The Hills Magazine May 2020

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hills

A Social Magazine for the Residents of Whitehills Lakes, Whitehills Woods and the Cove at Whitehills Lakes | May 2020

Presley

The Gentle Giant

Inside: • Low Sugar Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola • National Parks of the American West • Thoughts from Bee • Our Family’s FAVORITE SALAD • Driving Miss Betsy • The Ticket Machine • Imagine

YOUR STORIES | YOUR PHOTOS | YOUR COMMUNITY

Thank You to Dr. Laura Dyras for Making Dyras Dental "Able Eyes Accessible"

Sponsored By

This Location is Able Eyes Accessible www.AbleEyes.org

meegan@ableeyes.org Making Businesses Accessible for Customers of All Abilities Using 360 Virtual Tours Also A Great Marketing Tool 2 The Hills • May 2020

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May 2020 • The Hills

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THE HILLS TEAM

Bringing The Hills Magazine to life each month

Evan Winters: Editor and Publisher evan.winters@n2pub.com Photo Credit: Sparrow Foundation Dapper Dads

Jeanne Schaberg Content Coordinator

Karen Bush Schneider: Resident Recipe, Whitehills Lakes North resident

Anthony Collar: Anthony’s Art, Whitehills Woods resident

Saltia Biscette: “IMAGINE” Writer, Whitehills Woods resident

If you would like to join our staff, please email evan.winters@ n2pub.com to get more details. It’s fun and flexible!

The pay is $30 per article with accompanying photos.

Calla Ramont: Healthy Living Intern, Whitehills Lakes resident

4 The Hills • May 2020

Jace Schnee

Johanna Schnee

Elizabeth McCabe: Staff Writer

The Hills

www.n2pub.com © 2020 Neighborhood Networks Publishing, Inc.

I M P O RTA N T

PHONE NUMBERS

STA F F PUBLISHER/EDITOR, THE HILLS MAGAZINE

Evan Winters | 517-488-2607 evan.winters@n2pub.com

CONTENT DIRECTOR

Jeanne Schaberg, Whitehills Woods resident TheHillsPublication@gmail.com

Hospital (with 24 hour emergency room) 517-364-1000 517-975-6000

Sparrow Hospital McLaren Greater Lansing Hospital

COMMUNITY

CREATIVE TEAM ADVERTISING INFORMATION

C O N TACTS

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Neighborhood Home Owners Associations The Cove at Whitehills Lakes 517-333-9622 Whitehills Lakes/Woods 517-882-1826 ext.126

STAFF WRITER HEALTHY LIVING RESIDENT INTERN

Charter Township of Meridian Accounting & Budgeting Township Manager Tax Assessment Board and Commissions Communications Clerk’s Office Community & Planning Fire (Non-Emergency) Human Resources Police (Non-Emergency) Parks & Recreation Township Manager Building & Code Enforcement Water & Sewer

517-853-4100 517-853-4250 517-853-4400 517-319-6904 517-349-1232 517-853-4300 517-853-4506 517-272-4791 517-853-4250 517-332-6526 517-853-4600 517-853-4254 517-853-4500 517-853-4650

Bath Charter Township Superintendent Assessment Building & Zoning Clerk Fire Non-Emergency Library Ordinance Compliance Parks & Recreation Police Non-Emergency Treasurer

517-641-6728 517-641-6728 ext.112 517-641-4238 517-641-6728 517-641-7811 517-641-7111 517-641-6728 517-641-5167 517-641-6271 517-641-6728

RESIDENT RECIPE ART CONTRIBUTOR RESIDENT CONTRIBUTOR RESIDENT CONTRIBUTOR

N2 Publishing Design Team Evan Winters | 517-488-2607 | evan.winters@n2pub.com Michele Hoffman - Hoffman Photography 517-393-1058 | 1picturelady.com Elizabeth McCabe Calla Ramont, Whitehills Lakes resident Karen Bush Schneider, Whitehills Lakes North resident Anthony Collar, Whitehills Woods resident Shems Hamdan, Whitehills Woods resident Saltia Biscette, Whitehills Woods resident

Resident Contributors Wanted To become a contributor, please contact Tiffanie Winnie to learn more. She can be reached at TheHillsEL@gmail.com.

DISCLAIMER: N2 Publishing is not affiliated with or contracted by the Whitehills Neighborhood Association (the “Association”). This publication, including the content of articles and advertisements contained herein, is not authorized or endorsed by the Association. Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of N2 Publishing but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid advertisements contained within The Hills magazine are not endorsed or recommended by N2 Publishing or the publisher. Therefore, neither N2 Publishing nor the publisher may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies. NOTE: When community events take place, photographers may be present to take photos for that event and they may be used in this publication.

May 2020 • The Hills

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Sponsor I N D E X Neighborhood

This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted neighborhood vendor to use.

Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring the publication. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for supporting the publication!

ADVERTISING / MARKETING The Hills Magazine Evan Winters (517) 488-2607

CBD PRODUCTS Above The Roots MI (517) 455-6163 abovetherootsmi.com

ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE Vista Springs Timber Ridge Village (517) 339-2322 vistaspringsliving.com

CHIROPRACTIC CARE & WELLNESS Moore Life Health and Healing Dr. Ryan Moore (517) 781-4884 moorelifehealth.com

AUTO DEALER/AUTO REPAIR Lexus of Lansing (517) 394-8000 lexusoflansing.com Shaheen Cadillac (517) 507-4905 shaheencadillac.com Shaheen Chevrolet shaheenchevrolet.com Spartan Toyota (517) 394-6000 spartantoyota.com BANKING Capitol National Bank (517) 484-5080 capitolnational.com Dart Bank (517) 244-4406 dartbank.com BUSINESS IT SUPPORT Doberman Technologies (517) 978-8324 dobermantechnologies.com CARPET/RUG CLEANING & RESTORATION Magna-Dry (517) 371-2565 magnadrylansing.com

6 The Hills • May 2020

DESIGN BUILD / REMODELING Custom Built Design & Remodeling (517) 881-9871 callcustombuilt.com DISABILITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES Able Eyes (517) 819-7284 ableeyes.org DOG BOARDING/TRAINING/DAYCARE Doggy Daycare and Spa (517) 333-9663 LansingHipHounds.com

Rycus Flooring (517) 887-8720 rycusflooring.com HOME THEATRE / HOME INTEGRATION Sound Solutions (517) 202-3047 lansingsound.com INSURANCE All Michigan Insurance Agency (517) 349-4820 allstate.com/pamlamb Allaby & Brewbaker Insurance (517) 332-3766 abins.com JEWELRY, CUSTOM DESIGN, REPAIR Medawar Jewelers Okemos 2168 W. Grand River Ave Okemos, MI 48864 (517) 347-8808 medawarjewelers.com

FINANCIAL PLANNING/WEALTH MANAGEMENT Thrivent Financial (517) 881-8294 https://connect.thrivent.com/ Brice-Blossom/, https://connect.thrivent.com/ shelby-butler/

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR Bud Branch and Blossom (517) 515-1723 budbranchblossom.com

FITNESS WORKOUT WARRIORS Jeanne Schaberg 6398 Ridgepond Place East Lansing, MI 48823 (517) 775-1638

MASSAGE - MOBILE Curative Massage (989) 980-2161 curativemassagellc.com

FLOOR COVERING/FLOOR INSTALLATION Carpet Studio Flooring America (517) 351-6310 flooringamericalansing.com

Earth Tones Landscaping (517) 333-5700 etonesinc.com

MASSAGE/REIKI Holistic Butterfly Studio (517) 303-5849 holisticbutterflystudio.com

MEDICAL SPA & WELLNESS MSU Aesthetic & Laser Treatment Center (517) 267-2497 www.cosmetic.msu.edu

PERFORMING ARTS MSU Wharton Center for Performing Arts whartoncenter.com

REALTORS Kristin Clark, Inspired Home (517) 582-1580 inspired-home.com

PERSONAL TRAINING AND NUTRITION Figured Out Fitness Jennifer Nagel (517) 214-8138 figuredoutfitness.com

REMODELING Northern Home Improvement (517) 484-3767 northernhomeimprovement.com

MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS & SKIN CARE A Vita Nova (517) 235-5303 avitanova.org MOVING SERVICES M & M Moving & Storage (517) 977-8859 mmmovingandstorage.com Two Men and a Truck (517) 306-2441 twomenandatrucklansingmi.com PAINTING & CABINET REFINISHING Platinum Paint Coatings (517) 712-1867 platinumpaintcoatingsmi.com PAINTING & WALLCOVERING Coloring & Covering of Michigan (517) 862-2526 coloringandcovering.com PAINTING/DECK STAINING Tony Grant’s Painting Company (517) 394-5942 tonygrantspainting.com

PLUMBING Perry Plumbing (517) 625-6133 perry-plumbing.com REALTOR Lisa Fletcher, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices (517) 449-6100 greaterlansinghomes.com Lynne VanDeventer Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood (517) 492-3274 www.lynnevandeventer.com REALTOR - SOUTHWEST FLORIDA Sarah Hudgins, Williams Raveis Sarah Hudgins (239) 331-0748 sarahhudgins.raveis.com

Grasscloth Wallpaper

SOCCER Cap City Athletic 1847 (517) 230-8353 capcityathletic.com SOCIAL CLUB University Club of Michigan State University Sara Majeske (517) 353-5626 universityclubofmsu.org TICKET BROKER The Ticket Machine (888) 887-4411 theticketmachine.com WEALTH MANAGEMENT Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. (517) 483-4895 TB Financial Services Anthony Bagneschi (517) 619-1298 tbfinancialservices.com

Coloring & Covering of Michigan Wallpaper Painting Staining Over 30 Years Experience Commercial & Residential Bill Ramsey, Owner coloringandcovering.com (517) 862-2526 bill@coloringandcovering.com

Coloring & Covering May 2020 • The Hills

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from the publisher

Uncertain Times Create Memories Welcome to May!

