CAWLM April 2020

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CHEERS! TO LAYERED FRUIT SPRITZER EVERYTHING IS COMING UP ROSES A Q & A WITH KATHY VALENTINE OF THE PLANT PROFESSIONALS

HOME & GARDE Guide I N nside!

Home and Garden

“SEA” INSIDE CHERYL UNDERWOOD’S BEAUTIFUL HOME

APRIL 2020

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1999 E. SAGINAW HWY. | EAST LANSING, MI 48823 | 517.339.6300 2 APRIL 2020

THEMERIDIANADVANTAGE.NET

221 W Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933 Phone: (517) 203-3333 | Email: info@cawlm.com CAWLM.COM

ISSUE IV • VOLUME XIII

PUBLISHER TIFFANY DOWLING MANAGING EDITOR MARY GAJDA MEDIA MANAGER JENNIFER HODGES MEDIA SPECIALIST CAREY JARVIS ACCOUNT MANAGERS MELISSA DEMOTT LIZ RENO-HAYES JENNIFER HODGES MEGAN FLEMING COMMUNICATION SPECIALISTS ADAM LANSDELL AMANDA FISCHER CHRISTOPHER NAGY ART DIRECTOR MARK WARNER PUBLICATION DESIGNER LAUREN BRUMBACH GRAPHIC DESIGNERS CHELSEY FREEDMAN CODY FELL LAUREN BRUMBACH MATTHEW MCDANIEL

Cheryl L. Underwood,

Executive Director – Investments Taking care of you, your family, or your business is my number one priority. For over 20 years I have been simplifying the complex world of retirement plans and wealth management for clients like you, earning the #1 Financial Advisor position for nearly a decade at a Forbes, “Top 100 Wealth Management Firm” with over $400 million assets under administration.

for “yourCaring future the way I care for my gardens

Financial Services Consultation and Plan

CONTRIBUTORS

(517) 333-7775 • cheryl.underwood@opco.com fa.opco.com/cheryl.underwood

MELIK BROWN RENEE FRANKLIN SHAHAD ALZAIDAN TEECE ARONIN WHITLEY SEMROW

ADVERTISING INFORMATION (517) 203-3333 Interested in hosting a distribution location?

Give us a call at (517) 203-3333 or email at info@cawlm.com.

”

Please call to receive a complimentary

WEB MANAGER KYLE DOWLING

CATHY BLATNIK DEIDRE DAVIS KERRY HART KYLE DOWLING LISA ALLEN-KOST

group

Let me create a personalized wealth plan or guide you in updating your current plan, structured around your unique life.

Highly respected, leading global full service brokerage and investment bank with a 135 year history and $80 billion client assets under administration.

Cheryl holds the following industry registrations/licenses: Series 7 Series 63 Series 65 Series 50

Registered General Securities Representative Registered State Securities Agent Registered Investment Advisor Representative Registered Municipal Advisor Representative

Michigan Licensed Insurance Producer: Life, Health, Accident, Property & Casualty

Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle is published monthly

by M3 Group, Lansing, Michigan All rights reserved. © 2020 M3 Group

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

Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. | 1400 Abbot Road, Suite 430 | East Lansing, MI 48823 Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. Transacts Business on All Principal Exchanges and Member SIPC 2915539.1 APRIL 2020

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COVER

APRIL

12

Cheryl Underwood: Sea Change

23

Local Lady

28

Recipe

IN THIS ISSUE 5

From the Publisher

6

Good News

7

Queen of the Road

8

Growing Tomatoes

9

Financial Facts

10

History of Umbrellas

30

Harbingers of Spring

11

Raising Eco-Concious Kids

31

Renovate for a Healthier Home

16

Fashion

32

My Community

17

Lansing Made

HOME & GARDEN GUIDE

24

DIY Hand Sanitizer

19

DIY Projects to Conserve Energy in Your Home

25

How You Can Help In Unprecedented Times

20

Create a Fairy Garden for Spring

26

Biz Coach

21

Great Activities to Embrace this Spring

Potential Effects of Ozone Pollution on Your Health

22

27

Time-Saving Kitchen Shortcuts

29

Foods That Promote Healthy Hair and Skin

HOME AND GARDEN 4 APRIL 2020

On the cover: Cheryl Underwood | Cover photography by Mary Gajda

FROM THE PUBLISHER

BY TIFFANY DOWLING

HERE’S TO SPRING, COMMUNITY AND HOPE IN A TIME OF CRISIS

As spring draws its new breath and the season begins to show its signs of bloom and rebirth, this edition of Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine is dedicated to all things home and garden.

safe by checking to see what elderly family members, friends and neighbors need and doing our best to help them when possible.

It’s been heartwarming to We can get through this by staying With the cancellation watch the social informed, following protocols and or postponement of so response to this many events in the region crisis on Facebook. keeping our community in mind. due to COVID-19, you’ll I’ve seen offers be spending more time to take care of in your home. Take this children due to the time to de-stress and do a little dreaming closing of schools, the sharing of essential about the changes you would make if you supplies and more. We can learn a lot could. Read the inspiring story of our cover from this. A friend group of mine gathered woman, Cheryl Underwood, on how she together to get Meijer gift cards for families rebuilt after a house fire to bring the home and students who may have trouble finding of her dreams to life. the necessary resources while school is out.

They raised over $800 in a very short time.

As for the coronavirus, it’s important at this This is just one of many situations where time that we remember to treat each other wonderful people are doing what they can to well. While we certainly should not panic, help others. Be kind always. it is vital that we take into consideration Finally, keep small businesses, event recommendations from the CDC to keep organizers, hospitality enterprises, healthcare ourselves and others healthy. Also crucial workers and others in your hearts. With is keeping our high-risk, elderly population

events canceled, businesses feeling the effects of lost business and lost income for others; times are most certainly tough. There are still ways to support your local businesses and finding them is critical to keep our local economy going.

Here’s to spring being a time of hope in our region.

We can get through this by staying informed, following protocols and keeping our community in mind. ■

In good health,

Tiffany Dowling

Publisher

APRIL 2020

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GOOD NEWS 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 in which you wish it to be printed. CAWLM reserves the right to edit all submissions for style, grammar and length. We look forward to sharing your good news!

FOSTER SWIFT ELECTS SEURYNCK AS FIRM PRESIDENT Foster Swift Collins & Smith PC announced the election of Anne M. Seurynck as president.

Seurynck will chair the firm’s executive committee, which leads the 100-attorney firm.

“We have a lot invested in making sure this is a great place to work and for clients to do business,” Seurynck said. “We will continue to implement new ideas and new technologies to meet the needs of our clients and our employees.” ■

Seurynck is the first woman elected as president in Foster Swift’s 118-year history. Seurynck also is among the first female executives ever elected to lead one of Michigan’s largest law firms.

As president, Seurynck will not only continue to serve her clients, she will continue to serve Foster Swift by offering the same support she has been given by the firm over the course of her career. She is particularly focused on continuing to grow the firm’s associate attorneys into future leaders.

Anne M. Seurynck

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QUEEN OF THE ROAD

BY LISA ALLEN-KOST

Now isGood When is the best time to travel in Michigan? Some say the answer is June, July and August. Others claim the fall, rich with all of its red, golds and greens. And

a Tootsie Pop”? Travel, when you are a child, is someone else’s idea of fun. If you could go anywhere as a child, you wouldn’t pick the Grand Canyon, would you? Sure, those crevices are pretty darn cool, but after you take the obligatory “falling off the canyon” family photo, the rest is just miles and miles of endless holes in the dirt.

I am not sure when I started thinking this way.

When I was a little girl, our road trips seemed to go on forever. How many times can you sing “99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall” or find out “How many licks does it take to get to the center of

If my parents had let me, I would have skipped the canyon for the tourist store nearby, where I was given free reign to buy anything I wanted, including all the kitschy snowglobes, plastic donkeys and tomahawks I could carry. Fortunately for my sister, I never got the rubber tomahawks I wanted.

there are a few who believe winter is completely underrated in Michigan – just ask a skier or a snowmobiler. I, for one, answer it this way: now.

