Capital Area Women's Lifestyle Magazine May 2020

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WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE POTTER PARK ZOO CELEBRATES CENTENNIAL OVERNIGHT FRENCH TOAST YOU WON’T MIND STAYING HOME FOR THIS RECIPE A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO FRONTLINE HEALTH CARE AND ESSENTIAL WORKERS WHEN WORDS AREN’T ENOUGH

Mother’s Day

MEET COVER WOMAN AMYJO DUCKETT AND FAMILY

MAY 2020

1

2 MAY 2020

221 W Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933 Phone: (517) 203-3333 | Email: info@cawlm.com CAWLM.COM

ISSUE V • VOLUME XIII

PUBLISHER TIFFANY DOWLING MANAGING EDITOR MARY GAJDA MEDIA MANAGER JENNIFER HODGES MEDIA SPECIALIST CAREY JARVIS ACCOUNT MANAGERS MELISSA DEMOTT LIZ RENO-HAYES JENNIFER HODGES MEGAN FLEMING COMMUNICATION SPECIALISTS ADAM LANSDELL AMANDA FISCHER CHRISTOPHER NAGY ART DIRECTOR MARK WARNER PUBLICATION DESIGNER LAUREN BRUMBACH GRAPHIC DESIGNERS CHELSEY FREEDMAN CODY FELL LAUREN BRUMBACH MATTHEW MCDANIEL WEB MANAGER KYLE DOWLING CONTRIBUTORS AMANDA FISCHER CATHY BLATNIK CHRISTOPHER NAGY DEIDRE DAVIS KERRY HART

KYLE DOWLING LISA ALLEN-KOST MARY GAJDA TEECE ARONIN

ADVERTISING INFORMATION (517) 203-3333 Interested in hosting a distribution location?

Give us a call at (517) 203-3333 or email at info@cawlm.com.

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Let me create a personalized wealth plan or guide you in updating your current plan, structured around your unique life.

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Executive Director – Investments Taking care of you, your family, or your business is my number one priority. For over 20 years I have been simplifying the complex world of retirement plans and wealth management for clients like you, earning the #1 Financial Advisor position for nearly a decade at a Forbes, “Top 100 Wealth Management Firm” with over $400 million assets under administration.

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Michigan Licensed Insurance Producer: Life, Health, Accident, Property & Casualty

Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle is published monthly

by M3 Group, Lansing, Michigan All rights reserved. © 2020 M3 Group

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

Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. | 1400 Abbot Road, Suite 430 | East Lansing, MI 48823 Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. Transacts Business on All Principal Exchanges and Member SIPC 2915539.1

MAY 2020

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MAY COVER 10

Where The Wild Things Are

13

A Heart of Many Rooms: AmyJo Duckett

23

Recipe

IN THIS ISSUE 5

From The Publisher

6

Manners For The Modern-Day Woman

Station Blue Photography, St. Johns, MI

7

5 Outdoor Projects That Add Value To Your Home

8

Dear Kerry

9

Financial Facts

ADVENTURE AND CAMP GUIDE

21

Staying Connected Through Quarentine

17

22

Local Lady

24

Coping With An Empty Nest

25

Keeping Your Groceries Safe

26

My Community

29

Your Summer Reading List

Make Your Own Summer Camp Nature Scavenger Hunt

GO OUT AND PLAY 4 MAY 2020

On the cover: The Duckett Family | Cover photography by Station Blue Photography

FROM THE PUBLISHER

BY TIFFANY DOWLING

KEEP FOCUSING ON THE GOOD IT’S NOT HOW WE FALL THAT MATTERS. WE ALL FALL AT SOME POINT.

The key is how we rise.

Emotionally, psychologically and physically, we all have suffered in recent weeks. At times, it has been hard to have hope and maintain an optimistic outlook in the face of such despondency around us. The worry and uncertainty that are in overflowing abundance can seem like an impossible weight to sustain as we see business owners lose their life’s work and friends and loved ones losing their means of self-sufficiency and providing for their families.

endless acts of kindness, selflessness and charity to friends and strangers alike throughout this crisis have been both emotionally fulfilling and reassuring.

Yet even when it seems like we are forced to weather an attack on the soul; hope, optimism and inspiration can still be found around us.

Yet even when it seems like we are forced to weather an attack on the soul; hope, optimism and inspiration can still be found around us to provide the conviction to go on and the courage to persevere. The residents of Greater Lansing have been sustaining my morale and reminding me to keep rising.

The stories that have been told about seemingly

Our health care professionals should never again go unappreciated for standing on the front lines in this battle, but there are also many other workers who remained on the job and vigilant during the crisis. Everyone from grocery store employees to postal carriers should not be forgotten for their efforts to provide some semblance of comfort and normalcy during a highly uncomfortable and abnormal time.

The past month has been a test of the human spirit for us all, but I have confidence that we will endure, rise and achieve. And we will do those things through the gritted teeth of determination and persistence. I’m choosing to search for the silver lining in this situation. We get to spend time with loved ones in a way that we never have

before. I’ve watched as some people begin writing their “great American novel” or have used their talents to help so many who are in need. It’s important to believe we will emerge from this with a new normal and together we can make our lives even better than before. ■

Stay safe, Stay healthy, Stay strong,

Tiffany Dowling

Publisher

MAY 2020

5

Classical Music To Fit

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Jamie Paisley

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weekday afternoons

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5 OUTDOOR PROJECTS THAT ADD VALUE TO YOUR HOME COURTESY OF MCC

Exterior renovations can enhance the appearance of a property and make it more enjoyable for homeowners. Certain renovations have the potential to add value to a home, while others may do the opposite. Learning which ones have the largest return on investment can help homeowners select features that will have the most positive impact.

Curb appeal goes a long way toward attracting potential buyers. According to the National Association of Realtors, first impressions of a property have a strong influence on buyers.

Landscaping and external features can do much to influence such impressions.

Lawn Care Program Investing in a lawn care program that consists of fertilizer and a weed control application and can be

transferred over to a subsequent homeowner is an attractive feature. NAR said such a care program can recover $1,000 in value of the $330 average cost, or a 303% ROI. Low-Maintenance Lifestyle When choosing materials for projects, those that offer low-maintenance benefits can be preferential. These include low-maintenance patio materials, composite decking, vinyl fencing and inorganic mulched beds.

Fire Pit A fire pit can be used for much of the year. In the spring and summer, the fire pit is a great place to congregate to roast marshmallows or sip wine and gaze into the fire. In the fall, the fire pit can make for a cozy retreat. A fire pit that has a gas burner is low maintenance, and the National Association of Landscape Professionals says that most can recoup about $4,000 of their $6,000 average price tag.

Softscaping Hardscaping refers to structures like outdoor kitchens or decks. Softscaping involves the living elements of the landscape. Hiring a landscape designer to install trees, shrubs, natural edging and rock elements can do wonders toward improving the look and value of a home.

