Letter from the Publisher
Welcome to Total Local Mason: Spring/Summer 2025 Issue!
We’re excited to bring you the third issue of Total Local Mason, your community magazine dedicated to celebrating local life and supporting small businesses. Formerly known as CRG Directories, we’ve been publishing the business directory (also known as the “phone book”), a Mason staple since 1993. After decades as an annual directory, transitioning to a quarterly magazine has been a significant shift, and we truly appreciate your continued support throughout the process.
In this issue, we highlight the many service clubs contributing to our community, celebrate the Mason High School Class of 2025, and offer practical home maintenance tips to help you plan ahead. We continue to include Kids Scoop, games, and the popular hidden object giveaway, which encourage reader engagement.
Looking forward, our next edition will feature the annual Mason Business Directory. If you’re a new business or need to update your listing, now is the perfect time to reach out. Our publications are delivered through Every Door Direct Mail and offer a more affordable advertising option than creating your own mailing. Plus, people often keep the directory issue and refer to it all year long.
We’ve heard from community members that print publications continue to serve a vital role in communities like Mason. For older residents, new movers, and households without consistent internet access, receiving community updates in print ensures no one is left out of the loop.
We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed creating it. Our goal is to spark local pride, encourage neighborly engagement, and help residents discover the people, places, and businesses that make Mason unique.
Stay Connected
Visit us at TotalLocal.com/Mason or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/TotalLocalMason. If you have a recipe, photo, or story idea to share, email info@totallocal.com or call 517-663-2405. We’d love to hear from you.
Thank you for being part of the Total Local Mason community.
Teresa Miller President • Publisher
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Teresa Miller President • Publisher 734-845-2421 tmiller@totallocal.com
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CONGRATULATIONS MASON HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2025
Owen Durham Adaway
Jakob Evans Adolphson
Shelby Marie Algate
Hannah Louise Anderson
Jayson Josiah Anderson
Maddox Oberon Armour
Antonio Ignacio Arnett
Matthew Lawrence Ausel
Kristine Lynn Backus
Emma Jean Bailey
Lucy May Baker
Rylee Rose Balaker
Reese Marie Ball
Wyatt Michael Ball
McKenzie Renee Ballard
Daniel James Barth
Jonathan Lee Batdorff
Avery Jalyn Beach
Hailey Lynn Blackshear
Johnathan David Bolton
Novah Jane Bowen
Megan Elizabeth Bozung
Liam Patrick Dee Bradford
Aiden Allen Edward Bradsher
Ella Grace Branch
Karlie Ray Brandt
Brayden Tyler Braughton
Nathaniel Ryan Brooks
Kendall Marie Brown
Skyler Jordan Buck
Jayci Nicolle Burkhart
Cooper James Byrum
Mathew Brooks Stone
Caltrider Jackson Aiden Cargill
Teagan William Carl
Cason Jay Carswell
Mckayla Marie Chaney
Benjamin Joseph Chouinard
Ashley Breanna Corbett
Nicolas Mason Cordano
Sam William Corey
Rowyn Leigh Cortez
Aidan John Coulter
Laine Cherylin Crawford
Cooper David Cross
Caylin Louise Cutter
Aidan Michael Daenzer
Sophia Marie Davis
Gabriel Benjamin De La Fuente
Colin Andrew Denny
Aimee Jaid Depew
Logan Howard Doerr
Macy Ryan Domrase
Alexander Harold Doneth
Joshua William Dys
Hunter James Fanslau
Kayleigh Joanne Fiszer
Alaina Renae Flanders
Dane Jameson Floyd
Alethea Anne Foster
Avery Dalene Fraga
Evelyn Jaislee Fry
Samuel Wolfrik Furton
Talan Joseph Gardner
Madalyn Hope Gleason
Christopher Donald Goins
