and throughout all of my experiences in retail, I really found a love for customer service.”

After high school, the Lansing native went to Saginaw Valley State University and later returned home to Lansing Community College, studying political science. She interned with the House of Representatives, but realized politics wasn’t her calling.

I didn’t want to go to law school, I never conformed to anything. I kind of always went by the seat of my pants and did whatever I wanted to do at the time.”

After being inspired by her grandmother’s love for sweets, baking and cooking, Sanders looked to open a diner, serving her grandmother’s recipes. After more research, and help from her dad, Ed Rodgers, she decided a sweet shop would provide the best of both worlds: more candy, coffee, ice cream, milkshakes, hot fudge sundaes and less pressure than a full-blown restaurant. Mimi’s Sweet Shop opened in Lansing’s The Heights at Eastwood, behind Eastwood Towne Center and NCG cinema, in May of 2016.

“I probably would have been a great lawyer,” she said.

“Because I can argue to no end. I just don’t think that would have fulfilled me.”

The business focuses on Michigan-made products and sells and uses Michigan-based suppliers for the shop, including Faygo soda, Bettermade potato chips, Everfresh juices, Quality Dairy milk, Paramount Coffee and more. For Mimi’s Sweet Shop, it’s important to use as much as possible from Michigan.

“I always wanted my own business,” Sanders said.

“But my dad really wanted me to go to law school.

Of course, it’s no easy task to manage a new business, let alone keeping a happy husband and kids

entertained, all while going to school full-time at Central Michigan University.

“People call me crazy,” she said. “It’s a good craziness, and I feel like I thrive in craziness. I feel like if I’m stagnant, I don’t do good. I have to be busy, I have to have something to focus on, or multiple things to focus on.”

Despite the busy lifestyle, it’s a life Sanders is happy to share with her supportive family unit. Her advice to budding entrepreneurs and business owners is to put in the work.

“If you have a good idea, run with it; do it,” she said.

“The one thing I would say is don’t quit. It’s really easy to give up on something.”

She said the work, the constant daily lessons learned and smiling friendly customers make all of the effort worth it.

“Most people who come in here end up leaving with a smile on their faces, which makes me happy,” she said.

CAWLM.COM

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DIY QUICK CRAFT

BY AMI ICEMAN-HAUETER

A SWITCH FOR (PAINT) SWATCHES! If you’re anything like me, you have debated the perfect color for your bedroom (bathroom, kitchen … really all the rooms in my house) for years but have yet to decide on what shade of gray will best compliment your mismatched bed set. Since I have yet to make a decision and it looks unlikely that I will anytime soon, I decided it was time to put all the paint swatches I’ve acquired over the years to good use by creating an erasable calendar that might just help me get organized.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED: • • • • • • •

A large frame Paint swatches (colors of your choice) Double sided tape or glue stick Poster board cut down to the size of your frame Ruler Scissors Dry erase markers and eraser

WHAT TO DO: 1. First, measure out the needed space to fit your calendar squares into your frame. You’ll need to fit a grid that is seven squares wide by five squares tall. Be sure to leave room at the top to add your month and day headers.

2. Mark the spaces in pencil on the poster board.

If you have extra space in your frame you can always add an additional column for notes.

3. Once you know the size of each of your squares, cut your paint swatch colors down to match.

4. To add a little fun to your layout you can cut seven extra squares of color then cut them in half to act as day headers.

5. Layout color squares to match your grid and glue into place.

6. Place the poster board into the frame (be sure to clean the glass inside well before closing).

7. Use the dry erase markers to add the month and day headers as well as dates to each of your squares and you are ready to get organized!

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.

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FEBRUARY 2017

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REFLECTIONS

BY TEECE ARONIN

LOVE’S GRAND EXITS In February, many women’s fancies turn to thoughts of love, fresh starts for the newish year or in my case, Groundhog’s Day; I like Ground Hog’s Day.

— a truth he’d hidden from me all that time. The reason for the secrecy, as he put it: “you wouldn’t have been able to handle it.”

But, when my editor at CAWLM told me the theme of this month’s column was “love,” I said to myself, “Darn it, Ground Hog’s Day is out.”

As far as I was concerned, he had stolen a year’s worth of my time and companionship while keeping me in the dark about something I deserved to know, and I was angrier about that and his judgmental attitude, than I was about his so called “truth.”

So, love it is.

I’m divorced, and despite my willingness to meet someone new, I’m alone at present — romantically that is. I do have two teens, two cats and a dog, so my life is by no means dull.

The prospect of being romantically solo this Valentine’s Day has me thinking about love’s grand exits — or rather, those failed. These are the dramatic departures you attempt when you’re angry with your partner, only to have them go horribly wrong.

The last time this happened to me, I was in a restaurant with a man I’d been dating for about a year. He’d picked this opportunity to break up with me because of a very dark “truth” about himself

Our relationship ended on the spot. At my car, I unlocked the door, flung it open with a flourish, and swept in, planning to burn rubber on my way past him. Instead, I was confused by the way I seemed to plummet, falling much farther than usual before my rear hit the seat.

