517 Magazine May 2021 Issue

DREAM B U S I N E S S

A N D

L I F E

MAKER

PACKARD RETURNS TO LOCAL ROOTS TO OPEN INSTITUTE OF DANCERS

PRESCRIPTION FOR THE BLUES Root Doctor singer ready to return to the stage May 2021

RECIPE FOR SURVIVAL Longtime restaurants get a boost from loyal Lansing foodies

Home Loans at Your Fingertips What would you like to do today?

Apply for your mortgage using MSUFCU’s Mobile app. It’s an easy, convenient, and safe way to bring you one step closer to finding your dream home.

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MSUFCU Mobile app • msufcu.org • 517-333-2424

There is no charge to download the MSUFCU Mobile app. However, data and connectivity fees from your mobile service provider may apply. Please contact your mobile service provider for more information. Some features may be available for MSUFCU members only. Subject to credit approval. Eligible properties include primary residences; owner-occupied second homes; condos; modular and manufactured homes; and one- to four-unit buildings with owner occupancy in one of the units. Properties must be located within Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois or Florida.

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publisher’s note

I

What Does a Reopened World Look Like to You?

’ve often wondered what the world will look like on a personal level once the threat of the coronavirus pandemic is no longer a present and daily danger to us. I doubt I’m the only one to have pondered that scenario — over and over.

Will there be a sudden shift back to normal? Will there be a slower transition defined by cautious trepidation? Or have we gone through a more permanent metamorphosis over these past months that has forever altered the way we approach our public exchanges and interactions with one another?

The answer is likely all of the above — depending on who is asked.

Yet as the COVID-19 vaccine rollout continues its ramp-up, it’s a question we all may be facing in the not-too-distant future. As we inch toward a level of immunity where the risks of the disease are increasingly mitigated, we’ll hopefully see more of the world reopening and returning to an outward appearance of normalcy.

It’s an exciting thought, and it’s part of the reason we wanted to celebrate entertainment in all forms in this month’s issue of 517 Magazine. Whether you enjoy loud music in small spaces or prefer to cloister at the quiet and romantic corner table of a crowded restaurant, either might be evening options up for consideration in the months ahead.

There are immense mental and physical health benefits that come from entertainment and making in-person connections with others. There are also the financial benefits that businesses such as bars and restaurants or occupations such as musician and performer will be able to reap with a reopening after the struggles to stay afloat.

While having a wealth of entertainment alternatives once again at out fingertips is an exciting prospect, it’s equally important to remember that many people have engaged in a year-long battle on emotional and psychological levels.

Just because we all have endured this shared experience doesn’t mean we’ll all have a shared response. Some may not be ready to welcome the world back with open arms, and that’s OK too. They’ll get there, but they may require a bit more time. It’s fine to be eager for more normal exchanges, as long as we all can respect that we are still individuals and we each have personal needs.

Be patient. Be kind. And understand that we all move at different speeds.

Tiffany Dowling Publisher

517 Business and Life , Volume 2, Issue 5, May 2021.

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.

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517 | 5.21

Creative Visionary Chad Hussle chad@m3group.biz Lead Editor Christopher Nagy Contributors Rich Adams Teece Aronin Metro Melik Brown Kyle Dowling Mary Gajda Erin Hagen Cheryl Lindemann Chris Nagy Tedi Parsons Omar Sofradzija Jack Tany Graphic Designers Lauren Brumbach Emily Hanes Marketing Account Specialists Megan Fleming megan@m3group.biz Liz Reno-Hayes liz@m3group.biz Melissa DeMott melissa@m3group.biz John Tripolsky john@m3group.biz Photographer Mary Gajda Metro Melik M3 Group 221 W. Saginaw St. Lansing, MI 48933 P (517) 203-3333 Subscription subscribe@517mag.com

NEED T R A I N I N G SUPPORT? NEED T R A I N I N G SUPPORT NEED T R A I N I NNEED G SUPPORT? NEED T R A I N I TNRG A ISUPPORT NING NEED T R A I N I NSUPPORT? G SUPPORT? NEED T R A I N I N G SUPPORT NEED T R A I N I N G SUPPORT? NEED T R A I N I N G SUPPORT NEED T R A I N I N G SUPPORT? NEED T R A I N I N G SUPPORT NEED T R A I N I N G SUPPORT? NEED T R A I N I N G SUPPORT NEED T R A I N I N G SUPPORT? CONNECTING WITH BUSINESS. STRENGTHENING OUR WORKFORCE. camw.org

1-800-285-WORK

Capital Area Michigan Works! is a proud partner of the American Job Center network. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this piece will be made available in an alternative format upon request to Capital Area Michigan Works! Relay Center. Call 711 or 844-578-6563 (Voice and TDD). Funding for Capital Area Michigan Works! is received in part from the U.S. Department of Labor and the State of Michigan. An Equal Opportunity Employer/Center.

YOUR PASSION YOUR PURPOSE We are the momentum behind what’s possible.

We focus on the business of business — allowing you to focus on what makes you extraordinary.

Contact a Rehmann Advisor today and put our experience to work for you. Visit rehmann.com or call 866.799.9580.

Advisory & Tax \ Assurance \ Business Consulting \ Wealth Management \ Comprehensive Technology \ Accounting & Human Resource Solutions

Unsure about getting a COVID vaccine?

In our Trusted Voices video series, local leaders discuss the COVID vaccines, and why they’re safe and necessary in getting our region back to normal.

WATCH THE VIDEOS AT:

relaunchgreaterlansing.com/trusted-voices-videos

contents

5/21 13 Recipe for Survival Longtime restaurants get a boost from loyal Lansing foodies

39 Dream Maker Packard returns to local roots to open INstitute of Dancers

5.21 | 517

5

business

contents

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11

AREA SNAPSHOT

17

TRENDS

18

NOTABLE NEWS

21

BIZ TIPS

22

STATE/NATIONAL

26

ON THE RECORD

27

PERSPECTIVES

A Snapshot of Local Business News Affecting the 517 Heard It Through the Grapevine Professional Highlights from the 517 Region Cancel Culture A Brief Look at State and National News Affecting our Region Prescription for the Blues Tapping into Success

lifestyle

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30

PLACES

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FAMILY CORNER

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STYLE

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FOOD

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NONPROFIT

We Want the Airwaves Writer joins the team at Stacks 92.1 Making Moments Count with Kids Stepping Out Keep the comfort for an evening on the town Best of the 517 Brunch Heart Full of Sole Footprints of Michigan provides new and gently used footwear to those in need

play 44

REASONS TO PLAY

46

OUT & ABOUT

Visit 517living.com for More Lansing-Area Activities Pics Submitted by Readers!

DEPARTMENTS

2 PUBLISHER’S NOTE 48

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WRAP UP

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At Grandhaven, our flexible care services are designed to meet our residents where they’re at.

Call us today to learn about our offerings and how we support our residents!

For a limited time, take advantage of exclusive seasonal savings! Call today to get started!

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Dobie Road Outpatient Therapy Clinic

EXPERIENCE THE DOBIE DIFFERENCE! •At Dobie Road, our therapists will work with you one-on-one for your entire session! We won’t leave you to work with another patient during your appointment time, we keep our focus on you!

•Our physical therapist is specially certified as an Orthopedic Manipulative Therapist.

•We offer FREE balance and cognitive screens, off-road driving assessments, and a PREhab program to help you get stronger before surgery.

•Our state-of-the-art gym and warm water pool (kept between 90 & 94 degrees) allow our therapists to use many different techniques to help relieve pain and increase functionality, balance, and strength!

•The Dobie Road Outpatient Therapy Clinic offers Physical, Occupational, Speech, and Warm Water Aquatic Therapy for ages 10-110.

•We are your local, hometown, non-profit clinic and have been part of the Mid-Michigan community for over 175 years!

IMPROVING YOUR LIFE IS OUR MISSION www.dobieroad.org 3860 Dobie Road • Okemos • 517-381-6169

business

AREA SNAPSHOT p.11 TRENDS p.17 NOTABLE NEWS p.18 BIZ TIPS p.21 STATE/NATIONAL p.22 ON THE RECORD p.26 PERSPECTIVES p.27

THE ARTS READY TO RETAKE THE STAGE The Wharton Center for Performing Arts has dealt with pandemic cancellations for the last year, but the East Lansing facility has adapted with some virtual offerings. Looking to the future, the venue will continue to schedule performances and eagerly watch and wait with the rest of us.

“We are looking forward to coming together as a community to once again share the healing power of live performing arts. We announced our new season in April and expect to begin presenting live shows in the fall,” said Lisa Rentz, director of marketing and communications.

Watch for updates and read about the Wharton’s new season at whartoncenter.com.

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Top 5 Reasons You Need a Credit Union

By Deidre Davis, MSU Federal Credit Union’s Chief Marketing Officer Now more than ever, consumers are cautious about spending money.

This is especially important when it comes to financial institutions, where consumers need to be able to trust their financial institution to have their best interests at heart as they save, borrow and invest. Here are the top five reasons you need a credit union: 1.

Service. A credit union’s first priority is helping its members.

The industry was founded on the “people helping people” philosophy, and it guides the way in which they operate, differentiating them from the rest of the financial industry.

Ownership. Each member owns a share of the credit union, which means all members have an equal vote when electing the volunteer board of directors who represent and protect their interests.