As I type this note it is March 24th, one day into our statewide shut down except for “essential” services. So I’m going to assume by the time this arrives in mailboxes we’ll all be healthy and back to work!

At day two I’m already getting a little stir crazy, however, it’s getting a little warmer outside so we’ll be able to enjoy evening walks. We will be able to spend a little more time together as a

family and slow down a little. We did decide on a family structure for our weekdays, the boys have to get out of bed and do chores, spend time doing something educational, something active, time learning a new skill and plenty of free time and family time in the evening.

Both Meegan and I are still getting up at our normal time and following the same routines each morning. Trying to keep our lives in order during this difficult time.

We were able to get out to my family farm over the weekend and went searching for deer antler sheds. We found a full skull with antlers in the woods which was cool. That is the first time we have ever done that. We are planning to go back morel mushroom hunting this spring.

Another positive change we decided to implement is a no cell phones in the bedroom policy. The first couple nights were difficult but after the addiction was broken I have noticed falling asleep much quicker and a better night’s sleep, and I was getting 7-8 hours previously. We’ll see what the remaining 3 weeks will have in store for our family.

I also want to encourage you to consider hiring and working with the businesses that sponsor this publication. In this uncertain time all the businesses you see in this issue have continued their commitment to support the publication. We haven’t lost a single business partner at this time, and that speaks volumes for the types of businesses that we have been able to partner with.

One last thing, we used our social media and email list to encourage others to support the Greater Lansing Food Bank during the shutdown. If you would like to join the over 100 neighbors and sponsors that donated you can scan the QR Code on this page for a direct link to the donation page at the Food Bank.

I wish everyone a healthy May and crossing my fingers we are all able to get back to our lives, maybe with a little more gratitude for the little things in life.

Evan Winters Publisher 517-488-2607 evan.winters@n2pub.com @EvanAWinters on Instagram

8 The Hills • May 2020

Thecabinetpainters.com

KITCHEN CABINETRY REFINISHING

Save Thousands of $ Over Total Cabinet Replacement!

(517) 712-1867 Licensed and Insured

May 2020 • The Hills

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10 The Hills • May 2020

We have gifts for

Mother's Day! Locally Grown, Processed and Owned

www.abovetherootsmi.com | Atrootsmi@gmail.com | (517)803-5105

May 2020 • The Hills

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living spaces

Thorngate 16878 WHITEHILLS LAKES NORTH

Approx. 4,000 sq. ft. well maintained two-story, custom-built for the owner. Lovely 2 story foyer entry including French doors to the main floor study with built-in bookshelves, crown molding, and full bath (could be a 5th bedroom). The formal living room or piano room offers an adjoining formal dining room including a charming bay window with beautiful views of the rear yard.

Lovely updated kitchen offering granite countertops, center island work space, built-in desk area, pantry, and new black stainless-steel appliances including a Samsung refrigerator and double oven/convection oven. Fabulous informal eating area in a box out with lovely crown molding and direct access to the deck oasis.

12 The Hills • May 2020

Enjoy the architecturally designed deck with a slat roof and massive outdoor living space. Generous sized family room with vaulted ceilings and skylights. Zoned heating. 1st floor laundry plus 3 car garage. Deluxe master suite offering 2 walk-in closets, cathedral ceilings, and large private bath with double sinks, ceramic shower, and attic storage access. 3 additional generous bedrooms. Finished lookout lower level including a spacious 42.6X14.5 media room/rec room & 16X12.6 play space, built-ins, full bath, and space for an additional bedroom! Furnace & A/C 2015. Hot water heater 2014.

Relax & Enjoy Retirement Retirement Income & Tax Planning Tony Bagnesch, EA, RICP®, CFP® 333 Albert Avenue, Suite 606 East Lansing, MI 48823 Phone: 517.619.1298 E-mail address: abagneschi@parklandrep.com

Securities offered through Parkland Securities, LLC, member FINRA & SIPC. TB Financial Services, LLC is not associated with Parkland Securities, LLC. or SPC. Fee-based investment advisory services offered through Sigma Planning Corporation, a registered investment advisor.

May 2020 • The Hills

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fun around the capital city

Local Events May-June

May 2020 Events MAY 13 West Michigan Whitecaps at Lansing Lugnuts Tickets Wed, 10:35 AM Cooley Law School Stadium, 505 E Michigan Ave Lansing, MI Buy tickets to watch the Lansing Lugnuts take on the West Michigan Whitecaps on Wednesday May 13th, 2020 at Cooley Law School Stadium.

MAY 16 Woofer Walk & 5k Sat, 11 AM Auditorium, 542 Auditorium Rd East Lansing, MI Grab your friends, family, and dog then join us May 16th for the 11th Annual Woofer Walk & 5K! Register for the untimed 1-Mile or the officially timed 5K run on MSU’s beautiful campus.

MAY 16-MAY 17 57th Annual East Lansing Art Festival Sat, May 16 – Sun, May 17 East Lansing Art Festival, 410 Abbot Rd East Lansing, MI The East Lansing Art Festival is presented by the City of East Lansing Contact the East Lansing Art Festival by calling 517-319-6804 or emailing us at hmajano@cityofeastlansing.com Website by...Read more on Elartfest.com

14 The Hills • May 2020

MAY 17 Nitro Circus Sunday Cooley Law School Stadium, 505 E Michigan Ave Lansing, MI Nitro Circus works with the some of the world’s most passionate individuals. From world-class athletes to world-class daredevils, our athletes come from all backgrounds and are at the top of their game in FMX, BMX, Skate, Scooter, and everything in between. This diversity and risk-taking spirit allows us to constantly progress and innovate in all aspects of action sports, and have fun while doing it.

MAY 22 MediaWest Con Fri, May 22 – Mon, May 25 Ramada by Wyndham Lansing Hotel & Conference Center, 7501 W Saginaw Hwy Lansing, MI MediaWest Con is the annual gathering of Science Fiction/Media fandom, traditionally held each Memorial Day Weekend in Lansing, Michigan. MediaWest Con is sponsored by T’Kuhtian Press as a celebration of the diversity of SF/Media fandom MAY 29 Margarita Fest 2020 Friday Lansing Center, 333 E Michigan Ave Lansing, MI Help us find our lost shaker of salt. Attend this festive summer event as the Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority and City Pulse partner up to host Michigan’s third annual margarita festival.

MAY 30 2020 Hawk Island Triathlon - Lansing, MI 2020 Sat, May 30 – Sun, May 31 Hawk Island Park, 1601 E Cavanaugh Rd Lansing, MI The Hawk Island Triathlon is a beginner-friendly event designed for people of all ages, body types, fitness levels and abilities. We offer a safe and supportive environment for all ages, and we make accommodate wherever possible for persons with disabilities.

JUN 13 8th Annual Lansing Beer Fest Sat, 4 – 9 PM Reo Town Pub, 1145 S Washington Ave Lansing, MI The 8th Annual Lansing Beer Fest which is an outdoor beer festival on Washington Avenue between South St. and Elm St. in REO Town.

JUN 16 - JUN 21 Dear Evan Hansen - East Lansing Tickets Tue, 7:30 – 11:59 PM Wharton Center for Performing Arts, 750 E Shaw Ln East Lansing, MI Winner of six 2017 Tony Awards® including Best Musical and the 2018 Grammy Award® for Best Musical Theater Album.

June 2020 Events JUN 6 Sparrow Michigan Mile Sat, 9 AM 505 E Michigan Ave Lansing, MI The Sparrow Michigan Mile is a one-mile run for kids 13 and under at Cooley Law School Stadium, home of the Lansing Lugnuts.

JUN 6 Be A Tourist In Your Own Town Saturday 500 E Michigan Ave Lansing, MI While a dollar sure doesn’t buy much these days, it’s still enough to participate in the Lansing area’s favorite annual event - Be A Tourist In Your Own Town.

25 JUN Common Ground Music Festival Thu, Jun 25 – Sun, Jun 28 Adado Riverfront Park, 201 E Shiawassee St Lansing, MI JUN 27 Celebrate Meridian Festival Saturday 5151 Marsh Rd Okemos, MI Save the date! Celebrate Independence “Meridian Style” at our annual Celebrate Meridian Festival and Food Truck Rally. Enjoy a day filled with amazing gourmet foods, live music, beer and wine

May 2020 • The Hills

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Welcome

new to the hills?

TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD!