Jenna Elizabeth Goins
Jillian Christine Gould
Collin Lee Grant
Jolee Catherine Graves
Ryan Patrick Greathouse
Ava Grace Greenlee
Kaelin Marie Griffin
Colton Matthew Grimwood
Owen Robert Gustafson
Chellis Marshall Hall
Kyler Matthew Brian Hamel
Gabriella Sienna Hanover
Ava Michelle Hauser
Isabel Ann Hauser
Travis Walker Hayhoe
Jaydin Leah Haynes
Colin Jeremiah Haynie
Sarah Kathryn Hebert
Max David Hendrickson
Ava Margaret Hensley
Cassidy Kaylynn Henson
Landon Carson Hoffman
Kaleb Thomas Hollenbeck
Madison Elise Hon
Darious Dejuan Horne
Brooklyn Marie Houser-Stanton
Mariah Alaine Howard
Jalan Darrell Lee Howell
Bryce Jaymz Huguelet
Amelia Gabriella Jackett
Breslin Gary Jacob-Croley
Kobe Mitchell Jacquart
Blendi Jahiri
Samuel Riley Jaskowski
Abigail Lynn Johanson
Lindsey May Jolley
Marissa Marie Jones
Gavin Jeffrey Kellogg
Riley Anne Kerschke
Anthony James Kilgore
Devlin Gage King
Avery Sophia Kirschensteiner
Jared Lee Kline
Aubrey Morgan Kolberg
Elizabeth Grace Koppin
Anthony Naskov Kouzmanov
Kyler Casimir Kowalski
Leah Grace Suzanne Kruger
Jennifer Helen Laclear
Emme Corynn LaLonde
Evie Isabel Ducker Lamb
Benjamin Clayton Lanford-Swain
Eh Ter Lar
Lucas James Latimer
Tori Brielle Lator
Jennah Therese Lattig
Kaidance Marie LaVigne
Elizabeth Grace Leibrand
Sabrina Tida Leifker
Valton Limani
Josiah David Linsley
McKenzie Elizabeth Lockwood
Colin Kenneth Lomax
Landon Lee Lucas
Taylor LeeAnn Lukavsky
Tate Michael Lyons
Chaase Tanner Makley
Britt Andrew Marshall
Aubrey Marie Martin
Isabel Martinez
Katelyn Jayne McCann
Brooke Skye McClure
Conner Matthew McCormick
Brody Thomas McDonald
Erin Madison Mehan
Elizabeth Dean Meninga
Amelia Morgan Messier
Abigail Donna Meyers
Vance Bryson Miller
Donavon Lee Minnaar
CONGRATULATIONS MASON HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2025
Izabelle Kaydon Mitchell
Wyatt Allen Molnar
Caden Alexander Moore
Derek Wayne Moran
Desimis James Morgan
Charlotte Vera Motcheck
Layla Elise Mulka
Lumine Mumby
Isabel Marion Muschong
Riley Khensani Ngubeni
Joan Anna Nguyen
Grace Joelle O’Berry
Tyler Wolfe Oberlin
Lucas Anthony Orlando
Kortney Jean Osborn
Nolan James Osbun
Jackson Thomas Page
Alexander Wrigley Palmer
Noah Christopher Parrish
Isabella Rose Patterson
Aryana Kay Peterson
Toby Lynn Pickering
Sarah Alexis Pluff
Gessica Ann Portice
Gavin James Prelesnik
Skyler Lee Prosser
Keira Nicole Redman
Scot Daniel Reinecke
Teagan Pamela Remacle
Eliana Ruth Richardson
Luke Edward Richmond
Jayden Paul Roach
Sydney Marie Roche
Dominic William Rodriguez
Jaden Rodriguez
Chandler Gary Glenn Rogers
Taylor Makenzie Rowe
Clara Jean Rue
Mariana Isabel Ruiz
Ava Kay Ruster
Hannah Anne Sanders
Jake Reed Sanders
Lilian Joy Sawyers
Hunter James Schaeffer
Audrey Ann Schmidt
Neilah Jade Sellen
DeKoda James Shaft
Jocelyn Jean Shattuck
Jenna Kaye Sheldon
Jacob David Shell
Matthew Charles Shoemaker
Tyler Fredrick Short
Bryce David Smith
Keating Robert Smith
Andrew David Stahle
Levi Cooper Stambaugh
Grayer Ray Stowers
Grace Louise Surato
Teagan Burke Taylor
Jesse James Taylor II
Michael Patrick Thomas
Ethan James Thompson
Kaelyn Marie Tindall
Isabelle Susanne Tostevin
Landen Michael Truax
Jackson Patrick Truman
Daniel Robert Tuttle
Zachary Nathan Tyler
Walker Aaron Van Halst
Kendall Jae VanderGiessen
Gavin Alexander VanKirk
Caleb Michael Vaughn
Landon James Veach
Caleb Patrick Vincent
Reece Matthew Vincent
David Ryan Ward
Joshua James Delbert
Welling Rory Bryce Wendt
Joshua Steven Wenzel
Dominick Lee Wetmore
Emma Shae Wilkinson
Collin Joseph Winters
Adam Matthew Wiseman
Blake Matthew Wojen
Kyleigh Elizabeth Woll
Tyler Daniel Wood
Connor Brady Worden
Aaron George Yergler
Vienna Grace Pastuszka Zechar
Ava Marie Ziegenhagen
A Bright Future: Mason High School’s Top Ten Percent Academic Achievers of the Class of 2025!
