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THE POWER OF POSITIVE TOUCH NO-BAKE SWEET POTATO CHEESECAKE HAPPY THANKSGIVING ACCIDENTS

2019 Inspiration & Influence Awards HONORING LANSING’S MOST IMPACTFUL WOMEN

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NOVEMBER

COVER

IN THIS ISSUE

20 Biz Coach

4

From the Publisher

22 Fitness

10 The Power of Positive Touch

5

Good News

24 Holiday Hosting

34 No-Bake Sweet Potato Cheesecake

6

Gift of Reading

26 Hydrate & Refresh

14 2019 Inspiration & Influence Awards

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Feature: Ele's Place

27 Holiday Guide

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Financial Facts

35 Fashion

8

Happy Thanksgiving Accidents

13 Local Woman

36 Events 38 My Community

On the cover: Ashley Brzezinski, Pamela Miklavcic, Priscilla Bordayo and Zaneta Adams| Cover photography by Mary Gajda

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

ISSUE XI • VOLUME XII PUBLISHER TIFFANY DOWLING EDITOR-IN-CHIEF KELLY MAZURKIEWICZ

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Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle is published monthly

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

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

NOVEMBER 2019

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Inspiration isEasy

TO FIND IN OUR REGION You hear words like “rejuvenate” and “revitalize” when people are speaking of the Greater Lansing region, and you can certainly see the tangible results of those words around you when you’re out and about.

However, getting to put a face to some of the people who are continually striving to make a positive difference in the community we call home is always something special.

It’s part of the purpose behind Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine, and it was certainly a driving factor behind the magazine’s effort to partner with the Aitch Foundation to present the Inspiration & Influence Awards. The second annual event was held Oct. 16 at the Crowne Plaza Lansing West, bringing out hundreds of guests to celebrate the work and the stories of several local women.

When we started this program last year, it was heartening to receive a flood of nominees from across the area, and this year was no exception.

It is exhilarating to fully realize of how many smart, bold, innovative and impassioned women are working every day to make our communities and neighborhoods better and improve the lives of those around them. Our nine-member

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panel of judges had the unenviable task of sorting through each nominee’s story and narrowing down the field to the four winners this year.

The 2019 Up and Coming Award for young entrepreneurs went to Ashley Brzezinski, marketing manager at Gillespie Group who has dedicated the past 16 years toward mentoring residents and youth in the Lansing area. Whether it’s leading a weekly youth group and adult leadership team, tutoring and volunteering in the Lansing School District or hosting a summer camp for hundreds of children, Brzezinski is leading by example and helping to shape our next generation.

This year’s Caring About Women Locally Award was awarded to Zaneta Adams, director of the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency.

Adams herself is an attorney and dedicated advocate of both veteran and women’s causes.

She is the founder of WINC: For All Women Veterans, a national advocacy group that raises awareness of issues facing women veterans.

The Judges Impact Award was presented to Pamela Miklavcic, founder and executive director of The Davies Project for Mid-Michigan Children. The organization has provided free transportation to

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

medical appointments to hundreds of families who otherwise had no way of getting there.

The 2019 Woman of the Year Award was awarded to Priscilla Bordayo, a motivational speaker and CEO of the nonprofit Word Up, which targets bullying and boosts self-confidence. Bordayo’s goal for the organization is to target schools, bullying and insecurities in hopes of drawing attention toward the effect our words have on others.

I am extremely honored to give much-deserved recognition to these women who have done so much and embody the spirit of this awards ceremony by truly influencing and inspiring us all. We can all learn from the example they set, and we are proud to include their stories – as well as the stories of the countless other inspirational and influential women in the Greater Lansing region – in the pages of this magazine each month. ■

Tiffany Dowling | Publisher

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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!

NEWS ANCHOR VISITS JAPAN FOR GOODWILL MISSION

SPARROW’S DAISY AWARD WINNER EMBODIES LOVING KINDNESS

WLNS-TV 6 news anchor Sheri Jones was honored to join the MichiganShiga Sister City Commission as a Lansing delegate to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Lansing’s partnership with Otsu, Japan. Jones; her eldest son, Brock; and her daughter, Brianna; joined Lansing Mayor Andy Schor and his family as well as several local delegates on the 10-day goodwill mission.

Infusion and Chemotherapy Center registered nurse Kelly Husted has been recognized as Sparrow Carson Hospital’s second DAISY Award winner of 2019 for extraordinary nursing care.

Sheri Jones and daughter Brianna

“I am forever grateful to have had the opportunity to immerse myself in the Japanese culture,” said Jones.

“I found the people to be gracious, generous and kind. I am looking forward to the Otsu delegation’s next visit to Michigan, when I can reciprocate their hospitality.” ■

Husted was nominated by two patients for the extraordinary care she’s provided to them. One patient who receives treatment every eight weeks said the nurse always makes her feel comfortable and is attentive.

“She truly is a God-sent angel,” the patient said. “I will have to have these treatments for the rest of my life, and I’m glad to come here. Thank you from bottom of our hearts for the care you give to your patients. It does not go unnoticed.” ■

Kelly Husted RN DAISY Award Winner

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.

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GIFT OF READING

GIVE THE GIFT

on important things and staying true to yourself.

The ideas can be applied to any field – not just artistic endeavors.

OF READING

For something challenging, timely and beautifully wrought, try “The Water Dancer: A Novel” by TaNehisi Coates. It offers a perceptive look at the lives of the enslaved and their owners in the late 1850s, as the tobacco crops of Virginia dried up.

BY JESSICA TROTTER

Or, go local and pick up “We Hope for Better Things” by Greater Lansing author Erin Bartels.

This well-written historical fiction work looks at racism in the 1860s, 1960s and the present, as a Detroit reporter learns about the strong women in her family – including herself.

With the holidays around the corner, there’s a good chance you’re looking for gift ideas. As a collection development specialist at Capital Area District Libraries (CADL), I’m able to see a huge swath of the fabulous titles that come through our system, so I’ve gathered some that might be great for gifting this season.

Home DNA tests are very popular these days, but what happens when the results aren’t what you

expect? In “Inheritance: A Memoir of Genealogy, Paternity, and Love” by Dani Shapiro, the noted memoirist digs into her own distressing test results.

Is there someone in your life trying to maintain their passion for their chosen field? Try “Keep Going: 10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and Bad”

by Austin Kleon. Along with previous titles “Steal Like an Artist” and “Show Your Work,” this is an inspiring book for maintaining creativity, focusing

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For younger children (and the rest of the family), I love a good book that can lead to positive discussions. “Alma and How She Got Her Name” by Juana Martinez-Neal is a great conversation starter.

When Alma asks her father for the story of her very long name, it leads to a discussion about the important people in their lives.

If these suggestions don’t hit the spot, check out CADL’s staff picks or use our BookSleuth P.I. service at cadl.org/recommendations for personalized recommendations. ■ Jessica Trotter has been working in public libraries for 17 years and specializes in Readers Advisory or connecting readers with titles they’ll enjoy.

FEATURE

Guidance Through

THE DARKNESS CHILDREN’S GRIEF AWARENESS DAY IS NOV. 21

BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY It’s quietly and deceptively understated and nondescript on the outside.

At first glance, the building at 1145 W. Oakland Ave. in Lansing could house any number of commercial offerings: a dental clinic, an attorney’s headquarters, a doctor’s office. Yet it’s not the exterior that matters – because the inside is “magical,” according to Kristine Kuhnert. Much like the elemental mission Ele’s Place provides to those it serves, the interior is where the hope and the healing take place.

“Children respond differently to grief than adults.

Children don’t like to feel different. They don’t understand all of the things they are feeling,” said Kuhnert, director of Ele’s Place-Capital

Region. “Here at Ele’s Place, they can find a safe place where they can tell someone that they don’t understand why someone died.”

Founded in 1991, the nonprofit, community-based organization is dedicated to creating awareness of and support for grieving children and their families.

Through peer support group programs, Ele’s Place helps children to cope with the death of a parent, sibling or someone close to them. Inside is where children are able to struggle through expressing profound foundational questions and statements about who they are, where they stand, why they are feeling the way they do: “Why did Mom have to go away?” “My brother died, and I don’t know if I’m still a big sister.”

Those expressions that make their emotions more metaphorically tangible are gained through a variety of methods – whether they are verbalized or communicated through art, play or even physical activity.

However, the goal is to enable grieving children to find comfort in the knowledge that someone in their own peer group is there who understands and can help guide them along their healing journey.

