COMMUNITIES
Connecting Communities
The Chronicle Small Business SpotlightBehind the Lens: The Story of Beige Planet Photography with Alfred Laurence
Born and raised in East Lansing, Michigan, Alfred Laurence has always been deeply connected to his community. Eight years ago, he discovered a passion for photography that has since become the driving force of his creative life. Starting with a simple Samsung digital camera, Alfred captured the world around him with a fresh and compelling perspective. However, a home break-in resulted in the loss of his first camera, nearly derailing his budding photography journey.
But the story didn’t end there. Two photographers, one from Atlanta and the other from Chicago, took notice of Alfred's talent. Their encouragement and support led to the launch of a GoFundMe campaign that allowed him to purchase his first professional camera. With their guidance, Alfred honed his skills and expanded his artistry, transforming his vision into a craft that inspires and captivates.
Michael T. Pugh, president and CEO of the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), returned to his alma mater to deliver the winter commencement address to the latest crop of students graduating from Eastern Michigan University (EMU). Click here for link to speech starting at 55:33
In addition to his role as a keynote speaker, Pugh also received an honorary doctoral de-
gree in Commercial Science at the ceremony.
A native of Detroit, Pugh earned a bachelor’s degree in health care administration at EMU, making him the first person in his immediate family to graduate from college. He attended the university while simultaneously working full-time as a bank teller to
The Legacy of Dr. Mar tin Luther King Jr
Black History
The Necessity Of Black History Month
BY J. DOMONICK DIXIE
February is Black History Month in the US. It's a time to celebrate the achievements of African-Americans, as well as recognize their contributions to the country and the world. Throughout history, they have made a significant impact on society.
Black History Month is a time to recognize the various injustices and struggles faced by African-Americans in the US. Although progress has been made in fighting for civil rights, discrimination and racial inequality sadly still remain a major issue in the country. By shining a light on these issues, we can help raise awareness and improve the lives of all people.
Through Black History Month, we can celebrate the contributions of African-Americans to the development of
our nation's cultural identity. From art and music to literature and cuisine, their contributions have made a significant impact on society. It is also a time to recognize the contributions of all indi-
viduals to the common culture.
Throughout Black History Month, it is important that children and adults learn about the significant contributions African-Americans have
Bessie Coleman: Flew high above barriers as the first licensed Black Pilot
Although Coleman was not recognized as an aviation pioneer prior to her death, she absolutely was. Coleman was the first licensed Black pilot in the world. She attended flight school in France in 1919. Though history books may have favored Amelia Earhart and the Wright brothers, Coleman paved the way for a new generation of diverse fliers like the Tuskegee airmen, Blackbirds, and Flying Hobos.
QUICK FACTS:
Born : January 26, 1892, Atlanta, TX
Died : April 30, 1926, Jacksonville, FL
Siblings : Elois Coleman Patterson, Georgia Coleman, Isaiah Coleman, Nilus Coleman, Walter Coleman, John Coleman
Education : Langston University (1910–1911)
Full name : Elizabeth Coleman
Parents : Susan Coleman, George Coleman
Nationality : American
made to the development of the US. By learning about their struggles and triumphs, we can make a better understanding of the country's complex history. This knowledge can also help promote empathy and compassion for everyone.
Throughout history, African-Americans have excelled in various fields. Black individuals have contributed to the development of culture and human knowledge, and we should celebrate their achievements to inspire the next generation. Doing so can help create a more inclusive society.
As a community, we should celebrate and honor the achievements of African-Americans. Throughout Black History Month, we can participate in various activities and events to promote awareness and appreciation of Black culture and history.
BWL Customer Open Houses Offer Help for Understanding Utility Bills
The Lansing Board of Water & Light (BWL) will host two open houses for customers with questions related to their utility usage and understanding their bill. BWL customer service representatives will be on hand to individually review customer bills and answer questions on energy consumption, along with Hometown Energy Savers® experts who can schedule a free home energy visit to any BWL residential electric customer. BWL will also give presentations hourly throughout the events on understanding your bill to help customers better navigate account details.
“Listening to our customers is an important part of providing reliable and affordable utility services across our service territory. We heard our community and their concerns with bills, and we want to provide answers and support,” said BWL General Manager Dick Peffley. “We invite customers to attend and get help in understanding their BWL bill and information on the many programs we offer to lower energy costs.”
