517 Magazine November 2020 Issue by M3 Group Publications

517 B U S I N E S S

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COMING TO A CONSENSUS Meet the 2020 Entrepreneurial Awards Judges

A SHELLEBRATED BUSINESS

Peanut Shop remains a beloved downtown mainstay

home

STAYING CLOSE TO

Big differences come from shopping small

November 2020

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Earn More While Giving Thanks

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publisher’s note

517 Magazine, Volume 1, Issue 6, November 2020.

Being Vocal About Lansing Local

reater Lansing’s unique and distinctive character is defined by the small businesses that drive its economy. Being a local business owner, I have always had a special place in my heart for the region’s entrepreneurs who identify the needs of our community marketplace and marshal the conviction and drive to fill those voids. These are the people who bring creative concepts to consumers, display their exclusive designs and skills, and — quite literally — summon a world of tastes and flavors to our doorsteps. As we dip our toes into the churning waters of the holiday shopping season this month, the gifts you purchase can benefit much more than one person if you focus on shopping local. This year more than any other in recent history, these businesses are counting on your continued commitment and loyalty to survive. The stress and weight local merchants have been straining under since spring have been financially and emotionally devasting for small businesses. These are people who have opened their visions and presented their creations for our benefit. These are the people who employ our family members, friends and neighbors. These are the people who have used the sustained support of residents to generously give back to other worthy causes that improve our area and make it a beneficial and inclusive place to live, work and play. Greater Lansing has a remarkable sense of social consciousness that strives for the true, the moral and the just. Shopping local this year is not only an act of righteous activism, it’s also an act of civic responsibility. It’s the common good that will lift up our uncommon community.

517 Magazine (USPS # 020w807) is published monthly by M3 Group at 221 W Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933. Periodicals postage paid at Lansing, Michigan USPO. 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 Magazine, 221 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933. Copyright @2020. 517 Magazine. All rights reserved. Editorial office: 221 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933. 517mag.com

Publisher Tiffany Dowling tiffany@m3group.biz Managing Editor Mary Gajda mary@m3group.biz Creative Visionary Chad Hussle chad@m3group.biz Lead Editor Christopher Nagy Contributors Rich Adams Teece Aronin Melik Brown Liz Carr Kyle Dowling Mary Gajda Dawn Haddad Erinn Hagen Laura Michels Chris Nagy Tedi Parsons Omar Sofradzija Allison Spooner Graphic Designers Lauren Brumbach Matthew McDaniel Marketing Account Specialists Jennifer Hodges jhodges@m3group.biz Liz Reno-Hayes liz@m3group.biz Megan Fleming megan@m3group.biz Melissa DeMott melissa@m3group.biz

Tiffany Dowling Publisher

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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 patrick@m3group.biz.

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Photographer Mary Gajda Videographer Michael Cagney M3 Group 221 W. Saginaw St. Lansing, MI 48933 P 517 203 3333 Subscription subscribe@517mag.com

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MEET THE 2020 ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS JUDGES

contents

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PLUS

Coming to a Consensus

13 Staying Close to Home Big differences come from shopping small

47 A Shellebrated Business Peanut Shop remains a beloved downtown mainstay

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business

contents

AREA SNAPSHOT

TRENDS

NOTABLE NEWS

BIZ TIPS

STATE/NATIONAL

ROUNDTABLE

PERSPECTIVES

A Snapshot of Local Business News Affecting the 517 A History of Small Business Saturday Professional Highlights from the 517 Region Small Business – A Big Impact on Our Local Economy A Brief Look at State and National News Affecting our Region Shopping Local

Nothing Stops the Pop

lifestyle

PLACES

KIDS’ CORNER

STYLE

FOOD

NONPROFIT

Island Oasis Eaton Rapids offers a great daytrip getaway The Art of the Thank You Supporting Trends and Neighbors Shopping locally for winter fashion Best of the 517 Turkey tips Driving Change Davies Project needs volunteer drivers, community support

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REASONS TO PLAY

OUT & ABOUT

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

DEPARTMENTS

2 PUBLISHER’S NOTE 60

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Want More Flexibility When Using Your Home Equity? Try SmartLine Home Equity Loan TM

By Deidre Davis, MSU Federal Credit Union’s Chief Marketing Officer

If you would like to make some home improvements, consolidate debt or need funds to pay for unexpected expenses, you may want to consider pulling from your largest asset — your house. Your home’s equity — the difference between the current value of your home and what you owe on the mortgage — can be utilized through a loan or a line of credit. For a home equity loan, the lender advances the total loan amount to you upfront, while a home equity credit line (HELOC) is a source of funds you can use as needed. When deciding which option is best for you, it’s important to compare loan fees and interest rates, and keep in mind that your home secures the amount you borrow — so if you don’t pay your debt, you may have to forfeit your home. There are advantages to both types of loans, depending on your needs and what you plan to use the funds for. Both home equity options give you the flexibility to use your home’s equity to your advantage, but what if you want a loan that offers the best of both options? SmartLine With MSUFCU’s SmartLine Home Equity Loan, you can have just that. A member can take a portion of their line of credit — a segment — and pay a fixed rate with a standard monthly payment for specific term. The remaining line of credit can be used at variable rate, with the line replenished as payments are made.

SmartLine offers the same great features of a HELOC, but with the option of being able to lock segments at the current interest rate. This flexibility allows members to keep track of their spending while potentially saving money. Features of SmartLine include: • Lock $2,500 or more per segment • Lock up to three segments per loan • Repayment terms of 12-180 months on locked segments • Credit limit up to $300,000 (depending on equity in the home • Replenish your credit availability with each payment It’s quick and easy to apply, and the interest may be tax deductible — although you should consult your tax adviser regarding this. To learn more, visit msufcu.org/smartline. 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.

business

AREA SNAPSHOT p.11 TRENDS p. 17 NOTABLE NEWS p. 18 BIZ TIPS p. 21 STATE/NATIONAL p. 22 ROUNDTABLE p. 24 PERSPECTIVES p. 25

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY AND EVERY DAY This month, with Small Business Saturday and the official start of holiday shopping, it is important to remember to help build back the communities that have served us for so long. While some entrepreneurs are flourishing, many businesses are in a make-or-break situation as they wrap up fourth quarters and decide how to move forward in an ongoing pandemic. Consider shopping and supporting local. Your purchases could make a difference this holiday season. 11.20 | 517

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business / AREA SNAPSHOT

A snapshot of local business news affecting the 517

NEW CORONAVIRUS SYMPTOM IS WORKER SHORTAGE BY RICH ADAMS

In February, Michigan’s unemployment rate was 3.6%. By April, when the pandemic forced shutdowns, it had exploded to 24%. Now that businesses are back in business, they face a new dilemma: a lack of people willing to go back to work. Both Tami Fedewa, vice president of Creative Staffing in DeWitt, and Kathy Valentine, owner of The Plant Professionals, said employees are hard to find. “It seems to be mainly in the general labor division, and we honestly feel that this is due to the pandemic unemployment insurance extension, along with unemployment benefits extensions,” Fedewa said. “We have had issues in the past, but not to this magnitude.” She estimated the laborer pool has decreased by at least 80%, while she is receiving plenty of resumes for other positions.

Valentine said she paid her employees a bonus for the first two months of the pandemic and most came back, but she said adding people for the landscape season was a challenge. “We raised the starting pay a half-dollar; we moved all interviewing outdoors; and really focused on creating a safe working environment and providing sanitizer, masks, etc. and stressing social distancing to protect one another,” she explained. “I think with the extra federal benefits, many were literally making more money than they could working. I understand the math, but now the money is not enough to pay bills,” Valentine said. “This pandemic is negatively impacting many parts of life ... and hiring is definitely more challenging than I thought it would be with the higher unemployment numbers.”

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business / AREA SNAPSHOT HOME FURNISHING STORES SEE COMEBACK AFTER COVID-RELATED SHUTDOWNS

WAYFAIR SERVICE CENTER FALLS VICTIM TO COVID-19 BY RICH ADAMS

BY TEECE ARONIN

The pandemic hit furniture stores hard when, deemed nonessential, they were forced to shut down. Monica Edington, co-owner with Wayne Coats of Pilgrim House Furniture in Okemos and Jackson, said times were uncertain when the business had to close in March and furlough employees. “But we have been blessed by being able to bring back 100% of our staff,” she added. Yet Edington warned that industrywide materials shortages and understaffed trucking companies have some deliveries taking up to 14 weeks. She urged anyone planning a furniture purchase to not delay, adding that Pilgrim House has its own trucks making deliveries statewide. Jacob Hill, store manager of Bradly’s HG in Lansing’s Old Town, described efforts to make the store safer. “We rearranged the product by section so people could find what they needed quickly and marked arrows on the floor to create traffic flow,” he said. He said that Bradly’s interior design services and phone orders helped tremendously, and that the pandemic spurred the store on to finish its website. Now Bradly’s is seeing national and even international sales, leaving Hill to happily conclude there were “positives among the chaos.” Cricket’s Home Furnishings in Dimondale, whose niches include flooring and lighting sales to builders, is also recovering well. Owner Beverly Fritts said, “Our interior designers and furniture sales have been very busy, and all of our employees have returned to work.” Visit these stores at cricketshomefurnishings.com, bradlyshg.com andpilgrimhousefurniture.com.