Congratulations to the graduates who ranked in the top 10% of Mason High School’s Class of 2025. Their dedication and academic achievement are a testament to years of hard work and perseverance. We wish them continued success as they take the next steps in their journey. Names appear below in alphabetical order.
Shelby Algate will enroll in the nursing program at Baker College to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing.
Jayson Anderson plans to attend Michigan Technological University in the fall to study mechanical engineering.
Maddox Armour plans to attend Hope College to study data science.
Reese Ball will attend the University of Michigan to pursue a career in engineering.
Wyatt Ball plans to attend the University of Olivet to pursue a degree in pre-medical studies. He will also be playing baseball during his time at the university.
Megan Bozung plans to attend Michigan State University to “do something with anatomy and physiology and possibly oncology.”
Jackson Cargill will attend Saginaw Valley State University to study chemistry.
Alexander Doneth plans to attend St. John Vianney College Seminary at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota to major in philosophy.
Alethea Foster will attend Taylor University and explore different areas of study.
Avery Fraga plans to attend Maine Maritime Academy to study marine sciences while continuing her swim career.
Ava Hensley will attend Michigan State University to study marketing in the fall.
Avery Kirschensteiner plans to study art history at Smith College and march in the UMass Minuteman Marching Band.
Lucas Latimer plans to major in engineering at Michigan State University.
Conner McCormick will be continuing his education and cross country career next year at Lansing Community College. From there, he plans to transfer to a four-year university to pursue a degree in computer science.
Riley Ngubeni will attend Michigan State University in the fall to study biology and English.
Sarah Pluff plans to attend the University of Michigan with the intent to major in biology.
Gessica Portice plans to attend Michigan State University to major in human biology and biomedical laboratory sciences.
Skyler Prosser plans to major in psychology at Brigham Young University in the fall.
Keira Redman plans to attend Michigan State University in the fall to study interior design.
Hannah Sanders will attend the University of Michigan in the fall to study environmental science.
Jocelyn Shattuck plans to attend Ferris State University in the fall to study business and to run track and cross country.
Matthew Shoemaker plans to attend Eastern Michigan University to study actuarial science.
Grace Surato plans to attend Davenport University to study human resources and to compete on their NCA Competitive Cheer Team and their STUNT Team.
Kendall VanderGiessen plans to study exercise science at Central Michigan University.
Blake Wojen plans to attend Michigan State University in the fall to pursue a computer science major.
Connor Worden will be starting his education at Lansing Community College to get his general credits and later transfer to Michigan State University to major in computer science.
Finding Belonging Close to Home: Local Service Clubs Help Us Thrive
by: Doug Klein and Teresa Miller
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook just how important it is to feel truly connected to others. We rush through busy schedules, manage multiple responsibilities, and interact more through screens than in person. Nonetheless, people are increasingly expressing a desire for belonging, meaning, and authentic community.
Research confirms what many instinctively know: human connection is essential to both emotional and physical health. The U.S. Surgeon General has identified loneliness and isolation as urgent public health concerns, linked to higher rates of heart disease, anxiety, and cognitive decline.
