517 B U S I N E S S
A N D
OLD TOWN, NEW TRICKS
CONCIERGE OF CHARCUTERIE
Lansing neighborhood district looks to reengage shoppers
On the Record with Silas and Lindsey Coffelt of Graze Craze
L I F E
More than a role, Santa is a calling for Roger Weyersberg
PLUS! Food, Friends and Local Farms are the Focus at ELFCO Notable News December 2023
Good Reads and more!
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publisher’s note
T
Small Kindnesses Build and Bind a Community
he Greater Lansing region has no shortage of local gems that put a polish on the community and make the area shine and sparkle by their professional undertakings and endeavors; however, the true measure of the health of a community can best be gauged by how well we are caring for those among us who need help. This issue of 517 Magazine is focused on the coming holidays and the value of shopping local. There’s no question when it comes to the importance of supporting independent entrepreneurs and what their businesses bring to the table to buoy the economic viability of our region. Yet the season of giving isn’t solely about the giving of gifts; it’s also about the giving of our true character. Not to get too mawkishly saccharine about it, but there is something softly magical about this season that sheds away the accumulated armor used to shield ourselves throughout the year. We become a bit more considerate and more easily turn our thoughts to the plights of those around us. There is no shortage of worthy organizations in our community that rely on the abundance of kindness and generosity so top of mind during this month. Many of these organizations depend on these last few weeks of each year to meet their goals and expectations in bettering lives across Greater Lansing, and the people they serve depend on these services to endure the trying times they find themselves in through cause or circumstance. Charitable giving is a practice that best nourishes the spirit when it’s practiced throughout the year; however, there are friends and neighbors in our community who are struggling right now through moments of personal crises. There are typically two outcomes in times of crisis. It can shred the fabric of community from the outside inward or it can unite those threads together in an even tighter unbreakable bond. The small act of choosing goodwill this holiday season helps our local community endure, improve and aspire to greater heights. I am so proud to call you my friends, family and neighbors, and I am even prouder to call this generous and selfless community my home. Spend local, serve local, and have a peaceful and pleasant holiday season.
Tiffany Dowling Publisher
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517 Business and Life, Volume 5, Issue 10, December 2023.
Publisher Tiffany Dowling tiffany@m3group.biz
517 Business and Life (USPS#020-807) is published monthly by M3 Group at 221 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933. Periodicals postage paid at Lansing, Michigan.
Managing Editor Mary Gajda mary@m3group.biz
Subscriptions: Subscriptions are available at $22 per year for postage and handling or $38 for two years. Call 517-203-3333 or visit 517mag.com to subscribe. Postmaster: Send address changes to 517 Business and Life, 221 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933. Copyright @2023. 517 Business and Life. All rights reserved. Editorial office: 221 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933. 517mag.com
we want to hear from you! Letters must be signed and include the writer’s name and address. Please send to: 517 Magazine, 221 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933, or email info@517mag.com. Paid advertorials appear in 517 Business and Life, including print and other digital formats, and are marked with the words Special Advertisement. 517 Business and Life does not endorse or evaluate the claims made by the special advertisements and views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or owner. Advertising does not influence editorial decisions or content.
Chief Strategy Officer Shelley Davis Boyd Senior Creative Visionary Kathryn Aspin kathryn@m3group.biz Lead Editor Christopher Nagy Editor Stacy Bogard Contributors Rich Adams Shelley Davis Boyd Kyle Dowling Mary Gajda Christine MacIntyre Metro Melik Christopher Nagy Stephanie Murray Omar Sofradzija Graphic Designers Audrey Spring Kameron Chauvez Account Executives Megan Fleming megan@m3group.biz Photographers Mary Gajda Metro Melik Nicholas Richardson M3 Group 221 W. Saginaw St. Lansing, MI 48933 P 517-203-3333 Subscription subscribe@517mag.com
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COLLABORATION CURES! Well, your toe bone’s connected to your foot bone. Your foot bone’s connected to your heel bone. Your heel bone’s connected to your ankle bone … and on and on it goes! Remember that children’s song, “Dem Bones,” from the late 1800s, reminding us that every part of the body is connected to every other part? In a world full of medical sub-specialties, that’s important to recollect. It was the late 1700s — only a moment ago in human history — that medical science separated the body into systems to narrow the focus for the purpose of study. The heart went to the Cardiologists, the lungs to the Pulmonologists, the skin to the Dermatologist, and on and on it goes! Incidentally, while medical students complete their exploratory rotations through each of these specialty silos, the silo belonging to the mouth was given to the dentists and left out of medical education all together. What a disservice, since the mouth exhibits early telltale signs of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, sleep/breathing disorders, food sensitivities, systemic fungal infections, nutrient deficiencies, and on and on it goes! In this century, our everyday lifestyle problems are the downstream debts of nutrition, daily movement, quality sleep and mental tranquility. And they tend to impact all our human organs and systems, somewhat simultaneously. It’s time to consider putting the body back together. That means reassembling an interdisciplinary team to address even the most prevalent diseases we see today from a collaborative approach, and one that addresses root cause rather than relying on a patchwork of medications.
Health care professionals are among the most caring individuals you will ever meet. They are generally drawn to healing professions because of an innate desire to care for and serve others. Unfortunately, it doesn’t always feel that way. As the demand for care increases, so must their haste. And the resulting stress and burnout they experience has never been greater. Here are a few things you can do to help encourage interdisciplinary collaboration. Ask good questions and take good notes. Listen to your medical professionals, which demonstrates trust. Ask what they would do if the situation was impacting themselves or a loved one. Follow through with further testing, as advised. Share your own observations and medical opinions. Ask if there is anyone else you should be consulting. And request that they share their findings and recommendations with the other health professionals on your care team. After reading this, if you feel you have individuals on your care team who you don’t trust to look at root cause and collaborate with others, keep looking. They’re out there.
Dr. Susan Maples is a dentist in Holt. She is also a speaker, health educator, and author of “BlabberMouth! 77 Secrets Only Your Mouth Can Tell You to Live a Healthier, Happier, Sexier Life” and “Brave Parent: Raising Healthy, Happy Kids (Against All Odds) in Today’s World.” Reach her at Susan@DrSusanMaples.com
Of course, that’s easier said than done.
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contents
Dec. 2023
11 Old Town New Tricks Lansing neighborhood district looks to reengage shoppers
35 A Hero for the Holidays More than a role, Santa is a calling for Roger Weyersberg
Business feature: Beth Herendeen/Twiggies 517 5
contents
On the cover: Roger Weyersberg
business SNAPSHOT 8 AREA A Snapshot of Local Business News Affecting the 517
TRENDS 14 BIZ Cause for Celebration TIPS 15 BIZ Supporting Local is More Than Giving Back
NEWS 18 NOTABLE Professional Highlights from the 517 Region
22 STATE/NATIONAL A Brief Look at State and National News Affecting our Region
26 Concierge of Charcuterie ON THE RECORD
An interview with Silas and Lindsey Coffelt of Graze Craze
27 Making the Leap
PERSPECTIVE
lifestyle 30 PLACES What’s in a Name?
Williamston diners are flocking to That New Place in the city
AND DIY 32 DESIGN Don’t Start From Scratch
Simple and sustainable holiday decorating
READS 38 GOOD Taming of the Scrooge
Five books to stuff in stockings
41 RECIPE A Toast to the Holidays
Three-ingredient cranberry champagne cocktail
SPOTLIGHT 43 NONPROFIT A Bowl Full of Jelly – and Then Some Work of Porch Santa benefits Holt Community Food Bank
44 PLAY Visit 517living.com for More Lansing-Area Activities
A Q&A with Christopher Haman and Tosha Haman-Hettler of Toads Coffee
DEPARTMENTS
2 PUBLISHER’S NOTE 45 WRAP UP
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AREA SNAPSHOT p.8 BIZ TRENDS p.14 BIZ TIPS p.15 NOTABLE NEWS p.18 STATE/NATIONAL p.22 ON THE RECORD p.26 PERSPECTIVE p.27
SHOW UP … AND SHOP LOCAL It may be convenient to order something online from a large box retailer, and that’s OK — but there is a strong reason to shop local. It’s an investment in the future of your community. Think of it this way: We care about the environment by recycling, reducing the use of plastic, upcycling, etc. We care about others by supporting causes, crowdfunding campaigns and simply showing up when needed. Local businesses are asking us to show up. Showing up to shop local is about fostering a vibrant economy where small businesses thrive. It creates job opportunities and sustains local livelihoods. It means valuing locally made craftsmanship, locally sourced products and locally produced services. By shopping local, we are investing in the future of our communities, we are promoting sustainable practices and we are reducing the environmental impact caused by extensive transportation. Happy holiday shopping this season — and consider local when you do. It’s right outside your door.
