CAWLM May 2019

I

T

A

L

A

R

E

A

E FR

P

W D-

A

AR AW

C

IN

N

G

IC BL PU

E

IN

IO AT N

M

A

G

A

Z

I

N

E

M AY 2019

TEAM BUILDING: THE CRUCIAL GLUE A GARDEN OF HOPE DIY SPRING FLOWER POTS

NatrenahBlackstock NOT ALL SUPERHEROES WEAR CAPES

WHAT’S HAPPENING BEHIND THIS WALL?

If you’ve visited us recently, you may have noticed a few new walls. We’re working on something BIG here at the , to be unveiled Fall 2019. Never fear! Our award-winning team is still here 24/7 along with adaptive spaces for work, collaboration, and celebration.

Connect with us at to book your next gathering and keep an eye out for updates on our progress!

WHERE BUSINESS GETS DONE #LOVELANSING, MICHIGAN

MAC K I N AW C I T Y T R AV E R S E C I T Y GRAND RAPIDS C H I C AG O DENVER

Award-Winning Experts*

*Voted Best Large CVB in Michigan Two Years Running

INDIANAPOLIS

DETROIT CLEVELAND 90 F O RT WAY N E CO LUM B U S C I N C I N N AT I 300

Central Location Boosts Attendance

B O S TO N

N E W YO R K

WA S H I N G TO N D. C .

Access to Thought Leaders at Michigan State University

MAY COVER

IN THIS ISSUE

14 A Garden of Hope

4

From the Publisher

11 Financial Facts

15 Teambuilding: The Crucial Glue

5

Good News

12 Local Woman

6

Business Profile

24 Fashion

8

From the Hart

25 Recipe

16 Camp Guide 20 Cover: Natrenah Blackstock 26 DIY Spring Flower Pots

9 Feature

28 Events

10 Reflections

30 My Community

On the cover: Natrenah Blackstock cover photography by Mary Gajda Correction: Last month’s Gourmet Popcorn "Bunny Bait" recipe should have included 16-ounce package vanilla candy coating.

C

M

A

P

A

I

T

G

A

A

L

A

Z

R

I

E

N

A

E

221 W Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933

Offering personalized general orthopedic services; specializing in joint replacements, sports medicine, fracture care, and hand and back pain.

Phone: (517) 203-0123 | Email: info@cawlm.com CAWLM.COM

ISSUE V • VOLUME XII PUBLISHER TIFFANY DOWLING EDITOR-IN-CHIEF KELLY MAZURKIEWICZ MANAGING EDITOR MARY GAJDA SALES MANAGER JENNIFER HODGES MEDIA SPECIALIST CAREY JARVIS

Derek Sanders, ATC, LAT, ITAT

William Truluck, DO

John Flood, DO

Karl Dunn, DPM

ACCOUNT MANAGERS MEGAN FLEMING LIZ RENO-HAYES ZACK KRIEGER ADAM SMITH COMMUNICATION SPECIALISTS ADAM LANSDELL ALICIA FINCH CHRISTOPHER NAGY RICH ADAMS ART DIRECTOR MARK WARNER PUBLICATION DESIGNER JEANETTE WUMMEL GRAPHIC DESIGNERS CHELSEY FREEDMAN CODY FELL QUAN OLLIE WEB MANAGER JEANETTE WUMMEL EVENT CALENDAR MANAGER KYLE DOWLING CONTRIBUTORS ADAM LANSDELL ALICIA FINCH CATHY BLATNIK CHRISTOPHER NAGY DEIDRE DAVIS

JEANETTE WUMMEL KERRY HART KYLE DOWLING SUSAN COMBS TEECE ARONIN

ADVERTISING INFORMATION (517) 203-0123 Interested in hosting a distribution location?

Give us a call at (517) 203-0123 or email at info@cawlm.com.

group

Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle is published monthly

by M3 Group, Lansing, Michigan All rights reserved. © 2018 M3 Group

Nicholas Doman, D.O.

Jeremy Pascotto, D.O.

The Eaton Regional Orthopedics team reflects the perfect balance of compassion and competency in providing high-quality care you can always count on. They will work with you to create an individualized care plan because they recognize every patient is unique.

Call (517) 543-7976 to learn why our high-caliber physicians, along with trusted relationships and strong capabilities, bring us together in health. hgbhealth.com/EatonRegionalOrthopedics

No part of this magazine may be reproduced whole or in part without the express written consent of the publisher.

MAY 2019

3

FROM THE PUBLISHER

The Future of Parenting is...

PRETT Y IMPRESSIVE Parenting is not for the weak of heart. In fact, it’s a challenging gig. Boomers and Gen Xers are responsible for raising millennials. Those millennials have changed a lot about how society works. In fact, there are seminars and full websites that help us understand them. A quarter of the human beings in our world are those born between 1977 and 2000. This thoughtful generation would rather buy from companies that are willing to give back and will even pay a little more, they adopt technology early, and they can’t remember a time when they didn’t have 200-plus Facebook friends.

And, guess what? Those millennials are having children of their own. Based on the recent statistics, over 50% have had children and are co-parenting in a shared experience no matter what the situation. I love to observe cycles in behavior. It’s fascinating to think about how we raised our children: overscheduled, helicoptered and overpraised.

Well, as it turns out, they are doing things differently.

Our kids who are having kids are pretty great parents.

They are not helicoptering like we did. I guess it’s considered “drone” parenting now, which means they

are watching the kids from a bigger distance and not scheduling every minute of their time. And millennials are boomeranging back to resemble baby boomers more closely with the highest rate of stay-at-home parents at over 23% (boomers were just 22% and Gen Xers at 16%).

Today’s parent has a lot to worry about. I’m sure every generation thought they had plenty to consider, but parents of young children say they are most concerned about the environment they are leaving their kids and healthy food options on the dinner table. Obviously, as kids get older, there are drug and opioid epidemic considerations that parents must educate kids against.

This may be easier because research is showing that millennial parents are spending more time with their kids than you and I did.

I’m a huge fan of travel and it appears that many millennials have the tendency. They are raising children who are traveling globally more than any other generation before. Research shows this helps them become more open-minded. All-in-all, the generation we raised who has taken its share of flack

CONVENIENT

TOOLS. SUPERIOR

SERVICE. Its easier than ever to manage your finances with our easy to use online and mobile banking tools.

Our service. Your success. casecu.org

4 MAY 2019

• Federally Insured by NCUA

Equal Opportunity Lender

for workplace upheaval is making a positive mark where it really counts – raising children.

There are no manuals when it comes to leading kids into the future, and it is a difficult job that certainly doesn’t end when the child turns 18 and potentially moves out (a misnomer I believed when I had kids).

My current belief is that it never is a one-size-fits-all situation for moms and families. You have very little control over outside factors that influence children and their paths. When parents leave the primary spot of focus, you can only hope that you have raised strong, independent and thoughtful kids. Thanks to all the moms who are working hard to balance the roles in her life.

Happy Mother’s Day!■

Tiffany Dowling | Publisher

GOOD NEWS C

M

A

P

A

I

G

T

A

A

L

A

Z

I

R

E

N

A

E

WE’D LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU! Do you have a business or personal milestone announcement relevant to women of Clinton, Eaton and Ingham counties?

Please submit it to info@cawlm.com by the first of the month prior to the issue you wish it to be printed in. CAWLM reserves the right to edit all submissions for style, grammar and length. We look forward to sharing your good news!

ORIGAMI’S EVENING OF REFLECTIONS The Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center welcomed a crowd of over 200 people for its Annual “An Evening of Reflections” event on March 14. The inspirational event provides brain injury survivors and caregivers a platform to share their recovery journeys. This year’s theme was the process of returning to life after a brain injury through hard work, determination, patience and the support of those we love. ■

Dr. Houk and staff are welcomed by representatives from the Holt Business Alliance Photo credit: John Hayhoe

WILLOUGHBY VETERINARY HOSPITAL RIBBON CUTTING The Holt Business Alliance was on hand recently to welcome the new owner of Willoughby Veterinary Hospital in Holt. Formerly known as the Willoughby Pet Clinic, the Veterinary Hospital is now owned by Dr. Amanda Houk. Houk is a former Michigan State University (MSU) graduate with an extensive background in emergency medicine, surgery and internal medicine cases. ■

For Over 65 Years

Educate.

Providing Legal Strategies and Solutions for the Success of Businesses and Individuals.

Eastwood Office: 2400 Lake Lansing Rd. Suite E Lansing, MI 48912 (517) 485-0400

Grand Rapids Office: 100 Grandville Ave., SW Suite. 202 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (517) 482-2400

Left to right, back row: Juliane, Hillary, Mackenzie, Linda, Ron, Scott , Laura and Dr. Tina. Left to right, front row: Colin, Amy and April.

Downtown Office: 124 W. Allegan St. Suite 700 Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 482-2400

Scholarships through the LCC Foundation provide opportunities that grow talent and build skills that ELEVATE our community.

DONATE today.

Donate.