Now is the best time to do anything – always.

When you are traveling as a child, parents tell you certain things are unnecessary, like stopping to go to the bathroom, for example. “Pretend you are a camel” is one of my all-time favorites.

Or how about “Don’t think about it”? I could never figure out how a camel never thought about the bathroom, especially since they lived in the sand. Seems like going to the bathroom all over the sand would be the best thing for a camel.

My point is: Parents always think there will be more time. They are sure the tomahawks

with the red feather will be in the next shop, and the really good family picture is right around the bend. Children also believe these vacation lies. They are certain their mom and dad telepathically know that a bathroom will appear in the next 2 miles, and there is always more for them down the road – more candy, more fun – but there isn’t. Vacation ends, school starts and everything changes except time.

As you plan your summer vacation this year, ask your kids in advance what would mean the most to them. If they answer “Wally World,” well, I am truly sorry. If they answer “candy,” please ignore them. But if play your cards right, and your children are standing in the middle of your well-planned vacation longing for a $3 rubber tomahawk, after holding their little legs together for 20 miles, reach way down into your purse past your cellphone, and buy your little camel a tomahawk – now. ■

Lisa Allen-Kost grew up as an “Army Brat,” has lived abroad and is always eager to book her next trip — no matter the destination. When she is not traveling, Allen-Kost calls Okemos home, where she lives with her husband, Jim, and their children.

Call me today at 517.253.8563 With 19 years of experience serving successful women and their families in the Lansing area, Stephanie uses her comprehensive approach to financial planning to provide advice for women who want to be empowered and informed as they make complex decisions about their future.

for a complimentary initial consultation.

As the only Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA™) in Lansing*, she believes that freedom and independence are core values of successful women, regardless of marital status.

Refresh your winter skin with a saltfacial!

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

Stephanie Milosavlevski

CFP®, CDFATM Financial Advisor 2139 Commons Parkway Okemos, MI 48864 • 517.253.8563 stephanie.j.milosavlevski@ampf.com ameripriseadvisors.com/stephanie.j.milosavlevski *Source: Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts (IDFATM). The initial consultation provides an overview of financial planning concepts. You will not receive written analysis and/or recommendations. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2019 Ameriprise Financial, Inc., All rights reserved. 2681174ACMR0819 APRIL 2020

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GARDENING

BY RICK VUYST

GROWING TOMATOES:

A Beginner’s Guide

Vegans have made vegetables voguish.

HEROIC. Define yourself in public service.

Enroll today.

What kind of food do you want to be associated with? This is an important question, because we take our food and eating choices personally. Healthy soil, sunshine and irrigation practices are the primary keys to food-gardening nirvana.

Positivity, self-care and mindfulness are aided by being surrounded by nature and eating a plant-based diet. Gardening is the ancient prescription for wellness.

them up. Place them in a spot that allows for sunlight and air movement around the plants. A determinate tomato sets terminal buds, so they stay at a more manageable size, making them perfect for container growing.

A semi-determinate tomato is between the two in size. These tomatoes need support but can be grown in large containers or in the ground. With any container garden, remember to make sure that plenty of room is available in the pot for root growth and stability. They’re going to grow!

Plant foods can be polarizing: From Brussels To grow great tomatoes, make sure you have a good sunny spot and have prepared sprouts to beets, celery to cilantro, olives the soil with lots to mushrooms of organic matter. and kale to lima Tomatoes like a moist, beans, everyone If you haven’t grown well-drained soil. If the seems to have vegetables before, try some soil gets dry between an opinion. tomatoes, the gateway plant watering, you are While some likely to have cracking to vegetable gardening. want bacon and and zippering of the maple syrup fruit. They also like with their Brussels sprouts, others would a boost of calcium to avoid blossom–end rather just pass altogether. Are lima beans rot on the fruit, so look for a fertilizer that a rich and buttery delicacy, or do they taste more like wallpaper paste? Some will defend has micronutrients including calcium. lima beans voraciously and attempt to make converts of others.

The key is to find foods you love and grow them. You need sunshine, good soil, nutrients and love.

Tomatoes

Remember to look at the tag of the tomato plant you are buying. The tag will tell you if the plant is indeterminate, determinate or semi-determinate. An indeterminate tomato will grow large and not set a terminal bud, meaning that if it doesn’t freeze come October, it will keep growing to the size of a large shrub! These are best planted in the ground with good plant supports to hold

Lansing Community College is an equal opportunity educational institution/employer.

8 APRIL 2020

Another way to ensure good moisture availability is to plant them deep in the soil.

You will see the main stem above the soil line on the young plants is “hairy” in nature.

Roots will grow from that stem if planted deeper. Pluck off a few bottom leaves and place the tomato plant deeper than the existing soil surface in the pot. This will increase the depth of the roots searching for moisture and nutrients. ■ Rick Vuyst is CEO of Flowerland, host of the Flowerland Show on NewsRadio WOOD 1300 and 106.9 FM as well as Mr. Green Thumb on WZZM–TV 13.

FINANCIAL FACTS

BY DEIDRE DAVIS

HOW TO HELP CHILDREN BECOME FINANCIALLY SAVVY Teaching children about money early in life can help them learn healthy financial habits that will last a lifetime. Research shows

that children benefit from learning about how money works – and the more knowledge they have, the better financial decisions they will make, whether it’s budgeting to buy a toy they want or saving for college.

Start the Conversation There are many ways to share money management strategies with children. Teaching them about sharing, spending and saving is a good place to start, and it creates habits to help them manage their finances as adults.

One way to get started is to set up three jars labeled “sharing,’’ “spending’’ and “saving.’’

When children receive money for birthdays or chores, have them divide the money equally among the jars. Sharing money should be donated to a charitable organization, spending money can be used to purchase items of their choice and saving money can be deposited into savings accounts to earn dividends. You may consider matching their savings as an extra incentive.

National Credit Union Youth Month One of the ways Michigan State University

Federal Credit Union promotes learning money management skills is by celebrating National Credit Union Youth Month each April. This year’s theme of “Money Magic! Share, Spend and Save at Your Credit Union” encourages children to develop healthy financial habits by making sharing, spending and saving fun, as well as exciting.

This year, MSUFCU will sponsor contests to encourage youth members to save. Also, each youth member who visits any credit union branch in April will receive a free gift.

Youth Savings Accounts Many financial institutions offer accounts for children to help them begin saving. MSUFCU offers youth accounts that provide the tools and resources to start the savings process and make learning financial basics fun and interactive.

There are five youth account levels offered at MSUFCU: • • • • •

Sweet Pea (0-2 years) Dollar Dog (3-6 years) Cyber Saver (7-10 years) Money Club (11-13 years) CU Succeed (14-17 years)

After opening an account, each youth account member: • Receives a free gift • Can participate in contests designed to make learning about money fun • Enjoys access to free gaming apps New youth account members receive one virtual coin for every $10 deposited into their accounts, encouraging them to save. These coins can be redeemed for items in the Youth Store available in ComputerLine, MSUFCU’s online account management system.

Money management strategies for sharing, spending and saving are all important life lessons you can teach children in your life about today. ■

Deidre Davis is the chief marketing officer at Michigan State University Federal Credit Union.

MSUFCU’s headquarters are at 3777 West Road, in East Lansing. Contact Davis at deidre.davis@msufcu.org or (517) 664-7877.

"Butter Makes it Better"

For this year’s community reads project, we’re encouraging people to read There There, an award-winning debut novel by Cheyenne and Arapaho author Tommy Orange.

WOODLAND SKY Native American Dance Troop

MEET THE AUTHOR Tommy Orange

HOLT JR. HIGH SCHOOL 1784 N. Aurelius Road, Holt Saturday, April 18 • 11 a.m.

CHIPPEWA MIDDLE SCHOOL 4000 Okemos Road, Okemos Wednesday, April 22 • 7 p.m.

WILLIAMSTON MIDDLE SCHOOL 3845 Vanneter Road, Williamston Saturday, April 18 • 3 p.m.