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business / AREA SNAPSHOT
A snapshot of local business news affecting the 517
UNDERSTANDING MUSIC LICENSING BY RICH ADAMS
Recent news about East Lansing’s Dublin Square facing hefty fines from a federal lawsuit alleging the bar played music without paying the required licensing fees has prompted conversation about what the rules are for playing music to the public. The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers announced in October it filed copyright infringement actions against 12 bars and restaurants nationwide, arising out of the unauthorized public performance of its members’ copyrighted musical works. ASCAP Executive Vice President Stephanie Ruyle said bars and restaurants coming out of the pandemic have used music to lure customers back to their venues, but some have failed to resume paying licensing fees. “Each of the establishments sued today has decided to use music without paying its creators. By filing these actions, ASCAP is standing up for songwriters whose music is essential to those businesses and their customers,” Ruyle explained in a news release. According to Terry Stevens, operations manager for the Midwest Communications group of Lansing-area radio stations and brand
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manager for rock station Q106, most venues that use protected music pay licensing fees. “At the end of the day, music has value, songwriting has value; and if you’re going to decorate the space you inhabit with sound, then the people who created the sound you’re decorating your space with are entitled to compensation,” Stevens said. He said some establishments don’t violate the copyright laws intentionally but rather because they are not aware of the need for a license. “If you’re doing business in more than a one-stoplight town, you should probably keep (licensing fees) up to date,” Stevens said. Even the presence of a jukebox in an establishment requires payment of ASCAP fees, Stevens explained. “It’s up to the bar to pay. A jukebox is simply a content delivery device,” he said. “If you’re going to have public performance of music in your venue or on your radio station, if you are a commercial enterprise and going to have a public performance of that music, you have to pay your ASCAP licensing fee.”
business / AREA SNAPSHOT
FOOD, FRIENDS AND LOCAL FARMS ARE THE FOCUS AT ELFCO BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY
For just over a year, an oasis in the food desert of one of Lansing’s most eclectic neighborhoods has been serving up a plate of convenience with a side of community closeness. Since opening in the Allen Neighborhood Center in October 2022, the Eastside Lansing Food Co-op, 1605 E. Kalamazoo St., has become a staple of resourcefulness for daily staples and resources sought by residents in the northeast quadrant of the city. “I would describe it as an innovative hybrid that is both a distribution hub for locally grown and produced food products, as well as a neighborhood grocery serving the low- to moderateincome neighborhood known as the eastside,” Joan Nelson, longtime member and volunteer at ELFCO and former director of the Allen Neighborhood Center. “But it is also a community gathering space and a spot for neighbors meeting one another for morning coffee or business people meeting with clients and others. So, it has multiple missions and activities, but the first two are the most critical.” Area photos and artwork line the walls above refrigerated cases and repurposed shelving is stocked from tip to toe with assorted provisions and perishables necessary to complete any dining room table at any price point; however, it’s the focus on and function with local that makes ELFCO so unique. “There is not another real grocery store for a mile and a half
any direction. But if you look at other grocery stores, they’re not buying from local, and they are not paying the money up front. We do that here,” said Sally Potter, ELFCO general manager. “We have paid over $110,000 in one year to local farmers for meat, dairy, fruits and vegetables. When the farmers bring it in, they talk to our produce manager and they make an arrangement for what we need, and we pay up front. It’s not on consignment. The farmers like that a lot.” That relationship provides a direct link from the region’s smallfarming contingent to the community needs. “The eastside is the agricultural pulse, the urban agricultural pulse, of the region,” said Nelson. “There are about a dozen farms located right in our ZIP code, 48912. Most of them are actually just south of Kalamazoo in the Urbandale neighborhood.” “And we buy from those farms on a regular basis. We are open 59 hours a week, seven days,” Potter added. “We open at 10 o’clock every day. … As a farmer, you can’t get that exposure to the public unless you have a 12-year-old kid who likes to hang out in a farm stand. We are a place where they can sell their products, and we’ll take the risk. We can decide on a wholesale price that’s higher than they can get anywhere else, we sell it at a fair price and we’re doing it on volume.”
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business / AREA SNAPSHOT NUBIAN GRADUATES FROM BUSINESS ACCELERATOR BY RICH ADAMS
A Lansing store showcasing African culture, beauty and fashion has become the 13th enterprise to graduate from the Downtown Lansing Inc. business accelerator program, Middle Village Micro Market. Nubian, created in 2022 by Rihab Musa, celebrated opening its brick-and-mortar store in September at 120 S. Washington Square in downtown Lansing. “We are thrilled to introduce Nubian to the Lansing community and beyond. Our vision is to create a space that not only showcases the immense beauty of African culture but also fosters cross-cultural understanding and appreciation,” said Musa. “Through our carefully curated collection, we aim to highlight the talent, craftsmanship and innovation of African designers while promoting sustainable and ethical practices.” Middle Village not only assists entrepreneurs with establishing storefronts, but it also helps lower the barriers to success by offering access to vital resources, programming and training, said Shakayla Zoss, Downtown Lansing Inc. marketing and brand specialist. “The goal of the business accelerator program is that after businesses like Nubian have completed the yearlong program, they will have the capital and clientele to graduate and have the support to
open their very own brick-and-mortar location,” Zoss said. In addition to the retail business, Nubian will host regular events and workshops, inviting local artists, designers and influencers to share their insights and expertise, said Musa. Zoss said 100% of the graduating Middle Village businesses have been women-owned enterprises or owned by people from various racial and ethnic backgrounds. All are still in business today.
FEATURE
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FEATURE
hat’s old is new again. Lansing’s Old Town has the distinction of being the city’s original shopping and boutique district, but business owners are putting a new shine to the area in the hope of reminding shoppers and diners that the historic neighborhood is built to last. “There has been a noticeable difference in the slower foot traffic in Old Town” in 2023, said Beth Herendeen, the owner of Twiggies mercantile and florist at 106 E. Cesar E. Chavez Ave. and president of the Old Town Commercial Association. “I see it as a reason to talk about it and find ways to draw folks to the area, reintroducing them to all the goodness that Old Town has and rethinking the way things are done and start spreading the
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word that Old Town is vibrant and worth making a trip here.” That includes reengaging patrons, identifying new demographics for engagement, and promoting not only the unique businesses that represent Old Town but services and some of the areas that might not get highlighted, like its nightlife. “There are reasons to come to Old Town, and the Greater Lansing area is going to begin to hear more about those through social media engagement, promotions of events, businesses and some new events that a group here is working on for the holiday season,” Herendeen said. “What I know about the folks in Old Town is that they are passionate, caring, loving people who may not always see eye to eye on how or why; but, at the end of the day, the goals ultimately are the same — and we, as a community, work together to make things happen and cheer each other on to successes.”
