AUGUST 2025
SPONSORED BY
PRENTI
Why Non Toxic? |||
As a wife and mother, I started making Prenti candles as a way to enjoy everything a candle has to offer without worry.
And like most moms, when I didn’t like what I was finding, I took matters into my own hands and figured out what wax(s) were good and which ones were not so good.
Along with fragrances, I came up with my own recipe to making a candle that we all could feel good about lighting in our home.
NEW BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Soulful Bloom
Soulful Bloom – Nature’s Touch for Everyday Wellness
In Reese, two women are redefining self-care with a return to nature.
Meet Soulful Bloom, a handcrafted skin and health care brand co-founded by Kristine Stockmeyer and Marla Lefler.
Their mission is simple yet powerful: honor the body, respect the earth, & empower through purity and sisterhood.
What began as a personal search for toxin-free products evolved into a full line of balms, butters, and serums made with thoughtfully sourced, all-natural ingredients. Each formula is rooted in tallow, botanicals, and essential oils—designed to nourish without compromise.
A Few Favorites
Buzz Off Tallow: A natural insect-repelling balm perfect for Michigan summers.
Gigi’s Bum Butter: A gentle diaper rash balm trusted by moms.
Nature’s Radiance Face Serum: A light, restorative blend for everyday glow.
“Everything we create is something we’d use on our own families,” Kristine and Marla share. “That’s where our standard of purity begins.”
Shop Soulful Bloom
Though still in their early days, Soulful Bloom already ships nationwide through their online store, shopsoulfulbloom.com, and actively shares updates on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Whether you’re looking to simplify your skincare or gift something meaningful, Soulful Bloom offers a chance to indulge in nature’s best—while supporting local women who pour their hearts into every jar.
📍 Reese, Michigan
📧 [email protected]
🌐 shopsoulfulbloom.com
TEACHER OF THE MONTH
Corey Rosser
Alternative Education Teacher, Quest High School (North Branch Area Public Schools) 2025–26 Michigan Teacher of the Year
This month, we proudly celebrate Corey Rosser, named 2025–26 Michigan Teacher of the Year. For 22 years, Corey has dedicated his career to Quest High School in North Branch, serving students in grades 10–12 with unwavering passion and purpose.
As an alternative education teacher, Corey understands that every student’s path looks different.
He teaches Social Studies and Imagine Learning courses, helping young people rediscover their potential and chart new directions for their future. His work extends far beyond the classroom walls—supporting summer school programs for more than two decades and guiding virtual learners across both traditional and alternative settings for the last eight years.
Corey’s impact reaches beyond his school, too. As an active member of the Michigan Alternative Education Organization, he continues to advocate for innovative practices that give every student—especially those who don’t thrive in traditional environments—a chance to succeed.
When asked about his philosophy, Corey reflects on the importance of meeting students where they are:
“Alternative education is about believing in students others may have given up on—and showing them they have what it takes to succeed.”
Congratulations, Corey, and thank you for reminding Mid-Michigan what dedicated, student-centered teaching looks like.
GOOD NEWS
Matthew 28:19-20, NIV
19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
Known as the Great Commission—are not just marching orders for the early church; they’re a promise for every believer today. Jesus calls us to share the Good News everywhere we go, but He also assures us we’ll never do it alone.
Wherever life takes you—into workplaces, schools, neighborhoods, or even other nations—this promise stands: Christ is with you always.
His very presence empowers us to speak, serve, and love boldly, knowing that He remains faithful to the very end of the age.