Pool or Water Feature In certain markets, particularly hot climates, a pool or another water feature is a must-have. However, in other areas where outdoor time is limited, a pool or water feature can actually lower the value of a home. Speaking with a real estate professional can give homeowners an idea of how a pool will fare in a given neighborhood.

Outdoor improvements can improve the marketability of a home, as well as enhance its appearance and function. ■

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DEAR KERRY

BY KERRY HART

DEAR KERRY,

Ready, set, grow.

Online classes begin week of June 1. lcc.edu/online

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

8 MAY 2020

I think the change in the seasons has affected me because I have been feeling so down during the recent winter months. This started before COVID-19 hit. I actually have a good life and outside of this new situation with the pandemic, nothing was really causing me stress or sadness. I wonder if I am suffering from depression. What can I do to bring myself out of this funk?

It is not uncommon for people to feel down during the winter months, so please know you are not alone.

It is not uncommon for people to feel down during the winter months, so please know you are not alone.

While the exact cause of seasonal affective disorder is unknown, it is widely suspected that less sunlight and more isolation are largely at fault. People tend to thrive off interacting with others, and many studies have confirmed the positive effects of sunlight’s vitamin D. Should you suspect depression, do not hesitate to contact a licensed therapist for an evaluation; however, if this is a seasonal issue, there are many natural and behavioral ways to combat seasonal depression.

These can also apply to those suffering from depression as a result of COVID-19.

Start your day off strong and soak up the morning sunshine, as the blues tend to be the most powerful in the morning. Enjoy a fantastic stretch, then open your curtains and bring in that natural light to lift your spirits. Speak with your doctor about having your vitamin D levels tested or about whether purchasing some supplements might an option.

Now that the weather is nice, don’t be afraid to get outside. A brisk walk in cooler weather can be healthy

for kids and adults alike. Plan for next year. If you are able to swing it, plan a winter vacation. You can go somewhere warm, find an indoor waterpark for the kiddos or hit the slopes for some winter sports — do whatever you think you would look forward to the most.

Come up with reasons to be around others so you can get in some much-needed social interaction to combat any isolation that naturally comes with being closed in the house. Get a workout in to get your endorphins pumping. Plan a date night with your honey, either in or out of the house to keep the core of your family strong when the going gets tough. Create traditions with family or friends that will give you something to look forward to. Saturday night could be board game night, or make Friday night your regular movie night. Plan a monthly party with friends where you get all bundled up and have some snacks and drinks by the fire pit while the kids play outside. Whatever you decide to do to beat the winter blues, keep in mind this is only for a season.

Spring has sprung, the weather is getting warmer and the days are getting longer. Hopefully those factors will lift your spirits. ■ 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.

FINANCIAL FACTS

BY DEIDRE DAVIS

HOW TO KEEP YOUR ACCOUNTS SAFE FROM FRAUD Saving, budgeting and planning are all important components of financial security.

However, we often overlook how financial security applies to how we protect ourselves and our money. Here are some ways to keep your accounts safe.

Common Types of Fraud When it comes to your financial accounts, the most prevalent types of fraud are identity theft, online scams and phishing.

• Identity theft is the use of your personal information, credit history or other identifying characteristics to make purchases or borrow money without your permission.

• Online scams are communications where someone uses deceptive tactics to persuade you to provide your confidential information so the fraudster can access your finances.

• Phishing happens when a fraudster poses as a reputable company via email, text message, phone call or social media

in an attempt to obtain your sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords and account details, as well as access your identification and money.

How to Protect Your Accounts If you believe your financial accounts have been accessed without your permission, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself: • Report lost or stolen debit or credit cards and checks immediately to your financial institution and/or credit card issuer.

• Monitor your account transactions regularly, and report any unusual activity and suspicious charges immediately.

• Create strong passwords and PINs with long, nonsense phrases using numbers, symbols and uppercase and lowercase letters.

• Only interact with websites you know and trust to avoid possible online scams Let Financial Institutions Help Many financial institutions have services that protect their members’ accounts against fraud. These include text or email

"Butter Makes it Better"

transaction notifications, eStatements, and more. Michigan State University Federal Credit Union offers its members: • A free mobile app for 24/7 monitoring, secure bill payment, and money transfers • Free eStatements • Two-factor verification for digital logins • Card Lock to lock or unlock your debit or credit cards • eAlerts for text message or email account notifications • Travel notes and more You can protect your accounts by being attentive and prepared to take appropriate actions in the event fraud occurs. If you have concerns about your accounts, contact your financial institution. ■ Deidre Davis is the chief marketing officer at Michigan State University Federal Credit Union.

MSUFCU’s headquarters are at 3777 West Road, in East Lansing. Contact Davis at deidre.davis@msufcu.org or (517) 664-7877.

Call me today at 517.253.8563 With 19 years of experience serving successful women and their families in the Lansing area, Stephanie uses her comprehensive approach to financial planning to provide advice for women who want to be empowered and informed as they make complex decisions about their future.

for a complimentary initial consultation.

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

Stephanie Milosavlevski

CFP®, CDFATM Financial Advisor

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

www.bakencakes.com | Find us on Facebook

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. © 2019 Ameriprise Financial, Inc., All rights reserved. 2681174ACMR0819 MAY 2020

9

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE POTTER PARK ZOO CELEBRATES CENTENNIAL

BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY

To refer to Potter Park Zoo’s beginnings as “humble” is a stunning understatement when you understand its evolution to the popular attraction it is today.

The award-winning Association of Zoos & Aquariums-accredited facility now boasts 535 animals, 99 species and 184,00 visitors each year. That, however, wasn’t the case when the zoo opened its doors in 1920.

“I know we had a couple of elks, a racoon. I think we had a couple of deer. It was slim pickings,” Zoological Society Executive Director Amy Morris-Hall said before confirming that Potter Park Zoo also was home to a bear in those early days. “It certainly wasn’t what it is now, but this was a community destination back then. It was a destination because of the activities that were taking place in the park. The animals were secondary to that. The zoo has been something that just continued to develop over time.”

Sitting on 85 acres of land off Pennsylvania Avenue in Lansing, with 20 of those acres the actual fencedin zoo, Potter Park Zoo remembers what it once was and recognizes how far it has come in care, conservation and education as part of the zoo’s centennial celebration this spring and summer.

With the opening of the zoo’s high season on Mother’s Day weekend, Potter Park Zoo visitors will be able to enjoy educational walking tours that transport guests through the zoo’s past and themed weekends of talks and activities. They can also visit Centennial Square to learn not just about the topics related to the facility’s history but also the future focus and ambitions for the site.

“We’ve been working on this for a year and a half, collecting photos and videos and historical information,” Morris-Hall said. “It’s an educational experience to help people understand how we became a modern zoo — how we went from a collection of animals for people to see to the center of conservation that we are now. When you think of a zoo today, it’s a whole different mindset than what it was 100 years ago. Back then, the welfare of the animals was secondary.”