Donations to the LCC Foundation EDUCATE students, providing the talent and skills that ELEVATE our community.

Donate. Educate. Elevate lcc.edu/elevate

MAY 2019

5

BUSINESS PROFILE

BY ADAM LANSDELL

tables, coffee tables, vanities – essentially whatever the customer asked for, we will at least try to give them what they're looking for,” explained Patterson.

“Most project requests are for their home or office, but we also do a lot of commercial property projects and wholesale. We’ve had the chance to help build for restaurants and things like that.”

EACH PIECE TELLS A STORY H OW M I C H I GA N B A R N WO O D & S A LVAG E L LC . I S H E L P I N G H E R I TAG E L I V E O N

Kendra Patterson, owner of Michigan Barnwood & Salvage, LCC., sees these familiar rural structures as much more than a red facade crafted to shelter the excess equipment of farmers and their livestock.

Instead, each structure represents a piece of Americana that’s fading before our very eyes. One that must be cherished. One that must live on.

“A lot of people simply don’t know what to do with old, decaying barns. Many people have burned theirs to the ground or bury them,” said Patterson. “And, over time, there are becoming fewer and fewer of them. It’s going to be at some point in our lives that we don’t see the structures standing anymore. I think it’s important for people to realize that farmers are a huge part of our history.”

Patterson operates her business out of a larger warehouse space with her husband, Trevor, in downtown Mason. The company operates as both a lumberyard for customers seeking one-of-a-kind salvaged barn materials for their custom décor projects, as well as a storefront that fosters growth for local artisans. The two concepts merge to create a unique experience that draws attention from patrons throughout Michigan and beyond.

Unsurprisingly, the Midwest is home to many barns with its deeply rooted tradition of agriculture and generational farmers. This makes it an ideal environment for the company to source regional materials. Barns in the Midwest are unique, distraught and weathered from years of exposure.

And with that uniqueness comes a sense of heritage,

6 MAY 2019

tradition and importance. Something that Patterson believes resonates with people on a deeper level and that you can’t find anywhere else.

“People love to see a piece and instantly know that it has history. My heart goes back to my love of barns and reclaimed things,” said Patterson. “Things that are unique and weathered. When people see a piece of wood from our shop, they see something with character and love the idea of reusing it.”

Not only does Michigan Barnwood & Salvage provide materials, it also assists in educating barn owners about the salvaging process and provides salvage services in exchange for the materials.

The company works with expert demolition teams to ensure that each piece of barn salvaged has a chance of being rebirthed.

Aside from helping customers acquire the perfect pieces to craft their personal projects, the company also works with a custom builder to create one-ofa-kind by design furniture pieces. From tables and bar tops to sliding doors and shiplap, the expert craftsmen have helped customers bring character, tradition and beauty into many regional homes and businesses.

“We offer custom building and will create just about anything for customers. We build dining room

The custom products and materials for sale aren’t the only way that Patterson aims to bring a piece of Michigan into the lives of her customers. She utilizes the store’s entry point as a showcase for regional artisans – further extending a commitment to only supply and sell Michigan-made products. Here, no two artisans or products are alike – each bringing something wholly unique to the overarching experience.

“Everything they provide us must be made in Michigan. And we really pride ourselves in supporting the local economy and our fellow local businesses,” said Patterson. “Collectively, there's about 65 businesses in total that we work with. We partner with each in order to really complete the full Michigan barn experience between the showroom, the lumberyard and the custom furniture building.”

Patterson and her vendors also collaborate often by providing educational workshops and fun outings for patrons who want to learn more about a specific trade or how to craft a specific item. These workshops, in addition to participation in regional downtown Mason celebrations, pose perfect opportunities for the company and its vendors to connect with the region.

To learn more about Michigan Barnwood & Salvage LLC., visit facebook.com/michiganbarnwood/ ■

Adam Lansdell is currently the communications team lead at M3 Group of Lansing. A Grand Valley State University alumnus with passion for all things creative it comes as no surprise that he’s also a musician, gamer, movie buff and graphic designer.

MAY 2019

7

FROM THE HART

BY KERRY HART

Research shows the typical person only listens for about 17 seconds before interjecting their own ideas.

Focus on providing your undivided attention to your partner rather than considering your own opinions while he or she is speaking.

TAKE ACTION

QU A L I T Y TI M E UNDERSTANDING THE LOVE LANGUAGES It is important to note that what makes one person feel loved emotionally is not always the same as what makes someone else feel loved emotionally. While the time you spend with your partner will not always be considered quality time, if that is your partner’s love language, you will want to designate specific times to spend as “quality time.” Planned togetherness requires effort but will add positivity to your relationship regardless of an individual’s love language of choice.

WHAT IS IT? Quality time means giving someone your undivided attention. Doing something your partner enjoys doing and enjoying it wholeheartedly. It is not enough to be in the same room with someone. You need to be participating in an activity together, which can make all the difference. All too often couples will think because they are in proximity to one another, it counts as quality time. Texting or scrolling through your

phone while your partner is talking to you does not count as quality time. Whatever your chosen activity, be sure to be focused on your partner and the time you are spending together.

LEARN TO COMMUNICATE EFFECTIVELY Enjoy what author and associate pastor Gary Chapman refers to as “quality conversation,” which requires sharing thoughts, feelings and desires in a friendly context. Focus on making eye contact with your partner to ensure that he or she knows your undivided attention is given. This is not a time to multitask - if you have another project to handle, be sure to put it to the side while you enjoy quality conversation with your partner. Listen for feelings and ask yourself what emotion your partner is trying to express to you in his or her communication. Observe body language for further hints as to how your partner is feeling. Make an effort to focus on not interrupting your partner.

IN HOME SERVICES: Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home services is an exceptional program of caring and care where seniors who want to help are matched with seniors who are looking for affordable help.

• Cooking • Companionship • Shopping • Handyman services

• Yard work • Respite care • Escort to appointments • And More!

In-Home Service for SENIORS by SENIORS Seniors Helping Seniors® - We change people’s lives™

8 MAY 2019

Make a list of things your partner likes to do then find the time to actually do them. Give yourself a goal of participating in one item on the list per week, then give yourself two months before you check back in with yourself to see if you actually achieved your goal. Explore quality activities where the goal is being together. A quality activity is something that at least one of you wants to do that the other is willing to do, and it provides the both of you the opportunity to be together. Ask yourself when you feel the most loved, then ask your partner the same question. Practice quality conversation as you share your ideas and make an effort to participate in those actions often. If you were unable to achieve your goal, you will need to examine why. Why did you make the choice to not make the time for your partner relationship? Long days and busy schedules can often make a relationship slide down the list of priorities. Make sure your relationship thrives as your partner feels your love through expression of the love languages. ■ Kerry Hart is a couple and family therapist with a private practice in East Lansing.

The only thing she loves more than saving relationships, is writing about them. See more of her musings at kerryhartcounseling.com.

“The clear difference is that you care very deeply about your work and the people you are caring for.”

Phone: 517-332-9953 2500 Kerry Street, Suite 102 Lansing, MI 48912 www.SeniorsHelpingSeniors.com

FEATURE

MORE THAN SKIN DEEP BEAUTY STANDARDS POSE ADDITIONAL CHALLENGES FOR WOMEN OF COLOR

Beauty lies in the eye of the beholder – the idea that beauty cannot be judged objectively is a sentiment with origins that can be traced back to everyone from Confucius to the ancient Greeks.

Yet in the modern world, with so much societal emphasis placed on the physical ideal – particularly the feminine beauty ideal – it can be difficult to avoid the constant bombardment of pressure to fit into a preconceived standard of physical conformity.

For women of color, however, that pressure can be compounded even further because so much of today’s standards of physical beauty stem from a Eurocentric definition.

“

The beauty from within is where real power and confidence comes from. Inside beauty radiates to the outside and needs no external cosmetic assistance but it never hurts to have an amazing lipstick or lip gloss to highlight your inner beauty! In other words, before you paint on your canvas, spend time creating the best you from the inside out.

”

Additionally, beauty products have come a long way as it relates to women of color. Fortunately, in years past, there were companies such as Flori Roberts, Fashion Fair and Iman who "got it" and understood the needs of women of color as well as the financial buying power of brown women.

Photo by Michael J Photography

Fonda Brewer - Lansing

“One of the bravest things you can be is yourself in a world hell-bent on shrouding one's own unique light,” said East Lansing resident Shaun Cauley. “I cannot express to you how deeply liberating it was to stop surrendering to the pressures to hide my tightly coiled, gravity-defying, magical halo of a crown from the world in my marketing materials. Many clients have loved and embraced me for it.”

The beauty from within is where real power and confidence comes from, according to Lansing resident Fonda Brewer.

“Inside beauty radiates to the outside and needs no external cosmetic assistance, but it never hurts to have an amazing lipstick or lip gloss to highlight your inner beauty,” she said. “In other words, before you paint on your canvas, spend time creating the best you from the inside out.”

Not only can society’s standards of beauty |be unrealistic and unobtainable, they also might be unhealthy.