While that internal cathartic and curative process is an emotionally draining experience, it is also one that is important and inspirational, Kuhnert noted. Without it, that grief may remain

unresolved, manifesting itself in negative ways that could have long-term ramifications in a child’s life. It’s why the efforts of Ele’s Place and other organizations like it are highlighted on the third Thursday of each November as part of Children’s Grief Awareness Day. Designed to bring attention to the needs of grieving children and the benefits they receive through support and guidance, Children’s Grief Awareness Day falls on Nov. 21 this year. Kuhnert said Ele’s Place will offer tours of its facility to members of public throughout the day so they can develop a better understanding of the purpose and mission of the organization.

“If people want to come in, we’ll be happy to show them around,” Kuhnert said. “A lot of people think they know what happens at Ele’s Place, but then they take a tour and they really get a full understanding.”

That full understanding is vital because Ele’s Place doesn’t collect state or federal funding and offers its services to children and their families at no cost.

“We can do what we do because of this amazing community,” Kuhnert said. “We have a $1 million budget. When someone calls and says, ‘I need help,’ our services are provided because of the support of the people in the community.”

While Ele’s Place always responds to those calls for help, the biggest helpers are time and patience – something counterintuitive to the immediacy of the “fix-it society” of today, Kuhnert said. While it varies from individual to individual, on average a child will utilize the programs of Ele’s Place for roughly a year.

“But it’s open-ended. They decide when they are ready to close,” Kuhnert said. “Sometimes you just need to sit with a person, which is what happens at Ele’s Place. … That’s the best part: Knowing that we’re helping children, knowing they don’t have to pay for it, knowing that they have a place to come.

“No one wants to feel alone,” Kuhnert said, adding, “and here you’re not. That’s the beauty of this building.

It’s where they find they’re not alone anymore.”

For more information on Ele’s Place, visit elesplace.org.■ 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.

NOVEMBER 2019

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REFLECTIONS

BY TEECE ARONIN

HTHANKSGIVING APPY

wooden step. All the way down, this person kept her eyes trained on the gravy boat – and by some miracle, she didn’t spill a drop.

Remember, I’m not naming names.

ACCIDENTS

My favorite Thanksgivings memories are the ones where some disaster happened that made for better entertainment than what we had planned.

My mother and her three sisters rotated the hosting of Thanksgiving every year. One year, my mother cooked a turkey that was given to us by my father’s employer. It was in the oven for hours but wouldn’t brown. It just looked sunburned. Everyone was afraid of it, and my mother said it wasn’t safe to eat, so she sent my father out for KFC. No one minded because of the immense relief that there was someplace open on Thanksgiving where you could buy safe-to-consume poultry.

Whenever it was Aunt Ki’s turn to host, she and Uncle Verne set up tables in their neat-as-a-pin little basement because they had no formal dining room and their kitchen was smaller than the trunk of a Volkswagen Beetle. That meant that everything needed for dinner that day had to be traipsed up and down the basement stairs.

I won’t name names, but one year one of us was handed a full gravy boat by someone who obviously wasn’t thinking. This person slipped at the top of the basement stairs and executed an epic pratfall, punctuated by rapid-fire bumpity-bumps as her backside connected with every single uncarpeted

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Years later, someone was hosting her first Thanksgiving for her new husband and his five – yes, five – children. As she carried a pumpkin pie to the dining-room table where her little/big family had gathered, she fumbled it, and the pie took off like a Frisbee at a dog park. She managed to catch it, but she caught it the same way a percussionist bangs handheld cymbals. The pie was smashed between her hands with chunks of it tumbling down her arms and onto the floor. There was a moment of silence as six sets of eyes got huge around the table.

Then one of the kids laughed, setting off a chain reaction of howls so delightful that the new wife and stepmother wanted to kiss them all because she was so relieved.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone. ■ Teece Aronin is a writer and career coach.

She works with individuals from all walks of life, including persons with disabilities and career-changers. Contact her at teecearonin8 @gmail.com, and read her blog, Chipped Demitasse, at chippeddemitasse.blogspot.com.

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“I serve food at the Advent House, and that’s really fulfilling because there are a lot of people who are less fortunate than me and everyone’s so appreciative. Hunger is something that should not be an issue here in the United States. To me, it doesn’t take anything to be kind to anyone and it’s very important for me to give back to others. I think that gives them inspiration and hope, to see someone like me in there serving them, because we’re no different from anybody else.”

8 NOVEMBER 2019

EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY

ON A BUDGET

The holiday season is here. While you may be thinking, “I want to celebrate with family and friends but don’t want to overspend,” there are ways to have fun and still maintain your budget. Here are five tips to help you make the most of the season – without breaking your budget.

1. TRAVELING? PLAN AHEAD Traveling during the holidays can be expensive. To find the best deals, start looking as soon as your plans are set. Include all costs in your travel budget, such as airline tickets, car rental, gas, lodging, food and other items you may need to buy.

2. BUYING GIFTS? MAKE A LIST First, list every person you intend to give a gift – friends, extended family, co-workers, holiday party hosts, neighbors, teachers and anyone else.

Next, write down how much you want to spend on each person. Then, start looking for online and in-store sales. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are particularly good days to shop for bargains. Do you need to bring a food dish or a gift to a holiday event?

Think of anything that might cost you money and list it next to the events you’re planning to attend.

3. ATTENDING HOLIDAY EVENTS? ONE OUTFIT WILL DO Holiday parties and other events are great times to catch up with friends and family. Plan to wear holiday-themed clothing you already have or add a scarf or another accessory to a standard outfit to make it more festive.

4. TOO MUCH TO BUY? SET A BUDGET Take a look at the lists you’ve made and develop a master holiday budget. Add up costs for events, gifts, travel and all other expenses, then compare the total to your budgeted amount. If expenses are higher than what you’d planned to spend, revisit the categories to see where you can make adjustments.

5. OVER BUDGET? TRACK YOUR SPENDING

FINANCIAL FACTS

BY DEIDRE DAVIS

To help with budgeting for next year, start saving right after the holidays. Saving $25 every other week in a holiday fund starting in January can really add up – you’ll have more than $500 for next year’s holiday season!

Michigan State University Federal Credit Union offers many savings options, including holiday accounts. To help you stay on track, these accounts are limited to two withdrawals per year: One can be made at any time and one occurs in November with an automatic transfer to an MSUFCU savings or checking account, or is mailed out as a check. Visit msufcu.org to learn more. ■ Deidre Davis is the chief marketing officer at MSU Federal Credit Union. MSUFCU’s headquarters are at 3777 West Road, East Lansing, MI 48823. Contact Davis at deidre.davis@msufcu.org or (517) 664-7877.

Keep track of your holiday spending using a personal spending app. Compare how much you’ve spent to how much you’ve budgeted. If you go over budget, make up the savings somewhere else or find a less expensive alternative.

NOVEMBER 2019

9

FROM THE HART

BY KERRY HART

love language needs. Providing a brief but loving touch when you enter a room or leave the house will leave your partner feeling appreciated, loved and missed. Keep in mind that some parts of the body are more sensitive than others. Have fun exploring what kinds of touch might make the person feel the most connected to you over time.

THE POWER OF POSITIVE TOUCH The power of physical touch is often unparalleled in humans. We often thrive and function better with physical touch. That can be as easy as holding hands, a satisfying hug or even booking yourself a massage when your opportunities for physical touch may be few and far between. Times of crisis often are marked by a hug due to the endorphins that are released during physical touch and the calm feeling that ensues once pressure is applied during an embrace Applying strategies for physical touch will enhance your relationships and the feelings of the partners within it.

You can often tell a lot about a relationship by the physical touch that exists within it. To a person whose love language is physical touch, a tender

As you travel from place to place, be sure to reach out and grab your significant other’s hand.

That simple touch will let your partner enjoy the endorphins released from physical touch and show the world around you the connection you share.

hug or a sharp jab will be louder than words. Your spouse, in particular, may find certain kinds of touch either endearing or irritating.

Insisting on continuing troubling touches can be a very loud rebellion of the love and caring that should exist in a healthy relationship. You would essentially be communicating to your partner that you are not sensitive to his or her needs and that you care little about his or her perceptions of what is pleasant.

Physical touch requires little time but will garner a large reward. Sitting close to your partner at an event or even just in front of the television will help communicate your willingness to provide his or her

Combine words of affirmation while providing an extra-special squeeze as you hug that person to add additional good feelings within your relationship.

When you are surrounded by family or friends, feel free to reach out and hold your partner. Let that person know that no matter the situation, you see him or her and want your partner to feel loved. When you are alone, explore different textured fabrics and various types of touch to liven up your relationship.

Who knows where it may lead? â– Kerry Hart is a couple and family therapist with a private practice in East Lansing.

The only thing she loves more than saving relationships is writing about them. See more of her musings at kerryhartcounseling.com.

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10 NOVEMBER 2019

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DIABETES DETECTION IN THE DENTAL OFFICE?