MSUFCU reached the milestone of 300,000 members in 2020. We currently have 304,734 member-owners.

3.

Saving. Credit union members save more with competitive rates.

MSUFCU saved its members more than $11 million in 2020, and more than $90 million in the last seven years by refinancing members’ high-rate loans from other institutions to MSUFCU at lower rates.

4.

Between January and March 2020, MSUFCU held 192 in-person financial education presentations for 10,733 attendees, and after March, held another 190 virtual presentations for 7,950 attendees. MSUFCU also produced 29 episodes of its financial podcast, Wallet Watch.

5.

In 2020, MSUFCU employees answered 718,770 call center inquiries, and nearly 400,000 chats and e-messages from members.

2.

financially successful. They accomplish this by presenting a wide range of financial topics to members of all ages.

Financial wellness. Credit unions have a strong tradition of providing financial education to members, helping them become

Giving back. As part of the “people helping people” philosophy, credit unions support organizations in their communities through donations, sponsorships and volunteering.

In 2020, MSUFCU employees donated more than $222,000 in personal funds to the credit union’s charity partners, and more than 500 hours volunteering.

If you’re looking for a great financial partner that is member-focused and community-driven, plus offers lower interest rates, lower fees and higher dividends, check out a credit union; you’ll be glad you did.

For more information about this loan or anything else related to how MSUFCU can support your business, visit msufcu.org/backtobusiness.

Deidre Davis is the chief marketing officer at MSU Federal Credit Union. MSUFCU’s headquarters are at 3777 West Road, East Lansing, MI 48823. Contact Deidre at deidre.davis@msufcu.org or (517) 664-7877.

You belong here

A future you control. Tuition that’s fair.

Summer semester begins May 17.

lcc.edu/youbelong

Lansing Community College is an equal opportunity Educational institution/employer.

business / AREA SNAPSHOT

A snapshot of local business news affecting the 517 IT’S ALL TANGS AND BISCUITS AT THE LANSING SHUFFLEBOARD AND SOCIAL CLUB

BY TEECE ARONIN

I-94 INTERCHANGE CONCEPT BEGINS IN JACKSON

BY TEECE ARONIN

The multi-year modernization plan for the Interstate 94 corridor in Jackson County is still underway, the highlight of which is the creation of a diverging-diamond concept at the I-94, U.S. 127 and West Avenue interchange.

“The interchange has traffic briefly cross over to the left and allows for two-phase operation at all its signalized intersections,” said Aaron S. Jenkins, communications representative with the Michigan Department of Transportation.

He added that the upgrades will result in marked safety improvements thanks to traffic signals and pavement markings. The diverging-diamond approach was selected after a study of the interchange was conducted in 2019.

“The diverging diamond helps improve the operations of the interchange, efficiently addresses safety concerns, has minor impacts to property acquisition and the environment, and will provide a nice gateway into Jackson,” Jenkins said.

The diverging-diamond concept was introduced to the public at two separate meetings.

The plan includes roundabouts, which the city chose as safer, more efficient and less costly, and more aesthetically pleasing than conventional intersections. According to Jenkins, roundabouts reduce serious accidents by 75%, and the I-94 modernization study completed in the mid-2000s indicated that three through lanes are needed.

“We are excited to see the state work with Jackson to improve safety and efficiency on Michigan roadways for the community and our visitors,” said Craig Hatch, president and CEO of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce.

Funding for the project comes from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s Rebuilding Michigan program for highways and bridges critical to Michigan’s economy.

This project will pick up where the 2019-2020 project left off. Major construction work is scheduled to be completed in late fall 2022 with some work spilling over into 2023.

Tang and biscuits might sound like a menu item the astronauts could select on NASA’s Mercury and Gemini flights, but they’re actually items you’ll be able to order up at the incoming Lansing Shuffleboard and Social Club.

Biscuits are the discs you slide up the court when you play shuffleboard, and tangs are the sticks used to propel the biscuits toward the scoring triangle — and both will be in strong supply when the club, aka Lansing Shuffle, opens in the former Lansing City Market site in spring 2022.

Shaped in part by the vision of real estate development and construction firm Detroit Rising, additional plans for the space include restaurants, bars, standup comedy and an art gallery with works by local artists. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights will feature shuffleboard leagues. The project marks Detroit Rising’s first foray outside Detroit, and it is similar to another of its successes, the Detroit Shipping Co. Jonathan Hartzell, general partner at Detroit Rising, said shuffleboard was a natural choice because it’s fun and can be played by people of all ages.

“We’re happy about expanding into the capital region,” he said. “The people we’re collaborating with in Lansing are terrific to work with.”

Lansing Mayor Andy Schor sees the project as a benefit for the city.

“I have continuously said that my priorities for repurposing the former City Market building include activating the space, ensuring that it is a lasting activation and not needing a yearly subsidy from the city,” Schor said. “This project meets all of those conditions and will be a great reuse of the space.”

Construction is expected to begin in August.

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business / AREA SNAPSHOT

OUTDOOR RECREATION STILL A HOT TICKET DURING PANDEMIC

BY KYLE DOWLING

LUGNUTS TAKE SECOND SWING ON 25TH SEASON

BY RICH ADAMS

Play ball, redux.

When normal veered into foul territory last year, so did the Lansing Lugnuts’ 25th anniversary plans. All minor league play was suspended as the pandemic unfolded over the spring.

Yet a new season brings new changes for the team. The Lugnuts are now an Oakland Athletics affiliate playing in the recently rechristened Jackson Field with a detailed plan to keep everyone safe in the midst of the pandemic. The team is also now a High-A operation, meaning players have more experience.

“It’s been over 500 days since the last Lugnuts game, and we’re pumped to welcome fans back and kick off the 2021 season,” said general manager Tyler Parsons.

The season opener is slated for May 4.

“While it is starting a little later, we are also extending into September longer than normal,” Parsons said.

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And while baseball fans are ready to get back to enjoying the national pastime in person, Jackson Field is not solely dedicated to baseball.

“We get the opportunity to bring other outdoor events that the community can come out for,” said Greg Kigar, assistant general manager of stadium events and operations.

“Whether it’s a Nitro Circus or music concert or things like the beerfest or chili cook-off, it brings our community together.

“The community aspect is so important to us,” Kigar continued. “Again, 2020 is an example. Lemonade League baseball, outdoor movie nights — this was a way to reach out and give people the opportunity to come to the ballpark and is another way to use the stadium.”

The team’s schedule and events are listed at milb.com/lansing. To view the team’s COVID-19 readiness plan, visit ww2. lansinglugnuts.com/LL_21_COVID_PLAN. pdf.

With pandemic restrictions still in effect, people are looking to get outside in safe ways again this summer. Last year, many people turned to camping and biking as fun, outdoor activities that involved little to no additional people. This surge in popularity left many bike shops understocked for much of summer 2020.

“There’s a global shortage of bikes and outdoor sporting products,” said Tommy Poole, an employee at Denny’s Central Park Bicycles. “We’re seeing about two to three times the demand for bikes. We’re busier than we’ve ever been. Bikes will probably be in short supply till the end of next year.”

He explained that the increase in demand has not been the only thing impacting the bicycle shortage.

“Many of the suppliers right now are having a hard time getting products as well,” Poole said. “Suppliers used to be able to buy two containers easily, but now they must bid on a single one.”

In addition to bike sales, the sale of recreational vehicles has also been on the rise. An employee at Gillette’s Interstate RV said the business has seen an approximately 20% increase in sales over the pandemic; however, he noted that sales of smaller camping equipment such as tents may be where most people are investing as a way to get out of the house.

“RVs are more of a luxury item,” he explained. “We have seen more people buying them to spend more outdoor time with just their friends and family, but people need their houses and cars more immediately.”

FEATURE

recipe

for survival

LONGTIME RESTAURANTS GET A BOOST FROM LOYAL LANSING FOODIES

BY OMAR SOFRADZIJA | PHOTOS BY METRO MELIK 5.21 | 517

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TO HEAR AUTUMN WESTON TELL IT, PEOPLE MAY GET THE IMPRESSION THAT IT WASN’T THE THINGS THAT WESTON’S KEWPEE SANDWICH SHOP DID IN THE WAKE OF COVID-19 THAT’S KEPT THE LONGTIME LANSING STAPLE ALIVE AND KICKING. IT’S THE THINGS HER FAMILY’S BUSINESS DID BEFORE THE PANDEMIC THAT MATTERED THE MOST. That’s because when coronavirusrelated restrictions kept customers away from Kewpee’s dining room in particular and downtown Lansing in general for most of the past year, a steady stream of loyal eaters still found their way there to keep cash registers busy enough, even if it involved some improvised workarounds like curbside pickup orders.

“You’ve got relationships with people, and you’re part of this community, and it’s a reminder as to why we’re here and why we do what we do,” said Weston, the fourthgeneration owner of the eatery that’s served locals since 1923. “That’s kind of like fuel for us. So, even though we’re not getting our daily dose of our dining room full of people, we still get it — just in the parking lot — and our customers have been amazing: buying gift certificates, buying family meals, just coming in regularly and being so generous to my staff.

“They’re just taking care of us in the best ways that they can, and that is honestly what I feel is keeping us here: the loyalty of our community and the love of our community that wants us here,” she added.