A planned Wayfair call center in Meridian Township is the latest victim of the coronavirus pandemic. The internet retail company and e-commerce giant had planned to redevelop existing office space on Hagadorn Road into a 63,000-square-foot call center, employing 500 people. The project had still been a go as recently as midSeptember. Those plans came to a halt less than a month later, when Wayfair announced in October it would use employees working from home to meet the company’s call center needs. “Wayfair made it clear that their model, at this point, is to operate their call center from the personal living rooms of their associates,” said Meridian Township Supervisor Ron Styka. “Certainly this is a blow to the entire Lansing region.” The township had worked with the Lansing Economic Area Partnership, or LEAP, in convincing Wayfair to station a call center in Meridian Township. “COVID-19 has disrupted the business landscape dramatically, leading many office users to rethink their real estate footprints,” said Keith Lambert, vice president of business attraction for LEAP. “While we were disappointed to hear that Wayfair would not be proceeding with its customer service center in the Lansing area at this time, we are confident that through the selection process we proved ourselves as a top-tier mid-sized market for call-center type projects in the U.S. based on labor availability and cost fundamentals and our unique partnership approach to talent development — and companies will choose to locate and/or expand here for those same reasons in the coming years.”

REGION’S TOP YOUNG PROFESSIONALS HONORED AT 10 OVER THE NEXT TEN AWARDS BY MARY GAJDA

The annual 10 Over the Next Ten Awards recognizes Greater Lansing’s top young professionals who are viewed as ones to watch. These professionals are known go-getters and are expected to be significant contributors to the community in the next decade. This year’s 14th annual event, co-hosted by the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce and Grand River Connection, was a virtual event held Sept. 22. Judging for the awards is based on each nominee’s professional achievement, community involvement and level of personal success thus far. The 2020 winners include Matthew Anderson, who serves as executive director at Engaged Outreach; Zachary Armstrong, a chief investment officer at Siena Investments; Ceci Bordayo,

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CEO of Pass the Mic and Pass it On Inc.; Grace Braatz-Opper, a financial representative for Modern Woodmen of America; Amanda Davis, community outreach director for WLNS-TV 6; Katie Krick, a commercial insurance producer with Cedar River Insurance Agency; Joe Lewis II, a project manager for C2AE; Lisa Nguyen, senior projects and public relations officer for Delta Dental; Josh Robertson who serves as lobbyist/political action committee manager for the Midwest Strategy Group of Michigan; and Lillian Werbin, chief operations officer/human resources director at Elderly Instruments in Lansing. With this list of highly recognizable names, there is no doubt you’ll be hearing more from them in the years to come.

FEATURE

STAYING CLOSE

TO HOME BIG DIFFERENCES COME FROM SHOPPING SMALL BY OMAR SOFRADZIJA

When you shop local, you don’t simply support a nearby entrepreneur. You’re also paying local laborers, supporting area causes and maintaining your town’s unique flourishes. “If you are shopping local, you are keeping your dollars local. You’re supporting a family; you’re putting kids through college; you’re paying somebody’s mortgage,” said Beth Herendeen, owner of longtime downtown DeWitt florist Twiggies, which recently opened its new Old Town Lansing location this fall. “It’s such a trickle effect in communities that it’s essential to keep small businesses.

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IN THE END, IF DOWNTOWNS ARE TO PRESERVE THEIR UNIQUE CHARMS, LOCAL BUSINESSES NEED YOUR HELP. 14

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“They’re kind of the backbone of communities. Keeping them open, keeping them supported is really essential,” Herendeen added. That’s always been true, but it’s especially critical now, as smaller local businesses more reliant on in-person sales have been hit hard by restrictions prompted by the coronavirus pandemic. “It’s been brutal, the pandemic,” said Carolyn Hough-Miller, owner of Grand Ledge’s About the Home, a home furnishing “lifestyle” shop. “It really makes a huge difference when you shop local. It makes all the different in the world. A lot of times, we can perform faster than Amazon. “I would urge everyone to reach out to their favorite local business this holiday season and show them some love, because it’s been very difficult for small businesses through this whole thing,” she said. While local businesses are anchored on creating expectations through personalized service, some entrepreneurs used the pandemic as motivation to evolve how they do things while retaining personalized touches. Hough-Miller started working with customers through FaceTime, a video conferencing tool. Both she and Herendeen beefed up their online presences. “We kind of pivoted,” Herendeen said. “It gave us an opportunity to set up a website and get ready to do e-commerce business online, where we could do porch deliveries” and other new services. “We broadened our horizons and actually gained clients during that time.” But Herendeen acknowledged “my situation is a little different than what some other people’s may be.” At Not So Shabby, Oh! So Chic in Jackson, a home décor and gift store, owner Michelle Moore said her customer base is “100% in-town.” So is her dedication to empowering customers. “One of the greatest things we do is a woman may come in here because she just finished her chemotherapy and she wants to come in and treat herself to something to make herself feel good,” Moore said. “Same thing happens with classes (held by the shop). We have a group of women who are widows, and they get together and take classes, and it’s just the way we give the venue for people to feel good. You can’t get that online.” In the end, if downtowns are to preserve their unique charms, local businesses need your help. Otherwise, we may see a resurgence of the “Walmart Effect” from years past, where big retailers sucked dollars — and retailers — out of city centers, leaving blight behind. “If you want your local community to stay vibrant, you have to invest in that, just like anything else,” Hough-Miller said.

FEATURE

THE OPTIONS OF GOING LOCAL Want to shop locally but are worried about the coronavirus? Don’t fret. Small-business owners can work with you to get you what you need and keep you feeling comfortable. Here’s some advice from businesspeople in the Greater Lansing region: • • •

SAFETY COMES FIRST. Many small-business owners are maintaining social distancing, enforcing store occupancy limits and providing hand sanitizer to keep customers safe and spaced apart. CALL FIRST. Small-shop owners may be more flexible than chain stores in accommodating shoppers through custom or special hours, creating improvised purchase pickup or delivery options, and whatever else work for both seller and buyer. CHECK ONLINE. The pandemic has led many small businesses to start offering products through shop websites. Others are selling through eBay shops or listing deals via social media.

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business / TRENDS

A HISTORY OF SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY SMALL BUSINESSES ACROSS THE UNITED STATES GET A BIG BOOST EACH YEAR THROUGH SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY, WHICH FALLS ON NOV. 28 THIS YEAR. HERE’S THE BACKGROUND ON HOW AND WHY THE EVENT STARTED.

Celebrating 10 Years Small Business Saturday was first observed on Nov. 27, 2010. According to Wikipedia, the event was created by American Express in partnership with Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino, the Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Boston-based nonprofit Roslindale Village Main Street. Held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, Small Busines Saturday was meant to serve as a counterpart to Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Gaining Quick Traction The inaugural event was held while the nation was battling back from a recession. On the American Express website, the company said that the mission of Small Business Saturday was to aid small businesses that served as the core of local neighborhoods. The following year, the shop small movement had gained momentum and the U.S. Senate passed a resolution in 2011 in support of Small Business Saturday.

Support and Participation Grow According to the Farm Bureau Financial Services website, in 2012 American Express encouraged smallbusiness owners to promote their businesses, and the credit card company offered small-business owners free, personalized ads to spread over the internet. That year, an estimated $5.5 billion was spent across the nation at independent businesses. By 2013, neighborhoods began celebrating the day and pledging support to local businesses and organizations.

Awareness Increases Each Year Participation in Small Business Saturday continues to grow year after year. Figures compiled by Farm Bureau Financial Services indicate that more than 95 million people shopped at small businesses on Small Business Saturday in 2015 and spending reached $16.2 billion. In 2016, Small Business Saturday reached record highs, with 72% of U.S. consumers aware of the day and an estimated 112 million shoppers.

Why It’s Important Small businesses are the backbone of the U.S. economy. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses make up more than 99% of all businesses in the nation and employ more than 47% of the private workforce. While large chain retailers and online marketplaces get their due in the postThanksgiving holiday shopping rush, Small Business Saturday draws attention to the importance of small businesses and highlights their vital impact on local communities.

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business / NOTABLE NEWS

PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 517 REGION Martin Obtains Management Contract Martin Commercial Properties recently obtained the contract for property management of the 2900 West Road building, an 80,000-squarefoot office structure in East Lansing. The building is near the Eastwood Towne Center and houses several businesses such as Independent Bank, McLaren Greater Lansing, Thurn Law Firm and Morgan Stanley. Danile Sermak, senior estate manager at Martin, will be the property manager for the location. Martin will provide full-service property management including predictive and preventative maintenance, maintaining tenant relations, and accounting. Martin will also be providing leasing services for the property, as it has been since the building’s inception in 2002. Eric Rosekrans, senior vice president and office adviser at Martin, oversees the leasing activity, which historically has been at high occupancy levels. Beyer Takes the Helm at NexTech NexTech High School of Lansing has announced a new school leader for the 2020-2021 academic year. Nathan Beyer started at NexTech Lansing in 2017 as a science teacher for the blended learning academy and has transitioned from interim school leader to the official position. Beyer has worked to increase his engagement in the leadership at the school, started the school’s first robotics program in 2017 and has been working as the program’s lead mentor. The following year, he sat on the strategic planning board to assist in developing

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the NexTech five-year plan to revamp the mission and vision for the future of the school. Before stepping into the role of interim school leader, he held the position of student support interventionist, an administrative role dedicated to improving student performance. “I believe in the vision of our program. Our school embodies the ‘student-first’ mentality in a way that deserves to be emulated throughout the educational realm,” Beyer said. “This focus on our students and their wellbeing above all else has allowed us to flourish and will continue under my leadership.” First National Bank Opens Branch First National Bank of Michigan has announced plans to open a branch and relocate its Lansing loan production office to

101 S. Washington Square. This will become the sixth branch of First National Bank of Michigan. Other branches are in Kalamazoo County, downtown Grand Rapids and Holland. First National Bank of Michigan is a 14-yearold locally owned and operated bank. First National occupied the space in October, after renovations were completed. “The decision was based on our commitment to be visible and accessible in the Lansing area, along with our desire to grow and expand our business,” said Patty Barnas, market president. “Along with proximity to the business district, this location aligns with our community banking focus and the history of banking in this building.” The building was originally constructed as the Lansing State Savings Bank in 1918.