3. Help you personally address, the root causes of your PDM/DM progression and support a new resolve around diet change and increasing body movement. Influencing lifestyle change might become dentistry’s greatest gift, since we have time with you on a regular basis at your preventive recall visits.

4. Learn the screening criteria that invite an “A1C” test to measure two to three months average circulating blood sugar, and get comfortable completing a point-of-care finger stick A1C blood test. Not so incidentally, there is now a dental insurance code for A1C testing in the dental office.

5. Routinely monitor A1C at your periodontal maintenance visits if you also have diabetes, since it’s critical for disease stabilization.

BY DR. SUSAN MAPLES In light of the well-documented impact diabetes mellitus (DM) has on oral disease, and vice versa, the ability to detect DM has become your dentist’s/hygienist’s opportunity, and perhaps soon their responsibility!

More than 60% of those with diabetes have moderate to severe periodontal disease (PD). There is, in fact a bidirectional relationship between active PD and uncontrolled DM, meaning each makes the other worse!

Meanwhile, a dual epidemic is upon us! Sixty-70% of U.S. adults have active PD. Similarly, diabetes and its precursor, PreDiabetes (PDM), together affect 103 million people, one-third of our population! And just like our patients with periodontitis, 24% with diabetes and 89% with PreDiabetes don’t know it…unless their health professionals tell them.

How can dental professionals help?

They can: 1. Learn the DM/PDM risk factor criteria, as well as oral signs of diabetes such as: gingivitis, periodontitis (gum disease), dry mouth, tooth decay, Candida overgrowth, oral infections and neurosensory disorders (taste, smell, swallowing interferences).

6. Work collaboratively with your medical colleagues for pharmacologic assistance in gaining glycemic control and preventing PDM/DM progression.

7. Develop a current and evidence-based protocol for full mouth periodontal disinfection for the diabetic patient—one that includes saliva testing for pathogen identification.

Total Health Dentistry is the future of our profession. It helps save teeth and improve your overall health at the same time! ■

2. Recognize the bidirectional effects of diabetes on gum disease. In fact, evidence suggests that periodontal changes are the first clinical manifestation of diabetes. We are beginning to recognize our critical role in helping diabetic patients gain both glycemic control and periodontal stability, simultaneously.

Dr. Susan Maples is a dentist in Holt.

She is also a speaker, health educator and author of "BlabberMouth! 77 Secrets Only Your Mouth Can Tell You to Live a Healthier, Happier, Sexier Life." Reach her at Susan@DrSusanMaples.com

Our Mission Is: • To treat each person with integrity, respect and kindness.

• To help each person take a significant step toward his or her desired oral and systemic health.

• To serve as leaders in our community in the quest towards total-health promotion and the partnership between all health professionals.

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Personalized Dentistry for a Lifetime of Health

(517) 694-0353 NOVEMBER 2019

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12 NOVEMBER 2019

LOCAL WOMAN

ARINIKO

O'MEARA

Photo by Matthew McDaniel

SEEING THE CITY THROUGH A PHOTOGRAPHER’S EYES

BY KYLE DOWLING Lansing native Ariniko O’Meara spent the past few years in Virginia, but recently returned to the area with her husband and son.

“I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from down there, came back to Lansing and took a few pre-med classes,” she said “But I fell in love with photography and the chemistry of developing film, so I switched over to become a photographer.”

family portraits, and it kind of grew from there.

“I loved that I could make my own schedule,” she continued. “I like being in charge and the flexibility of what I could do. I have twins and an older set of kids, so being able to attend to their activities and be home when I needed to be was very important.”

When asked how she got into photography, O’Meara explained that it started with her family.

O’Meara has released a pair books: “A City Saunter Story” and “The City Saunter Project.” The former is a memoir of her time walking every street in Lansing.

Its companion, “The City Saunter Project,” is a book of all the photos she took on those same walks.

“I was just documenting my family,” said O’Meara.

“So, as my family grew, I was taking their photos.

But then people were noticing my work and wanting me to shoot their weddings or their birthdays or

“The book was so big,” explained O’Meara. “It was 95,000 words. I didn’t have any room for photos. And so I thought the best way to fully present the project was to have a complementary photo book.”

O’Meara expressed pleasure when asked how she felt about the many ways Lansing has changed since she was a young girl.

“It’s phenomenal to watch it kind of grow in that way; the progressiveness of it and going from what it was as a child to what it is now, it’s really exciting,” said O’Meara. “And I think some of the newer people coming into Lansing may think Lansing is almost ready to be this great city or that it’s almost there soon. … But I think if they go back and see how it’s progressed from the early ’70s all the way through, they might be a little more appreciative of where we are right now.” ■

NOVEMBER 2019

13

2019 Inspiration & Influence Awards

Good Girl Radio and Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine have partnered to feature our cover person throughout 2019 in an on-camera interview with Good Girl Radio! Tune in the second Thursday of every month to hear more from these amazing people.

14GOODGIRLRADIO.COM NOVEMBER 2019

Photos by Mary Gajda

Photo by Mary Gajda

Honoring Lansing’s Most Impactful Women

COVER STORY

BY ALICIA FRANK It’s no secret Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine loves celebrating women. In fact, we partnered with the Aitch Foundation to dedicate an entire evening to do just that. Held Oct. 16, the Inspiration & Influence Awards is a night for the mid-Michigan area to come together to honor local women in the community who are making a positive impact and influencing change for a better tomorrow.

As the night began, arriving guests at Crowne Plaza Lansing West were greeted with cocktails and a networking hour. Then co-hosts Jennifer Hodges, vice president of business development at M3 Group, and Lauren Aitch, president of the Aitch Foundation, took the stage to begin a night that four local women and four Michigan State University students would never forget.

“As the publisher of CAWLM, I receive countless opportunities to meet the wonderful women in our community who are continuously making an impact,” said Tiffany Dowling, CEO of M3 Group.

“We have some truly amazing women in this community, and these awards are for everyone else to also be influenced and inspired by these amazing women.”

Along with the Inspiration & Influence Awards, the Aitch Foundation also recognized four Aitch Fellows who are making enormous strides in cancer research. The 2019 Aitch Fellows recognized included Briana To, who was awarded the 2019 Aitch Foundation Aitch Fellowship; Deanna Broadwater, who received the 2019 Joe D. Pentecost Foundation Aitch Fellowship; Yueqi Zhang, who accepted the 2019 Joe D. Pentecost Foundation Aitch Fellowship; and Vanessa Benham, who obtained the 2019 Michigan State University Federal Credit Union Aitch Fellowship.

To accepted her award for the work she has been doing on the deadliest form of breast cancer in women and her approach to triple negative breast cancer by finding the role of E2F5 in this cancer subtype that has the potential to save lives.

Broadwater was recognized for her work and

discovery that fluorescent compounds can be tuned to make therapy with minimal side effects, or nontoxic for detection of tumors through imaging.

Zhang was acknowledged for his work to identify novel factors that promote HCC development in females to help lead to better therapeutic methods for cancer patients. Benham was recognized for her work on chemoprevention of obesity-associated cancer.

With more than 30 nominations of area women, an esteemed panel of judges narrowed the Inspiration & Influence nominations down to recipients in four award categories. The first Inspiration & Influence Award presented for the evening went to the Up and Coming honoree Ashley Brzezinski. She is actively engaged with several organizations and seeks out ways to better the Lansing area while mentoring and inspiring future generations. She oversees a

The night’s keynote speaker was Michigan’s 47th state treasurer, Rachael Eubanks, who inspired the crowd and encouraged them to continue putting their best foot forward as the state of Michigan moves into the future. She touched on her experiences that led her to become the state’s first female treasurer, the inspiration that propels her forward and what the Lansing community means to her.

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COVER STORY weekly K-5 youth program, an adult leadership team and a “Junior Dream Team.”

She leads a weekly women’s group, volunteers and tutors in Lansing schools, and hosts a free summer sports camp for 300 kids.

The second honor of the ceremony was the Caring About Women Locally Award, which went to Zaneta Adams, a disabled Army veteran, attorney and dedicated advocate of both veterans’ and women’s causes. She also is the founder of WINC: For All Women Veterans, a national advocacy group that raises awareness of issues facing women veterans.

The Judges Impact Award was given this year to Pamela Miklavcic. She saw a need in the community and with her organization, The Davies Project, she and her team have served 350 families with thousands of rides to medical appointments that would have been missed otherwise. She and her staff are making an impact in families around the Lansing area daily.

This year’s Woman of the Year Award went to Priscilla Bordayo, founder and CEO of the nonprofit Word Up, which addresses bullying and self-confidence.

One of her largest advocacy efforts has been with the “sister survivors” of the nationally known Larry Nassar sexual abuse case. She and her organization bring the hope, the healing and the education that’s needed to bring sexual abuse to an end.