Why was my car seat so low? Where were my crumpled fast food bags, my bread crumbs and my dashboard dust? Why were fuzzy dice hanging from the rear-view mirror? Whose sunglasses were lying in the passenger seat? Why had my key worked?

I sat there for several seconds, stunned and trapped. I couldn’t get out because the old boyfriend was still in the parking lot. He would

have seen me climbing sheepishly from one car and anticlimactically into another. Then again, I couldn’t just sit there because the owner of the car I was in could walk up with a six-pack any second … yes, the man I’d been seeing took me to only the best places.

Luckily, the old boyfriend got promptly into his car and drove off. I seized the moment to scurry from the wrong car to the right one. Once inside, the ridiculousness of the situation settled in and I started to laugh.

I laughed so hard that if I’d had a pair of fuzzy dice hanging from the rear-view mirror like my other car, the one that wasn’t actually mine, they would have swung from the rocking of the car.

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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CAREERS FOR CONSIDERATION

BY TAYLOR MACKEY

Showing the body some love February is a month dedicated to celebrating love.

While most will celebrate Valentine’s Day with chocolate or flowers, chiropractor Dr. Rachel Holmberg thinks the best way to show love is by treating your body well.

For the Eaton Rapids native, chiropractic medicine is far more than just cracking backs. What initially drew her to the field was its holistic approach and differing philosophy from other medical professions.

A focus on health and wellness is what drives her passion for her work.

“Most people come in because they’re in pain; their lower back hurts, they have headaches or maybe their neck is bothering them. Chiropractic adjustments help your body be in more of a healing state, when everything is in alignment and working correctly, and the nerves are free to do what they need to do. People feel they can function better and live a better life.”

Dr. Holmberg didn’t always know what type of medicine she wanted to practice. After graduating from Spring Arbor University, she spent time exploring different professions but nothing seemed to click. A random encounter with the suggestion, “you should be a chiropractor,” prompted her to visit

a local office, where she says “I immediately knew that’s what I wanted to do.”

She went on to study chiropractic medicine at the National University of Health Sciences and, following graduation, moved back to Michigan. She moved to the Gilead Healing Center last March where she now practices family-centered care with an emphasis on pregnancy and pediatrics. This specialized work is one of the most rewarding parts of the job for her.

“I just love being able to work with pregnant moms that may be in pain or have concerns. I’ll do a specific pregnancy adjustment and most of the time they have a great birth. When the mom brings the baby in because she trusts me and wants to see her child healthy too, that’s the best part for me.”

This emphasis on patient care is what Dr. Holmberg thinks is crucial for her to be effective in her job. She spends more time on adjustments than the standard “really quick 10 to 15 minutes.” The additional time with patients lets her practice the skill she thinks is most essential for chiropractors: listening.

are here. If you don’t care or listen to them they’re going to leave with the impression that they didn’t get much better.”

One piece of advice she has for women who are interested in the field is to “keep at it and never give up. It can be difficult if you’re trying to get married, start a family and have a lot of other pressures. Just take your time and go at your own pace.”

As for how people can incorporate more health and wellness into their daily lives, Dr. Holmberg says it doesn’t need to be a huge lifestyle change. “Drinking more water and stretching are small things that will make a big difference. And taking the time to do something for yourself, whether it be a massage or working out, is an excellent way to get your joints moving and show your body some love.”

“A lot of people come in and are in a great deal of pain.

They have a story to tell and a reason for why they

Taylor is junior at Michigan State University pursuing degrees in English and Advertising.

She is currently working as a communication intern for M3 Group. She's a fan of good food, bad puns and listening to the Hamilton soundtrack on repeat.

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PBS KIDS and the PBS KIDS Logo are registered trademarks of Public Broadcasting Service. Used with permission. ODD SQUAD © 2016 The Fred Rogers Company. All Rights Reserved. DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD © 2016 The Fred Rogers Company. All rights reserved. Wild Kratts® © 2016 Kratt Brothers Co. Ltd./ 9 Story Media Group Inc. Wild Kratts®, Creature Power® are owned by Kratt Brothers Company Ltd. All rights reserved. SPLASH AND BUBBLES TM & © 2016 The Jim Henson Company. All Rights Reserved.

QUEEN OF THE ROAD

BY LISA KOST was not expecting. He gently pulled out her chair, she looked up as if she knew just what was coming. He offered her his firm but very elderly hand, she placed her arm in his, and let him ease her ever so gently into the wheelchair he had secured next to the table.

Looking for Love When was the last time you witnessed true love? I’m talking about the kind of love that needs no words — bold, raw, unapologetic — and rare. I was blessed to see it once, between the man in the black beret and a woman dressed in white in a French café.