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Weston’s Kewpee, 118 S. Washington Square, is among a number of iconic midMichigan dining places that used deep roots in the community with a sprinkle of newfangled tools to prepare a recipe of survival amid the most challenging hospitality industry environment anyone can recall.

One such evolutionary moment came in January, when DeLuca’s Restaurant, 2006 W. Willow St. in Lansing, received a visit from Dave Portnoy, founder of the sports and pop-culture digital media company Barstool Sports. The visit was part of Portnoy’s ongoing YouTube series reviewing pizza places from coast to coast. By the end of March, the video from DeLuca’s had racked up nearly 170,000 views and sparked a run on a restaurant already wellknown to many locals.

“I was like blown away at it. I really have been,” said John DeLuca, who with brothers Charles and Thomas shares ownership of the restaurant co-founded by their dad in 1960. “I’m an older person.

I’m almost 70. I had no idea that social media was that strong, because our business jumped like 25%. … It was unbelievable.”

DeLuca said the incidental discovery is going to change his view on social media as a business tool: “It’s really something I have to reconsider, which I never did much. I’m not even on Facebook.”

Still, it was DeLuca’s existing standing in the community that gave the restaurant

enough of a push that newer, lessestablished dining venues may have lacked but sorely needed through the crisis.

“For a new business, it would be very difficult to bring in new customers or to get people accustomed to your business.

Fortunately, our customers have been coming here for a long time, and they kept coming,” DeLuca said.

Such as when the restaurant first reopened for business after the intial quarantine-related shutdown last spring.

“When we first opened up, they were backed up — oh, my goodness — all the way down the building outside, waiting to pick up their stuff” for carryout orders, DeLuca said.

Now that societal reopenings and vaccine distribution are loosening the grip COVID-19 has had on the community, both Weston and DeLuca are hopeful that things will start to return to normal soon.

“We want you to know the momand-pop places are the pillars of our communities, so do what you can to support them,” Weston said. “And keep your head up.”

The community helped there, too.

During the grim early days of the pandemic, Weston recalled finding a fruit basket and a card with $100 in it outside her door.

“It said, ‘Tough times won’t last, but tough people do. Thank you for taking care of our community, as you always do,’” she said.

FEATURE

Power from the People: Autumn Weston of Weston’s Kewpee Sandwich Shop and Chuck DeLuca of DeLuca’s Restaurant found that their loyal roots in the community helped them overcome financial hurdles during the coronavirus pandemic.

adjusting to the

new normal

WHILE SOME THINGS WILL RETURN TO THE WAY THEY WERE FOR THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY, OTHER THINGS WILL NOT. AS MICHIGAN’S RESTAURANTEURS RAMP UP REOPENING AMID CHANGED CONSUMER HABITS, HERE ARE SOME THINGS ABOUT THE NEW NORMAL THEY SHOULD CONSIDER, BASED ON RESEARCH BY THE ERNST & YOUNG GLOBAL CONSULTING FIRM:

•

Keep customers engaged remotely with new brand experiences, such as livestreamed cooking lessons and podcasts.

•

Diversify product offerings, such as direct-toconsumer products and meal kits.

•

Consider innovative ways for crowd control, such as digital check-in and contactless payments.

•

Continue making health and safety fundamental and transparent to customer and staff experiences.

Source: “Beyond COVID-19: How to navigate a new normal enabled by technology,” Ernst & Young, March 5, 2021, ey.com/en_us/covid-19/ beyond-covid-19-how-to-navigate-a-new-normal-enabled-by-technology

Advertorial

A Conversation with Ann Emmerich of WILX Ann Emmerich anchors the 5, 5:30, 6, & 11 pm news for WILX-TV 10.

Q: Tell us about your career in broadcasting.

A: I started my career at TV 9 & 10 in Cadillac and left the business for 13 years to be a stay-at-home mom to my three sons. I returned as a producer for WLNS and was promoted to anchor/reporter. After nearly 10 years, I moved to WILX. While I have interviewed leaders of our nation, our state, and our communities, my most challenging assignments, by far, are telling personal stories. I am grateful to the many people who have trusted me with that responsibility.

Q: What do you love most about the Lansing/Mid-Michigan community?

A: The people are kind and accepting. When my husband Tom and I first moved here, we met some great families through church, schools, and my sons’ athletic teams. Many of those people remain our dear friends today.

Q: If someone wanted to move to the area, what advice would you give them?

A: Every community has a different vibe. Explore and find the right fit for you.

Q: Anything else you’d like the readers to know?

A: Thank you for allowing me into your homes every night. I do not take it for granted.

business / TRENDS

HEARD IT THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE Where to relax and ‘unwine’ in Greater Lansing

Every wine has a specific and unique story rooted in age and location and history. Yet the individualized nature of wine itself also has a singular uniting factor that brings people together, whether it’s to celebrate, commiserate or simply strengthen the bonds of friendship. Greater Lansing has a wide variety of special spots where residents enjoy gathering and raising a glass in what author John Fante referred to as “the brotherhood of the grape.”

DUSTY’S CELLAR Since 1981, Dusty’s Cellar at 1839 Grand River Ave. in Okemos has been providing local residents and visitors a sophisticated evening out with its upscale menu; lengthy wine and tap offerings; and several distinct spaces to meet, share and entertain. The wine bar at Dusty’s was temporarily closed during the pandemic, but the business continued to connect with its fans through special events such as Zoom wine tastings, a Sunday wine series and a four-course Italian wine dinner.

CAPITAL PRIME

Put on your pith helmet and get ready to explore the world of wine at Capital Prime. The award-winning steak and seafood restaurant at 2324 Showtime Drive in Lansing allows guests to introduce themselves to the delicate subtleties and intricacies with numerous curated wine flights featuring 2-ounce pours of four different selections. The restaurant proudly shops Michigan, so its extensive menu includes local ingredients that are handpicked daily by the trained chefs.

BEGGAR’S BANQUET Named after the classic Rolling Stones album, this gem just off the main drag at 218 Abbot Road in downtown East Lansing has been a wildly popular gathering spot for the friendly-and-casual crowd since 1973. Well-known for its rotating list of craft beers, Beggar’s Banquet also features an extensive bottle wine list and wines by the glass. Be sure to ask your server what would best pair with the extensive menu of comfort food that has a twist of elegance.

THE STATE ROOM The State Room restaurant in the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center on the campus of Michigan State University in East Lansing is repeatedly honored with the Best of Award of Excellence by Wine Spectator magazine.

The hundreds of by-theglass or bottle offerings at The State Room are unparalleled in the region, and they are paired with the restaurant’s culinary delights from its staff of professional chefs.

Check online for the latest updates on the restaurant’s reopening.

BURGDORF’S WINERY

Save the miles on your vehicle because you can visit an awardwinning winery right here in the region. With four decades of experience in hobby wine-making, the owners of Burgdorf’s Winery, 5635 Shoeman Road in Haslett, started the business in 2005 out of a three-car garage. Today their 5-acre site provides the perfect atmosphere to experience the award-winning wines produced onsite from the fruits and vegetables of local Michigan farmers.

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business / NOTABLE NEWS

PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 517 REGION Davis Named to Lobbying Guide John Davis, president and co-owner of Kheder Davis & Associates Inc., has made the 50 Names to Know in Lobbying guide in Crain’s Detroit Business.

John Davis The guide is a selection of professionals representing trade groups, major corporations, law firms, longestablished multi-client lobbying firms, sole proprietors and rising stars in this business.

CASE Receives National Recognition CASE Credit Union was awarded first place in the Alphonse Desjardins Award adult category and an honorable mention for the Dora Maxwell Award during the 2020 Credit Union National Association Awards.

The Alphonse Desjardins Award honors credit union leadership for efforts with youth and adult financial literacy. The Dora Maxwell Award recognizes community service achievements by credit unions.

Jeffrey Benson, president and CEO of CASE Credit Union, said the recognition reflects the hard work CASE puts into helping its members and the Greater Lansing area.

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“We are honored to be recognized at the national level by the Credit Union National Association,” Benson said. “These awards reflect our commitment to our members and the Greater Lansing community. They are what make us great.”

DBI Named Best in Class The Lansing-based office supply company DBI has been awarded 2021 Best in Class status by Haworth Inc. This distinction is based on exceptional performance in market development, sales, customer satisfaction, operational excellence and enterprise development.

DBI is a 10-year honoree and is one of only five dealers that have earned the Best in Class distinction each year since the program’s induction in 2012. The distinction is reserved for dealers that operate at the highest performance levels and are successful in maintaining rigorous standards over time against high-performing peer dealers. In 2021, Haworth named 23 dealerships as Best in Class. Haworth currently has 650 partners in its dealership network worldwide.

Ele’s Place Adds Board Member Ele’s Place Capital Region appointed Chad Ross of the Christman Co. to its community board. Ross is stepping in to fill the board seat held for the past six years by Christman

Vice President Amy Baumer.

“The Lansing region is fortunate to have the tremendous support that Ele’s Place provides, ensuring no child or teen in our community has to Chad Ross suffer grief alone,” Baumer said.

“Their unwavering commitment to moving this mission forward and the lifechanging results they achieve are inspiring.”