“Winning the Up and Coming Award was a shock and an honor. To be recognized for being a part of other people’s stories and lives – it’s so much bigger than just me, and I am glad to be a part of a team both at Gillespie Group and City Life Lansing that seeks to love and build the city. #proudtobelansing.”

The inspirational night concluded with pictures, good wishes and gratitude from all in attendance. ■

Ashley Brzezinski Marketing manager of Gillespie Group

Alicia Frank is a journalism graduate of the University of Akron and is now residing in Mason. When not playing with her yorkie poo, she enjoys her coral reef tank and all things fitness related.

Transforming Communities…

Congratulations to each of the nominees and winners of the 2019 Inspiration and Influence Awards!

Building Dreams.

Building Community.

MSUFCU is pleased to support the Inspiration and Influence Awards.

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“I am truly humbled and honored to have been chosen for this award. I truly believe I was given another opportunity at life so that I could continue to serve my fellow veterans. I am thankful to Governor Whitmer, Gen. Paul Rogers, my family and my sister veterans for the opportunity to continue to serve my fellow veterans, both male and female, statewide.”

“The community is really starting to be aware, and that means the world to me. The hope and support, and we are so proud to be a part of the community.

It really makes the struggle worth it.”

Pamela Miklavcic Founder of The Davies Project

Zaneta Adams Director of Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency

“Wow! This award shows me that the difficulties and sacrifices I’ve had to make have truly paid off and is making a difference by bringing healing to the lives of others. It also has shown me that no matter who comes against me, God will turn it and use it for good.”

Priscilla Bordayo Founder and CEO of WordUp

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2019 INSPIRATION & INFLUENCE AWARDS RECIPIENTS

#ProudToBeLansing NOVEMBER 2019

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Lisa Schlais and Jeff Ridenour Aitch Fellows: Yueqi Zhang, Briana To, Deanna Broadwater and Vanessa Benham

Cinnaire team members on hand

Lupe Izzo speaks to the crowd

Congratulations to all of the 2019 Inspiration and Influence Award Winners!

The recognition is well deserved.

The team from Martin

We are inspired by this year’s winners.

CONGRATULATIONS on your contribution to the community!

Martin is pleased to once again sponsor this year’s award and we thank our very own Jill Green for being a guest judge.

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Rachael Eubanks looks on as Lupe Izzo speaks

Gillespie Group had two winners in their midst Awards provided by Larry Cushion Trophies

Jennifer Hodges and Lauren Aitch

The team from MSUFCU

CALWM staff celebrated a wonderful event

Congratulations!

We are pleased to support this event.

Thank you for spreading positivity in our community.

-Laurie Nash President

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BIZ COACH

SERVANT LEADERSHIP

BY SUSAN COMBS

people with respect. Servant leaders care for their team. They seek genuine feedback. And they model this behavior, which in turn “grows” more servant leaders.

So, when I became a boss, I strove for that same idea of developing team members like Georgina, Bob and Christina. Twenty years later, at a tailgate party this fall, I had to blush when Christina so proudly introduced me as her first boss and gushed about how I helped launch her career. It was very sweet and traces back to the foundation set by Mary Louise.

This summer, I attended the funeral of my first mentor, Mary Louise. I got there early because I knew it would be crowded; Mary Louise had a way of positively impacting so many people. And sure enough, as I talked to a few of the 400 attendees, we all had similar stories of how Mary Louise helped launch our careers. Back in the day when I was starting out, Mary Louise gave up the funds in her professional development budget so that I could attend a conference. I didn’t ask her to do this. She just saw an opportunity to help me develop professionally. And truth be told, I was definitely green! That conference was such a gift.

In this month of gratitude, think about how you could be more of a servant leader. How can you support people’s development? How can you show support and build community? Plant the seeds to grow other servant leaders in your organization. And finally, well done, Mary Louise! You will be missed. ■

Mary Louise would be the definition of a servant leader, a term coined by retired AT&T executive Robert Greenleaf in his now-famous essay The Servant as Leader. In workplaces today, we are seeing a shift from the top-down, autocratic leadership style of the past to the model of more team-based, more collaboration and more servant leadership.

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.

Greenleaf listed 10 distinct qualities of servant leadership, including listening, empathy and commitment to the growth of people. Exactly the style of Mary Louise. Servant leaders treat all

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VOLUNTEERING COURTESY OF MCC

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN

HEALTH AND VOLUNTEERING

Volunteering is often its own reward. Helping others can be just as beneficial to the people doing the helping as it is for the people being helped.

Though it can sometimes be hard to find time to volunteer, a close look at some of the various health benefits of volunteering may compel adults and children alike to find the time they need to volunteer.

VOLUNTEERING AND HAPPINESS Veteran volunteers may have long suspected they’re happier when they volunteer, and research suggests that’s true. A study from researchers at the London School of Economics that was published in the journal Social Science and Medicine found that the more people volunteered, the happier they were. The researchers compared people who never volunteered

to people who did, finding that the odds of being “very happy” rose by 7% among people who volunteered monthly. Those odds increased by 12% among people who volunteered every two to four weeks.

VOLUNTEERING AND MENTAL HEALTH Psychologists have long known that social interaction can improve mental health. Psychology Today notes that interacting with others decreases feelings of depression while increasing feelings of well-being.

Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, exposing volunteers to people with shared interests.

That can be especially valuable to people who are new to a community, helping them to avoid feelings of loneliness after moving to an area where they have no preexisting social network.

VOLUNTEERING AND LONG-TERM HEALTH Volunteering that requires social interaction can produce long-term health benefits that can have a profound impact on quality of life as men and women age. A recent study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease focused on participants without dementia who were involved in a highly interactive discussion group. Researchers compared those participants to others who participated in tai chi or walking or were part of a control group that did not receive any interventions. The former group exhibited improved cognitive function, and MRIs indicated they increased their brain volumes after being involved in the discussion group.

Larger brain volume has been linked to a lower risk of dementia. Many volunteering opportunities require routine interaction with others, potentially providing significant, long-term health benefits as a result.

While volunteering is a selfless act, volunteers may benefit in ways that can improve their lives in both the short and long term. ■

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FITNESS

BY KELLY BROWN

If you’re looking to get fit, lose weight or just stay in shape but don’t know how or where to start, that’s no cause for shame. Not everyone is an expert at working out (despite how it may seem on Instagram!). If you’re overwhelmed by the programs online or creating your own routine, and the equipment at the gym looks more like a torture device rather than a method for losing weight, it might be time to consult a personal trainer.

Hiring a personal trainer is an excellent option.

Personal trainers are great if you’re struggling to get started or need a new challenge. You’re less likely to bail on your workout when someone, or something (like your wallet), is holding you accountable. When it comes down to it, you’re ultimately putting the time, money and effort into your new routine and lifestyle. Here are things to keep in mind when selecting a personal trainer.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A

PERSONAL TRAINER AND HOW TO KNOW IF YOU NEED ONE

IDENTIFY YOUR GOALS

If you don’t know why you really need a personal trainer, then it’s not time to hire one. If you plan to invest money into something, it’s best to have a goal or plan outlined heading into it. Having broad goals like “losing weight” is OK, but you shouldn’t make a financial-decision like hiring a coach if you don’t have well defined objectives. Instead, try to set goals like “losing 10 pounds in three months” or “be able to do 10 pullups by Christmas” in order to better utilize your personal training time.

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certain packages if you’re willing to sign a contract to commit to a handful of months or certain number of sessions.

DON’T BE FOOLED BY FOLLOWER COUNTS

Just because that personal trainer has 100K followers on Instagram doesn’t make him or her great. Finding a personal trainer is a very, well, personal thing. He or she must match with your personality and learning style. If you respond well to a lot of shouting and motivational talks, you better find a trainer who can give that to you. Or, if you like moving slower and take longer to learn, a trainer with patience and the ability to speak slowly/softly is going to work better.

A high follower count on social media doesn’t guarantee that someone knows what he or she is doing with their clients.

CHECK IF YOU’RE MAKING PROGRESS

Finally, if you’ve been training for a while but not seeing tangible results, it’s OK to move on.

Sometimes, it’s just not the right match, and that’s alright. Give it a good four to six weeks before you make your decision. The best trainers listen to their clients and try to accomplish their goals with the shortest, most direct path. If your trainers aren’t checking all of your boxes, then it might be time to kick them to the curb. ■

Kelly Brown is a writer, marketer and egg-eater. Her writing has been published across Michigan and the U.S. When she isn’t writing, she instructs at barre classes.