RSVP at cadl.org/events or 517-367-6355 For more information, visit cadl.org/CAR

3003 E. Kalamazoo St. Lansing, MI 48912 (517) 337-CAKE

www.bakencakes.com | Find us on Facebook APRIL 2020

9

THE HISTORY OF UMBRELLAS

COURTESY OF MCC

Technology evolves with breakneck speed, and it is not too often that one can say he or she relies on something that has gone largely unchanged for centuries. But each time you reach for an umbrella, you’re relying on an invention that’s more than 4,000 years old.

Evidence suggests umbrellas originated in ancient Egypt and nearby Assyria. The earliest umbrellas or parasols were used to provide protection from the sun. These earliest umbrellas were made from palm leaves attached to sticks. According to UmbrellaHistory.net, umbrellas signified rank, and nobles used the devices to keep their skin pale and untouched by the sun. In Assyria, only kings had the right to be protected by elaborate parasols.

Anyone who has been kept dry during a downpour because of umbrellas can thank the Chinese. The modern-day rain umbrella is a variation of waterproof parasols created in the 11th century B.C. The earliest waterproof umbrellas were made of silk or paper that was waxed and lacquered for protection. Again, umbrellas signified a person of esteem, and the more elaborate the umbrella, the more important the person being protected by the device.

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It wasn’t until the 16th century that the umbrella became popularized in the western world, according to the history and invention site ThoughtCo. The word “umbrella” comes from the Latin root “umbra,” meaning “shade.” However, in the rainy climates of northern Europe, the waterproof umbrellas would be an asset for men and women hoping to stay dry.

Persian traveler and writer Jonas Hanway popularized umbrellas through his own personal use, and men even called their umbrellas a “Hanway.”

The British helped define the modern umbrella and even opened up the first shop devoted entirely to umbrellas. James Smith and Sons opened in 1830 in London, producing umbrellas made from wood or whalebone covered with alpaca or oiled canvas.

Curved handles were made by hand and were genuine works of art.

Steel-ribbed umbrellas would come several years later. Collapsible umbrellas would not appear for roughly 100 years, when Hans Haupt’s pocket umbrella and Bradford Phillips’ modern folding mechanism in umbrellas were introduced.

Modern umbrellas continue to be perfected, with certain types folding outward rather than inward to keep errant drops at bay; umbrellas that cannot be flipped inside out; those that can withstand very strong winds; and umbrellas that open and shut easily with the push of a button. China still reigns supreme in regard to the production of umbrellas, just as it did all those centuries ago. ■

RAISING ECO-CONSCIOUS KIDS COURTESY OF MCC

Children often aspire to emulate their parents. Young boys who see their

fathers shaving might reach for dad’s shaving cream, and young girls may find their way into their mother’s closets in an effort to dress just like mom.

Kids’ curiosity may be similarly piqued when they see their parents going green. Parents who reduce, reuse and recycle are setting positive examples for their young ones, who may inquire about the ways they can follow suit.

While going green isn’t typically categorized as a kid-friendly activity, there are a number of ways parents can involve their children in the pursuit of an eco-friendly lifestyle.

Donate Old Items Children outgrow their clothing and toys pretty quickly. Rather than discarding items that are no longer worn or played with, box them up and take your kids along to a local donation center or thrift store to show them how their clothing and toys can be reused. Use this as an opportunity to teach them how donating or recycling old items can drastically reduce the need to use natural resources to create new ones.

Skip the Driving Instead of piling in the car each morning to get to school, consider biking (or walking if the commute isn’t far). If you have ample time in the mornings to escort your kids to school, bike alongside them and inform them of how biking, in lieu of driving, helps to conserve fuel, which in turn benefits the planet. If biking is not an option due to weather conditions or distance, try to organize carpools; traveling in a group rather than individually helps to cut back on fuel, too!

Parents who reduce, reuse and recycle are setting positive examples for their young ones, who may inquire about the ways they can follow suit.

Reusable Hydration Drinking enough water each day is essential, but instead of reaching for plastic water bottles, allow your kids to pick out a fun reusable bottle.

Though plastic water bottles are more convenient, they generate an enormous amount of waste that ultimately ends up in landfills. In addition, the transportation of plastic water bottles

from factories to store shelves burns through a significant amount of fossil fuel. Explain to your kids that they are doing their part to protect the planet by refilling instead of tossing.

Visit the Library Encourage your kids to borrow books from the library rather than purchasing a brand new copy at the bookstore. Teach them that borrowing books cuts down on the need for more paper, which helps preserve our forests and reduces waste.

Appreciate the Outdoors Urge your kids to spend more time outside and less time inside watching television or playing games. Explore with them as they engage in activities such as camping, hiking or fishing.

These excursions in the great outdoors instill a love and appreciation for nature, which compels young kids to a lifetime of protecting the planet and conserving its natural resources. ■

APRIL 2020

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12 APRIL 2020

Good Girl Radio and Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine have partnered to feature our cover person throughout 2020 in an on-camera interview with Good Girl Radio! Tune in the second Thursday of every month to hear more from these amazing people.

Photo by Mary Gajda

COVER STORY

SEA CHANGE UNDERWOOD CELEBRATES LIFE, LOVE IN HER HOME AND GARDEN

BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY

It can be said that Cheryl Underwood is living her true and best self.

From the numerous mermaid statues, glasstop tables with golden seahorse legs and beach décor, Underwood’s Haslett home reflects her whimsical, outsized and freespirited personality; and the ever-evolving and elaborately expanding garden out back is a testament to her bold vision and outlook.

However, for the financial adviser for Oppenheimer & Co. in East Lansing to arrive where she is now could be considered somewhat of a baptism by fire.

An early morning fire during Christmas week just over a decade ago took away everything Underwood and her family had.

“It was 4 a.m., Dec. 20, 2009,” she said. “It was something electrical in the basement. We lost it all for the most part. We literally got out with just our pajamas.”

The family temporarily moved into a hotel before making a condo their home for the next year while the home was rebuilt; however, in the immediate days after the blaze, they found out how far a little kindness and support can stretch in a small community.

“I had the Christmas tree up before the painters had even finished. That’s how excited I was to move back in,” she said.

If I can’t be in the tropics, I just figured I’d bring the tropics here.

With its open and light-filled spaces framed by pillars, columns and arches, Underwood’s home features a wide-ranging and eclectic mix of sea- and sand-related items and artifacts she has picked up on her travels – with a heavy dose of the magical majesty of mermaids thrown in for good measure.

“If I had a chance, I’d be living on the water and I’d be living in Florida. But I can’t do that because I work here,” she said. “If I can’t be in the tropics, I just figured I’d bring the tropics here.”

That tropical feel isn’t just contained indoors.

A poolside tiki hut Underwood built with her children stands among lighted palm trees outside; and in the warmer months, Underwood’s yard transitions into a peaceful

garden oasis with thousands – if not tens of thousands – of bright splashes from the bulbs and blooms meticulously arranged in an always-evolving design.

The garden just something that sparked in Underwood when the family moved back into the new home.

“Gardening is something I’ve never done,” she said. “This is something that started for me as an adult after the fire. It’s something I’m always tweaking and moving and adding onto.

I can visualize what I want something to be, and I just do it.”

From the retaining walls that provide upward-moving planting space and the wooden pergolas weighted with wisteria to the waterfalls, brick-laden paths and rocklined dry riverbed, Underwood’s garden is a passionate pursuit more than a hobby. It’s a project that she starts work on each spring and that doesn’t stop until the end of the season forces her hand.

The home and garden serve as unique backdrops to annual and ornamented parties Underwood hosts each year in the summer and at Christmas. The themed, women-only

“I graduated from Haslett High School and my children attend Haslett schools,” Underwood said. “The entire community really rallied around us. People brought food and clothing. … It was just awesome. The Haslett community is just awesome. I can’t say enough about that.”

The tragedy and the response had a significant and transformative impact on Underwood: “You know how people say you have a paradigm shift after a life-changing event? I really began to stop and smell the roses and really appreciate things and the people in my life. I feel very blessed.”

It was during this time of transition that Underwood came across what would become an overarching theme in her life. On business in Florida, she stopped into a small shop and was drawn to a print of two mermaids by artist Christina Wyatt.

