Every child in foster care deserves to have a CASA volunteer to advocate for them. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we run completely off of grants and donations. We do not charge for our services. You can help us in this quest by providing critical financial support.
Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteers are needed now more than ever. For more information please contact Heather Upton by calling (5171797-6020 or email director@hillsdalecasa.org #changeachildsstory
Please thank our ADVERTISERS
Without their continued commitment & support, this publication would not be possible.
3D/PT - 23
Airbnb Wildlife Sanctuary
Rentals - 31
Aqua Flow - 31
Bailey, Hodshire & Company P.C. - 55
Baxter Lawn & Snow - 19
Becker & Scrivens Concrete - 17
Hillsdale Community Library - 16
Hillsdale County
Community Foundation - 13
Hillsdalle College Halter
Cottages - 33
Hillsdale County Veterans Affairs - 31
Hillsdale Hospital - 2
Simply Hers Craft Bazaar - 25
Shemel’s Carpet & Interiors - 29
Small Town Girl Concessions & Catering - 55
Stillwell Ford Service - 3
The Well - 23
The Wellbeing Cafe - 23
Heffernan Soft Water Systems
by Elyse Apel
The Watts family was excited to become a part of the Hillsdale community after buying Heffernan Soft Water Systems from the long-time owners, the Heffernan family. “We have known the Heffernans for years,” says Lindsay Watts, whose family bought the business.
Bill Heffernan recently passed away and is remembered dearly by all in the community, including the Watts family.
“We were so sad to hear of Mr. Heffernan’s passing,” Lindsay says. “Our goal is to continue his legacy in the community by continuing to provide everyone with great services and great products, just as he did.”
The Watts family remains committed to the Heffernan Soft Water Systems promise to save “the world’s water, one tap at a time.”
“The Heffernan family have just done so much for so many different organizations in the community and we plan to continue that beautiful legacy,” Lindsay says.
The Watts family has owned Tri-County Water for three generations, so it was an exciting opportunity to expand into Hillsdale, Lindsay says.
“Being in the same industry, we knew them from meetings and just generally working in close vicinity for so long,” she explains. “We all had a mutual respect for each other. And so when they decided it was time to retire, it was just a good fit for us.”
For the Watts, providing great water has always
been a family endeavor. Originally started by Darwin Watts in Leslie, Michigan, the company is now owned by his third generation grandsons, Daniel and David Watts.
“My husband’s grandpa started Tri-County Water back in the ‘60s, then his dad took over. Now, he’s the third generation to run it, and is doing that along with his brother. So, their family has been doing it forever,” Lindsay says. Heffernan Soft Water Systems and Tri-County Water both sell the same products and offer the same services, so the merging of the two companies has been very natural.
“The transition worked out so well, especially since we had known them for many, many years,” Lindsay says.
The water systems they offer are proudly and safely “made in the USA.” Both companies also have the same mission: to provide customers with better water through treatment expertise and a toptier customer service experience.
The Watts family took over operations at Heffernan Soft Water
Systems last fall at the end of October and have kept on all the same staff and services as previously offered. Lindsay says the community has been very supportive and understanding with the few operational changes they did decide to make.
“The community response has been great. The people are so kind,” she says. ”Everybody’s been really understanding of the few things that we changed, like our software.”
Heffernan Soft Water Systems offers full-service water treatment for both homes and businesses. Services include consultations about water problems like hard water buildup, iron and mineral stains, bad-tasting or contaminated water, and more. It also offers drinking water systems and service of water softeners and conditioners.
Customers can receive a free water test by booking an appointment which allows them to analyze the safety and purity of their water quality. This test also helps identify each household’s exact water issue or issues correctly and choose a solution that best fits each unique situation.
“Our main goal is just to continue to provide a really great service,” Lindsay says. She adds that high standards were a priority for the Heffernan family and that her family plans to continue to meet those standards while also providing continuity for their employees and in the products and services they offer.
“The customers are used to great service and we are happy to always meet the high expectations of the community,” she says. “ We’ve made a lot of really good new friends, business owners who have reached out and welcomed us to the community, which has been really nice. Our main goal is just to continue to provide a really great service.”
There’s something unique to working in a family business and Lindsay says they are trying to both continue that atmosphere in Heffernan Soft Water Systems and share that with their employees as well.
“It’s just been great to work with family. It’s always fun to work with your family, but it’s really good, too, because everybody really cares about each other,” she explains. “It really helps with the family atmosphere and values that we are trying to cultivate in all the workers.”