A Harvard University decades-long study on adult development found that meaningful relationships are the strongest predictor of lifelong happiness and well-being. Their findings reinforce a powerful truth: we are healthiest and happiest when we feel part of something larger than ourselves.
Across the country, more people are rediscovering that sense of connection in local community groups, especially service clubs. These organizations create opportunities not only to volunteer but to build lasting friendships and support networks. In towns like Mason, long-standing chapters of
Lions, Rotary, Kiwanis, and Optimists continue to play a vital role in bringing people together.
In Mason, the commitment to service shows up in lasting, hands-on efforts that make a real difference. It’s the kind of steady, behind-the-scenes work that not only helps meet local needs, but also creates a rhythm of service and camaraderie among members.
“Mason Kiwanis has been sponsoring the Red Cross blood drive every eight weeks for 67 years,” said Elaine Ferris, a longtime member of the club. “We take care of everything— setup, staffing, and takedown. Right now, it’s held at the Methodist Church on the first Thursday of even-numbered months while St. James Church is under renovation.”
Yet these clubs are more than their meetings or projects. They offer a place where neighbors become friends, where ideas are shared and put into action, and where members work side by side to strengthen the community. From coordinating food drives to organizing youth programs or local beautification efforts, service clubs give people the chance to make a difference and feel connected in the process.
Sociologist Robert Putnam, in his widely cited book Bowling Alone, documented the steady decline in civic engagement over the past several decades. He warned that when people stop participating in group activities, trust and cooperation begin to fade. Fortunately, this decline is not irreversible. Communities that invest in connection can become stronger, more resilient, and more vibrant.
For anyone feeling isolated or searching for a way to get more involved, attending a local service club meeting can be a simple but powerful first step. These gatherings are welcoming spaces where all are invited to contribute, learn, and belong.
Mason Rotary Club members at the 2025 annual duck race.
“You come to help others, but you end up helping yourself too,” said Doug Klein, a member of the Mason Lions Club. “There’s nothing like working together toward something that matters.”
By joining or supporting local service clubs, we don’t just give back, we reconnect. We build friendships, deepen our roots, and remind ourselves that we’re not alone. At a time when so many people are quietly searching for a deeper connection, local service clubs offer a path forward.
If you, a family member, or a friend is looking for more purpose, connection, or a fresh start, a local service club can be a meaningful place to begin. What starts as a simple step often leads to lasting relationships, a renewed sense of purpose, and the feeling of truly being at home. And, it’s not just a nice feeling; research shows that people who feel connected to others tend to be healthier, more resilient, and more satisfied with life.
When we build community, we also build strength— emotional, physical, and collective. Service clubs offer more than fellowship by helping people and communities thrive and by reminding us that connection isn’t just good for the soul, it’s vital for our well-being.
Mason’s local service clubs give students tens of thousands of dollars in scholarships every year. Twenty students received over $15,000 in scholarships from Mason Optimists in 2025.
Mason Rotary raises money for high school scholarships through their annual duck race.
MEET MASON’S SERVICE CLUBS
A look at four major organizations serving our community and the world.
Each of these clubs contributes to the well-being of Mason and invests in its future through a variety of community service projects, by hosting family-friendly events, and by awarding scholarships to Mason High School students each year.
KIWANIS INTERNATIONAL
Kiwanis has been serving children and communities since 1915. With 537,000 members worldwide across 85 countries, Kiwanis clubs contribute more than 18.5 million hours of service annually. Kiwanis clubs focus on improving the lives of children through service, education, and leadership development. Their projects range from sponsoring reading programs and school supplies to supporting food pantries and youth sports. Visit kiwanis.org.
Mason Kiwanis meets the 2nd & 4th Tuesday at noon at the Kiwanis Village Clubhouse.
LIONS CLUBS INTERNATIONAL
Founded in 1917, Lions Clubs are dedicated to serving others through a wide range of causes, with a historic emphasis on vision health. More than 1.4 million members in 48,000 clubs worldwide serve their communities through hands-on projects and humanitarian initiatives. In recent years, their mission has expanded
to include support for diabetes awareness, hunger relief, childhood cancer, disaster response, and environmental efforts. Visit lionsclubs.org.