Ross added, Amy Baumer “Ele’s Place is a firstclass organization with a life-changing mission, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute to this worthwhile cause.”

Grant to Habitat Capital Region will Bring Affordable Homes to Lansing Habitat for Humanity Capital Region received a $6,330 Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grant from the State Farm Companies Foundation to provide safe, decent, affordable

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homes for first-time homebuyers in the Lansing area. The grant from State Farm will help Habitat Capital Region complete homes for two local families that will be purchasing their homes by early summer.

“We are so grateful that State Farm Companies Foundation understands the value of safe and affordable housing, especially during this pandemic, which has made the need for a healthy home more important than ever,” said Vicki Hamilton-Allen, president and CEO for Habitat Capital Region.

MDHHS Awarded Veteran-Friendly Status The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has been promoted to a gold-level Veteran-Friendly Employer by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency.

Employers in the Veteran-Friendly Employer program are recognized for their commitment to recruiting, training and retaining veterans. Employers must hire and retain a certain number of veterans and implement a number of veteran-focused human resources, support and training programs. MDHHS is one of only 14 employers to meet these criteria.

Raubolt Joins M3 Group M3 Group in Lansing has added Jordan Raubolt to its team as a senior PR/content strategist.

Raubolt is a strategic communications professional and creative storyteller with more than a decade of senior management experience in the worlds of public relations and government affairs.

Previously, Raubolt was senior counsel at SeyferthPR. He also served as senior manager at

Weber Shandwick Detroit for seven years, where he developed, managed and executed integrated communications and marketing programs to increase reputation, accelerate engagement and drive innovative solutions for an array of public and private sector clients, including the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Michigan Economic Development Corp., Spectrum Health, Priority Health, Michigan State Housing Development Authority and General Motors.

Land for Development Available in East Lansing East Lansing has partnered with NAI MidMichigan to offer 26.83 acres of commercial land in the city.

The property is at Coleman and West roads along the border of Clinton and Ingham counties. This is the center of what is referred to as the “northern tier” — north of Lake Lansing Road — where the majority of East Lansing’s vacant land is located. Following years of planning and partnerships with surrounding jurisdictions, land in this area is now ready for gateway development.

Mercantile Assists Homebuyers Mercantile Bank has committed $250,000 in funding to its Extra Credit Homebuyer Assistance Program. The program provides eligible first-time homebuyers up to $3,000 that can be applied toward loan closing costs as well as homeowners insurance and taxes if certain income or property location eligibility requirements are met.

Upfront costs associated with buying a home are often a significant obstacle for potential buyers, especially for those with low to moderate income. The program is designed

to provide resources and support to those who may need help, as well as those purchasing a home in a low- to moderate-income geographic area.

Martin Offers 16 acres in Haslett Martin Commercial Properties is offering 16.5 acres of land for mixed-use development next to a 10-acre redevelopment underway at the southwest corner of Marsh and Haslett roads in Haslett.

Zoned for five-story development, the parcel provides an ideal setting for residential and mixed-use projects and complements the independent living community slated to replace the Haslett Village Square shopping center.

Holistic Medicine Welcomes New VP The Michigan Center for Holistic Medicine announced that Claire Corr has joined the organization as vice Claire Corr president. She will be working directly with Dr. Andrea McSwain.

Corr has been a patient of the Lansing clinic since 2018 under the care of McSwain.

The peace of mind she found at the center fueled Corr’s passion to support the health and well-being of communities through a holistic and integrative approach. Corr’s focus is to see that everyone who enters the clinics has with them the best toolkit to become healthier for the long-term.

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business / BIZ TIPS

CANCEL CULTURE Are we calling out instead of calling in?

TEDI R. PARSONS, PRESIDENT AND CEO THE PROFESSIONALS FORUM LLC

Over the past several months we have all heard the term “cancel culture” and have seen celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres, Demi Lovato, J.K. Rowling and Piers Morgan (who actually canceled himself) be called out and judged on social media for their inappropriate comments or actions. Cancel culture does not discriminate, and all of us can fall prey to its swift and sometimes merciless justice.

But what exactly is cancel culture? According to Wikipedia, cancel culture (or call-out culture) is a modern form of ostracism in which someone is thrust out of social or professional circles — whether it be online, on social media or in person. Those who are subject to this ostracism are said to have been “canceled.” The expression “cancel culture” has mostly negative connotations and is commonly used in debates on free speech and censorship.

For some, once someone has been “canceled” there is no going back, and forgiveness is not granted. Cancel culture can have long-term effects, including a loss of reputation and income along with the emotional toll it can take on an individual and his or her well-being. We have all said or done things we are not proud of — and perhaps our words or actions may have not been

caught on video — but at what point do we stop calling people out and start calling them in?

According to writer and musician Eden Arielle Gordon: “Not only is cancel culture ineffective, but it can actually deter change, deepening divisions instead of building relationships that have the potential to change minds (and eventually, the world).”

So, is cancel culture really effective or are we creating greater division and missed opportunities to invite others to learn, grow, evolve and change? I will be doing more “calling in” so I can connect with others on a higher level. I want to explore and learn where the offensive comments and/or actions are coming from. Is it a case of biases or someone having received misinformation? Or was it a lapse in good judgement?

As Grandma Parsons used to say, “Tedi, sweep off your own back porch before sweeping off others.” Sage words from an incredible lady. I want to make sure that I am examining someone’s heart before their actions. Perhaps we can all use more moments of “calling in” and using these experiences to learn, grow, evolve and change ourselves.

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business / STATE/NATIONAL

A BRIEF LOOK AT STATE AND NATIONAL NEWS AFFECTING OUR REGION

BOWLING CENTERS LOOK TO BE SPARED FROM FURTHER HARDSHIPS

BY JACK TANY

For Royal Scot Golf & Bowl, it took quite a bit of work, patience and perseverance to continue rolling forward during the COVID-19 chaos.

However, the facility was able to strike a balance this year, and

by March all 60 bowling lanes were operational and being maintained according to guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“We have paid close attention to the guidelines as they have been introduced and modified over the course of the past year and have worked diligently to adhere to them,” said Todd Kwiecien, vice president of Royal Scot, 4722 W. Grand River Ave. in Watertown Township, just north of Lansing.

The past 12-plus months have been tough on all Michigan businesses, but one of the business categories especially hard hit was the iconic recreational pastime of bowling. Most bowling centers have been able to reopen with restrictions, but a few weren’t as lucky and closed for good.

Although new hope is on the horizon as the coronavirus vaccine rollout continues through the spring and summer, it also presents

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a new challenge for bowling centers since bowling is a seasonal activity that typically sees a significant drop-off in revenue as the weather turns warm.

Kwiecien noted that the governor’s executive orders related to the coronavirus closed one or more of Royal Scot’s business segments from March 2020 until January of this year. In addition to the bowling center, the facility includes a restaurant, banquet facilities and golf course, which are still operating under significant restrictions.

“The crippling executive orders and mandates, coupled with the loss of revenue as a result, has left us in a position where we are significantly understaffed,” Kwiecien said, adding that Royal Scot was able to call back staff, but not all were willing to return.

Still, the overall prognosis is positive for the state’s bowling facilities, said Bo Goergen, executive director of the 165-member Bowling Centers Association of Michigan.

“With PPP money they should be in pretty good shape if they can just hang on and position themselves for the fall (season),” said Goergen.

MACKINAC POLICY CONFERENCE MOVES TO FALL

BY RICH ADAMS

RESTAURANTEURS SHOW SPIRIT OF INGENUITY WITH GHOST KITCHENS

BY JACK TANY

While brick-and-mortar restaurants continue to slowly recover from the coronavirus, hungry consumers have kept a steady eye — and busy credit card — on the emergence of ghost kitchens.

A ghost kitchen contains equipment and facilities needed for the preparation of restaurant meals but has no dining area for walk-in customers. Ghost kitchens have emerged as a business model in response to the rapid consumer demand for restaurant delivery meals during the pandemic.

Flavortown Kitchen is a delivery-only restaurant featuring the award-winning dishes from celebrity chef Guy Fieri. Flavortown has opened a total of six such kitchens in Michigan — including one in Lansing at 2970 Town Centre Blvd., where people can purchase signature dishes like the Bourbon Brown Sugar BBQ Wings, Bacon Mac N Cheese Burger, Cajun Chicken Alfredo, and Jalapeno Pig Poppers.

Officials at Virtual Dining Concepts — which offers several restaurant brands including Flavortown Kitchen, MrBeast Burger and Bravo! Italian Kitchen — said consumers can order from the online menu (given they’re within the delivery range) through the brand’s proprietary app or through most third-party delivery carriers such as Grubhub, DoorDash, and Uber Eats.

Rich Levy co-founded three ghost kitchen concepts in Chicago: Cluckson’s, Butterclaw Lobster Co. and GuacDog. He targeted a specific niche, corporate catering, then set a 10-person minimum for orders. Levy, a partner and one employee handle all orders; and if more help is needed for events, he finds it.

“In catering, the only time you have to be on is when the phone rings and when you show up to deliver and present the food,” Levy said.

For years Michigan’s lawmakers and deal-shapers have discussed the policies and issues facing the state in a gathering against the idyllic backdrop of Mackinaw Island in the spring.