First National Bank of Michigan

close after a series of licensing issues and changes in lease terms. The company started the reapplication process for licensing in the state in 2015 and has spent the last three years rebuilding the manufacturing facility located in north Lansing.

Amarily “Lily” Mendez Laporte

Nurse Recognized as Outstanding Latino Caregiver of the Year Amarily “Lily” Mendez Laporte, a Sparrow Clinton Hospital emergency department nurse, has been recognized as Sparrow’s Outstanding Latino Caregiver of the Year. “I am truly honored. Winning this award makes me feel I’m doing what I need to do as a nurse,” stated Mendez Laporte. Mendez Laporte, who lives near Montrose in the Chesaning area, has been a Sparrow caregiver since 2017. She has received numerous nominations for the award from colleagues, physicians and hospital leaders who lauded her professionalism, her ability to swiftly identify a patient’s condition, her spirit of teamwork and her calming approach. Mendez Laporte was recognized in a ceremony that included representatives of the Lansing Latino Health Alliance and Sparrow leaders. Mendez Laporte has also received a congressional resolution through U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin. The Outstanding Latino Caregiver Award was established in 2016 by the Lansing

Latino Health Alliance to recognize talented caregivers and to encourage members of the Latino community to consider careers in health care. The Lansing Latino Health Alliance is a nonprofit organization with the mission of improving the health status of Latinos in the Greater Lansing area. Lansing Marijuana Dispensary Opens for Business Bazonzoes Provisioning Center, which is in the heart of Lansing at 2101 W. Willow St., had its grand opening Sept. 10. Bazonzoes, which will eventually offer both medical and adult use marijuana, is the first of a total of three locations that the company will be opening in Michigan. “The plan is for this Lansing location to be the headquarters of Bazonzoes. Eventually we will be growing, processing and distributing to other locations all from within this facility,” said Ryan McMullen, co-owner of Bazonzoes. Bazonzoes originally opened in 2010 in Walled Lake, but decided to temporarily

Attorneys Selected as Super Lawyers and Rising Stars Seven attorneys from the Lansing office of Foster Swift Collins & Smith have been selected to be featured in the 2020 Michigan Super Lawyers list, while two others have been selected as Rising Stars. Only 5% of the lawyers in Michigan are selected by Super Lawyers, while the Rising Stars list recognizes no more than 2.5% of attorneys in each state. The lawyers listed in the 2020 Michigan Super Lawyers list are Charles E. Barbieri in environmental, Richard C. Kraus in appellate, Scott L. Mandel in business litigation, Douglas A. Mielock in estate and probate, Patricia J. Scott in civil litigation: plaintiff, Webb A. Smith in business litigation, and Scott A. Storey in energy and resources. The attorneys in the Rising Stars list are Zachary W. Behler in business litigation and Allison M. Collins in insurance coverage. Martin Takes Management of East Lansing Site Martin Commercial Properties recently obtained the contract for property management of 4050 Hunsaker, a 12,360-square-foot building in East Lansing. The site is north of the Abbot and Lake Lansing roads intersection in the Chandler Crossings area. It is minutes from the U.S. 127/ Lake Lansing Road interchange. The building is owned by 4050 LLC. Danile Sermak, senior estate manager at Martin, will be the property manager for the location. Martin will provide full-service property management including predictive and preventative maintenance, maintaining tenant relations, and accounting. Martin will also be providing leasing services for the property, as they have been since February 2019. Eric Rosekrans, senior vice president and office adviser at Martin, oversees the leasing activity.

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business / BIZ TIPS

SMALL BUSINESS – A BIG IMPACT ON OUR LOCAL ECONOMY VISIT 517MAG.COM FOR MORE CONTENT

BY TEDI PARSONS PRESIDENT & CEO, THE PROFESSIONALS FORUM LLC THEPROSFORUM.COM

With the pandemic still raging forward, now — more than ever before — we must support the small businesses and entrepreneurs that make up our communities. According to the Small Business Administration, in 2019 there were approximately 30.7 million small businesses in the United States, which accounted for 99.9% all U.S. businesses. Small businesses, which employ less than 50 individuals, create over 1.5 million jobs annually and account for more than 64% of all new jobs created in the nation. Because of the pandemic, we are seeing that smaller companies with fewer than 20 employees being impacted the most by cutting hours, laying-off or terminating staff and no longer using consultants or subcontractors. This most likely is due to a lack of cashflow and accessible capital.

Small businesses and up-and-coming entrepreneurs can be the backbone of our communities, creating new jobs, boosting the local economy, and bringing life, charm and character to otherwise empty storefronts. “Entrepreneurs and small businesses are truly the lifeblood of our economy,” said Shiawassee Economic Development Partnership President and CEO Justin Horvath. “They create jobs for local residents, buy goods and services from other area firms, donate to nonprofits and community causes, and pay taxes to support schools and governments. In return, we must do everything we can to support their efforts to succeed,” Why shop and buy local? When supporting the small businesses and entrepreneurs that make up our

communities, we keep the local economy flowing and robust. When we spend $100 shopping local, $68 stays in our communities, but when we utilize online businesses like Amazon or Walmart, only $43 of every $100 we spend remains. Additionally, shopping local can lead to a multiplier effect, helping create strong, vibrant and healthy communities. Other benefits to shopping local include finding one-of-a-kind, unique or handmade gifts; receiving customized and personalized customer service; enhancing our sense of community; and reducing our carbon footprint by not traveling long distances to shop at the mall or big-box stores. So, the next time you need that perfect gift; a birthday card; lunch, dinner or a tasty treat; head down the street and shop local.

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business / STATE/NATIONAL

DETROIT AUTOMAKERS HAVE BIG PLANS FOR 2021 BY TEECE ARONIN

A BRIEF LOOK AT STATE AND NATIONAL NEWS AFFECTING OUR REGION 22

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If you’re wondering about the new models Ford, Fiat Chrysler and General Motors have in store for 2021, we’ve got details on some of their favorites. Chrysler’s consistently in-demand Pacifica, minivan is back, offering what the automaker calls “the pinnacle of family rides.” Chrysler has made a 10.1-inch dashboard touchscreen standard along with several safety features. The Pacifica’s base model is the Touring, which, according to Car and Driver has a base price starting at $36,540. If you’re in the market for something a little showier, you can check out the Pacifica Pinnacle with Nappa leather and a woodtrimmed interior. “For more than 35 years, Chrysler has led innovation, and the new 2021 Chrysler Pacifica and Pacifica AWD … are designed to build on that position,” said Tim Kuniskis, global head of Alfa Romeo and head of passenger cars. “The new premium Pinnacle model, and the new 2021 Pacifica is America’s most capable and most technologically advanced minivan.” Over at GM, the Yukon line of SUVs is getting a lot of attention, with the Next Generation Yukon SLE/SLT starting at $50,700. These vehicles offer 16-20 mpg, the SLE seats up to nine passengers and the Yukon AT4 full-size offers a four-wheel drive configuration. Some of the line’s exterior features include the satin-chrome multidimensional Denali grill and advanced lighting with LED headlamps. Meanwhile, Ford is bringing back the Bronco, including its first-ever four-door version. The 4x4 Bronco offers “smart off-road technology” and select models have stowable roof panels and doors. Want to skip the beaten path and go offroad? The Bronco offers segment-exclusive digital trail mapping that allows planning, recording and sharing from an all-in-one app. Base MSRP for the Ford Bronco is $29,995. “Our dream for Bronco was not just to design a family of vehicles people would love, but to build a community around people who love to go off-road and get into the wild, who want to customize and personize their Broncos, and share experiences with each other,” said Jim Hackett, Ford president and CEO.