Heffernan Soft Water Systems and Tri-County Water services Mid, West, and South Michigan and Northeastern Indiana counties. While Heffernan is centered in the Hillsdale community, Tri-County Water provides services in 20 different Michigan and Indiana counties, including Branch, Jackson, Kalamazoo, and many more. For a full list, visit tricountywater.com.
Linsday says they are excited to offer not only sales, installation, maintenance, and repair services, but also routine maintenance services like help with changing and replacing existing filters as well as deliver bottled water and water softener salt directly to homes or businesses.
“We offer a full-range of services to our customers,” she says.
For more information about Heffernan Soft Water Systems, visit heffernansoftwater.com or call (517) 955-2775.
Handmade Treasures
November
December
HOUSE
If your property needs a face-lift, look no further than Fry's Painting and Restoration. We provide a variety of residential and commercial property improvement solutions in the Hillsdale, MI area. From painting to refinishing, we can do it all with the greatest of ease. Call our locally owned restoration and painting company today to get started. You’ll be glad that you did.
Hillsdale County Community Foundation
Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness (CAPA)
Current Church Food Pantry
Domestic Harmony
Early Pregnancy Loss Association (EPLA)
First Church of Christ Waldron Food Pantry
Greater Hillsdale Humane Society
Great Start Collaborative of Hillsdale County
Helping Hands Pregnancy Resource Center
Hillsdale CASA, Inc.
Hillsdale Community Theatre (The Sauk)
Hillsdale County Senior Services Center, Inc.
Hillsdale Hospital
Hospice of Hillsdale County
Kimball Camp Outdoor Center
Love, INC of Hillsdale County
Kings Kupboard (Trinity Lutheran Church)
St. Peter’s Free Clinic, Inc.
The Salvation Army
How to do a Blowout at Home?
A Step-by-step Tutorial
Let’s see how you can do this at home in 4 simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare Your Hair
• Before you start the blow-drying session, it’s essential to start with a clean canvas. Wash your hair with a shampoo and conditioner that suits your hair type. This will remove dirt, oil, and product buildup, giving your hair a fresh start.
• After washing, gently towel-dry your hair to remove excess moisture. Avoid rubbing vigorously, as this can cause frizz and damage.
• The next important step is rough drying. For curly or wavy hair, rough dry until it’s 30-40% dry. This helps to stretch out your curls and waves, making them easier to style. For straight hair, rough dry until it’s 60-80% dry. This reduces blow-drying time.
Step 2: Section and Blow-Dry
• To get a professional-looking at-home blowout, it’s important to work in sections. Divide your hair into four main sections: two at the front and two at the back. Secure each section with clips or anything that you like.
• Now, let’s get to the blow-drying. Start with the bottom section. Use a round brush to pull the hair taut while directing the airflow down the hair shaft. This will help smooth the hair and create shine.
• As you work your way up to the top sections, you can add volume by round-brushing the hair upwards and forward. The size of the round brush you use will depend on your desired volume and curl. A smaller brush is ideal for short hair, while a larger brush is better for long hair.
Step 3: Optional: Set with Rollers
• For an even more polished blowout look, you can set your hair with rollers.
• After blow-drying each section, wrap it around a roller and secure it in place. Rollers help to set the style and add extra volume to your hair.
• Allow your hair to cool completely in the rollers before removing them.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
• Once your hair is completely dry, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Apply a lightweight serum to smooth any flyaways and add shine. Focus on the ends of your hair to avoid weighing down the roots.
• For added volume and hold, consider using a volumizing spray. Spray it lightly to the roots and mid-lengths of your hair.
• And there you have it! With a little practice, you can achieve a salon-quality blowout right at home. So grab your blow dryer, round brush, and favorite hair products, and get ready to transform your hair.
How Long Should a Blowout Last?
Now you must be wondering how long should a blowout last if your salon blowouts last forever. Well, the secret lies in a few key factors. Let’s dive in!
Factors Affecting Longevity
1. Hair Type:
If you’ve got straight hair, you are one lucky duck! Blowouts manage to hold better on straight hair. But don’t fret, curly-haired folks. With the right products and techniques, you can extend your blowout too.
2. Weather Conditions:
Humidity is a blowout’s kryptonite. It’s like a villain stalking in the shadows, ready to pounce and ruin your carefully crafted style. So, keep an eye on the weather forecast and adjust your routine accordingly.
3. Products Used:
Think of products as your blowout’s secret weapon. A heat protectant, volumizer, and anti-humidity spray can work wonders in prolonging your style.