Are you and your family/spouse/children new to Whitehills Lakes, Whitehills Woods, Whitehills Lakes North, Whitehills Lakes South, or The Cove at Whitehills Lakes? Please send your contact information to evan.winters@ n2pub.com to be added to our email and event invitation list. We take pride in protecting your information – we will never share your contact information with anyone. Currently, we have over 400 email addresses on file.

C O N N E C T E A S I LY V I A

QR CODES

If you see an advertisement or article in the magazine with a QR Code, you can scan that code and it will link to a website, video or social media page for more information. Below are the directions on how to use these code and an example from the Real Estate Resource Page to test it out.

Scan a QR code with your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch Open the Camera app from your device’s Home screen, Control Center, or Lock screen. Hold your device so that the QR code appears in the Camera app’s viewfinder. Your device recognizes the QR code and shows a notification. Tap the notification to open the link associated with the QR code.

16 The Hills • May 2020

How to Scan a QR Code with a QR Code Reader Open the QR Code reader on your phone.

Hold your device over a QR Code so that it’s clearly visible within your smartphone’s screen. Two things can happen when you correctly hold your smartphone over a QR Code.

The phone automatically scans the code ...

If necessary, press the button. Presto!

“We were so pleased with the work EarthTones did for us. They were prompt, responsive, and professional. Justin and his team created and implemented a great design that made the most of our resources.

He incorporating plants and hardscaping elements already in place into the renovated spaces, reducing waste and maximizing the impact of our budget. EarthTones also took initiative to make use of some uncovered boulders, transferring them over to our Thorngate Road sign where we had not yet installed any landscaping. This sort of attention to detail and follow-through typifies EarthTones. We look forward to seeing these spaces flourish in the spring and to addressing the remaining common areas in the future!

Jana Micomonaco. Whitehills Lakes North resident and HOA Board Member

HAVE YOUR OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE DESIGNED TODAY!

Phone: 517.333.5700 | Like us on Facebook earthtonesinc@etonesinc.com | etonesinc.com DESIGN | MAINTENANCE | INSTALLATION

Visit Our YouTube Channel by Pointing Camera Phone Here May 2020 • The Hills

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iPhone Camera or QR Reader

GRAB A

FRONT ROW SEAT!

www.theticketmachine.com | 517-655-3201

YOUR SECURITY HERE'S HOW WE DO IT OUR THREE STEP PLAN UNDERSTAND

We have a meeting to understand what’s important to you.

PROTECTION We build a plan together to match protection to what is important.

MONITOR We monitor, test, and report back to you moving forward.

Schedule your call today to start moving forward.

517.978.TECH 18 The Hills • May 2020

DOBERMAN.NET

Calla’s Clean Eats healthy living

By Calla Ramont

Low Sugar Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola

I cannot believe it has taken me this long to make homemade granola... it is SO simple and delicious!

Reasons to make your own granola:

• it’s cheaper • it’s fun (hello, social distancing!)

• control of ingredients (no inflammatory oils, you can control the amount of sugar, use organic oats etc.)

• homemade always tastes better!!!

Ingredients • • • • •

2 cups old fashioned rolled oats 1/4 cup hemp seeds 1/4 cup peanuts 3 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened) 1/2 cup peanut butter (only ingredient should be peanuts or peanuts and salt) • 1/4 cup honey • 2 tbsp coconut oil • sprinkle sea salt

Instructions 1. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and preheat oven to 300F. 2. Combine oats, hemp seeds, peanuts, cocoa powder, and sea salt in a large mixing bowl.

3. Add your peanut butter, coconut oil, and honey to a small pot on the stovetop. Stir over low heat just until everything is fully melted.

4. Add your wet ingredients to your dry ingredients and mix until everything is fully coated.

5. Press mixture down onto parchment paper as thin as possible while still keeping it all together. This will help to make clusters!

6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until you start to notice the edges getting slightly crispy. Flip (trying to keep the clusters as big as possible) and bake another 5-8 minutes. Keep a close eye on it so that it doesn’t burn!

7. Let cool completely and then you can either keep the large clusters or break it down into smaller pieces like traditional granola. I personally like the big clusters!

Follow Calla on Instagram at @callascleaneats.

Check out her website: www.callascleaneats.com.

DON'T FORGET ABOUT YOUR DRYER!

CALL US TO SCHEDULE YOUR DRYER VENT CLEANING TODAY!

(517) 371-2565 magnadrylansing@gmail.com May 2020 • The Hills

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happy hour

Watermelon Lemonade Ingredients:

Cocktail

• 3 pounds seedless watermelon, rind removed and cut into 1-inch cubes (about 6 cups) • 1 cup light rum • 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 7 medium lemons) • 1/2 cup blackberry or raspberry liqueur • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Instructions: 1. Set a fine-mesh strainer over a large bowl and set it aside.

20 The Hills • May 2020

2 Place the watermelon in a blender and blend until liquified, about 1 minute. Pour through the strainer into the bowl and scrape a rubber spatula against the inside surface of the strainer to push the juice through until only pulp remains. Discard the pulp. (You should have about 3 cups of juice.)

3 Transfer the watermelon juice to a nonreactive 2-quart container.

Add the rum, lemon juice, liqueur, and sugar and stir until the sugar has dissolved. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, about 2 hours. Just before serving, stir to recombine. Pour over ice and garnish with a few blackberries.

WORKOUT WARRIORS Fitness Classes Right In Your Neighborhood!

Offering Small Classes For Every Fitness Level Cardio | Zumba | Strength | Barre | Core | Stretch and More

VISIT WORKOUT WARRIORS EL ON FACEBOOK OR EMAIL SPARTANSCAN@GMAIL.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. Jeanne Schaberg | 6398 Ridgepond Pl, Whitehills Woods | (517) 775-1638

RYCUS, You’ll Like Us!

Free Estimates 5300 S. Pennsylvania Ave. Lansing, MI 48911 rycusflooring.com (517) 887-8720 Since 1990, we've helped to beautify Whitehills one floor at a time.

IPHONE CAMERA OR QR READER

MAKING MEMORIES Tile | Vinyl | Carpet | Wood | Cork | Bamboo ON A RYCUS FLOOR Residential | Commercial May 2020 • The Hills

21

the

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resident business guide

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Connecting your busy life!

· HOME THEATERS· MEDIA ROOMS | UPGRADES · HOME AUTOMATION · LIGHTING CONTROL · HOME MONITORING | SECURITY SURVEILLANCE · HD GOLF SIMULATORS

Technology for Home or Business Owner: Ryan Tiemann â&#x20AC;¢ (517) 853.8841 ryan@lansingsound.com â&#x20AC;¢ www.lansingsound.com May 2020 â&#x20AC;¢ The Hills

23

anthony collarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s art Art by Anthony Collar, Whitehills Woods resident

May We are extremely honored to feature art by Anthony Collar, who is a resident of Whitehills Woods, in each issue of The Hills. Born in 1986, he was diagnosed with autism at age 2. With the help of his school and family, he created a business that features his incredible drawings. While sharing his talent through the Art of Autism, Anthony expresses his joy for life and love for people.

For information, you can visit www.artofautism.net.

24 The Hills â&#x20AC;˘ May 2020

Welcome our New Neighbors!

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16747 Thorngate

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PE

A Time for New Beginnings

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The VanDeventer Team Lynne VanDeventer, Diadre Pagliei & Tomas Brown

The VanDeventer Team received Coldwell Banker awards for 2018 Team of Three!

(517) 282-6135

6417 Oakencliffe Visit Lynnevandeventer.com for a Free Market Analysis!

(517) 282-6145

(517) 402-1650

#1 Team in Michigan #2 In the Nation

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Beverly Bates-Owner

tour & travel

By Shauna Osborne

NATIONAL

PARKS

OF THE AMERICAN WEST Ah, the American West. Think cowboys on horseback, cacti and tumbleweeds, gushing geysers, and scorching desert sand – there’s a romance to it, right? The ambiance of the West, America’s “Great Frontier”? When planning your next vacation, consider visiting our national parks out west. The western United States has an abundance of national parks, each with its own distinct charm, but all giving you the opportunity to commune with nature, observe stunning wildlife, and take in the pristine night skies.

Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona).

One of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon was formed over six million years’ time by the rushing waters of the Colorado River. The canyon is 277 miles in length, with dramatic, layered walls of yellow, red, brown, and gray rock, a cross-section of the area’s geological history. The quieter north and east rims promise a respite from tourist crowds, along with matchless views of the canyon.

Badlands National Park (South Dakota). This national park

lives up to its epic name in every way. With more than 244,000 miles of protected wilderness and prairie grasslands, Badlands National Park is home to bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs (and, prehistorically, saber-toothed cats!), as well as a variety of geologically unique features (the Yellow Mounds, Pierre Shale, and Brule Formation, for example).

Redwood National Park (California).

Yosemite National Park (California).