Sparking Renewed Interest in Old Town There have been several actions taken to get Old Town fully back on track. Among those are changes in commercial association leadership roles, including: • Selecting former board member Samantha Benson as executive director. • Leveraging the Michigan Economic Development Corp.’s Michigan Main Street program, a framework providing communities the tools and resources to bolster economic and community development and vibrancy. • Launching a grant-funded advertising campaign over the summer to promote various events and highlight businesses. • Addressing areas of concern raised by Old Town stakeholders. “We have really tried hard to bring things together for the community. I can tell you that with things like this, it’s a process,
FEATURE and a lot of work happens from people willing to step in and step up,” Herendeen said. Still, more support would be helpful. “I want to touch on the funding issues that Old Town faces. COVID really did a number on us here,” Herendeen said. “We typically have had some generous partnership sponsors that help fund events, and our stream of revenue comes from various aspects of those events, which are basically run by volunteer groups within committees and very committed Old Town stakeholders. “Volunteers have been harder to reach,” she added. “Sourcing funds through corporate funding and getting folks to understand that partnering and having relationships in Old Town is a winning combination,” she said. Taking a Chance and Seeing Success Herendeen isn’t just asking others to take a chance on Old Town. She did it herself not too long ago, relocating during the COVID-19 pandemic from DeWitt. She said the risks of moving were necessary to keep her customer base growing. “I took a chance, and Old Town turned
out to be exactly where I belong and should be,” she said. For 2024, Herendeen’s goals for the Old Town community include the continued building and fostering of relationships and partnerships, including the volunteer base; enabling the capacity to bring well-planned and well-executed events to Old Town; and looking at grants and other avenues to build a stream of revenue to make that all happen. She hopes the efforts will make it worth a visit for mid-Michiganders soon. “There is plenty of reason for people to explore and reintroduce themselves to Old Town,” Herendeen said. “There is something so special about small-business owners and being part of a community that works together with so much pride in where they live, do business, and become involved and take ownership in actions to make it all come together. “Old Town is truly a place that is like no other that I have experienced,” she added. “Like many things that have been around a while, they are cherished but need to be polished up a little bit to allow them to shine again. That’s where we are right now.”
I took a chance, and Old Town turned out to be exactly where I belong and should be.
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business / BIZ TRENDS
CAUSE FOR CELEBRATION FIVE WAYS TO HELP EMPLOYEES GIVE BACK BY 517 STAFF ’Tis the season for giving. While thoughts more swiftly turn toward charitable endeavors at this time of the year, it’s also an ideal opportunity to consider how your business can capitalize on helping your employees support the local community all year long by implementing a give-back program in the workplace. Here’s five tips to get started in 2024.
Ask, Don’t Tell
a s that demonstrate how There are plenty of studie rs rke wo s a company engage culture of giving back in not s let’ — e onc y, but — for and increases productivit t wan s yee plo em r you at ut wh talk about you. This is abo rts. hea ir d near and dear to the and what causes they hol out from your workers to find ck dba fee Gather input and to like uld wo y the agencies what charitable issues and efit. ben rt effo and e tim ir see the
A Match Made in Heave
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Don’t just talk the talk. Walk the walk by putting your money where your mouth is. Giving back is going to put a nice polish on the company brand, but this isn’t about corpor ate philanthropy. It’s about something that is employee-driven. Be the leader others follow by offering a company match for donations. A whopp ing 84% of donors said they’re likely to donate if a match is involved.
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Workers aren’t just loo king for employers wh o share their values, they’re als o looking for ways to giv e. On study showed tha t 86% of employees wa nt the opportunity to particip ate in corporate giving . You can help them fulfill this need by making it eas y as possible. Whether tha t is something as simple as setting up a donation bin or giving them pai d tim e off to volunteer, giving bac k doesn’t have to be a chore.
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business / BIZ TIPS
SUPPORTING LOCAL IS MORE THAN GIVING BACK BY SHELLEY DAVIS BOYD
The holiday season has always held a special place in my heart. Those who know me understand what an understatement that is. It’s the time of year when excitement abounds, the scents of the season are in the air, and the joy of giving and spending time with the people we love the most takes center stage. For me, and I’m sure for many others, it’s also the time I ratchet up my spending on holiday gifts for the people in my life — and maybe even a little something for myself. It warms my heart during this season of giving to support our local businesses. As a local businesswoman and small-business owner, I have always made it a point to support the businesses in my community. It’s not just because it’s the right thing to do; it’s because there’s something profoundly fulfilling about spending my hard-earned dollars with people whose names and faces I recognize. There’s a sense of loyalty and support that comes with it — a connection that goes beyond the simple act of a transaction. But let’s be honest here. Supporting local businesses isn’t just about being a good neighbor; it’s a little bit selfish, too. When we choose to spend our money at local shops, we’re investing in the very heart and soul of our community. These businesses are the backbone of our neighborhoods; and by supporting them, we’re helping to ensure that they and we continue to thrive. When I walk into a local establishment, like Twiggies, Corey’s Lounge or Salt Yoga, it’s not just an exchange of money for goods, delicious food or self-care; it’s a chance to chat with the owner or longtime employees, to learn about their story and to understand the passion that drives them. The personal touch and the genuine smiles are priceless. There’s something undeniably rewarding knowing that my purchase is helping them fulfill their dreams.
These local businesses are the ones that have taken a leap of faith to set up shop and chase the American dream. They pour their heart, time, resources and soul into their organizations, and they deserve our support. By choosing to shop locally, we are contributing to preserving the uniqueness of our community and keeping the spirit of entrepreneurship alive. So, as the holiday season approaches, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the impact you can make through your spending choices. Remember that supporting local businesses isn’t just about giving back; it’s about nurturing the essence of our neighborhoods knowing you’ve made a positive difference in the lives of your neighbors.
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SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT
According to a study by Teachers College at Columbia University, up to 80% of community college students work at least part time. Thirty-nine percent work full time, nearly twice as many as work full-time jobs at four-year schools. Fourteen percent of undergraduate students at four-year colleges and universities receive federal work-study aid, but – at community colleges, that number drops to just 2%.
GIVING AMBITION:
THE FOUNDATION MAKES LEARNING POSSIBLE AT LANSING’S COLLEGE BY ANDY BRENT
Education is essential to communities because it enables progress toward common goals. In the Lansing area, education is a big deal. It drives economies, bolsters industry and is an employment sector for many. Education is also expensive. And for community college students, that expense can often seem almost insurmountable. At Lansing Community College (LCC), a constant effort is made to bridge the gap between the cost of education and the motivation and ability of deserving students. That effort is called the LCC Foundation. The Foundation awards more than $400,000 in scholarships to students in need each academic year, training nurses, police officers, lineworkers, fire fighters and other essential personnel in mid-Michigan communities, and otherwise makes education possible by identifying common financial obstacles to education, and surmounting these through donation and stewardship of funds.
Nationally, more than 17% of community college students live in households that report food insecurity. In 2020, more than 21% of community college students reported rent difficulty, with 18% unable to pay their rent at all. Community college students are also more likely to be parents than are students at four-year colleges and universities, and many face housing and food insecurities on top of full academic and work schedules. Additionally, more than 20% of women at community colleges are single parents. In 2017, 60% of community college students reported an unexpected expense of more than $500 would be beyond the limits of their credit or savings. LCC knows helping students graduate requires combatting these issues. The Foundation works directly with donors to put the funds necessary for success in the hands of students. The Student Textbook Support Scholarship fund, for example, addresses issues pertaining to the cost of textbooks and other classroom materials. Eighty-two percent of college instructors and professors believe textbooks cost too much. That is because the cost of books can force students to try and find the material for free online, or simply to try and do their work without the required reading materials. A study by the Public Interest Research Groups found that two- thirds of undergraduate students skipped buying or renting required materials because they could not afford to do so. The Foundation counters this issue, offering textbook support of up to $300 per academic year to any LCC student enrolled in at least six credit hours per semester who maintains a minimum 2.0 GPA and who demonstrates financial need. Beyond tuition, books and lab fees, community college students feel the pressures of real-world expenses more severely than do their peers. To address this further and often more immediate need, the Foundation operates “LCC Cares.” The LCC Foundation’s LCC Cares initiative provides students with necessary support and advice, and donations to LCC Cares are distributed directly to students. The emergency fund helps students facing housing insecurity, food insecurity, unreliable transportation and childcare costs.