ASK THEM FOR THEIR CREDENTIALS

LOOK AT YOUR BUDGET

There is a fine balance between what you can afford and what you’d be willing to spend. Prices vary based on geographic location, gym affiliation and more. But a trainer who has a large Instagram following and higher education will cost you. Normal prices can range from $125-$200 per session. Before you make the plunge into personal training sessions, be sure you can afford it. Once you find your potential trainer, work with them on pricing. Perhaps they offer

On that note, always ask to see the trainer's credentials. Anyone can advertise themselves as a personal trainer. But it’s those who have taken the time to learn about the human body and become certified that are worth the expense. Things to look for: If your trainer attended an organization that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, which is nationally recognized.

The NSCA-CSCS and NSCA-CPT are the other two to look out for. However, NASM-CPT and ACSM-CPT or ACE-CPT lend credibility as well.

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HOW TO SIMPLIFY

HOLIDAY HOSTING ON THE DAY OF THE PARTY

HOLIDAY HOSTING COURTESY OF MCC

Come the holiday season, many people look forward to gatherings with family and friends. Such gatherings are often held in private homes, and that means someone must take on the task of hosting.

There are many advantages to hosting holiday gatherings. Hosts won’t have to travel during a notoriously busy time of year to take to the roads and sky. Hosts also won’t have to book hotel rooms or arrange for other accommodations, saving them money and time during a season that tends to be expensive and packed with social engagements.

As the day of their holiday parties draws near, hosts can take several steps to make the day of the party easier, allowing them to spend more time with their family and friends.

• Choose the right menu. The right menu can go a long way toward making hosting easier on the day of

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the party. Various factors, such as food allergies and the size of the guest list, must be considered when planning a holiday menu. As hosts scour cookbooks for the right foods, look for recipes that don’t require everything to be done on the day of the party. Prep work tends to take as much, if not more, time as cooking the foods. So look for recipes that allow you to do most, if not all, of that prep work in the days leading up to the party.

• Clean the common areas. Guests likely won’t be spending time in every room of your house during the party. So when it comes time to clean, focus on the common areas where guests will be. Living rooms, dining areas and restrooms should garner the bulk of your attention when cleaning. If guests might be wandering outdoors, make sure leaves and dirt have been cleaned off of patios and decks.

• Plan a playlist in advance. Expect to be busy on the day of the party, even if the party is catered or all the food prep was done long before the first guest arrived.

Because you will be busy welcoming guests, you likely won’t have time to set the musical tone for the party, so do so in advance of the big day. If you want to stick to holiday music, many streaming apps offer various stations that play holiday music exclusively.

Simply choose a station you like and then begin playing music when the first guest arrives.

• Make a list of supplies and check it twice. About two weeks before the party, sit down and make a thorough list of everything you expect to need.

Include food, beverages, dining needs (e.g., plates and silverware) and entertainment. A couple of weeks before the party, purchase items that won’t spoil, such as beverages like water, soda, wine and beer, and extra utensils if necessary. Doing so saves time during your grocery store trip the week of the party.

Holiday hosts can take several steps in the days leading up to their parties to make hosting easier once guests arrive. ■

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HYDRATE AND REFRESH COURTESY OF MCC

HYDRATE AND REFRESH

DRY SKIN Those who want to treat dry, dehydrated skin must understand the difference between hydration and moisturizing as it applies to skin care.

According to Annemarie Gianni, a skin care aesthetician and creator of Annemarie Skin Care, hydrating skin means increasing its water content by increasing the amount of water contained in skin cells. This can result in a healthy, plump complexion. Skin that is properly hydrated will keep fine lines and wrinkles from being overly apparent.

Moisturizing skin involves applying a lubricant that mimics naturally produced lipids and oils in the skin that will protect and soothe.

Hydration and moisturizing often work hand-in-hand. In addition to drinking plenty of water to hydrate the skin from the inside out, individuals can use products that contain hyaluronic acid, glycerin and sodium hyaluronate. These are known as humectants. In addition, the National Center of Biotechnology Information said that aloe can improve water content in the skin. Once water is bound to the skin, a moisturizer will prevent the water from leaving it. Look for moisturizers with natural oils and butters to help retain moisture, like cocoa butter.

The following are some additional methods to maximize hydration and moisturize skin.

• Take warm showers, as hot water can strip the natural lipids from skin and cause dryness.

• Avoid too many alcoholic beverages. Alcoholic drinks are diuretics that can cause the body to lose water, advised WebMD. • Use a humidifier indoors to amp up the moisture level in the air.

• Enjoy water-rich foods, like watermelon, cucumber, grapes, and other succulent fruits and vegetables.

• Drink the recommended amount of water per day, and limit your consumption of caffeinated and sugary beverages.

• Work out to improve blood flow and oxygenation in the skin.

• Try a facial essence. Facial essences are a principle of Japanese beauty regimens and contain fermented ingredients that support skin penetration and hydration.

Anyone concerned about dehydrated or dry skin can get further advice about treating the problem by speaking with a qualified dermatologist or aesthetician. ■

26 NOVEMBER 2019

Illustrated by Jeanette Wummel

Gift Guide

NOVEMBER 2019

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Gift Guide Each year, the CAWLM staff and those who work for our publisher, M3 Group, love to share their holiday gift ideas. Read through them and there is always common thread: gifts from the heart and giving back.

RICH ADAMS

I think gifts that have an impact beyond the Christmas holiday are ideal, so I have tried to focus in on the causes a person supports and make a donation in his or her name to that cause. I have been the recipient of donation gifts to the Wounded Warriors Foundation, and I know that contribution helped disabled veterans long beyond Christmastime.

Serious Fun

Youth Classes Class subjects include Animation & Videography Computer & Technology

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JAMI ANDERSON

My family picks a charity to donate to, so instead of buying gifts for each other we donate the money or use the money to purchase from the organization’s wish list. If you are buying gifts, you can spend time together shopping for the items!

LAUREN BRUMBACH

I think gifts should reflect the giver and the receiver, and Christmas is a time to show how much you’ve paid attention to the people around you.

As a painter, I’ve always found special meaning in a handmade gift unique to the person I’m giving it to. If you have a special talent, use it to make someone feel like they mean a little more!

Photography Robotics

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Enroll at lcc.edu/seriousfun Scholarships and child care are available.

MICHAEL CAGNEY

You can go the Jim route or the Pam route. Diamond bracelet or homemade comic book. $$$ or DIY. If you do DIY, make sure that you plan it months ahead so you really knock it out of the park. High risk, high reward! Similarly, with the Jim gift try to personalize it a little bit instead of just throwing money at something. And don’t listen to Phyllis. DIY doesn’t mean you don’t have money. It means you have a great big ol’ heart.

KYLE DOWLING

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28 NOVEMBER 2019

When I’m looking to get somebody a gift, I usually go for a movie on Blu-ray. Most people have a Blu-ray player and most places have movies.

The trick is to pick movies that you know the person would like or that you would love to watch together. Just be sure to keep the gift receipt in case you’ve accidentally chosen their favorite movie that they already have three copies of.

TIFFANY DOWLING I like to add someone’s name to a gift they will use and appreciate over time. Personalization says so much about your relationship because you have to take time to seek out the perfect item and then have enough time to receive it prior to the gift-giving day. For instance, adding a friend’s last name to a serving platter is something she could keep and pass on for generations.

ZACH DOWLING

PAT DOWLING

I like to get people a gift that gets them outside being active with friends and family after all the snow goes away, like baseball tickets or golf passes.

Boutique and specialty local shops are a great place to find unique gifts. As I’m out and about, I like to stop into local shops and look for specialty items that are unique and fit the personality of the people I’m shopping for.

CODY FELL

A French press along with a bag of your favorite beans is a great gift for the coffee lover on your list. French pressing coffee is a simple and delicious way to enjoy your brew, plus then they never have to worry about buying filters again!

CAREY JARVIS For those on my list that haven’t given me ideas, I like to give homemade treats like a jar of peach salsa or apple butter with a cool label with their name on it, or maybe some homemade treats inside a mug they can keep. Something tasty to eat or drink inside a fun container.

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MEGAN FLEMING

ALICIA FRANK

I always find it difficult to find a gift for my dad and brothers. They always buy the things they need when they need them, so it’s hard to cross something off their want list since it’s never very long. For them, I like to grab them a ton of lottery tickets! I’ve never seen them get more excited to fish for a quarter to begin seeing if they have a winning ticket.

I prefer to give or get a gift that has thought behind it.

The first thing that comes to mind is quality time. Take time out of your busy schedule to show someone you care by spending time and creating some memories with them. That memory may be one to cherish for a lifetime.

Enjoy life with someone and give them that memory to take with them when they go.

CHELSEY FREEDMAN

MARY GAJDA

Being extra is the way to go with gifts. I say go all out and don’t hold back on special occasions. Spend that extra dollar to make that person’s jaw hit the floor and jump out of their seat screaming! The look on my girlfriend’s face when I got her that new Fenty Beauty foundation, setting powder, lip gloss and brush set by Rihanna was the best face ever!