4. Hair Care Routine:
Even your sleep habits can affect the lifespan of your blowout. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can help prevent frizz and maintain your style. Also, try to avoid touching or restyling your hair too much.
General Longevity:
With proper care and the right products, you can expect your at-home blowout to last between 4-6 days. But don’t worry if it starts to lose its shine. A few drops of hair oil, a little dry shampoo, and a quick touch-up can help you maintain the style without having to redo it completely. So, there you have it! Now with this information, you can confidently tackle your next at-home blowout and enjoy a salon-like quality style that lasts.
How Often Should You Get a Blowout on Natural Hair?
How often should you get a blowout on natural hair? The answer depends on your hair’s health. If your hair locks are healthy and strong, you can safely indulge in a weekly blowout. Just be sure to follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to keep your hair hydrated and nourished. However, if your hair is delicate or damaged, it’s best to space out blowouts once a month. Excessive exposure to heat can further weaken your hair, so listen to your locks and adjust your blowout routine accordingly. Tip: Alternate heat-free styles to give your hair a break. Braids, twists, and protective styles can help your hair retain moisture and prevent breakage.
Conclusion
Performing a salon-like quality blowout at home is easier than you might think. With the right tools, techniques, and a little practice, you can create a flawless look that’s both stylish and budget friendly. So, ditch the expensive salon appointments and unlock your inner hairstylist with our at-home blowout guide. Remember, the key to a great blowout lies in the details, so pay attention to the tips and tricks we’ve shared. Happy experimenting & styling!
haiirology.com
For Your
at the Hillsdale Community Library! 11 East Bacon St. Hillsdale, MI 49242 hillsdale-library.org 517-437-6470
Thousands of Books Computers, Printing, Faxing InterLibrary Loaning eBooks & eAudiobooks Programs, Notarizing, and So. Much. More! We serve residents of Hillsdale City and Jefferson & Hillsdale Township
• Birth Indexes – 1866-1902 • Cemetery Records • Census Indexes
• Church Records • City and County Directories • County Histories
• Plat Maps • Death Indexes – 1867-2002 • Family Histories
• Military Records • Marriage Indexes – 1835-2000
• Michigan Pioneer Records • Newspapers • Obituaries
• High School Yearbooks • Surname Card Files
• Information on surrounding counties
The
EDG E
By Willie Smith
Hers Magazine
No drama here, but this could possibly be my very last column! I started writing Over the Edge for the very first Simply Hers magazine in the 2010 November-December issue. It’s been a long time, but something has come up that makes it nearly impossible to continue. This “something” is enough to put me right over the edge.
I have always kept track of the columns I write. I’ve numbered them from #1 to this one which is #84. To me that’s a lot of columns. I not only number them, I name them so I have a general idea what each column was about. I hate to repeat myself and so far, I don’t believe I have. There is so much going on in each of our lives that we could probably, every one of us, write a column every day of the year about a completely different matter.
That “something” I mentioned above is my computer. It decided to take a leave of absence without my knowledge and has taken each and every one of my columns with it! What in the world!? I’ve backed up a lot of the columns on a flash drive, but you know how that goes, sometimes you forget and I’ve forgotten to back up the last 10-20 columns. I don’t know for sure because I can’t find the flash drive. Well, dang! What is going on with me, my computer and/ or my flash drive? And again, I say even more emphatically, DANG!
The only way I know this is column #84 is because I checked my sent emails to Simply Hers and the last column sent was #83, thus here, as stated, is #84. I checked to see how far back my sent emails go and it’s into 2016. While that’s
a long time ago, it certainly isn’t back to 2010 when I started. I have six years’ worth of columns to account for. This may not be a problem for you, but it is a problem for me! I basically have two choices. I can either keep writing and hope I don’t repeat a column theme, thus boring and/ or irritating you folks, or I can give it all up, say I had a good run and join my computer on its leave of absence. At least I’m good enough to give you notice, unlike my computer which gave me no notice whatsoever. None of you can say I stopped writing about my everyday drama without your knowledge.
I have to say there’s certainly a draw to making this the last Over the Edge column. The older I get, the more I’m into making my life as dramafree as possible. No drama, no column, no need to buy a new computer. Right now I’m getting by with my phone which is great, but I’m so used to two-hand typing as opposed to one finger or thumb typing that I just can’t make it work on my phone. I started out saying this was a no drama situation, but I may have been wrong. Reading back over this it sounds like a lot more drama than you may have thought possible considering the situation. If I get a new computer and keep writing for Simply Hers, you might just have to learn to appreciate “something” that could happen causing drama in my world, be it an absent without notice computer or any number of things such as what’s happened in the last 83 columns. I’m telling you, it’s enough to put me right over the edge.
