Honoring Our Heroes, Helpers, and Community
Hello my friends,
As we enter the season of gratitude, I’m filled with appreciation for the people and places that make our community so special. November’s Thankful Issue is dedicated to recognizing the individuals and organizations who enrich our lives, protect our safety, and embody the spirit of giving.
First and foremost, I’m thankful for my country and community. This month, we feature a powerful article on the importance of showing gratitude to our veterans. These brave men and women have sacrificed so much for our freedoms, and it is essential that we take care of them in return.
I’m also incredibly thankful for our local firefighters who risk their lives to keep us safe every day. In this issue, we explore their ongoing dedication and the unique challenges they face. Their selflessness reminds us all how lucky we are to have such strong, caring protectors in our midst.
In the spirit of gratitude, we also turn our attention to the incredible non-profits in our community who take care of those in need. In our “Banksgiving” article, we spotlight how First State Bank is sharing an opportunity for us get involved to make a difference. Your participation can have a profound impact on the lives of others.
On a personal note, I want to express my gratitude to Sue Everett of HealthMarkets Insurance. One of my greatest fears when starting my own business was losing the safety net of corporate benefits. Sue helped me navigate the complex world of insurance, found the perfect plan, and put my mind at ease. I’m so grateful for her guidance and expertise.
Most of all, I want to extend my deepest thanks to our advertisers. Their support not only makes this publication possible but also helps sustain our vibrant community. I encourage you to support them, just as they continue to support all of us.
As we reflect on this season of gratitude, I’d love to hear from you. What are you most thankful for this holiday season? Please share your thoughts with us and let’s celebrate the many blessings that unite us.
Wishing you all a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving!
With Gratitude,
KIMBERLY JANOWICZ,
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Kimberly Janowicz | kimberly.janowicz@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Marshall Zweig | marshall.zweig@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Amy Gillespie | agphotographyis@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Delia Jo Ramsey, Madeline LeBlanc, Celina Cisco, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Profiling
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Mount Clemens Lions Club held their annual Soapbox Derby raising over $20,000 benefitting local charities. 2: The Grand Prix Soapbox Derby had 56 cars and drivers this year. 3: The Soapbox Derby relies on over 50 volunteers each year, including the Mount Clemens Goodfellows. 4: The VFW Post 1794, pictured, and AMVETS Post 29 faced off in the final heat! 5: The Rotary presented Gabriella Noble a $2,000 Don Torine Scholarship to study Economics/Business at UofM. 6: The Rotary presented Konstantin Bezanovski a $2,000 Don Torine Scholarship to study Biology/Pre-Med at UofM. 7: President Bill Moore presented John Kozak the Hixon Award for his outstanding service and contributions.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
ROTARY CLUB OF MOUNT CLEMENS
VFW POST 1794
LIONS CLUB
LIONS CLUB
LIONS CLUB
THANKFUL. GRATEFUL. BLESSED. ‘TIS THE SEASON TO CELEBRATE OUR
VALUED PATIENTS
We would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank our patients, our extended family, for the privilege of providing quality eye care for generations.
2024 marks our 85th year of service to the patients of Mount Clemens and the tri-county areas. For decades, LaCroix Eye Care has been dedicated to ensuring that each patient receives the personalized attention necessary to achieve the optimal visual performance, eye health and overall wellness.
We are humbled and appreciative for the scores of patients and their families that have visited our practice over for over eight decades. Through three generations of optometrists, our team is passionate about improving the lives of patients by getting to know them as individuals first and then treating their vision challenges.
OUR PATIENTS ARE OUR PURPOSE!
We extend a very Happy Thanksgiving to all, especially our valued patients and their families. We are thankful, grateful and blessed because of you!
FINANCIAL ADVISOR COACH
Valuing Veterans
Veterans face challenges returning to civilian life. Here are ways we can show our support.
Veterans have selflessly served our country, often sacrificing their mental and physical health to protect our freedom. But once they return home, many face new battles— ones that often go unseen by the public. The transition from military life back to civilian life can be challenging.