“I love it. There was something magical about it,” she said of the piece that now hangs in her home. “It gave me a spiritual feeling of peace and beauty and love.”

That mermaid theme and those feelings the creature of folklore stirred were things Underwood transplanted into the design and décor of her new home, which she moved into exactly one year to the day after the fire.

Underwood’s garden oasis.

APRIL 2020

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COVER STORY

BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY

events can feature up to 70 guests and are meant to provide a platform for camaraderie, encouragement and support, Underwood said.

“I ask my friends to come and ask them to bring their friends and those friends can bring their friends. It’s kind of corny, but

it’s like a celebration of women,” she said.

“I feel blessed to help create memories and bring joy to people. I don’t do it for any other reason than purely to have fun.”

“I sincerely have God in my heart, and I think that exudes from the inside out. I like to inspire other people. I’m a caretaker, a nurturer,” she said.

Her approach to her parties is a reflection of how Underwood approaches life in general.

That also extends to her career as a financial adviser. She views her work as a way of helping people, protecting her clients, so they can live a good life and be emotionally, as well as financially, content. It’s a philosophy of uniting the mind, body and spirit in a holistic approach to happiness, she said.

“That’s what I strive for in myself and that’s what I strive to reflect for my friends and my clients,” Underwood said.

Whether it’s her home, her garden or her personality, Underwood’s guiding principle is to take on a larger-than-life perspective.

“I’m not afraid. That’s the one thing about me,” Underwood said. “I’m not afraid to do something artsy and radical.

“If it’s something worth doing, it’s something worth overdoing,” she added with a laugh. ■

Christopher Nagy is a graduate of Eastern Michigan University and has more than 20 years of experience in journalism. He rarely misses a Motor City Comic Con or Michigan Renaissance Festival.

The master bedroom stands out with plenty of natural light and a beachy vibe.

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Underwood is well known for the gardens she has cultivated behind her home.

Underwood’s living room boasts sea horses and plenty of textures.

2020 15 The master bathroom APRIL in Underwood’s home.

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KELLIE’S ON THE ROAD TO STAY ABREAST OF UPCOMING ESTATE SALES,

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FASHION

When the rains of April hit the area, let Kellie’s Consignments shower you with bursts of color for spring. From rain gear to jewelry and accessories, expect the unexpected at Kellie’s!

LANSING MADE

BY MELIK BROWN

The Recovering Perfectionist Rishan Butler is an iceberg. I mean that in the nicest way. You see her, but do you really know her?

Butler gives her mother much kudos for how her life is.

After several conversations and a nearly two-hour interview, I feel like I barely peeled back the layers of her story.

“I am the daughter who hit the lottery the with her parents – 23 plus 23,” Butler said. “I have tried to live the way life should be lived on earth. The trait I have from my mother is compassion for other people and respect for differences. My mother is very compassionate. I never heard her say a cruel word about anybody.”

She will tell you that she is a recovering perfectionist.

I would say she’s not doing very well on that recovery, and it is very endearing.

Going to school in Cleveland, Ohio, she didn’t like the way black children were treated. This was at the beginning of desegregation, and she felt that the schools could be integrated, but it was impossible to influence how teachers were going to treat students.

Although she was treated well, she saw others that weren’t and felt that was unfair. Butler’s mother always wanted a girl. Because of that, her mother “dressed her to the T.” Butler attributes that as part of the reason that she wasn’t treated poorly by teachers at her school, along with being a naturally gifted athlete. She would reach out and embrace those who were treated differently. She would invite them to her house and stand up for them.

Photo by: Melik Brown

When she graduated high school, she sought a job at Howard University in Washington, D.C. She worked as a transfer clerk and in alumni affairs. Her mother became a caterer specializing in Italian cuisine while they lived in a Jewish neighborhood. Butler laughingly exclaimed to be a non-pork-eating lazy vegetarian. She said that means that she has low blood pressure. When her blood pressure is down, that chicken looks pretty good. However, she doesn’t like looking at the veins, she said with a laugh.

Butler was Deputy Director of Health & Community Services under Virg Bernero until 2013. She also taught health & human services at Lansing Community College. Butler went into semi-retirement in 2013 to care for her ailing mother. Daily meal time visits continued for 3 years and 8 months. Now she is fully retired often giving back by assisting family members face death with dignity. She happily accepts the role of gatekeeper because her family gave so much to her.

“It’s the circle of life”, she says with a smile.

Her best advice?

“Align yourself with someone you want to be like,” Butler said. “Understand the social stratification chart and make a decision of where you want to live on that chart. Do what’s necessary that will guide you in that direction.” ■ Melik Brown is a Lansing resident most known for #LansingMade, with a mission to highlight the positive, initiate enlightening conversation and bring people together. Brown has a family of five plus one dog. He enjoys spending time with good people

Real people, Real solutions, Right here.

517.853.2700

APRIL 2020

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18 APRIL 2020

HOME &GARDEN

DIY PROJECTS

TO CONSERVE ENERGY IN YOUR HOME they can save after completing the project. But the scale of a project may have little to do with how much homeowners will save.

Home renovation projects can pay numerous dividends. Renovations can have a positive effect on resale value, make homes more livable for residents and, in some ways, make homes more affordable.

Renovation projects that aim to conserve energy can save homeowners substantial amounts of money.

Such projects don’t often require considerable effort or even sizable financial investments, which can make homeowners skeptical as to just how much

For example, the U.S. Department of Energy notes that a relatively effortless task like turning back a thermostat between 7 and 10 degrees for eight hours per day can save homeowners as much as $83 per year. A more labor-intensive task like planting shade trees saves homeowners an average of between $35 and $119 per year.

COURTESY OF MCC

When looking for ways to conserve energy around the house and save money, homeowners need not necessarily commit to expensive projects. The DOE notes that the following are some energysaving projects and details of what homeowners can expect to save after completing them. While each individual project may not result in jaw-dropping savings, homeowners who follow many of these recommendations may end up saving more than $1,000 per year.■

Even the smallest DIY projects can produce big savings. More information about energysaving home improvement projects can be found at energy.gov.

INSTALL EXTERIOR LOW-E STORM WINDOWS.

What is it? Low-e windows reflect infrared heat back into a home. Such windows are coated with an ultra-thin layer of metal that improves the window’s insulation ability.

How much can I save? Homeowners who install low-e windows can save between 12% and 33% on their annual heating and cooling costs.

SEAL UNCONTROLLED AIR LEAKS.

What is it? Air leaks let cool air in during winter and warm air in during summer. Caulking, sealing and weather stripping all cracks and large openings can cut back on air leaks that are costing you money.

The DOE recommends hiring a contractor to seal any leaks on heating and cooling ducts.

How much can I save? Homeowners who seal uncontrolled air leaks can save between 10% and 20% on their annual heating and cooling bills.

PLANT SHADE TREES.

What is it? If you plant a deciduous tree between 6-8 feet tall near your home, it will begin to shade your windows within a year of being planted. Depending on the species of the tree and the home, the shade tree will begin shading the roof within five to 10 years. The DOE notes that shading is the most cost-effective way to reduce airconditioning costs.

How much can I save? Properly planted shade trees can reduce air-conditioning costs by anywhere from 15% to 50%.

INSULATE THE WATER HEATER TANK.

What is it? New water tanks are likely already insulated. But homeowners with older hot-water tanks can insulate their tanks with a water heater insulating blanket kit.

How much can I save? Insulating a water heater tank can save homeowners as much as 16% on their annual water heating bills.

APRIL 2020

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HOME &GARDEN

CREATE A FairyGarden FOR SPRING

COURTESY OF MCC

Spring is a season of rebirth marked by flowers pushing through the soil and tender green leaf buds appearing on trees.

As adults begin tinkering in their gardens and clearing away the vestiges of another winter, children also can get into the spring gardening spirit — with a touch of whimsy mixed in. A fairy garden is the perfect project.

Fairies are mythical beings of romance and folklore that appear in ancient stories passed down by various cultures. Diminutive in size, fairies are often depicted as spiritual or supernatural beings in possession of magical powers who live in close proximity to mortals.