Over
Simply
FALL CLEAN-UP
Waste has a way of piling up over time. Storms or seasonal changes can leave your formerly well-tende d yard looking like a war zone. Whether there is a ca rpet layer of leaves on the ground, big fallen branches, or any other mess, you may want to hire a professional lawn care company.
At Baxter Lawn and Snow, our lawn cleanup services are not just about restoring your yard’s beauty. They’r e about giving you peace of mind. We understand that letting debris linger not only looks unsightly but can also lead to decay, attracting bugs and other unwelcome visitors. That’s why our experienced team performs thorough lawn analyses and develops tailored plans for each property, ensuring effective leaf removal, deb ris management and haulaway.
SNOW REMOVAL
If snow is starting to build up around your property, Baxter Lawn and Snow is your go-to snow plowing company, offering a comprehensive range of snow cleanup services to ensure your property stays clear and safe during the winter months.
Whether you need a yard salting service, snow shoveling, or parking lot cleaning, we’ve got you covered with our experienced team and top-notch equipment. There’s practically nothing related to snow management that we can’t handle. So, if you’re tired of waking up early to shovel snow before work, give us a call today, and we’ll swiftl y dispatch someone to handle everything for you.
Life is the Berries
Sassy Pants
By Laura Loveberry Elementary School Assembly
Author/Speaker
Inspirational Speaker
Women’s Retreats/Conferences
Caricature Artist
Got
struggles?
Did you know your situation is your assignment to serve? I call it S.A.S. (Situation Assignment to Serve) I wrote about it before. It’s worth repeating. What guts you also grants you opportunities to pull others out of their pit of problems. You and I can serve one another in the midst of our struggles.
What?!
When we allow the Lord to lift us out of our slimy pit, we do not forget the puffy eyes and pouring tears. We don’t waste the ache. We wipe our eyes, finding our purpose for the painful predicament.
My mother-in-law, Virginia, lost her husband four years ago. She did not stay stuck in a rut. She started her Good Grief Group. A cluster of widows meet once every other month to encourage one another over lunch with an influence of positivity. Virginia prepares the meals from scratch. The ladies may share a favorite memory, an embarrassing moment, a Bible verse or a special song. Sometimes, surprise entertainment adds to the moment. The meetings pack with love and the aroma of her home cooked meal. It’s a big group hug. Refreshing.
The widows gather, smiling and laughing.
They miss their lifetime mate. Widowhood remains hard. Virginia offers hope and
heartwarming hospitality to help their journey. Her meetings delight others. It’s her assignment from the Lord to serve.
This ministry stretches Virginia out of her comfort zone for sure. Every meal she cooks stirs up her doubts. Will the girls like her recipe? Will the food flop? And Virginia dreads public speaking. It terrifies. Standing up in front of the widows, her insides quiver, but she plows through. Taking a deep breath, she leads in love.
Fright pokes her nerves into a frenzy before every single meeting. To calm herself down, she prays all month while planning. The grinning faces of her fellow widows etch in her head. She squashes her apprehension. Her battle cry—faith over fear.
We rise by lifting others.
The Good News Bible reads, “He helps us in all our troubles, so that we are able to help others who have all kinds of trouble, using the same help that we ourselves have received from God. Just as we have a share in Christ many sufferings, so also through Christ we share in God’s great help.” (2 Cor 1:4-5 GNB).
Do you and I experience struggles? Yes. Let’s serve our way through it with God’s help. Do it. Be “SASsy Pants.”
Our Situation is our Assignment to Serve.
DMCI:
Cutting-Edge Internet Access
For David Cleveland, providing cutting-edge internet access technology to the community in and around Hillsdale County has been his mission for over 30 years. Dave was the first to bring dial-up internet access to the area in the early ‘90s. Decades later, Dave’s mission to provide fast and reliable internet access to rural areas in and around Hillsdale county is still going strong.
Today, DMCI Broadband (DMCI) is a local internet provider, providing high speed internet access by both wireless broadband delivered from 52 towers across Branch, Hillsdale, and Calhoun counties, along with Fiber Optic internet available in select areas and growing.
David says that internet technology is always evolving.
“The passion has always been the same, it’s just the matter of what delivery method we are using to go about it.”
After a rebrand in 2006 “We started with just a couple of employees and have continued to evolve since then, growing with the wireless broadband internet industry,” he says.