Carlsbad Caverns National Park (New Mexico). Carlsbad Caverns is

Situated in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite garners more than 4.3 million visitors per year and is 1,200 square miles of pure wilderness. Replete with giant sequoia trees, breathtaking waterfalls, and sheer granite walls, Yosemite is 95% Congressionally designated wilderness; the other 5% comprises both rustic and lux lodging and camping options, grocery stores, and even a Starbucks!

made up of more than 100 caves that were created when sulfuric acid dissolved limestone beneath the ground in the Chihuahuan Desert. The largest cave is known as simply “the Big Room” and is the fifth-largest cave chamber in the U.S. After you’ve taken in the caverns, don’t miss the rocky canyons, flowering cacti, ancient sea ledges, desert wildlife, and scenic drives that make up the rest of the park!

Home to the tallest (and possibly oldest) trees on Earth, Redwood National Park is situated on the California coast and offers endless opportunities for wildlife viewing (whales and sea lions, anyone?), coastal sightseeing, and hiking. Visit Tall Tree Grove for an epic drive through these giant, endangered trees and to see where parts of Star Wars, E.T., and Jurassic Park were filmed. Best of all, admission to Redwood is free!

May 2020 • The Hills

27

Bee

Thoughts from

It’s Spring in Michigan. A time when buds begin to emerge on the trees, bulbs are turning into Crocus and Tulips, grass begins to turn back to it’s non-hibernating state and things are green again.

The promise of summer is alluring. However, these months can also bring the threat of violent weather…thunderstorms, lightning and tornadoes.

Maybe Spring in Michigan is somewhat parallel to life. The earth is making great changes from Winter’s cold, gray, leafless months to warm, sunny days that bring life to everything that has been “sleeping.” Honestly, I hate change in my life. I may never recover from the CBS cancelling Hawaii Five-0 after 10 years. And yet, other drastic changes are taking place around me and I feel better. A lot better.

I know that change is difficult for most people. Change can mean uncertainty…like a threating thunderstorm. Sometimes, change can feel like a tornado swirling us around in circles, like Dorothy in the Wizard of OZ. But if like Dorothy, we can lean on our friends, persevere even when we feel the flying monkeys closing in, maybe sing and dance in the face of danger and believe that we already have the wisdom, the heart and the courage needed, we will certainly emerge on the other side-better than when we began.

28 The Hills • May 2020

Change can be frightening, but it can also mean that – like the buds and the bulbs – we are blooming into something beautiful.

The storm can make us move on to better places. The cold and gray that may have had us stuck in a rut, is replaced by a re-emergence of all the brightness and colors of Spring.

Spring is not always dependent on the rotation of the earth around the sun. Sometimes, Spring is us, individually and collectively, believing that change can be good.

Love to all, Bee…the change.

Question of the month: What was the best advice you ever received?

Send your answers to: evan.winters@n2pub.com We want to hear from you.

Jeanne

financial fitness

By Shauna Osborne

FINANCIAL TIPS FOR NEW

COLLEGE A

GRADS

h, spring is here! The birds are singing, the sun is shining, the flowers are blooming… and your whole life is stretching out before you – congratulations! As a new college grad, you’re about to launch your career with your first serious job, bringing with it your first real paychecks. While exciting, deciding what to do with your money can be overwhelming. But no worries, you have the greatest financial advantage of all on your side: time.

Embrace the following suggestions for new college graduates to get your fledgling fiscal life off on the right foot!

Make a Budget Establishing a reliable budget is a crucial first step once you’ve acclimated to your new salary and lifestyle. Once you have determined precisely where your money is going, you can confidently manage your expenditures, knowing what you can afford and when. For new grads, the 50/30/20 rule is appropriate: allocate 50% to needs like rent, utilities, transportation, groceries, and minimum loan payments; 30% to splurges, like trips and concert tickets; and 20% to savings. Overall, always aim to spend less than you make!

Start Saving for Retirement Contribute as much as you can to your retirement fund now, before significant expenses such as buying a house and raising children come into play. Certainly, make sure you reach your employer match if you have one (typically 3-6%) since it’s free money.

Build Your Credit Good credit is the key that unlocks many doors to financial success. A high credit score will help you get the best rates on loans, insurance, and a mortgage, and many employers and landlords also check credit scores when making employment/tenancy decisions for due diligence. Now is the time to begin building your credit. Start by reviewing your credit report on a free, helpful website such as Credit Karma, both to see where you stand and to access their personalized suggestions for building your credit.

In terms of debt, tackle all high-interest balances first.

Establish an Emergency Fund Set aside an emergency fund of three to six months’ worth of living expenses. While you may never need it, having this cushion in place just in case you become injured/ill or lose your job is great for peace of mind. Also, putting those funds into a money market mutual fund or a high-yield savings account will make your money work for you.

Some final words of advice: Amid all these responsible behaviors, don’t forget to have fun! Put aside a portion of your money each month to save/invest (20% or so), and then spend some guilt-free on adventures – eat delicious food, go to that concert, take that trip you’ve wanted to take. Now’s your chance!

May 2020 • The Hills

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4

lawn & garden

By Shauna Osborne

COMMON

Springtime PESTS S

pring has officially sprung in all corners of the country! The sun is shining, and our lawns and gardens are coming alive with greenery, birdsong, and, yes, springtime pests. Just as we humans have been eagerly waiting and watching for signs of warm weather, these vermin have been biding their time. Whether they’re stealing their way into your home, latching onto you as you hike, or ambushing you as you try to enjoy your outdoor space, learn more about the common springtime pests below and how to combat them proactively... before your warm-weather fun is compromised!

Fire Ants These reddish-brown insects live in large colonies of up to 250,000 workers and build their nests in the ground, with visible mounds rising up to 2 feet in height, usually in sunny areas like parks, large lawns, and fields. These aggressive insects are especially hazardous to young children (and those of us Southerners who like to go barefoot when it’s warm!), as their painful bites can cause a severe allergic reaction in some and will certainly cause stinging and swelling in all. Limit ants’ access to food and harborage by keeping your lawn growth low and removing grass clippings, leaf piles, and ripe fruit promptly. Eliminate any mounds you encounter as soon as possible with ant bait.

Mosquitos In many areas, the mosquito is public enemy number one during warm weather, with their bites playing host to any number of diseases, including West Nile, dengue, and Zika. Reclaim your outdoor space by removing all sources of standing water, keep-

30 The Hills • May 2020

(and How to Avoid Them)

ing your lawn and other foliage trimmed, and clearing away yard debris promptly. You should also arm yourself with a DEETbased repellent (or natural alternative), stay away from scented lotions and soaps, and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest times of day.

Termites While these pests won’t attack humans, you still don’t want to see them swarming your property during springtime. Often called “silent destroyers,” these wood-eating insects cause up to $5 billion in damage to American homes yearly. Be on the lookout for warning signs of infestation, such as hollow-sounding or crumbling wood, sagging floors or ceilings, or mud tubes on exterior walls. To help deter termite houseguests, eliminate any outstanding moisture problems by diverting water from the foundation, keeping gutters and downspouts clean, and sealing entry points, in addition to removing wood/paper termite food sources from around the outside of your home.

Ticks These small, blood-sucking parasites are a serious concern for outdoor enthusiasts, as they can carry diseases that are debilitating for both humans and animals, including Lyme disease and ehrlichiosis. Common across the entire U.S., ticks often find their way onto people by jumping onto exposed skin, so the best ways to avoid a tick bite are to wear long pants and sleeves while in grassy and wooded areas and to use a DEET-based repellent.

Check over your body, gear, and clothing (and your children’s and pets’) and shower as soon as possible after coming indoors.

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Proudly serving Michigan since 1958 Whitehills Resident Owned & Operated

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32 The Hills • May 2020

home matters

By Shauna Osborne

“On Board” G E T

T H E

C H A R C U T E R I E T R A I N !

Did you read the title of this article and ask yourself, “What is charcuterie?!” This French term, though hard to pronounce (“shar-cu-tuh-ree”), refers to an assortment of meats paired with different accompaniments, such as crackers, fruit, cheeses, and sauces, and it’s growing more popular by the party here in the U.S. There’s a certain art to putting together the perfect charcuterie tray, once considered a holiday or special occasion dish. As we move into picnic and garden party season, check out the following suggestions for making your next gathering deliciously successful!

The first rule to remember when preparing charcuterie for your gathering is there are no rules. Obviously, you will likely want to include the basics – meats and cheeses – but otherwise, have fun with this! Choose items – local, if possible – you and your guests will enjoy as well as those that will work well together visually, keeping in mind any known allergies. Here are some key components of a good charcuterie board.

delightfully complement cured meats and provide beautiful color to the board.

Meats: Choose a variety of meats, such as prosciutto, salami, pepperoni, ham, chorizo, and pâtés; you’ll need approximately 2-3 ounces per guest.

Once you have your delectable ingredients chosen, decide how you want to assemble them. Begin with your cheeses and small bowls of various canapés, arranging the rolled-up meats around them. Scatter crackers and bread around the space, then add fruits, nuts, and herbs to keep the colors of your platter balanced and beautiful. Don’t forget to choose a lovely foundation for your charcuterie spread, such as a large bamboo cutting board, marble slab, or ceramic platter.

Cheeses: Make use of diverse soft and hard

cheese options with varying milk types and colors, such as brie, havarti, gouda, hot pepper, cheddar, mozzarella, or blue cheese, soliciting suggestions from the cheese counter employee if needed. You’ll need approximately 2-3 ounces per guest.