The open houses are free to the public and no pre-registration is necessary. These events will be held:
Tuesday, January 28, 10am-1pm at Foster Community Center, 200 N. Fos-
ter Ave., Lansing
Wednesday, February 5, 4-7pm at Alfreda Schmidt Community Center, 5825 Wise Rd., Lansing These events are part of BWL’s “Bright Ideas” series, which connects customers with advice, tips and resources to better understand their utility bill and manage their energy usage. For more information, visit lbwl.com.
LCC Foundation seeks Distinguished Alumni nominations
LANSING, Mich., Jan. 23, 2025 – The LCC Foundation has opened the nomination process for the 2025 Distinguished Alumni. Nominations will be accepted on the Foundation website through Sunday, March 2.
Since 1991, LCC has honored an outstanding alumnus who has excelled in their career and service to their community. Nominations are accepted from family members, coworkers, former classmates, or anyone with knowledge of a nominee’s achievements. Self-nominations are also accepted.
The Distinguished Alumni are selected by the LCC Foundation Alumni Committee and representatives of Lansing
Community College.
Richard Peffley was the 2024 Distinguished Alumni. He graduated from Lansing Community College in 1982 with an associate degree in science. Peffley is currently the general manager of the Lansing Board of Water and Light Board.
The 2025 Distinguished Alumni will be recognized at LCC’s commencement ceremony on Friday, May 16, at the Jack Breslin Center on the campus of Michigan State University.
For more information on the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award, please contact the Alumni Committee at Lansing Community College Foundation at 517-483-1985 or foundation@lcc.edu.
The Ultimate Guide to Date Night in Greater Lansing: 5 Unforgettable Ideas
Looking for the perfect date night in Greater Lansing this winter?
Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, celebrating an anniversary, or simply spending quality time with your partner, Lansing offers plenty of cozy and memorable options. Here are five fantastic date night ideas to inspire your next outing.
1. Enjoy a Local Foodie Adventure
Lansing’s vibrant dining scene is perfect for food-loving couples. Start your evening with a farm-to-table experience at Red Haven, known for its creative small plates and cozy ambiance. For a more casual vibe, grab a pizza and craft beer at Ellison Brewery + Spirits. Don’t forget to share a decadent dessert like the crème brûlée at The Creole Burger Bar & Southern Kitchen to cap off the evening.
2. Catch a Live Show or Movie
Add a cultural touch to your date night by attending a performance at the Lansing Symphony Orchestra or Wharton Center for Performing Arts. If you’re in the mood for something cinematic, head to Celebration Cinema Lansing and
cozy up in their recliner seating. For an extra special night, opt for their VIP experience with food and drinks delivered to your seat.
3. Explore Old Town Lansing
For a mix of artsy charm and historic vibes, spend an
evening in Old Town Lansing. Browse art galleries and quirky shops, grab dinner at Pablo’s Old Town Mexican Restaurant, and indulge in dessert at Sweet Encounter Bakery & Cafe. Check local listings for live music or seasonal events in Old Town to add even more excitement to your night.
4. Take a Stroll Through the MSU Gardens (Weather Permitting)
If the weather allows, a romantic stroll through the W.J. Beal Botanical Garden or the 4-H Children's Garden on the Michigan State University campus is a serene and peaceful option. Even during the winter months, the gardens offer unique beauty and quiet moments to connect. Consider bringing a thermos of hot cocoa to make it even more magical.
5. Unwind with a Couples’ Activity
Try something fun and new together! Sign up for a couples’ pottery class at the Lansing Makers Network, or indulge in a wine-tasting experience at Burgdorf’s Winery. For an exciting and interactive option, challenge yourselves to solve puzzles at Escape 20/20, where teamwork and laughter are guaranteed.
Bonus Tip: Embrace the Season
Make the most of winter by planning a snowy adventure. Bundle up and enjoy ice skating at Suburban Ice Lansing, or take a winter hike at Fenner Nature Center. For something festive, check out holiday light displays or seasonal markets happening in the area. No matter how chilly it gets, Greater Lansing offers plenty of ways to keep the romance alive this winter. Pick one of these ideas to create a memorable and heartwarming date night. Happy dating!