“LCC students are smart, driven people with clear goals for the future in mind. Their goals build and sustain our community and contribute to a bright regional future. ”
Former LCC student and Foundation scholarship recipient Tyler N. knows the importance of the Foundation to LCC students in need firsthand. “These are things that people need,” Tyler said, speaking of LCC Cares emergency funds. “There are single parents out there who have trouble paying their bills. And there are student parents, and there are students like me, who come from bad neighborhoods, who are trying to get an education and improve their lives. The Foundation makes education possible for us.” LCC Associate Vice President for External Affairs, Development and K-12 Operations Toni Glasscoe believes LCC Cares could bridge necessary gaps for those students struggling in an uncertain economy. “LCC students are smart, driven people with clear goals for the future in mind. Their goals build and sustain our community and contribute to a bright regional future. Unfortunately, some students cannot meet their goals simply because they are hungry or do not have a safe, warm place to study and rest at night,” Glasscoe said. “Many students also face transportation issues, and even small emergencies can be devastating for students without means. LCC Cares was created so students can thrive.” The comprehensive support offered to LCC students by the Foundation’s efforts in philanthropy extend to graduation ceremonies. As with all other expenses common to community college students, the cost of a cap and gown to wear at graduation – even the renting of these garments – can be out of reach. This year, the LCC Alumni Committee (itself a Foundation initiative) is raising funds to purchase caps and gowns for each student who participates in commencement. This recognition on part of the Alumni Committee brings full circle the work and sacrifices required to achieve a degree or certificate as a community college student. Because of their efforts, all eligible students may participate in the upcoming annual spring commencement ceremony in their cap and gown. All of the above-described assistance comes from concerned donors who wish to make an impact in their community. Those who wish to contribute to the Foundation, and assist the rise of countless young learners in mid-Michigan, should visit lcc.edu/foundation to find their opportunity to spread joy this holiday season.
Photography by Kevin Fowler
business / NOTABLE NEWS
PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 517 REGION Elderly Instruments Named America’s Top Small Business Lansing’s Elderly Instruments has been recognized as America’s Top Small Business at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Small Business Summit. The recognition highlights Elderly Instruments’ outstanding contribution
to the world of music and its unwavering commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within the music industry. “The rest of the country is finding out what we already know — Elderly Instruments is one of the best,” said Lansing Mayor Andy Schor. “I am thrilled that this Lansing small business is being recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. After 51 years in Lansing, Elderly Instruments continues to be a leader in our community and an excellent example of small business making a big difference in the city of Lansing.”
U-M Health Announces Regional Finance Vice President Matt Nobis has been named regional vice president of finance Matt Nobis for University of Michigan Health, acting as Regional President Margaret Dimond’s key financial adviser in guiding the regional system
Value-driven plans. More resources. Better business benef its.
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that includes Sparrow Health System and University of Michigan Health-West. Nobis has served as director of finance/ controller of Sparrow Health System since April 2020. Nobis is also active in the community, serving on the board of directors of Sparrow Clinton Hospital, Sparrow Development Inc. and Ingham Health Plan, as well as on the advisory board of Mary Free Bed at Sparrow. ATHENA Honors Two Local Women ATHENA International honored Julie Pingston with the 2023 ATHENA Leadership Award and named
Julie Pingston
Justine Bell as a 2024 ATHENA PowerLink recipient. Pingston is president and CEO of Choose Lansing. She will formally receive her award Justine Bell at the annual ATHENA Lansing Celebration. Bell is the owner of BeneGuides. ATHENA PowerLink is a national mentoring program that connects chosen women business owners with a skilled advisory panel. The specified panel of advisers will donate an estimated $25,000 value of business consultation services to help her business achieve the next level of success. As the 2024 recipient, Bell will have the opportunity to work with an
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advisory panel that is specifically tailored to meet her business goals. MSU Museum Selected for Craft Legacy Project The Michigan State University Museum, a Smithsonian affiliate, is one of four organizations selected to take part in a project through the Smithsonian’s Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage to expand the visibility of underrepresented local elder African American artisans. The project — Cultural Sustainability and Legacy Planning for Craft Artists — was conceived to assist makers in safeguarding their stories while building relationships among artists, between elders and youth, and with local cultural institutions. “The MSU Museum is proud to expand its robust collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution on another project aimed at
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business / NOTABLE NEWS ews our n COM y t i bm AG.
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advancing research and enhancing public engagement,” said Devon Akmon, museum director. “Furthermore, we’re excited to partner with the Michigan Traditional Arts Program and Matrix: Center for Digital Humanities and Social Sciences to bring this project to fruition.”
services while exemplifying a commitment to excellence. Over the decades, DTN has transformed Greater Lansing’s landscape and expanded its reach into multiple metropolitan areas, including Grand Rapids, Traverse City and Metro Detroit.
Mary Gardner
Capital City Apartments Gains Recognition Recent renovations at Capital City Apartments in Lansing have earned national recognition for the Lansing Housing Commission. The National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials selected the Lansing Housing Commission project for its Award of Merit, the organization’s highest honor, in the project design category. The commission was one of eight public housing projects recognized nationally by the national association during its annual conference. Completed this year, the Capital City Apartments’ renovations were part of a 9% LIHTC award of over $13 million from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority. Since 2020, the commission has invested over $65 million in renovations to over 550 units in the city. DTN Celebrates 50 Years DTN Management Co. commemorated a significant milestone of 50 years as developers and managers in the real estate industry. Established by Tom Kuschinski and Nick Uppal, DTN Management Co. has set the benchmark for comprehensive real estate
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Sparrow Clinton Gives BEE Award to Caregiver Sparrow Clinton Hospital Lead Phlebotomist Mary Gardner has received the BEE Award for her patience, professionalism, and continuously going above and beyond. The BEE Award recognizes excellence among nonclinical support caregivers who contribute to Sparrow Clinton’s quality, compassionate care. The acronym BEE stands for Being Exceptional Every day. Gardner’s nomination reads, “Mary is by far the sweetest, most caring team leader I’ve ever known. She goes above and beyond the call to demonstrate how to care for others. Through what could be considered the hardest year of one’s life, she still manages to always show up and lead this team with patience, professionalism, understanding and the utmost concern for us all. Mary deserves to be recognized for being the best.” Bryan Honored by U.N. Association Willye Bryan of Lansing has been recognized as a 2023 Global Goals – Local Leader by the Greater Lansing chapter of the United Nations Association at the U.N. Day Celebration. Bryan founded the Justice League of Greater Lansing in 2021 to address the
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racial wealth gap. The nonprofit organization created a faith-based reparations model. It builds relationships with white houses of worship and employs education to link the hundreds of years of systemic, structural racism with the need for increasing wealth equity for African Americans. Martin Waymire Promotes Bauer Martin Waymire promoted Bridgette Bauer to public affairs manager. Bauer has grown to lead client teams such as the Michigan Library Association, Anderson Economic Group, Michigan State University Health Sciences and the Michigan Organization for Nursing Leadership. She also plays a role in supporting digital and communications strategies for clients including the Michigan Association of Health Plans, Michigan Health and Hospital Association, Michigan Future Inc., and the Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association, among others.
Ly Wins DAISY Award for Nurses McLaren Greater Lansing nurse Zachary Ly was honored with the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. The award is part of the DAISY Foundation’s program to recognize the exceptional care nurses provide every day. Ly was recognized by hospital leadership and co-workers and received a certificate commending him for being an extraordinary nurse as well as a sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” hand-carved by artists of the Shona people in Zimbabwe.