Nuts and Seeds: Go big or go home! Marcona almonds, spicy nut/seed mixes, caramelized nuts, and even chocolate-covered nuts or raisins are great choices.

Fruits/Veggies: Mix in a colorful assortment of (preferably in-season) fresh and dried fruit, such as grapes, berries, sliced apples, dried apricots, dates, and figs, as well as herbs like basil, rosemary, or thyme.

Olives and other pickled or cured vegetables

Sauces, Breads, and Other Accompaniments:

Add a few spreads, jams, and mustards; honey and olive oil with balsamic vinegar work well here too. Go for artisan breads, a toasted baguette, and gourmet crackers with different shapes, textures, and flavors to keep things exciting.

Last, consider beverage pairings for your delightful delicatessen. Wine is most often paired with charcuterie (though a good scotch, bourbon, or rye will certainly work) to harmonize with the fattiness and saltiness of the proteins. Stick with less complex wines with subtle tannins and low alcohol, such as crisp, white wines (sauvignon blanc, pinot grigio, riesling, and sparkling white wines like prosecco) and lighter and fruitier red wines.

May 2020 • The Hills

33

FIND THE BEST A Virtual Map of our Recommended Partners

Do you need to call a plumber?

Who should you call to set up a massage for your wife?

We have created a virtual map with the google business listings of our recommended business partners for easy access. Just point your iPhone camera or QR Code reader at the code and download to your phone. If you have the google maps app it will work even better. Â Click the upper left hand corner after downloading to open the key. This button Your Local Map, In A Snap

34 The Hills â&#x20AC;˘ May 2020

EXPERIENCE THE THRIVENT DIFFERENCE When it comes to financial services providers, you have plenty of choices.

But while others see money as a goal, Thrivent Financial sees it as a tool—for connecting your faith, family and community. Our Team of Thrivent Financial representatives help Christians make wise money choices and live generously.

Want to learn more about our mission? Contact us for information.

Brice C Blossom FIC Financial Associate 810-625-6177

Shelby D Butler FIC, CLTC® Regional Market Leader 517-881-5633

3410 Belle Chase Way • Suite 400 • Lansing, MI 48911 Facebook.com/brice.blossom.thrivent Thrivent Financial representatives are licensed insurance agents/producers of Thrivent Financial, the marketing name for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Appleton, WI. They are also registered representatives of Thrivent Investment Management Inc., 625 Fourth Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415.

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May 2020 • The Hills

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neighborhood job postings

Join Our Team Fl e x i b l e & Fu n Advertising Sales Executive Duties for the advertising sales executive position would include prospecting and contacting potential sponsors for the private neighborhood publications we maintain (The Hills, The Lakes, and The Estates). An accepted candidate would be responsible for generating advertising revenue from local businesses in our area. Advertising sales executives typically meet face-to-face with six to eight businesses per week from appointments scheduled by phone calls, referrals, and networking. Very little travel is expected as the advertising sales executive typically stays within 5 to 10 miles of the communities in East Lansing and Okemos.

This position does not have a specific start and stop time. It’s flexible; however, the right candidate must be very disciplined with their schedule. Schedules are usually between the hours of 9 am and 4 pm, Monday-Friday.

Skills – Sales, client relationship management, clear communication, basic computer skills (Excel/email/Word), work ethic, and an upbeat professional attitude.

Resident Writers If you like writing and are looking for a little extra cash, you should consider joining our writing staff. The only requirement is that you must be a resident of the neighborhood. This is a great position to build a resume for a high school or college student or a fun part-time job for an adult who loves to meet new people in the community.

Types of Articles:

Training – Training is provided through a corporate training seminar as well as conference calls, meetings, one-on-one coaching, and shadowing/field training.

Compensation – Advertising sales executives are paid on a generous commission scale and offered additional opportunities as the results accumulate. This job would be appropriate for someone seeking to earn $2,000-$4,000 per month without sacrificing family time. *Pay is based on results*

Precious Pets Sports and Athletes Arts and Theatre Meet Your Neighbors Making a Difference Resident Business Beat

Pay: $30 per article with accompanying photos.

To learn more about any of these positions, reach out directly to Evan Winters at 517-488-2607 or evan.winters@n2pub.com.

36 The Hills • May 2020

CONNECT WITH THE COMMUNITY DIGITAL MAGAZINE AND SOCIAL MEDIA Digital Copy of The Hills Magazine Did you know you can read The Hills Magazine in digital format each month? This link is not public, but as a resident you can view the digital version at www.thehills-lansing.com.

Instagram and Facebook Follow The Hills Magazine at @the_hills_magazine on both Instagram and Facebook for more information on our advertisers.

Whitehills Resident Neighborhood Facebook Page Did you know there is a private Facebook page made exclusively for Whitehills’ homeowners? To be added, simply search for “Whitehills Lakes Connection” and request to join! An administrator will approve your request. *This Facebook page is not run by The Hills Magazine*

Vista Springs Timber Ridge Village

Your New Home with Full Assisted Living & Memory Care

Warning Signs & Symptoms of Dementia • Difficulty finding words • Trouble completing complex mental tasks, for example tasks with multiple steps, balancing a checkbook, paying bills • Confusion about time, place or people • Misplacing familiar objects • Personality changes, such as irritability or depression • Loss of interest in important responsibilities • Expressing false beliefs • Changes in judgement/trouble making decisions Always consult a physician to discuss changes in memory and thinking abilities.

16260 Park Lake Road East Lansing, MI 48823 |(517) 339-2322 Levels of Care: Catered Living | Assisted Living | Rediscovery Care May 2020 • The Hills

37

you’re invited!

Join Us in 2020

HAPPY HOURS RESTAURANT

REVIEWS

B2B Networking Our restaurant review and happy hour events are fun, with no agenda and no sales pitches. They are designed to meet neighbors and some of our sponsors in a casual setting. Food is always covered by our host or a sponsor. We ask that our guests cover the cost of their drinks and tip the servers. A typical restaurant review or happy hour has between 15 and 30 people. If you want to join us for an event, we ask that you email evan.winters@ n2pub.com to get on the list. Spots are limited for each event, and we need to know a count for food planning. We hope to see you at one of our fun events in 2020! Our Restaurant and Happy Hours events should be scheduled soon.

In the mid-1300s, the Aztec empire was thriving, and though the Mayan food staples were still in use, chili peppers, honey, salt and chocolate found its way into their cooking.

Cantina Eastwood Restaurant Review Location: Cantina Eastwood Monday, June 1st, 2020 6:00 - TBD Address: 2328 Showtime Drive, Lansing, MI 48912 Description: Simple, Perfect, Authentic Mexican Cuisine.

We can thank the Aztecs for chocolate. It was through them that the Spaniards brought the product to Europe in 1657.

Our Story The history of Mexican food is a long and diverse one.

It is believed that authentic Mexican food might have been derived from the Mayan Indians. Corn tortillas with bean paste were a common food item; but they also ate meat, tropic fruits, and fish.

38 The Hills • May 2020

Salsa was sold in Aztec marketplaces. salsa, the Spanish word for sauce, is uncooked and sometimes pureed until chunky, smooth, or chopped.

Large red tomatoes, tomatillo, chipotle {a staple in the Aztec diet} and the avocado are found in the modern salsa, and are the same core ingredients used in the past.

These historic traditions have helped shape the foundation of our menu and our styles of preparation. We think you’ll taste the difference in our commitment to authenticity in every item on our menu.

Business to Business Events: Sponsorship Still Available B2B “A Professional Fun Networking Event”

Location: TBD Wednesday, June 24, 2020 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Address: TBD B2B “A Professional Fun Networking Event”

Location: Shaheen Cadillac Wednesday, September 23, 2020 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Address: 632 American Rd, Lansing, MI 48911 B2B “A Professional Fun Holiday Networking Event”

Location: TBD Wednesday, December 16, 2020 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Address: TBD If you own a business and would like to join us or send a representative from your company, please email evan.winters@n2pub.com.

We will have door prizes, food, and drinks.

To have your email address added to our event invite list, share it with us at evan.winters@n2pub.com. Privacy is a priority; your email will be protected and not shared with anyone.

May 2020 • The Hills

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40 The Hills â&#x20AC;¢ May 2020

resident recipe

By Karen Bush Schneider

our family’s

FAVORITE SALAD

4 -6 SERVINGS

You will love this bright and colorful favorite family salad. This healthy goodness can be prepared in less than 10 minutes!

SCALE 1x2x3xINGREDIENTS SALAD INGREDIENTS: • 1 head red-leaf lettuce, chopped into bite-sized pieces • 1 head Romaine lettuce, chopped into bite-sized pieces • half of a small red onion, peeled and thinly-sliced • 2 (14 ounce) jars quartered artichoke hearts, drained and roughly chopped • 1 (12 ounce) jar roasted red peppers, drained and diced • 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts • 1 batch zesty red wine vinaigrette • optional garnish: extra freshly-grated Parmesan cheese ZESTY RED WINE VINAIGRETTE INGREDIENTS: • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil • 1/4 cup red-wine vinegar • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, store-bought or homemade • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt • 1/2 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder INSTRUCTIONS TO MAKE THE SALAD:

Add all ingredients together in a large bowl, and toss until evenly combined. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

TO MAKE THE VINAIGRETTE:

Whisk all ingredients together until combined. (Or add them together in a mason jar, and shake until combined.) Use immediately.