Unsung Heroes: Uncovering Lansing's Local Champions in Community Initiatives
Lansing, Michigan, is a place where strong community ties weave a vibrant tapestry of support and kindness. Among its residents are dedicated individuals tirelessly working to uplift their neighbors and strengthen their community. They tackle important issues like food insecurity, educational challenges, and environmental concerns. In this post, we'll explore the powerful stories of these local heroes and highlight how their selfless contributions are making a real difference in the Greater Lansing area.
The Heart of the Community
Lansing’s heart beats with the efforts of individuals dedicated to serving others. Whether through organizing events, providing food, or mentoring youth, these unsung champions represent the essence of community spirit. Often affiliated with non-profits or grassroots organizations, they unite people, resources, and advocacy to create lasting change. In times when the spotlight often shines on well-known figures, recognizing these local champions is crucial for appreciating what truly nurtures a community.
Feeding the Hungry: The Role of Local Food Banks
Food insecurity remains a pressing issue in Lansing, making local food banks vital lifelines for hundreds of families. A notable local hero in this arena is a food bank manager who has mobilized over 300 volunteers in recent years to coordinate food drives and community meal events.
A well-organized food bank shelf ready to serve the community.
Today, Alfred is the owner of Beige Planet Photography, a growing business that reflects his passion and versatility. Armed with Canon 5D Mark II and III cameras, as well as a Sony a6000, he photographs just about anything. From capturing the energy of local bands to documenting community events like the Lansing Harmony Celebration, Alfred’s work is as diverse as it is dy-
Why Celebrate National Backward Day?
Life can sometimes feel repetitive, but National Backward Day invites us to break the mold. By doing things differently, we challenge our routines and discover new joys in the simple act of being playful. It’s a day to embrace imperfection, let go of expec-
namic. His talent has been recognized globally, with his photography featured in 29 exhibitions around the world and published 9 times.
In addition to his artistic projects, Alfred is expanding his portfolio to include real estate photography and offers an online store for purchasing prints and licensing images. Prints can be found on his website at ajlaurence.
picfair.com.
tations, and share laughter with friends and family.
Share the Backward Fun!
Join the celebration and let your creativity shine. Post your backward outfits, upside-down selfies, and reversed routines using the hashtag #BackwardDay.
Though he works in retail during the day, photography remains Alfred’s true passion. His dedication to broadening his subject matter and improving his craft is evident in every image he captures. The Chronicle News is proud to feature Alfred’s work, including his contributions to MSU Women’s Basketball articles, and we’re excited to
Together, we can make today a unique and unforgettable experience!
So, what are you waiting for?
Let’s flip the script, celebrate life’s quirks, and enjoy National Backward Day to the fullest. Here’s to making the most of a perfectly imperfect day!
have him covering events for us moving forward.
To contact Alfred for pricing and bookings, you can email him at beigeplanetphotography@yahoo.com. Whether you’re looking for a unique print, professional event coverage, or captivating real estate photography, Alfred Laurence of Beige Planet Photography is a name to remember.
put himself through school, handling a sometimes-difficult balancing act that has impacted both his personal and professional world view.
“At times it felt like a heavy weight, and possibly, some might even say a burden,” he told the graduates, “but today, what I have come to understand, is what a reward it truly was to have had the opportunity to build my skills and to also be a part of something incredibly special at this wonderful place of higher education.”
Pugh spoke at the December 14 ceremony, using his own story to inspire the current class of graduates to “build authentic relationships, be present for your journey, and remain in a constant state of learning.”
In his speech, Pugh also shared a lesson he lovingly attributed to the single mother who raised him, recalling a meaningful conversation between them.
“I shared with her that was struggling at the time because I didn't feel
that the work I was doing was actually making a difference. I had 1,200 colleagues who were part of my business line, but there weren't many people that looked like me in the rooms that I was in, and the conversations were seldom ever about the communities and the people,” said Pugh. “And so she asked me, ‘Do you believe that you can make a difference?’ My answer was yes. She asked if I believed there was any part of the work that I was doing that mattered? And I said yes. And she said, ‘Well, if something matters, never give up.’”
That perseverance has carried him through a career that spans more than three decades. Pugh has been a leading advocate for creating economic paths to prosperity and generational wealth building, most recently in his position at LISC, where he has overseen the deployment of more than $2.4 billion to bridge gaps in affordable housing, small business growth, health, education, safety and jobs.