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business / STATE/NATIONAL
A BRIEF LOOK AT STATE AND NATIONAL NEWS AFFECTING OUR REGION SIDE HUSTLES REMAIN A POPULAR MOVE TO MAKE ENDS MEET BY CHRISTINE MACINTYRE
In our fast-paced, ever-evolving world, the “side hustle” has assumed fresh importance. It’s no longer just about making ends meet; it has evolved into a dynamic expression of passion, creativity and entrepreneurial zeal. These supplementary income sources pursued alongside one’s primary job or commitments have transformed into versatile platforms where individuals breathe life into their dreams, explore innovative ideas and construct pathways toward a more fulfilling future. The U.S. side hustle market boasts a minimum worth of $2.58 trillion, as reported by Market Research. Prominent gig companies like Airbnb and Etsy dominate this landscape. A Bankrate survey revealed that nearly 39% of U.S. adults engage in side hustles, with 33% citing the need for extra income to meet daily expenses. Side hustles may not guarantee prosperity but can be profitable with varying effort levels. The choice between passive income and active work depends on your goals and resources. As he shared on Newsweek’s My Turn, Justin Cambra, a retired Amazon employee and real estate investor, earns bonus income through low-hassle side hustles. “I spend 15-30 minutes a month on the Neighbor app, making $1,000 — it’s a set-it-and-forget-it, no-hustle side hustle,” he said. While some people manage side hustles alongside full-time jobs, others turn them into careers. As a young mom and night bartender in need of extra income, Mikala Polmanteer started with Paparazzi, a jewelry and accessories multilevel marketing brand. “It was a no-brainer,” she said. She quit her bartending job after two years, retired her husband a year later and now owns Dream Crazy Boutique. She works long hours but values the flexibility it affords her to be present for her kids’ events and create lasting memories. “I work 12- to 14-hour days, more than most ‘normal’ jobs,” she said. The diversity of side hustles mirrors a broad spectrum of interests, spanning real estate, retail, wellness, fitness, marketing, sports and consumer goods. Per Dollar Sprout, service-oriented gigs like photography, cleaning or fitness training make up nearly one-third of all side hustles. An additional 30% involve the sale of handmade or new and used physical goods, while 13% cover roles in services like Uber or DoorDash. About 10% involve multilevel
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marketing businesses such as Scentsy or Tupperware. Regarding gender differences, according to Bankrate, men tend to dominate the side hustle scene, with 43% engaging in additional income-generating activities compared to 35% of women. The findings also highlight that men tend to out-earn women in side hustles. Bankrate’s research revealed that, in 2023, half of millennials and more than half of Gen Zers have a side hustle. In this multifaceted landscape, side hustles are exceedingly relevant for many reasons.
TIKTOK MADE ME BUY IT: INFLUENCER SWAY IN THE E-COMMERCE MARKET BY CHRISTINE MACINTYRE
The emergence of the TikTok Creator Marketplace has ignited a compelling debate: Could TikTok present a credible challenge to Amazon, the e-commerce behemoth? As social media platforms venture beyond entertainment and delve into serious business, the prospect of TikTok disrupting the traditional online shopping landscape is more than a mere hypothesis. A 2023 consumer culture report by 5W Public Relations found that consumers under the age of 44 are increasingly influenced to make purchases via TikTok, thanks to paid ads on social media and influencer endorsements. “TikTok made me buy it” is a popular phrase coined by the platform’s users who were swayed to purchase influencer content. Conversely, Amazon primarily serves as a dedicated shopping platform, drawing consumers with the explicit purpose of making purchases. Dara Busch, co-CEO of 5W, said that while people don’t open TikTok explicitly looking to shop, “now more than ever before, users are prepared to be shown items that they’re interested in purchasing, especially with the major rollout of TikTok Shop.” She suggested that the more people become familiarized with TikTok Shop, “users will begin opening the app with the intent to shop.” E-commerce marketing specialist Joe Karasin said that omnichannel commerce is trending. “Offering the most frictionless path to purchase is a major win, and TikTok is providing that experience in a way Amazon is not,” he said.
Consumers want entertaining, authentic experiences while discovering brands and a seamless product purchase experience. In a 2021 study by Material, consumers indicated that they mainly discover new products and brands through social media and word of mouth. Notably, influencers have incorporated Amazon links into their content. Nevertheless, TikTok offers a distinct advantage, operating as both a marketplace and a marketing platform. Consumers who splurge based on social media influencer content see the product and are introduced to it entertainingly. Dani Mechlowitz, managing director at e-commerce fulfillment provider Delta Fulfillment, said that TikTok’s dual functionality as a marketplace and marketing platform “is very appealing for business owners, especially ones in oversaturated markets where it can be difficult to stand out on Amazon.” Shoppable videos and livestreams integrated in users’ feeds make TikTok Shop an interactive, engaging option for shopping. With over 150 million active users, TikTok Shop’s diverse, interest-based content recommendations amplify marketing potential. Traditionally, consumers followed a linear progression known as the purchase funnel. Still, modern pathways are nonlinear, shaped by diverse touchpoints like social media and peer recommendations, emphasizing the importance of adaptive e-commerce strategies. According to TikTok Shop’s blog, the platform engages consumers in an infinite loop, allowing them to “enter, exit and reenter at different stages of the purchase journey.” This shift sets the stage for TikTok’s potential challenge to Amazon.
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Your vision is our mission.
Supporting Our Local Business Community
Martin Commercial Properties makes it our mission to help businesses bring their visions to life. Local businesses are the lifeblood of communities, providing more than just products and services. They create jobs, foster economic stability, and build strong social connections.
Supporting local businesses means investing in your neighborhood's future. These enterprises often offer unique, personalized experiences that larger chains cannot replicate. They contribute to the distinctive character and charm of a region, making it more attractive to residents and visitors alike. By choosing local, we can help ensure the vitality and diversity of our communities.
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business / ON THE RECORD
CONCIERGE OF CHARCUTERIE ON THE RECORD WITH SILAS AND LINDSEY COFFELT OF GRAZE CRAZE BY MARY GAJDA Lindsey and Silas Coffelt
In 2013, Silas and Lindsey Coffelt probably had no idea where meeting on the job while working for Mayberry Homes would lead them: co-workers turned into cohabitators, marrying in 2015 and building their forever home in Eaton Rapids. When Silas Coffelt turned 50 in 2022, he realized construction, which can be rough on the body, wasn’t how he wanted to spend his next chapters. Together, the two consulted with a franchise matchmaker of sorts they found on LinkedIn. The couple was drawn to the option of fresh, healthy and beautiful charcuterie offered through an emerging brand that Greater Lansing hadn’t seen. So it was that Graze Craze at 2015 Jolly Road in Okemos was brought to life last March. “Graze Craze is a popular new concept in charcuterie boards and boxes, and we provide beautiful grazing options for special events, office catering, casual lunches, celebrations and more,” Lindsey Coffelt said. “We love that we get to play a role in helping friends and families gather and create beautiful memories while enjoying a variety of fresh, high-quality food that is artfully arranged to leave a lasting impression.” Seems like a clear explanation, but the Coffelts said that explaining what they do has been the business’s biggest challenge. Picture this: The charcuterie boards at Graze Craze come in a variety of sizes, from single boxes for the lone grazer to large grazing boards with enough food for any size event. The Coffelts
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also source the highest-quality ingredients in each category. “We combine those ingredients with an artistic design, incorporating our house-made sauces, dips and jams,” Lindsey Coffelt said. The couple also did not have experience managing a foodrelated business, but they have found the process to be an exciting challenge while also providing concierge-style customer service so that every client feels the team’s dedication to each unique transaction. Team is the operative word. The Coffelts acknowledged they searched hard to find the right individuals who were a good fit for both the work and the culture — and the success of the venture makes the work worth it. “Our mantra, celebrate everything, starts in the early morning when our team members arrive to work,” Lindsey Coffelt said. “They know that every order placed at Graze Craze has a special meaning. Any given day, you could be a store manager celebrating a job well done or a customer celebrating life with friends and family. At Graze Craze, we celebrate everything.” As for what the future holds, the Coffelts are open to the possibilities. “We do have our eye on a couple of different markets and could possibly open another store within the next five years,” Lindsey Coffelt said. “This is a brand we really believe in.”
business / PERSPECTIVE
MAKING THE LEAP A Q&A WITH CHRISTOPHER HAMAN AND TOSHA HAMAN-HETTLER OF TOADS COFFEE BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY
When did Toads Coffee open, and how/why did you get into the coffee arena? Toads opened its doors to the public in early March of 2022. The decision to open up a coffee shop/eatery was emphasized by the positivity and unity that the coffee shop/cafe atmosphere facilitates. Where did the name come from? The name is derived from a childhood nickname given to one of the founders. Although this nickname is only rarely used by close family members, we soon began to appreciate all the fun things we could do with these simple five letters and logos.