May 2020 • The Hills

41

Precious Pets

By Jeanne Schaberg

THE VISITING PET The Gentle Giant

Presley We’ve heard of the Visiting Vet, but here is a story about the visiting pet. Meet Presley. Presley is a five-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog. Also known as the Gentle Giant, Presley is a perfect model for his breed.

42 The Hills • May 2020

The Bernese Mountain Dog, affectionately called the Berner (and known as the Berner Sennenhund in their Swiss homeland), is instantly recognizable with their flashy, tricolor coat and white “Swiss cross” on the chest. Underneath that beautiful coat is a sturdy dog well suited for heavy work: These beautiful, gentle dogs have been traditionally used in Switzerland as herders and draft dogs. In addition to being strikingly good-looking, the Berner has a wonderful temperament. They’re known for being loyal, affectionate, eager to please, and intelligent.

They’re easy to train, if you allow them time to analyze what you want them to do. Most of all, they have a happy-go-lucky attitude about life.

That just about describes Presley to a “T.” Presley belongs to Bridget Chandler who is currently visiting (helping) her daughter Jessica, Jessica’s husband Rob and their blended family of five children. Jessica and Rob are fairly new to the Hills neighborhood so Bridgit and Presley have been helping with the transition.

Bridget told us that she was always attracted to the Bernese Mountain Dog, although until Presley came along, she had never owned one. But she would go so far as to stop her car to get out just to meet a Bernese and their owners if she saw one in her travels. Evidently, Bridgit’s son Jacob got the hint and put his name on a waiting list of a well-respected Bernese Breeder. It took three years for a puppy to become available and although this was a wonderful surprise for Bridget, when they went to pick up the puppy they met the Sire, who was giant. Bridget took a big gulp of air and wondered what she was getting herself into. But the story has a happy ending. Presley is an amazing companion, affectionate to a fault, show quality gorgeous and loves to cuddle. He loves the Dog Park, Car Rides and the Drive Thru (hmmmmm…wonder what he orders). Presley loves living with Bridget, Jessica, Rob, five beautiful children and Golden Retriever named Trooper and a Cavachon named Gracie on Ridgepond Place. If you are lucky, you may see Presley out on one of his many walks through the neighborhood and get to meet this Gentle Giant.

May 2020 • The Hills

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44 The Hills â&#x20AC;¢ May 2020

By Tracy Schnee

meet your neighbors

Y S T E B

S n S o I i t i M d E NG

a I r t V x I E R D The 30,000 pound of gleaming steel barreling down the highway. A 13’1” tall recreational vehicle careening through 13’4” tunnels.

Its 8 ft. wide girth straddling the lines of a 9 ft. wide lane, all while being navigated by the least likely person… Mom.

As one final addition to the articles entitled Betsy’s Northeast Adventures, which my children, Jace and Johanna, have been in an empty, wide open space to practice my turns with no cars writing over the last few months, “Mom” is going to take “take or medians to get in the way. So Chris drove us over to CostCo the wheel” to talk about a few other details. Many people have after closing time when the lot was completely empty. I hopped in asked questions about traveling in an RV, and have shown a bit of surprise to hear that I was the primary driver for our trip, so I’d thought I’d share a little about how and why that came to be the plan, a few of our “Griswold” moments, and how it turned out in the end. Never driven anything bigger than a minivan.

Yes. The largest vehicle I’d ever driven before the time I first put my foot on the Betsy’s pedals was a minivan. I’m pretty sure I never planned to drive anything like an RV in my life. I don’t even like driving boats. So naturally, driving Miss Betsy didn’t seem like something that would be in the cards for me. I prefer the passenger seat with a pillow and a cozy blanket for road trips.

It goes by much faster that way! But we found, AFTER we bought Betsy, there were a few things we really hadn’t taken into consideration as we made our dream plans of traveling to all 48 contiguous states. One of those overlooked items was the fact that the only way we were going to be able to undertake our planned adventures would be for ME to drive most of the time. That way my husband could continue to work during drive time. This would then leave him more time to spend with us once we got to the fun places that we wanted to explore. This reality forced me to come to terms with the fact that I would be driving the majority of the hours on the road and therefore… I would need to learn to drive Betsy, the beast. Lessons in the Costco parking lot.

To say I was timid about it was a bit of an understatement, especially since I knew I’d also have to learn to drive not only the RV but the RV with an extra 12 or more feet of tow bar and Jeep Cherokee being pulled behind. We started with just little ‘Ol 38 ft. Betsy for my first training session. I knew I’d eventually be able to do it; I just wanted my first driving experience to be May 2020 • The Hills

45

the driver’s seat ready to learn, and found I was less scared than I thought I’d be since we were in a wide open space with really nothing to hit. I thought, “I’ve got this.”

I think I had more confidence in myself than my husband had in me though. He guided me through the basic steps for starting and stopping the RV, the buttons on the dash and what I should be looking for in the mirrors. Practicing staying in the lines and making left-hand turns were first. Then right-hand turns (harder) were next and then there was a moment in time when I was headed towards 3 red pylons in the middle of the lot at a speed of about 1-2mph (literally BARELY moving), with every awareness of the pylons and every intention of stopping in plenty of time when my husband frantically yelled out, “Hit the brakes!” I still to this day can’t imagine how he thought I was really about to run straight into those very obvious pylons, but I somehow scared him to death. This outburst…may or may not have caused a bit of marital stress on both sides, BUT we have come through it after many miles of successful driving on my part! Believe it or not, you don’t need any special kind of license to drive an RV. Just a regular license. But I definitely recommend some instruction and practice before you hit the highway.

First highway drive – with cars on all sides.

Whew! That’s all I could say after my first actual highway drive!

Talk about stress! The idea of keeping this monster of a vehicle in between the lines while moving 60 mph down a highway is even more than you would anticipate, especially when you are in the middle lane with cars on either side of you. I was sure I would scare someone to run right off the road. However, this idea of staying in between the lines amazingly becomes second nature – like driving a car after a bit – but uses up every bit of energy in your body when you aren’t used to it. Twenty to thirty minutes was my max the first couple times. I was going to have to up my driving time if we were going to get anywhere on our big road trip.

The second stressful part of highway driving is merging. I remember how scary that was in Driver’s Ed at 16 years old.

Driving my little 1980 Honda Civic hatchback now seemed like a super-easy feat compared to squeezing 38ft (plus 2 car lengths and a towed car) in between 2 vehicles at highway speed. It’s so hard to tell when there is enough room to get in. But the more times I merged, the more I realized I really didn’t even need to worry about it; cars would see HUGE me coming with my blinker on and just get out of my way! Not kidding! And truckers know what it’s like trying to merge so they always let me in too. No need to worry! There’s an advantage to being big!

Day one of a 49-day journey I’d like to say that being big was an advantage in all situations, but on the very first day of our journey, that wasn’t the case! On

46 The Hills • May 2020

hour TWO of day 1 of our 49-day, 3,500 mile trip through the northeast, I found myself heading south in the Toledo area after taking a wrong exit. I told myself it was no big deal; I’d just go to the next exit – 5 miles down and turn around, a 10-mile detour.

No biggie. Alas, the intended exit was completely closed with the following exit another 6 miles south. I remained calm, but frustration was growing as I was now thinking about how much diesel I was wasting in the now 22 mile detour. $3.00 a gallon. That was at least 2 gallons of gas… Six miles later, we approached that exit, which I was happy to see was open, only to find out AFTER I took the exit, construction would still keep me from heading back north. The only place to go was to make a right-hand turn and drive a mile or so into downtown Bowling Green, OH. Squeezing between many, many construction cones and trying to see where my GPS wanted me to re-route, I thought I had a plan. But my concentration on the GPS and the skinny lanes was keeping me from seeing some (or maybe all) of the construction signs, particularly the one that would have told me that the road I was turning onto was CLOSED, completely.

As I completed my turn onto Main Street, it became abundantly clear that we were about to run into a problem. Straight ahead of me all 4 lanes of road were completely blocked off with huge construction signs and behind the signs sat a huge pile of gravel and a dozen or more large construction vehicles. Nowhere else to go. To my left, I looked down to see 5 construction workers looking up at me wondering what I was going to do next… Since the car was attached, backing up was not an option unless we unhooked the car entirely, so I prepared myself that we would be unhooking and then attempting a 32 point turn to get completely turned around – and I’d likely have to hunt down some car owners to move their parked cars. But to our pleasant surprise, after chatting with some of the nicest construction workers, one man came back and said they were going to move things around for us. Before I knew it, they had moved the signs, bull-dozed the pile of gravel, and moved enough vehicles to make a pathway just big enough for us to go straight through.

With many, many thanks to the construction workers, I revved up Betsy’s engine, and as I drove straight through the middle of a massive construction site waving to my new favorite friends, my husband casually commented, “That was like the parting of the Red Sea… Absolutely AMAZING.”

Defeating the giants.