A ROLLER COASTER OF CONSUMER SPENDING

RECRUITERS SEE OPPORTUNITY IN CHANGING JOB MARKET

BY LAURA MICHELS

BY ALLISON SPOONER

Michigan’s economic recovery is due in part to Michiganders being willing to part with their cash, according to some economists. “Consumer spending in the state has really held up well,” Michael McWilliams, a state economic forecaster with the University of Michigan, said in an August interview. During the early months of the shutdown, state spending dropped. However, in August Michigan spending exceeded where it was in January. Conversely, in August spending nationwide dipped below where it was in January of this year, according to McWilliams. McWilliams attributed the bounce to the federal coronavirus relief bill pumping $40 billion into the state’s economy. That includes the $600 in extra weekly unemployment insurance. “That really, really helped keep consumer spending up,” he said. Measuring a retailer’s heartbeat depends on its sector and merchandise, according to Meegan Holland of the Michigan Retailers Association. Some tourism-related businesses have done exceptionally well, she said. “Some have said they’ve had the best summer ever,” she said. Groceries, hardware stores and companies that sell outdoor adventure sports equipment are thriving, she said. Other businesses that depend on items such as back-to-school shopping may not fare as well, she said. To that end, the Michigan Retailers Association reported an almost 12% drop from July to August on its retail index survey, which measures retail performance. The association’s message in a September news release quoting CEO Bill Hallan was one of weathering the storm. “We’ll likely see this roller coaster for a while as retailers figure out how to adapt to changing consumer shopping habits,” he said.

The pandemic job market seems bleak for those out of work; however, while industries like automotive, construction and manufacturing may see permanent job losses, recruiters say the forecast is not hopeless. “There are companies within every industry, even those hardest hit, looking for good people to bring in,” according to Brandon Malson, CEO of SplitReq. Brad Minton, career coach and owner of Mint to be Career, said the job market landscape is turbulent but not dead. “While many industries like retail, restaurant, entertainment and tourism have been hurt, others such as grocery, digital content, health care and shipping/delivery are thriving,” he said. Malson said it’s the companies that were well-positioned and prepared for a downturn before the pandemic hit that are thriving when others are struggling. The Small Business Association of Michigan reported that most industries in Michigan are considered fast-recovering. Gabriel Ehrlich of the University of Michigan’s Research Seminar in Quantitative Economics, said, “We are expecting the fast-recovering industries to recover 127,000 jobs next year and those industries to recover to their pre-pandemic employment levels by the middle of 2022.” But that’s a long time for those who are unemployed. “With increased competition, job seekers need to great creative and consider alternate ways to leverage their existing knowledge and skills,” Minton said. With job boards seeing a lot of white noise, Malson recommended job seekers get in touch with recruiters who specialize in their industry. He also urged job seekers to take advantage of the possibilities remote work presents. “The key for all job seekers during this time is the ability to remain adaptable,” said Minton. “It can’t be business as usual.”

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business / ROUNDTABLE

SHOPPING LOCAL 517 MAGAZINE ASKED LOCAL SMALL-BUSINESS OWNERS WHY THEY FELT IT WAS IMPORTANT TO SHOP AND SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS.

MEGAN RHEA VAN DOHERTY ATTA

OWNER, OLD PRESIDENT OF TOWN F.D. HAYES ELECTRIC STORE GENERAL CO. Over to Prior the COVID-19, years, I have we added had identified many adaptability as oneproducts Michigan-based of the core to strengths encompass that a whole has led array to our of great business’s products longevity. to COVID-19our complete hasselection. proven thisWe is true all know and taken that it a step further, shopping local keeps as being theadaptable local economy and agile is now key to our survival vibrant. Shopping at Oldas Town a small General business. We arenot Store in aonly continuous supports cycle oneof store, analyzing you are the challenges supporting many presented Lansingtoand us, Michigan identifying a solution, and adapting businesses. I love shopping our focus at Soulful and process to the solution. Earth Herbals,While Monticello’s we haveMarket, done this from top to bottom Jerusalem Bakery, in our Van business, Atta’sitGreenhouse, seems like we areDots Polka adapting Boutique almostand weekly Vet’stoAce employee and customer safety issues and to maintain Hardware. government and regulatory compliance.

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NICK BERRY LINDSAY WOOD

CEO OF BLUE OWL COFFEE OWNER AND CEO

ROB SCHOLL When our spaces were reduced to

takeout-only, lost a huge part of SALES AND we MARKETING, the connection and conversation that KYMORA KANDLES had so easily helped us build into our Small businesses are an essential part of neighborhoods. We had relied on our our communities. Many form partnerships space and daily access to people to carry with one another, as well as contribute out our mission. We had to learn how to back to our small towns, schools, groups open new ways of communicating to our and communities. friends. Our neighborhoods show up every Currently, we partner with more than day to intentionally show us support. This 75 small businesses here in Michigan. energized us to launch ideas that have Whether you are visiting Oh Mi Organics been waiting for the right time. We are here in downtown St. Johns for your very grateful for their encouragement and favorite organic locally made chocolates hope to continue being a home for hope in or visit Michigan Barn Wood & Salvage our Lansing. in Mason, there are so many wonderful companies that strive to give you quality local-made products and give back to their communities in so many ways. Many are small family-owned businesses, so let’s all do our part to support one another.

TARA J. PETERSON ASHLEE R. WILLIS

FOUNDER AND ATTORNEY AT CRENSHAW CEO, MICHIGAN PETERSON PREMIER EVENTS AND ASSOCIATES It isaimportant As business owner, to shopwe’ve and support learned locally to home for theinholiday on the season best ways because to be productive supporting and cost locally stimulates efficient.economic COVID-19growth has forced in your us to look at Spending community. things a little on small differently businesses and experiment keeps themwith in business, new methods especially of operating. during We holidays. It the have learned also thatencourages we can do a you lotto more learn remotely more about than your wecommunity ever realized. and Some your clients local have really enjoyed merchants. Shopping this, locally as it gives allowsthem you to moreunique find options and to meet unusual online gifts over thata are lunch made break rather locally from local than artists, drive toetc. the office. who small This is particularly businesses are true supporting with families that seeing your family a bigger and friends importance would enjoy. in getting their estates in order, especially for seniors who are homebound or in nursing homes.

business / PERSPECTIVE

NOTHING STOPS THE POP A Q&A WITH CHAD JORDAN, OWNER OF CRAVINGS GOURMET POPCORN BY KYLE DOWLING

Q& A

Chad Jordan, the owner of Cravings Gourmet Popcorn in Old Town Lansing, sat down to explain some of the changes he’s seen at his business this year. How has Cravings changed during the pandemic? Now we do significantly more business online. Whether it is customers ordering to have it shipped or curbside pickup, that part of it has changed quite a bit. We have less people coming through the door, but that lack of foot traffic is kind of made up

by businesses wanting to do special things for their employees because they are all working remotely. So, the business is trying to keep people connected through the of sending of popcorn. How have operations changed at Cravings? We updated our website to be more modern. It was the first time we had done a large-scale redesign since, like, 2012. So, it was really needed. For us, it means constant cleaning and that everybody must wear masks. It’s making sure that we’re taking care of all of the safety things that we have to take care of to control people being sick or not getting sick. Operationally, that is probably the biggest change. Also, just because walk-in traffic is down, we are only opening six days a week now. And we have always been a seven-day-aweek company, always. But right now, we are six days a week, and we do not open till noon. Where before we would open at 10 a.m. Have you had any supply issues? We had some issues getting large amounts of sugar early on, but we have mostly had no trouble.

What is your favorite flavor of popcorn? I am a huge fan of the chocolate drizzle popcorn. I love the chocolate drizzle. I love it with Mackinac Island caramel, which is like a dark molasses sea salt caramel. I love that. How do you come up with some of the flavors? There are so many ways, like my employees have all kinds of great ideas and then customers will come up with ideas. But you know, a lot of the ideas come from food recipes that people are inspired by. Sometimes you look at a snack in a grocery store, look at the ingredients and try to replicate the flavor but without all the preservatives. How often do you come up with a new flavor? Even this year, during the pandemic, we’ve we have created probably a close to a dozen new flavors. One of the ones was super popular. We made a black pepper, Parmesan, white cheddar. It was good. I could not believe how good it was.

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

FUTURE CLASSROOM:

COMMUNITY COLLEGES PROVIDE VALUE DURING PANDEMIC BY ANDY BRENT When the realities of an extended COVID-19 pandemic became clear, colleges, universities and students found themselves at a crossroads. The world of packed football stadiums, robust on-campus gatherings and student life was suspended, and campus communities were left wondering how the fall semester would progress at all. The situation laid bare one question in particular: without on-campus learning and residential life, what are students at four-year colleges and universities really paying for? As four-year colleges and universities struggled to refit into an online model, and appreciated the financial realities of doing so, community colleges have been better able to adapt. Community colleges lack the overhead of residential, four-year schools, and so are able to offer fully accredited, transferrable classes for more than 40 percent less tuition than their four-year counterparts. Community colleges are online learning experts, with small class sizes and instructors who understand the distance learning needs of their students. In addition, community colleges specialize in career training and cater to students who work, even full time.