Spring will also likely bring the anticipated public viewing availability of Jaali, the male black rhino born on Christmas Eve to international acclaim, as well as the two new baby otters born at the zoo in February.

The 100-year timeline connecting the past to the present has been a long and sometimes controversial journey. However, Morris-Hall said the journey reflects how ethics and attitudes toward conservation and animal welfare have evolved through the decades as education, knowledge and a more complete understanding of the needs of and care for animals has come into focus.

“I think it demonstrates the kind of path zoos took to make animal welfare their top priority. Our walking tour will exhibit that,” Morris-Hall said.

“It’s meant to inspire people about animals and nature because our top priority here is animal care.

“I hope Potter Park Zoo visitors walk away feeling like they learned about conservation through the animals in our care,” she added. “I hope they take actions in their own lives to improve the environment and the natural world.”

Getting that message across to the public is part of the focus of the zoo society that Morris-Hall leads. Potter Park Zoo has two overseeing bodies: the municipal side — which is an Ingham County department funded by a millage, admissions, parking and other factors — and the society side, which is a nonprofit support organization focused on conservation and education.

With a background in journalism and public relations, Morris-Hall has used her experience to help further the zoo society’s mission both within the zoo and beyond the zoo’s walls. She proudly points to the Falconers program, which is for special-needs children and is sensoryfriendly, as well as the Zoo in Your Neighborhood outreach program that brings animals to local libraries and community centers and provides free passes to the zoo. Zoo in Your Neighborhood received top honors for inclusivity and diversity from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums “The goals we have for our zoo are, obviously, to provide a wonderful guest experience and customer service, but we also want to be inclusive to all — and we have programming to make that happen,” she said. “With Zoo in Your Neighborhood, we’re reaching the communities that were not coming here.”

Providing the gold standard in animal care is another vital aspect of Potter Park Zoo’s mission, which is why it takes its accreditation with the Association of Zoos & Aquariums seriously. The accreditation process, which is undertaken every five years, ensures zoos like Potter Park meet the most stringent requirements to ensure animal welfare.

Photo by Kaiti Chritz - Potter Park Zoo 10 MAY 2020

What You See, What You Don’t

The birth of the rare male black rhino Jaali at Potter Park Zoo on Christmas Eve was celebrated worldwide, but when will guests be able to see him in person? Amy Morris-Hall, executive director of the zoological society, said Jaali as well as the two new baby otters born in February will likely be available for viewing this spring, but that’s not up to her.

At Their Own Pace

Animals at the zoo make the move to outdoor viewing areas on their own terms and when they’re good and ready. Some of it depends on the temperature, Morris-Hall noted. On a few unusually pleasant days in early March, zoo personnel opened the doors to Jaali’s enclosure to gauge his reaction.

Photo by Kaiti Chritz - Potter Park Zoo

“They come for three days and they look at everything. They open every drawer. They look at every first aid kit,” Morris-Hall said. “They meet with staff, they meet with board members, they met with employees.”

Of the 2,000 facilities that have licenses from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to exhibit animals, only 215 hold accreditations from the AZA. Morris-Hall noted that it reflects the dedication and singlemindedness that every zoo employee has on treating the animals with the top levels of care and compassion.

“I like working with this team,” Morris-Hall said. “It’s a passionate group of people, and we’re all here to do our best for our guests and our animals. I love this zoo. I am passionate about conservation, and I love teaching about what we do and why we do it.”

For more information on Potter Park Zoo and the centennial festivities, visit potterparkzoo.org. ■

“Mom walked out and Jaali followed,” Morris-Hall said. “She let out a snort as if to say, ‘I’m not so sure about this.’ And she walked back in and he followed. It’s going to be up to him when he comes outside. The door could be open, but they always get to choose.”

The otters were still in a nest box in early March, and Morris-Hall said their mother would likely have to teach them to swim before they made a public appearance.

An Unexpected Celebrity

Jaali was just one of nine major births at Potter Park Zoo in 2019. Other notable additions last year included two cotton-top tamarins and two western grey kangaroos.

However, Jaali caused such a sensation due to his rarity.

There are only an estimated 5,000 black rhinos in the wild and only 50 in human care at zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums.

Born in the early morning hours of Dec. 24, the zoo was ready to release news of his debut to local media. By the end of the day, Morris-Hall was fielding calls from CNN, and shortly thereafter international outlets like the BBC. “It was great because we really got to talk about the conservation aspect with Jaali and get that message out,” she said, adding that the hubbub wasn’t exactly surprising. “People love animals.

I did PR for years, so I know a story about the Michigan Municipal League isn’t going to go as far as a story about a couple of baby otters.

“But nothing went as far as Jaali,” she added.

What You Don’t See

Potter Park Zoo takes immense pride in its conservation initiatives and efforts, and some of those efforts are done completely behind the scenes.

In 2019, the zoo shipped 405 Puerto Rican crested toads for release back in the wild in Puerto Rico. Once thought to be extinct, Puerto Rican crested toads are now bred by zoos for reintroduction to their native land.

Photo by Kaiti Chritz - Potter Park Zoo MAY 2020

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5 WAYS TO COMMEMORATE MOTHER’S DAY WHEN MOM HAS PASSED AWAY COURTESY OF MCC

Losing a loved one is never easy. Whether the loss is recent or not, many people find the void created by a loved one’s passing never leaves them. Celebrating holidays or milestones can magnify feelings of loss, and such feelings may surface on Mother’s Day among people whose mothers are deceased.

People approach Mother’s Day in unique ways when their mother has been laid to rest. Such an experience is extremely personal, and there’s really no right or wrong way to mark the occasion. It can be challenging scrolling through other’s social media posts about happy brunches and thoughtful gifts.

Some, particularly those for whom the wounds may be especially fresh, may opt to avoid the celebration or go through the motions for the benefit of children or spouses. Others may embrace the bonds they had with their mothers by reflecting on their memories.

Those opting to stay connected to their mothers this year can recognize that, although Mom may be gone, they are not motherless. While Mother’s Day may be painful for people who

12 MAY 2020

have lost their mothers, the following are five ways to make the most of Mother’s Day.

WHAT WOULD MAKE HER HAPPY?

Take a heartfelt moment to really think about what made Mom tick and brought joy to her life.

Was it pouring over recipes in the kitchen? Did Mom like to trek to the top of a mountain in her hiking shoes? Pay homage to her by walking in her footsteps and you may just feel a deeper connection.

RELAY FOND STORIES TO OTHERS

Celebrate Mother’s Day by doing things to ensure Mom’s spirit and personality live on. Bring up fond stories of Mom with your spouse, friends or your own children. Help blur out the sadness of the loss by focusing on happy memories, such as those depicted in family photos.

PUT MOM FRONT AND CENTER

Take out a beautiful photograph of your mother and display it in a prime location in the house. That way you may feel like she is

sharing the day with you, and you can think about her fondly each time you see the photo.