Thanking veterans for their service shows respect; actively offering our support as a community can improve their lives.
“When we’re in the military, we have a purpose. When we leave, that purpose can sometimes feel lost,” says Congressman John James. A veteran of the Iraq War, James has worked on the bipartisan Veterans Entry to Apprenticeship Act, which helps remove barriers for veterans seeking good, well-paying jobs.
James gave Mount Clemens City Lifestyle three impactful ways our community can come together to support veterans. For veterans who need advocacy or assistance, James’s team, which includes fellow veterans, has already helped resolve over 300 cases and returned more than $250,000 to veterans. “I’m so grateful I’m in a position to help out,” James adds. “We’re here for you.” If you’re a veteran in need of extra support, reach out to James’s office: (586) 498-7122.
ARTICLE BY MARSHALL ZWEIG
Congressman John James
“Yes, there are some of us veterans who still continue to struggle from the scars of war. But we are warriors, and we can help serve our community the same way we served our country.”
— John James
“We need to ensure that veterans not only find good jobs but also regain a sense of purpose,” James says. “We are not disabled, even though we may have gone through physical, mental and emotional trauma. We are warriors who still have life to give, who still have service in our hearts. And we can help serve our community the same way we served our country.”
Dial 988 + 1 for the Veteran Crisis Line
“Too many veterans feel left behind and abandoned,” James says. “So many feel like they’re suffering alone.” He asks us to spread the word about the Veterans Crisis Line: just dial 988, and then press 1. Trained Veterans Crisis Line responders will answer 24/7. “This simple act,” James states, “can address veterans’ emotional and mental health needs—and save lives.” The crisis line is also available by chat ( VeteransCrisisLine.net) and text (838255).
Encourage Veterans to Register with the VA
“You’d be surprised how many veterans aren’t registered with the VA [the U.S. Office of Veterans Affairs],” James notes. “There are massive amounts of resources available that veterans aren’t availing themselves of—organizations and support systems that are committed to making sure you continue to live lives of purpose. The biggest no-brainer is making sure you’re registered—get the benefits you’ve earned.”
To register, visit VA.gov.
“Less than 1 percent of families in America have served or have a family member who has served,” James informs me. “So often, members of the community don’t understand what veterans have gone through. Sometimes veterans need to talk. Sometimes we need a hug, or space. The federal government can’t meet those needs the way neighbors and family members can. Just checking up on people, you can make a world of difference.”
PROFILING FIRE CHIEF DAN REYNOLDS AND THE HISTORIC MOUNT CLEMENS FIRE DEPARTMENT
Heroism, History and Heart
ARTICLE BY MARSHALL ZWEIG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY GILLESPIE
“
“The ability to move forward and do your job, in spite of being scared—that’s heroism.”
Firefighters and children with serious illnesses both have to be brave all the time. For the past five years, Mount Clemens Fire Department Chief Dan Reynolds supports those kids in their brave fights by becoming a clown.
“I volunteer for the Shrine Circus,” Dan tells me. “I’m a member of the Detroit Shriners, which provides medical treatment to really sick kids. Kids deserve somebody in this crazy world going to bat for them.”
Dan’s clowning raises funds for the 22 Shriner hospitals throughout the United States, so families with financial challenges never have to choose to not treat their child.
“My clown is actually a firefighter character,” Dan explains, “so it’s a good way to carry the fire safety message to the younger demographic.”
Dan attended an evening clown college in 1999, where he learned everything from how to apply makeup to magic and juggling. His clown’s name? Toejam.
“I would describe Toejam as kind and helpful—just not too bright,” Dan says lightheartedly. “His fire engine—Engine No. 1/4!—has just a bucket labeled ‘Wet Stuf.’”
Toejam appears in all 18 local Shrine Circus performances.
“It’s great when I talk with people I actually know and they don't recognize me,” Dan says. “That happens at least once at every circus. In one life role I'm very serious, and in the other I'm anything but serious.”