These existing advantages make community colleges attractive to students at any time, but especially so in the world of COVID-19. According to College Board, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping students navigate college, average tuition for two-year colleges is $3,440 for indistrict students, while in-state students at colleges and universities can expect to pay $9,410. This leaves first and second year students – and those with electives to complete - with a choice between remote two learning options, each offering the same instruction, one of which costs $5,970 more than the alternative. The prospect of enrolling at a university just to sit and learn remotely in a quarantined dorm is an expensive one. Brian Caputo, president of College of DuPage in Illinois, commented, “Why go to a four-year school and sit in a dorm to take something less than full faceto-face courses and pay precipitously more?” At Lansing Community College (LCC), in-district residents can expect to spend $4,300 per year in tuition. In comparison, local four-year options can exceed $14,000 per year for in-state students. Enrollment for spring at LCC is ongoing, online. Late start options for spring will also be available, along with options for transfer and guests students. Beyond the financial needs of traditional college students, community colleges are essential for training workforce professionals, including those who have been furloughed or returning to work based on financial necessity. Those seeking professional certification can typically complete their course of study in less than one year. Furthermore, community colleges typically offer more support for students in terms of technology, troubleshooting, etc., a service invaluable for those returning to the classroom. Locally, LCC offers pathways to high salary careers in technology, health services and sciences that can be completed in less than one year. Academic and technological support is available for all students via the LCC library, and LCC’s Career and Employment services helps students and alumni find work in their field of study using proven industry tactics. Recently, LCC joined the statewide Futures for Frontliners program as a Frontliners Champion. Futures for Frontliners offers Michiganders who worked in essential industries during

the April 1-June 30 period, but do not have a college degree, free tuition to their local community college to pursue an associate degree or a skills certificate on a full-time or parttime basis while they continue to work. Workers without a high school diploma or equivalency will be eligible for services to help them prepare for, and complete, this credential and go on to a community college or job training program. “LCC believes that those who were required to work during the state shutdown this past spring so that the rest of us could stay safe are heroes and deserve our thanks,” Dean of Student Affairs, Ronda Miller said. “Many of the men and women who were out in the community putting their health and lives on the line are students at LCC. Providing these frontline workers in essential industries with access to tuition-free community college to pursue their career and personal dreams is a wonderful way to say, ‘thank you’ – they have truly earned this.” The application period for Futures for Frontliners runs through December 31. Enrollment is available beginning January 2021. COVID-19 has made appreciating value essential again, and there is nothing in education more demonstrably valuable than a solid start with a community college. When the only thing certain is an indeterminate period of financial uncertainty, students should invest in an education that works for them.

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FEATURE

COMING TO A CONSENSUS MEET THE 2020 ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS JUDGES BY MARY GAJDA

The Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Award judges are a key component in making each year’s event a successful one. The judges panel spends countless hours reviewing nominee submissions and discussing how local entrepreneurs are positively impacting our region. The esteemed panel of judges are committed to finding those who play a pivotal role in the growth of Lansing. Here’s a look at the 2020 panel who had to make those weighty decisions.

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FEATURE 30

JEFFREY BENSON

CHRIS BUCK

MICHAEL DEBRI

TOM HAMP

A compassionate and visionary leader, Jeffrey Benson is responsible for overseeing all aspects of CASE Credit Union, ensuring that each part of the organization works together to serve the community and help members achieve financial success. Benson has been president and CEO of CASE Credit Union since 2010. In that time, Benson’s vision for CASE Credit Union has always been to help every member and future member achieve the financial success that they aspire to by offering innovative products and services to individuals who may otherwise not have been given the opportunity at another financial institution. Under Benson’s leadership CASE Credit Union has received numerous regional, state and national awards, including state and national recognition by the Detroit Free Press’ “Top Workplaces” and the Credit Union Journal’s “Best Credit Union to Work For.” Additional awards under Benson’s leadership include the Credit Union National Association’s Technology Council “Excellence in Technology,” the CUNA CFO Council’s “Excellence in Finance,” the Community Development Credit Union Designation, the National Dora Maxwell “Social Responsibility/ Community Development,” the National Alphonse Desjardins Youth Financial Education Award and the BIZKID$ Financial Education Grant.

Chris Buck serves as the senior managing director and chief operating officer for Martin Commercial Properties in East Lansing. Buck spent nearly 25 years serving multiple roles with Enterprise Holdings (Enterprise, Alamo and National Car Rental), including regional vice president for Michigan for nine years. As regional vice president, he earned national accolades for excellence in profit growth, operations, corporate account development, human resources, talent acquisition, accounting and risk management. In 2013, Buck established C.J. Buck Consulting and, at the same time, he began volunteering for the Meridian Township Economic Development Corp., where he served the board chair from 2015 to 2017. In September 2017, Buck was hired as the first economic development director for Meridian Township, where he successfully courted business development projects meant to drive vibrancy in the region. Buck hosts a podcast — Michigan Reimagined — to highlight people and organizations driving passion and economic sustainability throughout Michigan. In his role at Martin Commercial Properties, his mission is to drive new tenants into empty buildings to make Lansing a better place to live. Buck lives in Okemos with his wife, Martha, and two sons, Evan and Phill.

Michael J. Debri is the Lansing community president and midMichigan business banking market manager at Huntington National Bank. Debri has served as the Lansing community president since November 2009 and has held the position as business banking market manager since February 2014. Debri began his banking career in 1997 as a credit analyst, after graduating from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in finance. In 1999, he transitioned into a commercial relationship officer. He has spent his entire career serving existing and developing new commercial banking clients. In 2005, Debri became team lead of investment commercial real estate in the Jackson and Lansing markets at Fifth Third Bank. He joined Huntington Bank, formerly Citizens Bank, in 2007 as the senior commercial relationship officer in Lansing. Some of Debri’s current and past board positions have been held with Lansing Downtown YMCA, Great Lakes Capital Fund Art of Leadership, Junior Achievement, Mid-Michigan Entrepreneur Institute and the Mid-Michigan Alumni Association. Debri has been married to Erin since 2001 and has two sons, Andrew and Bryce.

Tom Hamp is a business transformation and leadership coach with 34 years of experience with companies such as IBM, Kodak and Kyocera. His clients say that he consistently holds them accountable, pushes them to set specific measurable goals, returns their focus to plans that are in place and uncovers the true value drivers of their business. In addition, he coaches teams as well, helping them to understand the fundamentals of working together and how important their culture is. Hamp has expertise and success in a wide range of areas including sales and marketing, pricing, product management, strategic planning, business development, leadership development, human resource management, and public speaking and facilitation. Hamp has dedicated himself to creating a powerful transformational journey for his clients. Of particular passion is the unique aspects of a family business. Hamp has guided many family businesses through difficult decisions and dynamics specific to family members operating a business. Hamp is a certified value builder adviser as well as a C-IQ enhanced skills coach. Hamp is married to his wife, Julie, of 22 years and has partnered with her in raising their four children: Kelsey, Nate, Evan and Derek as well as their dog, Denver. The Hamps attend church Sunday mornings. When Hamp finds himself with spare time, he enjoys playing basketball, golf and cooking.

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JESSICA STARKS

JEFF JACKSON

BO GARCIA

DON McNABB

Jessica Starks is the president of Transworld Business Advisors of Lansing. Transworld Business Advisors is the world leader in the confidential marketing and sales of businesses and franchises. “From business brokerage to mergers and acquisitions, we are the business sale specialists,” said Starks. Starks received her bachelor’s degree from Grand Valley State University in business administration with an emphasis in accounting and finance. Before starting her own business, Starks gained experience at a public accounting firm and sales with a payroll company, followed by 10 years in business banking. Toward the end of her banking career, Starks was financing buyers acquiring businesses. Realizing that there was a need in the market, Starks wanted to help business owners exit their business. She found that baby boomers did not know where to turn when wanting to retire. Although she thought of mostly baby boomers, she realized that other business owners wanted to exit their business as well. They had built something great, reinvested a lot of their money back into the business, and cared about their customers and employees. Starks wanted to give them an outlet to sell what they have worked so hard to create while leaving a legacy. Starks is married to Brad and has two sons, Carter and Grant. You are likely to find them at a football field, basketball court or baseball field.

Jeff Jackson currently serves as the chief lending officer of Michigan State University Federal Credit Union. He joined the credit union in 1997 and has experience leading the business and consumer lending, payment systems, support services, member services, and adjustments teams. As chief lending officer, Jackson guides the consumer and business lending divisions of the credit union, providing financial solutions for members to meet their lending and cash management needs. Beyond his leadership at MSUFCU, Jackson is actively involved in the community. He was recently named to the board of directors for the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis, an independent regional cooperative bank. Jackson currently serves as a board member for the Michigan Credit Union Foundation, Child and Family Charities, and Sparrow Foundation, and he is a member of the CUNA Lending Council. Jackson holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in finance and accounting from the University of Michigan and a Master of Business Administration degree from Michigan State University.

Bo Garcia is dean of the community education and workforce development division at Lansing Community College. He manages corporate training, small-business development, community education, continuing education and extension centers. Formerly, Garcia was executive director of the Business and Community Institute at LCC, where he was charged with creating business and workforce development initiatives between LCC and regional employers. In his previous position as regional director of the Small Business Development Center, Garcia counseled over 2,000 business clients on areas ranging from startup to expansion and crisis management. Garcia also authored “Business Matters” a weekly business column in the Lansing State Journal for over five years, he has been published in Entrepreneur Magazine and numerous other business publications, and presents on various business issues regionally. He has also been adjunct faculty at the Davenport University College of Business Administration. Garcia holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Northwood University, a Master of Public Administration degree from Western Michigan University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Michigan State University. He also has served on several boards including the Community Foundation, Lansing Metro YMCA, the National Council of Continuing Education and Training, and more. Most importantly, Garcia has a daughter, Annie, who he adores and loves to spend time with.