The scene was like a Truffaut movie. She was wearing all white, except for a pair of high black boots and a red scarf, delicately placed around her neck. He wore a white linen suit, gently rumpled like good linen should, and loafers — the expensive kind ­— with just enough tanned ankles showing through.

As they sat down, I noticed he never took his eyes off of her, even when the waiter and water glass

attempted to interrupt his stare. She was his singular focus. They didn’t speak, but only stared, and I could tell by her smile she had known him a long time.

I was mesmerized. I had seen couples in love before, especially in Paris, but this was different. Each movement of his head or hand produced an equally beautiful turn, smile, or touch back from her. As if watching a great dance, I could see how they moved — in a cadence and song known only to them.

And then it stopped. The man stood up and abruptly walked to the front of the café. Her eyes followed him to the door as she leaned slowly forward in polite anticipation. He quickly returned with something I

EXERCISE YOUR HEART IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE

I was unable to breathe. He stood tall and proud, not only because of the quiet way in which they mastered this ritual day after day, but of her, and her constant beauty and the love they shared for more than 50 years. How do I know? When they left the café, I asked the waiter how long they had been married. He didn’t know — only that they had met every day in this same café since it opened in 1945.

When I think of love, I remember them. I know I likely won’t live to celebrate 50 years with the one I love, but I am so thankful I witnessed this lovely moment. You see, real love is never what you expect; it has its own story, full of twists and turns and nuances only two people can understand. It is gritty, and good, more valuable than gold, and very old.

For my daughter, Sarah, who married her high school sweetheart, Michael, on Sept. 17, 2016.

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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LIFESTYLE

BY CATRICE LANE

A Day to Celebrate

DESPITE RELATIONSHIP STATUS

FIND A LOVE If you’re single, pity parties and junk food marathons can be stereotypically associated with Valentine’s Day. But it’s important for us to be reminded that Valentine’s Day is not just for glorifying romance, it can also be a day to celebrate love in general. The love of family, friends, community, yourself and life overall. In this issue of CAWLM, I am going to share some ideas about how to celebrate Valentine’s Day, no matter what your relationship status may be.

CODDLE YOURSELF Since Valentine’s Day is all about love, spend the day doing that. Play hooky from whatever obligation you have that day and take time out for yourself, to do something that you love. Personally, I like to take a drive and hang out in a nearby city. I enjoy going shopping, making a few cocktails and enjoying the scenery and people watching. It may sound silly to you, but it is truly something that I love to do.

FOLLOW THROUGH For those of you that cannot

bring themselves to take the time to be indulgent, go the opposite direction and spend the day finishing (or starting) something that you’ve been meaning to tackle. Albeit not my choice, I do know those women that like to catch up on household projects, create a budget of some sort or organize/rearrange a room

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for the millionth time. While I wouldn’t put this on my Valentine’s Day list, because this day is about celebrating love, if you are a person that “loves” things like these, I say GO FOR IT, valentine!

FALL IN LOVE WITH SOMETHING NEW If I were up for a

new challenge, I would definitely think about taking a dance or cooking lesson. Mixing it up and coming up with an out of the box pick is not only fun, but it gives you a fun activity that you can invite others to do as well. This idea can include a group of your friends (single or partnered up) so that you don’t feel like you have to separate or have the cliché evening that most single and married folks tend to have. Take control of being the lonely person without a Valentine, by enjoying a night on the town.

SEND LOVE SOMEONE’S WAY The best way to celebrate love is to give love and laughter to someone else.

I think our childhood traditions were accurate.

Remember when we had to buy valentines for all of our classmates? Even though we’ve gotten older, that habit should have never stopped. Take it a step further and do a “Valentine Secret Santa” exchange.

Everyone could draw names from a hat and have a secret exchange. Tailor the gifts to fit a certain theme like, “accessories for the sexy” (boa, red lipstick, body glitter, etc.). After the exchange, each person has to

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So, regardless if you are the one that will be single for 10 more years or if you are getting married tomorrow, plan the celebration that’s right for you. It’s ok to look at this day more broadly than just a chance to rekindle the romance in your life. While I’m a fan of sharing Valentine’s with the one you love, it’s just as appropriate to celebrate love, no matter what situation you’re in. Make this Valentine’s Day, the best day ever! Thanks for following my journey. If you have Valentine’s Day idea’s that you would like to share, feel free to email me at catchat359@gmail.com.

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wear their accessory out with the group for a night on the town. I don’t know about you, but this would be the perfect opportunity to have fun with the person’s name you pulled. I’ve always wanted to subject one of my friends to wearing a halter top that says “I’m bringing sexy back.”

*Source: Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts (IDFA).

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A PET'S TALE

COMMON CANINE QUESTIONS 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 HAVE HEARD THAT SIDEWALK SALT IS BAD FOR DOGS, IS THIS TRUE? Yes, ingredients commonly found in ice melt can be harmful to your pet if ingested. Be sure to wipe your pet’s paws after a walk, or, you could also buy booties/socks for your dog. There are also pet-friendly, non-toxic ice melt options available for you to buy and use at home. Do some research on them and pick the one that’s best for you to be sure you are keeping your pet safe. And remember, even when there isn’t a lot of salt, the colder temperatures will still affect your dog’s paw pads.