That annual meeting of the minds took an unanticipated turn last year when the Detroit Regional Chamber’s 2020 Mackinaw Policy Conference was canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic. The conference marks a return this year, but not a full return to tradition.

The 2021 Mackinac Policy Conference is set for Sept. 20-23 — a scheduling shift to the fall due to ongoing concerns surrounding COVID-19, according to Tammy Carnrike, chief operating officer of the Detroit chamber.

“We made the decision to move it to the fall in anticipation of a recovery from COVID-19,” Carnrike said. “The most important thing to us is going to make sure we’re providing a safe and healthy environment for our participants.”

She noted the event usually brings together 1,600 business leaders, state and federal lawmakers, and a gamut of others interested in molding Michigan’s future.

John Reurink, publisher of the Michigan Information & Research Service Inc., has covered the event since 1997 and has seen it evolve over the decades.

“The conference has actually changed over time,” Reurink said. “When I first started attending, it was much more policy- and Michigan politics-oriented.

It still is, but it seems to be more focused on Detroit business people mixing.”

Carnrike said the conference has helped shape solutions.

“It is one of the most successful bipartisan policy conferences in the United States to address statewide and national issues,” she explained.

It also enables the rubbing of elbows, and networking has become a key element of the event.

“I’d say it’s probably more networking now than ideas,” Reurink said. “If I had to guess … it’s about two-thirds Detroit business folks and one-third Lansing legislators, lobbyists, PR pros and journalists.”

To find out more about the conference, go to detroitchamber.com/mpc/.

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S P E C I A L A DV E R T I S E M E N T

LCC THIS SUMMER!

EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES AT LANSING’S COLLEGE

BY ANDY BRENT

As Michigan warms up from a cold pandemic winter, there are more reasons to be positive than not. We are persevering. We are finding new ways to learn, work and gather in safety. We are receiving our vaccinations.

Mostly, as we emerge into the possibilities of a postquarantine world, we are looking for opportunity.

For many, college means opportunity. Education raises the lifetime earning potential of individuals more than any other resource. Locally, Lansing Community College (LCC) has been educating for individual prosperity and a strong community workforce since 1957.

According to the Association for Public and Land Grant Universities (APLGU), the earnings gap between college graduates and those with only a high school education becomes wider with each passing year, and college-educated workers enjoy a “substantial earnings premium.” APLGU studies have determined that, per year, college graduates earn “about $32,000 more than those whose highest degree is a high school diploma.”

Recognizing the potential created by a more educated population, the state of Michigan in February launched the Michigan Reconnect Program, a $30 million tuitionfree initiative providing free community college or skills training for those aged 25 or older. Reconnect students are accepted by all Michigan community colleges and have in-district tuition and program fees paid in full by Michigan Reconnect. Students who are already enrolled in qualifying programs may also utilize Michigan Reconnect, which will pay their remaining tuition and cover any mandatory fees associated with students’ academic paths.

More than 30,000 potential students applied for free and reduced tuition programs within the first five days of the Michigan Reconnect program. To enroll in the programs, students must first apply to Michigan Reconnect through the state of Michigan. Then, students should complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enroll at their local community college. Finally, students must enroll within one year of their Michigan Reconnect program acceptance.

Once graduated, many students will transfer to four-year colleges and universities in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree or higher. At LCC, that process has recently become a much clearer path through the college’s partnership with Michigan State University (MSU) in the Envision Green program.

Envision Green provides a coordinated academic pathway from LCC to MSU. As part of the program, two MSU academic advisors work with students on LCC’s campus and provide guidance through class selection and the transfer process. In addition, MSU has made it more seamless to transfer credits from LCC to its academic programs, and will provide individual guidance to LCC students who want to complete their studies at MSU. Also, MSU will actively recruit LCC students to MSU programs. These measures make transferring from LCC to MSU a streamlined process.

LCC President Steve Robinson knows the impact LCC has on Michigan Communities.

“LCC provides a wealth of opportunities for students in our region,” Robinson said. “In addition to our academic programs in high-demand fields, programs such as Michigan Reconnect and our Envision Green program with MSU allow students to start here and go anywhere. In addition to our affordability, we have small class sizes and amazing faculty. Opportunities abound here at our college.”

The APLGU estimates those with a bachelor’s degree have a poverty rate 3.5 times lower than those with only a high school diploma. Additionally, those aged 22-27 can expect to earn more than $14,000 more per year than those of the same age with only a high school diploma.

Bo Garcia, dean of Community Education and Workforce Development at LCC, knows the opportunities Michigan Reconnect and Envision Green will create for students in Michigan.

“LCC is a tremendous resource for students in many ways,” Garcia said. “First, by offering smaller class sizes, students will experience greater personal attention, and one-on-one time with faculty and staff. Second, because many students attend part time, LCC offers a comprehensive class schedule throughout the day, so anyone interested in taking one or two classes at a time, has the same chance for success as a full time student. This makes LCC a great option for nontraditional students like parents, first generation students, and others who wish to balance college with family and work.”

Envision Green and Michigan Reconnect are of particular importance because they make education more affordable and more accessible for students at community colleges, which in turn builds a more robust and agile workforce for Michigan communities.

“This makes LCC a great option for nontraditional students like parents, first generation students, and others who wish to balance college with family and work.”

LCC student Dakeyia Scott learned an LCC education means opportunity for those who might not otherwise seriously consider attending college at all. “I think LCC is much more than just an affordable place to go to college,” she said.

“That’s definitely a benefit but when you look at our program offerings, the quality and expertise of our faculty, and the support services we provide to students – those are all opportunities to help our students be successful,” Scott said. “We have great partnerships with employers and transfer universities; when students come here, they really can chart a path for what they want their future to look like and we are set up in such a way to be able to help that become a reality for them.”

Photography by Kevin Fowler

business / ON THE RECORD

PRESCRIPTION FOR THE BLUES

The connection between a musician and the audience is a cyclical one. Both the performer and those in attendance are driven from the electricity and energy the other provides.

That symbiotic relationship has been in short supply over the past year; however, with the easing of pandemic restrictions comes the hope that live music with a live audience will no longer be a rare commodity.

Freddie Cunningham, for one, is ready to retake the stage as the frontman of the popular Lansing band Root Doctor.

“The live audience is the driving force behind the music. The more they are enjoying it, the more I enjoy them enjoying it. One feeds the other,” said the singer. “Little by little we’re getting calls. We got a couple of calls this week, so we’re getting back into the swing of things a little bit. All of them are outside, and that’s what we’re shooting for. We’re not looking for anything inside yet.”

Root Doctor’s first audition came in June 1989, earning the band a regular weekend slot at the former Tango’s supper club in the Knapp’s Centre in downtown Lansing.

“It was kind of a cabaret-type atmosphere. My brother played Thursday nights, and our band played Friday and Saturday nights,” Cunningham said. “It was good while it lasted, however many years that lasted. We met a lot of people. If you talk to people who know anything about Lansing music, they can tell you that Tango’s was a hot spot.”

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ROOT DOCTOR SINGER READY TO RETURN TO THE STAGE

BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY

In its ongoing three-plus-decade run, Root Doctor has not only gained a large fanbase, but it has earned numerous local awards and accolades for the band’s fusion of blues, jazz and pop.

“There are a lot of people in Lansing who like music and like us.

I’m just really proud I’ve been able to do what I’ve been doing for 30-odd years,” Cunningham said.

Still, the past year has been a tough time for musicians.

Cunningham is retired from his career at Michigan State University’s WKAR, so performing was always about the music and never the income.

“But what I feel for are the guys who are doing this for a living. It’s been hard,” he said. “By the same token, I’m not going to risk my life or your life just because I want to play.”

As the weather turns and the pandemic-related news continues to improve, hopefully this spring and summer will allow Cunningham to reconnect in-person with local music fans and recharge that musicianaudience relationship.

“The best part about what I do is when the night’s over and everybody’s happy and it’s turned out the way you wanted it,” he said.

“It might be a new place that we hadn’t been to before where there are people who haven’t heard this music before. At the end of the night, everybody is comfortable. You’re tired, but it’s a good tired.”

business / PERSPECTIVE

TAPPING INTO SUCCESS BRIAN RASDALE, OWNER OF BAD BREWING CO. IN MASON

BY KYLE DOWLING

Q& A

How do you feel that the community has helped your business in the last year?

The community has really supported us by buying “to go” beer, merchandise and gift cards more than they normally do. The community has really been getting behind small businesses.

Do you usually take part in summer or fall block parties, and will those be happening this summer?

As of right now, no. But as soon as we can have that many people outside, we will be doing so. We have submitted all our parties for approval; but until the orders get changed so that we can have a decent amount of people, it does not make sense to do so.

20 BEERS ON TAP

How has it been for your staff through the last year?

It has definitely been tough. I do not know the

exact numbers offhand, but our gross sales are down at least 50%. As a smaller company, we do not have as much overhead, but it has still been rough. A lot of our employees were able to get unemployment, which helped; but they were definitely not making as much as they were.

But now we have been able to get pretty much everybody back that we had prior.

Has the pandemic changed how you plan to do things in the future?

Of course. We will probably never have paper menus again. Everybody has been using QR codes, and it’s just a better solution than to have to print our all those menus and waste the paper. We are also doing a lot more canning. Before, we were only putting special releases in cans, but now we are offering basically all our beer in “to go” cans.