Don McNabb is the CEO, principal scientist and co-founder of Triterra, a Lansing-based consulting firm that specializes in brownfield development, environmental consulting and natural resources management services. McNabb has over 20 years of experience in the industry and is responsible for overseeing implementation of the company’s strategic direction, while continually promoting the firm’s core focus and values. He routinely assists clients with implementation of environmental due diligence and contaminant management strategies while keeping their best interests in mind. McNabb has provided numerous practical, creative and effective solutions for real estate acquisition, brownfield redevelopment and contaminant investigation/ remediation projects throughout Michigan and the Midwest. McNabb has a great appreciation for the Michigan’s capital region and routinely devotes time and resources to help make communities better. He also currently serves on the Lansing Economic Area Partnership’s executive committee, chairs the Eaton Rapids Downtown Development Authority and Mainstreet Program, and is one of the directors for the Eaton Rapids Youth Soccer organization. McNabb is a resident of Eaton Rapids, where he resides with his wife, Erica, and their two children, Torin, and Marissa.

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FEATURE 32

SCOTT NORMAN

DEBBIE PETERSMARK

STEVE PIESKO

Scott Norman is the vice president of business development for Physicians Health Plan. PHP, a division of Sparrow Health System, is an award-winning health plan that provides insurance for thousands of employers and members across mid-Michigan. Norman is responsible for strategic planning, sales, marketing, and product and market development for PHP. He is playing a key role in leading the expansion of PHP into the Medicare market with the introduction of Sparrow Advantage, a new Medicare Advantage product being introduced to the midMichigan area. Norman has over 20 years’ experience in health care insurance both as a health plan executive and as an agent working with employers to help them develop low-cost, effective employee benefit strategies. His most recent experience includes leading the operations and sales for a 4.5-star Medicare Advantage plan with over $1.2 billion in annual revenue that serves over 140,000 members across Michigan. In addition, Norman led the commercial sales team and agent distribution strategy for a health plan with over 7,000 employer clients and 400,000 enrolled members. Norman is a Michigan State University graduate and has been a resident of East Lansing since 1997.

Debbie Petersmark is the vice president and general manager of WILX Media, a Gray Media Group station that operates WILXTV 10 (NBC) in Lansing, along with WILX.com and several cable channels. WILX News 10 is dedicated to providing midMichigan families with local news, producing nearly 40 hours of news every week between WILX and WSYM Fox 47. Petersmark joined the station in 2000, becoming general sales manager in 2014 and vice president and general manager in 2018. Prior to joining WILX, she spent 10 years at the Sparrow Foundation as the manager of the Children’s Miracle Network. She currently serves as a board member for the Michigan Association of Broadcasters, the American Red Cross MidMichigan Chapter and the Sparrow Foundation. Petersmark grew up in an entrepreneurial family, working alongside her grandfather, uncle and father at Holden Reid Clothiers from a young age. At WILX, she has the opportunity to work with local business owners every day. She appreciates and understands the hard work, sacrifice and joy that come with being an entrepreneur and feels privileged to be part of the Entrepreneurial Awards judging panel. A lifelong resident of East Lansing, Petersmark holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Indiana University. She and her husband, Mike, live in East Lansing and have three children, Andy, Megan and Owen.

Steve Piesko joined Maner Costerisan in 1999 and currently serves as the treasurer of the board of directors and chair of the education services niche. Piesko specializes in consulting and strategic business advisory services as well as auditing of closely held businesses, nonprofits and school districts. Being part of the team running a firm of approximately 140 employees gives Piesko the ability to assist small businesses and analyze issues from an owner’s perspective by working closely with them on strategy, succession planning, leadership, software conversions, bonus systems, stock transactions and a variety of other issues to ensure the best outcome and success of the firm’s clients. Piesko graduated from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in accounting and finance. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants and is the past treasurer of the First Tee of Mid-Michigan. Piesko currently lives in Dewitt with his wife, Missy; daughter, Cate; and puppy, Murphy.

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SCHEDULE A WATCH PARTY AND SEE THE JUDGES’ PICKS SATURDAY, NOV. 14 AT 7 P.M. ON WILX.

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who whirls around in a cloud of dust!) We live quite peaceably with most species of our “microbiota.” In fact, many of the bacteria in the mouth, gut, vagina and on the skin profoundly helps us maintain overall health and strengthens our immune systems in countless ways. Furthermore, it’s well documented that exposure to the vast array of microbes that live outdoors helps boost our immunity. If you’re interested in this subject check out the book “Let Them Eat Dirt: How Microbes Can Make Your Child Healthier” by microbiologists B. Brett Finlay and Marie-Claire Arrieta. You will discover why oversterilizing our skin, clothes, dishes and living environments has the potential for significant and long-term health complications such as digestive problems, asthma, allergies, disease susceptibility and more. As for COVID-19, we WILL eventually slay this dragon, as we have so many other lifethreatening bugs. And hopefully our germaphobia will fade away with it. I’m most curious about the lasting impact our germophobic mindset is having on young children, who don’t really

remember what it was like not to wear a mask and stay 6 feet away from our friends and neighbors. At the end of the day, we are social beings — wired for human connection, for love and for belonging. These needs are most often demonstrated through gestures of touch: handshakes, hugs, kisses and handholding. We’re also wired for playing outside, in and amongst nature — and for petting our dogs, cats, bunnies and chickens. So leave your mask in the house and step out for a deep breath of fresh air … and snag a good hug whenever it’s safe to do so. Meanwhile, as we are teaching our children how to be fastidious about avoiding COVID-19 exposure, it might be an opportune time to explain our respect for the plethora of friendly bugs, the ones we can’t live without. 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.” Reach her at Susan@DrSusanMaples.com

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Cleared for Takeoff Written By: Spencer Flynn

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and staff. Between flights, airlines have incorporated a complete cabinfogging procedure to sanitize the entire plane along with a multitude of other sanitization efforts. Also, thanks to airlines removing change fees, you can book with confidence! If you decide it’s not the right time to travel as the date of your trip approaches, don’t fret — you can change your flight schedule free of charge. The travel industry is doing everything we can to keep you safe and healthy as you travel. Once you’re ready to take flight — whether you’re reconnecting with family, revisiting a place you love or experiencing something new — you can travel with confidence that you’ll be safe.

lifestyle KEEPING OUR ELDERS IN MIND

PLACES p.36 KIDS’ CORNER p. 38 STYLE p. 41 FOOD p. 42 NONPROFIT p. 43

Along with the depression and isolation they feel during the holiday season because they have no loved ones nearby, COVID-19 has taken a huge toll on the elderly. There’s no telling where the next few months will take us, so it is especially important to stay in touch. Reach out online, through social media, or by phone or mail. Send care packages and surprises those you care about can look forward to receiving. Don’t forget your elderly neighbors as well; your gesture could mean the world.

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lifestyle / PLACES

THE BUSINESS DISTRICT IN EATON RAPIDS HAS A LONG HISTORY.

ISLAND OASIS EATON RAPIDS OFFERS A GREAT DAYTRIP GETAWAY THE CLOCK CELEBRATING THE 175TH ANNIVERSARY OF EATON RAPIDS WAS DEDICATED JULY 4, 2012.

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PHOTOS AND ARTICLE BY MELIK BROWN

more content at

517MAG.COM

just the facts AN OPERATIONAL PHONE BOOTH IS A RARE SITE THESE DAYS.

THE GRAND RIVER SURROUNDS GRAND ARMY REPUBLIC PARK.

With a picture-postcard downtown, the soothing sounds of gently churning water, and plenty of friendly faces and fantastic dining options, it’s an ideal late fall getaway for a lazy and relaxing sunny weekend afternoon. Take M-99 out of Lansing and you will soon find yourself in the island oasis of historic Eaton Rapids. Sometimes referred to as Michigan’s Island City, the downtown business district is surrounded by the waters of the Grand River. However, Eaton Rapids could have easily been called the “city of bridges.” At one time, Eaton Rapids was home to 14 bridges. Today, the city has six vehicle bridges and three footbridges. Eaton Rapids became a popular health resort when mineral water was discovered in 1869. Advertised to have curative powers, thousands flocked to the city to receive treatment. The city’s

mineral water was bottled and shipped across the nation. In the 1880s, Eaton Rapids was a thriving community. The waterpower furnished by the Grand River ran grist, woolen and lumber mills in the city. The subterranean water tables were of superb mineral quality and gave rise to numerous artisan wells. Because of these wells, Eaton Rapids became known as the “Saratoga of the West” — a reference to a county in the eastern region of New York state also known for its mineral water. There were 16 daily trains that brought health seekers to Eaton Rapids for the magnetic mineral water and bathhouses. Today, Eaton Rapids offers quality living with unique recreation opportunities as well as convenient access to shopping, dining, and entertainment and cultural activities in nearby urban areas.

DID YOU KNOW? FOUNDED IN 1837, EATON RAPIDS IS THE ONLY MUNICIPALITY WITH THAT NAME IN THE WORLD, ACCORDING TO THE CITY’S WEBSITE.