In 2021, DMCI transitioned to the latest internet technology, which is fiber optics. “A few years back, we started seeing the trends of the fiber optics taking hold, so that’s when we started making a transition and acquiring the necessary equipment,” David explains. “Really just getting ourselves into position to start deploying fiber optic internet, in conjunction with our wireless system.”
He says that COVID-19 really accelerated the transition to fiber optics.
“That addition has caused huge growth in our company,” David explains. “We have made massive efforts and invested millions of dollars in equipment to deploy fiber optics into
By Elyse Apel
the community in a matter of two years.” He says that in that time, DMCI has expanded from 16 to 43 full-time employees.
“We are laying down fiber optics that is the technology of the future,” David explains. “We’re right up on the forefront. We are deploying the latest and greatest technologies that are available to the community. Already, we’ve completed over 123 miles of fiber in just the last year. That is over 2,100 homes and businesses that are now outfitted with fiber optic internet.”
David says it’s important to him to keep the business and employees local and plugged into the community. “Our commitment to our customers is to be an internet company that is local, but one they also feel good working with,” he says. “Customer satisfaction is our ultimate goal.” Dave explains that technology is largely customerdriven and that DMCI Broadband is committed to providing what customers want, even when it is difficult.
“We live in Hillsdale County, and it’s a lot of hills and dales,” David explains. “We are always striving to provide the services our customers want in the best way possible.”
Quality customer service will continue to be a top priority, David says. “One of the reasons that we control the whole installation process from beginning to end, is so it’s all DMCI employees doing the work. That way, we control the quality,” he says. “Installing fiber optics is messy, we are going to tear up people’s yards. But it is absolutely instilled in our staff that when we are done, that yard is going to be put back to the way it was, and potentially even better . . . all we do is centered around customer satisfaction.”
DMCI Broadband is committed to not just trying to keep up with the latest technology, but to work to get ahead of it. It plans to continue to lead the charge to bring cutting-edge internet to the community.
dmcibb.net or call (877) 936-2422.
evanehwspmettaehSSevanehwspmetpid• pleHecuderruoyylhtnomytilitustsochtiw H retnusalguoDsedahsyllacfiicepsdengised oedivorpdnuor-raeynoitalusnit • etubirtnoCaeromelbaniatsus tnemnorivngnirewolruoyygreneesue
*
Hillsdale County Veterans Affairs
The Hillsdale County Department of Veterans Affairs has spent many years serving veterans, service members, and their families throughout the county.
Currently, Renae Shircliff serves as the director for the Hillsdale County Department of Veterans Affairs, a role she has held for the last few years. “We just love helping veterans and their families in the county,” Renae says. A veteran herself, Renae took the job after seeing how the services they offer help the community.
“I first got involved after I came in for some counseling from the Veterans Affairs office,” she says. “When I found out they were hiring, I applied.”
The services the Hillsdale County Department of Veterans Affairs offers are available to every veteran in the county. The office assists in exploring and applying for a wide range of Veterans Administration benefits available to veterans, service members, and their families. While each benefit has their own eligibility requirements, the office can assist veterans in filing for all federal, state, and county veteran benefits.
“We just love helping veterans and widows in the county,” Renae says. “We do a lot of compensation claims, health benefits, counseling, transportation, wheelchair ramps, care, and a whole bunch of other things.”
Renae and Dolly Leaders, the deputy director, assist thousands of citizens every year in obtaining the resources they need.
Renae said the impact she sees her work having on the lives of those in the community is what motivates her to remain passionate about her work.
“We can help them make a change,” she says. “We might
By Elyse Apel
have a veteran that is really having a bad time, and we can help them get the benefits that they need.”
There are a whole range of benefits just for veterans with disabilities, including disability benefits, disability compensations, disability pension, and more.
Renae explains that often it is very challenging to navigate the benefits available and how to apply for them, which is why they are there to assist. “Working with the VA giant, it can be very frustrating at times, just because it’s a slow and arduous process,” she says.
There are also many resources available to veterans that are not as well known, like burial benefits and dependent/survivor benefits. This includes educational and training benefits, where Veterans Affairs will pay for eligible veterans, dependents, reservists and service members to attend approved training programs. Other services include Veterans Treatment Court, VA home loans, and healthcare.
Often, eligible veterans, but also military personnel, spouses, and even dependents are also eligible for assistance. For example, through the Care VA Civilian Health and Medical Program, the cost of medical services for eligible dependents and survivors of certain veterans are shared.
Renae said they are grateful for the community’s continued support. “Hillsdale County is a very generous county, and anytime we need assistance with anything, someone is always there to answer the call,” she says.
Volunteers are always welcome, along with certain donations.