When he’s not making his community smile, Dan is doing the very serious business of running the Mount Clemens
Fire Department. The department has a proud history dating back to 1888, when fire engines were horse-drawn and steam-powered, and fire alarms were only on streetcorners.
The department built its own headquarters, the Mount Clemens Fire Department and Engine House at 65 Market Street, in 1909; they served the city from there for the next six decades. Now an office building, the 1909 facility has been historically preserved. The Mount Clemens Fire Station, the official name of the department's home since 1967, features a striking mural designed by local mother-artist team Angelika and Alana Wynes; the mural is part of the Detroit Institute of Arts’ Partners in Public Art initiative.
When Dan arrived, Mount Clemens hadn’t had a fire chief in over two decades.
“There are almost no fire departments in the United States that don't have an executive officer, the policy maker,” Dan informs me. “They did an admirable job for 20 years. Now I get to bring in modern innovations that help make us even safer.”
That includes tools like thermal imaging cameras, which allow firefighters to see through smoke, and portable battery-operated Jaws of Life units.
“One thing hasn’t changed,” Dan adds. “The commitment and bravery of those holding the title of Mount Clemens firefighter.”
The department has also partnered with Mount Clemens Kiwanis to distribute smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
“My personal goal is a working smoke detector on every floor of every house in Mount Clemens,” Dan declares.
When the Mount Clemens Fire Department began in 1888, they used horse-drawn, steam-powered fire engines.
“ ”
Photos courtesy Mount Clemens Public Library Archives
Though Dan's leading the department into the future, he makes sure I understand he isn’t doing it alone.
“There’s an entire fire department here that much, if not all, of the credit really should be directed to,” Dan notes. "Without them, I can’t make the positive changes I’m trying to make.”
That department includes Lieutenant Tony Kirkum, a third-generation Mount Clemens firefighter. Tony's father and grandfather were both volunteers, and both rose to the rank of Volunteer Chief. Kenneth D. Kirkum Memorial Park in Mount Clemens is named after Tony’s firefighter father. Following in his ancestors’ footsteps, Tony began as a MCFD volunteer in 1993 and has been a full-fledged Mount Clemens firefighter for 23 years.
After making mention of Tony, the veteran, Dan also points out relative newcomer Jacob Piper.
“He’s 24, been with us just over a year, came to us after four years in the Navy as a Master at Arms,” Dan informs me. “Jacob is the next generation of Mount Clemens firefighter. He still has much to learn and experience to gain, but he’ll be a leader in the department in the future. Always smiling, always eager to do the hardest jobs on every emergency incident he responds to. He is just the type of personality the fire department requires: strong character and great fortitude.”
Firefighting also requires heroism on a daily basis. I ask Dan to define heroism.
"The ability to move forward and do your job, in spite of being scared—that’s what heroism is,” Dan responds.
CONTINUED >
“There’s many times throughout my career where I've been nervous, I’ve been scared, but we were able to keep moving forward and get done what we needed to get done.”
I ask Dan when he was most scared on the job; he describes a Clinton Township fire that began with an explosion so intense, my publisher initially believed it was a terrorist attack.
“That was probably the most dangerous fire that I've seen in my career,” Dan recalls. “Projectiles were flying in all directions. There was a fatality a quarter of a mile away. So that speaks to the danger that not only the first responders, but the whole community was faced with. Shrapnel was found over two miles away. And when we say shrapnel, they were not pieces of metal. We're talking about steel canisters that flew two miles before they landed. Our firefighters operated at great personal risk.”
What was their strategy in taking on such a blaze?
“It became apparent almost immediately that the building would be a loss,” Dan replies. “It was really about not allowing it to spread. So the operational positioning was all defensive and that was still at great risk. They backed up as far as they could, but you’ve got to be close enough to apply water to the fire. Every second of that incident was dangerous.”
Amazingly, only one firefighter was injured.