Has the time in the pandemic given you new beer ideas that you want to bring to the public?

That’s the thing; we’ve been brewing the entire time, just not as much as before. But we are always coming up with new and different stuff.

That is what makes it fun for us. We usually have 20 beers on tap on any given week; and if you come a week or two later, a quarter of that menu will have changed. We are constantly tweaking one of our beers or coming up with new ones.

We really enjoy messing around with the recipes and using different ingredients. It’s what makes brewing fun.

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Call me today at 517.253.8563 With 20 years of experience serving successful women and their families in the Lansing area, Stephanie uses her comprehensive approach to financial planning to provide advice for women who want to be empowered and informed as they make complex decisions about their future.

for a complimentary initial consultation.

As the only Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® (CDFA®) in Lansing*, she believes that freedom and independence are core values of successful women, regardless of marital status.

Stephanie Milosavlevski

CFP®, CDFA® Financial Advisor 2139 Commons Parkway Okemos, MI 48864 • 517.253.8563 stephanie.j.milosavlevski@ampf.com ameripriseadvisors.com/stephanie.j.milosavlevski *Source: Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts (IDFATM). Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and CFP (with plaque design) in the U.S. The initial consultation provides an overview of financial planning concepts. You will not receive written analysis and/or recommendations. Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2020 Ameriprise Financial, Inc., All rights reserved. 3204073ACMR0820

Patty Barnas 517.318.3344

Jennifer Marsh 517.318.3345

Melanie Squires 517.347.7640

fnbmichigan.com

Tune in to DeDe in the Morning on Stacks 92.1 for recommended titles from CADL’s digital collection.

Visit cadl.org/DeDe 101 S. Washington Square, Lansing 48933 | 517.319.8000.

lifestyle

PLACES p.30 FAMILY CORNER p.32 STYLE p.34 FOOD p.35 NONPROFIT p.38

MAY IS FOR MOM

Mom has had quite a year.

Whether it was home schooling or simply worrying about keeping the family safe throughout the pandemic, the stresses a mom feels are like no other. Moms-to-be had to struggle as well carry the weight of making very important decisions about coronavirus vaccines. While moms love a thoughtful gift, perhaps the most important thing you can do for her is give her some breathing room for self-care. Serving breakfast in bed or offering an at-home pedicure and a salon certificate for when she feels safe getting salon services make great gifts. Time is also of value. If you don’t see Mom much, plan a personal visit or even a Zoom call and give her your undivided attention. Many reading this who no longer have their moms will agree that they long for more time with them. Don’t let the moment pass you by.

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lifestyle / PLACES

t ent a cont more G.COM A 517M

WE WANT THE AIRWAVES WRITER JOINS THE TEAM AT STACKS 92.1 PHOTOS AND ARTICLE BY METRO MELIK

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did you know AM STANDS FOR AMPLITUDE MODULATION AND FM STANDS FOR FREQUENCY MODULATION.

I’m likely not the only person who got some of my first introductions to the exotic unknowns and oddities that awaited to be discovered outside my tiny microcosm through the radio disc jockeys I listened to as a child.

I fondly remember my first manual-dial transistor radio with a pull-out antenna. It was electrifying even without testing the 9-volt battery with my tongue. Hearing songs coming from different parts of the planet filled me with excitement. Listening to the local on-air personalities share news and interesting tidbits made me feel a little more worldly. Learning about the different artists allowed me to travel in my mind while I was alone in my room in small-town Oscoda.

There was something that seemed magical and innocent and maybe even a little bit

radio roundup

dangerous about all the foreign terrain that was out there to be explored beyond my limited horizon at that point.

Listening to Detroit native Casey Kasem as he hosted his “American Top 40” song countdown had me mesmerized with new music and stories from far-off places. That little radio was a time- and space-traveling machine.

I had always been curious about who and what was on the other side of those radio waves. As an adult, I’m still just excited about how so many different details can come together and get blasted into the air, reach an antenna and bring an aural euphoria out of the speakers on the receiving end.

Many people make a radio station. An engineer to make sure the equipment is fully functioning all day, every day. A station

With apps like Spotify, you may think radio is a dying medium. But there are plenty of reasons radio is still present.

•

Local personalities provide thoughts and insights related to your specific region and allow you to form a personal connection to the DJ on the air.

manager leading a sales team to generate money to keep the station on air. The scheduler placing commercials. A program director who decides what is played on the station. And, of course, the ambassadors of your favorite radio stations: the on-air personalities. The amount of people-power that goes into keeping that music pumping is astounding.

All of that is why I am absolutely giddy about being invited to be the latest addition to Stacks 92.1 (WQTX-FM), which is where the photos on these pages were taken. After I learn to push the correct buttons and speak at the correct times, you’ll be able to hear me weekday afternoons.

In the meantime, take a tour through the images on these pages, and introduce yourself to the people and the tools it takes to make the radio magic happen.

• •

•

Local radio dials you in to local news, sports and weather.

Local radio provides music programming that’s tailored to fit the lifestyle and culture of the region.

Local radio supports local businesses through advertising.

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lifestyle / FAMILY CORNER

MAKING MOMENTS

COUNT WITH KIDS

BY CHERYL LINDEMANN, COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST AT CAPITAL AREA DISTRICT LIBRARIES AND A CO-HOST OF THE LIBRARY’S PODCAST, READER’S ROUNDTABLE EDITION

For many families, the pandemic has turned the idea of entertainment inside out. I can’t count the number of times I’ve suggested that we go and (insert pre-COVID-19 activity here), then had to stop myself. My family has worked together to find ways to safely support local businesses, making lists of places and activities we’re excited to experience.

One place where we consistently find entertainment is our own backyard and neighborhood. We’ve been walking, playing outdoors, doing some planting, and watching birds and other wildlife. We even added a tree to our landscape — a ginkgo sapling that received the level of welcome usually reserved for a new sibling.

For busy moms, it’s a great feeling to take the time to witness the freedom and space children find when being outside. Author Richard Louv, co-founder of the Children & Nature Network, wrote, “Now more than ever we need nature as a balancing agent.” I’ve found inspiration in Louv’s books, including “Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder” and “Vitamin N: The Essential Guide to a Nature Rich Life.” These titles can both be found at Capital Area District Libraries in several formats.

I recently enjoyed a special mother-daughter “nature moment” while working in our yard. After planting seeds for hardy annual vegetables and flowers, my daughter wanted to learn how to repot a ranunculus plant. I showed her the basics, but she wanted to do the work herself. As she sat admiring her pot on the front step, she said in a delighted tone, “Mom, you’re teaching me how to garden!”

Experiences like this remind me that you never know as a mom what will resonate with your child. But sharing something you care about with them is always a great place to start.

cool pets THE AWESOME AXOLOTL The axolotl is a unique pet in that it looks a bit like a fish — but when you see its legs, you’ll know it’s actually an aquatic amphibian. They are a fairly common pet; however, they are critically endangered in the wild. A fun fact: They are one of the most scientifically studied salamanders because they can regenerate nearly any part of their bodies. As with all pets, do your research before you bring one home so that you can take proper care of your new friend.

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recipe

SURPRISE MOM WITH

A STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE TRIFLE CUP THIS SUPER-SIMPLE RECIPE WORKS BEST WHEN THE RECIPIENT OF A TRIFLE CUP IS A MOM, STEPMOM, GRANDMOTHER, MOMTO-BE, PET MOM … YOU GET THE IDEA. WHAT YOU’LL NEED: A PRETTY VESSEL, BE IT A MASON JAR, DESSERT CUP OR WINE GLASS STRAWBERRIES ANGEL FOOD LOAF COOL WHIP OR WHIPPED HEAVY CREAM MINT LEAVES FOR GARNISH WHAT TO DO: WASH AND CUT YOUR STRAWBERRIES INTO QUARTERS, SAVING A FEW WHOLE ONES TO USE FOR GARNISH. PLACE A SMALL AMOUNT OF ANGEL FOOD CAKE IN THE BOTTOM OF YOUR CUP. TOP WITH A LAYER OF QUARTERED STRAWBERRIES AND A LAYER OF WHIPPED CREAM. REPEAT LAYERS UNTIL THE GLASS IS NEARLY FULL. TOP WITH STRAWBERRIES AND MINT LEAVES FOR GARNISH.

craft idea local craft store)

FUN AND EASY FAIRY GARDEN FLOWER POT THIS SIMPLE DIY TOOK US LESS THAN AN HOUR TO COMPLETE. IT WILL LOOK LOVELY INSIDE OR OUTSIDE. WHAT YOU NEED:

• Glue gun and lots of glue sticks (You can also use multipurpose glue)

• Small amount of Gorilla Glue • Small, smooth stones from home or your favorite craft store • Floral moss • Fairy door (Available in the garden department of your

• Terra cotta pot (The size you get should depend on the size of your fairy door)

WHAT TO DO:

• Prep your pot by cleaning and drying it.

• Dampen your pot just where you’ll be gluing your garden door, and use Gorilla Glue to attach the door to your pot.

Sometimes the Gorilla Glue will seep out and turn white.

Don’t worry if this happens; you can cover it with moss.

• Using your glue gun or multi-purpose glue, begin to apply your stones, making sure to vary the colors.