It may seem like driving through the Red Sea would be the hardest part of dealing with an RV, but there is the other issue of all the connections, tanks, filling, emptying, etc., etc. In all honesty, this is something I really wanted nothing to do with as well. On our first few short trips around Michigan, Chris tried to teach me, but I wasn’t much into it. “I’ll make the food. You make the connections!” was the deal I made. It turns out this was another of those things we had not considered prior to the purchase of Betsy. There would be a few times during the

49 days when Chris would have to take off on a short trip for work, leaving me and the kids to take down, drive to the next campground, and set up the campsite by ourselves. So, more unsolicited learning for me! Since everything needs to be done in a very particular order, Chris helped me make a list for the set up and another list for the take-down and that came to be very helpful. I practiced a few times by myself while he was there so I felt ready by the time he actually had to leave for a trip. The only other thing to master was the car connections, of which I was even more worried about, because on a prior trip, he had once had to use every ounce of his quite muscular arms to get a bolt out and I was sure that I didn’t have the strength to do that. With a bit of WD-40 used as a precautionary measure and a few lessons, I had the car hookups mastered as well and could do it completely by myself with no problems. A proud moment I must say! There is definitely something to be said for overcoming challenges you never thought possible. Maybe I won’t question myself so much in the future!

Coming home – What happened to the left-hand turns?

Even though I was spoiled on the very last day by getting to lay around reading and playing games with the kids in the back of the RV as Chris drove most of the 12 hours home, I was really ready to be back in White Hills for the rest of the summer. As much as I loved Betsy and the trip, a little more space and a long, hot bath was going to be much appreciated. Our only disappointment in returning home was the finding of the construction work on Saginaw that took away the “last of the left-hand turns….” Sigh.

Not only do I find Michigan’s obvious dislike for the left-hand turn odd (Who’s with me here??), but it makes it much more difficult to navigate Betsy in the one-mile radius of our home. It’s a conundrum. The amount of thought it takes to figure out how to get into the Gillette RV service center across from Meijer is more than it takes to do ALL the hookups on the RV! Seriously, think about what route you would take from Whitehills if you can’t make a U-turn and you aren’t allowed to make any left-hand turns... (Hint: you have to go through the Meijer parking lot.)

But I digress... After 3,500 miles through the amazing northeast countryside in 15 campgrounds and more museums, exhibits, nature centers, and parks than I can count, we were finally home safe and sound. Time to plan next year’s trip!

May 2020 • The Hills

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EXTERIOR CHANGES TO YOUR

HOME

hoa news

Submitted by the Whitehills Lakes Home Owners Association

Your homeowner’s association requires advanced approval for any changes to your home or landscape.

To avoid unforeseen plan modifications from The Board of Directors, please request HOA approval in advance and in writing before you engage in any paint color changes to your home or any type of exterior construction, landscape modifications (removal or addition of trees and fences) or the addition of play structures. If your home is new construction, after your home closes escrow, any changes you make to your home or landscape must be submitted to the board for approval.

Please send an email to seek approval to spartan1@spartansvcs.net.

48 The Hills • May 2020

imagine

By Saltia Biscette

Dear Friend,

Unexpected Experiences

Spring is a season we expect to experience each year even when Michigan’s winter seems to last well into spring season. But how do we cope with experiences we have never before imagined? Most of us welcomed 2020 with individual celebratory traditions. Super Bowl LIV made its way to our home screens in February. March Madness arrived and the brackets were being completed. HALT!!

The unimaginable happened.

Often times, we manage unexpected experiences by implementing a plan B. What happens when plan B seems impossible to establish because the unexpected had never been experienced or imagined? Life as we knew it came to a halt in the month of March. An undesired, unexpected halt. Anxiety rattled us. Fear consumed us. Separation became necessary. Hope was compromised. Uncertainty lingered onward to April.

Unexpected experiences bring forth a halt usually restored by plan B. Unimaginable experiences bring forth an emptiness consumed by confusion and uncertainty. I imagine when both unexpected and unimaginable events simultaneously occur, faith becomes the key to rebuild.

Social distancing became necessary; however, let us beware of becoming socially vulnerable as we rebuild. Jobs were lost. Businesses closed. We became economically vulnerable, but together we can rebuild by becoming investors. What we are experiencing has influenced a change in our lifestyle. Faith in people will help guide us through our vulnerabilities as we rebuild.

As a nation, we were becoming attitudinally vulnerable people, dismissing the need for change.

Perhaps, the lifestyle changes we are experiencing may very well be the breakthrough toward “one nation, under God, indivisible”. I believe there is no experience powerful enough to annihilate the ability mankind has to love, to co-exist, and to overcome problematic experiences. I believe our country WILL rebuild. I believe mankind will regroup.

Together we have restored cities destroyed by hurricanes. Together we have minimized the spread of diseases and viruses by creating vaccines and medications. Together we have broken through many barriers. Although this global experience seems significantly different from past epidemic and pandemic experiences, we as a people have not lost our ability to overcome such an experience.

For every obstacle you experience, I encourage you to remember to hope. Remember to have faith. Remember you are built to fulfill a purpose. Remember you are not alone. Obstacles are not designed with self-evident steps toward victory. Your faith in the unknown, certainty in your ability to overcome, and your will to not be defeated will grant you victory over the unexpected and unimagined.

Mission of the Month: As we rebuild, I am most concerned about mental health. The duration of economical vulnerability will differ for many. I encourage you to adopt the habit of writing letters as many people establish financial adjustments which may require limited phone services and internet usage.

I imagine a world more intentional toward togetherness as a result of our recent unimaginable global experience.

Love, Sal

May 2020 • The Hills

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Neighborhood COMMON AREAS As warm weather approaches, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to remind everyone that our wonderful Home Owners Association maintains common areas throughout the neighborhood for residents to enjoy. On Island Lake Drive near Thorngate, there is a tennis/ pickleball court, along with expansive green space and picnic area. Located on Island Lake Drive as well, just south of Meadow Woods Drive, there is a pond overlook. Residents can bring their fishing poles along or just enjoy the natural beauty of their surroundings from the expansive bench seating!

50 The Hills â&#x20AC;˘ May 2020

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O: 517.420.5730 May 2020 • The Hills

51

Mico

BOOKSHELF

With the library sadly closed, even for pickups, we’re thankful that we have a robust collection of books. We even have some we’ve never read! One picture book we have read many times (and can possibly all recite) is Quick as a Cricket by Audrey Wood. We love the mop-top child romping through the pages, alternately keeping company with animal pairs embodying opposite qualities. The exuberant, energetic illustrations are beautiful enough that I looked in vain for prints of the artwork to hang in our nursery, and the rhyming text keeps pace with the illustrations. I also appreciate the way this book allows children to be complicated, to be “brave as a tiger” but also “shy as a shrimp.” And how can I not love a book that led my barely walking one-year-old to remark “I strong as ox!” while struggling to carry a chair?

52 The Hills • May 2020

Turning to a book on the opposite end of the spectrum, we recently checked The Book with No Pictures (B.J. Novak) out of the library. I had heard about it and seen it on the New York Times Best Sellers list, but dismissed it as an overhyped novelty book bought by adults but that kids don’t enjoy. I was wrong. My kids could not stop laughing at this book, reveling in the unorthodox style and relishing the foolish things I had to read. It is a good option for parents and children who are learning to enjoy reading together, as it invites – well, demands – playfulness from the reader. “It’s a book that definitely should be read aloud,” says Eva, “otherwise it will lose all its funniness!” Undistracted by pictures, my emerging reader Mark paid extra attention to the words on the page, noticing the varying font sizes and colors, and fully getting why it was so entertaining. He says “Books tend to be really funny when there’s someone talking directly to the reader.”

book, she travels to another galaxy and infiltrates the enemy air force, encountering a variety of life forms and political machinations. Sanderson’s penchant for creating complex, fascinating universes, and using them as the settings for twisty, unexpected plots gives these books depth, and his engaging, winsome characters and entertaining dialog make them even better. Sanderson knocks books out at a quick clip, but he can’t get the next one of these published fast enough for us!

We eagerly awaited the second installment of the Skyward series by Brandon Sanderson, and Starsight did not disappoint. Sanderson has several other series, some of which have too much violence for my kids, but so far this series has all the best elements of his other books without anything too graphic or disturbing. They tell the futuristic story of the human race, stranded in caverns underground a planet called Detritus. Their air force keeps humankind alive by warding off aliens bent on obliterating them with a civilization-ending bomb. More than anything, Spensa wants to be a pilot, and fights for a chance to prove herself and unravel the mystery of her father’s death. In the second

Ironically, in this time where I am constrained to my house with only my nearest and dearest, I’m reading Malcolm Gladwell’s Talking to Strangers: What We Should Know About the People We Don’t Know. Considering tragic situations involving Amanda Knox, Sandra Bland, and Brock Turner, Gladwell delves into the ways we get it wrong when parsing motivations and intentions without a history of personal interaction. Gladwell’s books are full of quotations from sources like the “classic 1969 work Drunken Comportment” or Under Pressure: A History of the British Gas Industry, but he deftly makes the research accessible and intriguing. As always, the writing is a pleasure to read: succinct, lively, and engaging, and he fills his narrative with concrete details that conjure up the characters he quotes. Gladwell himself reads the audiobook, making this a great audio option (downloadable via Overdrive through CADL). Although the fly-cover described this as “a guidebook for troubled times,” per his usual Gladwell introduces more questions than he answers: not my preferred type of guidebook. However, in light of his thesis, diminishing my faith in my own ability to understand someone I don’t know is not a bad thing. Then again, let’s be honest, sometimes even understanding the people I know best of all is beyond me!