Why did you settle on Grand Ledge for the business, and how have you incorporated the community into the ambience of the establishment? Grand Ledge was the only place we would have opened Toads. We are huge outdoor enthusiasts. Grand Ledge is midMichigan’s mecca for outdoor adventure recreation. Grand Ledge has the best hiking, two amazing rivers, the only outdoor rock climbing, a phenomenal disc golf course and so much more. Yet Grand Ledge lacked a local shop/cafe to celebrate these terrific parks and landscapes and cater to the outdoor enthusiasts frequenting them. Part of the ethos of the business is to inspire people to get outdoors and care for themselves and the environment. How do you do that, and why is that important to you? We do our best to inspire people to get outdoors with both the retail that we sell — hammocks, water bottles, climbing equipment, golf discs — as well as with our knowledge of the area parks, general conversations and with our outdoorMichigan-themed decor.
What sets Toads Coffee apart from competitors? The atmosphere, among other things, sets Toads apart from other coffee shops. People have described walking into Toads as a breath of fresh air and positivity. One of our main focuses at Toads is to ensure our patrons feel happy, positive and uplifted after visiting Toads — whether this is delivered to them with a warm atmosphere, a smiling barista, comforting food or a delicious latte. Toads also does coffee ice cubes in the iced coffee and latte drinks in order to ensure the drinks never become watered down. Toads recycles, donates more than it can afford to donate, only serves highquality ingredients, pays employees a living wage and follows additional ethical practices that are further described in the book “Let My People Go Surfing” by Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia Clothing. What is the best part of your job? The smiling faces are by far the best part of my job. Watching people smile and react to the establishment fills me with warmth. I gather the feeling that, for at least a moment, people forget about the stresses of their lives and truly enjoy their time with us at Toads.
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H e l oliday g n i r K
KRINGLE HOLIDAY MARKET
DOWNTOWN DIGITAL DOLLARS
30+ RESTAURANTS
Get into the holiday spirit in Downtown Lansing with fun activities for the whole family, delicious restaurants and unique shopping experiences, like the Kringle Holiday Market at Reutter Park. Plus, with Downtown Digital Dollars, supporting your community and finding the perfect gift has never been easier. You don’t want to miss the great things happening in Michigan’s Downtown, Downtown Lansing.
Learn more at DowntownLansing.org
20+ UNIQUE RETAIL STORES
lifestyle
PLACES p.30 DESIGN AND DIY p.32 GOOD READS p.38 RECIPE p.41 NONPROFIT p.43 PLAY p.44
FESTIVE FINDS IN DOWNTOWN LANSING Shakayla Zoss, marketing and branding specialist at Downtown Lansing Inc., is a champion of downtown, along with the rest of the DLI team. It is literally her job to know downtown, which is why we asked her to list some of her favorite downtown shopping experiences for the holidays. “Downtown Lansing offers a unique selection of locally made and sourced gifts that will be special and give back to our community,” Zoss said. “The Middle Village Micro Market is home to four charming stores, including Honey Bun Bakery, CocoBella Fashion Boutique, Ornamaloo and Sylvia’s Sudsery. Zoss also has enjoyed the Kringle Holiday Market every Friday and Saturday, and she said Downtown Digital Dollars make it easy to lift up businesses while gifting others so they can choose from their favorite dining spots, artisan shops, spiritual wellness stores, fashion boutiques and more.
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lifestyle / PLACES
WHAT’S IN A NAME?
WILLIAMSTON DINERS ARE FLOCKING TO THAT NEW PLACE IN THE CITY STORY AND PHOTOS BY METRO MELIK
It may just be the shrewdest name in the restaurant world — mostly because, at one time or another, it’s slipped past all of our tongues. “Do you want to try that new place?” “I hear that new place is pretty good.” “Let’s swing by that new place after the show.” Husband-and-wife co-owners Ray Priebe and Carrie Ballou have taken the vague generalities out of such phrases with That New Place at 146 W. Grand River Ave. in Williamston. Since opening in May, the restaurant and bakery has solidified its reputation as a firm destination in the city.
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WHEN YOU COME HERE – FOR THE FIRST TIME ON PURPOSE OR BY HAPPENCHANCE – YOU CAN’T WAIT TO GET BACK.
Priebe and Callou met at culinary school in Traverse City. Just as it’s a winding path to get here from there, so was their path to the opening of the quaint spot in Williamston, working farmers markets and as a popup before launching the brick-andmortar location. The menu of the establishment reflects the couple’s joy in playing with flavor combinations: a Brazilian lemonade of fresh limes, sweetened condensed milk and sugar; a cake covered with red grapes and cream cheese galette; the signature shrimp and grits. Art that changes monthly adorns the walls. Pastries are showcased in the display cabinets. A cake on the counter tempts the restraint of any patron. “When you come here — for the first time on purpose or by happenchance — you can’t wait to get back. We are very fortunate to have them here,” said diner Richard Rashid.
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lifestyle / DESIGN AND DIY
DON’T START FROM SCRATCH SIMPLE AND SUSTAINABLE HOLIDAY DECORATING PHOTO AND ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE MURRAY
The day after Thanksgiving was one of my favorite days growing up. I would help my grandmother get out the artificial tree my grandfather had bought before he died, and we would go through the decorations she’d collected through generations. It was my job to decorate how I saw fit, and I left no corner of our home undecorated. I carried on that tradition as I had children, and my Januaryborn kiddo especially loves how “their” season feels officially underway when our home turns festive. Last year, however, I had a couple large makeovers in progress the week of Thanksgiving and didn’t have the bandwidth to decorate. I thought about skipping everything besides the tree, but I didn’t want to let my teenager down since we’re running out of time to create childhood memories. ’Twas mid-December when I found time to think about my own house. By then, it just didn’t seem worth the effort to drag everything out of storage. It was only in my dread of creating chaos that I realized my regular decor was versatile enough to keep in place. Perhaps with just a few special touches, I could go easy on myself and revel in the joy of making magic out of simplicity. Here was my approach: Have a theme/color palette. I went with nature-inspired
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textures and colors to go with my assortment of architectural salvage and antiques. I used a lot of pine cones, fake snow balls, wooden beads, carved reindeer and antlers. Pick key areas. The mantle, tree, end tables, porch, dining table and buffet are the spots I chose because they are hightraffic areas. I skipped bonus trees and out-of-the-way surfaces to streamline setup and takedown. Think “less is more.” Adding the right items can negate the need to start with a blank slate. I found a few key pieces meant only replacing a small number of items and made enough difference to refresh my entire look. Leave room to make memories. The sparser approach allowed my family to feel more relaxed. There was less worry about making room for guests and plates of goodies. This process inspired me to adopt this as my year-round approach to seasonal decor. A year later, I have accumulated less stuff, saved time undoing and redoing rooms, saved money by using items I already own, and was able to shop in my yard for botanical elements that are as trendy as they are sustainable. You can see more examples at stephanie-murray.com/stories or by following Stephanie Murray Makeovers on Facebook or Instagram. Murray can be reached at sm@stephanie-murray.com.
automatically enrolled in a specialized youth savings account at MSUFCU that follows them throughout their career as a student. The money saved in these accounts can be used toward expenses such as college tuition, fees, and textbooks, as well as trade school or tutoring services.
EMPOWERING FUTURES: A Decade of Impact with MSUFCU’s Lansing SAVE Program By Betsy Young, Vice President of Marketing and Communications At MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU), we’re on a mission to make a positive impact in our communities, especially among young people, by giving them the tools they need for successful financial futures. This commitment led to the creation of the Lansing Student Accounts Valuing Education (SAVE) program, designed to help students in the Lansing School District save for college or other career training. Lansing SAVE began in 2014, thanks to a partnership between MSUFCU, the City of Lansing, and the Lansing School District. Each school year, any kindergartener within the school district is 517-333-2424
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But Lansing SAVE isn’t just about savings accounts. At MSUFCU, we also believe in the power of financial education. Our financial educators regularly visit classrooms to teach students about the importance of saving, how to manage money, and the difference between needs and wants. In January 2024, Lansing SAVE will celebrate a decade of making a positive impact across the school district. The program has expanded to more than 10,000 students with accounts – from
kindergartners to freshmen – and over 1,000 classroom presentations planned for 2024. We’ve also had the pleasure of watching the very first generation of Lansing SAVE students grow up and dream big. Today, the kindergartners who began with the program in 2014 are now high schoolers. We can’t wait to see where their solid financial education and aspirations take them after graduation! And, we’ll be right there, ready to help them achieve their financial goals and dreams. For more information, visit msufcu.org/lansingsave.
