BROWSING:  Special Section

Looking for unique holiday gifts? Love supporting local shops and Michigan-made products? Here’s a mit-full of ideas – pretty things, yummy things, practical things … all created in “the land shaped like a hand!”

Imagine curling up with a book that’s so good, you’ll forget the holiday chaos outside! This Holiday Reading List has something for everyone: a psychological thriller that keeps you guessing until the last page; a spicy romance to warm up those frosty nights; kids’ books filled with enchanting illustrations to capture young imaginations; true crime that dives deeply into the twists and turns of our justice system, and a nostalgic tale that wraps around you like a cozy blanket. Take a look!

From playful pups to cuddly cats and even a beautiful bearded dragon, these beloved pets captured our hearts.

Located in Fenton Township at the corner of Fenton and Thompson Rds., Ruffy Ranch Retreat is a new doggy daycare, boarding and grooming facility that provides plentiful pampering for your precious “canine kids.” The state-of-the-art business opened in July and, according to owner Allore Sharp, is already at 60 percent capacity. “We have had wonderful community response!” she exclaims.

The holiday spirit is everywhere – and as you navigate through stores filled with seasonal goodies, you might find yourself pondering, “Do I need candy bars, a turkey roaster or some string lights?”

In May 2012, the Humane Society of Genesee County (HSGC) opened the doors to a transformative addition in their facility – the Mr. and Mrs. Bernhard Stroh Wing, home to their spay/neuter clinic. This clinic was the realization of a mission-driven goal to address the pressing issue of animal overpopulation, ensuring every dog and cat adopted from HSGC is spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and tested for heartworm or feline leukemia.

The phrase evokes memories of simpler times when life moved at a slower pace and every moment seemed to carry a bit of magic. Whether it’s the smell of fresh bread baking in the kitchen, the sound of laughter from front porch conversations, or the joy of fall days spent outdoors, we all reminisce about the times when the world and everyday life were shaped by traditions, relationships and small-town charm. This collection of anecdotes captures some of those cherished moments, offering a heartfelt journey back to the days when life’s greatest joys were often found in the little things.

In the spring of 2024, Kettering University hosted a remarkable seminar series on AI and Applications, drawing attention to the cutting-edge work being done by its esteemed faculty. The series was spearheaded by four key presenters, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table.

Designed for young art students entering grades 9-11, this unique initiative offers personalized guidance from working artists, providing resources and opportunities beyond those typically available in K-12 educational institutions.

Since January 2022, the Genesee Career Institute (GCI) has been offering adults free, hands-on training that leads to well-paying jobs in high-demand career fields. The program is designed for those who are at least 18 years old and currently enrolled and actively participating in a Michigan Region 6 Adult Education Program.

Genesee District Library (GDL) has a whole world of education and entertainment, and it’s all free with your library card: eBooks, audio books, movies, music, magazines, TV series, comics and graphic novels are available digitally, in the comfort of your home. With a library card, there’s a wealth of free entertainment and resources available to you. You can also stop by one of the 19 branches and check out DVDs, video games, CDs, large-type books, magazines, games, toys and books.