What are you reading? I’d love to hear your responses to books we’ve read and your recommendations! We are also willing to lend you our books—we’ll leave them on the porch and you can Lysol-wipe them.

May 2020 • The Hills

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54 The Hills â&#x20AC;¢ May 2020

creative neighbors

“Spring is Popping” As we roll into May, I wanted to share with you this painting. I did this painting without brushes (once again).

My method: I squirted blues, greens and yellow along ½ of the canvas. I took white paint and squirted it on top of the canvas. I then took an old T-shirt and dragged the white paint over the colored paint. (I got great cells in this painting because I put silicone in the paint.)

Once again, I used my “favorite painting tool,” the skewer and manipulated the paint on the canvas.

When it was time for the flowers, I put blobs (great

technical term) of red, crimson, white and purple on the top of the canvas and blew the blobs into flowers with a straw. Then I took my skewer again and dragged green paint up to the flowers to suggest leaves & stems.

Thank you for letting me share my passion of painting!

This painting is available for sale.

Contact me at (517) 230-6181 or pam@pamharden.com Website: www.pamharden.com

Painting is for sale.

16 x 20” not framed

CELLULAR REPAIR | AESTHETICS | LUXURY AIRBRUSH TANNING

1 OF 3 IN MICHIGAN TO OFFER THIS SERVICE

Earth = PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields).

Wind = Exercise with Oxygen.

Fire = Red & Near Infrared Light Therapy These three technologies simulate the elements that human life requires not only to exist, but to thrive.

To schedule a consultation call: 877-215-4674

or go to our website www.AvitaNova.org May 2020 • The Hills

55

Address

Neighborhood

List Price

Sq. Foot

Bed Bath

2500 Overglen Ct

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$1,325,000

9,080

5

6090 Standish Ct

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$1,299,000

7,384

5

3

6101 Standish Ct

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$1,298,900

7,277

6

5

6231 Heathfield Dr

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$1,195,000

7,513

5

4.5

6050 Standish Ct

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$995,000

8,448

5

6

5.5

6417 Oakencliffe

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$995,000

8,084

6

7

6268 Mereford Ct

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$979,900

8,551

6

6.5

2448 Pine Hollow Dr

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$889,900

6,160

4

5

6446 Ridgepond Pl

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$799,900

6,261

5

4

6257 Mereford Ct

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$699,000

3,989

4

3.5

6235 Pine Hollow Dr

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$692,500

5,207

4

4.5

6181 Whitehills Lake Dr

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$689,900

4,877

5

5

6161 Whitehills Lakes Dr

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$672,500

4,018

4

3

6410 E Island Lake

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$639,900

4,934

4

5

6420 East Island Lake

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$555,000

5,165

6

5

16577 Thorngate

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$550,000

4,233

4

3.5

6014 Southridge Rd

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$519,900

3,318

5

3.5

6241 Windrush

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$499,900

4,440

4

4

6211 Whitehills Lake

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$499,000

4,137

4

5

16878 Thorngate

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$489,900

4,004

4

4

6183 Graebear

The Cove at Whitehills Lakes

$359,000

2909

3

3

6391 Pine Hollow Dr

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$94,000

Lot .51 Acre

16900 Pine Hollow Dr

Whitehills Lakes/Woods

$59,900

Lot .38 Acre

56 The Hills â&#x20AC;˘ May 2020

MULTI-LAYERED

Print & Digital Publications

Digital Advertising

Facebook and Instagram Remarketing

Secure Hosting Protection you can count on providing online privacy for both you and your customers.

Responsive Design Whatever device, your customers get the best experience while they’re visiting your site.

SEO Optimized Be easily and clearly discovered on the web when potential customers search.

Responsive Websites:

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Three neighborhoods: Whitehills Lakes/Woods/Cove Whitehills Estates Hiawatha Lakes/Spring Lake New Homeowners: BeLocal Greater Lansing Responsive Website Design

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M O O R E L I F E H E A LT H . C O M • F A C E B O O K . C O M / M O O R E L I F E H E A LT H 1 0 2 0 E S A G I N AW S T R E E T, L A N S I N G , M I 4 8 9 0 6 • 5 1 7 - 7 8 1 - 4 8 8 4 May 2020 • The Hills

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Written by Elizabeth McCabe

sponsor spotlight

The Ticket Machine Team Photo Credit: Hoffman Photography

The Ticket Machine Grab a Front Row Seat!

“I’ve always been involved in sports and going to sporting events,” says Brian Posey, owner of The Ticket Machine. He always knew how to get tickets to the Tigers, Red Wings games, and concerts. Little did he know that this trait would serve him well in life.

He attended Michigan State, and, shortly after, his business fell in his lap. One day he bought tickets to the Notre Dame game, looked up numbers in the Yellow pages (for ticket brokers), where he found a buyer willing to pay a premium for the seats. The rest is history.

“I looked for him every Saturday at Wherehouse Records and I would buy tickets for him,” says Brian. He started to realize, “Why am I buying tickets for just one guy?” With Wherehouse Records all over the state, he and his friends would go there and buy concert tickets for Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, and all the surrounding areas, including Ontario. They would then visit various cities, such as Chicago, check out the entertainment brokers or ticket brokers in the Yellow Pages, and call them to sell them tickets.

58 The Hills • May 2020

Brian explains that his business assumed a new form once the internet became popular. He sold tickets on eBay before StubHub came out and other avenues. He soon had a budding business on his hands. He started out buying only concert tickets before purchasing tickets to events of all sorts, selling them to brokers all over the Internet and people in different states.

Through the years, Brian built a network of connections in different states. He can see other ticket brokers’ online inventory and match his customers’ needs with the existing availability of tickets.

Tickets can be sent via FedEx or other methods of delivery.

Customers turn to Brian and his dedicated staff for tickets because they have a lot of helpful tips to make people’s events a success. They can also any questions or concerns that their customers might have. These might include — What seats are the best for the event? Or how can you avoid the sunlight at a 7 p.m. game in your eyes? Or what seats are best for an older person?

Fortunately, Brian and his team can help people maximize their experience with their knowledge. As Brian says, “It’s not just about getting tickets; we know the venues and the seats.”

Brian started his business in the basement of his house before moving to their current location on 4480 S Hagadorn Road #105. They are located at the corner of Mt. Hope Avenue and Hagadorn.

Brian has some impressive memorabilia in his possession, including from the 1954 Rose Bowl and the 2014 Rose Bowl. These include the end zone field goal pads as well as helmets. But the biggest draw is the Breslin center court of their original floor from when they won the national championship. He also has Breslin lockers signed by NBA players.

Currently, The Ticket Machine is in its 21st year in business and Brian employs seven full-time staff and five part-time employees. He even hires Michigan State students, providing a scholarship in addition to their pay.

“They work with us every year,” he says. “One of them will be taking a full-time job when he graduates in the spring.” He adds, “I wouldn’t be here without my employees. I am proud of them.” He says, “My favorite part [of my job] is coming to work every day with my employees.”

Brian also believes in giving back to others. The Ticket Machine serves as a collection location for Toys for Tots, each year bringing in more and more toys. Brian had the opportunity to see their distribution center a few years ago, which was very impressive.

“We’re happy to be a part of Toys for Tots,” says Brian.

The Ticket Machine also gives back to the Ronald McDonald House, the main charity of the National Association of Ticket Brokers (NATB). Brian and his dedicated team help out with the golf outing each year.

The Ticket Machine is part of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Detroit Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Chamber

May 2020 • The Hills

59

of Commerce, the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau, Small Business Association of Michigan, and the National Association of Ticket Brokers.

We are honored to feature The Ticket Machine in our Sponsor Spotlight this month. For more information, check out their website, theticketmachine.com.

The Ticket Machine 4480 S Hagadorn Road, #105 Okemos, MI 48864 888-887-4411 theticketmachine.com

60 The Hills â&#x20AC;˘ May 2020

Creating paradise in Mid-Michigan one yard at a time.

LANDSCAPE DESIGN, HARDSCAPING, AND PLANTING. Follow us on

13227 Watson Rd. | Bath, MI, 48808 | (517) 515-1723 | budbranchblossom.com May 2020 â&#x20AC;¢ The Hills

61

monthly puzzle

62 The Hills â&#x20AC;¢ May 2020

CONTRACTOR WORD SEARCH

The partnership between the Spartan Auto Group and Capitol National Bank has been founded on a strong personal relationship.

Both organizations’ 35 years of success has been driven by delivering exceptional service to our clients and supporting our community.

- Rosario Criscuolo, President/Owner of Spartan Auto Group

Smaller Bank. Bigger Service.

“Serving you since 1982” Member FDIC

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It is time to think differently about dog daycare and boarding!

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Follow our progress and watch for grand opening specials and open house opportunities on Facebook and doggonefunmi.com Taking reservations now for spring vacations.

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May 2020 • The Hills

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