Life + Culture

Nurturing a Love of Learning

Michigan's Teacher of the Year shares how education came first Article by Amy Salvagno | Photography by Kevin Shea Summers in Mount Clemens for Candice Jackson meant frequent walks to Miller Brothers Creamery for her favorite scoop of ice cream. And bike rides with friends to the beach to splash in the waters of Lake St. Clair. And playground fun during day camp with the Parks and Recreation department. And filing and sorting as a page at the city library, where in a full-circle moment, she...

April 2024

Food + Beverage

Elevated Cocktails for Brunch and Beyond

3 Fun Spirits To Spoil Mom With This Mother's Day Article and Photography by Amy Salvagno Whether Mom prefers to dine reclining pillow-side in pajamas or beside a beautifully dressed table, she’ll appreciate an elegant, elevated cocktail to make her brunch menu extra special. So while she’s indulging in a few extra pieces of bacon, savoring bites of flaky quiche and luxuriating over berry and whipped cream-topped pancakes, impress her with one of these three morning-friendly mixes.   Gin &...

April 2024

Life + Culture

City of Roses

Mount Clemens' rose-growing industry left a legacy on the nation, a president and generations Article by Amy Salvagno Long-stemmed and graceful. Eye-catching and fragrant. Unique, like the recipients who sigh at the sight of a bouquet full of them – new mothers and treasured teachers, longtime sweethearts and blushing brides, thoughtful neighbors, and tenderhearted grandmothers.  For a time, the city was known by them – dubbed the Rose Capital of the nation – and for good reason. Over 80...

April 2024

Education

From Obstacles to Inspiration

A St. Mary & Regina alumna’s testimony on how Catholic education still empowers her today Article by Amy Salvagno | Photography by Jacob Sciacchitano Against her most challenging battles, Regina High School alumna Kaitlyn Bemiss armed herself with faith, community and an empowering education. She accredits her Catholic education to helping overcome obstacles and providing the opportunity to support students navigating the same troubles today.  As District Nurse for L'Anse Creuse Public...

April 2024

Food + Beverage

Lucious Rhubarb Curd

Enjoy this delicious spring and summer treat on bread or atop pancakes, yogurt and ice cream Article and Photography by Amy Salvagno Ingredients: 3 cups thinly sliced red rhubarb 1 tablespoon water  ½ cup sugar  2 eggs Pinch of salt  ¼ cup butter ½ tsp vanilla extract  Directions:  Heat rhubarb in a saucepan with water. Stir often until rhubarb starts releasing its own water and can cook in its own juices. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover...

April 2024

Life + Culture

Family Time is the Best Investment

These simple, yet intentional ideas can make the best memories Article by Amy Salvagno Eat dinner together as a family.  This meaningful time around the table is where connections happen. Let everyone share good moments from the day or something they struggled with. Create a jar of conversation starters, exchange giggles and cook up something delicious. Create family traditions Build weekly or monthly traditions – movie nights with popcorn, board game marathons, a gratitude jar, evening...

March 2024

Food + Beverage

Carrot Cake Bars

Gather your family together to bake these cheesecake-swirled dessert bars, perfect for spring Article and Photography by Amy Salvagno Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter, melted 1 cup light brown sugar 1 egg 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon  1/4 teaspoon baking powder  1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup shredded carrots Directions:  Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat an 8×8 baking pan with non-stick spray or line with parchment paper and lightly...

March 2024

Finance + Legal Services

Find Your Financial Footprint in One Place

First State Bank's game-changing app helps users budget better, save more and achieve their goals Article by Amy Salvagno | Photography by Kevin Shea It wasn’t luck or the lottery that enabled Drew Sheridan to pay off his car four years early. He has a simple mobile app to thank for that.  For the last year, Drew has utilized GreenWI$E, a tool powered by First State Bank that allows users to collect and view their financial accounts all on one screen.  “It does all the hard work for you,”...

March 2024

Health + Wellness

Confidence is a Stunning Smile

At PGS Dentistry, make the worthwhile investment in your teeth with a cutting-edge clear aligner Article by Amy Salvagno | Photography by Kevin Shea A beautiful smile is more than a worthwhile investment – it’s a lifetime of confidence. That’s why Dr. Patrick Sweeney, DDS, and his team at PGS Dentistry in Harrison Township, are passionate about introducing patients to the best options for a sensational smile.   “Having a nice smile leads to more confidence, which impacts day-to-day life...

March 2024

Finance + Legal Services

The American Dream

First Financial Coaching's experiential approach for living and leaving a legacy Article by Amy Salvagno The American Dream is alive and well. But it isn’t defined by status or material possession or even a number in a bank account.  “For us, it’s dwelling in a world where you’re driven by your purpose and you’re able to create experiences with your family, pursue a job you want and live in freedom, fulfillment and love and have that now rather than one day when you can afford it,” says...

March 2024