Prior to leading LISC, Pugh served as president and CEO of Harlem-based Carver Federal Savings Bank, the nation’s largest publicly traded African American-operated bank, for more than a decade. His previous experience includes stints as a senior vice president at both Capital One Bank and Citizens Financial Group.
“EMU is a special place for me because it represents the intersection for higher education and the opportunity to advance professionally,” said Pugh. “I’ve developed skills here that I've been able to carry forward throughout my career and I am grateful for the opportunity to come back and share my experiences with my fellow EMU alumni.”
Specific to the Michigan area, since 1990, LISC Detroit has invested more than $200 million in Detroit's neighborhoods to create good places to live, do business, and play. It successfully coordinates and invests resources that
contribute to sustainable neighborhood revitalization and community growth, building positive environments to ensure that all residents of any income level have the opportunities and tools to build assets, become part of the economy and participate in the benefits of their communities.
About LISC
LISC is one of the nation’s largest community development organizations, dedicated to forging vibrant, resilient communities where people and places can thrive. LISC’s mission is to close systemic gaps in health, wealth, and opportunity, advancing racial equity across America. Since its founding in 1979, LISC has invested $32 billion to create more than 506,000 affordable homes, develop 82.5 million square feet of commercial and community space, and help tens of thousands of people secure employment and financial stability. For more, visit https://www.lisc.org/
WE CARE FOR YOUR HEART
YOU CARE FOR YOUR FAMILY
Your family counts on you every day. That’s why McLaren is here to help you prioritize your heart health. From advanced diagnostics to the latest surgical procedures, our cardiovascular specialists offer everything you need to keep your heart strong—for yourself and for those who depend on you most.
Your family counts on you every day. That’s why McLaren is here to help you prioritize your heart health. From advanced diagnostics to the latest surgical procedures, our cardiovascular specialists offer everything you need to keep your heart strong—for yourself and for those who depend on you most.
Book Nooks Bring Joy to Young Patients at McLaren Greater Lansing
With the help of local donations and community partners, the McLaren Greater Lansing Foundation is making it easier for families with young children when they visit the hospital and doctors’ offices when needing care with the newest installment of book nooks and child-friendly furniture.
“Our primary goal at the McLaren Greater Lansing Foundation is to support our community needs when it comes to access to the best health care options that are available right here in our hometown,” said Lynn Griffor, chief experience officer and vice president of philanthropy at McLaren Greater Lansing. “We’re always looking for ways to prioritize patient comfort, and that includes providing resources for our young
families as well while they are waiting for their care.”
With the idea of providing book material that primarily focuses on health-related topics and emotions for young children who may need a little comfort and distraction when in a hospital or doctors’ office setting, the McLaren Greater Lansing Foundation reached out to Ingham Intermediate School District (Ingham ISD) to help bring this idea to fruition.
“Ingham ISD loves all things literacy, so we were thrilled to be approached by the Foundation about this initiative and we were able to find some grant funding to purchase the books,” said Emily Brewer,
HOMEOWNERSHIP IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK.
Bringing Inclusion to Financial Literacy
FAMILY, FOOD AND A SIDE OF TEA!“COOKING SESSIONS WITH TAMAR & MS. E”BRINGS THE FLAVOR!
SILVER SPRING, MD – January 21, 2025Get ready to spice up your screens with the new series “Cooking Sessions with Tamar & Ms. E.” Join the dynamic duo of award-winning superstar Tamar Braxton and her mother, Evelyn (affectionately known as Ms. E), as they turn up the heat in the kitchen serving up fabulous looks and delicious dishes. With years of cooking together and friendly competition over who makes the best family recipes, this pair brings their signature humor and charm to every episode. “Cooking Sessions with Tamar & Ms. E” premieres Wednesday, March 26 at 9 PM ET/CT on CLEO TV.