“The incident commanders did an excellent job,” Dan notes. “Our ladder truck did take a beating, but little scars equal character.”
I’ve told Dan this is our ‘thankful’ issue, so I close by asking what he’s thankful for.
“I am the luckiest guy on earth.” Dan is beaming. “I got to do the job that I've wanted to do since I was five years old. I wish that I could become a young man again, so that I could do the whole thing over from day one. Being a firefighter has truly been a blessing. It's not the easiest job in the world at times, and I'm certainly not doing it for the money, because you'll never get rich doing this. But my level of personal satisfaction and fulfillment is off the charts. I just know that this is why I'm on the planet, to be honest with you.”
I ask Dan what he means by ‘this;’ he means both firefighting and clowning.
"I'm in service to all of humanity,” Dan says.
To illustrate, Dan tells me about Toejam giving a uniquely challenged child a balloon; the story leaves us both in tears. After he collects himself, Chief Reynolds finishes: “I want my story to be that I was good to people. I helped. We're only here for a temporary time, brother, so make it worth it, right?”
From left to right : Firefighter Nathan Townsend, Fire Inspector Josh Ringstad, Captain Nick Candela, Firefighter Noah Lesner, and Fire Chief Dan Reynolds.
Both at work and outside of work: I want to be remembered as somebody who stood up and did the right thing.
GRATITUDE
ACTION in
EVERY GIVING SEASON, FIRST STATE BANK’S BANKSGIVING SUPPORTS LOCAL NONPROFITS
ARTICLE BY MARSHALL ZWEIG
It’s November in Mount Clemens—time once again for Banksgiving.
No, that’s not a typo. Inspired by its 100th anniversary, First State Bank wanted to express its gratitude to the community more intentionally. The result: Banksgiving, which elevates often-overlooked nonprofits that are making a real difference in the lives of our locals.
Gianna House
Each year, community members help select five nonprofits. Four receive a $5,000 First State Bank donation; one grand prize winner receives $10,000. Each organization also gains visibility through First State’s promotional efforts, which enhances their ability to impact the community.
Last year’s winners:
• More Than a Bus delivers food, hygiene items, and clothing to Metro Detroit’s underserved citizens, driving their bus into areas of poverty and homelessness
• Gianna House supplies housing, education and life skills to at-risk pregnant women and mothers, helping them transition to independence
• Family Youth Interventions gives shelter and support for homeless and at-risk youth ages 12-17; their core mission is to reunify youths with their families by improving communication
• Urban Seed has a vision of creating a network of urban gardens; their Giving Garden grows donation produce
• Grand prize winner Homes for Heroic Veterans provides transitional housing for homeless veterans while connecting them with vital VA support and services.
Banksgiving has quickly blossomed into a vibrant platform for community engagement: its first year saw an astonishing 400 nominations from passionate locals. Many of these nonprofits were unfamiliar even to the bank’s own staff. To raise awareness, First State also developed the Community Caring Guide, a comprehensive resource that shines a light on these vital organizations.
“Banksgiving’s organizations make me feel like a witness to unwavering greatness.” —Amy Persyn, FSB CMO
As Banksgiving approaches, First State Bank invites everyone to be a part of the celebration. If you want to amplify the gratitude, cast your vote for the nonprofit you believe most deserves a Banksgiving financial boost from First State Bank. The winners will be announced on December 3—which, not coincidentally, is GivingTuesday (GivingTuesday.org).
To cast your vote from November 11-22, visit fsb.bank/banksgiving
Homes for Heroic Veterans
Urban Seed
THE PERFECT PLAN FOR SENIORS
ARTICLE BY MARSHALL ZWEIG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY GILLESPIE
Sue Everett’s life was changed by a simple yet impactful gesture: a personalized note she received from HeathMarkets sales leader Kurt Delfin, after Sue left her previous career.
“He said, ‘Your resume looks great. At least come talk to me.’ 15 years later, I have an assistant, a storefront, a huge client base—and Kurt’s still my sales leader!”