Taking an idea from popular services where several items come in one package, like Ipsy and FabFunFit, I like to personalize large custom boxes for each member of my family. Last year was the first year I’ve tried this, and it was a huge hit. For those that want to donate to a cause, I recommend contributions to the PSP Foundation of America at psp.org.

JENNIFER HODGES

AVANTI KANTUMUCHU

I like to give gifts that I make. I love crafts, so I enjoy making something special that reminds me of the person. While I am making the gift, it gives me a chance to think about the person it is for. This takes some planning so I am not scrambling on Christmas Eve.

An oil diffuser with essential oils would be a perfect gift for Christmas as they spread the aroma just like Christmas spreads joy.

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ZACK KRIEGER My wife and I like to give to different charities on behalf of our daughters. We surely go the Santa route with them too, but donating to local organizations during the holidays and explaining the impact of that to the kiddos is an amazing experience to share.

ADAM LANSDELL

MORGAN LARSON

Everyone knows a Disney fanatic – and if you don’t you surely know a superhero nerd. So, what better gift for them than a subscription to the latest streaming platform to hit the market – Disney+, which launch this month. For just $7 a month, subscribers will have more than 7,500 episodes and 500 films from the Disney vault right at their fingertips.

DIY/handmade gifts are my favorite to give. They are more meaningful and thoughtful, so fun to make, and usually a money saver. Plus, you can personalize them more to make it perfect for a specific person. A win-win for everyone!

KELLY MAZURKIEWICZ

MATTHEW MCDANIEL

I love giving cookbooks! There are so many out there with great pictures and themes. Cooking with beer, the paleo diet, date night cooking – the list goes on! They’re not only a fun gift, but a useful one!

I always find myself making things for people that I care about. I illustrate things all the time, and sometimes I just make them a card or a small art piece that I’d think they would like. I think the main thing to think about is the person and what they would like to have as a gift. Honestly, having purpose and thought behind any gift is what really matters.

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International transaction fees

Open your Visa Signature Credit Card today! msufcu.org/visasignature | 517-333-2424 | Visit any branch

Cardholders will earn the following cash back rewards: 3% on groceries; 2% on gas, travel (hotels, motels, resorts, taxi/limo, and car rentals) and universities (when making tuition payments to MSU using a credit card, a service fee of 2.2% will be charged by the university); 1% on all other purchases for every one U.S. dollar in eligible net purchases made on their Visa Signature Credit Cards, rounded to the nearest whole dollar. Cash back is not earned on tax payments, any unauthorized charges or transactions, cash advances, convenience checks, balance transfers, or fees of any kind. Account must be in good standing to redeem cash back. Returns result in the loss of cash back equal to amount returned. Negative cash back will be given if returns or credits exceed purchases. Certain restrictions, limitations, and exclusions apply. Visit msufcu.org for full terms and conditions. Federally insured by NCUA

NOVEMBER 2019

31

There’s nothing better than giving a handmade gift.

2-Day Designs and 2nd Chance Art, shown here, are only two of our many handcrafted lines.

With so much to choose from we’re sure to have that unique item for your gift giving.

Big on reclaiming and recycling, 2-day Designs, Eastanolee, GA, home collection uses retired oak wine barrels repurposed into everyday furniture and accessories, some items can be personalized with carved imprint. Enjoy gifting these handcrafted items or adding them to your own home’s decor.

A. Mission dartboard cabinet, $249. Personalized, $269. B. Barrel head pool cue table, $269.

C. Napa bistro table, $289. D. Barrel stave wine rack, $99. E. Daisy stave swivel stool, $249.

Personalized, $269. (choose from 24-, 26-, 28- or 30-inch heights) Custom and personalized items should be ordered by 12/1.

A.

D.

E. C.

B.

F. G. H.

I.

2nd Chance Art, Minooka, IL, transforms vintage and reclaimed items creating prints of maps, team photos, patent plans and more, in a handcrafted shadow box frame.

These “one-of-a-kind” ageless art pieces are sure to spark memories and conversation in any home or man cave.

F. 1909 Detroit Tigers with Ty Cobb. G. 1915 Great Lakes Map. H. 1932 U of M National Football champs, featuring No. 48, Gerald Ford.

I. 1915 MAC varsity football with Gideon Smith, the first African American to play for MAC (Michigan State). J. 1906 Lake Michigan map. Your choice; $139 ea.

Custom orders should be placed by 12/1.

Each American-handmade item in Homeward Bound is marked with a “HANDCRAFTED” tag J. to ensure you that each item has been created with care and true American pride by American artisans.

The hope is, each and every handcrafted piece we sell, brings many years of pride and joy knowing it’s been designed and created here in our homeland.

Little Red Schoolhouse

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE SAT., NOV. 2 32 NOVEMBER 2019

inside the Little Red Schoolhouse, 5002 W. Saginaw, Lansing • 517-285-0987 • Open daily 10-8, Sun. 12-5

CHRISTOPHER NAGY Late on Christmas Eve, I like to sneak downstairs and just add my name in the “from” section on gift tags. I save so much money by doing that. But seriously, I enjoy giving back a bit during the season.

The Salvation Army where I live participates in the Angel Tree program, where kids write a few of their Christmas wishes down on cards that are hung on a tree. I try to grab a few of those cards each year.

LIZ RENO-HAYES The gift of fun is something I like to share with friends and family for the holidays. Give ’em a good old-fashioned board or card game! “What Do You Meme?” is a hilarious party game.

JOYCE RUTTAN I say it every year, but it’s because I give this idea every year! I love to buy ornaments for milestone events that have happened during the year like engagements, weddings, new babies and more!

MARK WARNER

JEANETTE WUMMEL

The old throwback gifts are the best. My favorite one-and-only sibling Matt is my big brother. We used to watch a lot of kung fu and action movies growing up, so I found a great throwback gift – a Chuck Norris quotes calendar. Somehow we both gave each other the same Chuck Norris calendar. No joke; it was hilarious! When in doubt, remember: Give a throwback from the heart.

I like to give the gift of experience. You can usually find a fun experience for everyone. Things like tickets to the movies, laser tag, escape room passes, tickets to a sporting game or music event or theater are all great things to give. ■

MORE CASH BACK

3%

on groceries

Open your Visa Signature Credit Card today! msufcu.org/visasignature | 517-333-2424 | Visit any branch

Cardholders will earn the following cash back rewards: 3% on groceries; 2% on gas, travel (hotels, motels, resorts, taxi/limo, and car rentals) and universities (when making tuition payments to MSU using a credit card, a service fee of 2.2% will be charged by the university); 1% on all other purchases for every one U.S. dollar in eligible net purchases made on their Visa Signature Credit Cards, rounded to the nearest whole dollar. Cash back is not earned on tax payments, any unauthorized charges or transactions, cash advances, convenience checks, balance transfers, or fees of any kind. Account must be in good standing to redeem cash back. Returns result in the loss of cash back equal to amount returned. Negative cash back will be given if returns or credits exceed purchases. Certain restrictions, limitations, and exclusions apply. Visit msufcu.org for full terms and conditions. Federally insured by NCUA.

NOVEMBER 2019

33

RECIPE

BY CATHY BLATNIK

INGREDIENTS ● 6-ounce graham cracker crust ● 1/2 cup cooked sweet potato ● 8 ounces cream cheese, softened ● 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

NO-BAKE SWEET POTATO CH E ESEC A KE You’ve got company coming and still haven’t put together a dessert. No time to dig through old recipes, you’ve got to get baking. With just seven ingredients and a nobake method, this cheesecake will be a crowd pleaser!

● 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg ● 1 tablespoon orange juice ● 1 cup marshmallow creme

DIRECTIONS ut the sweet potato, cream cheese, cinnamon, nutmeg, orange P juice and the marshmallow creme in a large bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth. Spread evenly into the graham cracker crust, cover and put in the fridge for a minimum of three hours. If you want to make this cheesecake extra special for the holidays, try putting some whipped cream topping on it right before you serve a slice to your family or friends. I promise you they will be super impressed! ■ 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.”

517.574.4523 5000 Marsh Road, Okemos

SPEND $30 GET $5 OFF

With coupon only. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Excluding tax. Does not include gift certificates. One coupon per person, per day.

WWW.KELLIESCONSIGNMENTS.COM

LEGACY JEWELRY & DECADES VINTAGE N o w i n s i d e K e l l i e ’s C o n s i g n m e n t s !

34 NOVEMBER 2019

Bring the serenity home Come visit us at our new retail Wellness Boutique opening in November In the Campus Town Mall next to our current suite massageandwellnessonline.com (517)203-1113 514 E. Grand River Ave. #5, E. Lansing, MI 48823

There’s no place like home; and if you’re looking for home décor or holiday table settings, visit Kellie’s Consignments in Okemos and expect the unexpected. Kellie and her team wish you a joyful Thanksgiving holiday!.