Biblical Story "House of David" is Coming to Amazon Prime on February 27, 2025
HOUSE OF DAVID is directed and written by Jon Erwin (Jesus Revolution) and Jon Gunn (Ordinary Angels), and stars Michael Iskander as David who was cast following a four-month international search, and is fresh off his role in the Tony Award-winning musical "Kimberly Akimbo." The series also stars Ali Suliman (Jack Ryan, Arthur the King) as King Saul, Ayelet Zurer (Angels And Demons, Man Of Steel) as Saul’s trusted wife Queen Ahinoam, Stephen Lang (Avatar franchise, Don’t Breathe) as Samuel; Indy Lewis (Industry, King and Conqueror) as Mychal, Saul’s daughter, and Martyn Ford (Mortal Kombat 2, The Sandman) as Goliath.
Cooking Sessions with Tamar and Ms. E” is produced by Powerhouse Productions, with Rochelle Brown and Sonia Armstead serving as Executive Producers, and Kenneth Colbert as Senior Producer. Tamar Braxton also serves as an Executive Producer for Tamar Braxton Productions, and Evelyn Braxton. Austyn Biggers is the Senior Vice President of Programming and Production and Susan Henry is the VP, Original Programming and Production for CLEO TV.
For more information on “Cooking Sessions with Tamar & Ms. E” visit MyCLEO.tv and follow CLEO TV on Facebook, Instagram and X using the handle @mycleotv. Join the conversation by using the hashtags #TamarAndMsE. and #CookingSessions.
From the soulful recipes to the heartfelt conversations, Tamar and Ms. E keep it real–and fun by creating an experience that feels like an intimate, family gathering! They’re opening the doors to their Braxton family kitchen to celebrate life, laughs, and inspire fans with stories and flavors that honor their culture, family, and resilience. Make sure to tune in for the perfect blend of seasoning and smiles that will keep you coming back for seconds.
SYNOPSIS: HOUSE OF DAVID tells the story of the ascent of the biblical figure, David, who eventually becomes the most renowned and celebrated king of Israel. The series follows the once-mighty King Saul as he falls victim to his own pride. At the direction of God, the prophet Samuel anoints an unlikely, outcast teenager as the new king. As Saul loses his power over his kingdom, David finds himself on a journey to discover and fulfill his destiny, navigating love, loss, and violence in the court of the very man he’s destined to replace. As one leader falls, another must rise.
DIRECTORS: Jon Erwin, Jon Gunn, Alexanda La Roche, Michael Nankin
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Jon Erwin, Jon Gunn, Jonathan Lloyd Walker, Justin Rosenblatt, Chad Oakes, Mike Frislev
PRODUCED BY: Wonder Project, Amazon MGM Studios, Nomadic Pictures, Argonauts, Kingdom Story Company, Lionsgate Television
Scan to read full story
CAST: Newcomer Michael Iskander (Kimberly Akimbo on Broadway); Ali Suliman (Jack Ryan, Arthur the King) as King Saul; Ayelet Zurer (Angels and Demons, Man of Steel)
Courtesy Photo-Tamar and Evelyn Braxton
The Chronicle Small Business Spotlight: The Barbara Leatherwood Fight for the Cure Foundation
STORY AND MISSION
Founded in 2019, the Barbara Leatherwood Fight for the Cure Foundation was established to honor the memories of Barbara Leatherwood and Angie Contreras, two courageous women whose lives were tragically cut short by ovarian cancer. Barbara passed away on January 1, 2015, at the age of 62, just 11 months after her diagnosis, and Angie on November 2, 2022, at the age of 39, only five months after being diagnosed.
The foundation’s mission is to bring urgent awareness to ovarian cancer, the deadliest gynecologic cancer and the fifth leading cause of death among females worldwide. Each year, over 295,000 women are diagnosed globally, with 80% in late stages. This devastating disease
affects women of all ages, even as young as two, with increasing rates among those under 40.
What They Do
The Barbara Leatherwood Fight for the Cure Foundation focuses on:
Increasing Awareness: Educating communities about symptoms and risks to prevent latestage diagnoses.
Providing Financial Assistance: Offering grants for lifesaving screenings like transvaginal ultrasounds and covering medical and non-medical expenses such as rent, utilities, and food.
Advocating for Equal Access: Supporting accessible healthcare for all, regardless of financial status.
Why Awareness Matters
Ovarian cancer’s high recur-
rence rate and lack of accurate early testing make awareness and early detection critical for improving survival rates. Sadly, many women lack the insurance needed for proper care. The foundation was created to fill this gap, ensuring no woman is left without support.