ENJOY YOUR FAVORITE CHILDHOOD MEAL

Whether Mom was a master chef or couldn’t boil water, there’s bound to be a meal you associate with her. If that special meal is Chinese takeout or a slowcooked roast, enjoy it on Mother’s Day in her honor.

Coping with loss on Mother’s Day is seldom easy.

With time and by focusing on the positive, people who have lost their mothers can enjoy Mother’s Day.

GET TOGETHER WITH SIBLINGS

If you are lucky enough to have siblings, you can share the day together. This way you can remember the happy times, comfort each other and laugh together. If you don’t have siblings, consider a visit with an aunt or uncle or another close relative who may be feeling the loss, too.

Good Girl Radio and Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine have partnered to feature our cover person throughout 2020 in an on-camera interview with Good Girl Radio! Tune in the second Thursday of every month to hear more from these amazing people.

Station Blue Photography, St. Johns MI MAY 2020

13

COVER STORY

AFOURHEART OF MANY ROOMS SIBLINGS FIND LOVE, A HOME WITH HASLETT MOM

BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY

Every small child has wide-eyed dreams for the future.

Some dream of becoming a world-famous scientist who finds the cure for the incurable illness. Others dream of soaring to the dark void of the unknown as a fearless astronaut prepared to discover the truth in the unexplored. Yet others dream of being unexpectedly tapped to step into coveted and hallowed shoes as the fifth Beatle.

Haslett resident AmyJo Duckett’s young dreams, however, were much more down to earth. Sure, she had two dreams in her mind, but neither necessarily strained the bounds of obtainability. She wanted to be a teacher and she wanted to be a mother.

Yet, as with even the most starry and innocent ambitions, life creeps in to tether dreams back to the hard ground of reality.

The pursuit of one of Duckett’s dreams came easy. Born and raised in St. Johns, she earned a master’s degree in special education before launching a 15-year teaching career that primarily focused on specialneeds students.

She took a number — 844, something that caught her attention. Her husband had confided that repeated fours had been a thread throughout his life. He considered four to be lucky.

I knew right away that this was where I was supposed to be. There was such a need.”

“When my number was called about an hour later, I spoke to the woman and she immediately took me in back to the social workers. … I knew right away that this was where I was supposed to be,” Duckett said.

“There was such a need.”

The better part of the next year was spent completing the complex process: paperwork, educational training, family physicals, home inspections, background checks.

The other dream was more elusive.

Her first marriage dissolved before the consideration of starting a family blossomed. When she remarried, her husband, Tico, brought his own daughter into the bond, someone Duckett lovingly refers to as her “bonus daughter.”

She left the education field and began working alongside her husband at his two businesses.

“Shortly after that, we started talking about expanding our family,” Duckett said. “But when we tried to expand our family, we were met with infertility.”

The faith-based family took solace in their church, where many fellow congregants offered encouragement and shared stories of fostering and adoption.

“We just started talking about that option as a couple, ‘Should we do this?’” Duckett said.

In the midst of those talks, Duckett found herself driving down Cedar Street in Lansing one day. Before she realized, she was sitting in front of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services: “Something just told me to pull into the parking lot. I walked up to a security guard and asked where I needed to go to become a foster parent. He pointed me to the door, and I went in.”

14 MAY 2020

Station Blue Photography, St. Johns MI

“When we finally got our fostering license, we were told that we would probably be receiving a call within an hour. The need was that great,” Duckett explained. “Sure enough, within 20 minutes of getting our license, the phone rang.”

The first call wasn’t a success. The child was in a medically fragile condition, and the Ducketts realized they did not have the capacity to provide the proper amount of care. The second call resulted in the couple bringing home an 8-month-old with shaken baby syndrome. The baby was loved and doted over, but eventually taken in by the child’s maternal grandmother.

The ultimate goal of fostering is to see a child eventually reunited with his or her family.

Still, the pain of the loss took its toll, and the couple wanted some time to emotionally recuperate. In August 2016, Duckett was treating her father to a birthday dinner and a movie, but she just wanted to check her phone for messages before entering the theater.

COVER STORY

BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY

A lengthy text awaited her from a social worker.

Twins — a 22-month-old boy and girl — had been surrendered by their birth mother.

“Now we were trying to figure out if we could handle four,” Duckett said. “If we weren’t able to provide, we would have said no.”

“They wanted to know if we could get them in 45 minutes,” Duckett said. “I talked with my husband … should we say yes? Something was telling me that we needed to be a part of this.”

So three became four, and the official adoption process the Ducketts had started now brought another child into the protective fold. The four siblings’ adoption was finalized April 4, 2019.

Four — that repeating number again.

The twins came home with the Ducketts and were given the love and attention they deserved.

They settled into the new surroundings with ease; but just a few months later, Duckett received another call. This was about a 6-month-old — a little sister of the twins who had been moved throughout the foster system.

Was there a chance the siblings could be reunited under one roof ?

“Of course, we said yes. We wanted them all to be together. We brought her home two days after Christmas,” Duckett noted.

The holiday gift came with an additional surprise in 2017. The birth mother of the children was pregnant, and the child would be surrendered. A judge would want all four siblings to remain together, meaning if the Ducketts declined, it would risk losing the three children currently in the couple’s care that they loved.

“We adopted four kids on 4/4, and I was 44 years old at the time. … There are no mistakes.

Everything happens for a reason,” Duckett said.

The twins — Harmony and Mario — are now 5. Little sister Tru is 4 and Jayden is 2. For the 46-year-old Duckett, the journey to motherhood is a dream realized — although on a road less traveled. Yet it worked out for the best. In retrospect, she doesn’t think she was prepared for it as her younger self — the selfless giving, the unconditionality, the forgiveness required.

Age has provided the capacity to pour 100% of herself into the role of mom.

“What being a mom means to me is that you always have someone to love, you always have someone to share with,” she said. “I love sharing myself with my kids, and I love having my kids share themselves with me. Being a mom is definitely the best thing that has ever

The ticket AmyJo Duckett drew the day she visited the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to become a foster parent.

happened to me. It’s the most challenging, but it’s the most rewarding.”■ 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 2020

Station Blue Photography, St. Johns MI

15

16 MAY 2020

MAKE YOUR OWN SUMMER CAMP NATURE SCAVENGER HUNT Camp canceled? Here is a fun activity you can do at home (or close to home) that will keep the kids learning and having fun while they have an adventure!

Give the kids this list and give them an hour to find the following objects: A feather An acorn A berry A bug A heart-shaped rock A flower they think smells nice A leave from a maple tree A leave from an oak tree A stick perfect for roasting marshmallows Something that has their favorite color

May 22–Aug. 8

Pictured left to right:

Patty Barnas, Jennifer Marsh, Melanie Squires

Commercial Banking • Treasury Management fnbmichigan.com 330 Marshall St., Suite 200 | 517.319.8000

We're here for you all summer long, with a free online reading challenge that will inspire dreams and spark imaginations. Kids, teens and adults can earn prizes just by reading and doing fun activities at home.