10 15

2 8

14 4 11

7

9

16

6

12

5 17 3 Setting – 1. Chairs (brown/tan) set of six, $350 2. Assorted scarf, $6

13

3. Saloon wood table (cherry), $749 4. Green glasses (set of four), $10 5. Pottery Barn Pheasant plates (set of six), $29 6. Pottery Barn eight-piece white plates, $39 7. Gold-trim pumpkin, $6

1

8. Décor wood vase, $8 9. Décor Asian tea pot, $8 10. Décor tree picture, $89 Kellie’s outfit – 11. St. John knit leather jacket, $399 12. Cabi blouse, $59 13. White House/Black Market dress pants, $22 14. Pearl necklace, $4,566 15. Pearl earrings, $1,737 16. Pearl ring, $495 17. Diamond wedding band, $4,999 18. Kate Spade sling backs, $79

18

FASHION

KELLIE’S ON THE ROAD TO STAY ABREAST OF UPCOMING ESTATE SALES, CHECK OUT: KELLIESCONSIGNMENTS.COM/ESTATESALES

NOVEMBER 2019

35

E V E N TS NOV . 1 Free Lunch at Kellie’s Consignments, Okemos Free Lunch Friday is the first Friday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pass out your business cards, shop the sales and enjoy lunch. Please RSVP to let them know how much food to prepare. The event is on Eventbrite. Visit kelliesconsignments.com for more information.

NOV . 8 Lansing Bourbon Fest, Lansing The inaugural Lansing Bourbon Fest is scheduled for Nov. 8 with two sessions being offered. Session one runs from 5-8 p.m. and session two runs from 9-11 p.m. The event is an indoor bourbon festival hosted in The Cadillac Room in REO Town. This festival will feature 100-plus whiskeys as well as food trucks, live music, vendors and more. Tickets are available at Eventbrite.com.

NOV. 9

Cider, Flannel, Donuts & Tokens at The Grid, Lansing It’s time to break out the winter flannel. The Grid is partnering with Farmhaus to bring its cider selection of Carrot Cake, Salted Caramel and Sweater Weather. This event will also feature doughnuts from Groovy Donuts.

Visit facebook.com/TheGridOldTown for more information.

Zoo in Your Neighborhood, Eaton Rapids Zoo in Your Neighborhood is a program that provides communities throughout mid-Michigan opportunities to have memorable encounters with the live ambassador animals from the Potter Park Zoo. This event is set for 11 a.m. to noon at the Eaton Rapids Area District Library. Live animal presentations are an up-close-andpersonal presentation with ambassador animals and are an opportunity to learn about the zoo’s animals and their natural behaviors. Visit lansing.org/event/zoo-in-yourneighborhood/23297 for more information.

NOV . 3

NOV. 10

NOV . 3

Run-A-Munk 5K Trail Run, Lansing Woldumar Nature Center’s annual 5K and 10K trail races are back. This is a chip-timed event on an amazing course. Your participation supports quality science education that instills passion for the natural world in young people throughout the Greater Lansing area.

Visit woldumar.org/events/run-a-munk-5k-trail-run for more information.

Lansing Model Train Show and Sale, East Lansing All aboard Michigan’s largest model train show held at the Michigan State University Pavilion with over 500 tables of new models, toy trains, artwork and much more. On track will be model trains running along nine various-size modular displays. Admission is $6 and free for children under 12 as well as Scouts in uniform.

Tickets are only available for purchase at the MSU Pavilion ticket office. This event is cash only. Visit lmrc. org/trainshow/index.shtml for more information.

NOV. 13 Live Music at EagleMonk Pub and Brewery with Chad Benson, Lansing Come to EagleMonk to enjoy some live music. Stop by on the second Wednesday of each month to hear Chad Benson’s original music. Get a preview of his music at chadabmusic.com.

NOV. 13 NACW Luncheon with Dr. Karen May, Lansing The National Association of Career Women Lansing Chapter will be holding its luncheon at the UrbanBeat Event Center with key speaker Dr. Karen May. Visit facebook.com/NACWLansing for more information.

NOV. 15 The Chris Canas Band at Lansing Brewing Co., Lansing The Chris Canas Band has a well-blended set of classic covers and clever, roller coaster-like originals that keep the audience captivated and coming back for more.

With the band’s diverse mix of blues, funk and soul, it is always well-equipped to bring the party. Visit facebook. com/pg/LansingBrewing/events for more information.

NEW Medicare Option in Your Area! Introducing Sparrow Advantage (HMO-POS).

Physicians Health Plan (PHP) created the Sparrow Advantage plans to better serve people with Medicare in your community.

The new plans are designed to not only provide you with more benefits and savings, but also a better overall healthcare experience.

Making Medicare Simpler, Easier, and More Affordable All the benefits of Medicare Parts A and B

A large network of doctors and hospitals throughout the area to choose from

As low as $0 monthly premiums

Money-saving extra benefits including dental, vision, and fitness club memberships

$0 copays on many generic medications

Coverage when traveling

No medical or prescription drug deductibles

And much more!

Request a FREE Information Kit and learn more about why a Sparrow Advantage plan is right for you.

Visit SparrowAdvantage.com or call 844.936.0301 (TTY: 711) from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week.*

*You may reach a messaging service on weekends from April 1 to September 30 and holidays. Please leave a message, and your call will be returned the next business day. Sparrow Advantage is an HMO-POS with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Sparrow Advantage depends on contract renewal. PHP Medicare (HMO-POS) complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 844.529.3757 (TTY: 711).

844.529.3757 H7646_20-355_M . 711

(

36 NOVEMBER 2019

EVENTS NOV. 17

STARTING NOV. 22

NOV. 22-24

Feel the Beat Drumming Circle, Bath Township Bring a drum or percussion instrument and share your rhythmic talents. The drums typically used in a drum circle include hand drums as well as percussion instruments such as shakers, rattles, bells, woodblocks and tambourines. No musical experience is necessary and all ages can participate. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. This is a free event.

Visit bathtownship.us/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/ DrummingCircleInfoFall2019withDates.pdf for more information.

Holiday Lights … Stadium Style, Lansing Holiday Lights … Stadium Style debuts this year at Cooley Law School Stadium and runs from 5:30-8:30 p.m. every Friday and Saturday through Dec. 21. Tickets are $5 per person. Kids ages 6 and under get in free. The stadium will feature a 360-degree walk-around holiday light show featuring train rides, ornament making, a holiday crafts station, cookie decorating, warming stations in the Chevy Terrace with fire pits and a s’more station, plus family holiday movies on the big screen, Big Lug as the Grinch, and letters to Santa. Visit milb. com/lansing for more information.

Cowboy Christmas, East Lansing This all-breed horse show includes freestyle reining, trail, walk trot, lead line, all age groups, lope classes English and western, and halter classes. It is held at the Michigan State University Pavilion. Visit facebook.com/ events/2414188002193494/ for more information.

NOV. 19

Lansing Storytellers Project, Lansing The Lansing Storytellers Project shares stories of “consequences” – realizations, ramifications and reaping what you sow – at the Lansing Brewing Co. There will be two showtimes for this event, one beginning at 6 p.m. and one at 8 p.m. It is open to the community for $12 per person in advance or $15 at the door. Visit tickets. lansingstatejournal.com to buy tickets.

NOV. 22 Silver Bells in the City, Lansing The city will glow with thousands of lights for the Silver Bells in the City celebration, bringing together family and friends from across Michigan and beyond to kick off the holiday season. The Electric Light Parade, Silver Bells Village, lighting of the state Christmas tree and musical entertainment are all part of this Lansing tradition. Visit silverbellsinthecity.org for more information.

?

STARTING NOV. 21

Wonderland of Lights, Lansing The Potter Park Zoo is transformed into a magical winter wonderland with thousands of holiday lights and extraordinary visual displays from 5-8 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays through the end of the year. Kids activities, entertainment and your festive animal friends make this a fun event for the whole family. The event is closed Christmas Day. Visit potterparkzoo.org/events for more information.

NOV. 22

Be Kind Rewind, Lansing Be Kind Rewind is an American 1990s-2000s alternative rock cover band based in Lansing. The band will perform at the Lansing Brewing Co. starting at 8 p.m. Visit facebook.com/LansingBrewing/events/ for more information.

STARTING NOV. 23 Peacock Road Family Farm in the Christmas Season, Laingsburg This is an especially magical time at Peacock Road Family Farm. Come out and ride the Peacock Express to visit with Santa. He will be at his cabin in the woods with Mrs. Claus. Stop by the Sugar Shack to visit with Chrissy the Elf and make a caramel apple, visit Miss Rachel in Farmer Ed’s Feed Trough for a famous pulled pork sandwich, check out the wreath shop for a custom-made kissing ball and pick out all our Christmas decorations at the Christmas Shoppe. The farm is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Visit peacockrff.com for more information.