Fairies tap into the imaginations of children, who may be enticed by fairies’ mischievous and/or magical attributes. A desire to capture fairies can inspire a great spring crafting project.

Fairy gardens can be constructed in just about any container and make an enchanting addition to a home landscape, patio or child’s bedroom. It’s easy to get started today.

Begin by collecting the materials needed. Materials will vary depending on each individual project,

20 APRIL 2020

but some good suggestions include: • A container, such as a flowerpot, basket, wine barrel or another vessel that will hold soil • Potting soil • Stones, pebbles and glass baubles • Pea gravel • Small plants, such as clover, moss and succulents • Twigs • Miniature garden accessories and figures Fill the container with the soil. Then arrange the plants as desired while still in their individual potting containers to get an idea of the layout. When the design is established, use a spoon or small trowel to plant the greenery.

Now is the time when the whimsy can set in. The child can create a fairy home, a garden, walkways and much more with

natural materials. Many craft stores even sell ceramic and plastic fairy furnishings. Gravel and stones can add color and extra appeal. Some peat moss or trailing Spanish moss can serve as the finishing touches. Once completed, it’s time to wait to see if the fairies will come for a visit. ■

HOME &GARDEN

GREAT ACTIVITIES TO EMBRACE THIS SPRING Spring arrives in the Northern Hemisphere on March 19, bringing with it visions of more hours of sunshine, warmer temperatures and ample opportunities to embrace the great outdoors.

Come spring, various sports typically fill your time.

Because of the closing of schools due to COVID-19, you may have to begin your own at home sports league. Keep the family active by setting up any number of outdoor games that they can safely play.

When the threat of the new coronavirus passes, encourage them to join the family team for a game of basketball, baseball or a group run.

When your favorite places to visit begin to open again, be sure to show your support for these small business when possible. Here are things you can plan for: Visit an Orchard Spring is a season when many berries, such as strawberries, blackberries and blueberries, begin to ripen. Find your local pick-your-own establishment to spend a day having fun (and getting a little messy) grabbing sweet berries for salads, jams and pies.

Hit the Links It’s time to dust off the clubs and play the greens at any of the thousands of golf courses in North America.

The National Golf Federation says the United States is home to around 15,000 courses. The warmer

temperatures are ideal for practicing your short game on the putting green or for playing all 18 holes.

Get the Patio Ready for Entertaining Clean off patio furniture or start shopping for new items if you didn’t partake in end-of-season sales. This is just the start of the outdoor entertaining season, and it pays to refresh the deck or patio and invest in some quality furniture to keep guests comfortable.

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Visit a Farm Many farm animals give birth in the spring. Children may be excited to see piglets, foals, kids, and all the other adorable young animals draw their first breaths.

Spring’s arrival presents the perfect opportunity to reacquaint oneself with the great outdoors. ■

Prepare Gardening Equipment Before long, the grass will need mowing and the shrubbery will have to be pruned. Ensure that lawn and garden tools and equipment are in top form before they are called into action. Stock up on fuel for gas mowers and sharpen those pruning shears.

Visit a Local Garden Enjoy the sights at a garden when the first spring blooms start to peek out of the soil. Spring is known for tulips, daffodils, crocuses and snowdrops.

Give Your Bike a Tune-Up Take your bike out of storage and give it a onceover. Now is the time to put air in the tires, grease the chain, and make sure that the brakes and other equipment are working properly. Most bike helmet manufacturers recommend replacing helmets every three years, even if you haven’t been in a crash. That’s because the polystyrene foam can degrade over time from environmental exposure.

APRIL 2020

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HOME &GARDEN

Kitchen Shortcuts

TIME-SAVING THAT DON’T SACRIFICE QUALITY If coordinating schedules to gather the family around the dinner table is a victory in its own right, finding enough time to prepare a wellrounded, flavorful meal may just be a medalworthy accomplishment.

Whether a weeknight dinner or special occasion, you can shave precious minutes off your kitchen work and dedicate more moments to doing the things you love with these time-saving ideas that don’t sacrifice quality.

Plan Meals Ahead of Time Organizing your thoughts and scouring the kitchen for ingredients can take as much time as preparing the meal itself. Instead of wondering what you’ll make and whether you have what you need to make it, take time to plan meals a week ahead whenever possible. Think through a complete menu, including main dishes and sides, and take inventory of the pantry and refrigerator so you can build an efficient grocery list.

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Use Ingredients in Multiple Recipes When planning and shopping for your weekly meals, consider which ingredients you may be able to repurpose.

Not only does using ingredients across multiple dishes help minimize waste, it cuts down on prep time. If you’ll be using chopped onion in multiple recipes, go ahead and chop enough for every meal and save the unused portions in the refrigerator or freezer.

Turn to Your Pantry for Simple Sides Flavorful side dishes can be surprisingly simple. For example, Idahoan helps you put real mashed potatoes on the table in just five minutes. They start with 100% real Idaho potatoes from local growers then wash, peel, boil and mash them like you would at home. After cooking each batch, they simply fresh-dry the mashed potatoes so they’re ready for you to prepare at home.

Make Larger Portions Cooking once and eating twice (or more) is an easy equation for saving time. Intentionally making more than

COURTESY OF FAMILY FEATURES

you need ensures fuss-free lunches or plenty of leftovers you can heat up quickly for nights when the family is running in different directions.

Pre-Cook Proteins For many meals, the main dish protein takes the longest to prepare. If you can carve out some time over the weekend or one night a week, multitask and make several batches of proteins to use later in the week. Cooking the proteins concurrently lets you pack multiple days of preparation time into a single supersized session.

Use Time-Saving Tools Traditional methods have their time and place, but a weekday dinner isn’t it. Rely on tools to get the job done faster, like a slow cooker that works hard all day so you can enjoy its labor when you return home or a food processor that takes the effort out of slicing and dicing. ■

LOCAL LADY

KYLE DOWLING

EVERYTHING’S COMING UP ROSES

KATHY VALENTINE

OF THE PLANT PROFESSIONALS

Can you tell me a little about your background?

I grew up here in Michigan, near DeWitt, and started my formal education in a one-room rural school in the St. Johns school district. I loved growing up in a farming community, and I spent a lot of time outdoors on the family cash-crop farm, walking and bicycling to check on crops and observing wildlife. As a teen, I had a horse, and I f ind horses to be fascinating companions.

At MSU, I studied horticulture and botany and graduated in 1980. Those were days when a student could work their way through a college education and graduate with less than $1,000 in debt. I had the good fortune to work in both the teaching and the research greenhouses, working with graduate students and for professors, and gaining a lot of experience with a variety of bench crops.

What hobbies do you have?

I love to garden and observe wildlife, especially birds and insects. I read a broad variety of nonf iction, especially botany, horticulture and historical biographies. Animals, especially dogs and cats, have always been part of my daily life.

And recently, we fenced a large vegetable garden, added a f ire pit and patio, and now are in planning stages to build a cabin in the backyard. We have 40 acres, so there’s more than enough space. I enjoy travel and appreciate the wide variety of climates and landscapes in this country and beyond.

How do you like to spend time with your family?

My cooking skills come into play at holidays. I typically

roast the main course and love to serve a feast when family or friends come to celebrate major holidays or birthdays. My mother was always quick to invite people to eat with our family when they might otherwise be alone, and I love continuing that tradition.

What do you do at The Plant Professionals?

I started as a plant tech and became a trainer and supervisor. Then I got into design, later became a partner and then f inally bought the business. Over the years, the business added f loral design, holiday decorating, and outdoor color planting and care.

Now I have a partner who is helping us grow in new and exciting ways, and a lot of my time is spent creating and reviewing design proposals and planning. We are currently building an enhanced hoop house, which is a type of greenhouse, that will expand our seasons and create more space for growth. I also enjoy helping with “make and take” classes where guests make their own centerpiece or decorate their own wreath with expert tips. I love the comradery in these groups – and, of course, we always serve snacks.

What aspect of your job do you enjoy the most?