Signup starts May 1 at cadl.org/summer.

MAY 2020

17

Learning the Cur ve:

Lansing Communit y College Responds in Crisis

By Andy Brent · Photog raphy by: Kevin Fowler

As Greater Lansing isolates to slow

“Our students and graduates help drive Lansing’s economy, staff our healthcare workforce and sustain our small businesses.”

online learning have LCC ready to

18 MAY 2020

will be allowed to opt into a pass/

develop, LCC has also advised

MAY 2020

19

dismiss stress through substantive distraction both lifts spirits and keeps the LCC community invested and engaged during social distancing.

Continuity of service at LCC extends to the LCC Help Desk, which is open and available to students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 crisis.

Available by phone at 517-483-5221 and by email at lcc1@lcc.edu, the LCC Help Desk’s normal operation hours keeps LCC supported. Students with questions about operations, the classes or registration for summer or fall can rest assured that help and guidance are still readily available from LCC expert staff.

At the outset of COVID-19 social distancing, LCC took the initiative to deploy relevant resources to those who could use them on the front lines. Beginning with LCC’s Health and Human Services Division (HHS), areas with elements of personal protective equipment (facemasks, gloves, gowns, etc.) donated these to Chelle Peterson, costume designer for LCC performing arts, created masks for frontline workers with fabric from this spring’s theater production costumes. These are but a few of the ways in which LCC has supported Lansing during COVID-19.

“While our mission is typically to educate, we know that donating these essential supplies will serve a higher mission of protecting health and saving lives.”

20 MAY 2020

“LCC exists to serve the members of this community,” said Elizabeth Burger, Associate Dean of LCC HHS. “So when we heard about the shortage of PPE for our area healthcare providers, we recognized a community need that we were uniquely positioned to address. While our mission is typically to educate, we know that donating these essential supplies will serve a higher mission of protecting health and saving lives.

“Our faculty and students are working hard to ensure they can continue teaching and learning from home,” Knight said. “One student from The Early College, nervous about a lack of hands-on learning during the shutdown, was thrilled when he realized his instructor had designed experiments that could be done at home. That is just one example of the amazing things our College has done to overcome.”

LCC’s efforts to adapt successfully during the COVID-19 crisis are not limited to support for students, faculty and staff. The Small Business Development Center (SBDC), a part of LCC Community Education and Workforce Development (CEWD), rushed to create a remote triage system to help regional small businesses navigate this crisis, thereby retaining as many employees as possible. SBDC’s attention to community resources ensures those suddenly stalled by a pandemic economy are not alone.

As LCC prepares to best serve its students during social distancing, the College is also preparing to serve new demographics as situations changed because of COVID-19. LCC is far ahead of other colleges and universities in its comprehensive virtual learning strategy, and expects those who intend to transfer, and from guest students, during the coming months. Fortunately, LCC’s

hearty preparations for online learning have the college strongly situated.

“The next six months will take all the creativity, energy and determination that we have as a college to overcome, educational and life plans of many people in the community have been disrupted. We at LCC stand of all those in Greater Lansing, both during this crisis and after.”

Knight added that academic disruptions are not alone in upsetting students’ plans. “Many students planned to work this summer, but now, they are sheltering in place. They, too, can count on LCC to help meet their educational and life goals.”

LCC is also prepared to assist those who have been furloughed or lost their job because of the COVID-19 shutdown. CEWD’s Business & Community Institute and Center for Workforce Transition have expanded offerings of all-online professional and operational skills courses.

These measures support members of our community who want to offset the quarantine’s challenges with opportunities in education and professional development.

“The people of the Greater Lansing community have supported LCC for more than 60 years,” Knight said. “Now, they need us to come through for them. We endeavor to provide the best educational experience possible for our students at all times; now especially, we want everyone in our community to know that LCC is there for them.”

STAYING CONNECTED THROUGH QUARANTINE

BY AMANDA FISCHER

Quarantining hasn’t been easy on anyone.

Abruptly stopping busy schedules to stay home with what may feel like too much to do and not enough to do all at once gets old fast, but what’s even more difficult is not being able to see loved ones — especially during holidays like Easter.

Luckily, we are a privileged, resourceful people. We have found ways to stay connected to family and continue to build cherished memories from at least 6 feet away.

Grand Ledge resident Cindy Zerbe said that she and her husband have been able to spend more time together.

“It’s just my husband and me at home; however, he’s swabbing patients for Sparrow, so he’s gone a large portion of each day. Even though these are challenging times, our schedules have changed drastically, and we’ve enjoyed spending a lot of time with each other,” Zerbe said.

Part of their routine has been making time to connect with friends and family.

“We have been keeping in touch with family, friends and colleagues through phone calls, Zoom calls, texts and notes,” she said. “I have a daily agenda to read virtually with my grandchildren. We have the same book and take turns reading.”

Like Zerbe, many others have used technology to virtually link with others.

Rose Davis of East Lansing said she has been home alone during the pandemic but stays in touch with her family through Facebook, WhatsApp, Zoom and phone calls. She even tunes into church services online.

Additionally, Houseparty has helped a lot of people in the capital area hang out. Holt resident Irene Peña said she has been using the app with her kids and grandkids.

“It’s great. You can see each person, and they have built-in games to play,” Peña said about using the Houseparty app. “We’ve been playing a game that’s a family version of Cards Against Humanity.”

Outside of virtually connecting, people have found creative ways to visit without violating the social distancing policies. Both Zerbe and Peña said they have had visits with loved ones when dropping off masks, groceries or helping sick relatives.

“We’re staying close to home and only going out for groceries for us and friends and family who can’t risk exposure,” Zerbe said. “We’ve had a few driveway visits from family, friends and students from my school that have made my heart happy.”

“When my mom was in the hospital and then rehab, I set it up with the Eaton Rapids Rehab nurses to open her window when I came to visit,” Peña said. “I was outside her window and she was inside her room by the window, and we still wore masks, but that was wonderful because it really helped her state of mind.” ■

Amanda Fischer is a communications specialist at M3 Group. She likes reading, watching movies and playing games in her free time.

MAY 2020

21

MISSION OF MERCY BORN FROM PERSONAL TRAGEDY

LISA BORODYCHUK OF THE OLIVIA KAY FOUNDATION

What is your job and job title?

I am the co-founder and vice president of the Olivia Kay Foundation headquartered in DeWitt.

Are you full time at the Olivia Kay Foundation?

My hours are dependent on the needs of the foundation, the children and the families. The foundation runs on 100% volunteers, so there are times when I do work a full-time schedule to keep up with the demands of our Pillow Project deliveries, basic administrative tasks and other mission-related tasks. I do not get paid for my hours because we are a nonprofit organization.

What does the Olivia Kay Foundation do?