There are balms available for dog’s paws to cure this. Check with your veterinarian for what would work best for your dog.

MY DOG COUNTER SURFS — WHAT CAN I DO TO STOP THIS BEHAVIOR? A behavior like this is self-rewarding for the dog, to stop it, you need to manage your dog’s environment. Keep all food off the counter, if you have to leave food out, be sure it is in a container with a lid and tightly closed, as far back on the

KEEP UP WITH YOUR

RESOLUTIONS GET FIT FOR A GOOD SPORTS

BY JILL BAILEY

counter as possible.

Try gating off the area so they can’t get on the counter when you aren’t able to watch them.

When you are working in the kitchen, you could try having your dog hang out in the kitchen with you and rewarding them when they are behaving.

I’M WORRIED MY DOG DOESN’T GET ENOUGH ACTIVITY & IS BORED WHILE I AM AT WORK. ANY SUGGESTIONS? There are definitely options out there — doggy daycares, dog walkers, friends or relatives that could play with or walk the dog while you’re at work. Check with your friends and co-workers to see if they have any suggestions. Depending on your budget and how many times a week you’d like to do this, you can find a way that works for you both.

Jill Bailey is the Media Manager at M3 Group by day, by night she is helping train dogs for Canine Coaches! 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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RECIPE INGREDIENTS

r a g Su es i k Coo C I S S A L C

E FROM TH

NIK

KITCHE

Y BLAT H T A C F NO

• • • •

1 cup white sugar 1 cup butter (unsalted), softened 1 large egg, beaten 3 cups white flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS • Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

• In a large bowl, mix the white sugar, butter and egg with electric mixer or by hand until smooth and creamy.

• When well combined, add the flour, baking powder, salt and vanilla extract.

Mix well by hand with a large spoon until the batter starts coming together.

• Split the dough in half and keep half in the bowl. On a lightly floured surface, take half of the batter and, with a rolling pin or with the palms of your hands, flatten to about 1/4 inch and with a heart shaped cookie cutter, press out nine hearts.

• Put on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake for 15 minutes or until the cookies are just starting to turn brown.

• Remove from oven and transfer to a wire rack to continue cooling. Repeat with the other half of the dough.

• When cool, frost with vanilla frosting and decorate with colored sprinkles.

• Store covered at room temperature for up to one week for freshness.

enjoy!

Yields: 18 cookies Cathy Blatnik is originally from Maryland, but has been living in the Midwest for more than 15 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!

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LEADERS AT EMERGENT BIOSOLUTIONS KRISTEN PABST, SENIOR SCIENTIST, MANUFACTURING SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY With a bachelor’s degree in company for nearly nine years, Pabst says what’s biochemistry and molecular kept her here so long are the biology and a master’s people she works with, and degree in industrial the opportunities she’s had. microbiology, Kristen Pabst began her career with “Everyone is willing to help Emergent as an assistant each other out. We all want scientist in the Process to see one another succeed,” Development Department, Pabst said. “I’ve also had where she helped with the opportunity to learn and studies in the pilot plant. grow at Emergent. After nine Over the years, Pabst was years, I still feel like I learn promoted to associate something new every day.” scientist, scientist, and now Kristen Pabst, Senior Scientist, Manufacturing serves as a senior scientist Sciences and Technology at Pabst has had a successful in the Manufacturing Emergent BioSolutions career. She has a patent on a Sciences and Technology cell line that she worked on during her schooling (MSAT) Group. In this role, she leads transfer and at Michigan State University, which is now validation of processes and methods for BioThrax® ― the company’s vaccine to protect against anthrax licensed to a vaccine manufacturer. She has also been recognized for her contributions to disease ― and other products.

Emergent with an Achievement Award, Team Champion Award and the company’s highest Having worked in multiple labs in academia recognition―an Excellence Award. and industry, and now having been with the

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When asked what advice she would give to someone new in their career, she said, “don’t be afraid to speak up; sometimes a fresh perspective is more valuable than experience.

And make sure you’re always asking questions.”

Away from work, Pabst enjoys spending time with her husband and young son.

Emergent BioSolutions is a global specialty biopharmaceutical company seeking to protect and enhance life by offering specialized products to healthcare providers and governments to address medical needs and emerging health threats. Pabst’s enjoyment of her coworkers and opportunities to grow are what have kept her with the company for nearly nine years.

TRI COUNTY EVENTS

EVENTS FEBRUARY 1

Ice Skating Rink Opens at Valley Court Park, East Lansing A pop-up ice skating rink will be open at Valley Court Park, Feb. 1-28, 2017.

More details will be posted soon at downtownel.com.