I love helping people with the right plants for their project, whether a special event, a green wall, an interiorscape or even a landscape. We have a landscape designer on staff. I also enjoy matching people with positions and work that feeds their joy – people who love plants, and people often f ind a happy f it here.

Photo by Matt McDaniel

Do you have any tips for people looking to keep plants in their homes or gardens?

A little research and planning are always helpful. In a garden, both the amount of sun and the quality of soil are key. In both cases, an experienced gardener or landscaper can easily point you in the right direction as to what plants will work and how to improve the soil quality. Mulch makes life so much easier by suppressing weeds, evening temperatures and reducing frost heave.

What they don’t mention that I love is that 3 inches of wood mulch is better than a kneeler if getting down to prune, weed or cut f lowers has become diff icult.

Indoors, light is the biggest factor. Note the compass direction the natural light comes through the window from, and whether there is unobstructed access for the sun to reach the location where you want to add a plant. With this information, you will be able to select a good match for your spot. So often we fall in love with brightly variegated plants in the garden center or even the grocery, only to be shocked by how quickly they fail at home. Often these are high-light-requiring species that simply cannot acclimate to indirect light away from a south window or greenhouse.■

Kyle Dowling is an employee of M3 Group and is pursuing a writing degree at MSU. He enjoys fiction writing, video games and movies.

APRIL 2020

23

DIY HAND SANITIZER

With the arrival of COVID-19 to Greater Lansing, washing your hands is the No. 1 thing you can do to avoid the spread of the virus.

use of liquor like vodka. But know that most don’t meet that 60% threshold and will not be an appropriate option.

But you can’t wash your hands everywhere. That’s where hand sanitizer comes into play. The problem is, widespread concern by consumers has emptied the shelves of the product.

Here is a recipe to follow to make your own hand sanitizer:

When all else fails, you can make your own.

Just remember, if you to decide to make sanitizer, it should be at least 60% alcohol.

Some recipes you may find online involve the

24 APRIL 2020

Ingredients

2/3-cup rubbing alcohol 1/3-cup aloe vera gel 8 drops of essential oil (optional) Travel container

Directions

In clean plastic bowl, mix rubbing alcohol and aloe vera gel with a whisk until blended.

As an option, add 8-10 drops of essential oil to scent your hand sanitizer. Mix again. Pour into clean travel container. ■

HOW YOU CAN HELP IN UNPRECEDENTED TIMES

BY MARY GAJDA

We are living in unprecedented times We haven’t navigated anything quite like this in decades.

In any crisis, even if you aren’t feeling the pain as much as others, a feeling of helplessness can take over. We don’t know how long our lives will be topsy-turvy amid the COVID-19 pandemic, but we do know we must carry on the best we can.

Many are out of work because of restaurant, bar and public facility closings put in place to flatten the spread of the coronavirus. Older residents are struggling to find basic-needs items due to panic-hoarding of products such as medicines and toilet paper. Those who remain at work have found themselves without day care options.

It’s important to have a plan of action to get you through each day, week or month moving forward until this crisis is resolved.

Here are a few tips to try that will help you feel as though you are doing something.

• If you are blessed enough during this time that you aren’t financially affected, buy gift cards from local restaurants, gyms, salons

• If you know of someone who must stay on the job, leaving their children at home, offer to provide day care if you can.

• Donate to local food banks. Area food banks have been ramping up programs to help feed children in need who are currently out of school. Those initiatives severely limited their supplies. Donate nonperishable goods like peanut butter, canned foods, shampoos, soaps and more.

• If you know someone who will be unpaid in the short term, make them a gift basket with essentials from laundry detergent and other household supplies to gas cards or food and gift cards.

• Talk to your family and make a plan for how you are going to get through this, whether it takes days, weeks or months. Having a course of action will make you (and them) feel in control, lessoning the stress and anxiety for all.

• Make meals for those who have lost income due to closings. Soups and casseroles that they can freeze will be appreciated more than you know.

• Most importantly, be kind. We’re all new to this. We’re all overwhelmed, having grace during these times will be one of the greatest things you can do for others. ■

and other small businesses. Even if you save them until the holidays, your purchases now will help small businesses retain some income.

• Give blood. The American Red Cross has reported a severe shortage of blood due to blood drive cancellations. Make an appointment at redcrossblood.org.

• Offer to grocery shop for elderly neighbors and family. You can create a plan to leave groceries on their front porch.

Mary Gajda is a multi-media specialist at M3 Group. She is a wife, mom and photographer who loves music, Pinterest and all things chocolate.

APRIL 2020

25

BIZ COACH

BY SUSAN COMBS

WINNING THE INFINITE GAME Define yourself in accounting.

Apply today. lcc.edu/getstarted 517-483-1999

As a coach, I’m always looking for patterns – what’s the societal vibe, what’s a theme among my clients, etc.

because their leaders were in an infinite game with a finite mindset. These organizations tend to lag behind in innovation, discretionary effort, morale and, ultimately, performance.”

Over the past year or so, I’ve been puzzled by several of my clients reporting worry over possibly losing their jobs. That would make sense if they were on a performance improvement plan, but I rarely get those types of clients anymore. Instead I would describe my clients as high achievers and viewed as high potentials in their organizations.

Not to mention, their organizations are making an investment in them to have the developmental experience of working with an executive coach.

Aha! That explains the lack of safety my clients were feeling – leaders focused on making the shortterm numbers however they can and not investing in things like developing trust, offering training and development opportunities, and showing courage in leadership. These are things that are needed for a long-running infinite game. Of course, not all organizations function that way. We have many really great companies in our region that do a fantastic job creating a welcoming, trusting and performing culture. A big round of applause should go to them. But for those that could use some help, pick up this book and think about how you could cultivate an infinite mindset – planting seeds now that will help your organizations grow and thrive for years and years to come.

I’ve also heard the term VUCA the past couple of years. It’s an American military term that stands for volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous.

You can even study this and get a VUCA Leadership Certificate from Cornell University.

Yes, that can certainly describe our current times.

But then a colleague gave me Simon Sinek’s new book, “The Infinite Game.” Sinek talks about infinite games versus finite games. Are you playing to keep the “game” – i.e., your company – going strong until long after you are gone or are you playing to just win this 90-day period?

The book jacket reads: “I started to see that many of the struggles that organizations face exist simply

Lansing Community College is an equal opportunity educational institution/employer.

26 APRIL 2020

Susan Combs, MBA and professional credentialed coach, helps clients enhance their leadership skills. She manages corporate mentor programs, the ATHENA WIN Executive Connections groups and Leadership Lansing. She is a licensee of the Fit Leader Program. Visit SusanCombsCoaching.com.

HEALTH

POTENTIAL EFFECTS OF Ozone Pollution ON YOUR HEALTH COURTESY OF MCC

IF ASKED TO OFFER THEIR UNFILTERED REACTIONS TO THE WORD “OZONE,” MANY PEOPLE MIGHT NOT HESITATE TO SAY, “IT’S BAD.” BUT OZONE IS MORE COMPLEX THAN THAT AND CAN ACTUALLY BE GOOD. Ozone is a gas composed of three atoms of oxygen that occurs in both the upper atmosphere of the Earth and at ground level. Where ozone is found determines if it’s good or bad. Ozone in the upper atmosphere, often referred to as “stratospheric ozone,” occurs naturally.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, this ozone is considered good because it protects humans from harmful ultraviolet rays produced by the sun. While stratospheric ozone can protect humans, ground-level ozone offers no such protection, acting instead as a harmful air pollutant.

How is ground-level ozone formed?

Ground-level ozone, also known as tropospheric ozone, is created by chemical reactions between oxides of nitrogen and volatile organic compounds.

These reactions result when pollutants emitted

by various sources, including cars, power plants and refineries, are exposed to sunlight. The EPA notes that ground-level ozone is most likely to reach unhealthy levels on hot, sunny days in urban environments. However, ozone levels can still be unhealthy in winter, and rural areas are not immune, as wind can transport ground-level ozone from cities to the countryside.

What are the harmful effects of ozone?