My husband, Chad, and I created the foundation as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit so that we could help children who are living with severe multiple impairments and terminal illnesses from any disease to live a better quality life. The foundation’s mission is to support those children and their families by walking alongside them on their journey.

The Olivia Kay Foundation can help in many ways including providing information about living with severe multiple impairments; connecting families with appropriate resources for obtaining medical equipment or suitable transportation; providing financial gifts to support practical needs, such as gas cards to get to medical appointments; helping with respite care or provide caregivers with much-needed breaks; funding/organizing improvements for wheelchair accessibility; offering support groups; and other things.

Your daughter is the inspiration behind the foundation. Can you tell us about her?

In her short number of years here, our daughter, Olivia, inspired so many people, and we wanted to create an organization to honor her. I am so thankful that I got to be her mom. Olivia’s legacy will live on; we will always do what we can to help children who are living with illness.

Olivia fought a hard battle against Alexander disease leukodystrophy for eight years.

Doctors diagnosed her with this rare neurodegenerative disease at 2, and my husband and I were told she would only live for about a year. We were so blessed to be able to have eight years with her. She taught us so much in her short life. She endured pain that I don’t think many adults would have been able to handle.

Olivia never had the opportunity to talk, walk, crawl or eat. She suffered daily with seizures and had a G-tube (gastronomy tube) at the end of her life. She becane side-lying and bedridden, and then relied on airways clearance systems and BiPAP ventilation to assist her with her breathing. I watched her health decline slowly through the years — and as you can imagine, it is heartbreaking.

No parent should ever have to endure the loss of a child. And we built a handicapaccessible home, which later turned into a pediatric intensive-care-type environment to support our daughter’s care needs.

Olivia taught us to look beyond ourselves, how to receive for the good of others, how to turn

22 MAY 2020

anger and hurt into good works, how to bring people together from all walks of life to do the common good, how to be hold, and how to live a life full of grace and forgiveness on a daily basis.

All of these life lessons came from our beautiful 8 -year-old little girl who never spoke a word and who positively impacted our nation with her journey living with a terminal neurological disporder. In fact, this is what is inscribed on her headstone after she passed away in April 2017.

How did you transform the tragedy of losing your daughter into a mission to comfort others?

We started the foundation because, as parents to a sick child, we knew the feeling of being lost and hopeless. As a mother, you never expect to outlive your first-born child. I had a hard time coming to terms with it at first. I was depressed, bitter, angry, heartbroken and lost. Knowing our child was going to die, we tried very hard to work together as a team and to be positive to continue to help Olivia.

We were raising money for an out-of-stateorganization for a couple of years and realized that, with all of the hard work and effort going into it, we could have been doing something here locally to help children fighting illness here in the Greater Lansing community. Because we saw the value of meeting families who were going through similar circumstances, our goal was to create a platform to not only spread awareness for Olivia’s disease, but give these children and their families help and hope.

The challenges of raising a child with a severe illness can be so difficult in many ways, we wanted to make sure that we could do everything possible to help to pour into others and share our story with how we were able to get through our journey with our daughter.

What is the Pillow Project?

When we started our nationally known Pillow Project, we had no idea how valuable and impactful that would become. Pillows that we created at home for Olivia to help give her comfort and support while lying in bed would soon turn into a global initiative to help children who are admitted into hospitals and homebound children across the country and into Canada.

Since the inception of the Olivia Kay Foundation, the #pillowproject has been recognized by People Magazine and NBC news. The foundation just reached a big milestone of reaching 10,000 handmade pillows that have been donated to children.

All pillows are delivered and donated free of charge to 16 hospitals across Michigan and six hospitals in the states of Tennessee, Pennsylvania, New York, Minnesota, California and Georgia. They are all taking pillows on a regular basis to give to their little patients who are admitted at their facilities. ■ Kyle Dowling is an employee of M3 Group and is pursuing a writing degree at Michigan State University.

He enjoys fiction writing, video games and movies.

LOCAL LADY

BY KYLE DOWLING

RECIPE

BY CATHY BLATNIK

OVERNIGHT FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE INGREDIENTS FOR THE CASSEROLE:

FOR THE TOPPING:

11-ounce baguette loaf (enough for 10 cups of cubed bread)

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

2. In a small bowl, place the eggs, milk, cinnamon and

3 tablespoons light-brown sugar

nutmeg and beat until well-blended with a large spoon or whisk.

5 large eggs

DIRECTIONS

1 1/2 cups milk

1. Spray a 9-by-13-inch pan with

3. Pour the mixture over the bread cubes and pecans, making sure all of the bread cubes are covered evenly.

1 cup chopped pecans

1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

nonstick cooking spray. Slice the bread into 1-inch cubes and distribute evenly on the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top.

4. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and put in the fridge for a minimum of eight hours.

5. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375 F and uncover the casserole.

6. While the oven is preheating, put the melted butter and light-brown sugar in a small bowl. Mix well and then drizzle evenly over the casserole. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole looks set in the middle.

7. Turn off the oven and let the casserole sit in the oven for about 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and top with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup.

Makes 8-10 servings. ■ 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.”

To the Robinwood Landing staff for their unwavering efforts to ensure our residents are cared for and comforted throughout this crisis.

MAY 2020

23

COPING WITH AN

Empty Nest

COURTESY OF MCC

Watching kids grow through the years and sharing in their experiences can bring life to a household.

Mothers spend 18 years or more devoted to their children, and often their identities are defined as “Mom” above all else. As a result, it can be difficult to think ahead to life without kids in the home, especially when children are toddlers or school-age.

But children will someday grow up and move out, and the emotions that resonate when that day comes can be overwhelming.

Many parents feel a sense of sadness and loss when their last child leaves the family home. Referred to as “empty nest syndrome,” these feelings are not

officially labeled as a clinical mental health issue, but they are very real for many people. While parents encourage their children to become independent and branch out in their own lives, not every parent can cope with an empty nest. The parenting and family resource Verywell Family states that mothers with empty nest syndrome experience a deep void in their lives that oftentimes makes them feel a little lost.

Moms who are feeling the pangs of sadness due to an empty nest can employ some strategies to alleviate these feelings.

Reconnect with your partner.

Recall the years before you had children when it was only the two of you and devote time to making more memories as a couple. Plan date nights, go to sporting events, attend a summer concert, or pursue other shared interests.

24 MAY 2020

• Keep friends close. Use this opportunity to spend more time with close friends and put yourself first. Schedule all of those activities you may have temporarily put on hold while caring for children through the years.

• Make time for travel. New experiences can broaden anyone’s horizons. Travel as a couple or with a group of friends. Put the focus on fun and then share the experiences later on with your adult children.

• Redefine yourself. The experts at Psychology Today suggest finding new roles and interests to explore, or spend more time exploring existing hobbies. For example, if you’ve thought about doing community theater, do so now that you have some free time. Or maybe you’ve always had a goal of going back to school. Now may be the time to make that happen.