A 2017 article published in Popular Science noted that, on average, a white American woman exposes herself to 168 personal care chemicals every day; however, the exposure levels for women of color are even higher.

Part of that is due to the type of products specifically marketed to women of color such as skin-lightening creams and hair relaxers or straighteners.

A study published by the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology issued a call to action to the OB-GYN community to prevent toxic environmental chemical exposures from beauty products and acknowledge their threats to healthy human reproduction.

“Beauty products can include reproductive and developmental toxicants such as phthalates and heavy metals; however, disclosure requirements are limited and inconsistent,” the study states in its introduction. “Compared with white women, women of color have higher levels of beauty product-related environmental chemicals in their bodies, independent of socioeconomic status. Even small exposures to toxic chemicals during critical periods of development (such as pregnancy) can trigger adverse health consequences (such as impacts on fertility and pregnancy, neurodevelopment, and cancer).”

Adding to the dilemma is that women of color have historically been underserved when it comes to providing a wider range of beauty options. However, a December article in the New York Times noted that is starting to change, with skin care companies as well as independent brands stepping forward to open more access to products that specifically address the needs of women of color.

“

Photo by Clarissa Salman

BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY

One of the bravest things you can be; is yourself, in a world hell bent on shrouding one's own unique light. I cannot express to you how deeply liberating it was to STOP surrendering to the pressures to hide my tightly coiled, gravity defying, magical halo of a crown from the world in my marketing materials.… many clients have loved and embraced me for it.

Shaun Cauley – East Lansing

”

-“The truth is that a woman of color faces different concerns and at different times — hyperpigmentation being one of them,” Jeanine Downie, a dermatologist in Montclair, New Jersey, told the newspaper. “Any white person over the age of 42, they start with fine lines and wrinkles. Any black person over the age of 42, they start with pigmentation issues. Asians and Latinas, it depends on their skin tone, but they are often somewhere in between.”

One such effort that stepped up to meet needs starting last year was The Brown Beauty Co-op, a collaborative beauty boutique in Washington, D.C. The boutique opened because owners Kimberly Smith and Amaya Smith wanted to provide an experience they felt was lacking in mainstream beauty retailers.

“Women of color are the biggest spenders on beauty, but often our needs aren’t at the forefront of the beauty industry,” they said in a statement to CAWLM. “From makeup to hair care, there continues to be a predominant culture that marginalizes the beauty of women of color. That’s reflected in a lack of foundation shades and lack of quality products for our hair being sold in mainstream retailers. One-size-fits-all beauty standards mean that we’re reluctantly spending our dollars in stores that don’t appreciate all our beauty.

Our goal with The Brown Beauty Co-op is to center women of color to create a welcoming experience with products and ambiance made for us.” ■ Christopher Nagy is a graduate of Eastern Michigan University and has more than 20 years of experience in journalism. He rarely misses a Motor City Comic Con or Michigan Renaissance Festival.

MAY 2019

9

HowIWant My Kids TO PAMPER ME THIS

MOTHER’S DAY

BY TEECE ARONIN

Mother’s Day is on the way. It’s on May 12 as a matter of fact, and it’s astounding to read how much we Americans spend on it. According to MuchNeeded. com, it’s somewhere around $20 billion annually. I don’t know about you, but this year I don’t want my kids spending more than $10 billion on me - each. I’m thinking weekly spa visits for the rest of my life, daily deliveries of Belgian chocolates, red roses, and fruit bouquets, and maybe a trip to Maui with my current

crush, Blake Shelton. But they don’t have to buy me any of his CDs since I’m not into country music. I’m just into Blake.

According to a 2018 article at USAToday.com, 86 percent of Americans were planning to celebrate Mother’s Day last year with an average budget of $180.

The article didn’t specify whether the spending was all on one mother or divided among several mothers, for

Local. Personal. Flexible.

In other words exactly what your employees deserve.

Everything you want a health plan to be.

Physicians Health Plan phpmichigan.com/employers

10 MAY 2019

REFLECTIONS example, someone’s wife, mother and grandmother.

Either way, it’s not much compared to the $10 billion in gifts I’m expecting from each of my kids.

Last year, the top three choices in terms of money spent on Mother’s Day were jewelry, with 34 percent of Americans anticipated to spend a total of $4.6 billion; dinner or brunch with 55 percent of Americans going this route to the tune of $4.4 billion; and last, flowers, which were the choice for 69 percent of shoppers at a total of $2.6 billion.

Since “experience gifts” such as trips, concerts, and spa days seem to be what roughly 29 percent of moms prefer, one can only wonder how many of them will get their wishes with so much money historically spent on jewelry and brunch - unless the roughly 45 percent of shoppers spending $2.5 billion on gift cards hand them over to mom to spend on parachuting or a hot air balloon ride. Since I’m afraid of heights, I wouldn’t opt for an experience gift that requires me to deal with anything higher than the third shelf at any upscale shoe store.

I’m going to make this Mother’s Day easier for my kids by telling them they can each just buy me a card – with $10 billion in it. ■ Teece Aronin is a writer and career coach.

She works with individuals from all walks of life, including persons with disabilities and career-changers. Contact her at teecearonin8 @gmail.com, and read her blog, Chipped Demitasse, at chippeddemitasse.blogspot.com.

FINANCIAL FACTS

You Can Make aDifference

BY DEIDRE DAVIS

HELP CHILDREN BECOME FINANCIALLY SAVVY ADULTS

As a parent, you play a vital role in educating your children. Even if you are not a parent, you may have children in your life you want to support. As children grow, financial education becomes as important as lessons in English, math and social studies. Helping young people establish good money management habits early will help them to become financially responsible adults; the more they learn and the sooner they learn it, the better off they will ultimately be.

Passing financial knowledge on to young people will teach them important lessons in responsibility and how to make sound financial decisions. Here are some ways to start.

First Steps If the young person in your life doesn’t already have a savings account, it’s a great idea to open one.

From there, you can teach him or her the fundamentals of saving money through the practice of creating savings goals.

For example, you can encourage children to save at least half of the allowance and gift money they receive.

They could also set a goal of saving a certain amount of money each day or week. For instance, they could save 50 cents in loose change every day, reaching

$182.50 in a year – or even more by putting the funds into a savings account, where dividends will be earned throughout the year.

learning financial basics fun and interactive. There are five youth account levels:

Learn by doing

• Dollar Dog (3-6 years)

• Sweet Pea (0-2 years) • Cyber Saver (7-10 years)

A great way to emphasize new skills is to put them into practice. Allow young people to make deposits, withdraw money and purchase items using funds in their accounts. This will not only teach basic money management skills but will also give them a sense of ownership and control over their earnings.

• Money Club (11-13 years) • CU Succeed (14-17 years) After opening a youth account, members will receive a free gift, can participate in contests and special events, and enjoy access to free gaming apps. In addition, all youth account members will receive one virtual coin for every $10 deposited into their accounts. They can then redeem these coins for items in the Youth Store at ComputerLine, MSUFCU’s online banking system.

For more information, visit msufcu.org or stop by a branch today. ■

You could also teach the basics of credit by lending a young person a small amount of money if there is something he or she wishes to purchase but does not yet have all of the funds to do so. You can use this as an opportunity to show how the repayment process works by setting up weekly or monthly payments or automatic deductions from an allowance. To make this experience even more realistic, you could include loan terms, interest rates, late fees and/or grace periods.

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.

Youth accounts Michigan State University Federal Credit Union offers youth accounts that provide the tools and resources to start the savings process and make

C

M

MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL! Buy Xeomin to help reduce frown lines and crows feet and get $50 off!

Buy Radiesse & Belotero fillers, get Xeomin for $1!

Buy 2 Xeomin & Get free fire and ice facial for you and mom! $300 value! *Eligibility determined during consultation

agelessbeautycenterokemos.com

A

P

A

I

G

T

A

A

L

A

Z

R

I

E

N

A

E

“

Advertising in CAWLM has given me exposure in the community that I never expected. While targeted as a magazine for women, its appealing layout, interesting articles and long shelf life creates readership from men as well.

I often am told by professional men that they saw my ad in CAWLM!

”

SALLY BABBITT Babbitt Legal Group

2395 Jolly Road Suite, #145, Okemos, MI, 48864 | 517-203-5052

MAY 2019

11

LOCAL WOMAN

TRACI Photo by Mary Gajda

RUIZ

PASSIONATE TO PROTECT LANSING

BY KYLE DOWLING Traci Ruiz is a retired police officer who worked for 25 years with the Lansing Police Department.

“It was an honor to serve with the Lansing Police Department,” says Traci. “I really wanted to work in the Lansing Community that I was raised in.”

During her time as a police officer, Ruiz saw that there was a need to help the elderly in her community.

Some were being left to live by themselves with no assistance or support, and others were becoming victims of abuse.

“We don’t have a nationwide group to help the elderly like we do with children,” Ruiz said. “Even if they are victims of the same crimes.”

Ruiz became passionate about helping the elderly.