Headquarters: 3777 West Road, East Lansing, MI 48823
HAPPY HOLIDAYS! from
(517) 482-7900 | WWW.CAPITALINSURANCE.COM 4299 Five Oaks Drive | Lansing, MI
BETSY YOUNG betsy.young@msufcu.org
Interested in making a move? COME IN FOR A TOUR AND LEAVE AS FAMILY
Interested in senior living? Want to know more about The Marquette? Stop by and learn about the awesome amenities and care that we have here. •
Are you ready to make a move?
•
What does ready look like to you?
•
Are daily activities becoming a little too much?
Come in and let us help you find an answer to all of those questions. 5968 Park Lake Rd., East Lansing, MI 48917
Questions? Call us at 517.339.1532
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General Manager Malik Davis 517.648.7526 | Community Sales Manager Katie Guidice 517.614.5126
FEATURE
More than a role, Santa is a calling for Roger Weyersberg
BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY 517 35
FEATURE
oger Weyersberg isn’t a superhero. However, the way he turns heads and leaves a trail of young eyes wide with wonderment and mouths agape in speechless excitement in his wake, he might as well have a large, red “S” emblazoned across his chest. And, after all, he does wear something of a super suit. “It was an amazing thing when I got my first suit,” said Weyersberg. “I had the heart. I had the training. But when I put on that suit, it was like walking into a phonebooth as Clark Kent and walking out as Superman. It was huge.” The retired music teacher at OvidElsie Area Schools may keep a secret identity as a mild-mannered Owosso resident much of the time; but for a few
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special months each year, Weyersberg’s true self comes forth. There’s no flashy cape, there’s no garish and star-spangled spandex, and that figurative “S” on the chest stands for something that captivates more imagination and anticipation than Superman could ever hope for from the public of Metropolis. “It’s important to understand that Santa doesn’t come in through the chimney; he comes through the heart,” Weyersberg said. “You really have to embrace that because it’s a privilege to have the opportunity to bring joy to individuals and families.” More than just the clothes, hat, beard and general joviality, Weyersberg comes with full Kringle credentials as a longtime graduate of the Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School in Midland. Established in 1937, the nonprofit school marches soon-to-be Santas through the paces of all things St. Nick, from hair and makeup to
broadcast interviews and sign language. Weyersberg learned of the school after the Christmas spirit intervened in his life two decades ago. “It started in a grocery store back in 2003. There were two little kids there with their mom. I looked to my left, and their eyes were like saucers,” Weyersberg said. “I was like, ‘Uh-oh, I know what they’re thinking.’ So, I scooted out of there really quick.” Not quite quick enough though. Weyersberg got caught by the children at checkout — and, of course, the question of curiosity always wins out. “One of them asked me, ‘Are you Santa Claus?’ I said, ‘No, but I am his brother, and I’m going to report back that you two have been absolutely awesome and he’s got to keep you on the nice list.’ Everybody was happy with that, but it got me thinking that there must be somewhere I can learn more about this.”
FEATURE
I want happy families. I want happy individuals, and I want to do whatever I can to help create a moment of joy, happiness, guidance, inspiration — whatever it is.
That’s all I need.
After a bit of online research, Weyersberg was present and accounted for as part of the Santa School’s Class of 2004 — and for those who think Santa School would be all fun and reindeer games, Weyersberg assured that the organization takes what it does very seriously. “You learn about training your voice to last the whole season. You learn a little bit about exercise to help keep you in shape, because, you know, Santa imbibes a lot of cookies. There’s a lot of wonderful treats left around the world,” he said. “We talk about oral care, dental care. There’s nothing worse than having a child that’s close to you, and you have reindeer breath. That’s not a good thing. We talk about makeup, suit care, what you need to have a convincing wig and beard.” For those who meet Weyersberg in person and get the urge to have a chin-yanking “Miracle on 34th Street” moment, his beard is indeed the real deal. Yet, surprisingly, his whiskers don’t take much abuse. “The only abuse I get on my beard is around newborns, when they just kind of casually or by accident reach up and grab two hairs,” Weyersberg laughed. “It’s one
thing to grab a fistful. I’m pretty tough with that. But grab two hairs and you might see a tear roll out of my eye.” Over the past 20 years, Weyersberg said, there have not been any bad Santa experiences. There have been unique questions and different settings, but Weyersberg was unable to summon the memory of a negative day as Pere Noel. “I can tell you this: I have never been peed or pooped on,” he said with a laugh. “We can do away with that myth right now, because the new diapers work really well. My nostrils have been assaulted. But my suit? Never.” The training and the years of experience prepare you for just about anything. With thousands of visits under his belt, Weyersberg has just about seen and done it all through the lens of Santa — and he said his years as an educator have been instrumental in helping him stay connected to kids. “There are kids who want nothing to do with Santa, and then there are kids who will crawl right into your lap,” he said. “It’s all about the child and what the child is comfortable with. If the child wants to come over and play with this, come on over
and play with this. If the child wants to touch this or that, it’s fine. If a child wants to look at a book together, that’s what we’ll do. It’s about having that kind of freedom, because Santa is all about magic and goodness.” Yet for the man who gives so much to so many, there is a question that remains: What exactly does Santa want for Christmas? “I want happy families,” Weyersberg said. “I want happy individuals, and I want to do whatever I can to help create a moment of joy, happiness, guidance, inspiration — whatever it is. That’s all I need.”
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lifestyle / GOOD READS
FIVE BOOKS TO STUFF IN STOCKINGS BY 517 STAFF
It’s the perfect time of year to curl up under a blanket by the fire with a good read as you check off the titles from your wish list that you were gifted this year. Here’s five to consider adding to your everevolving inventory.
“The Bookseller of Inverness” For historical fiction buffs and fans of S.G. MacLean, this book is set in the wake of the 1746 Battle of Culloden. The No. 1 New York Times bestseller has been referred to as thrilling, intricate and first rate — while some Amazon readers mentioned it can also be a bit of a challenging read. If the person whose stocking you are stuffing is fan of history, thrillers and books full of twists, this may make a great gift. “The Trail” If there is a nature lover or hiker on your gift list, this book may be a good read. Written by Ethan Gallogly and illustrated by Jeremy Ashcroft, the book is set in the High Sierra and is about how nature helps us find what is missing in our lives. The book offers a bit of humor, philosophy and trail lore as main character Gil sets off with his late father’s hiking partner on a monthlong journey along the John Muir Trail.
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“A Little Life” TikTok has spurred many readers to check out this work by Hanya Yanagihara. The heartbreaking and profound book looks at the “intimate ties between families bound by choice rather than blood.” The story follows college classmates as they move to New York in search of fame and are bound together by one character, Jude, who endured a heart-wrenching childhood trauma. “Cooking from the Spirit” Another New York Times bestseller, “Cooking from the Spirit: Easy, Delicious, and Joyful Plant-Based Inspirations” by Tabitha Brown was voted the favorite vegan cookbook of 2023 by VegNews. The healthy, creative and flexible recipes are infused with stories from the spirit inspired by Brown’s own health journey. “The Woman In Me” We had to. The most talked-about book in recent months has been Britney Spears’ memoir. Spears’ young life has been scarred by the trauma that comes with being famous and having your most personal moments shared, including mental health issues that led to conservatorship. The first half of the memoir is said to have less emotion, almost as if a team had written it, which is not uncommon. We do hear the second half seems to come straight from Spears herself. This book will surely land in pop-culture fans’ stockings, if they haven’t devoured it already.