Mason Lions meets the 2nd & 4th Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. at Bestsellers Extra for dinner.
OPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL
Since 1919, Optimist International has been committed to improving the lives of young people through service, mentorship, and opportunity. With nearly 70,000 members in 2,500 clubs, Optimists create positive change in their communities and reach more than six million youth each year. Their creed, “Bringing Out the Best in Youth, in Our Communities, and in Ourselves,” guides every effort to uplift and empower the next generation. Visit optimist.org
Mason Optimists meet Wednesdays at 6:30 a.m. at Bestsellers Extra.
ROTARY INTERNATIONAL
Founded in 1905, Rotary brings together neighbors, business owners, and community leaders to take action on pressing local and global challenges. With 1.2 million members in over 36,000 clubs, Rotary embodies the spirit of service with the motto, “Service Above Self”. Their work includes building schools, providing clean water, supporting maternal health, promoting peace, and leading efforts to end polio worldwide. Visit rotary.org.
Mason Rotary meets Thursdays at noon at Bestsellers Extra.
Mason’s many services clubs can be found at local, community events, like the annual Spring Fling Courthouse Show.
Support Your Community Magazine: Join Our Mission to Keep Our Community Connected
Community magazines like Total Local Mason play an essential role in bringing together local businesses, organizations, and residents, fostering a sense of connection and pride. A standout feature of Total Local Mason is the annual Business Directory issue, a go-to resource for local services, businesses, and organizations. In addition, our quarterly issues focus on topics such as Mason schools, local events, community updates, health and wellness, and holiday happenings. Total Local Mason is freely distributed through Every Door Direct Mail and made available at local businesses and retailers, but we rely on the support of the community to continue delivering this valuable resource.
Here’s how you can help keep this valuable resource alive:
1. Advertise with Us
Local businesses are the heart of Total Local Mason. By advertising, you not only reach thousands of local households, but also demonstrate your commitment to the community. Advertisers help us cover production costs and ensure our magazine remains a free resource. Your ad makes a difference!
2. Submit Content
We welcome article ideas, event announcements, photos, and recipes from residents and organizations. Sharing your news and experiences enhances the value of Total Local Mason and keeps it relevant to those we serve. Your voice helps shape the narrative of our community.
3. Support Our Advertisers
The businesses featured in our magazine contribute directly to keeping it free for the community. When you patronize these local businesses, you’re not only supporting them, but you’re also ensuring that Total Local Mason continues to be published and distributed to your doorstep.
4. Join our Local Media Community Builder Program!
While Total Local Mason is free, rising production costs make it ever challenging to maintain. You can contribute by purchasing an annual voluntary subscription or by becoming a sponsor. Your contribution will directly support the production and distribution of the magazine and you’ll receive an extra copy of each publication to share with friends and family.
By joining in our mission, you help preserve a platform that celebrates local stories, events, and businesses. Together, we can keep our community strong and vibrant.
Become a Community Builder:
Please fill in the form below and mail it with your payment to: Total Local, 118 W Oak St Ste 202, Mason MI 48854
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in
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Total Local offers a wide variety of marketing services including website design & hosting, social media management, email marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), and so much more! For a limited time, receive ONE MONTH FREE when you sign up for website hosting or social media management. Call our office at 517-663-2405 to set up an appointment with our marketing strategist today!
Calling Mason Writers & Community Voices!
Total Local Mason is seeking guest contributors! We’re inviting local residents, students, and professionals to write about community events, local sports, school news, local government, and Mason history. Articles should be 500-800 words and include at least one photo. Published submissions will appear in our print magazine, digital edition, website, and across our social media pages — helping you share your voice with the entire community.
REACH MORE CUSTOMERS AND STRETCH THAT ADVERTISING DOLLAR!
TOTAL LOCAL’s 10 Community Magazines & Directories cover 24 mid-Michign communities, with Every Door Direct Mail delivery to 125,000+ households. That’s worth 250,000+ initial impressions! Interested? Contact us at 517-663-2405 or info@totallocal.com for more information.