Ozone can cause a number of health problems that affect the respiratory system. While more extensive studies are necessary, the EPA notes that existing studies suggest that long-term exposure to ozone may increase the risk of death from respiratory causes. Some of the respiratory issues that can develop as a result of ozone exposure include:

Even healthy people are susceptible to these effects, which can be more serious in people with existing respiratory conditions and diseases, including asthma.

Because their lungs are still developing, children are at the greatest risk of exposure to ozone.

Kids also tend to spend more time outdoors than adults when ozone levels are high, increasing their vulnerability to ozone-related health issues. Older adults and people who work outdoors also are most at risk of breathing ozone-contaminated air.

Ozone is not a dirty word, though a certain type of ozone can compromise human health. Learn more at epa.gov ■

• Difficulty breathing deeply and vigorously • Shortness of breath and pain when taking deep breaths • Inflamed, damaged airways • Greater frequency of asthma attacks • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

APRIL 2020

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RECIPE

BY CATHY BLATNIK

LAYERED FRUIT SPRITZER

Spring is upon us. Whether you are hosting a brunch, a Mother’s Day get-together or are just looking for a refreshing beverage, you may really enjoy this layered fruit spritzer recipe. You can even add a splash of champagne. Cheers!

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

20-ounce can pineapple chunks in pineapple juice

1 cup blueberries

6-ounce container blackberries

1 cup gingerale

1 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped

1. Drain the juice from the can of pineapple

chunks and reserve the juice. Set aside. It should be approximately 1 cup of juice and 2 cups of pineapple chunks.

2. In a 16-ounce glass, put a 1/2-cup of the pineapple chunks, 7-8 blackberries, 1/4-cup strawberries and 1/4-cup blueberries.

3. Pour 1/4-cup of the pineapple juice and 1/4-cup ginger ale on top of the fruit.

Makes four servings. ■

Cathy Blatnik grew up in Maryland, but has lived in Michigan for almost 17 years with her family, which includes her husband, adult stepson, adult daughter and a son in high school. She has been baking and cooking for as long as she can remember in Cathy’s “Kitchen.”

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HEALTH

FOODS THAT PROMOTE HEALTHY HAIR AND SKIN Millions of people across the globe deal with conditions that affect the skin and hair. Acne is a

skin and hair ailment that, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, is the most common skin condition in the United States.

But what if the foods people eat could affect the health of their hair and skin? There is evidence that they can.

Foods that contain certain nutrients, phytochemicals and enzymes may help people develop healthier hair and skin.

• Blueberries: The U.S. Department of Agriculture gave blueberries its top ranking for antioxidant activity.

The antioxidants in blueberries neutralize free radicals and protect people from premature aging, which can help the skin look younger and more vibrant.

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• Eggs: Eggs are great sources of protein and biotin, which are two nutrients that may help promote hair growth. The health and wellness information site says biotin is essential for the production of a hair protein called keratin.

• Fatty fish: Fatty fish, such as salmon, are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Ciara Foy, a Toronto-based holistic nutritionist, said about 3% of the hair shaft is made up of omega-3 fatty acids. They’re also found in cell membranes and in the natural oils that keep the scalp and other areas of the skin hydrated.

• Red bell peppers: These peppers contain more vitamin C than oranges. According to dermatologist Dr. Julia Carroll with Compass Dermatology, vitamin C is an antioxidant precursor to collagen production, so consuming more vitamin C through foods can neutralize free radicals that could damage skin.

• Spinach: Trade lettuce for spinach, which is rich in calcium, iron, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids and much more. These nutrients can be the building blocks of healthy skin and hair.

• Oysters: Nutritionist and author Lisa Drayer said oysters are good sources of zinc, which aids in skin cell renewal and repair.

• Coconut: Coconut water is great for hydration and contains potassium, an electrolyte that moves nutrients into the cells. Coconut oil also can be used to boost hair health as a pre-wash conditioning treatment.

The secret to beautiful skin and hair may be hiding in plain sight at your local supermarket. ■

Welcome to

Robinwood

Landing

where each moment matters Meaningful Moments:

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

1 6 3 4 L a k e L a n s i n g R o a d | L a n s i n g , M I 4 8 9 1 2 | 5 1 7. 2 0 3 . 3 0 4 4 | j e a s e n i o r l i v i n g . c o m APRIL 2020

29

Harbingers of Spring COURTESY OF MCC

Budding flowers bursting through the freshly thawed soil are glorious omens of spring.

Spring flowers can revitalize even the most winter-weary of us when we need it most.

While April in Michigan can still bring snowfall, cold-tolerant flowers are hardy enough to start blooming before the last frosts have dissipated.

Home gardeners looking to warm up their gardens with early blooms can use these flowers in their early-season containers, window boxes and plant beds. Let these earlyblooming beauties serve as a sure sign that spring is underway.

Pansies

Pansies prefer cool weather, making them one of the best flowers to plant in early spring and late fall.

Pansies come in a vibrant, vast array of colors, so there’s bound to be an offering that will make your landscape pop.

Snowdrops

Snowdrops can peek out even when there is snow still on the ground, sometimes as early as January and February. But their name is actually a reference to their appearance, as snowdrops have three white petals that hang down like drops dripping off the stem.

Crocus

Crocus plants are small, only reaching 3-6-inches in height. Their grass-like leaves are some of the first sprouts that can be seen among bulb and corn plantings. Preferring full to partial sun, these gold, purple, lavender, white or yellow flowers are to be relished during the earliest days of spring.

Daffodil Daffodil bulbs produce cheerful, yellow flowers in early spring. They’re one of the most recognizable flowers thanks to their familiar shape and fragrant aroma.

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Creeping Phlox Also known as “moss phlox,” creeping phlox is a short ground-covering herbaceous perennial. Phlox produces small, fragrant flowers in dense clusters, which can attract wildlife, such as butterflies, to their mats across the soil surface.

Violets

These flowers are closely related to pansies and prefer cool seasons. Violets are slightly smaller than pansy blooms, but can be just as beautiful. As with pansies, violets will start to fade when the heat arrives.

Lenten Rose

Hellebores, also called the Lenten rose or Christmas rose, can tolerate light frosts. These blooms get their name from the time of year when they bloom, which is typically around the Christian Lenten season. These delightful blossoms come in a variety of shapes, from deep eggplant purple to buttery yellow.

DIY

RENOVATE FOR A HEALTHIER HOME

COURTESY OF MCC

Renovating a home should be an exciting process.

Homeowners choose to revamp their spaces for a number of different reasons; many seek a more updated, modern style, some are looking to repair damages or correct apparent imperfections and others choose to tack on additional living space to accommodate a growing family. While renovations often are associated with aesthetics, they also can work wonders when it comes to restoring the overall health of a home.

Establishing a healthy home takes on a different definition for each individual. To an environmentalist, it may entail incorporating more eco-friendly or green products into the space; to the parents of young children or seniors with mobility limitations, it may mean eliminating potential hazards inside and outside of the home; other homeowners view a healthy home as a place that alleviates allergies.

According to the World Health Organization, poor ventilation, radon exposure, urban pollution and moisture issues can contribute to a number of preventable diseases and injuries, including respiratory problems, nervous system disorders, cardiovascular diseases and cancer.

Additionally, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ranks indoor air quality as a top five environmental risk to public health. EPA studies

have found that indoor air pollution levels were roughly 2 times to 5 times greater than outdoor pollution levels.

Here are a few tips to help you facilitate a healthy home:

The Sunlight Institute assures that there’s no harm in letting natural sunlight do its work, as bacteria within 8 feet of low-intensity UV light can be killed in 10 minutes.

BE AWARE

Toxic PBDEs, chemicals used as flame retardants on furniture fabrics produced prior to 2006, can release toxins into the air. Some manufacturers still use PBDEs in new forms, but these updated versions may still contain similar risks. Before purchasing furniture, ask if a product is treated, and select naturally fire-resistant materials like wool and cotton.

INSPECT

LIGHTEN UP

Lighting can have a dramatic impact on the overall feel of a space, and good lighting can instantly increase productivity and improve your mood.

Experiment with different types of bulbs and lighting fixtures to turn drab and dreary environments into bright and uplifting places.