Call the Hillsdale County Department of Veterans Affairs at (517) 437-3630 to speak with someone concerning the services that are available, to set up an appointment, or with questions. The Hillsdale County Department of Veterans Affairs is located in downtown Hillsdale at 33 McCullum St., Room 108.
HELPING HANDS PRESCHOOL & CHILDCARE
Before & After school Program
Summer Care (limited availability)
Infant Program
Toddler Program
Preschool Program
Stylish & perfect for group trips. Fully equipped kitchen with washer and dryer. Three bedrooms.
Master suite with jacuzzi tub and stand-up shower. With sliding glass doors that lead to a small deck.
Living /dining space with gas fireplace.
Attached two car garage.
Two bedroom one bathroom downstairs apartment. King bed in the master. Two full beds in second. Den and pull-out couch with computer desk.
Sleeps six to eight. Fully equipped kitchen.
COUNTY OF HILLSDALE VETERANS SERVICES
LOCAL SERVICES FOR VETERANS:
We can assist veterans in filing for all Federal, State and County Veteran’s benefits.
TRANSPORTATION:
Hillsdale County offers transportation to Ann Arbor Monday through Thursday by appointment only and for VA Clinic or hospital only.
WILDLIFE SANCTUARY 3 BEDROOM 2 BATH TOWNHOUSE:
WILDLIFE SANCTUARY 6A:
Entire rental units in Hillsdale, MI
Aim for Luxury
After a day on the range at the John A. Halter Shooting Sports Education Center, Hillsdale College’s world-class facility, indulge yourself with a stay at one of the Halter Center’s cottages. It’s a luxury experience right on site!
Enjoy the amenities and comfort of a spacious cottage while taking advantage of everything that the Halter Center has to offer:
• Sporting clays
• Pistol and rifle
• American and International Skeet and Trap
• Archery
• Range instruction
• AcuSport Grille
• Liberty & Co. Outfitters
Custom packages available. The Halter Center is open year-round!
To book your experience, please visit haltercottages.lodgify.com or call (517) 610-5593.
Americans consume an estimated
We can TOTALLY get behind celebrating the 22 million turkeys
Day on Christmas. They also purchase an estimated 318 million pounds of ham around the holidays. (In term of pounds of edible meat, they’re about equal!)
Festival of Sleep
on January 3! (Unfortunately, in 2025 it’s a weekday.)
If you love cars,
make a trip downtown for the
2025 Detroit Auto Show
The show runs January 10 – 20. Tickets will soon be available online. at Huntington Place (formerly Cobo Hall).
“Year's end is neither an end nor a beginning but a going on, with all the wisdom that experience can instill in us."
— Hal Borland
She accepted and this formalized her career and made her eligible for a pension after 20 years of service.
Sara currently holds the rank of Lt. Colonel and is running the state’s joint operations. She competed for and won a
position commanding the Michigan WMD (weapons of mass destruction) civil support team. This team consists of qualified hazmat technicians who support local, county, state, and federal civilian agencies with resources when the need arises, including agencies like the Secret Service, FBI, Homeland, and local fire and police departments. If it seems a situation could be terrorist-related, they work with the FBI including evidence gathering. The team has also been called in to verify the safety of large event venues like Lions games, car shows, and Faster Horses.
They’ve responded to situations including reports by concerned citizens about possible dangers, unusual items that are turned in at hazmat collections or found in estate sales, and they work with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. Sara says they have a massive mobile lab system that can do spectrum analysis on location. The service is Congressionallyfunded so the cost of their services doesn’t fall on those who need them.
It’s a small, tight team with just 22 members, and that makes it a very unusual command for someone of her rank. “Normally, I’d be commanding a battalion which is about 600 soldiers,” explains Sara. She anticipates being in the position for another 18 to 24 months, after which she will probably compete to enter war college which is like a PhD program for military education and takes about a year to complete.
Sara lives with her husband of 13 years and their six-year-old daughter, who, she says, has made her a better leader and commander. “I learned from being a parent that sometimes you have to step back from a situation, reassess, and approach it from a different angle.”
New job, new retirement account options
Changing
•
•
•
•
We
Don L Toffolo , AAMS™ Financial Advisor
Podcast PICKS
Travel, cooking, and family… for most that is what the holidays are all about! So that is exactly what we had in mind when picking these podcasts. And, of course, with this group of podcast picks we are also bringing you one women-centered podcast to stay inspired!
Design Her Travel
Kim Anderson
Do you feel most alive when exploring new parts of the world? Do you want to travel more, connect with like-minded individuals, and live the life of your dreams? If so, you've come to the right place!