FEBRUARY 3

The Shopping Lunch, Okemos Kellie’s Consignments invites you to shop and network during your lunch.

Lunch will always be available for $5 per person. This event will take place on the first Friday of every month from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. at 5000 Marsh Rd.

FEBRUARY 3-5

Mid-Michigan Women’s Expo, Lansing Browse more than 250 exhibits and seminars tailored to women and their families.

Shop for fashion,

jewelry, home décor, beauty and cosmetics and on-site spa services.

Explore presentations on finance, healthcare and cooking. Tickets are available at the door. The expo will be held at the Lansing Center and will be open on Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit lansing.org for more information.

FEBRUARY 4

Cross Country Skiing Class, Okemos Learn to glide through a winter wonderland and experience beautiful snow covered scenery.

The class includes tips from an expert on staying warm in the cold, practice of basic skills such as gliding, turning, going up and down hills and guided skiing on the park trails. Admission is $15 per person with their own equipment and $20 per person if renting equipment.

Skiing will take place at Harris Nature Center at 3998 Van Atta Road from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Space is limited, so please register in advance.

Call (517) 349-3866 to register.

FEBRUARY 7

Sweetheart Ball, East Lansing Children and their guardian are invited to a dance at the East Lansing Hannah Community Center. Dress up and dance the night away while enjoying refreshments as well as a keepsake to bring home. The ball will be from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at 819 Abbot Road, East Lansing, MI 48823. Call (517) 333-2580 ext. 0 or visit cityofeastlansing.com for more information.

FEBRUARY 8

Daddy Daughter Dance, Lansing Delta Township Parks and Recreation proudly presents one of the most exciting events of the year. Dance to your favorite tunes in the elegant surroundings of the Crowne Plaza Hotel and enjoy a night of dad and daughter time. A ticket incudes a corsage for the lady, photographs and more! Tickets are $10 for residents and $12 for non-residents. Call (517) 3238555 to register, or visit deltami.gov. Dinner is not included in the cost of the dance. Dinner reservations can be made by calling (517) 391-1307. The dance will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. at

the Crowne Plaza Lansing West, 925 S. Creyts Road.

FEBRUARY 9

Chocolate Walk, Old Town Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the Old Town Lansing Chocolate Walk.

Explore Old Town while picking up some gourmet chocolate along the way! Each ticket for this event will receive a two pound box to fill with chocolate, a punch card and a map of participating businesses.

Find more information and tickets at iloveoldtown.org.

FEBRUARY 16

Simple Book Making, Mason The Capital Area District Library of Mason is welcoming mixed media artist Jane Reiter. Get inspired as Reiter shows you how to make simple books with paper, scissors and tape!

Enhanced with writing, drawing, stickers and more. Create your own journal, diaries or scrapbooks. All supplies will be provided. Contact CADL Mason library to register by calling (517) 676-9088.

FAMILIES

MATTER TO US.

YOU MATTER TO US. 517-272-3820 www.trinitywired.com 3355 Dunckel Road, Lansing, MI 48911

CAWLM.COM

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TRI COUNTY EVENTS FEBRUARY 18

Spiritual Day Retreat, Howell Treat yourself for a day of spiritual pampering and self-care. Explore chakra clearing, meditation, sound healing, chair massage, smudging, workshops, spirit circles and a catered vegetarian lunch! Spiritual swag bags will be given to all who attend. Tickets are $100 each.

Space is limited, so reserve your spot by purchasing your ticket online at eventful.com.

FEBRUARY 18

Winter Seed Sowing Workshop, Lansing Learn how to plant seeds for your garden in the middle of winter!

Make mini greenhouses out of recycled materials that can be kept outdoors even in the coldest of temperatures. Come spring, sturdy seedlings will be ready to be transplanted into your vegetable garden and flower beds. Supplies will be provided by Fenner Nature Center. The cost to attend this workshop is $20 per person and $15 for Fenner Conservancy Members. Reserve your spot by calling (517) 483-4224.

FEBRUARY 19

Grand Ledge Opera House Bridal Show, Grand Ledge The Grand Ledge Opera House proudly presents its 13th Annual Bridal show. Attendees have the opportunity to speak with some of Mid-Michigan’s finest wedding vendors.

Displays will offer cakes, catering, ceremony locations, DJ’s, decorators, florists, guest accommodations, ceremony officiates, photographers, tuxedos, beauty solutions and more! Door prizes will be announced every 30 minutes. Admission is $4 per person.

The bridal show is from noon to 3 p.m. and is located at 121 South Bridge St. For more information contact the Grand Ledge Opera House at (517) 627-1443.

FEBRUARY 23

Jungle Scene on Foil Using Acrylics, East Lansing Paint a fantastic jungle scene with popular instructor Carolyn 28

FEBRUARY 2017

Donahue. The class is from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Prime Time Seniors’ Program located at 819 Abbot Road, East Lansing, MI 48823. Cost is $55 for members and $60 for non-members. Visit cityofeastlansing.com for more information, or call (517) 337-1113 to register.