Her mission is to enable seniors to live a better life and access to resources, medical care, judicial and legal assistance.

12 MAY 2019

She advocates for elder abuse awareness by teaching others to look for the signs of abuse and neglect, with emphasis on teaching providers and doctors to be aware.

“It’s very scary for seniors,” Ruiz explained.

“Sometimes the abuse comes from their only caregiver and you don’t even have the resources to leave. There is a tangle of issues involved, and I want to be a voice for these people that need help.”

On top of her work with the elderly, Ruiz started her own consulting business called Ruiz Consultants LLC. There they provide consultations on safety and preparedness.

“We provide a wide variety of services,” Ruiz said.

“Everybody has a right to be safe. We’re approached by many different companies like attorneys, law firms, insurance agencies and community groups.”

Ruiz Consultants provides safety education, which is a way to identify potential safety hazards and prevent them thus creating a safe work environment for employees. Ruiz and her team can also assess workplaces to help develop an awareness of potential threats of workplace violence.

Having trained police recruits for 20 years, Ruiz Consultants are equipped to teach self-defense. She believes that self defense and physical fitness are the keys to personal safety.

“Self-defense is not just the ability to defend yourself,” Ruiz explained. “It’s also a situational awareness and conflict avoidance. Physical fitness will serve you for life.”

For more information on Ruiz Consultants visit ruizconsultants.com. ■

Hyacinth House Hanging Baskets A Blooming!

BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE

THROUGH THE MONTH OF MAY CASH AND ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

(517) 482-3456 1800 South Pennsylvania Ave LANSING, MI 48910 HALF BLOCK NORTH OF MT. HOPE

HyacinthHouseFlowers.Com Mon/Sat 8AM - 6PM MAY 2019 13 Sun 10AM - 4PM

A GARDEN

OF HOPE

Photo by Mary Gajda

NONPROFIT

BY KYLE DOWLING

A Garden of Hope is a national nonprofit organization that works to support girls and give them the skills, experience and confidence to get ahead in life and to become leaders.

“We want to help these girls to excel,” said LaShaunta Waller, the president and founder. “We want to give these girls the support and community that they need to achieve excellence.”

Waller, along with her husband and two children, has been working for five years to bring out the best in girls.

Each group of girls will have a different experience depending on their needs. They can be taught things like financial literacy, manners, etiquette, and to recognize inner and outer beauty. They even have self-defense if that’s what the girls want. The organization also helps them find a goal if they don’t already have one.

A Garden of Hope helps girls between eighth grade and the end of high school become the best they can be in a safe environment.

“We hope to help younger girls and give them role models,” Waller said. “The girls can even get mentors that will help them achieve short-term goals, and some stay with the girls through college.

“We get girls from all income levels,” Waller explained. “While they all come from different backgrounds, we want them all to leave at a higher level of confidence and on their path to excellence in their lives.”

Many girls who live below the poverty line don’t have the help they need to fill out their college applications, or even the courage to fill them out at all. A Garden of Hope is working toward helping all girls to know that they are worth it and have the strength to accomplish their goals.

“It’s hard to get through to some kids that they have the strength to do this,” Waller said. “These girls have low confidence in themselves, so it takes some time to help them see their strengths and turn their weaknesses into strengths as well.”

Through the efforts of A Garden of Hope, many girls have been able to do things they never thought they would be able to do.

“We have formal events that the girls attend,” Waller said. “I decorate my home and we have formal chefs

14 MAY 2019

and servers. Many of them tell us that before they came to us, they would have been very intimidated by a formal setting.”

A Garden of Hope also gives out a $4,000 scholarship every year and has done other great things for the girls in the program, like giving them a computer and printer to work with or helping them to open their own bank accounts.

“When I choose the scholarship’s winner, I don’t just look for the girl who is doing the best in the program,” Waller explained. “I look for girls that have had a lot of improvement and are taking what they are learning and applying it in the real world.

Twice a year, A Garden of Hope holds a black-tie event called A Cinderella Story. It’s open to the public and is meant to show off what the girls have accomplished. Each girl has a biography in the program book and a prerecorded introduction when they come out with their fathers. The scholarship is awarded here as well in front of media, mentors and family.

Hope in the organization’s title is an acronym for “Helping Other People Excel”, and that encapsulates this group perfectly. ■ Kyle Dowling is an employee of M3 Group and is pursuing a writing degree at MSU. He enjoys fiction writing, video games and movies.

BIZ COACH

BY SUSAN COMBS

ARTIFACT

TEAM BUILDING: THE CRUCIAL GLUE

Late spring and summer seem to be good times to schedule team-building sessions. Could your team use a tune-up? Maybe a fun activity to strengthen the glue that holds everyone together? Or maybe learn some new skills?

community resonates with them. Work on a Habitat house, prepare a meal at a soup kitchen, beautify the grounds at the zoo, or play with dogs and cats at a shelter. See what most excites your team and plan a rewarding volunteer activity that you can all do together.

Here are a few ideas:

FOOD

VOLUNTEER TOGETHER

Isn’t it amazing how much everyone at the office loves food? For team-building, you could have a lunch where everyone brings in a favorite homemade dish or have a chili cook-off.

With almost half of our workforce these days comprised of millennials, consider tackling a volunteer activity together. Millennials tend to be mission-driven, so a chance to do good in the

The artifact exercise is a great way to kick-off a teambuilding session. You ask everyone to bring an object that is special to them and share a story around it.

The leader should go first. It gives her an opportunity to show openness, transparency and vulnerability. It’s a great way to learn about what is important to others on the team. If you have a large team, you may need to break into smaller groups of five or seven people.

DEEP DIVE INTO VALUES This exercise can be done with values already established. This can be done in short bursts, taking one value at a time or consider tackling them all at an off-site meeting. For example, if “inclusive” is a value, ask everyone, “What does that mean? How does that translate into action?” It’s a good way to get everyone’s perspective and to see how to make your company or team values come alive.

Take time this spring and summer to get the team together. Have some fun. Have good conversation.

Connect. And enjoy the warm weather. ■

Susan Combs, MBA and professional certified coach, works with clients to enhance their leadership and communication skills. Combs manages four corporate mentor programs, the ATHENA WIN Executive Connections groups and the Leadership Lansing program. For more info visit SusanCombsCoaching.com or call 517-231-7606.

Call me today at 517.253.8563 With 18 years of experience serving successful women and their families in the Lansing area, Stephanie uses her comprehensive approach to financial planning to provide advice for women who want to be empowered and informed as they make complex decisions about their future.

for a complimentary initial consultation.

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

Marlaine C. Teahan

Melisa M. W. Mysliwiec

Probate and Trust Administration.

Expertly done. Compassionately handled.

L an sing

124 W. Allegan St. Suite 1000 517.482.5800

Gr and R api ds

D e troit

125 Ottawa Ave. NW Suite 153 616.301.0800

1 Woodward Ave. Suite 1550 313.237.7300

fraserlawfirm.com

Stephanie Milosavlevski

CFP®, CDFA® Financial Advisor 2139 Commons Parkway Okemos, MI 48864 • 517.253.8563 stephanie.j.milosavlevski@ampf.com ameripriseadvisors.com/stephanie.j.milosavlevski *Source: Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts (IDFATM). The initial consultation provides an overview of financial planning concepts. You will not receive written analysis and/or recommendations. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2018 Ameriprise Financial, Inc., All rights reserved. 2191972ACMR0818

MAY 2019

15

16 MAY 2019

Design by Jeanette Wummel

Zookambi, Potter Park Zoo’s educational summer day camp, begins Monday, June 17, offering children a variety of hands-on experiences, animal presentations and access to exclusive adventures in the zoo.

POTTER PARK ZOO'S ZOOKAMBI EDUCATIONAL

SUMMER CAMP BEGINS JUNE 17

“We look forward to bringing hundreds of young people to the zoo and educating them on the importance of conserving animals and the natural world,” said Amy Morris-Hall, Potter Park Zoological Society executive director. “This program is not only educational, it entertains children in an impactful and memorable way.”

Campers can learn what it takes to run a zoo, about fascinating animal behaviors, participate in hands-on (and sometimes messy) projects, about ecosystems and how to protect them, and be inspired by the zoo’s animal residents.

Zookambi camp classes are offered for students grades 1-12 in the morning from 9 a.m. to noon and in 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the afternoon. Or campers can choose both a morning and afternoon session for a full day experience.

For campers staying all day, lunchtime supervision is included, they just need to bring a lunch with them.

The half day program is $90 for Potter Park Zoo members and $105 for nonmembers. The full day program is $180 for members and $210 for non-members, with snacks provided in each session.

All programs run Monday through Friday. Extended care to accommodate early drop-off or late pick-up of campers is available for a small additional fee. To find more information or to register your child, visit https:// potterparkzoo.org/zookambisummercamp/. Space is limited. ■

MAY 2019

17

10 THINGS YOU SHOULD BRING ON EVERY HIKE 1. APPROPRIATE FOOTWEAR

For a short day hike that doesn’t involve a heavy pack or technical terrain, trail shoes are great.