SHINE

Modify window treatments to let more sunlight into the house. There is evidence that the sun, particularly ultraviolet light, is a potent bactericide.

A study published in the American Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology discovered that regular inhalation of wood smoke limits immune activity and function, and anyone who burns wood indoors should be aware of these potential health risks. Ensuring proper ventilation of smoke and routinely cleaning the chimney cuts down on particulate matter.

DECLUTTER

A cluttered, hectic space doesn’t just affect emotions and mental state; it also attracts dust and makes your home more difficult to clean. Clearing your dwelling of unnecessary items and reserving space for things that serve a purpose and bring you joy will transform your home into a personalized tranquil sanctuary. ■

We Consider Your Business Our Business

Healthy Inside & Out Gita Mahabir has dedicated her life to creating natural products and delivering service as a licensed professional esthetician and counselor since 2001.

Patty Barnas Market President

Jennifer Marsh Vice President Commercial Banking

Melanie Squires Vice President Treasury Management

Commercial Banking Treasury Management

At Mahabir Wellness, we have created advanced clinical skin care inspired by both medical and every need and yield results. By using noninvasive, cutting-edge treatment without harsh chemicals, your skin will thank you.

Book your consultation today.

Major insurance accepted for mental health services.

fnbmichigan.com

www.mahabirwellness.com

Loan Production Office | 330 Marshall St., Suite 200 | 517.319.8000

517-898-8541 | 1640 Haslett Rd., Suite 100, Haslett, MI 48840 APRIL 2020

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MY COMMUNITY

#LOVELANSING LOVE FEST The inaugural #LoveLansing Love Fest was held Feb. 14-15 at Reutter Park in downtown Lansing with a mission to bring attention to the Lansing park system.

“We should have more events in our parks”, said Lansing Made’s Melik Brown.

“There are more than 110 parks in the Lansing city limits. With collaborators like Brent Forsberg of T.A. Forsberg Inc., we can show by doing how fun it is using Lansing parks more for all types of events.”

The event included an ice-sculpture carving, free skating, food vendors and a marshmallow roast. ■ Photos by Melik Brown

Miller Ice Sculptures crafted the #LoveLansing ice sculpture.

Brent Forsberg, George Scott, Corey Bushnell and Jason Bushnell

Brent Forsberg and Lansing Made’s Melik Brown pose for the camera.

32 APRIL 2020

Attendees hit the ice with a man-made rink.

Brent Forsberg and Chaz Carillo stop by Picnic Food Truck

MY COMMUNITY

DANCE MARATHON HELPS SPARROW PATIENTS Michigan State University students danced for hours Feb. 22 during Spartython to raise money for the Sparrow Children’s Center. Young patients and families were there to cheer the dancers on. The event included visits from princesses, a tug of war and lightsaber fights, different forms of dance including Zumba, and more.

Last year, the group was able to donate more than $41,000. This year, Spartython raised over $45,000.■ Photos courtesy of Sparrow Health Systems

The Spartython crew lead attendees demonstrate Zumba to the dancers.

Attendees danced for more than 10 hours during the event.

The event raised $45,036 for the Sparrow Childrens’s Center.

Lights turned green in Spartan spirit.

The final line dance and rave.

APRIL 2020

33

PROFESSIONAL GUIDE

KELLIE JOHNSON

DESIRAE MICHALISKO, RN, CMN

Kellie Johnson is the retail store founder & owner of Kellie’s Consignments, Moving & Estate Sales inspired by communitydriven interaction. She oversees and is extremely involved in day-to-day operations. She spends time in and out of the store building relationships and awareness about recycling through consigning and shopping resale. Kellie’s Consignments offers clothing, furniture and accessories at her retail store, and on the road, she offers estate sale services for those moving or looking to downsize. Her role at the organization includes operations, marketing, strategy, financing, cultivation of company culture, human resources, compliance with safety regulations, sales and public relations. Kellie was the 2016 recipient of the Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Spirit Award.

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

Desirae Michalisko attended Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. She completed her Master of Science degree in nursing and midwifery at Frontier Nursing University.

Michalisko spent many years working in labor and delivery as a registered nurse before attending midwifery school.

She is a member of the American College of Nurse Midwives and the U.S. Army Reserve. Michalisko enjoys camping, sailing and spending time outdoors with her family. She is accepting new patients.

(517) 484-3000 South Campus 1100 S. Cedar St. Mason, MI 48854

MARIE LYNN WIELAND

KISHA GRAHAM Kisha Graham manages the Auburn Hills and Oakland Center branches of Michigan State University Federal Credit Union, which includes leading a team of 16 employees who assist members with deposits, accounts and loan options. She oversees branch operations including product and service training, as well as developing business opportunities. Graham earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Central State University. She volunteers with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. as well as at Little Grace Village.

As administrator of Robinwood Landing Alzheimer’s Special Care Center, Marie Lynn Wieland is an advocate for those living with dementia and their family members. Her years of experience in senior health and wellness bring a depth of commitment to her work that invigorates the Robinwood Landing team. Her ability to connect and engage with those around her make Wieland an invaluable team member. Her servant’s heart and attention to detail ensure the community is a place of warmth, creativity and passion. Wieland puts her best foot forward in each endeavor she encounters. At home, she enjoys spending time with family and cheering for Michigan State University sports teams.

msufcu.org (800) MSU-4-YOU 3777 West Road East Lansing, MI 48823

MEGAN FLEMING

34 APRIL 2020

jeaseniorliving.com (517) 203-3044 1634 Lake Lansing Road Lansing, MI 48912

DARLENE PUJA

Megan Fleming is an Account Executive at M3 Group representing the Capital Area Women’s Lifestyle, Greater Lansing Business Monthly and Ing Magazine. She graduated with a B.A. in advertising from Michigan State University in 2011. With over nine 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 may see Megan at varying networking events including Coffee & Connections, Chamber events and other luncheons.

group

alliance-obgyn.com Main Campus 1560 Turf Lane East Lansing, MI 48823

m3group.biz (517) 203-3333 221 W. Saginaw St. Lansing, MI 48933

Darlene Puja is the proprietor and master injector of Ageless Beauty Center medical spa in Okemos. She studied physiology and psychology at Michigan State University and received her RN license from Lansing Community College.

After graduation, Puja launched her career as a nurse in Michigan, where she specialized in cosmetics, eventually leading to her owning her own business and doing what she loves. As a medical professional, Puja subscribes to a conservative and educational approach to customize to her patients’ needs. She provides the most sophisticated techniques and technologies available in skin care health and beauty to deliver the most beneficial and noninvasive treatments with a thoughtful and caring demeanor.

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

APRIL 2020

35

AUTO LOANS

3 as low as

% .10 APR

1

Your Dream Car Awaits Spring is the perfect time to buy your dream car. With MSUFCU, you’ll get preapproved and receive a ReadyLoan Check — a blank check used to finance your car — in as few as 10 minutes.

Have an auto loan somewhere else? Let us refinance your high-rate loan and save you money with a lower interest rate.

Plus, when you open a new or used auto loan through April 30, 2020, you’ll receive a free seven-piece car wash kit!2 Get preapproved today! msufcu.org/auto | 517-333-2424 | Visit a branch

1

Annual Percentage Rate (APR) of 3.10% is lowest available as of 3/9/2020 and is for members with high credit scores. Rates for vehicle loans are stated for qualified members with high credit scores. Actual rates may be higher and will be determined by member credit score. For full terms and conditions, visit msufcu.org/auto. 2 The auto loan promotion begins at midnight EST 3/1/2020 and ends at 11:59 p.m. EST 4/30/2020.

Offer valid on auto loans of $10,000 or more opened during the promotional period. Qualifying members will receive the car wash kit mailed to addresses on file with the Credit Union within 6-8 weeks of promotion end date. Offer valid for loans on new or used autos and auto loans 36 from APRIL 2020 refinanced other institutions. Offer valid on direct loans only. Promotion does not apply to an existing MSUFCU auto loan refinance. Cannot be combined with any other auto loan offers. While supplies last. Gift may not be substituted or transferred.