• Change things up at home. Turn children’s rooms into spaces you can use for your own interests. One can be a crafting room or a home office. Another may be a home theater. No longer labeling those rooms as the kids’ spaces can help the transition.

Empty nest syndrome is real, but there are many ways to move past the mixed emotions synonymous with this phenomenon. ■

KEEPING YOUR GROCERIES SAFE

BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY

When the Michigan stay-at-home order was extended until the end of April, the opportunity to take advantage of one of the few exceptions under the rule could seem like a big deal Grocery shopping has been a great way to get out of the house for some. For others, it has been an anxietyinducing experience.

Getting those groceries home and making sure they were not carrying any virus on them rattled even more nerves.

As of this writing, there is no indication that the governor’s urging to remain indoors to protect the welfare of the wider community has been eased this month. However, even if the state has reopened for business on a wide scale, it will still be critical to take steps of precaution to protect yourself and your family for the foreseeable future.

“Don’t let anyone get any false ideas that when we decide at a proper time when we’re going to be relaxing some of the restrictions, there’s no doubt you’re going to see cases. I would be so surprised if we didn’t see cases,” Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, told reporters at an April 10 press briefing of the coronavirus task force.

Photo by Morgan Hale

Wearing a mask and gloves may still be an important step to protect yourself from others when visiting populated areas like grocery stores since COVID-19 is most commonly transmitted between people.

Although many health experts indicate the risk of contracting COVID-19 from surfaces is fairly low, on its website, the World Health Organization states the coronavirus can remain alive on surfaces

up to several days. Because of that, some people might feel the need to disinfect what you brought home from the grocery store in an effort of increased security.

Here’s some tips for those who want to pursue this practice: •

Separate counter area for clean items and items not yet disinfected.

•

Lightly wipe down any packaging with a disinfecting wipe.

•

Do not use disinfectant on fruits and vegetables, but wash those items under running water.

•

Wash your hands when you have completed the task.

Finally, remember that even if restrictions are eased, there will still be a timeframe where the virus could spread. Continue to limit the number of trips needed to go to the store and continue to practice social distancing recommendations when you do.■

Peace of mind is . . . . . . A credit union that’s with you through every season of life.

To become a member, call 517.393.7710 or visit casecu.org today!

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Our service. Your success.

MAY 2020

25

MY COMMUNITY Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine

honors all of those who are putting themselves at risk so that we can stay home to stay safe.

Chris Mireles Jr - Rural Carrier - United States Postal Service - Holt Branch

From frontline health care workers like nurses, doctors, respiratory therapists, phlebotomists, pharmacy personnel, paramedics and more — there is no doubt medical professionals stepped up with great risk to themselves and their families. It’s hard to express just how much we value them.

We won’t forget what they’ve done for us.

Bre Vining, Mary Breier, the Holt Easter Bunny and Dr. David Hornak

Heather Jones, Sparrow Karolyn Wilkey

Allison Harney, McLaren Greater Lansing

Kimberly Kelly, McLaren Hospice Group

26 MAY 2020

Danielle Matson, rehab services director, Laurels of Carson City Jessica Boerma, Michigan Large Animals Associates

Dawn from Lansing Urgent Care WLNS-TV reporter Araceli Crescencio who anchors a short daily newscast on the coronavirus in Spanish for Spanishspeaking viewers

MY COMMUNITY

CARES Plenty of others stepped up from outside of the health care profession, and we are grateful for you.

Thank you to all those working in grocery stores, gas stations, the restaurants that are continuing to deliver, journalists and news teams, truck drivers, mail and package delivery, construction, heating and

Kyla Spitzley, Sparrow Nurse

cooling, and countless others — there hasn’t been a shortage of heroes in the Greater Lansing area.

CAWLM readers sent in photos of some heroes they want to personally thank, and we’re honored to share those photos here. ■

Cooper and Cedilla, Lansing Urgent Care

From the bottom of our hearts, and to everyone who stepped up, we sincerely thank you.

Twyonna Garza, clerk at United States Postal Service, Holt Branch

LFD Assistant Fire Chief Teresa Robinson

Mollie Brooks and Kara Freeman, LPD

Maggie Murphy, Henry Ford

Matt Wagner, Sam’s Club

Milica Bowman, Sparrow Ionia Scientist

Monika Moore, RN, Regency at Lansing West

Raven Halliburton, Urgent Care Medical receptionist

Sam Ybarra, RN, Sparrow Hospital

Pastor Brigitte Brown

Sam’s Club 4781 Manager Jodie Gruesbeck and Denzel Tinsley MAY 2020

27

MY COMMUNITY CARES

Sarah Swistak, Fox 47 WSYM

Shayanna Conley-Whitley

Shelley Jeffery, Mason Meijer Cashier

Sparrow staff and volunteers working at the collection drop off site

Violetta Becker

Jan Marrow, Sam’s Club 28 MAY 2020

Wendy Stollsteimer, Bath Meijer

WILX reporter, Christina Ford, interviews an employee of MSU Health Team

Michelle Reynaert, Sparrow

Kelli Jones, Sam’sClub

YOUR SUMMER READING STORY

BY MARISELA GARZA

Are you dreaming of 80-degree weather and the days you’ll spend relaxing in your lawn chair?

Me too. With spring already warming things up, it won’t be long before we’re kicking back to enjoy a gorgeous Michigan summer.

I hope you’ll join me in making reading an important part of your family’s summer. It’s always a great way to spend time together. Plus, with our school systems in flux, it’s more important than ever to keep the kiddos reading.

Reading together has many benefits for children, even those who can read independently. It’s easy to think, “OK, they’re good, we don’t need to read with them anymore.” But research shows that reading aloud not only improves comprehension, it increases confidence, even in older children. It also promotes vocabulary and opens channels of discussion.

So, while it’s great to encourage independent reading, consider adopting some of these read-together ideas at home: •

Read a classic title, taking turns and making sure to talk together about the story. Classics like Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White or Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls are great choices.

•

Start a family book club. The rules can be as simple or complex as you wish, but the basic idea is to assign family members to read and discuss different titles. For ideas visit readbrightly.com and enter “family book club” in the search box.

•

Play library at home. Encourage children to present a storytime or give a book talk recommending their favorite titles.

•

Read about a topic and then talk about it together. Find resources at the Michigan Electronic Library (mel.org/welcome).

Opposing Viewpoints in Context is excellent for helping kids develop critical thinking skills and generating conversations. The eBook K-8 Collection is also outstanding.

•

Go outside to read and talk together.

Visit a park, trail or your backyard to set up shop for reading in a relaxed environment.

•

Check out your library or favorite online bookstore for books that offer reading tips. I recommend My Weird Reading Tips by Dan Gutman, a favorite author among elementary school kids.

Finally, be sure to sign up your family for Capital Area District Libraries’ 2020 Summer Reading Challenge.

While we will not be offering the usual summer entertainment events, we are encouraging everyone to read for fun and to win prizes. This free challenge is already underway at cadl.org/summer.