FEBRUARY 25

90-Second Newbery Film Viewing Party, Lansing The national 90-second Newbery Contest challenges teens and tweens to tell the story of a famous book in less than two minutes.

Some selected local entries will be shown on the big screen at Celebration Cinema. Prizes will be awarded in a variety of categories.

The showing will take place from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Celebration Cinema, 200 East Edgewood Blvd.

FEBRUARY 26

Gin Class, Lansing American Fifth Spirits presents their first ever Gin Class. Learn about the history of gin, how to make gin and what a fraction is.

Taste botanical fractions, create your own gin blend with 14 different fractions to choose from and receive a 750 ml bottle of your blend to take home. Tickets are $95 per person ($80.75 for Crystal Club Members) and seats are limited. Find more information and reserve your spot today by visiting americanfifthspirits.com.

ARTS FEBRUARY 4

A Brown Bear, A Moon, & A Caterpillar, East Lansing One of North America’s premier touring puppetry companies is coming to Wharton Center.

Audiences of all ages will revel in the stunning music, spectacular backlight visual effects and innovative puppetry of “Nova Scotia’s Mermaid Theatre.”

This mesmerizing puppet show compiles the storybook favorites of Eric Carle. “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” joins the pages of “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” and “Papa, Please Get The Moon For Me,” for a

TRI COUNTY EVENTS heart warming production that the New York Times called “vivid” and “uniquely told.” Tickets and more information about this incredible puppet show can be found at whartoncenter.com.

FEBRUARY 7-8

Paw Patrol Live!, East Lansing PAW Patrol is coming to East Lansing for their first-ever live tour! It’s the day of the Super Adventure Race between Adventure Bay’s Mayor Goodway and Foggy Bottom’s Mayor Humdinger, but Mayor Goodway is nowhere to be found. Luckily, PAW Patrol is to the rescue! Audience members of all ages will share lessons about social skills and problem-solving as the PAW Patrol makes their heroic rescue. Tickets start at $16 and can be purchased at whartoncenter.com.

FEBRUARY 9-12 & 16-19

Heathers The Musical, Lansing Based on the 80’s cult classic film, Heathers The Musical dives into the dark story of Veronica Sawyer, a intelligent, teenage misfit who wedges her way into the most powerful and ruthless clique at Westerberg High: the Heathers.

Tickets and more information can be found at peppermintcreek.org.

FEBRUARY 17-19

The 48th Annual Spartan Stampede, East Lansing The MSU Rodeo Club proudly presents their 48th annual Spartan Stampede Rodeo at the MSU Pavilion for Livestock Teaching and Research. The rodeo will showcase premier, internationally ranked, athletes.

Proceeds from the rodeo will be used by the MSU Rodeo Club to cover travel costs and provide scholarship funds for current and prospective MSU students. For tickets and more information regarding the rodeo, visit whartoncenter.com.

FEBRUARY 21-26

Cabaret, East Lansing As part of their 50th Anniversary Season, NYC’s critically acclaimed Roundabout Theatre Company proudly presents the Tony Award winning production of Cabaret.

Experience theatre history and enjoy memorable songs, including

“Cabaret,” “Willkommen” and “Maybe This Time.” Tickets start at $41 and can be purchased at whartoncenter.com.

CLINICS

Happy Valentine’s Day from all of us at

Another Look Hair Institute

FEBRUARY 3

Sexual Health Changes in Seniors, East Lansing Dr. Anne Huges is offering a free presentation about “Sexual Health Changes in Seniors.” Come and learn about how sexual health changes as you age. Engage in discussion about the importance of sexual health to quality of life as you age. There will also be a discussion about how to talk to your partner and your health care provider about your sexual health.

Join the conversation from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Prime Time Seniors’ Program located at 819 Abbot Road, East Lansing, MI 48823.

FEBRUARY 16

Women’s Health, Charlotte Hayes Green Beach Memorial Hospital is offering a free presentation presented by Kelli Heyink, PT, DPT, and Miranda Moncada-Sullivan, PT, DPT. Learn about popular women’s health topics ranging from incontinence and pelvic pain to muscle dysfunction.

Lunch is included for those who pre-register by Monday, Feb. 8.

This presentation will be held at AL!VE, 800 West Lawrence Ave. in Charlotte from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Those interested can register by calling (517) 541-5800, option 1.

Fall in LOVE with taking care of YOURSELF

Mind. Body. Spirit.

Styling and Coloring Scalp Treatments Laser Therapy Hair Loss Solutions Hair Stimulation and Extensions

FEBRUARY 24

Tips for Good Skin Care, East Lansing Christina Inman, FNP-BC from Doctor’s Approach is presenting “Tips for Good Skin Care.”

For those with little time for an intensive skin care routine, you can still pamper yourself by acing the basics. Good skin care and healthy lifestyle choices can help delay the natural aging process and prevent various skin problems.