NOV. 28 Lansing Turkey Trot, Lansing The 19th annual Lansing Turkey Trot steps off Thanksgiving morning. Ticket prices until Nov. 22 are $25 for individuals, $20 for runners under the age of 18 and $20 for families of three or more. Register by Nov. 22 to be guaranteed a T-shirt. Visit runsignup.com/Race/ MI/Lansing/LansingTurkeyTrot to register for the race.■

Did You

Know?

CADL members can get special pricing or free admission on selected movies, expos, concerts, stage shows and sports events.

Not a member yet? Get a card at any of our 13 branches or cadl.org/card.

GET THAT

GLOW WITH HALO!

agelessbeautycenterokemos.com

2395 Jolly Road Suite #145, Okemos, MI, 48864 | 517-203-5052 NOVEMBER 2019

37

MY COMMUNITY WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S

The Walk to End Alzheimer’s was held in Lansing on Sept. 29.

While the day started with heavy rain, the community’s support was amazingly strong. Several hundred attended and walked the approximately 2-mile route that wrapped around the city of Lansing and the River Trail path. The day featured a thank-you send-off to Jane Aldrich and Kip Bohne, who have been event chairs for the past 20 years. WSYM-TV Fox 47 anchor Sarah Swistak served as master of ceremonies for the festivities and state Rep. Julie Brixie spoke of her passion for the for mission. Donations will be accepted through the end of December. ■ PHOTOS PROVIDED

State Rep. Julie Brixie

Left to right: Marie Lynn Wieland, Administrator Cheryl Pion, Community Resource Director Andrea Martinez, Business Office Manager Christy Holman and Health Services Director Caleb Holman

In spite of the rain, the community showed strong support for the event

Event emcee Sarah Swistak from Fox 47, WSYM

"Butter Makes it Better"

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

WILLS •TRUSTS •PROBATE •LITIGATION •ESTATES •POWER OF ATTORNEY

www.bakencakes.com | Find us on Facebook

517-507-3306 | SallyBabbittLaw.Com 6005 W. Saint Joseph Hwy| Suite 302|Lansing |MI|48917

38 NOVEMBER 2019

MY COMMUNITY CHAMBER’S SUMMER CONCERT SERIES ANOTHER SUCCESS Residents of Mason enjoyed the Thursday Night Live!

Courthouse Concerts hosted by the Mason Area Chamber of Commerce and presented by Independent Bank on select Thursday evenings throughout the summer months.

Among performers was the Twilight Memories Big Band, an 18-piece community orchestra, and the SeaCruisers.

The series concluded with a concert by the Mason High School Band on Sept. 19, led by band director Beth Bousfield. The Mason High School Cheer Squad joined the band in the program sponsored by CP Federal Credit Union. ■ PHOTOS PROVIDED

Twilight Memories Big Band, an 18-piece community orchestra, performed on the Ingham County Courthouse lawn

Beth Yeider and Miranda Davis of Independent Bank with Brenda Finch and Ed Gunn of Mason

Jamie and Scott Robinson of Mason

Shelly Sysum, the vocalist for the Twilight Memories Big Band

Classical Music To Fit

YOUR

Style

Jamie Paisley

weekday afternoons

Jody Knol

weekday mornings

Shop smart gifts and toys!

Downtown Lansing Tues-Sat 10-5 Sun 12-5 NOVEMBER 2019

39

PROFESSIONAL GUIDE DARLENE PUJA

SALLY BABBITT

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

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

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

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

sallybabbittlaw.com (517) 507-3306 6005 W. St. Joseph Highway, Suite 302 Lansing, MI 48917 DR. SUSAN MAPLES

agelessbeautycenterokemos.com (517) 203-5052 2395 Jolly Road, Suite. 145 Okemos, MI 48864 HEATHER COOPER KIM, CMP, CTA

Dr. Susan Maples is a 30-year clinician who leads a total health and dental care practice in Holt, Michigan. She is one of the Top 25 Women in U.S. dentistry and also one of the Top 8 Innovators in Dentistry, according to Dental Products Report.

Dr. Maples is co-author of ”Blabber Mouth, 77 Secrets Only Your Mouth Can Tell You To Live a Healthier, Happier, Sexier Life” and is the co-investigator for an award-winning study on the detection of diabetes in the dental office.

Born and raised in Lansing, Michigan, Heather Cooper Kim was hired as the faith-based sales manager for the Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau in 2007. She is a Michigan State University graduate and a former Spartan gymnast. Her career began in the hospitality industry as a sales manager with the former Holiday Inn South. In 2018, Cooper Kim won the C. Colton Carr-YMCA Service Award. She has volunteered at the Lansing YMCA since 2010 when she was a member of the Christian Emphasis Committee. Being the chair of the Christian Emphasis Committee also placed her on the Board of Directors for the YMCA. She has been part of the annual campaign committee since 2014.

Drsusanmaples.com (517) 694-0353 2101 N. Aurelius Road, Suite 1 Holt, MI 48842

hkim@lansing.org (517) 377-1401 500 E. Michigan Ave., Suite 180 Lansing, MI 48912

Holiday Giving Help provide hope and happiness for STVCC clients this holiday season.

Check stvcc.org and our Facebook for more information soon.

Community Thank You Open House

SE AT T L E

Friday, December 6, 2019 | 6:00 am - 10:00 am 2800 W. Willow St., Lansing, MI 48917 Join us in the Children's Home Gym for a hot breakfast as our way to thank our community for your continued support!

stvcc.org | 517.323.4734 40 NOVEMBER 2019

SA N FR A NC I SCO

WHERE BUSINESS GETS DONE #LOVELANSING, MICHIGAN

MAC K I N AW C I T Y T R AV E R SE C IT Y G R A N D R A P ID IDS C H IC AG O D E NV E R

Award-Winning Experts*

*Voted Best Large CVB in Michigan Two Years Running

IN D I A N A P O LI S

D E T R O IITT C LE V E L A N D 90 F O RT WAY N E CO LUM B U S C I N C I N N AT I 300

Central Location Boosts Attendance

BOSTON

NE W YOR K

WA SH I NGTON D. C .

Access to Thought Leaders at 2019 41 Michigan NOVEMBER State University

MORE CASH BACK THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

LUXURY HOTEL COLLECTION | NO INTERNATIONAL TRANSACTION FEES VIP EXPERIENCES AND EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS | TAP TO PAY TECHNOLOGY

3% 2% 1%

cash back on groceries1

cash back on gas, travel, and universities1

cash back on all other purchases1

The MSUFCU Visa Signature Credit Card gives you more cash back on the things you buy the most, exclusive access to amazing events, discounts at over 95 golf courses worldwide, savings on premium ground transportation, and access to the Visa Signature Luxury Hotel Collection.2

$100 Welcome Offer Plus, receive $100 when you spend $3,000 with the MSUFCU Visa Signature Credit Card within the first three months of card approval.3

Open your Visa Signature Card today!

msufcu.org/visasignature

1

Cardholders will earn the following cash back rewards: 3% on groceries; 2% on gas, travel (hotels, motels, resorts, taxi/limo, and car rentals) and universities (when making tuition payments to MSU using a credit card, a service fee of 2.2% will be charged by the university); and 1% on all other purchases for every one U.S. dollar in eligible net purchases made on their Visa Signature Credit Cards, rounded to the nearest whole dollar. Cash back is not earned on tax payments, any unauthorized charges or transactions, cash advances, convenience checks, balance transfers, or fees of any kind. Account must be in good standing to redeem cash back. Returns result in the loss of cash back equal to amount returned. Negative cash back will be given if returns or credits exceed purchases.

2 Certain restrictions, limitations, and exclusions apply. Visit msufcu.org for full terms and conditions. 3 You will receive $100 once you spend $3,000 on net purchases within the first three months after MSUFCU Visa Signature Card approval. Purchases must post to your account within the first three months. Once you qualify for this bonus, we will apply it to your Visa Signature card balance within 45 days. Qualifying purchases exclude tax payments, any unauthorized charges or transactions, cash advances, convenience checks, balance transfers, or fees of any kind. Returns or other reversals of purchases conducted within the first three months will be excluded. Account must be in good standing to receive $100. Account is not in good standing if closed or suspended. If the account is closed by either you or by the Credit Union for any reason prior to the $100 bonus being credited to your card, the bonus will be considered to have been forfeited. This onetime $100 offer is valid for new, first-time MSUFCU Visa Signature cardholders only. This offer may be canceled at any time without notice. Visit msufcu.org/visasignature for full terms and conditions. Federally insured by NCUA.