• You can add moss as you go or fill in the cracks between stones with moss after you are finished. We found it easier to apply the moss as we went, using the same glue method.

• Feel free to purchase other fairy garden accessories, and follow your own lead on this fun craft. Keep it for your own garden or give it as a gift.

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lifestyle / STYLE

STEPPING OUT KEEP THE COMFORT FOR AN EVENING ON THE TOWN

BY ERIN HAGEN

N

ow that some live shows and entertainment are coming back in a limited capacity, does anyone remember how to dress?

After the months of lockdown and self-quarantining, it can feel a bit jarring to have to dress for certain occasions, especially the more elegant ones; however, there’s no need to let the idea of an evening on the town turn into a night-out nightmare.

I remember watching the Grammy Awards and people wore masks that matched their dresses. I’m not sure anyone needs to take it that far, but it’s exciting to dress up again once in a while — and you can keep it classy while still maintaining comfort.

One of my personal favorite transition pieces from the office to an evening out is the new twist on joggers. We’ve worn joggers for so long now at home, you don’t have to give them up to go out. They come in leather, silk and velvet materials now. Even some of the high-tech

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fabrics have a nice sheen to them that can have a dressy appearance.

Any of these varieties paired with the cute jacket and shoes can be a great work-to-evening outfit. It’s fun to pull them up on your calf for a sporty capri look too.

I’m also a huge fan of dresses; they are easy to accessorize, comfortable and can also be great transition pieces. For instance, a short black dress with a blazer at the office can be easily transformed for evenings with a fun, clean pair sneakers and a denim jacket in favor of the blazer from the office.

Or a long-sleeve maxi dress with a belt and heels for the office can be switched with the same ease as the short version.

Dressing up can be fun, but don’t try to reinvent the wheel.

Think of the things that you have been happily wearing for months but dressing them up rather than going back to the way you dressed before the pandemic. I’ve learned a lot during this time, but my biggest take home is always trying to be comfortable wherever I am or whatever I’m doing.

lifestyle / FOOD

best of

BEST OF BRUNCH We asked readers about their favorite brunch spots in the region. For some, the definition of brunch isn’t a special buffet on a special day. It’s just eating in a certain timeframe or from all-day menus so they can order a little bit o’ breakfast and a little bit o’ lunch.

BY MARY GAJDA

FIDLER’S ON THE GRAND

GOOD TRUCKIN’ DINER

HONORABLE MENTIONS

All meals are served all day at Fidler’s on the Grand, 4805 N. Grand River Ave. in Lansing. Known as north Lansing’s neighborhood kitchen, Fidler’s serves Americana favorites.

Our readers tapped the Jamestown Loaded as a top menu choice. With four buttermilk biscuits, hand-cut red potatoes, two over-easy eggs, cheese and house-made sausage gravy — we can see why. Fidler’s cinnamon rolls were referred to as “to die for” — and if you haven’t ordered one, plan on getting a pretty giant portion.

Fidler’s isn’t messing around.

Located at 1107 S. Washington Ave. in Lansing’s REO Town, Good Truckin’ Diner is an eclectic spot for eats. Readers love the Trailer Tots smothered with sausage gravy, cheese and scallions, and overmedium eggs. Reviewers call it a cool place with friendly people. After a look at the menu, we’re intrigued by big selection of breakfast burritos with catchy names — from the Garden Slayer to the Kevin Bacon LT. Grab some “bonuts” — biscuit doughnuts and doughnut holes tossed in cinnamon-sugar with a choice of two toppings — for a little taste of the sweet life.

Readers mentioned Troppo in downtown Lansing for bloody marys. Also on the bloody mary hit list was Beggar’s Banquet on Abbot Road in East Lansing — open since 1973 and named for its the owner’s favorite Rolling Stones album. Soup Spoon Cafe, 1419 Michigan Ave. in Lansing, has some terrific breakfast “sammies” served with cafe potatoes and a brunch salad, and it was also mentioned by our readers.

Others mentioned include Capital Prime in Eastwood Towne Center and For Crepe Sake, which closed in Lansing in 2020 and reopened in East Lansing recently.

CHIME IN AND READ MORE Missed seeing your favorite place for brunch? Make sure you chime in on our Facebook page, Instagram or even send us a direct message. We publish polls once a month for upcoming issues. In the meantime, keep supporting your favorite local restaurants.

It may seem like things are getting better, but it will take some time and community support for businesses to recover losses as a result of COVID-19. And don’t forget to tip your waitstaff.

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Dine and Wine Your Way to Health The media has pushed many COVID-19 messages, but what was missing? As soon as we learned there is an increased COVID mortality associated with obesity, insulin resistance and hypertension, we could have cried-out the absolute necessity of cleaning up our lifestyle to prevent a COVID demise. In fact, 2020 would have been a perfect year to emphasize the importance of an anti-inflammatory diet, along with increased movement/exercise.

It should come as no surprise that the base of the MedDiet pyramid is vegetables and fruits of all varieties. With rare exceptions, humans can’t survive without eating plants or the important compounds derived from plants.

These “phytonutrients” are powerfully essential to health by giving your cells huge disease protection of antioxidation, immunomodulation, anti-inflammation, chemoprevention, glucose regulation and hormone modulation.

The western diet, the predominant diet of our culture, is pro-inflammatory and has countless well-documented negative outcomes including our most “popular” conditions: heart attack, stroke, cancer, obesity, diabetes, acid reflux, depression, anxiety, arthritis and dementia.

So, as you shift your family toward a MedDiet this season, here are a few tips: • Eat a rainbow of colors in your 4-5 servings of veggies and fruit a day • Eat 2-3 servings of veggies for every fruit • Consider organic (search “Clean 15 and Dirty Dozen”) • Seek in-season produce when possible • Choose veggies rich in soluble fiber such as asparagus, berries and artichokes to provide good “prebiotics” for your healthy gut bacteria • Make a family tradition to prep and cut your veggies one day a week to make them easier to eat and cook with all week long • As you dine, I recommend a 5oz glass of Pinot Noir or Malbec for the highest resveratrol content — it staves off cancer and heart disease

Help spread the news that it’s time for a change.

The most widely studied anti-inflammatory diet is the Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet). Inspired by the eating habits of Italy, Spain and Greece in the 1960s, it centers around a high consumption of vegetables, fruits, olive oil, legumes, unrefined grains and fish along with a moderate consumption of dairy (cheese and yogurt) and wine while you dine.

The MedDiet is a well-evidenced way to reduce all-cause mortality and the risk of most chronic diseases. It’s also considered the easiest diet to sustain over time since it includes so many of the whole foods we all seem to enjoy.

It de-emphasizes sugar and simple starches, cured and treat red meats and, person as with most health• To each with integrity, enhancing diets, it discourages processed foods.

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lifestyle / JACK DAVIS LEGACY NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

HEART FULL OF SOLE FOOTPRINTS OF MICHIGAN PROVIDES NEW AND GENTLY USED FOOTWEAR TO THOSE IN NEED

BY MARY GAJDA

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Helping someone with a simple and gentle gesture of assistance is a mission that, quite literally, starts from the ground up at Footprints of Michigan.

In 2014, Lansing resident Geronimo Lerma III attended a street walk with a local organization. On that walk, the group noticed a man. He was young, homeless and wearing shoes that were duct-taped and tattered. One of the walk participants made a call to her husband, who quickly delivered a pair of gently worn shoes for the man. The man lit up as he threw his extremely worn pair into the trash.

That small action and big reaction sparked the seed of an idea for Lerma. That same year he founded Footprints of Michigan. The nonprofit, which stepped up to full operation in 2018, provides warmth and dignity to those in need through the distribution of new and gently used footwear.

Like many other nonprofits, the coronavirus pandemic has affected the organization financially.

“We canceled 90% of our fundraisers,” said Lerma, noting that the organization has been forced to be creative on raising funds to continue the Footprints mission. There are no paid employees currently, including Lerma, who is executive director.

“You have to make a sacrifice to make your dreams a reality, and not receiving payroll is just one of them,”

Lerma said. “The time will come where we can afford it, but until then we will take care of those who need it the most first.”

The organization sees a future where things get back on track and it can move into one building and house everything under one roof. Lerma said Footprints of Michigan is growing in the meantime and is going to need more volunteers to assist with the processing of donations, from sorting and cleaning footwear to distribution.

Asked how the community can support the organization, Lerma said there are several options.

“The community can host shoe/ boot drives … or volunteer,” Lerma said. “Another way is financial support, whether it’s a one-time donation or a monthly reoccurring donation. It helps us sustain not just the operational cost of running the organization but purchasing of footwear when needed.”

Most people have those extra few pairs of shows in their closets that aren’t being worn, and Lerma said donating them will make a difference.

“If we have not walked a mile in their shoes, then we do not know what someone is going through,” he said.

All footwear donations are never sold and always go to those in need.

For more information about Footprints of Michigan and how you can make a “sole-ful” impact, visit footprintsofmichigan.org.

DREAM MAKER

FEATURE

PACKARD RETURNS TO LOCAL ROOTS TO OPEN INSTITUTE OF DANCERS

BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY

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39

g a farmer. in e b ic th e s y work s that thing I learned m in la p m o c my eone When som ink back to th s y a lw a d, I . are too har hard work s t’ a h T . g min days of far

Glenn’s T-shirt, Tee See Tee; hair by Grand River Barber Co. On the cover: The INstitute of Dancers performers Emma, Charlie, Eden, Collin Mariya, Arri and Nygel with Glenn Douglas Packard.