Marisela Garza is a youth services specialist at Capital Area District Libraries and a co-host of the Reader’s Roundtable podcast.

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 MAY 2020

29

PROFESSIONAL GUIDE THAIS ROUSSEAU

SALLY BABBITT

Thais Rousseau is the collection development director for Capital Area District Libraries, a 13-branch system serving Ingham County and part of Eaton County. She holds a master’s degree in library and information science from Wayne State University and has 14 years of experience in public libraries. In her current role at CADL, she has expanded streaming video, developed an initiative to increase diverse materials and added a child-focused Library of Things, Jr. Rousseau has been instrumental in helping thousands of students access the library through CADL’s Student Success Initiative.

Sally Babbitt provides probate and estate planning services to help families navigate the legal issues of death and incapacity — including wills, trusts, estate and trust administration, guardians, conservators, and probate litigation.

Babbitt serves as the treasurer for the Resolution Services Center of Central Michigan, is a member of the Eaton County Bar and Ingham County Bar associations, and the probate and estate planning section of the State Bar of Michigan.

Babbitt also is co-chair for the probate and estate planning section of the Ingham County Bar Association. She speaks and publishes on estate and probate topics in addition to appearing monthly on Fox 47’s “Morning Blend.”

cadl.org (517) 367-6300 401 S. Capitol Ave. Lansing, MI 48933

sallybabbittlaw.com

(517) 507-3306 6005 W. St. Joseph Highway, Suite 302 Lansing, MI 48917

SUSAN MAPLES, M.D.

KEVIN LONDON, M.D.

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.

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.

Kevin London completed his undergraduate degree at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, and attended medical school at the Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, D.C. Before joining the Alliance team in 2013, London was a staff physician at St. Vincent Mercy in Toledo, Ohio. He was also an OB-GYN house physician at Huron Valley Sinai Hospital and served as the medical director at American Laser Skin Care. London believes in a partnership approach to women’s health care, working with his patients on the premise that integrative treatment decisions lead to optimal health. He is currently accepting new patients.

DrSusanMaples.com (517) 649-0353 2102 N. Aurelius Road, Suite 1 Holt, MI 48842

1560 Turf Lane East Lansing, MI 48823

1100 S. Cedar St. Mason, MI 48854

Liz has a genuine smile that connects with everyone she meets. That alone makes her approachable and easy to connect with: a small but important part of what makes a great account executive representing Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine, Greater Lansing Business Monthly and ing Magazine. Liz graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Business and a focus on sales and business marketing. With more than 10 years of sales and client management experience, she loves to help her clients grow their business.

Michelle Carpenter considers her passion for others, experience in the banking industry and the ability to become a trusted advisor to many a true gift. She has spent 26 years as a community banker for Dart Bank, and currently serves as the vice president of business services and investor relations.

Carpenter partners with local businesses, assisting them with the right business solutions for their unique situations, to help them proposer and grow. She also manages the shareholder affairs for the bank. Outside of the bank, Carpenter very active in several local organizations and enjoys giving back.

Carpenter is currently the treasurer and the membership coordinator for Holt Business Alliance.

30 MAY 2020

(517) 484-3000 South Campus

LIZ RENO-HAYES

MICHELLE CARPENTER

MCarpenter@dartbank.com dartbank.com (517) 699-3379 1020 Chalevoix Drive Grand Ledge, MI 48837

alliance-obgyn.com Main Campus

group

m3group.biz (517) 203-3333 221 W. Saginaw St. Lansing, MI 48933

Spo nso re d

LCC Overcomes Obstacles, Assists Students During Crisis

By Andy Brent Social distancing amidst the COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally changed the way Americans meet, work and learn. The long-term effects of extended quarantine raise questions about the safety of future gatherings, a fact that has left businesses and schools scrambling for solutions.

Colleges and universities face seemingly insurmountable challenges, unable to know or reasonably predict when normal, face-to-face classes might resume. This uncertainty caught many schools flat-footed, with some still trying to find ways to operate this summer and fall.

Lansing Community College (LCC) is ahead of the curve. Before the stay-at-home order was issued, LCC was distributing equipment and troubleshooting software in preparation for the possibility of long-term virtual learning. LCC’s commitment to innovation in this time of crisis has borne fruit; since March 24, LCC’s transition to online learning has kept most classes operational and students on track toward certification, graduation and/or program completion.

“LCC has transitioned to 100% online, and it’s working,” said LCC President Brent Knight. “For summer, we will be all online. The educational and life plans of many people in the community have been disrupted, and we stand ready to meet the needs of all students this summer, and in the fall.”

Summer registration at LCC opens April 20, and all online summer classes begin the week of June 1. Fall registration opens for all areas May 18.

LCC’s faculty are experts at online learning.

They have worked with technology staff to create a seamless transition to all online classes. Always highly regarded, LCC’s curriculum remains highly transferrable, and leads to certificates and degrees for good paying jobs in great careers.

With student support second to none in mid-Michigan, LCC’s committed Academic Success Coaches and advising staff connect students with necessary resources. Students are can also count on the LCC library, which has adjusted to continue loaning laptops to students during quarantine through the on-campus Public Safety Office.

Addressing the technological needs of students and faculty has been one of the biggest obstacles LCC has overcome.

To date, LCC has loaned more than 700 laptops to students during the COVID-19 crisis, and qualifying faculty have been equipped with Jetpack mobile hotspots. These measures, among others, will keep LCC operating with an eye toward the future “Many students planned to attend colleges and universities this summer and fall,” Knight said. “Many students planned to work. Now, as we all stay home and stay safe, students can rely on LCC to bridge whatever gap this virus has caused with convenient, all online registration and instruction, and education of the highest quality.”

LCC’s Community Education Youth Programs and Adult Enrichment have also answered the call to meet community needs during the COVID-19 crisis. Youth and adult program instructors have recorded and posted class sessions to the LCC Community Education Facebook page as part of the “Stay at home, stay safe, stay smart!” initiative, providing a muchneeded opportunity to engage and learn.

The Early College (TEC) at LCC is also finding distinction in the midst of crisis.

Elijah Fink, an LCC and TEC student, has created and donated N95 masks using a 3D printer Fink built himself as a school project. Fink’s ingenuity and commitment to finding positive solutions in crisis is only part the LCC community’s robust COVID -19 response. LCC has donated more than 60,000 gloves and 8,000 facemasks to first responders and health care workers to help address the overwhelming need for personal protective equipment (PPE).

“We are confident in our capacity to deliver excellent solutions for all students this summer,” Knight said. “In the fall, we do not yet know if we will be able to return to the classroom as normal, if we will still be all online, or if there will be some combination of the two. LCC’s faculty and staff have developed plans to surmount each challenge so far, and we will continue to adapt, overcome and deliver the most agile instruction available in Greater Lansing, or anywhere.”

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

MAY 2020

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