This presentation will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Prime Time Seniors’ Program at 819 Abbot Road, East Lansing, MI 48823.

Visit cityofeastlansig.com for more information about this free event.

Located within:

Image Day Spa 1020 East Saginaw Street, Lansing, MI (517) 484-5062 www.anotherlookonline.com CAWLM.COM

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MY COMMUNITY

LANSING BRIDAL WORLD On Sunday, Jan. 10 hundreds of brides and their families filled the Lansing Center to start creating their dream weddings. Lansing Bridal World is mid-Michgan’s largest and longest running bridal event. The event included a fashion show featuring Becker’s Bridal, David’s Bridal, Men’s Wearhouse and Sound Productions.

PHOTOS BY FROM PURE ENCHANTMENT PHOTOGRAPHY Fashion Show

Gigi's Cupcakes

Becker's Bridal wedding gowns

Cake by Whipped Bakery

Dine to Donate C

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JOIN US 4 – 8 P.M. ON FEBRUARY 16 at one of six area Applebee’s

20% of the evening's earnings will go to support Komen Mid-Michigan Visit CAWLM.com for more information

PARTICIPATING LOCATIONS 1642 Packard Hwy, Charlotte

6270 S. Cedar St, Lansing

2450 Coolidge Rd, East Lansing

2284 Woodlake Dr, Okemos

5400 W. Saginaw Hwy, Lansing

2440 Ontario Dr, St. Johns

Here for kids. Here in Lansing.

Because kids have unique medical needs, treating them isn’t the same as treating an adult. That’s why Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital offers award-winning pediatric care—right here in Lansing. Discover our team of Lansing-based specialists who have devoted their careers to the health and well-being of kids, from infants to teenagers.

lansing.helendevoschildrens.org 3960 Patient Care Drive, Suite 113, Lansing, MI 48911

Specialized Pediatric Services Cardiology Dermatology Gastroenterology Nephrology Neurosurgery Orthopedics Plastic and Craniofacial Surgery Pulmonary/Sleep Medicine CAWLM.COM

©Spectrum Health 11.16

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MY COMMUNITY REV. DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. HOLIDAY LUNCHEON The Greater Lansing Area Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission held their 32nd annual Luncheon on Monday, Jan. 16. The purpose of the event is to promote racial harmony, understanding, community service, respect and goodwill among all citizens. This year’s keynote speaker was Myrlie Evers-Williams, a civil rights activist and former chairperson of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

PHOTOS BY ERIKA HODGES

Jackie Wilkerson, LaShawnda Thomas, Mary Embry, Antonea Embry, RoseMary Embry Robinson, Yalanda Embry-Frazier, Kay Porter, Willie Dawson, Essie James & Derrick Quinney

Bonnie Richardson, Rosa Jones, Vanessa Beasley & Shayla Crockett

Tamera Carter, Jamie McPike, Chatum Taylor, Ahjale Lykes & Liberty McPike

Purchase tickets now for the first mom & me tea party and luncheon as we listen to a guest speaker about supporting and empowering women Saturday May 13, 2017 Old Town Marquee Tickets available at CAWLM.com PRESENTED BY: C

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MY COMMUNITY

Elaine Hardy

Virg Bernero, Mayor of Lansing

Gretchen Whitmer, Ingham County Prosecutor

The City Wide Choir

Debbie Stabenow, Michigan United States Senator

Mark McDaniel

Coupon expires 2-28-17

CAWLM.COM

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MY COMMUNITY REDEEMER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH FOOD PANTRY The Redeemer Food Pantry is a year-round outreach that provides food and other items to families referred through local human services organizations. The purpose of the Food Pantry is to support families when unexpected situations happen. Paper products, cleaning supplies, baby and personal care items, and non-perishable food products are collected through community food drives and member donations.

PHOTOS BY ERIKA HODGES

Sue Ashcraft

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FEBRUARY 2017

Redeemer United Methodist Church food pantry

Dawn Pysarchik

Suzie Unruh, Ministry Assistant & Food Pantry Coordinator

Cathy Medrano & Anna Pruitt

Participating Schools

2017

Bath, Charlotte, Dansville, DeWitt, East Lansing, Eaton Rapids, Everett, Fowlerville, Grand Ledge, Haslett, Holt, Lansing Catholic, Lansing Christian, Mason, Okemos, St. Johns, Waverly, Webberville, Williamston

JOIN US January 26 - February 23 MSUFCU Headquarters in East Lansing 3777 West Road, East Lansing, MI

Yiduo Wen

Bailey Yonkman

2016 Judges Pick 1st Place

2016 People's Choice 1st Place

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View the art and vote online

www.msufcuart.com

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PROFESSIONAL GUIDE KELLIE JOHNSON

AMANDA JACKSON

Kellie Johnson is the Retail Store founder & owner of Kellie’s Consignments, inspired by community-driven interaction. 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 most direct roles include operations, marketing, strategy, financing, cultivation of company culture, human resources, hiring, and firing, compliance with safety regulations, sales, & public relations. Kellie was the 2016 recipient of the Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Spirit Award.