About the Founder
Deborah Leatherwood Milekovich, Founder and CEO, launched the foundation fueled by personal loss and a deep commitment to helping others. A graduate of America Medical School in Lansing, MI, Deborah holds certifications in Patient Care, EKG, and Phlebotomy. Her experience in hospice care
THE FOUR-TIME TONY AWARD® WINNING NEW MUSICAL IS STARTIN' SOMETHIN' IN EAST LANSING FEB 11-16, 2025, AT WHARTON CENTER
EAST LANSING, MI – Producers Lia Vollack, John Branca, and John McClain are thrilled for MJ to make its East Lansing premiere at Wharton Center on Tuesday, February 11, through Sunday, February 16. Tickets for the smash-hit musical MJ are available now at the Wharton Center Ticket Office, online at whartoncenter.com, or by calling 517.432.2000 or 1.800.WHARTON.
He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to East Lansing in MJ, the multiple Tony Award® winning musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour. Created by Tony Award® winning Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collabora-
tive spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status. It’s thrilling sold out crowds on Broadway; in cities across North America; London’s West End; Hamburg, Germany … and now MJ is startin’ somethin’ in East Lansing as it makes its premiere at Wharton Center in February 2025.
The MJ creative team features Scenic Design by two-time Tony® and Emmy Award winner Derek McLane, Lighting Design by seven-time Tony Award® winner Natasha Katz, Costume Design by Tony® and Emmy Award winner Paul Tazewell, Sound Design by Tony Award® winner Gareth Owen, Projection Design by two-time Tony Award® nominee Peter Nigrini, Hair & Wig Design by two-time Emmy Award nominee Charles G. LaPointe, and
Tips for Lowering Maintenance Costs at Your Business
As a business owner, finding ways to curtail expenses while ensuring smooth operations is paramount. Maintenance costs, if you’ve left them unchecked, can quickly escalate and erode your profits. Thankfully, there is a world of ways that you can lower maintenance costs at your business. A little bit of work in the right places can go a long way toward saving your business money and making maintenance easy. Here are some tips.
Regularly Inspect and Maintain Equipment
Regular inspections and maintenance of your equipment are essential for identifying potential problems early. By addressing issues promptly, you can prevent costly repairs or replacements. Make it a habit to schedule routine maintenance checks for all equipment, using diagnostic tools to assess its condition.
Also, keep detailed records of any work done, including replaced parts and service dates, to track equipment performance over time. Implementing a comprehensive maintenance checklist
can streamline this process and help you make sure that you’re not overlooking anything important.
Use the Right Equipment and Materials
Using high-quality equipment and materials may require a larger upfront investment but can save you money over time. Cheaper options might seem cost-effective initially, but they often lack durability and are prone to frequent breakdowns, leading to higher maintenance costs.
For example, if you use storage tanks, it’s important that you also invest in tank liners to reduce the maintenance, repairs, and replacements that you’ll do over time. Polymer-based tank liners have numerous benefits, and when you invest in similar high-quality equipment and materials, you can capitalize on these benefits.
Maintenance will never go away. However, when you invest in your equipment instead of cutting corners, maintenance can be easy and save you
money in the long run.
Train Your Employees
Properly trained employees are crucial for reducing maintenance costs. They should not only be knowledgeable about using equipment correctly but also adept at identifying warning signs of potential issues and following proper maintenance procedures.
Invest in comprehensive employee training programs that cover equipment operation, basic troubleshooting techniques, and safety protocols. These programs can save you money in the long run by teaching workers how to avoid costly accidents. Additionally, training improves overall workplace safety and efficiency.
Keep a Clean and Organized Workspace
A clean and organized workspace not only boosts productivity but also reduces maintenance costs. Cluttered
How to Champion Change as a Local Business Owner
As a small business owner, you can significantly impact community health and well-being while enhancing your business’s reputation as a leader in care. This article presents practical strategies for leading initiatives that improve individual wellness and foster a healthier community. Promoting health, building strong community connections, and prioritizing well-being can create a lasting positive influence that benefits your business and those around you.