The personal touch is why Sue became a HealthMarkets insurance agent; she puts her personal touch into every client interaction. “I spend two hours every Sunday doing thank-you
notes,” she says. “And outside of my Florida clients, I only do face-to-face meetings.”
Sue’s biggest client segment is Medicare: “In this country, almost 12,000 people a day turn 65," Sue informs me. She’s hyper-focused on protecting her clients from unethical sales tactics. “There’s a lot of misinformation,” she says. “I do an entire fact-finding process before we even start to pick a plan.” She also offers affordable supplemental indemnity plans which, incredibly, pay clients in cash when injury or illness strike.
Sue Everett helps her many Medicare clients navigate the confusion, avoid scams, and get in the right plan.
This being our gratitude issue, Sue shares her appreciation for her Agent Assistant, Debbie Nagle. “I was really good at what I did, but Debbie’s better than me,” Sue admits with a smile. “I don’t know what I’d do without her.” Sue starts every day at 6:00 a.m., meditating with crystals; she even uses them with her clients. “They love them,” she notes. Sue intentionally creates a peaceful environment, so her clients feel safe—and it works: “Even though we can’t book open-enrollment appointments until October 1,” Sue notes, “they start calling in the summer: ‘When can we come see you?’ I love that.”
Sue’s storefront is at 21370 Cass Avenue in Clinton Township; walk-ins are welcome.
SUE’S OPEN-ENROLLMENT TIPS FOR MEDICARE BENEFICIARIES AND ACA CLIENTS
• Open Enrollment for Medicare runs through December 7; ACA Open Enrollment runs from November 1 to January 15
• Sue’s consultations are free, so take advantage: “It sounds corny, but I’m here to help.”
• Be careful trusting promises from healthcare telemarketers: “They’ll change your plans mid-year without fact -finding, they’ll say you can stay with your current agent—often they’re not being honest.”
• Come prepared with all your questions. “Medicare is confusing. There’s no such thing as a stupid question.”
• Call Debbie at (586) 424-6464 to schedule an appointment: “Come grab a cup of coffee and let’s make sure you’re in the right plan. We have great coffee!”
Daily Gratitude Journal Prompts
ARTICLE BY DELIA JO RAMSEY
The art of gratitude can be healing well beyond the month of November, but this is a great time of year to get in the true mindset of gratefulness. To aid in your endeavors, check out these 30 daily gratitude journal prompts and stick to them until it feels natural.
1. Five things that make you happy instantly:
2. Did you get any pleasant surprises today?
3. Did you do any acts of kindness today?
4. What's something big or small you can do for those less fortunate than yourself?
5. Five personality traits you're grateful for:
6. Favorite song and how does it make you feel?
7. One small step you can take toward overcoming a challenge you currently face:
8. List something good that caught your attention today.
9. What nice thing did another person do for you this week?
10. What's something you did for another person this week?
11. Three things you own that make your life easier:
12. How can you turn something that makes you angry into something more pleasant?
13. Think of five people who irritate you or you have trouble getting along with. Name three positive qualities about them.
14. What are you most thankful for in your life?
15. Name three of your significant accomplishments.
16. Most stunning place you’ve ever visited:
17. Think about the personalities and unique qualities of someone you admire. Which qualities of them do you want to see in yourself, too?
18. What's your favorite holiday and why?
19. What friends are you most grateful for having in your life?
20. What basic daily necessities are you thankful for today?
21. What are you grateful for in your career?
22. Focus on your five senses and write down how you can make them more active.
23. Three elements of nature you're most grateful for:
24. Three things you love about your town:
25. List three struggles you experienced and overcame in your life. What did you do to overcome them, and who helped you through them?