Hosted by global nomad Kim Anderson, Design Her Travel inspires you to live the life of your dreams and incorporate more travel into your daily life. Each week you'll discover travel tips and tales from individuals doing just that. Whether you're dreaming of taking your
first trip or an experienced globetrotter, each week—through guest interviews and solo episodes—you'll hear inspiring stories and discover proven travel methods that will motivate you to take that next step in designing your life. So, get ready and get going! It's time to Design Her Travel!!
Well Integrated Woman Tiffany Wallace
Welcome to Well Integrated Woman, the podcast and community for the woman who is ready to reach her next level in her business, leadership, money, purpose, AND in her life to live out her version of ALL. This is a live, workshop-style podcast that is packed with actionable, step-by-step tips that are helping thousands every week earn more money doing what they LOVE while redefining success and chasing big dreams. Listen in to learn, take action, and do the work to go after your biggest goals, both
Family Goals Podcast
Graham and Shay
Your family can do things differently and the payoffs are worth it! Each week on the Family Goals Podcast, Graham and Shay Cochrane share hope and actionable wisdom around the areas of marriage, family culture, parenting, money, work, and entrepreneurship.
The Splendid Table
The Splendid Table has always connected people through the common language of food and eating. Now, with award-winning food journalist Francis Lam at the helm, we're bringing forward even more fresh voices and surprising conversations at the intersection of food, people, and culture—covering everything from the global appeal of sesame to the impact of Instagram on everyday eating. It's a food show where everyone is welcome.
Cochrane
Francis Lam
Molly O’Shea Interior Designer
Gems & Stones
FROM LOCAL MAKERS
Leopard Skin Jasper Studs
etsy.com item 1480225793
Natural Leopard Skin Jasper stud earrings
Handcrafted copper jewelry made from the finest raw materials that mother nature has to offer. Sustainably harvested and craf ted into fashionable heirloom quality jewelry.
These crystal earrings are made with a natural ston e called Leopard Skin Jasper. Perfect for everyday casual wear. The earri ng posts are made of titanium and come with push on butterfly backs. Tit anium is hypoallergenic and great for people with sensitive ears.
Raw Aquamarine Ring
etsy.com item 1742499457
Gorgeous raw Aquamarine ring! Made with some beautiful raw aquamarine stones and natural copper. The pretty blue color of this stone really pops aga inst the copper and is definitely a show stopper.
Geode Inspired Planter
etsy.com item 1522507863
These geode inspired planters will be the perfect addition to any plant lovers collection. Being handmade, each piece will differ slightly from the next giving you a one of a kind piece of functional art. Perfect in a group but beautiful enough to stand alone, these charming planters are sure to elevate any countertop or windowsill.
Made from cement, glass, and paint, these planters are as durable as they are lovely. Would be perfect as a housewarming or graduation gift.
Made through a process of electroforming with coppe r for 16 hours. The copper is hand aged with a rich vintage patina to pull out some of the details. The copper has been sealed to help preserve the finish.
Key earrings with a pearl gem
etsy.com item 495630655
A pair of key dangle earrings in teal and gold with a pearl type gem
Are fine lines and wrinkles dimming your sparkle? This holiday season, rejuvenate your skin and spirit at Phoenix Rising Wellness Center in beautiful Manitou Beach!
Experience the Magic of Microneedling! Transform your skin with our advanced Microneedling treatments, designed to reduce fine lines and wrink les, leaving you looking refreshed and radiant.
Revitalize with Stem Cell Serums! Boost your skin's natural healing process with our personalized stem cell serums, promoting a youthful looking glow and vitality that lasts.
Illuminate with Infrared Light Therapy! Our soothing infrared light therapy is perfect for relieving pain, enhancing energy, and promoting wellness.
Harmony Through Five Element Acupuncture! Discover the balance your body craves with our Five Element Acupuncture treatments, addressing pain rel ief, PTSD, insomnia, and more, guiding you to a tranquil state of mind.
Gift Wellness This Season!
Looking for the perfect gift? Our gift certificates are the ideal way to share the journey to wellness with you r loved ones. Help them feel and look their best this holid ay season!
Your Journey to Wellness Begins Here! Don't wait----slots are filling up fast! Visit us a t phoenixrisingwellnesscenters.com, and take the firs t step towards a vibrant, healthier you! Call now! 517-759-4018
Our Staff Recipes from
This issue our staff pulled out their favorite recipes for the holiday seasons to share with our readers. Some are family recipes passed down for generations made year after year. During the holidays we are all thankful to be able to spend time in the kitchen and share our recipes. Enjoy!