For longer hikes, carrying heavier loads or more technical terrain, hiking boots offer more support.

2. KNIFE OR MULTIPURPOSE TOOL

These enable you to cut strips of cloth into bandages, remove splinters, fix broken eyeglasses and perform a whole host of repairs on malfunctioning gear.

3. EXTRA WATER AND A WAY TO PURIFY IT Without enough water your body’s muscles and organs simply can’t perform as well. Consuming too little water will not only make you thirsty, but susceptible to hypothermia and altitude sickness.

4. EXTRA FOOD

Any number of things could keep you out longer than expected: getting lost, enjoying time by a stream, an injury or difficult terrain. Extra food will help keep up energy and morale.

5. SAFETY ITEMS

The warmth of a fire and a hot drink can help prevent hypothermia. Fires are also a great way to signal for help if you get lost. If lost, you’ll also want a whistle, as it is more effective than using your voice to call for assistance (use three short bursts).

And just in case you’re out later than planned, a flashlight or headlamp is a must-have item to see your map and where you’re walking.

6. DAYPACK/BACKPACK

You’ll want something you can carry comfortably and has the features designed to keep you hiking smartly. Don’t forget the rain cover; some packs come with one built-in. Keep the other essentials in the pack and you’ll always be ready to hit the trail safely.

7. FIRST-AID KIT

Prepackaged first-aid kits for hikers are available at any outfitter. Double your effectiveness with knowledge. Take a first-aid class with the American Red Cross or consider a wilderness first-aid class.

8. MAP AND COMPASS

A map and compass not only tell you where you are and how far you have to go, they can help you find campsites, water and an emergency exit route in case of an accident. While GPS units are very useful, always carry a map and compass as a backup.

9. SUNSCREEN AND SUNGLASSES

Especially above the tree line when there is a skin-scorching combination of sun and snow, you’ll need sunglasses to prevent snow blindness and sunscreen to prevent sunburn.

10. RAIN GEAR AND EXTRA CLOTHING

Dressing in layers allows you to adjust to changing weather and activity levels. Two rules: avoid cotton (it keeps moisture close to your skin) and always carry a hat. ■

SUMMER KIDS CAMP

Camps run 9am-3pm Pre/Post care available for additional fees 5 convenient locations Weekly field trips Field trip shirt Daily breakfast and lunch $30/Res; $55/Non-Res

Register online to save $5 www.lansingmi.gov/parks Call 517-483-4311 for more information

LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION

EIGHT different themed weekly camps of non-stop THEMES

June 10 - August 30 Ages 3-5: Half-Day Camps

Ages 5-14: Full-Day Camps

Register today: impression5.org or (517) 485-8116, ext. 132 18 MAY 2019

fun

Boredom Busters Leggo My Eggo Oopy Gloopy and a Little Loopy Party in the USA Summer Spooktacular and more!

Join us for our open house:

June 13 from 68pm AT GIER COMMUNITY CENTER

LOOKING FOR OPTIONS FOR YOUR KIDS THIS SUMMER? CHOOSE CMS’

MUSIC CAMPS

CHOOSE FROM FOUR SUMMER DAY CAMPS: ERIC ‘RICSTAR’ WINTER MUSIC THERAPY CAMP: JUNE 13-15 (for adults); JUNE 17-19 (for youth/adolescents/young adults) MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND CAMP: JULY 8-12 TIME TO SHINE MUSICAL THEATRE CAMP: JULY 15-26 (grades 8-12: July 15-26; grades 2-8: July 22-26) BEGINNING STRINGS CAMP: AUGUST 5-9

FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE •

REGISTER TODAY • INFO AT WWW.CMS.MSU.EDU

Community Music School College of Music

MAY 2019 48823 19 4930 S. HAGADORN RD., EAST LANSING

(517) 355-7661 • WWW.CMS.MSU.EDU

20GOODGIRLRADIO.COM MAY 2019

Photo by Mary Gajda

Good Girl Radio and Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine have partnered to feature our participating 2019 cover women in an on-camera interview with Good Girl Radio! Tune in the second Thursday of every month to hear more from these amazing women.

COVER STORY

l l A Not

Superheros Wear Capes A mother’s work never ends

BY ALICIA FINCH

“It’s the nurturing, the intuition. We’re trained tough.” Blackstock explained. “Regardless of what branch someone is in, we can say we are trained tough, and to look at a person who is trained tough and see to that someone is broken, that as that mothering, nurturing instinct... they’re the same skills.”

Natrenah Blackstock, wife, mother and director at the Ingham and Clinton County Department of Veterans Affairs, implements an eight, eight, eight rule: eight hours working, eight hours being a wife, mother and leisure time, and eight hours sleeping.

A veteran herself, Blackstock follows her passion for helping other vets find the resources available to them to help them live a better life.

It’s no shock that being a mother with a full-time career is hard work. Being a mom in general is hard work. But it is also one of the most rewarding jobs anyone can take on. Blackstock explained how it is the most rewarding thing is seeing her children’s success.

As a mother of three, Blackstock feels education is one of the most important things to instill because that covers an umbrella of things. She ensures she spends quality time with her children; a daughter age 15, and two sons ages 15 and 5. Friday night is family night, a weekly staple in the Blackstock household where they play games and enjoy each other’s company. They also travel as a family with a biannual trip to South Carolina to see family, and of course, enjoy the warmth and sunshine that we lack here in Michigan during winter.

“When they succeed, when they receive an award or recognition to acknowledge the fact that they

“It’s how we make it through the winter months,” Blackstock joked.

“It’s more like reaching back and helping fellow veterans,” Blackstock said. “Making a difference as it pertains to the quality of life.”

learned it from their mom,” Blackstock said. “It can literally take you into tears.”

Photo By Shawnta Necole Photography

Mothers usually take on multiple roles in the household. From teacher to a chef to housekeeper and CEO, a mother’s job is endless.

So, how do you balance it all, running the household, working full-time, raising the kids, school functions, being a wife and the list goes on and on, and on some more?

Following three years on active duty, Blackstock served as a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserve. Although her duty ended, her service did not. She spent seven years as the director of the Georgetown County Department of Veterans Affairs in Georgetown, South Carolina, before bringing her talents to Michigan to take on her new role as director of Ingham and Clinton county VAs. She explained some situations where being a mom is similar to what she deals with at the VA. The VA is more than a resource for vets, it’s a support system, a place to be heard, counseled and a means of transportation. It’s a place to educate and help, kind of like a mom. It’s clear when talking to Blackstock how much she cares for her fellow vets. In fact, her role as a mother may be one of her traits that helps in her VA role.

Let’s be honest; moms have that intuition that when something is wrong; they’re usually there with a solution. Blackstock’s role in her career isn’t much different.

MAY 2019 Left to right: Son, DaVier, Daughter, Nakayla, husband, James Jr., son James21 III and Natrenah Blackstock

COVER STORY

Photo By Shawnta Necole Photography

When asked what’s one piece of advice she would give a new mother, Blackstock replied, “Don’t skip out on self-care. That’s something I learned the hard way. Regardless of how hectic life gets I have to take that time as alone time.”

Although she has a full plate already, Blackstock takes time to do philanthropy outside of the work she does as a mother and VA director. She is currently involved in and passionate about community youth after partnering with Michigan State University’s 4-H program. She is in the process of launching an urban agriculture initiative for underprivileged children on the south side of Lansing.

It’s just one more motherly trait that Blackstock demonstrates and one more reason why she and all mothers are important to our daily lives and community. ■

Alicia Finch is a journalism graduate of the University of Akron and is now residing in Mason.

When not playing with her yorkie poo, she enjoys her coral reef tank and all things fitness related.

Left to right: Martha Green, Daughter, Nakayla and Natrenah Blackstock

Put your business at the Centre of it all

Eyde Co. is now leasing space at the Knapp’s Centre | Call today (517) 351-2480 | eyde.com 22 MAY 2019

AN EVENING THAT So

IT LIGHTS UP

their

Fu TuRE

THE CHILDREN’S TRUST FUND OF MICHIGAN’S 17TH ANNUAL

Join us for one brilliant evening that will brighten many days to come for children all over Michigan. Enjoy great music, sparkling conversation, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and lively bidding on a wide range of premium auction items.

Your attendance benefits the Children’s Trust Fund to help prevent child abuse and neglect in Michigan.

Help us make the night shine.

Wednesday, May 15, 2019, 5:00 p.m.

Breslin Center, MSU Campus East Lansing, Michigan To donate, purchase tickets, pre-register, and preview live and silent auction items, visit ctfauction.givesmart.com

2019 CHILDREN'S ADVOCATE AWARD HONOREE(S) Former Senate Majority Leader Arlan Meekhof State Senator Curtis Hertel Jr.

FEATURED LIVE AUCTION HIGHLIGHTS All-American Road Show Tour with Chris Stapleton Arts and Canals in Amsterdam – Proost!