Purchase any display ad and receive a FREE BOLD LISTING under the heading of your choice in any magazine. That’s a value of $120!
The Well-Maintained Home: Stay
Ahead of Repairs for Added Comfort, Safety, and Savings
by: Teresa Miller
Buying a home is a major milestone and caring for your home is a long-term commitment. Beyond the monthly to-do lists and seasonal upkeep, every home has an ongoing cycle of maintenance. These bigger tasks don’t come around every year, but when they do, they matter.
If you’ve recently purchased a home in Mid-Michigan, or if you’re settling into one you’ve owned for years, it helps to understand the bigger picture of home maintenance. With some forethought and a little planning, you can stay ahead of wear and tear, protect your investment, and enjoy a home that’s comfortable and dependable for decades to come.
Keep in mind that Michigan’s climate plays a role in your home’s ongoing maintenance requirements. Freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snowfall, and humidity all affect the lifespan of materials. What holds up in a dry southern climate may wear more quickly in Mid-Michigan.
USE YOUR HOME INSPECTION AS A STARTING POINT
When you bought your home, you likely received a professional home inspection. Many people set this report aside after the closing process, but it’s actually one of the most useful tools you have. That report tells a story about your home’s condition at the time of purchase. It includes the estimated age of major systems like your roof, furnace, and water heater, and often points out areas to watch.
Instead of treating it as a checklist for immediate repairs, think of your inspection report as a long-range maintenance guide. Look for notes like “monitor,” “showing signs of wear,” or “near the end of its lifespan.” Those clues help you plan what needs attention in the next five to ten years, and what might come up further down the road.
THINK IN TIMEFRAMES, NOT JUST TASKS
Some home projects are monthly or seasonal, but others show up on a longer cycle. By understanding when certain components of your home typically need replacement, you can avoid being caught off guard. You can also budget ahead for the bigger expenses that come with the aging of your home. While not exhaustive, the list below includes many of the larger maintenance items that arise over the long term. Be sure to check with your home inspection report or with local home services professionals for advice unique to your home.
Every 3 to 5 Years
• Refresh mulch beds and amend compacted garden soil
• Trim or reshape mature trees to prevent storm damage and maintain structure
• Reseal decks and porches, especially wood surfaces
• Touch up exterior paint on trim, doors, and other exposed areas
• Inspect and touch up garage doors and thresholds
Every 5 to 10 Years
• Reseal asphalt driveways
• Repaint or restain wood siding and trim
• Replace water heater
• Refresh weather stripping and caulking
• Refinish hardwood floors
• Replace aging shrubs or perennials that have outgrown their space or lost vigor
• Regrade yard or lawn areas where settling, erosion, or poor drainage develops
• Remove invasive or dying trees that pose a risk to the home or utility lines
Every 10 to 20 Years
• Replace roof shingles
• Upgrade furnaces and air conditioners
• Replace older windows
• Repair or replace gutters
• Replace major appliances
Within 20 to 30 Years or More
• Replace original siding
• Update plumbing or electrical systems in an older home
• Address foundation or structural issues if needed
• Replace or repair septic systems
• Invest in major hardscaping updates such as patios, retaining walls, or walkways
DON’T OVERLOOK TREE MAINTENANCE
Landscaping often gets attention in the first few years of homeownership, but mature trees deserve special consideration as part of your long-term maintenance plan. Especially in Mid-Michigan, where storms, wet soil, and rapid tree growth are common, regular tree evaluations should be a part of your home maintenance schedule.
“Tree care isn’t just about reacting after damage is done — it’s about planning ahead,” said Justin Brummette, owner of Big Kid Tree Worx. “A tree that’s too close to a structure, showing signs of decay, or suffering from poor drainage can become a costly hazard. In Michigan’s fast-growing conditions, trimming every few years is essential.”
Brummette also notes that removing one tree can change the wind dynamics on your property. “Removing a tree might expose others to winds they’ve never faced before, so smart removal and maintenance matters. And if a tree does fall on your roof, insurance won’t step in until it’s gone and the roof is visible. So, act quickly, remove the tree, and get the roof tarped before more damage is done.”