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lifestyle / RECIPE
A TOAST TO THE HOLIDAYS THREE-INGREDIENT CRANBERRY CHAMPAGNE COCKTAIL BY 517 STAFF
Whether you’re in charge of the office holiday party or hosting a family get-together, it’s always fun to feature a gorgeous holiday cocktail. A cranberry champagne cocktail is vibrant and easy to make — and it’s as pretty as a poinsettia.
THE BEST PART IS, IT ONLY REQUIRES THREE INGREDIENTS: •
About 1/2 ounce of orange liqueur, such as Cointreau or Grand Mariner
•
Approximately 3 ounces of 100% cranberry juice
•
3 ounces of champagne
WHAT TO DO: Pour the orange liqueur into your favorite holiday glass, followed by cranberry juice, stirring well. Then add the champagne, garnish and cheers!
NOTES, G ARNISHE S, TIPS AND TRICKS: C
hill your gla sses and yo ur ingredients before mak ing. Add a spri g of rosem ary and so fresh cran me berries as garnish. For the kid s or nondri nkers, use mix of oran a ge juice, sp arkling cid and cranb er erry juice. 517 41
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lifestyle / JACK DAVIS LEGACY NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT
A BOWL FULL OF JELLY – AND THEN SOME
WORK OF PORCH SANTA BENEFITS HOLT COMMUNITY FOOD BANK BY KYLE DOWLING
A round-trip ticket to the North Pole is going to set you back a bit. Fortunately, Santa keeps a home away from home in a much more reasonable location right here in Holt for closer collaboration with his partners at a local food bank. Former Holt High School chemistry teacher Dave Foy is no stranger to community involvement, having served as a basketball, cross-country and track coach. Yet since retiring, Foy traded in his coaching whistle for sleigh bells by becoming the now-fabled socially distanced “Porch Santa” starting in 2020. “I felt like I got a great reception that first year,” Foy said. “There were even some people who would call and ask if I would do something over the phone. And, of course, I was more than happy to.” Foy’s previous work pulling Santa duty at an area business was waylaid by the pandemic; however, he wasn’t about to let local kids down, so Santa relocated to Foy’s front porch. If Santa’s around, it’s a safe bet that kids are going
to find him — and, sure enough, people started showing up around the roped-off area at Foy’s residence. Foy never asks anything for his time, but he does accept contributions to the Holt Community Food Bank. “My garage is usually full of nonperishable donations by the end,” he explained. “And they’ll come by with a truck and take everything to the Holt food bank.” Foy began donning the red suit and furry hat just after Thanksgiving this year — and you can see him at 1527 Stonehaven Drive in Holt from noon to 2 p.m. and 3-5 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday until Christmas Eve. His hour break is spent warming up while making calls to good children who can’t make it out to the porch. Santa’s a hip dude, so, naturally, he’s on social media. For more details on the seasonal shenanigans of Porch Santa, search for his page on Facebook.
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Menagerie of Holiday Magic POTTER PARK ZOO WONDERLAND OF LIGHTS Through Dec. 23 Come and be amazed by the 31st annual Wonderland of Lights. Walk around the zoo Thursday through Sunday evenings and enjoy the magical season with your favorite animals. Santa is available Fridays and Saturdays. Be sure to grab a goodie bag for the kids before you leave. Visit potterparkzoo.org/event/wonderland-of-lights-3/.
THIS MONTH’S EVENTS Editor’s note: Please call event venues directly to make sure times and dates haven’t changed.
Follow our friends at 517living.com for other upcoming events in the region.
Christmas Outdoor Market | Dec. 9 Enjoy winter festivities at the outdoor market featuring local artisans and creators. Grab the perfect gift for the holiday season from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 119 N. Bridge St. in DeWitt. Be sure not to miss a Santa sighting while you’re there. For details, visit fb.me/e/4C2O4GlWI. Old Town Krampusnacht | Dec. 9 For those looking for an olden-time Christmas, Old Town is hosting the first Krampusnacht (Krampus Night) from 6-9 p.m. There will be good-natured spooky fun capturing the essence of old-world European Krampus celebrations. The event features food, shopping, kids’ activities and a visit from St. Nick. Activities will include a traditional Krampus parade, a costume contest, story time, vendors, games and music. For details, visitfb.me/e/1yY2rXD9L. Zoo Nights, with Lights | Dec. 13 Potter Park Zoo will be hosting an evening for those 21 and over that will feature holiday music and decoration, along with various goodies from local restaurants and breweries. Tickets are $15 for zoo members and $20 for nonmembers. Each guest will receive three drink tickets upon entry, with additional tickets available for purchase. For details, visit potterparkzoo.org/event/zoo-nightswith-lights-2/. Holiday Craft and Vendor Show | Dec. 16-17 Find that last-minute, homemade present in the Meridian Mall, 1982 W. Grand River Ave. in Okemos. Keep yourself warm and cozy while browsing the wonderful holiday creations the vendors have to offer. For details, visit Facebook.
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Cocoa and Collection | Dec. 16 For those with artistic proclivities, the Michigan State University Broad Art Museum has got your holiday fix with hot cocoa and art-making activities inspired by the wintry works in the museum collection. All ages are welcome, and registration is encouraged. For details, visit broadmuseum.msu.edu/events/cocoa-andcollection-20231216/. Howliday Dog Treat Class | Dec. 16 Looking for something other than store-bought snacks for your furry friend this holiday season? Come learn some new recipes for howlidaythemed, homemade dog treats. Students will learn skills like basic piping and frosting skills for cookies and cupcakes. Each student will take home a large dog treat box and recipe cards so they can make the treats again and again. For details, visit eventbrite.com/e/howlidaydog-treat-class-tickets-748120387217?aff= ebdssbdestsearch. Cirque Dreams Holidaze | Dec. 18-20 A holiday twist on contemporary circus arts, Cirque Dreams Holidaze will be sure to amaze with a brilliant and whimsical family holiday spectacular. With an original music score; twists on holiday classics sung live; and new sets, scenery and storylines; it’s sure to get even the biggest Scrooge in the holiday spirit. For details, visit whartoncenter.com/events/detail/cirquedreams-holidaze.
WRAP UP 517 GIFT GUIDE Staff suggestions on inside-the-box thinking BY 517 STAFF
Finding that perfect gift is 90% of the holiday struggle. Fortunately, 517 Magazine is taking the pain out of presents this year. Our elves on staff offered their shop-local gift selections for the holiday season. Kathryn Aspin Collective Market Co. in downtown Jackson is fantastic for a variety of home décor items, jewelry, baby gifts, candles — pretty much everything I need in one place. It just expanded, too, so shopping will be even more fun this year.
Stacy Bogard I always stop by Bradly’s HG in Old Town. It has everything from specialty food items to fun decor and holiday trinkets, along with experience-based gifts like cooking classes. Another favorite for something unique is Michigan Barn Wood & Salvage in Mason.
Shelley Davis Boyd l like giving edible gifts from Sweet Encounter Bakery and Groovy Donuts. Sweets are perfect for folks who have everything.
Kyle Dowling I like to buy my local gifts from the Old Town General Store. It has a great selection of items like locally made snacks, treats and beverages. It even does gift baskets of items to make your job a little easier this holiday season.
Tiffany Dowling I really like to support small businesses by giving gift cards to some of my favorite places like Cask and Co. and Nuthouse. I also think experiences make great gifts — give tickets to your favorite sporting event, performances, golf course or escape room!
Mary Gajda I give lots of candy gifts from Kean’s Store Co. in Mason and the Peanut Shop in downtown Lansing. I was also in Young Brothers & Daley recently, and it has a lot of great gift ideas, including the cutest wall clocks ever. Restaurant gift cards are great gifts, too.
Megan Fleming I really enjoy sourcing Horrocks Farm Market on West Saginaw just outside Lansing for holiday gift baskets. I can buy a full basket there or create my own with coffee, caramel apples, olive oils and candies. The options are endless — and you can treat yourself to a gift while shopping.
Christopher Nagy Imagination breaks the chains of what is and unlocks the future of what could be. Give the key to limitless worlds and untamed creativity by paying a visit to Summit Comics and Games in downtown Lansing. You can’t swing Thor’s hammer Mjolnir in that place without hitting something cool and fun.
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