Detroit-Belle Isle Grand Prix Package Detroit Tigers Suite Package Kea Lani Maui – Luxury Oceanfront Resort Michigan State University Football Suite Belize – The Caribbean Sea at Your Back Door Tour the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Then Batter Up!

Premiere Sponsors ®

Official Carrier

Children’s Trust Fund of Michigan, 235 South Grand Avenue, Suite 1411 Lansing, MI 48933 800-CHILDREN

This ad is generously underwritten by

MAY 2019

23

FASHION 2

1

6

4

5

3 14

n o i t i s n ra SPRING TO SUMMER TFROM As spring slowly turns to summer, Kellie’s Consignments has everything you need to be fashion forward. Wear flirty booties with a sundress as you make the transition between seasons, or pair florals or pops of color with denim or your work basics for a little flare.

From Mother’s Day brunch to a day on the job or a night on the town, visit Kellie’s for the looks you love and prices you will appreciate!

(1) Pink lace top, size large, $9; (2) Vintage wicker purse, $44; (3) Aqua necklace, $12; (4) Pink faux pearl necklace, $15; (5) Aqua booties, size 6, $22; (6)White dress, size 4, $14; (7) Multi-colored dress, size medium, $14; (8) Mauve tank top, size large, $7; (9) Blush crossbody purse, $14; (10) White capris, size 8, $12; (11) Floral heels, size 8, $12; (12) Calvin Klein fuchsia handbag, $12; (13) Turquoise vintage sundress, size small, $79; (14) Denim capris, size 6, $7. ■

13

Available at Kellie's Consignments

8 12

10

11

24 MAY 2019

9

7

RECIPE

BY CATHY BLATNIK DIRECTIONS

In a large bowl mix sugar, butter and egg with an electric mixer or by hand with a large spoon. When creamy, add the remaining ingredients and mix together well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 ½ hours. Spray a 12-inch pizza pan with non-stick cooking spray. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Remove batter from fridge and press evenly into the pizza pan.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until slightly brown and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

Let cool completely and then frost with buttercream frosting. Arrange fruit of your choice on top.

Keep refrigerated.

FRUIT PIZZA

Warmer weather means picnics and outdoor gatherings, more in-season fruits and lots of fun in the kitchen making spring and summer recipes – like this delicious fruit pizza!

Photo by Mary Gajda

enjoy!

FRUIT PIZZA RECIPE INGREDIENTS ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

1 cup white sugar 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) 1 large egg 3 cups white flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 ⁄2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla

BUTTERCREAM FROSTING INGREDIENTS ● ● ● ●

3 cups powdered/confectioner’s sugar 1 ⁄3 cup unsalted butter (softened) 1 1 ⁄2 teaspoons vanilla 3 tablespoons milk

DIRECTIONS

Mix powdered/confectioner’s sugar and butter together with a large spoon. Stir in vanilla and milk and beat by hand or with an electric mixer until smooth. If frosting is too stiff, then add milk a little bit at a time until it gets to the desired consistency. Spread frosting evenly on the “fruit pizza” with a knife or spatula. ■ Cathy Blatnik grew up in Maryland, but has lived in Michigan for almost 17 years with her family, which includes her husband, adult stepson, adult daughter and a son in high school. She has been baking and cooking for as long as she can remember in Cathy’s “Kitchen.”

What Makes Us the

De men t i a Exper ts ?

It’s All in the Details Every Step Matters: At JEA Senior Living we’ve spent 30 years perfecting the experience of aging gracefully. Everything in our communities has been strategically designed to meet the lifestyle of your loved one, through years of practice and research. All of this is done to provide the peace of mind, dignity and honor each and every one of us deserves.

• Carpet - Designed to help prevent fall risks and distractions.

• Layout - Perfectly designed for mobility without confusion. Wide hallways ensure ease of transportation. (Specifically wheelchair access.)

• Motion sensors - Adjustable according to each residents needs. This allows for immediate one on one care.

• Place settings - Color matters! Our meals and plates perfectly contrast, allowing our residents to navigate with ease.

• Lighting - Strategically set to minimize shadows to aid in navigation.

• Life story - Every individual has a fully customized experience based on their life story.

Office: (517) 203-3044 • 1634 Lake Lansing Rd • Lansing • MI • 48912 MAY 2019

25

DIY

Photo by Mary Gajda

D O - IT-YO U RS E L F

PAINTED FLOWER

Photo by Mary Gajda

POTS

BY JEANETTE WUMMEL

Painting plain flower pots is a fun way to add an extra touch to your space. They make for great gifts and can easily be done by all ages.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED ● Terra-cotta pot

WHAT TO DO 1.

2.

● Outdoor paint ● Sealer ● Paint brushes ● Cup of water ● Paper towels (for clean-up) ● Plants (flowers or succulents)

3.

Prep the terra-cotta pot by cleaning it. Making sure there is no dust or anything else on it.

Paint the pot using an outdoor paint. I used DecoArt patio paint that I found at a local craft store. A simple acrylic paint will work, as well.

The ideas are endless of what could be painted on the pot. Simple patterns of dots and lines work great. Want something a little bit more creative?

Purchase templates or freehand a piece of one-ofa-kind art onto the pot.

4.

When the pot is dry it is time to seal it. I used Clay Pot Sealer spray that I found at another local craft store. A clear acrylic spray would work, as well.

5.

Once the pot is completely dry, add flowers or succulents to finish off the look. ■ Jeanette Wummel is a graphic design specialist at M3 Group. She loves all things whimsical and geeky. She enjoys creating art in all medias. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, friends and her rescue dog, Peaches.

Allow the paint to dry completely.

RENAISSANCE CLEANING COMPANY

Is your chronically busy life keeping you from having a clean home? Maybe cleaning seems like a daunting task? Well, don’t give up hope of having a clean home; instead call us – the ones who make your home’s cleanliness our business.

Surprise mom on Mother’s Day! Established in 2005

MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL 10% DISCOUNT OFF INITIAL SERVICES

CODE: 1MOM19

• Fully bonded and insured • Pet-friendly

• Expert service • Green products • Affordable rates

517.376.3582 | renaissanceclean.com 26 MAY 2019

and Winners of the MSU’s Best Massage Award for the past 8 years!

$10 COUPON DISCOUNT

OFF

ANY REGULARY PRICED 60-MINUTE SERVICE

Hours: Mon-Sun 10am to 8pm massageandwellnessonline.com (517)203-1113 514 E. Grand River Ave. #5, E. Lansing, MI 48823

• Creative Goldwork • Diamonds and Gems MARK E. ARENDSEN G. G. (GIA) 124 W. ALLEGAN SUITE 1600 BOJI TOWER, LANSING, MICHIGAN 48933 517-482-5552 www.arendsenjewelers.com

Photo by Gage Skidmore

ADVERTISEMENT

LUKE PERRY'S

STROKE: WAS IT PREVENTABLE?

BY DR. SUSAN MAPLES It’s reported that Luke Perry, actor and ‛90’s heartthrob, died suddenly from his first ischemic stroke, with no history of cardiovascular disease (CVD). That report is inherently wrong! Of course, he had a history of CVD—it just wasn’t detected early enough.

Some would say Luke was lucky, since a stroke isn’t always deadly—it’s the number one cause of disability in our country. Survivors often lose the ability to speak, swallow, walk, drive and live independently, long before they die.

But like Luke, most of us don’t know we are diseased until we have a CVD event—a stroke or heart attack. Both are caused by a clot that blocks blood flow (and oxygen) to the organ. A stroke means a small part of the brain dies and disturbs function. The first sign might interrupt your balance, eyesight, facial expression, arm strength, or speech. Many mini-strokes have symptoms that come and go on their own, so one might ignore it, allowing the threatening conditions to get worse.

Long before a stroke, men might be lucky (and unlucky) enough to have the early warning sign of erectile dysfunction (ED), microvascular damage of the penis. If they rely on a little pill to increases blood flow, they might ignore ED as a sign of CVD. Women, on the other hand, might not notice microvascular deterioration until they show signs of dementia.

CVD is our number one worldwide disease, affecting 1 in 3—and projected to affect 1 in 2 by 2050. Every 40 seconds someone has a stroke and another has a heart attack. One third of Americans hospitalized for stroke are under age 65.

And why? For many years, we thought it was primarily from elevated cholesterol. Now we know that inflammation is the cause of arterial disease, not cholesterol! With chronic inflammation, the circulating cell-to-cell mediators damage the lining of our blood vessels, allowing the entry of enemies such as small dense particles of cholesterol, bacteria and inflammation fighting cells. The quality of plaque is also a factor (soft is worse than hard), not

just the quantity. This can be measured by a Carotid Intima-Media Thickness Test (CIMT)— an amazing non-invasive technology to help us qualify and quantify our arterial plaque and create a strategy to reduce it.

Let Luke Perry be your wake-up call. To prevent a stroke, learn more about inflammation and reduce yours! That means tackle such disorders as Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Vitamin D deficiency, Periodontal Disease (which affects most adults), insulin Resistance/Diabetes, obesity, food sensitivities/ allergies, smoking and the list goes on.