It’s smart to schedule professional inspections and not delay when a tree is showing signs of distress. Proactive maintenance is always more affordable, and less stressful, than emergency removal after a storm.
BUDGETING AND PLANNING AHEAD
Experts often recommend that homeowners set aside one to three percent of their home’s value each year for maintenance. One percent may be sufficient for newer homes or those in excellent condition, while older homes
“... act quickly, remove the tree, and get the roof tarped before more damage is done.”
– Justin Brummette, owner Big Kid Tree Worx
or those with deferred maintenance may require more than three percent.
Having a long-term maintenance fund can help you handle big expenses like a new furnace or roof without added stress. It also allows you to take care of things on your own timeline rather than waiting until something breaks.
USE THE RIGHT MATERIALS AND METHODS
Proper maintenance isn’t just about keeping things clean or in working order. It’s also about using the right materials and following recommended care instructions. These choices can make future remodeling projects smoother and help you avoid costly surprises later.
“I highly recommend people to not use Murphy’s Oil Soap to clean their hardwood floors. Stick to the properly formulated wood floor cleaners,” said Nik Morehouse, owner of Morehouse Improvements LLC. “Contaminants from using the wrong cleaners can wreak havoc on the results when you have them refinished.”
Using the wrong products — like interior paint on exterior trim or construction adhesive in place of proper caulk — may
seem minor, but they can cause long-term issues. Over time, these materials may peel, crack, or fail to hold up under changing conditions. Choosing the right products from the start helps protect your home and can save time, frustration, and money when it’s time to remodel.
PRIDE IN A HOME WELL CARED FOR
A well-maintained home is more than a financial asset. It’s a place that feels safe, grounded, and comfortable. Planning ahead for long-term maintenance helps protect that feeling, while also preserving the structure and systems that keep your home running smoothly.
This approach is about being thoughtful, prepared, and proud of the way you care for your space. That includes using the right materials for the job, following proper guidelines, and making choices that support your home’s long-term health. You don’t need to tackle everything at once. Focus on what matters most right now, use your inspection report as a guide, and check in with your plan each year. The care you invest today helps your home remain strong, efficient, and inviting for many years to come.
Use properly formulated wood cleaners on hardwood floors for the best refinishing results. (Photo courtesy of Morehouse Improvements, LLC)
Justin & Tobi Brummette with Big Kid Tree Worx
Nik Morehouse with Morehouse Improvements, LLC
Flower Frenzy GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY!
Join our exciting flower hunt! We’ve hidden three flowers throughout this issue (see image to the right), and they could be anywhere, so be sure to check each page carefully! To enter our gift card giveaway, find all three flowers, note the location (page number), and describe where they are on the page. You could win a gift card valued up to $150 from Bad Brewing!
A winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries and notified by email or phone, so don’t forget your contact information! We’ll publish the winner’s name online and in our next issue. Email your entry to info@totallocal.com or mail it to Total Local, 118 W Oak St Ste 202, Mason MI 48854. Make sure to include your name, address, and phone number. No purchase necessary, must be 18 years or older to enter, and only one entry per person. Entries must be received by 5:00pm on August 31, 2025. Have fun and good luck!
FLOWER FRENZY! ENTRY FORM - Total Local Mason
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CONTACT INFORMATION:
Name:
Please ensure all information is filled out accurately to be eligible for the gift card giveaway. Email the information above to Total Local at info@totallocal.com or mail your form to Total Local, 118 W Oak St Ste 202, Mason MI 48854. Entries must be received by August 31, 2025. Good luck! 1 2 3
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WORD LIST WORD LIST
BEANS
BLOOM
BUD
COMPOST CORN
FERTILIZER
GLOVES
HOE
IRRIGATION
MARIGOLD
MULCH
PEAS
PLANTING
POLLINATE
RAKE
ROOTS ROSES
SEEDLING
SEED PACKET
SHOVEL
SOIL SPRINKLER SPROUT SQUASH
TOMATO TRELLIS
TROWEL WEEDS WHEELBARROW ZUCCHINI
Proctecting Children in a Digital Age
Provided by: Family Features
Keeping a watchful eye on your kids requires an increasing level of tech savvy many parents find intimidating. Not only are your kids vulnerable to bad actors online, but your family’s personal information could be at risk, as well.