Jackson is responsible for the daily operations of the Credit Union’s Farm Lane Branch. Her role involves providing support to branch employees and overseeing its processes and procedures to help provide superior service and improve member experience for anyone who visits the branch.

MSUFCU has an asset size of over $3.3 billion, nearly 230,000 members worldwide, and more than 730 employees in the Greater Lansing and Oakland County areas. The Credit Union has also been recognized for a number of awards for innovative employee solutions and programs.

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

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

JESSICA BERMEJO

LESA SMITH

Jessica Bermejo, who has a bachelor’s degree in Microbiology from Michigan State University and a master’s degree in management from Northwood University, began her 14-year career with Emergent in the Manufacturing department as a technician. In this role, Bermejo contributed to manufacturing BioThrax®, the company’s vaccine to protect against anthrax disease. Over time, Bermejo has earned a team lead position, progressed to supervisor and eventually became manager of the training group. Bermejo said the opportunities to learn and the people she works with are what she enjoys most at Emergent.

Lesa Smith is director of The Foundation at Burcham Hills and provides 26 years of fundraising and development experience, including nine years as director of development for Central Michigan University’s College of Humanities and Social and Behavioral Sciences and four years as program administrator and development coordinator for the State Bar of Michigan.

Smith has a master’s degree in public administration, a bachelor’s degree in human resource management and is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE). She is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Capital Area Chapter board of directors and serves on the Public Relations Committee for the Rotary Club of Lansing.

(517) 327-1500 3500 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Lansing, MI 48906

(517) 827-2924 2700 Burcham Drive East Lansing, MI 48823

SARA CRAMTON, M.D.

MEGAN FLEMING

Dr. Cramton attended the University of Michigan for her undergraduate education. She received a degree in Industrial and Operations Engineering, and spent five years working as an engineer in the automotive and health care industries before deciding to pursue a medical degree. Dr. Cramton attended medical school at Wayne State University and completed her residency in Ob/Gyn at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Mich. Dr. Cramton joined Alliance Obstetrics and Gynecology in 2009 and especially enjoys providing adolescents with health care and caring for women through all stages of their lives. She is currently accepting new 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

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Megan Fleming is an Account Executive at M3 Group representing Capital Area Women’s Lifestyle Magazine, Greater Lansing Business Monthly and Ing Magazine. She graduated with a B.A. in advertising from Michigan State University in 2011. With more than five years of experience working as an account executive across different fields, working with clients is what she enjoys the most. While out and about, you might see Fleming at a variety of networking events including Coffee & Connections, Chamber events and other luncheons.

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(517) 203-3333 614 Seymour Ave. Lansing, MI 48933

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Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine

@CAWLM

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Khanh Q. Nguyen, DO Corporate Medical Officer

Khanh Q. Nguyen, DO Corporate Medical Officer

Khanh Q. Nguyen, DO Khanh Q. Nguyen, Corporate Medical DO Officer Corporate Medical Officer

Joseph Marogil, MD and Laura Kelsey, MD

on ti a c o L g in s n a L r u O it is V , Suite 201,

Joseph Marogil, MD and Marogil, MD Joseph Joseph Marogil, MD Laura Kelsey, andMD

and 5123 West St. Joseph Laura Kelsey, MD Laura Kelsey, MD Lansing, MI 48917

Zayed Meadows Director of Vascular Technicians Zayed Meadows DirectorZayed of Meadows Zayed Meadows Director of VascularDirector Technicians of

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This team This team This team We make this makes this problem go away makes this problem go away. makes this problem go away. problem go away.

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Dr. Laura Kelsey, Regional Medical Director of Michigan

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Center for Vein Restoration is nationally recognized as the leader in the

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Our physicians and clinical Center for Vein Restoration is nationally recognized as the leader in teams the are dedicated to relieving leg pain, treating the vascular cause of severe leg treatment of vein disease and varicose veins.

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3810 W. Centre Avenue, Suite A Portage, MI 49024 Connecticut, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington DC

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

(800) FIX-LEGS / (800) 349-5347 / www.centerforvein.com (800) FIX-LEGS / (800) 349-5347 / www.centerforvein.com

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

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Conveniently located in Grand Rapids and Portage

Conveniently located in Conveniently Grand Rapids, Lansing, Muskegon, and Wyoming. located in Grand RapidsPortage and Portage

We’re Invested in Our Community MSUFCU members know they can rely on MSU Federal Credit Union to save them money. In 2016, members saved nearly $12,000,000 in interest by refinancing their high-rate loans from other financial institutions to MSUFCU. Join your friends and neighbors at MSUFCU and see how much you can save.

Not an MSU employee? Not a problem! There are many ways to join.

Federally insured by NCUA

msufcu.org • 517-333-2424