26. What meals do you enjoy most?
27. Something you saw this week that melted your heart:
28. A time when someone went out of their way to support you:
29. A happy memory from childhood:
30. Make a list of five places you'd like to visit and consider visiting at least one very soon.
THE PERFECT FALL TREAT
ACORN DONUT HOLES
ARTICLE BY MADELINE LEBLANC
As the vibrant colors of summer slowly yield to the warm and earthy hues of autumn, there’s a distinct charm in the air at the arrival of fall. It’s a season filled with the crisp rustling of leaves, cozy sweaters, and the promise of pumpkin-spiced everything. What better way to embrace the changing seasons than by indulging in a delightful treat that captures the essence of both summer’s sweetness and fall’s rich flavors?
My recipe for “Acorn Donut Holes” combines the light, airy sweetness of summer donuts with the warm, comforting tones of fall. Grab your ingredients and let’s get started!
Ingredients:
• Donut holes
• Melting chocolates
• Fall sprinkles
• Pretzels
Instructions:
1. Pour your fall sprinkles into a small bowl for dipping. Lay wax paper down.
2. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the melting chocolates in the microwave, about 15-20 seconds. Carefully watch to ensure they don’t burn.
3. Dip the top of each donut hole into the melted chocolate, covering about halfway down the donut.
4. After dipping, immediately dip the chocolate-covered portion of the donut hole into the bowl of sprinkles, coating it with the fall sprinkles.
5. Insert a pretzel into the top of the “acorn” to create the acorn stem.
6. Carefully place the decorated acorn donut holes on the wax paper to let them cool and allow the chocolate to set.
7. Once the chocolate has hardened, your acorn donut holes are ready to enjoy!
These delightful treats are perfect for fall and make for a fun and tasty dessert or snack. Enjoy!
HOW TO: seasonal home scents
ARTICLE BY CELENA CISCO
Fall essential oil combinations provide a warm and cozy scent while also protecting those from sickness prevalent in the colder season. Follow these oil combinations to create your own seasonal scent.
immune boost
DIRECTIONS :
Combine the following essential oils with a base oil (coconut oil).
M
SWEET
B E W E L L N E S S
INGREDIENTS:
• Cinnamon: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Clove: Antibacterial; Antiseptic
• Lemon: Uplifts, Kills Bacteria; Reduces Inflammation
• Oregano: Antimicrobial; Antioxidant
• Eucalyptus: Decongestant and Provides Healing
HOW TO USE:
Apply to wrists or feet. Do not use it on your face.
home defender
DIRECTIONS:
Combine the following essential oils.
INGREDIENTS:
• Orange: Reduces Stress; Antimicrobial
• Eucalyptus: Decongestant; Provides Healing
• Cinnamon: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Black Pepper: Supports the Nervous System
• Clove: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Rosemary: Reduces Stress; Helps with Respiratory fatigue
HOW TO USE:
Fill the diffuser with water and apply the desired amount of drops.
giving dip -
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD I PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
fig & honey brie
The perfect cheesy fall dip that is both savory and sweet. The chopped pecans add a subtle crunch that makes this irresistible.
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions: Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
garlic herb feta dip
This savory dip is quick and easy to assemble and is perfect to serve with fresh veggies or crackers of any kind.
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
loaded hummus
This crowd-pleaser can be made in advance for easy entertaining.
hummus ingredients:
• 2 cans of garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained
• Juice from one lemon (or ¼ cup)
• 1/3 cup water
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
toppings:
• Olives
• Cherry tomatoes
• Chickpeas
• Feta cheese
• Red onion
• Fresh Parsley
directions:
In a blender, add all of the ingredients except the olive oil and the toppings. Blend until smooth. Spread Hummus onto a plate or platter and top with chopped toppings. Serve with fresh bell peppers, zucchini, crackers and pita bread.
Nothing screams fall quite like the flavor of pumpkin. This lightly sweet dip takes just a few minutes to make and is perfect for any fall get-together.