Last, but not least, choose an interdisciplinary medical/dental team that is constantly on the lookout for all aspects of chronic inflammation—it’s 100% treatable if you know you have it. ■ 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

Personalized Dentistry for a Lifetime of Health

WWW.DRSUSANMAPLES.COM MAY 2019

27

EVENTS MAY 3, 2019

MAY 3, 2019

Spring Fling Festival, Mason

Free Lunch at Kellie’s Consignments, Okemos

Spring has sprung! Come to Mason to experience all that Spring Fling has to offer. Events include a 5K run, the Courthouse craft show on Saturday, pie sale, duck race and more. The event is rain or shine. For those interested please visit our events webpage at lansing. org or call 517-676-1046 or email masonchamber@ masonchamber.org.

Free Lunch Friday is the first Friday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pass out your business cards, shop the sales and enjoy lunch. Please RSVP to let them know how much food to prepare. The event is on Eventbrite.

Visit kelliesconsignments.com for more information.

MAY 3, 2019 31st annual Commercial Bank Mason 5K Run/Walk/Roll, Mason Mason Public Schools Foundation proudly presents the 31st annual Commercial Bank Mason 5K Run/ Walk/Roll (we welcome runners, walkers, and those racing in wheelchairs and other assistive devices) on May 3 at 7 p.m. in downtown Mason. Don't forget the Bulldog races. One-mile and 100-yard dash will start after the 5K. And whether your kids prefer a princess, a superhero, or a villain, the League of Enchantment will provide entertainment at the run this year. They have been guests at other runs, comic conventions, hospitals, and community outreach events, and they have worked with charities such as the Make-a-Wish Foundation and The American Cancer Society. Visit lansing. org for more information.

28 MAY 2019

MAY 4, 2019 May the 4th Be With You, Lansing In celebration of “Star Wars” Day on May 4, Meat Southern BBQ & Carnivore Cuisine in Lansing’s Old Town will be hosting a “Star Wars”-themed tap event. Witch’s Hat will be providing the beer, Meat will be providing the food. Guests are encouraged to wear their best “Star Wars” outfit. Watch out for lightsaber battles. Visit this event on Facebook for more information.

MAY 8, 2019 Lansing Brew Run, Lansing Looking to spice up your running or walking in 2019?

Join us for the monthly Lansing Brewing Co. Brew Run & Walk series! Playmakers, LBC, and the Gillespie

Group are teaming up to provide a monthly Fun Run and Walk in downtown Lansing. This event will start and finish from Lansing Brewing Co., and participants can win raffle prizes, earn free swag for attending and enjoy a night at their new favorite watering hole.

The run will have a formal start at 6 p.m., but all participants are invited to start their run/walk as early at 5:30 p.m. or even after 6 p.m.; the course will officially close at 7 p.m. with a raffle and charity recognition at that time. The course may vary month to month with the route being sent electronically and maps printed at LBC when participants check-in. After the race, participants will meet in the Stockhouse for appetizers and Lansing's own favorite craft beers. Visit lansing.org for more information.

MAY 10, 2019 Workout Tank Top Make and Take Workshop, Lansing During this two hour make and take workshop, participants will get to learn to print a tank top on a printing press. While waiting your turn for the press, the fun continues as you create more printing swag on tabletop workstations. Participants will rotate the studio selecting from given graphics and patterns to create their own custom bandana and inspirational quote poster. Visit altprintingco.com for more information about this event.

TRI-COUNTY EVENTS MAY 10 - MAY 12, 2019

MAY 17 - MAY 18, 2019

MAY 18 - MAY 19, 2019

Mighty Uke Day 9

517 Day, Lansing

East Lansing Art Festival

The ninth annual Mighty Uke Day festival is coming to Old Town Lansing May 10 – 12 for a weekend of fun and music. As usual, MUD 9 will feature concerts, workshops, group strums, open mics, featured performers, children’s activities, informal opportunities to jam and much more. Friday night will feature headliner The Naked Waiters and opening acts Cynthia Kinnunen and Matt Dahlberg. Saturday evening will showcase headliner Danielle Ate the Sandwich and openers Steven Espaniola and Abigail Stauffer. The Sunday afternoon concert will be an intimate acoustic show with Danielle Ate the Sandwich and The Naked Waiters. A full slate of a la carte workshops will be offered on Friday and Saturday for all levels. Some are free, others have a charge. More info and tickets at: mightyukeday.com/ schedule-tickets/.

A super celebration of the 517. A weekend of fun, music and food from around the 517 area. If you like doing activities when you celebrate the 517 with great music you'll want to Rockabilly on the River at the Lansing Center. Enjoy frolicking on the Grand River with River Town Adventures. If you seek technology activities when you celebrate the 517 with great music, you'll want to head over to The Fledge for a day of tech fun. Visit lansing.org for more information about this event.

Join in celebrating the highly anticipated annual East Lansing Art Festival. The two-day event features fine art, music, art activities, live demos, poetry and an international-style food court in downtown East Lansing. Visit lansing.org for more information.

MAY 15, 2019 Beat the Brewer with Ommegang Brewery, Lansing The Grid Arcade & Bar features a craft brewery every month and invites the brewers in to challenge all patrons to an arcade or pinball match. Enjoy some unique featured beers, learn about the brewery and, if you can win, you'll get some sweet swag. Visit thegridoldtown.com for more information about this event.

MAY 18, 2019 - MAY 19, 2019 MSU Spring Arts and Crafts Show, East Lansing This is one of the largest arts and crafts shows in the state that includes a broad range of vendors selling handmade items including; candles, furniture, jewelry, home and yard decor, aromatherapy, clothing, children's toys, painting, photography, pottery, sculpture and much more! Visit lansing.org for more information.

MAY 31, 2019 Margarita Fest, Lansing Powered by City Pulse and Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority. Your ticket gets you up to 15 samples of signature margaritas from Lansing area bars and restaurants, live entertainment by Don Middlebrook and Jammin' DJs, a full-service bar mixing drinks on the riverfront and an assortment of Lansing’s best food vendors to satisfy almost any appetite! Dress up in your wildest tropical getup for our costume contest and have a chance to win a prize!

You must be age 21 and over, with valid ID to attend.

A portion of the ticket proceeds will benefit Ingham County Animal Shelter. Visit lansing. org for more information. ■

MAY 2019

29

MY COMMUNITY GLAC GOES RED: THINK HEART THINK HEALTH The Greater Lansing Area Club (GLAC) of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. held Goes Red: Think Heart Think Health on Feb. 21 to help spread the word and inspire women and others to make heart health a No. 1 priority.

Attendees enjoyed an evening of entertainment with local harpist Sheila Bryant and keyboardist Kevin Brown.

Surae Eaton, M.D. was a featured speaker and the evening included a fashion show & tell with heart survivors. ■ PHOTOS PROVIDED

From left to Right: Renee Morgan Freeman, GLAC Goes Red Chair, Joan Bauer, LCC Representative of Outreach and Community Affairs, Margherita Clark, LCC Dean of Health and Human Services, Loretta Osborn, Coordinator of Recruitment and Outreach, and Gloria Davis, GLAC President

Fashion show & tell heart survivors. From left to right: Ruby Foster, Patricia Bell, Alberto Pedrazza, Iris Oubee and Judy Nash.

Keynote Speaker, Dr. Surae Eaton, M.D.

GLAC Youth from left to right: LaDarius Jones, BreAnna Nixon and Ryleigh Lewis

"Butter Makes it Better"

"Butter Makes it Better" Helping individuals and families navigate the legal issues of death and incapacity.

SALLY BABBITT

WILLS • TRUSTS • PROBATE • LITIGATION • ESTATES • P OWER OF ATTORNEY

517-507-3306 | WWW.SALLYBABBITTLAW.COM 6005 W SAINT JOSEPH HWY, SUITE 302, LANSING MI 48917

30 MAY 2019

Central Location 3003 E. Kalamazoo St. Lansing, MI 48912 (517) 337-CAKE

South Location 6030 S. MLK Blvd.

Lansing, MI 48911 (517) 730-1642

www.bakencakes.com | Find us on Facebook

MY COMMUNITY LANSING STORYTELLERS

In its fourth year, the Lansing Storytellers Project offers a lineup of shows featuring real people from the community who are professionally coached to share their stories. Those people tell real life stories in a very real way. Upcoming dates and themes include “Growing Pains” July 16, “Bad Advice” Sept. 17, and “Consequences” Nov. 19 with locations to be announced. Coaching and information are available through opinions@lsj.com. ■ PHOTOS PROVIDED Cindy Kangas

Judy Brown Clark

Jillian Johnson

Mike Marriott

Haley Hansen

How does that work?

What happens next?

517.574.4523 5000 Marsh Road, Okemos

Inquisitive kids take a hands-on approach to investigating principles of STEM with Emmy award-winning host Dr. Rob Stephenson.

Learn more at wkar.org!