Eaton Rapids is a two-island city, with the downtown district surrounded by the Grand River as well as the adjacent Island Park. The area was originally occupied by members of the Potawatomi tribe, who were forcibly removed from the land as a consequence of the Indian Removal Act adopted by the federal government in 1830. Eaton Rapids was once considered as a site for the state’s Capitol and was also temporarily home to Michigan’s 13th governor, Austin Blair. Compared to the rest of the country, Eaton Rapid’s cost of living is 13.5% lower than the U.S. average. The Davidson Mill supplied 95% of the wool yarn for major league baseball uniforms, as well as high-grade yarns for other applications.

lifestyle / KIDS’ CORNER

THE ART OF THE THANK YOU BY DAWN HADDAD

At this time of year, we focus a little more on what we are thankful for, but do we share the thanks throughout the year? What a year it’s been. Families and friends have gone long periods of time without seeing each other. One way to stay connected during this time is by sending cards and letters through the mail. Take time this month to encourage your child to write a note to a grandparent, teacher or friend — and you can lead by example. Sending thank-you notes after gifts is always encouraged as good etiquette, but sending one just because is sure to bring a smile to someone’s face. Plus, it’s a fun way to practice writing. A great thank you expresses heartfelt gratitude toward a gift or action, explaining why it was so special and appreciated. Teaching this habit while your kids are young will carry over into their college years and adulthood. And they will thank you for that.

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cool pets GOLDFISH Goldfish make good starter pets, especially for families not permitted to own cats or dogs, or those who have allergies to furry friends. Goldfish do best in a tank with a filter, and they are OK to live with a buddy (as long as it is another goldfish) or alone. Although they will be excited to see you at feeding time, be sure not to overfeed. With proper care, they can live a long time.

recipe

ROASTED FALL VEGETABLES THIS COLORFUL DISH GIVES YOUR KIDS AN OPPORTUNITY TO HELP IN THE KITCHEN AND TO TRY SOME NEW VEGGIES. Choose a variety of veggies, enough for a single layer on a large baking sheet â&#x20AC;&#x201D; carrots, turnips, Brussels sprouts, red potatoes, parsnips, onion or shallots, etc. Depending on age, kids can help peel. Preheat oven to 425 F. Cut veggies to similar sizes. In large bowl measure and mix: 1 head of garlic (cut gloves into quarters) 1 package of onion soup mix 1 tablespoon of honey 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon of onion powder 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary (chopped) 1 teaspoon of garlic powder 1 teaspoon of black pepper 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme (chopped) 1 dash cayenne powder Add cut veggies and toss to coat them in the dressing. Place veggies onto a parchment paper-covered baking sheet and bake until desired texture. ENJOY THE SMELLS, THE COLORS AND THE TASTE.

craft idea THANKFUL PIE Serve up a slice of something special with thankful pie. Simple supplies include a paper plate, brass fastener, orange paper and markers or crayons. Cut the orange paper to fit the inside of the paper plate and cut out a piece of the pie, making sure to leave space for the fastener in the middle. Write things you are thankful for on the paper plate and attach the orange paper with the brass fastener. Slowly spin to share your special thanks. Another option would be to cut pictures out of magazines instead of using words.

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lifestyle / KIDS’ CORNER

GIFT BOOK PICKS FOR 2020

JESSICA TROTTER IS A CAPITAL AREA DISTRICT LIBRARIES COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST AND CO-HOST OF THE CADL CAST PODCAST: READER’S ROUNDTABLE EDITION.

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It’s the time of year when people start thinking about gift giving. I’ve been sifting through the stacks to narrow down a few standout titles that might make great gifts for those on your list. For a great Michigan read, check out “Black Bottom Saints” by Alice Randall. Presented in the style of a book of saints, it shares the stories of legendary figures who moved through Detroit’s Black Bottom neighborhood at its height, from the Great Depression through World War II. A timely pick for young readers is “Stamped” by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi. This remix of Kendi’s “Stamped from the Beginning” is a hip look at racism that doesn’t “feel like homework” — one that adults would enjoy too. It’s also a wonderful audiobook read by Reynolds. For nature lovers — and maybe especially for those who have rediscovered nature in response to the pandemic — try “Heartland Habitats: 265 Midwest Nature Walks” by Mary Blocksma. It’s a lovely guide to what to look for on

walks or even in our own backyard, from birds to plants to fungi. A favorite kids’ pick would be anything by author Minh Lê, who, along with an assortment of wonderful artists, has produced a couple of picture books and a juvenile Green Lantern graphic novel for DC just this year. His latest book is “Lift,” gorgeously illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat. It explores the adjustments a little girl must make with a younger sibling — including not always being the one to push the elevator buttons. And for that avid reader with a sense of humor, grab “I Will Judge You by Your Bookshelf” by New York Times illustrator Grant Snider. This lovely exploration of the joys and frustrations of reading has something for everyone, including strips on reading to children, libraries and gift books. For more recommendations, check out our Capital Area District Libraries Staff Picks feature or get personalized help with our BookSleuth P.I. service. Find these under the Books & More tab at cadl.org.

lifestyle / STYLE

SUPPORTING TRENDS AND NEIGHBORS SHOPPING LOCALLY FOR WINTER FASHION BY ERIN HAGEN

Life is crazy these days, and shopping for clothes can be low on the list of priorities. But so many Michigan-based retailers depend on our support. From fuzzy cardigans to extralong fringe and the return of puff sleeves, just because we’re not shopping as much in person right now doesn’t mean designers have stopped creating new trends for the upcoming season. Maybe you are making an appearance at a small holiday event or looking for fashionforward gift ideas. If you aren’t comfortable shopping in person, you can still support local businesses by shopping online. Even some of smaller local retailers have fantastic websites with lots of options and a great online presence to accommodate their shoppers. A great example is Retail Therapy, a women’s clothing store in Old Town Lansing, which offers an upscale collection of

everything from clothes to shoes and sunglasses. Its collection is very well-curated, and you can easily find one-of-a-kind pieces and simple basics to add to your wardrobe. It also has great pictures of the store’s clothes online, which makes shopping online simple and easy. Another great choice located in the heart of our capital is Kositchek’s Menswear. It has a beautiful collection of business and casual clothes for all occasions. Those are just examples. A simple web search will show you so many local retailers you can visit online. Remember to shop local and support these retailers. We need them here, and they need us now. Like Miuccia Prada once said, “What you wear is how you present yourself to the world, especially today when human contacts go so fast. Fashion is instant language.”

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lifestyle / FOOD

best of

TURKEY TIPS! IN YOUR QUEST FOR THE PERFECT BIRD, YOU MAY BE FORGETTING A FEW IMPORTANT TIPS. BY MARY GAJDA

CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE TURKEY Whether you’re in it for the long haul and planning on feeding a large crew or just want a simple small bird to stick with tradition, size matters when choosing your Thanksgiving bird. The general rule of thumb is planning on about 1 pound per person. That makes sure everyone has plenty to eat, and it may even leave you with some leftovers for turkey pot pie or hot turkey sandwiches.

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TO BASTE IS A WASTE

RELAX BEFORE YOU CARVE

Even the Butterball turkey experts say basting is a bit of a waste of your valuable time. In fact, the baste usually ends up in the bottom of your pan. Get under the bird’s skin with some herb-seasoned butter, making sure to spread the mixture evenly. Buttering or oiling the skin isn’t necessary for crispy skin, but you could try clarified butter for a bit of flavor.

During all that cooking time, the heat draws the juices into the center of the turkey. When you take it out of the oven, let it rest for a good 20 minutes. You’ll end up with slices that are moist because you’ve allowed time for the juices to redistribute. As much as you’ll be ready to eat by the time the turkey timer pops, that could make a huge difference in taste.

STAND UP AND BE COUNTED

We’d love your feedback. Make sure to visit the polls on our Facebook page and give your input. Your comments, advice and answers could make it into a future column. Here’s wishing you a healthy and happy Thanksgiving and a joyful holiday season.

lifestyle / JACK DAVIS LEGACY NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

DRIVING CHANGE

DAVIES PROJECT NEEDS VOLUNTEER DRIVERS, COMMUNITY SUPPORT

BY MARY GAJDA

Imagine having a sick child who needs to get to appointments one, two or more times a week — maybe even a few times a day. Now imagine you don’t have reliable transportation. Sure, you can take a bus; however, that can take hours when you add up the logistics of waiting for a bus, the ride and getting into your appointment with a child, and in some cases medical gear, in tow. Picture trying to navigate that while keeping your job, taking care of other members of the household and juggling everything with other everyday stresses of life. That’s where the Davies Project comes in, providing reliable transportation for seriously ill children and pregnant women to essential health care appointments as well as other services. According to Dr. Pam Riley Miklavcic, executive director and founder of the Davies Project in Lansing, lack of transportation significantly affects access to health care and disproportionately affects those on the low end of the socioeconomic spectrum. About 70% of the children who use Lansing-area specialty clinics are on Medicaid and miss roughly 60% of their medical appointments. At the onset of COVID-19, the Davies Project adjusted to ensure that transportation to essential appointments continued and instituted new health screening and safety procedures. But even with those adjustments came volunteer changes that need to be addressed with help from the community.

“With many volunteer drivers over 50 and at greater risk for severe illness from COVID-19, many of the project’s volunteer drivers paused their driving families and worked for other areas of the Davies Project,” said Miklavcic. That included making coronavirus buddy calls, working to connect families in need with resources or delivering food in partnership with the Lansing School District. Ride requests have picked up, and volunteer drivers are needed to give rides to essential appointments for children in fragile health and for pregnant women to prenatal appointments. “Volunteers should be at least 21; have no immunity, heart or lung problems; and do not care for or live with someone who does,” said Miklavcic. “They should also be able to interact compassionately and empathically with all Davies Project families as well as being reliable to drive in all-weather conditions.” Those interested in making a difference in their communities should visit thedaviesproject.org/become-a-volunteer-driver/ to inquire about volunteering. The Davies Project has also seen a drop in financial support and is exploring ways to bolster its fundraising capacity. Community members who would like to offer financial support can visit thedaviesproject.org. With your help, the Davies Project can continue driving change.