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions:
Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip
FOR YOUR TRUST
As we reflect on the season of gratitude, we want to thank our clients for the trust you’ve shown throughout the year. This Thanksgiving, we wish you continued good health, mental wellness, and moments of peace. Together, we can navigate life’s challenges and celebrate the small victories
Thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey to well-being.
askpsychologicalservices.com (248) 733-3907 85 Macomb Place, #102 Mount Clemens, MI 48043
Dr. Karen Groth | Samantha Blair Holman | Arianna Zimmerman
BUILD ROCK SOLID KIDS
If you’re a parent who wants your child to have:
• rock solid confidence
• lifelong self-discipline
• top level fitness,
• and be safe from bullying and peer pressure
…Karate has helped Frankie gain more confidence in himself. It
Sara E. Sumbera, Mother of Frankie Sumbera, Black Belt Graduate
NOVEMBER 2024
NOVEMBER 13TH
Pumpkin Pie Garland Craft at Mount Clemens Library
Mount Clemens Public Library, 150 Cass Avenue, Mount Clemens, MI | 2:00 PM
Get into the Thanksgiving spirit with a fun, hands-on craft! Join us to create your own festive Pumpkin Pie Garland and add a cozy touch to your space. All materials provided. Let’s craft some holiday cheer! Register for this free event at mtclib.org or call (586) 469-6200.
NOVEMBER 19TH THROUGH DECEMBER 22ND
Holiday Market Shopping Experience at the Anton Art Center
The Anton Art Center, 125 Macomb Place, Mount Clemens, MI
Featuring 100+ local and regional artists at the annual Holiday Market shopping experience. Stop in and see a variety of arts and craft items: holiday decor, gifts, fine art, jewelry, fiber and accessories, and more! Artists benefit directly from the sales, making this an important event for the Anton Art Center, as well as participating artists. Visit theartcenter.org/holiday-market for hours.
NOVEMBER 22ND
Mount Clemens
Christmas Open House and Tree Lighting
Fountain Stage, Macomb Place Street, Downtown Mount Clemens | 5:00 PM
Join us for the Christmas Open House in downtown Mount Clemens! Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive for the tree lighting ceremony, bringing festive cheer as the twinkling holiday lights brighten
Green WI$E, powered by First State Bank, is a secure mobile app that allows you to collect and view all your financial accounts in one place and gain access to personal finance tools.
Green WI$E supports your financial wellness by allowing you to view your whole financial picture and take action:
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*While the app is a free service; your phone provider may charge for data usage.
downtown. Shop local stores, then enjoy cocktails and dinner at our restaurants. Start your holiday season in style! Visit downtownmountclemens.org/events for details.
NOVEMBER 23RD
Mount Clemens
Santa Parade
Main Street, Downtown Mount Clemens | 10:00 AM
Join us for the 49th Annual Mount Clemens Santa Parade on Main Street at 10:00 AM. Enjoy marching bands, floats, costumed characters, and a special appearance from Santa and Mrs. Claus! Grab a coffee, stay for brunch, and shop local stores for holiday gifts after the parade. Visit mountclemenssantaparade.com for details.
NOVEMBER 23RD
Bottle Drive Benefitting Neighbors United: Helping Firefighters Fighting Cancer
Romanelli’s International Martial Arts, 43990 N Gratiot Ave, Clinton Twp, MI | 10:00 AM
Romanelli’s International Martial Arts is hosting a bottle/can drive supporting Neighbors United, benefiting firefighters battling cancer. Firefighters are 25% more likely to develop cancer than other professions. Please support those who have selflessly given so much to their communities. 100% of proceeds aid firefighters in need. Drop off from 10 AM to 5 PM. Call (586) 466-3682 or visit walkforthered.org
NOVEMBER 30TH
Small Business Saturday
Mount Clemens, MI | 10:00 AM
This Small Business Saturday, November 30th, skip the Black Friday frenzy and support local shops in downtown Mount Clemens! Find the perfect gifts for everyone—chocolates, wine, jewelry, art, antiques, records, clothes, and more. Treat yourself or someone you love with gift cards for local restaurants and spa services. Shop small and make a big impact!
