BROWSING:  Columns

After a long, sweltering summer, the crisp promise of fall feels like a welcome reprieve. Cooler evenings, golden leaves, an abundant harvest of delicious foods — and of course, a fresh start for your wardrobe. As we celebrate the dedication of first responders in this issue, it’s only fitting to take a page from their book and get prepared — this time, for the stylish season ahead.

I never really understood what people meant by having an “out-of-body experience” — until one winter day in early 2022.

There’s something undeniably special about September in mid-Michigan. As summer fades into fall, the region transforms into a vibrant tapestry of color, culture, and crisp autumn air. The sweltering heat of July and August gives way to comfortably cool temperatures, making it one of the most enjoyable times of the year to explore everything the area has to offer. From outdoor festivals and fall colors to harvest-season activities and high school football, September is a month that perfectly blends relaxation and excitement.

Imagine going to your job each day not knowing what challenges and tasks await you. Then, coming back to work the next day will likely be totally different for you.

Have you ever typed a deeply personal question into Google? Questions like:

“O afflicted one, storm-tossed and not comforted.”

With the goal of reducing America’s trade deficit, President Trump increased tariffs to rates not seen since prior to World War II. This was the stated goal behind his April 2nd “Liberation Day” when he announced these tariffs. However, economic theory suggests that tariffs will be ineffective in reducing the trade deficit.

Perched high above the Amalfi Coast, Ravello is a hilltop jewel – without a beach, a little harder to reach than its seaside neighbors, and long adored by golden-age movie stars who knew how to escape the crowds.

On the Amalfi Coast, there’s a small town called Minori. It’s the kind of place that’s easy to miss – a blink-and-you’re-past-it sort of town. And our stay there was completely accidental.

As summer wanes and Michigan prepares to embrace the crisp, colorful days of fall, it’s the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe with styles that bridge the sunny days of August and September and the cozy, layered looks ahead. The end of summer is a season of transition – an opportunity to incorporate breezy, relaxed pieces while preparing for the cooler months filled with football games, back-to-school excitement, and the stunning hues of autumn leaves.

The “Big, Beautiful Bill” that recently passed the House, Senate, and was signed into law by President Trump temporarily increases the deduction on Social Security income so that upwards of 90% of seniors will pay no income tax on Social Security benefits. This deduction is scheduled to expire in 2028 and benefits middle- and upper-income seniors the most as lower income seniors already do not pay federal income tax.

As families start their back-to-school shopping, it’s time to think about what healthy snacks, drinks and lunches you plan to send to school with your child.