Husband and wife, best friends and life partners — also known as “Lolli and Pop” to their beloved grandchildren — Eric and Wendi King celebrated a milestone on September 3, 2025: the official grand opening of Poppa’s Cookbook.

The ribbon-cutting, led by Mayor Andy Schor, was more than a business launch. Falling on the birthday of Dr. Val King, Eric’s late mother, the moment became one layered with family, faith, and legacy.

From noon until close, Greater Lansing poured in to support the Kings. The result? Every dish sold out, every table filled, and every heart in the room overflowing.

Nominations Encouraged for Michigan

Lottery’s Excellence in Education Awards to Honor Outstanding Educators

Parents, students, school staff members,and others are encouraged to nominate outstanding public-school educators for the Michigan Lottery’s 2025-26 Excellence In Education awards.

All public-school employees may be nominated for the Excellence In Education awards, which recognize educators who go “above and beyond” to make a difference in the lives of children.

To nominate a public- school educator, go to https://www.michiganlottery.com/excellence-in-education.

“The Excellence in Education awards are our way of honoring the phenomenal work

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For muralist and studio owner Jamari Taylor, art has always been more than paint on a wall or lines on a canvas; it has been a pathway to freedom, healing, and connection. Her journey began in the 11th grade when she first picked up a brush in art class. “I felt like I was in heaven,” she recalls. That feeling of liberation set her on a path of creative exploration, leading her to embrace artistry as not only a career but also a calling.

Today, Jamari stands as the proud founder of Jaylei Art, with studios in Battle Creek and Grand Rapids, where she has created vibrant, welcoming spaces that blend creativity with community care. The name Jaylei is itself a reflection of identity — a combination of her given name and childhood nickname, symbolizing her personal journey and the inclusive spirit of her work.

George Foreman, an iconic figure in the world of boxing, is remembered not only for his athletic dominance but for his extraordinary journey of transformation, redemption, and impact. Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, Foreman’s life story is a profound testament to perseverance and purpose—making him a towering figure in Black history and beyond.

Early Life and Challenges

Raised in a low-income neighborhood, Foreman faced the harsh realities of poverty and racial inequality early on. As a troubled youth, he often found himself in difficult circumstances. But everything began to change when he joined the Job Corps, where he trained under professional boxing