For more information, visit glenndouglaspackard.com.

Since 2017, dancers from across Michigan have made hours-long journeys multiple times each week to converge in Okemos to hone their skills and talents under the direction of Glenn Douglas Packard at the INstitute of Dancers. Packard uses his extensive experience and acumen to mentor young talent in taking that next step forward in entertainment.

“I’m that door. I can open it, but they have to dance through it,” Packard said.

Known in the industry as the “dream maker” and “dancing entrepreneur,” Packard spent 30-plus years in the entertainment world, where he rose to dizzying heights by using his earned experience to expand his career from dancer to choreographer to creative director to director to producer and even to reality-TV star on the VH1 series “Brooke Knows Best.” He has worked around the globe on the biggest stages and with the brightest stars such as Pink, Usher, Britney Spears, Whitney Houston, Ricky Martin and Marc Anthony. Packard’s work on the “Michael Jackson: 30th Anniversary Celebration” in 2001 earned him an Emmy Award nomination for outstanding choreography in television.

Yet Packard’s heroic rise was born out of humble roots.

His family moved from Detroit to Clare when he was a child so his father could pursue his own dream of becoming a farmer.

“I was milking cows. I didn’t have any connection to the entertainment industry at all,” Packard said. “I learned my

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work ethic being a farmer. When someone complains that things are too hard, I always think back to my days of farming.

That’s hard work.”

Packard was planning to enter the family business and was studying dairy management at Michigan State University when tragedy changed his trajectory. An accident on a four-wheeler at age 18 shattered Packard’s leg. The initial diagnosis was that amputation would be necessary at the knee. Surgeons managed to save the leg but doubted Packard would be able to ever walk normally again.

“As I was laying in the hospital during my rehabilitation, I had a lot of conversations with God,” he said. “You know how it was ‘Run, Forrest, run’ in ‘Forrest Gump’? For me it was ‘Dance, Glenn, dance.’ I always wanted to be a dancer and an entertainer. As soon as was able to walk again and get my walk back to normal, I stepped into my first dance class at age 21.

The rest is history. I just didn’t stop. Dance, Glenn, dance.”

His parents were initially less than enthusiastic about his career change; but just as his father decided to follow his dream of farming, Packard was determined to pursue his own dream too.

“My parents were not supportive at first, and it took them about 10 years to come around and realize this was going to be a career of mine,” Packard said. “I told my dad at one point that he was the one who was my mentor. … His

FEATURE

YOU LOVE IN LIFE TO BE HAPPY. YOU NEED TO LIVE THE LIFE YOU IMAGINE FOR YOURSELF.

“

“

YOU NEED TO DO WHAT

small little farm turned into a multimillion-dollar farming enterprise. Now my father is probably my biggest fan.

You’re not going to go to their house without him turning on YouTube or some sort of video of mine. And you’re going to be watching it for hours.”

Packard earned a scholarship to the Alvin Ailey School of Dance in New York City. Despite their reservations, his parents piled into the family pickup, drove their son to the Big Apple and dropped Packard off with his suitcases on a street corner as a stranger in a strange land.

“I didn’t know a single person in New York City. … When I got there, no one knew my name. But when I left, I made sure everyone knew my name in the dance industry,” he said.

“I spent the next 30-something years in the entertainment business in the biggest cities doing some of the most amazing shows on the planet — living in New York, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Miami,” Packard continued. “But there was always something missing in my life, and that was the lifestyle and the people of the Midwest and in Michigan.

I had finally got to the point where I was turning 50, my parents were in their 70s. I was at a place in my career where I was between projects, and I wanted to go home to my roots and be near my family.”

Packard said he founded the INstitute of Dancers to create what an American dance company should look like in

2021. The company is passionate about all styles of dance — from ballet and hip-hop to reggaeton and heels — and prides itself on being equally diverse in its members.

“We have LGBTQ and straight company members. We accept all shapes and sizes. We don’t age discriminate. If you’re 13 or 30-something, we’re here to help and get your entertainment career started,” he said. “I take all of my experiences and give these young dancers the right tools and knowledge and opportunities to succeed. Some of my young company members are turning 18 right now, and they’re already booking awards shows and music videos and films and commercials. And they’re just starting their careers. I was 18 and still farming and dancing in front of cows.”

Still, it’s his past — perhaps in particular that accident at age 18 — that provided Packard with the drive and determination to live his life to the fullest.

“Don’t wait for something bad to happen to change your life. I try to teach that to all my company members,” he said. “I am so appreciative to have my legs. Every day I wake up happy. I go to bed happy. I tell people that it’s because I am doing what I love. I found what I was meant to do in life. That’s the big secret, and I tell that to my students all the time. You need to do what you love in life to be happy. You need to live the life you imagine for yourself.”

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play REASONS TO PLAY p.44 OUT & ABOUT p.46

JAZZ MAN Musicians make their bread and butter from live performances, but musicians feed off the audience and the connection it creates as well. Some adapted during COVID-19 with virtual performances; however, there is truly nothing like getting on stage. For recording artist Phil Denny, who travels the world performing, that connection is key to his success.

“One of the greatest experiences as a musician is to be able to step out on stage and use your instrument to express yourself while creating an escape for your audience,” Denny said. “I look forward to returning to the stage soon, when it is safe and comfortable to do so. I truly miss it.”

Photo by Marvin Hall/ Studio M Portraits/ studiomportraits.com

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play / REASONS TO PLAY

Back in the Batter’s Box LANSING LUGNUTS It’s great to see the Lansing Lugnuts back in action in downtown Lansing. In May, the Lugnuts welcome the Lake County Captains and the Great Lakes Loons to Jackson Field in two, six-game series at home. The organization is working with state and local health officials to best determine stadium capacity and health regulations moving forward. For all of the latest information about the season, visit lansinglugnuts.com or call (517) 485-4500.

THIS MONTH’S EVENTS Editor’s note: Please call event venues directly to make sure times and dates haven’t changed due to cancellations and postponements related to COVID-19.

East Lansing Underground Market May 9 The East Lansing Underground Market is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the lowest level of the M.A.C. Avenue Garage. The market enhances community life by bringing customers, local growers, producers, businesses and craft artisans together in a safe space. Get more details at cityofeastlansing.com/ UndergroundMarket.

Potter Park Zoo Nights May 13 Enjoy fun after-hours from 5-9 p.m. at the Potter Park Zoo in Lansing with a night of drinks, appetizers and yard games. This series of four, smaller-scale monthly events from May through August will replace Wine & Stein to satisfy new guidelines and capacity limits. Visit potterparkzoo.org/event/zoonights_1 for more information.

Old Town Spring Cleanup May 15 Local volunteers will gather at 9 a.m. to weed, plant and clean up trash around Old Town in Lansing.

Volunteers will meet at 1232 Turner St. Bring your own gloves. Tools and bags will be provided. Mask are required during check-in as well as when you are within 6 feet of others and in any business. Sign up to volunteer at otca.wildapricot.org/event-4241768.

2021 Lansing Stroll for Epilepsy May 15 The stroll from 8-11 a.m. at Potter Park in Lansing is an inspirational event that raises funds for the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan.

A virtual stroll option is available. For details, visit epilepsymichigan.org/eventdetails. php?eventID=560.

Dewitt Take a Breath for PH and Get Moving for MS May 22 A number of races and an online auction will help battle pulmonary hypertension and multiple sclerosis. The in-person event is at DeWitt Memorial Stadium, 2957 W. Herbison Road in Dewitt. A virtual activity is available as well. For information visit dewittracephms.com.

Follow our friends at 517living.com for other upcoming events in the region.

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play / OUT & ABOUT

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W WRAP UP P

10 FOR ‘STUDIO 10’ What famous celebrity would you most like to interview?

If you had your own personal theme song, what would it be?

McCoy: Dolly Parton Harper: Britney Spears

McCoy: The theme song from “The Facts of Life” Harper: “Stand Out” from “A Goofy Movie”

What local celebrity would you most like to interview?

For someone new to the area, what activity or sightseeing adventure do you recommend?

McCoy: A Lansing Lugnuts baseball game Harper: The Lansing River Trail

What’s your favorite thing to do in the 517?

If you had to change careers today, what would you be?

What is your superpower?

McCoy: Go out to eat Harper: Workout

McCoy: Working with a Major League Baseball team, preferably the Tigers Harper: Mattel Barbie designer

Last restaurant you ate at in the 517?

McCoy: Art’s Pub Harper: Pablo’s Old Town

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What word/phrase do you admit you use too much?

McCoy: “Very good” or “Oof” Harper: “I love it” Favorite local business and lifestyle magazine?

Both: 517 Business and Life

McCoy: David Andrews Harper: Magic Johnson

McCoy: Making people laugh Harper: Multitasking

48

estions e of 10 Qu ick-fire gam u er, the q p a ar d H ye ly We pla oy and Hol cC M tudio 10” ie “S an with Steph estyle show lif d an s e new ILX-TV. hosts of th 4 p.m. on W eekdays at w rs ai at th

Good answers, ladies!

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