Learn how to protect your children and family in this digital age with these tips:
ELEMENTARY-AGE CHILDREN
• Encourage open communication. Have conversations about what your kids see and do online and talk with them about potential dangers. Avoid lecturing in favor of an open exchange of information.
• Make their inherent interest in privacy work in your favor. Kids in this age group, particularly toward the middle school years, understand the concept of privacy and value it immensely. Use that context to help them understand what goes online is there to stay. Talk about what kinds of information should always be kept private, including identifying details like addresses and social security numbers.
• Stay on alert. Not all apps are completely safe (even the ones you can access from trusted stores) and not all filters are foolproof. Keep close tabs on what your kids are downloading by reading comments and reviews, and regularly monitoring what kind of content they see.
MIDDLE SCHOOL AND HIGH SCHOOL KIDS
• Continue talking about privacy. You can never have too many conversations about privacy. What seems like harmless sharing on social media can be quite revealing. For example, frequent posts about visits to a favorite store or restaurant can allow a predator to begin tracking behavior patterns that make your child a target. It’s also important for kids to understand how their privacy settings work. For example, settings that allow exposure to friends of friends make their visibility to strangers much broader than they may realize.
• Help manage their online reputation. Behaviors that once resulted in a day or two of hallway chatter can now live forever. Documenting mischief online is only fun until it spills over into real life and everyone sees those mistakes in full color - including prospective future employers.
• Be clear about your position on bullying. From the safe distance of a screen, it’s easier for kids (and adults) to say things they’d never say in person. Teach your kids to handle problems constructively offline and avoid engaging in attacks on others through social media, email and other platforms.
COLLEGE STUDENTS
* Reinforce the risks. Once they’re on their own, kids may feel more liberated to make their own choices online. However, college students are easy prey for identity theft and worse. Remind them what’s at stake if they fail to protect their identity and private information, like where they live and what they do on a regular basis.
* Teach smart practices. With all the independence that comes with college life, this is an ideal time for your student to take personal responsibility for his or her online security, including learning about virus protection, updating software, avoiding scams and backing up data.
If you’re looking for more practical advice for everyday family matters, visit eLivingtoday.com.
WE’RE LOOKING FOR ENTERPRISING
INDIVIDUALS
TO JOIN OUR TEAM!
Are you an experienced sales professional, looking for work-life balance and a collaborative, supportive team? Do you enjoy exploring Michigan’s small towns and networking with small business owners?
Total Local is a full-service marketing agency, publisher, and printer. In business for over 30 years, our office is located in Mason, Michigan. We are currently seeking talented sales representatives. If you are interested in a position, please read the job description by scanning the QR code and email a cover letter and resume to info@totallocal.com.
Get Your Marketing Running On All Cylinders with Total Local!
At Total Local, we specialize in fueling the success of small businesses, municipalities, and community organizations. Our comprehensive advertising, printing, and marketing services ensure that your message reaches the right audience, every time.
WHY CHOOSE TOTAL LOCAL?
• Digital Mastery: Enhance your online presence with our digital advertising, website hosting and development, social media management, and email marketing services.
• Printing Perfection: Need business cards, brochures, or flyers? We deliver top-notch print materials that make a lasting impression.
ALL-AROUND MARKETING ON MAINSTREET
• Advertising Excellence: From eye-catching ads to strategic placements in our Total Local community publications, we make sure your brand stands out.
We’re passionate about supporting local businesses and community leaders. Our hands-on approach ensures that your marketing efforts are not just effective, but also personal and community-focused.
Let us help you rev up your marketing engine! With Total Local, your business will shine on Mainstreet and beyond. Contact us today to get started: 517-663-2405 or info@totallocal.com
PUZZLE SOLUTION
INDEX TO ADVERTISERS