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FEATURE

PEANUT SHOP REMAINS A BELOVED DOWNTOWN MAINSTAY BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY

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Tammy Melser works for peanuts — and, to the delight of those in downtown Lansing, that suits her just fine. As the face of the Peanut Shop at 117 S. Washington Square, Melser is a figure as beloved by her patrons as the establishment itself. Melser owns the iconic store with her sister, Glenda Osterhouse, although her sister has stepped away from the day-to-day operations of the business. “We took ownership, buying from my mom and dad, in ’95, but we both had worked here since we were in school,” Melser said. “My dad was, I believe, 72 when he decided, ‘OK, I’ve got to get out of here.’ So, it was just kind of natural for us to take it over because it was what we knew. It was something we both wanted to continue and carry on.” The store not only carries forward a family tradition for Melser but it also has a storied history in the city’s past. It initially opened in early 1937 as a retail storefront for the Planters Nut and Chocolate Co., the parent company of the famed Mr. Peanut mascot.

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“My dad came here and worked for Planters in 1948. Then in 1960, when Planters was getting out of the retail business, they offered the stores to managers,” Melser said. “If the managers didn’t want them or could not purchase them, they were closed down. So my mom and dad bought the store in 1960.” Four decades later, the Peanut Shop is still providing Lansing with tasty treats and snacks that come from around the country and the world. Cashews are imported from India and Brazil. Almonds and walnuts come from the West Coast. Peanuts are harvested from the South. “About 95% of the nuts we roast inhouse every day. But anything that is spiced or sweetened, we don’t do those,” Melser said. “We get stock in weekly so we can keep everything nice and fresh.” However, she noted that she couldn’t even guesstimate how many pounds are roasted each day.

MELSER APPRECIATES THE CUSTOMERS WHO HAVE EXPRESSED CONCERN ABOUT HER BUSINESS DURING THE PANDEMIC AND ARE STOPPING IN TO MAKE PURCHASES.

“We’re cooking all day,” Melser said. “It holds about 8 pounds of nuts at one time, and it’s going from about 9:30 until 5 o’clock when we clean it out for the next day. We have the deep fryer where most of the product is cooked, but we also have a 25-pound dry roaster where we roast peanuts in the shell.” The bestsellers have shifted over the years. Today, people favor redskin peanuts, almonds and cashews. When her dad owned the store, roasted peanuts in the shell were the hit, with the store churning out about 50 pounds a day.

FEATURE

“Now we do 10 to 15 pounds a day,” Melser said. “People are into the healthier and more expensive nuts today than they were years ago.” As with all businesses, the coronavirus pandemic has taken a toll. Melser closed the store for six weeks to learn what she could do to keep employees and customers safe. When it reopened in May with curbside pickup, the Peanut Shop was only seeing 23-25% of its usual sales. As restrictions eased, Melser began letting two customers inside the store at a time, then six. “We stuck with it, and each month we’ve gotten a little better,” she said.” We have

some great customers who have really pushed us on social media. We’ve had some huge record days because of that. Right now we’re running at about 90%, which I am very happy with. My goal is to be open, give my guys a paycheck, pay the bills and get on the other side of this.” It’s been a difficult and scary time, which is something Melser said she discussed with friend Autumn Weston, the fourth-generation owner of the neighboring Weston’s Kewpee Sandwich Shop. “We both were scared because you don’t want to see a business that’s been around this

long fail under your watch,” Melser said. “I think she and I have a little extra pressure on us to keep things afloat. I think we’ll do it because we both have great customers, but we’re realistic. I don’t care if I don’t make any more money this year as long as I can keep the business afloat. I can live the rest of the year with what I’ve got if I have to. Other than that, it’s made me kind of proud because there have been so many people who come in and tell us, ‘The city wouldn’t be the same without you guys.’ That means a lot to us.” In a nutshell, it’s unlikely the Peanut Shop is going away anytime soon.

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play REASONS TO PLAY p.54 OUT & ABOUT p.56

THE BEST LAID PLANS 2020 has been a year unlike any other. We’re often reminded of the expression, “The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry.” While your traditions may not look the same this year, and things could change right up until you serve that ham or turkey, it is important to remember that traditions can evolve. Use the opportunity to make new traditions with those closest to you. Try new recipes, let the kids become more involved. It is possible to get some good memories out of 2020.

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play / REASONS TO PLAY

Happy Holidays! November ushers in a little snow and a lot of family time as we embrace the beginning of the holiday season. It’s obvious COVID-19 has affected events in the region, but there is still plenty to do at a safe social distance. Enjoy all the hot chocolate, gooey treats and great memories that the holidays can bring.

SILVER BELLS IN THE CITY — HOME EDITION

Silver Bells Home Edition, presented by the Lansing Board of Water & Light, will air on FOX 47 from 6-8 p.m. Nov. 20. This special telecast is a spinoff of Silver Bells in the City and will feature elements of the traditional event like the state Christmas tree lighting, family holiday singalongs, celebrity shoutouts, diverse holiday offerings and more.

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.

2020 Michigan Made | Holiday Art Exhibition Visit the Lansing Art Gallery, 1100 Washington Square in Lansing, from Nov. 5 to Dec. 23 and purchase artworks that range from fine art to small gifts, including jewelry, paintings, pottery, metal work, leather goods, paper products, glass works, woodworking and more. For information, visit Lansingartgallery. org. 2020 Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards Tune in to WILX-TV 10 at 7 p.m. Nov. 14 to watch the 2020 Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards, hosted by

517 | 11.20

Tiffany Dowling, owner of M3 Group and publisher of 517 Magazine. Eight awards will be given, including Business of the Year. For information, visit 517mag.com. 10th Annual Silver Bells 5K Choose to run or walk the 3-mile race Nov. 21 at home virtually, or you can do it in person in downtown Lansing with open timing. Prizes are given to the best holiday costumes. Register at runsignup. com/silverbells. Wonderland of Lights 2020 Potter Park Zoo has thousands of lights to create extraordinary

holiday light displays at the 26th annual Wonderland of Lights. The attraction is open from 5-8 p.m. Fridays through Sundays from Nov. 21 to Dec. 27. It’s fun for the whole family. For information, visit potterparkzoo.org/ event/wonderland-oflights-2020/. Lansing Turkey Trot This Thanksgiving morning tradition can be completed in person or virtually Nov. 26. The 5K run/ walk has an open/ flexible start line at 500 Grand Ave. in Lansing. For information, visit runsignup.com/ Race/MI/Lansing/ LansingTurkeyTrot.

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

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play / OUT & ABOUT

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WRAP UP

PLAN OF ATTACK Approaching the Thanksgiving table with an eye on waist management

FILL UP ON VEGGIES FIRST One of the most important tricks for staying below your Thanksgiving meal’s calorie allowance while still feeling full is to put plenty of low-calorie, nutritious vegetables on your plate. Fill up on healthy cooked veggies before digging into anything else on the table. It will help keep your appetite at bay and prevent you from overeating more calorie-rich options down the line. One-half cup of vegetables, about the size of a rounded handful, counts as a serving. Calorie counts vary depending on the vegetable, with about 30 calories in one serving of steamed broccoli or cooked carrots and approximately 15 calories in one serving size of boiled cauliflower, though additions such as butter or cheese raise the calorie count.

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TURKEY A serving of turkey is 3 ounces, or about the size of a full deck of playing cards. One serving of the white meat part of a turkey has about 132 calories, while dark turkey meat packs about 145 calories, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. To nudge the calories downward, eat a serving of white meat without the skin. That brings the count to only 119 calories. GRAVY A serving of gooey gravy is about one-quarter of a cup, or the size of a golf ball. Each serving has from 30 to 50 calories. POTATOES A single serving of potatoes is a quarter-cup, or about the size of a tennis ball cut in half and contains approximately

145 calories. A healthier option would be cooked cauliflower with herbs or spices, such as pepper or chives, added for flavor. That would only add up to 15 calories a serving. Instead of pouring on the butter, add flavor to your potatoes or cooked vegetables by mixing in chicken broth, herbs or roasted garlic. STUFFING One serving of stuffing is a halfcup, or the equivalent of an ice-cream scoop. Each helping contains about 180 calories. To bring down the calorie content, make homemade stuffing and substitute chopped vegetables — such as onions, squash, eggplants, carrots and celery — for some of the bread. If want to replace the bread in your healthy stuffing you can replace it with wild rice.

SALAD Salad is one of the healthier side options at the Thanksgiving table. It is a much better idea to go back for seconds of salad than cornbread or stuffing. But watch out for what you put on top of it. One serving of salad can have between 100 and 150 calories, depending on the dressing. Each serving is one cup and is about the size of a baseball. PIE A single serving is about oneeighth of a 9-inch pie, which is about the size of a standard lightbulb. One serving of pumpkin pie contains about 323 calories, and apple pie contains approximately 300 calories. The unhealthiest option is pecan pie, which packs 456 calories.

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