Soft Sugar Cookies
INGREDIENTS
1 c. shortening
2 c. white sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
½ teaspoon nutmeg
2 eggs, plus enough milk to make 1 cup
1 teaspoon baking soda, dissolved in ½ cup milk
6 c. flour, sifted 2 teaspoons baking powder
4.
DIRECTIONS Blend shortening, salt, sugar, vanilla, and nutmeg. 1. Add liquids to mixture, stir well. 2. Sift flour with baking powder - add to mixture. 3. Roll out dough, cut with cutter, sprinkle tops with sugar. Bake at 350° on an ungreased cookie sheet for 10-12 minutes. Do not bake till brown.
Cyndi Young
Molasses Cookies
INGREDIENTS
¾ c. shortening
1 c. sugar
¼ c. blackstrap molasses
1 egg
2 t. baking soda
1 c. all-purpose flour
1 c. whole wheat flour
½ t. ground cloves
½ t. ginger
½ t. salt
1 t. cinnamon
Extra sugar
Peanut Butter Ritz Cookies
INGREDIENTS
100 round buttery salted crackers such as Ritz
1½ c. creamy peanut butter
24 ounces chocolate almond bark
DIRECTIONS
5.
DIRECTIONS Place about one-half to one tablespoon of peanut butter on a cracker and spread out depending on the ratio of peanut butter to cracker and chocolate you desire. 1. Top with another cracker. Repeat process until all crackers are gone. 2. Melt almond bark in a double boiler until all lumps are out. If you don’t have a double boiler, you can do this in the microwave, making sure to stir frequently so it doesn’t scorch. It just doesn’t harden up while you’re working with it if you use the double boiler. 3. Drop a sandwich cookie into the chocolate. Make sure it’s covered, then remove with a fork. Drag fork along the edge of the double boiler to scrape of excess almond bark. Place cookie on wax paper. Repeat until all cookies have been dipped. 4. Place in container and store in an airtight container. These also freeze great! Place wax paper between the layers of cookies. 5.
Melt shortening. Beat in sugar, molasses, and egg.
1. Mix in dry ingredients until well combined.
2. Preheat oven to 375°. Chill dough in refrigerator while oven is heating.
3. Once oven is heated, roll dough into one-inch balls and then roll in sugar, coating well. Arrange on cookie sheets.
4. Bake until the cookies flatten.
Dakota Harding
Kristal Johnson
Cocktail Pizza
INGREDIENTS
1 loaf party rye bread
1 pkg. regular sausage
1 pkg. hot/spicy sausage
½ - ¾ pound Velveeta cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon fennel seed
1 teaspoon oregano
DIRECTIONS Cook sausages and drain. 1. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low until cheese is melted. 2. Spread on rye bread and bake at 400° for 15 minutes. 3. Can be made ahead and frozen. 4.
Sherry Sheffer
Sweet Potato
INGREDIENTS
CRUST
½ cup brown sugar
⅓ cup flour
½ - ¾ cup chopped nuts (pecans preferred)
4 tablespoons butter (softened)
SWEET POTATO MIXTURE
3 cups mashed sweet potatoes (can use canned to save time, just drain)
½ cup sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 eggs (well beaten)
4 tablespoons butter (softened)
INGREDIENTS
FreshOrangeCranberry Relish
12 oz. bag of cranberries 1 medium orange, ends removed 1 tart apple, cut in 8 wedges and cored ¾ - 1 c. sugar or sweetening equivalent of Splenda, monk fruit, etc.
DIRECTIONS
2.
Casserole
3.
DIRECTIONS
Combine brown sugar, flour, nuts and butter in mixing bowl. Set aside. 1. Preheat oven to 350° 2. Combine sweet potatoes, sugar, salt, vanilla, eggs and butter in a mixing bowl in the order listed. Mix thoroughly. 3. Pour mixture into a buttered baking dish. 4. Sprinkle the surface of the sweet potato mixture evenly with the crust mixture. 5. Bake for 30 minutes. Allow to sit at least 30 minutes before serving. 6.
Hint: Double the recipe. People will love the leftovers which also freeze nicely.
Marlanea McGraw
Slice the unpeeled orange into eighths and remove any seeds.
1. Put half of the cranberries, half the orange, and half the apple in a food processor. Pulse until evenly chopped. Transfer to a bowl. Repeat with remaining fruit.
Stir in the sweetener to taste and store in the refrigerator to chill through and so flavors can blend.