SPEND $30 GET $5 OFF

With coupon only. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Excluding tax. Does not include gift certificates. One coupon per person, per day.

WWW.KELLIESCONSIGNMENTS.COM

LEGACY JEWELRY & DECADES VINTAGE N o w i n s i d e K e l l i e ’s C o n s i g n m e n t s !

MAY 2019

31

PROFESSIONAL GUIDE DARLENE PUJA

SHARON KELLEY, MD

Darlene Puja is the proprietor and master injector of Ageless Beauty Center medical spa in Okemos. She studied physiology and psychology at Michigan State University and received her RN license from Lansing Community College. After graduation, Puja launched her career as a nurse in Michigan, where she specialized in cosmetics. That eventually led her into owning her own business and doing what she loves. As a medical professional, Puja subscribes to a conservative and educational approach to customize to her patients' needs. She provides the most sophisticated techniques and technologies available in skin care health and beauty to deliver the most beneficial and noninvasive treatments with a thoughtful and caring demeanor.

Dr. Sharon Kelley’s love of medicine and desire to make a commitment to helping people led her to Michigan State University, where she obtained her Ph.D. in physiology as well as her medical degree. She enjoys the challenges of dealing with women’s issues both in the clinic and in surgery.

In 1997, Kelley was a founding member of Alliance Obstetrics & Gynecology. She is active in all aspects of obstetrics and gynecology, including working with women through peri- and post-menopause, breast issues, surgery and caring for her OB patients. She is accepting new OB and GYN patients.

(517) 484-3000 Main Campus 1560 Turf Lane East Lansing, MI 48823

alliance-obgyn.com South Campus 1100 S. Cedar St. Mason, MI 48854

agelessbeautycenterokemos.com (517) 203-5052 2395 Jolly Road, Ste. 145 Okemos, MI 48864

DR. SUSAN MAPLES

SCOTT MACPHERSON

Dr. Susan Maples is a 30-year clinician who leads a total health and dental care practice in Holt, Michigan. She is one of the Top 25 Women in U.S. dentistry and also one of the Top 8 Innovators in Dentistry, according to Dental Products Report.

Dr. Maples is co-author of "Blabber Mouth, 77 Secrets Only Your Mouth Can Tell You To Live a Healthier, Happier, Sexier Life" and is the co-investigator for an award-winning study on the detection of diabetes in the dental office.

Executive Chef Scott Macpherson leads the culinary team of the Crowne Plaza Lansing West and its on-site restaurant, Bordeaux. He brings experience as sous chef of the historic Biltmore Estate and executive chef at the award-winning Rick Erwin Dining Group. Whether he’s creating inspired dishes for Bordeaux guests or fueling hundreds of conference attendees, Macpherson is at home in the kitchen. He learned the art of cooking and hospitality industry from his parents and became skilled in butchery, garde-manger, and enjoys the craftsmanship that goes into cooking. With the Crowne Plaza’s focus on locally-sourced ingredients, Macpherson is able to offer seasonal menus to guests.

Drsusanmaples.com (517) 694-0353 2101 N Aurelius Rd. Suite 1 Holt, MI 48842

crowneplaza.com/lansingwest (517) 391-1296 925 S Creyts Rd, Lansing, MI 48917

EHRIN HUHN

KELLIE JOHNSON

We are excited to introduce our new Health Services Director, Ehrin Huhn. Huhn is a licensed practical nurse with over seven years of experience in the memory care industry. She has a passion for providing direct care and advocating for those who have been affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Her belief is that, in order to provide the best quality of care to those we serve, staff must possess a strong knowledge base and understanding of the dementia disease process. Her compassion, attention to detail, and team approach will help to assure that our community environment resembles a comfortable home-like setting.

Kellie Johnson is the retail store founder and owner of Kellie’s Consignments, Moving & Estate Sales inspired by communitydriven interaction. She spends time in and out of the store building relationships and awareness about recycling through consigning and shopping resale. Kellie’s Consignments offers clothing, furniture and accessories at her retail store, and on the road, she offers estate sale services for those moving or looking to downsize. Her role at the organization includes operations, marketing, strategy, financing, cultivation of company culture, human resources, compliance with safety regulations, sales and public relations. Johnson was the 2016 recipient of the Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Spirit Award.

Jeaseniorliving.com (517) 203-3044 1634 Lake Lansing Rd Lansing, MI 48912

C

A

32 MAY 2019

P

I

A

T

L

A

R

kelliesconsignments.com (517) 574-4523 5000 Marsh Road Okemos, MI 48864

E Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine

G

A

Z

I

N

E

@CAWLM

Free Delivery Locally Owned Fast Reliable Service Medication Synchronization Program Do you take multiple medications and have them filled at different times throughout the month? If so, ask our pharmacist about Medication Synchronization. Medication Synchronization helps to coordinate your prescriptions to be filled on the same day every month. You can receive 30-day or 90-day supplies.

COMPOUND NAME Estriol/Estradiol [50%/50%] 0.5 mg/0.5 Gm Topical Cream

The Compounding Advantage For Hormone Therapy Pharmacy compounding is the preparation of customized medications for patients. The advantage of compounded hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is that it can be adapted specifically to fit each individual’s body and hormone levels.

Bio-identical hormones have the exact chemical structure as the hormones in the human body. The body recognizes them and allows them to mimic the function of the hormones the body produces on its own.

Testosterone 1% Topical Cream (VersaBase®) Estriol/Estradiol {80%120%) 1 mg/Gm/Testosterone 1 mg/Gm Testosterone 10% Topical Lipoderm® Testosterone 5% (WIW) Topical Lipoderm® (FormulaPlus TM BUD Study) Testosterone 5%/Chrysin 5% Topical Cream Progesterone 100 mg/mL Progesterone 200 mglmL Progesterone Capsules 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, SR Progesterone Capsules 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, IR Estradiol Vaginal Cream 0.2% - 0.02% Estriol Vaginal Cream 0.2% - 0.02%

Contact us for information on pricing.

Our Family of Pharmacies LANSING 1001 East Mt. Hope Lansing, Ml 48910 Phone: 517-316-0711 Hours: M-F 9am-6pm Sat 9am-2pm, Sun Closed

LAINGSBURG 7404 Woodbury Rd. Lainsburg, Ml 48848 Phone: 517-651-1777 Hours: M-F 9am-6pm Sat 9am-2pm, Sun Closed

PATIENT CARE, LANSING 3955 Patient Care Drive Lansing, Ml 48911 Phone: 517-393-1000 Hours: M-F 9am-5pm Sat-Sun Closed

CHESANING 126 W. Broad St Chesaning, Ml 48616 Phone: 989-845-3609 Hours: M-F 9am-6pm Sat 9am-2pm, Sun Closed

FLINT 3097 Genesee Rd. Flint, Ml 48506 Phone: 810-744-9101 Hours: M-F 9am-6pm Sat 9am-2pm, Sun Closed

PERRY 520 N. Main St. Perry, Ml 48872 Phone: 517-625-8640 Hours: M-F 9am-6pm Sat 9am-2pm, Sun Closed

HASLETT 1620 Haslett Rd. Ste B Haslett, Ml 48840 Phone: 517-339-0300 Hours: M-F 9am-6pm Sat 9am-2pm, Sun Closed

EAST LANSING 3340 E. Lake Lansing Rd. East Lansing, Ml 48823 Phone: 517-580-4216 Hours: M-F 9am-6pm Sat 9am-2pm, Sun Closed

OWOSSO 110 W. Exchange St. Owosso, Ml 48867 Phone: 989-725-1344 Hours: M-F 9am-6pm Sat 9am-2pm, Sun Closed

CHARLOTTE 354 S. Cochran Ave., Ste 3 Charlotte, Ml 48813 Phone: 517-543-9990 Hours: M-F 9am-6pm Sat 9am-2pm, Sun Closed

MLK, LANSING 1122 W. Holmes Rd. 23 Lansing, Ml 48910 Phone: 517-574-5015 Hours: M-F 9am-6pm Sat 9am-2pm, Sun Closed

LANSING, WESTSIDE 4801 W. Saginaw Hwy Lansing, Ml 48917 Phone: 517-833-4629 Hours: M-F 9am-6pm Sat 9am-2pm, Sun Closed

www.centralpharmacymi.com

$10 OFF FOR ANY NEW OR

TRANSFERRED PRESCRIPTION With coupon only. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Excluding tax.

Government funded plans excluded.

MAY 2019

33

Make the most of summer with a new vehicle!

From road trips to visiting the local ice cream shop, enjoy your summer in a new vehicle. MSUFCU has auto loans for both new and used vehicles with flexible terms and low rates.

Get preapproved today! msufcu.org | 517-333-2424 | Visit a branch

AUTO LOANS as low as

3

APR is Annual Percentage Rate as of 3/27/19 and is stated for members with qualifying credit scores. Rate subject to change. Actual rate may vary and will be based on member credit score. Full details at msufcu.org/vehicle_loans. Federally insured by NCUA.

% .25 APR