Drive Workplace Wellness with Health Initiatives
Organizing health screenings and vaccination campaigns at your workplace is a powerful way to boost employee and community health. These initiatives give your team access to preventive health measures and increase their awareness of personal health status, which is crucial in reducing absenteeism due to illness. By incorporating best practices for workplace safety and health, you foster a culture that extends benefits beyond
your immediate team to their families and the wider community. Proactive steps like these demonstrate your commitment to employee well-being and position your business as a responsible community leader.
Energize Community Spirit by Sponsoring Events
Sponsoring community events such as charity runs
and local sports leagues can significantly enhance physical activity and wellness in your area. Events like Run For Charity offer diverse opportunities for participants of all ages and abilities to engage in physical exercise. By supporting these initiatives, you promote health and wellness while increasing your business’s visibility and customer engagement. Partnering with local health fairs allows you to provide valuable health screenings and educational services, further promoting a culture of wellness.
Unlock Success with Local Business Tips
Embarking on your entrepreneurial journey requires strategic planning and a clear vision. Start by defining your business goals and crafting a comprehensive plan that evaluates your offerings and understands your target market’s needs. Engaging with your local
The Culture of Finances: A Path to Financial
Confidence
BY JAMARA RANDALL , MSUFCU Market Manager –Greater Lansing Region
At MSUFCU, we know how overwhelming finances can feel sometimes. Credit scores, managing debt, and just trying to make ends meet—it’s a lot. That’s why we created The Culture of Finances (TCOF). A program that will help people take control of their money and their futures.
This program is so much more than financial education. It’s about breaking down barriers that have kept people from feeling confident about their finances. Through six tailored sessions over 12 weeks, participants learn how to spend with intention, conquer debt, and build credit. We’ve even included a special session designed for families, so parents and kids can learn and grow together.
I’ve seen firsthand how TCOF changes lives. One graduate told me
they never thought they’d feel hopeful about their finances—but now they have a plan, confidence, and are even saving for their dream home. Stories like that are why we do this.
We’ve built this program for everyone—whether you’re a member or not. But it’s especially designed for people who’ve faced financial challenges or been excluded from traditional resources. And it’s not just about learning; it’s about growth, community, and creating real opportunities.
Registration is open now, but don’t wait—spots are filling fast! Sign up by February 14, 2025, and take the first step toward financial confidence. Join us today, and let’s make your financial dreams a reality! Visit msufcu.org/thecultureoffinances to sign up. Together, we’ll build your brighter financial future!
Jamara Randall is the Market Manager for MSUFCU’s Greater Lansing Region and a proud advocate for financial equity and empowerment.
Embracing a Regret-Free Life: Moving Beyond the Past
BY J. DOMONICK DIXIE
Regret is a powerful emotion that can haunt our thoughts, hinder our progress, and rob us of the present moment. However, it is within our power to break free from the grip of regret and cultivate a life filled with joy, growth, and fulfillment.
To avoid regret, it is essential to embrace a mindset of acceptance and forgiveness. Understand that mistakes are an inevitable part of the human experience, and dwelling on past missteps only keeps us trapped in a cycle of negativity. Instead, choose to learn from your past choices and use them as stepping stones for personal growth. Reflect on the lessons learned and make a conscious effort to apply those insights to present and future decisions.
Another crucial step in moving beyond regret is practicing self-compassion. Understand that you are not de-
fined by your past actions or decisions. Treat yourself with kindness, acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes. Replace self-blame and self-criticism with self-love and understanding. Embrace the belief that you deserve happi-
ness and a life free from regret. Moreover, living in the present moment is key to overcoming regret. Dwelling on the past or worrying about the future robs us of the beauty and opportunities that exist in the here and
now. Focus on what you can control today and take small steps towards the future you desire. Embrace gratitude for the lessons learned and the person you are becoming.
Lastly, surround yourself with a supportive network of family, friends, or mentors who uplift and encourage you. Share your experiences and fears with trusted individuals who can offer guidance and perspective. Seek their wisdom and learn from their own journeys, realizing that you are not alone in facing regret.
In the end, living a regret-free life requires embracing self-forgiveness, practicing self-compassion, living in the present, and cultivating a supportive network. Remember, it is never too late to make peace with your past and create a future filled with joy, growth, and endless possibilities. Seize the opportunity today and embark on a transformative journey towards a regret-free life.
Courtesy Photo-Jamara Randall, MSUFCU Market Manager – Greater Lansing Region.
